A series of events came about when I was supposed to be discharged on Dec. 28. The old GI Bill had expired, and the new one was supposed to start in early January 1965. I was in an open status. A huge storm raged in the Atlantic; the prop actually came out of the water. I was caged up a few feet from the propeller shaft. After landing, I had to battle a snowstorm from New York to North Dakota. My VW Beetle froze up in Minnesota. I rode the train west to my hometown. I walked the last two blocks home in 20-degree-below-freezing weather. But time on board pushed my discharge into January 1965; Congress backdated the bill, therefore I was qualified.
I earned a master's degree, and got a good job in computer sales and management. The Army experience provided a good basis for working in a large and complex industry. My next step was to buy a home, with the help of VA. My medical needs are provided by VA; I am sure some of my funeral expenses will be covered by the Legion.
In summary, the Army does not owe me a thing, but I owe the military.