Situation (1) : During the very hot, humid summer of 1967 or 68, I'm a Marine Drill Instructor standing in front of our recruit platoon (sorry, forget number) at Parris Island. We are about to Pass In Review.
I'm at Parade Rest with sword (point of sword to the deck). On the command "Attention" I attempt to raise the blade so the point is 3 inches from the deck. The sword won't move! Suddenly, I hear the preparatory command "Present" (ARMS). I was able to raise my right hand just in time. What happened? The tip of my sword had sunk in the ultra-hot asphalt. This incident could have been very embarrassing.
Situation (2) : As a Marine Drill Instructor, I'm part of a Color Guard who is Passing In Review at Parris Island.
We are approaching the VIPs in the Review Stand. Suddenly, a sharp gust of wind causes the American Flag to completely wrap around the upper part of my body. I'm horrified! I can't see anything but the sun shining through red, white and blue. This is no time to make a mistake. I quickly asked the other members to "talk" me into the correct position. We were well past the Stand when another gust of wind unfurled the flag. Afterwards, I received a welcomed congratulations from our Battalion Sgt Major.
Semper Fi to all !
Tom RUTHERFORD (previously 3rd Bn, PISC); Captain USMC (Ret); Director, Special Security, Space & Defense (Ret) Prescott, AZ