I have some great memories of ROTC. While I was there 75, 76, and 77, there were three instructors. Colonel Cattabiani was the officer all three years and Sargent Wolfe was there the first year and Sargent Dennis the last two years. They were all good instructors and I enjoyed the AF-ROTC classes about as well as any classes I have ever taken.
I was part of the drill team one year and loved wearing the yellow ascot and the beret. Learning to march was fun and also helped me with marching band, and, when I entered the Army 3 days after graduation I was able to keep a low profile in basic training because I already knew how to stay in time, keep in time, and follow the commands. (Compaaanny....Hhalt! Riggghhht...fahce! Preseeennnt...HArms!) Three years of Air Force ROTC also got me a two pay-grade raise in the Army (the other branches would only offer to start me off as an E-2 but the Army started me as an E-3).
I enjoyed building the model airplanes and really liked making and firing off the model rockets. I couldn't afford a very big or elaborate rocket but I sure did like watching them take off. I think the Parnell brothers had the best rockets while I was at the school. I remember Steve Irwin's rocket taking off and circling right back at us...we hit the dirt and I have no idea where it ended up. I don't know if he figured a way to do that on purpose or if it was just happen-stance.
Who didn't like the soft pretzels ROTC sold after school. Makes my mouth water just thinking about them. But I have to say, one of my favorite events was the Military Ball (and no this isn't part of an AC/DC song). The Air Force went all out for this formal event. Anyone who had the privilege of attending one I'm sure can not forget going the the Officers Club and enjoying the hors d'oeuvres, the decorations, the lighting, the food and the music (the only thing that could spoil the event would be if you made a poor selection of your date!)
What do you remember?
SOUND OFF!!!