[oh8eleven]

I graduated from PI in Dec '66 and what our DIs did to us as a platoon was unbelievable, but NOT unexpected. However, when some boots repeatedly screwed up, they paid for it ... big time.
Despite the "harsh" PI training, then weeks of advanced infantry training, followed by more pre-VN "combat training" - it was NOTHING compared to being in VN and in combat.
So, would getting whacked in the head with a tent pole be considered abuse back then? Only if it required two or more recruits to extract it from the other recruit's head.

[Dick Vomer]

So, would getting whacked in the head with a tent pole be considered abuse back then? Only if it required two or more recruits to extract it from the other recruit's head.

I understand what you're saying. My point is that we know some stuff happens, always has, always will. But if this guy was so out of line that nobody could cover for him, then it's the stuff we don't know about that makes me wonder.

As a "Hollywood" Marine boot we had some adjustment to our "brain housing group" in order to pay "attention to detail" also. You are correct that no matter how much training you do it's all easy street compared when the first couple of rounds go "pssfffttt" by your noggin or a friend gets dinged.

I don't know about you but you have to admit, to be 30-40 years younger, full of piss and vinegar ready to eat meat and invincible.... I do miss it sometimes. ...... all except cold weather training....THAT SUCKED. I hated and still hate cold weather. I'd take a good beat down, cause it stops when it stops, but you are always cold and it NEVER stops..hahahahahaha