College choices weren't much on the table in my home while I was in in high school. The unspoken assumption was that we'd, the three boys, attend college. Also assumed that meant South Dakota State College, Brookings, about 25 miles from the farm. The first year I lived in a dormitory on campus. The second year was more interesting.
Reuben and Doris were a young couple from Sinai who lived a block from campus. They'd been Luther League advisors in Sinai when I was in 9th grace. They converted the basement of their little house into a virtual dormitory. Into that small space moved six college student. Four of us were from Sinai but it's the other two of this focus.
Though the same age, Larry was Jim's uncle. They were both Marine vets. See where this is going? Well maybe... All Marine's are eligible for combat duty so are trained in infantry techniques. Yet, many have other occupational specialties. Both Larry and Jim spent their Marine years on 'sea duty'. Larger Navy ships have a contingent of Marines on board for ceremonial and security duties. They were advocates of this service.
Upon completing boot camp we could request sea duty, which I did. Sea Duty is classified as infantry so when I was not chosen I was assigned as an infantryman to a rifle company. Ed, who did not request sea duty, was given the occupational specialty of office clerk. When we were assigned to the same company Ed told the first sergeant, with whom Ed officed, that I'd be good clerk. That's how we ended up in the same office and worked together until my discharge. Yes, much better duty than infantry. Thanks Ed!👍
Takk for alt,
Al
Ed pictured last fall wearing the Marines cap I gave him.
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