Do you remember the day you arrived at Phu Cat? You had been unceremoniously dumped off a plane at Da Nang, Tan Son Nhut pr Cam Rahn Bay and ignored. When you had inquired as to what travel accomodations had been arranged for you, unhesitantingly you were informed, "Everybody gets around in-Country best they can". Somehow after sevaral more "Baggage Drills" you manage to hitchhike your way via a Carabou, C-123 or Whatsyacallit; finally arriving at Phu Cat. There you stood before the terminal burdened with B-4 bag, duffle bag, ditty bag, suitcases and several "what the hell did I drag this thing along for's. Still in a partial state of shock, still unable to convince yourself that you were really in Vietnam and certain that Charlie with rocket or bullet had you zeroed in, you stood there in anticipations an trepidation. It was a year about to begin. Do you remember that day? You're damn right you do!

After signing-in at the Orderly Room of your new organization your "Sponsor" did his best to help you with the settling in process. Lots of introductions to lots of new faces. Too many names to digest at a crack. EMO managed to provide you with a couple more bags of gear to your growing collection, all of which according to the Housing Officer was supposed to fit in the 2'x2' closet which came with the "palatial" quarters he had assigned you. Process in, get squared away with Finance (a 12 month or never task), get a mail box assigned, find the chow hall. Where is the Officers Club?, the Airmens Club? Boy, do I need a drink. Finally you were beginning to get settled. It wasn't exactly home, but it would only be for a year. Only for a year !! Your day was to be divided into roughly two periods, work time -- leisure time, with emphasis on the former.