(My theme is places I have visited or lived)
Jacksonville, NC
I graduated from Marine Corps Boot camp January 19, 1973 in San Diego, CA. I was then sent to the Army Chemical Warfare School in Anniston, AL. I graduated as an NBC (Nuclear Biological & Chemical) Warfare Specialist (5711) in March of 1973. After a time of military leave I was assigned to HMM 261 (Helicopter) Squadron stationed at the New River Air Station in Jacksonville, NC.
I arrived in J-Ville around midnight and was picked up at the airport by the duty driver and driven to a receiving barracks. The next morning I checked into the S-1 (Administration) office in order to process into my new unit.
I was just 60 some days past my 18th birthday. I was almost two people - one person in me was scared to death. All alone in a strange state, 3,000 miles from friends and family joining a Squadron which had distinquished itself in Viet Nam. The other person in me was as excited as a 10 year old boy on Christmas Day.
I got checked into HMM 261 with no problems and began my life as an NBC NCO and S-3 Flight Operations Clerk. 
4 comments:
What lovely memories you have of Jacksonville NC, Getting married there.
Most enjoyable to read as always.
Yvonne.
Jacksonville was usually part of our yearly show tour. We played a lot of NC towns which makes sense because our company was based in Charlotte, NC.
Your military experience is something I never shared, but I admire those who have done it. I can imagine what an adjustment it must have been for you. With all that training at your young age you had a good start on life. At that same age I was still acting like a little kid in a lot of ways.
Arlee Bird
A to Z Challenge Co-host
Tossing It Out
fantastic post
Great story Gregg! Five years before you landed in NC I was in boot camp in SC where I was taking a day course in using gas masks and the like.
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