When I was in bootcamp in 1957, we were required to use iron-on tape and the sew around the edges on our brown socks for junk on the bunk. You should have seen those boot's asses puckering as they tried to master the needle and thread. Thanks to my Mom she had taught me a little sewing (e.g., buttons, darn socks, etc.) I even made money after boot camp helping other guys!
John Foley
Plt. 358, 3rd Bn. MCRD San Diego
June-September, 1957