I was on holdover status working as a clerk at the Goodfellow Air Force Base motor pool until my security clearance came through. I needed it before I could begin my training as an Army Security Agency voice intercept operator.
I was not excited about being in the Army. Nevertheless, I chose to join rather than complying with my draft notice, which would have meant no college graduation and no marriage.
The orders I received following basic training warned me not to bring my new wife because “…it could prove to be a financial embarrassment.” We ignored that and bravely went together to Texas. Now Susan and I were struggling together to meet this challenge. She was on the San Angelo school district’s sub list; I was a PVT E2 making $115 a month plus $60 housing allowance.
Unexpectedly my name appeared on the bulletin board roster to stand retreat. I was to have my shoes shined, my khakis pressed and appear for inspection at 1630 hours.
During the duty day that Wednesday, HQ called the vehicle registration office and asked for Pvt. Cropper. I was surprised and wondered why they would want to see me.
At HQ, Specialist 6 Weldon ushered me to the CO office. He told me to report with a salute when I went in to see the commander.
I entered the captain’s office, saluted and reported like I’d been instructed in basic: “Sir, Pvt. Cropper reporting as ordered.” He returned my salute and then said, “Congratulations” and handed me some PFC stripes across the desk. I was dumbfounded. I hadn’t expected a promotion. I was in such a daze I forgot to salute when I offered my thanks, did an about-face and left his office.
It was a bright, clear day that Dec. 10, 1969. As I stood on the tarmac watching the flag snapping in the wind with my fellow soldiers, I felt it had never before looked so beautiful. After a short wait, we were called from parade rest to the position of attention. As the flag was lowered, we were ordered to present arms. Saluting Old Glory brought with it an unexpected flush of patriotism. Undoubtedly my freshly acquired PFC stripes, the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" and my military surroundings added to these feelings. My new rank had helped make the ceremony more meaningful and had increased my desire to serve my country.