Drafted 2 times

First off I have been thinking of writing a blog with some history for my kids and grandkids so they might know why I am the way I am. Today I want to focus on why and how I was in the Army.

In 1965 I had just finished 2 quarters (yes it was quarters not semesters back them) at Utah State University. My life had been a little unstructured with the exception of church and family influence. My parents had wanted me to go on a mission, but I did not want to do anything that they wanted me to do. In my heart of hearts I wanted to go, but did not want to give them the satisfaction of knowing I would do what they wanted me to do.

My Bishop called me in and we talked about going on a mission. I said yes I would go. We started the process. I can't remember much about it because in those days you just said you would go and then you would get a call from the prophet.

The days passed and I had not said anything to my parents. One day my mom found out from the RS president that I was going on a mission. She was shocked since I had resisted all attempts to get me to go in the past. She was very happy.

I finally recieved my mission call signed by President David O McKay to go to the Northern States mission. I was to leave in October of 1967. Things were cool. I just drove my 57 Chevy and did the things a 19 year old guy would do. I dated, went to the dances and played pool at the bowling alley.....no mission prep at all.

At the time I was working at Ashton Brothers bakery. I was Ralph's right hand man. In fact when he went on vacation I was in charge. We had mothers of kids my age who worked there and it was funny to be in charge. (but I did enjoy it) Life was good I went in at 4 AM and got off about noon. Then I had the rest of the day to party on. I was having fun.

Sometime in September (I think) I recieved my draft notice. I was to go in sometime within 2 weeks of when I was to go on my mission. I can't remember how we handled this but I do remember saying "I don't know where I am going, but I do know I am going somewhere" With some help from trusted advisors we were able to convince the draft board that I should be able to serve on my mission.

I had my mission farewell (they were a big deal in those days) We had a program with pictures and who was speaking etc. I remember my main speaker was Willie Hofeltz who was the church and school custodian and I loved him. He stuttered and was not a man of high social or business standing, but he loved those he taught and most importantly knew them. To him I was the party guy. (that meant church parties where games were played...or at least that was what I thought) In retrospect he may have known more my nature at the time. Never let it be said that I did not have fun......mmmmm seems that things have not changed much.

My farewell was on Sunday...Ooops out of space I will continue to the # 2 draft later.