Worse Experience:
1966, boot camp at Fort Bragg, N.C., Day 1

All in platoon formation, I was 18 years old and scared to death of this new experience. The drill instructor was calling out in categories of plumber, electrician, carpenter and so on for professional workers in and around the barracks and company area. I heard him call out for any barbers in the formation. Two others and I raised our hands and were told to fall out to the front. I was first, and he asked how long I had been a barber. Being a dumb and scared little Southern boy, I answered, "All my life, drill sergeant."

I spent my first two weeks doing kitchen police duty. I was just being honest, although stupid, since my last name is Barber.

Best experience:
I was married in March and drafted in July of 1966. After six weeks of basic training, I was given post leave for one night and my wife came to pick me up for an overnight stay in Fayetteville.