I was in Fort Gordon, Ga for basic training in early 1964.

We had an inspection which included a full field layout on our bunks. When the inspecting officer asked to see my mess kit, I handed it to him. He then asked if I would eat out of it. I answered, "Yes Sir",(because I spent about 1 hour cleaning and shining it.)

He replied that he would not and told me to look at the kit. He proceeded to point out the corners and said that grease builds up there and can give you the(dreaded)GI's. He then asked if I would eat out of it now and I replied, "NO Si". He asked me why not and I answered him, "because you put your fingers in it."

His mouth dropped open for a second and then he said OK and moved on. My Platoon Sergeant, Sergeant Farmer, had a grin on his face. Our 1st Sergeant was smiling ear to ear and our Commanding Officer (fresh out of school) had a look of horror.

Meanwhile the trainee across from me was holding onto the upper support and covering his mouth so no one could hear him laughing.

Joseph Kady, Springfield, PA