In this exchange from "Catch-22," Yossarian is confronted with a harrowing reality when he questions the consequences of refusing a military order. His apprehension highlights his awareness of the life-threatening risks soldiers face, making him acutely aware of the gravity of their situation. The mention of being shot as a consequence reveals the brutal nature of war and the pressure on soldiers to comply.

Ex-P.F.C. Wintergreen's response indicates a shift in his loyalties, suggesting that in dire situations, survival trumps allegiance. His pragmatic viewpoint underscores the absurdity of war, where individuals must navigate moral dilemmas and the harsh expectations placed on them. This dialogue encapsulates the themes of conflict, loyalty, and the struggle for self-preservation in Heller's narrative.