To me basic training was a breeze. I had grown up on a poor dairy farm in Michigan. We did every thing the old fashioned, hard way. beginning at 5 am and not really finishing till about 7-8 pm. 7 days a week, rain, snow, or shine. Plus, I had already had three brothers who completed their tours in the Marines, and one Army.

I remember my platoon sergeant asking me if I wanted a three day pass. I didn't take it. But I was the first on offered. The others had to ask.

Bivouac was also a breeze. My family had gotten me a battery operated razor. While the troops shaved with cold water out in the cold, I laid in my sleeping bag shaving.

I did a total of three years, and had made SP-5. One tour in Korea.

I did very well in the Army.

Jim Filhart,
Cartersville, Ga.
previously Ortonville, Michigan.