My Time in the Army

In December 1969 every young man in America was riveted to the pending draft lottery that would tell each of us the likelihood of being drafted into the army. Prior to that year virtually every male between eighteen and twenty six was eligible to be called up. But soon events became ominous because, up until the very late sixties, the Vietnam War was still raging. And to say that it was unpopular is an understatement. Bravo to those who maintained patriotic belief in the mission, but they were a shrinking minority. The war had become terribly unpopular and there was skepticism that we could prevail. And few of us really understood the mission. The famous ‘domino theory’ suggested that if Viet Nam fell to the communists it was certain it would all spread and threaten the United States. But as a junior in college and eligible upon graduation the following year I was among the skeptical. But I had no intention of evading if my number was called. My father was a World War II hero in the Army Air Corp and I was proud of this heritage. I wasn’t about to volunteer, but was ready to serve if called. Like my college pals I was waiting on the lottery. Well low and behold, the lottery started and I didn’t have to wait long. My birthday, September 14th was the first number selected. That’s right, I won the draft lottery! Wow! So shortly after graduation the following year I knew I was set to be immediately inducted. A week after college graduation I was on a bus to Fort Dix, New Jersey for Basic Training. Well as things turned out and the war waning, there was a move to reduce the numbers of active duty soldiers. So I was able to serve in the reserves, the National Guard. And I spent six years doing monthly weekend meetings in the Rhode Island and Massachusetts National Guard. Unlike recent times, reservists then were never activated for overseas assignments. I am related this because I actually enjoyed the Guard. In fact, I enjoyed the military even as a reservist. I was content to be obedient and follow orders and there was nothing especially challenging in my case. So bravo to those veterans who did the heavy lifting and dangerous duty for the country. It was just dumb luck of timing for me that I was never in a risky situation. I look back and can say I served, however tame it was compared to others then and now. But I can always say ‘I won the lottery’! Thanks to the veterans!