Page 146 - Stand Down Vietnam

I became a company clerk. I believe that’s one of the
reasons I did not go to Vietnam. I would come down on
what was called a levy for Vietnam. My First Sergeant
would tell me I was not going, and I didn’t.

That happened several times. I wouldn't go and all
during this time he made sure I was enrolled in Army
correspondence courses and taking college classes at

night. I was doing anything and everything to become a
professional soldier. He mentored me.

First Lieutenant Easley, Sergeant Hart and
First Sergeant Valentine
Rifle and Small Arms Range
Germany June 1970

I finally came down on what was called “levy” for
assignment to Vietnam. It was my turn to go. Upon
arrival stateside, I was pulled aside and told to
select my next assignment. I chose Fort Carson,
Colorado. It is a life-long unanswered question: “Did
First Sergeant Valentine have influence one last time?”