In October 1969 I decided I would finish that semester, then drop out of college and bartender for awhile. I wanted to take a break. I was skinny, had flat feet and thought I would never qualify for service.

The night of the lottery everyone was watching. My number was 78. The Marines called and asked me to come by because I was about to be drafted. But I joined the Army and went to Vietnam as a security policeman. Most of me came back…some parts of me will always be in Nam. And I went forth with my life.

I don’t fault those that escaped legitimately,  but can’t deal with those that received amnesty…someone had to go in their place.