It was late in 1966 when I was drafted to serve. Got sent to Fort Ord Ca.

I was a young kid and basic training was really an experience for me. The physical training made me stronger.

It was just after the "obstacle course" that we all had lunch in the field and were then ordered to "Line up and dress right dress". I and everyone else stood at attention! Then a young Lieutenant was "reviewing the troops".
Going down the line stopping and turning at each of us inspecting our uniforms.

The Lieutenant came to me,turned and looked me up and down. Then said "Private, your button is unbuttoned". I was scared and looked directly ahead. The officer then reached into his pocket, pulled our his pen knife and cut off my left breast pocket's button.

As I stood at attention he reached out and gave me my button (to be sewn on at another time) I accepted the button then addressed the Lieutenant "Sir, your button is unbuttoned". I had noticed that his pocket was unbuttoned. I held out my hand and the officer gave me his knife and I cut his button off (left breast button) and gave him back his button and pocket knife.

I never felt better than that experience in basic Training. After that I made sure "my buttons were buttoned" and I think the lieutenant did also!

I wonder if he made it back? And if he remembered to inspect himself before reviewing the troops again?

Sp-4 Maurice Keehan
US 56702122