My Most Haunting Military Experience: Bayonet Training Mishap
My worst memory of boot camp is definitely a personal one, but it was an experience that terrified me, horrified me, and scarred me for life. It was a nightmarish event that stands out as the only thing I dread remembering from my military training.
My experience in the US Army in 1968 was marked by several challenges, but the bayonet training incident remains the most traumatic. In the middle of this rigorous training, we were in the midst of bayonet drills as part of our bayonet training. The drill involved using a rifle to dislodge a swing arm representing the enemy rifle and then stabbing a straw-filled dummy with a bayonet. However, things took a disturbing turn when I was knee-deep in a treacherous moment.
Bayonet Drill Mishap
The drill went smoothly until the critical moment when I was supposed to catch the swing arm from the person behind me. Unfortunately, the ground was particularly muddy at Fort Lewis in winter, and that person slipped on a small patch of mud. In his attempt to execute the move, he missed the dummy and instead drove the bayonet through my right hand. It's a memory that still sends shivers down my spine, especially when I recall the moment leading up to the accident and the agony of recovery.
Fortunately, the medical facility at the base was quick to return me to full duty within just three days. However, the incident left a lasting impression on me. Even the thought of that day is enough to make my heart race. Although I had the option to lose every limb, go blind, go deaf, or even face the gas chamber again, I would never swap any of those experiences for the fear and pain of that Bayonet Training mishap.
Other Challenges in Boot Camp
While the bayonet mishap was the most traumatic incident, I can reflect on other aspects of boot camp that were more challenging but not as devastating. In phase 2 of our training, we were put through intense physical training and subjected to activities that were designed to push us to our limits. For example, the grass and rifle week was a grueling event where we spent hours in formation drills, known as "reverse formation," where four squads would turn around by going between each other.
These drills required us to traverse vast open spaces between rifle ranges, which were incredibly large and required us to make the long journey to the road before boarding buses. The constant running was punishing but helped us get conditioned for the upcoming physical fitness tests (PFTs). Despite the hardships, there was a positive side: the physical fitness training ensured that we were in top shape for the demanding programs ahead.
Another memorable but less painful experience was my wisdom teeth removal surgery in week 5 of boot camp. I was referred to as "chipmunk with portholes" because of the swelling in my face, which made shooting my rifle quite uncomfortable. However, looking back, I wouldn't trade any of these experiences for the world, as they all contributed to my journey and provided valuable lessons that I carry with me.
Conclusion
In the end, the Bayonet Training mishap remains a haunting memory, but it also serves as a reminder of my resilience and the experiences that shaped me during my time in the US Army. While it terrifies me, it also reminds me of the camaraderie, training, and growth that came from those challenging days.