Just finished the 2, Aug, 2012 newsletter, great as always.
Thought I would address two posts, 1 – from G. Cagle Sgt.79-83, and 2 – from Bruce Bender 1962 – 1967 Cpl.
Sgt. Cagle mentions combination locks with the same exact numbers. Never saw this, but can relate to the miracle of the comb lock, in the dark. Personally did this and witnessed this. After closing down the EM, and later, NCO clubs you get back to the barracks long after the lights have been turned out. So how are you able to unlock your lock in the dark?? A lighter helps, but when someone doesn't have one, and they are staggering 'El Blottoed', working the combination wheel with a cigarette held in your lips could be accomplished in about the same amount of time as someone who is as 'Preacher' as can be sober. Truely a miracle!!
Bruce Bender 1963 – 1967 Cpl. Mentions just one of many innapropriate choices of vernacular usage. Here is another. After finally graduating boot camp in Oct 62', ITR, and a few months of mess duty at Henderson Hall, Va. I finally got my boot leave. When I got home I was invited to dinner with the family of a girl I never thought I had ever had an even remote chance with. I was in uniform and on my very best behavior. Around the table there was polite conversation while the family was trying to determine in what way boot camp may have changed me. Every thing was going very well until I requested something very routine but somewhat flawed. My request was, "excuse me Mrs. E, but could you please pass the F****** butter???" Time came to a sudden and complete halt. Forks stopped in motion halfway to mouths, some of the family almost drowned tryin to swallow some thing, and all eyes were on me, everyone totally speachless. As I stare around the table I am totally speechless, but I am thinking WHAT?? The silence is defaning. After a bit, Mr E. starts laughing his head off, and explained that the word I used was a specific USMC word used in certain situations. Thank God Mr. E. was not only a military Vet, but a policeman as well and understood. So much for the possibility of another chance with the skirt though.
Sgt DTL – PMI MCRD PISC 1966