During the scene where Willard and his crew search the natives' boat, they end up shooting and killing all the passengers because they believe they are harboring weapons or explosives. when in reality, the only item they were “hiding” was a puppy. If the crew had only taken a few moments before shooting to ensure there were no hazardous materials on board, instead of killing them because they were thought to be dangerous, then innocent people would not would not have died. The crew fires their weapons simply because it's easier than the alternative. Because the crew failed to control themselves and their actions, innocent native people died. Instead of trying to help these natives, the crew members exterminate them, and instead of paying attention to this strange land, the crew members wander around and act like they own it. “Civilized” Americans are supposed to be the ones who exercise restraint, and they should be very cautious around a foreign country, but because of their inflated egos, they view themselves as foreign countries.