I received a USMCR commission in 1981. My aspiring aviation days were cut short after being NPQ'd at Pensacola (just as Phil Eubanks, I was a chronic motion sickness baby). I subsequently served 3 years active duty as a Supply Officer, assigned to the 2nd MAW, Marine Wing Support Group 27, Det B (MWSS-273). I occasionally ran into Mike Sartor while stationed in Beaufort, SC. I declined an active duty extension and became a civilian in 1984; however, I spent 7 years assigned to the IRR through the conclusion of the Persian Gulf War and was discharged as a Capt.

My nephew (oldest brother's son), Army SPC Ross Powell, courageously served in Iraq with the 1st Batt, 26th Infantry Regiment. He's now buried at Arlington National Cemetery.