When and why did you decide to join the military and where were you located when you made this decision?

I enlisted in the National Guard in 1970. I was living in La Canada California and had just graduated from USC. With the Vietnam War in progress, I was in the process of being drafted and I signed up to enlist in the Air Force. My father had been in the Air Force during WWII and spent 2 years in a German POW camp after being shot down over the Netherlands. My father wanted me to enlist in the California National Guard as he said he did not want me to have to go through what he had experienced as a POW. I followed my father’s advice and enlisted in the National Guard.

Where did you serve during your time in uniform?

I went to Army Basic training at Fort Ord near Monterey California. I spent the rest of my time in Glendale California.

What were some of your key memories during your time of service? 

As a member of the Guard, we did training in Hawaii. We also assisted in earthquakes and took part in civil disturbances.

What is an important value that you took away from your military experience? 

Going through Basic Training taught me a lot about myself and what I could accomplish if I put my mind to it.

 What advice would you give someone interested in joining the military? 

I think everyone should experience going through the learning experience of Basic Training. Providing service to our nation is something every citizen should be part of.