I was drafted in August 1969. Drill sergeants called a special meeting and wanted everyone to fall out. Something didn't seem right because they were acting like our buddies. The one drill sergeant said that someone turned him in for being abusive. I started laughing because I couldn't believe anyone would do that and my Father was a lot rougher on me than he was. The drill sergeants turned on me asked what was so funny. Without thinking I told him he was a p---- compared to my Dad. The entire platoon gasped and stepped back. The drill sergeant asked me what I said, as 2 drill sergeants stepped in close. I knew I messed up but I didn't want to show fear and repeated what I said. They looked at each other then asked if anybody else had anything to say, there was dead silence. To my surprise he said the meeting was over. Nothing was ever said about it again.

Paul Schuler, Fort Calhoun, Neb.