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

When I began my freshman year at the University of Pennsylvania in 1968, it became obvious that I stood a strong chance of being drafted upon graduation. I was aware of military service because my father and grandfather were veterans. I decided that if I was to enter the service that I wanted to be an officer. Penn offered ROTC programs so I joined the Army program my first year. When I received a draft number of 37 in 1970 my initial actions seemed justified.

Where did you serve during your time in uniform?

I served as a 2nd LT in the Army Quartermaster Corp in the XIIth Airborne Corp at Ft Bragg (now Liberty) , NC

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

I commanded a platoon in the Corp Support Command which provided logistical support to troops at FT Bragg. I had a very large platoon of non combat troops. My men and women were from all over the country and from varied social and ethnic backgrounds. I dealt with events and situations during my tour that altered my life. It was a life changing experience. In 1973 during the second Arab-Israeli War I was ordered to prepare to join the 82nd Airborne in case it was needed to intervene in this action. It never did. Also I am extremely proud that I completed parachute school and was awarded my jump wings.

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

During my time in the service my unit did its part in keeping America safe and deterring its enemies. We worked successfully together to accomplish the tasks and missions we were given.The country needs the selflessness exemplified by serving the country in the military to permeate society itself and work for the good of the country as a whole.

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

Most people now a days live in a bubble unaware of how others live. The military forces those in it to be exposed to fellow Americans you might never meet. This is good for the service member and America in general.