Being the old guy now it's possible to look back over my life and see what was important and what wasn't. Forty years ago I had no plans to join the military. I was drafted. Plain and simple I got my notice to report and I did. I did have other plans. I was getting married. I had a good job. I had my life in front of me yet it made a sharp detour for several years.
Vietnam was going on hot and heavy. Tet had just happened shortly before I was in basic training. During the night guys were heading out the back door of the barracks and a few hours later they were in Canada. I did what I knew was right. I am not the warrior type, but stuck it out. Looking back, it was the best things I could have ever done. Sticking in there when things are tough is a rock you can build the rest of your life upon. Though most of my hard training was for Vietnam, the orders never came; I was sent to Korea instead.
The Army had polished off those youthful rough edges and when my service was over I had a different perspective on life. When I came home most of my friends were still there, but a few were gone. Some went to Vietnam and never came home. Now I honor their memory. With the passing of years I understand completely the expression one often hears: "Freedom is not Free"
Today I have the deepest respect for those that choose to serve their country in the armed forces. God bless this great country of ours and especially those who protect it!
Being the old guy now it's possible to look back over my life and see what was important and what wasn't. Forty years ago I had no plans to join the military. I was drafted. Plain and simple I got my notice to report and I did. I did have other plans. I was getting married. I had a good job. I had my life in front of me yet it made a sharp detour for several years.
