MY DRAFTING EXP.
Graduated 1964-
My whole life lies ahead of me. Great expectation's. I'm a member of a volunteer
Fire company. Just got a job with a great company. I have a chance to move
up the ladder of success.
October 1965- letter to go for a physical? They are drafting young men. First
time to Philadelphia by myself. Passed! Now I'm one of Americas best! I asked
if we get drafted how soon? Officer says we won't be home for Christmas!
Nov. 3rd- Envelope in the mail, No postage just Selective service. I open,
Report Nov 16, 1965, comes to eye right away! I guess I won't be home for
thanksgiving either?
Great letter. I look at it. (still have it) reads
The president of the United States
To James A. Gilbert
What president! Doesn't he have a name???
And this being the United States of America I had a choice!
Small print all the way at the bottom it says "willful failure to report
at the place and hour of the day named in this order subjects the violator
to fine and imprisonment. Bring this order with you when you report." some
of the latter draftees had a third choice "CANADA"
I chose the first option and all joking aside I am glad (wouldn't do it again)
the experience has helped me learn more about my self. I also believe God
had a hand in this, as you will see latter in my life.
Well that's the last time someone will call me James, Gilbert is my official
name now, along with some other names I never heard of before?!
6:30am Norristown Pa. Bus trip to Phlia. train to someplace south? Get off
the train, right then we were told we were going to VIETNAM? (where in California
is that???)
2 nights of sleep with the windows wide open? (NOV)
Questioned on" where we want to be stationed state side?" ( A). East coast.
"Where do you want to be stationed overseas?" ( A) . Europe
"What do you want to be while in the Army?" ( A) . M.P.
Airplane ride to Seattle, a place called Fort Lewis. (west coast)
Training to be a Turret Artillery Repairman (not M.P.)
Basic you know the drill???!!!!!!!!
They showed me how to shoot a M-14. than gave me a 45 and a grenade launcher
to take to Vietnam. I learned how to use both in country? OJT.