Ramblings of an old man. It was Spring 1967. I was graduating HS and wondering what the next step would be. I had spent 2 years in an Army R.O.T.C. program. The Evening News with Cronkite and Huntley was full of raw video right from the front lines of Vietnam. We were full of Patriotism and Vietnam seemed like our Call to Duty. Many of my Classmates went right into The Marines or Army. It was still a time that required signing up for the Draft for every 18 year old male. I anxiously awaited my card and classification. When I got it I was deferred due to medical issues (heart related). I felt Blessed, but also cheated. I was strong, thin and in good shape. I did not accept that this health issue would be a problem. I did any physical activities I desired. I eventually accepted that military life would not be in my future. I learned a skill and served an apprenticeship. I married and 4 years later started a family. I always felt guilt that I had not paid my debt and Served my Nation. Many of my Classmates did not survive their War experience. This added to my guilt. Others paid the price so I could stay home and enjoy my family life. I slogged on for 24 years. The guilt never entirely left. In the course of life many opportunities arise to complete applications for all sorts of things where the question always seem to appear, Veteran? it would ask. The guilt would surface once again. At 42 years old I relocated and left Texas to settle in Idaho. I felt a strong desire to still serve my community and make up for the debt that hung over me from Vietnam. I trained and received an EMT certification. I volunteered on the local ambulance crew. I saw an opening one day where the local Sheriff Office needed a few good men. I applied, was hired and at 42 years old attended the Idaho Peace Officers Standard and Training Academy. P.O.S.T. I was the second oldest in the class of 42 cadets. Most were 22 to 28 years old. I by the Grace of God managed to keep up and Graduated Vice President of Class 105. I then served 13 years with Idaho County Sheriff Office as a Patrol Officer. Most Citizens never would believe what that requires. Now retired I wish I had found the opportunity sooner when I was younger. I loved serving the community and wearing the uniform. What I gained from the experience is I now have Peace that I paid that debt of service from 1967 off. I am proud to pass the torch off to the younger generation and let them experience that feeling of making a contribution.
Posted on: Mon, 22 Sep 2014 02:56:17 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015