[Seahawk]

I was not ROTC nor did I go to any of the Academies...Officer and Simpleton School for me...when the program still had Marine Drill Instructors.

I am in no way comparing, David, your experiences and mine: while the DI's were on point, the physical nature of AOCS is completely different...after 4 to 6 weeks, the emphasis was less on PT more on minute details, academics and teamwork. I went in over prepared for the PT and was surprised at how many were not.

What struck me, and still does, was just how funny the DI's were in certain moments, remarkable pace and timing.

I may have written this before, but it remains a moment I will never forget - the Gunny made me laugh, a high crime:

We were on the parade field in Pensacola formation marching, which is actually pretty interesting from a learned behavior standpoint.

One of my classmates, a great guy, had effeminate mannerisms but was married to, I kid you not, one of the best looking women I had ever seen, and I had seen a lot. He was a lawyer, a bit older and he got his wings and became a P-3 pilot.

Let's call him Senor.

The way it used to work marching in formation was three abreast, tall up front and descending in height. Senor is mid pack, 30 plus dudes. I am in the first row.

Remember, this is late '82.

The DI is barking marching orders and we are doing well. Then:

"Hippity Hop Mob stop!"

We do and he gets between me and the guy to my right and goes: "Who is that marching like a girl back there?"

"Oh, it's you Senor, carry on!"

I made a slight, unconscious guffaw and my day got a lot worse. It was worth it.

Best to you, David, thanks for the memories.