Carl Heizelman, who lives in Avon, was introduced by Gary Hyde. He has written about his experiences in the military, especially about his time in Vietnam. His book has been described as a combination of Mash, Cinderella Liberty, and Catch 22.
Carl told his that he had wanted to write his book for 50 years. It’s not that Vietnam is funny, but there is a lot of time to fill in the military. He quit high school at 17 after receiving a G in one course. The teacher said his work wasn’t good enough to deserve and F. He’d heard stories from his dad about the fun he’s had in the marines, so he enlisted. Then he figured out that the marines are not fun.
The 83 men in his bedroom was the men living in his barracks. It’s hard to live so close to so many other soldiers. The lights go on at 4:30 A.M.! And if a soldier is slow to get up, the sergeant makes him suffer. So you get up and get the bunk made in record time. He was afraid to ask questions; he just tried to listen and understand.
In boot camp he had to navigate an obstacle course. It was manageable until he had to climb a 25-foot rope. He was terrified about the rope, but finally had to climb it. During that time he got 2” taller and gained weight in his chest and shoulders.
He was then sent to Camp Pendleton, which was his first time in California. He was told to go over to a corporal and congratulate him because his sister had won an ice-skating championship. The corporal’s sister actually had no legs. Fortunately the corporal was used to the joke and played along. From that time on Carl realized that practical jokes were frequent.
Carl volunteered for Vietnam to be part of the action. His first impression of the place was the incredible heat and the horrible smell. He was assigned to Camp Evans, which was responsible for an ammunition dump. One day he was riding in a truck carrying live ammunition and started to light a cigarette. The driver pointed out that an open flame so close to live ammunition isn’t wise.
Marine draftee – home schooled by Mormons – have you gotten your period.
Transferred to north in Vietnam – Marine C130’s don’t have seats; link arms on takeoff and landing. Spotter planes Piper Cub. Sometimes an empty seat and asked for ride. Best friend from grammar school. 4th trip. Asked to fly himself – got good instruction.
Air and Space Magazine – stories about first flight – wrote the story and was published. Got in touch with the pilot after many years.
He learned a number of lessons in Vietnam:
- Worrying doesn’t alter the outcome
- You’re more capable than you think
- Don’t chew tobacco when you’re picking up explosives.
Thanks, Carl, for sharing your experiences and your insights.