Havermeyer was a lead bombardier who never missed. Yossarian was a lead bombardier who had been demoted because he no longer gave a damn whether he missed or not. He had decided to live forever or die in the attempt, and his only mission each time he went up was to come down alive.
Havermeyer is portrayed as a skilled bombardier, exemplifying precision and dedication in his role, as he consistently hits his targets. His unwavering commitment to his responsibilities contrasts sharply with Yossarian, another lead bombardier who has lost his motivation due to the horrors of war. Yossarian, who once shared the same focus, is now indifferent to his mission's success, emphasizing his desire to survive above all else.
This shift in Yossarian reflects a profound change in attitude brought about by the traumatic experiences he has faced. He is now determined to either find a way to live indefinitely or die in the effort, prioritizing his own survival over military duty. The stark difference between him and Havermeyer highlights the varying responses soldiers have to the chaos and danger of war, illuminating themes of survival and existential struggle in "Catch-22."
