Oct. 20, 1960 to December 1960
Lackland Air Force Base, Texas

My worst memory was our 2-mile run. During the first run, 1 mile, I was on barracks guard and missed it. Thought I missed it for good, but a few days later we went on our second run and I assumed it would be another 1 mile. I managed to finish at the middle of pack, then the drill instructor said, "One more mile!"

I have no idea how I made it. I finished so far behind the pack they were all on break and waiting for me. If you saw "Full Metal Jacket," I was like Pvt. Pyle, but 10 times worse.

My best memory was getting my orders to go to Still Photographer School at Lowry Air Force Base, Colo. Then, to my real surprise, I was designated "airman in charge" of the train from Lackland to Lowry. Many schools were operating at Lowry at that time, and there were three train cars carrying airmen to school. I had to select two assistants and was responsible for all airmen's hand-carried records, as well as their conduct on the train. It was my first taste of responsibility and leadership while being an 18-year-old "airman basic."