Your post brought back some AWFUL memories of the MCMWTC.
In preparation for an unrevealed assignment — we KNEW we were in a pickle the instant we arrived at Pickle Meadow in the middle of a harsh winter storm in the early 60’s.....
I thought I would die from the cold, altitude or exertion required to get through the training.........then afraid I wouldn’t die.
My first time on skis or snow shoes, first time any higher that the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and the first time I was hungry for such a long period of time.....
Cannibalism is no longer unimaginable for me...
Had we not all been Marines - I’m sure I could have devoured anyone else we may have come across...
It was heartbreaking to see all the small animal tracks in the snow — but never even once really having a chance to kill anything to eat.....and the constant movement prevented setting traps and awaiting a meal...
My next assignment? Vietnam - arriving in Summer...
Boy did the MCMWTC prepare me for that!< /sarcasm>
BTW Thank you for your service!!!