Walthur

I grew up in the small Oregon town of Merlin. Both of my parents worked in the lumber industry. My mom and dad were alcoholics. I was abused as a child, physically and mentally. I never adjust to social life. I was constantly picked on by others. My only escape from torment was board games and books. I loved to read about all topics and subjects. I slept on the floor my entire life. I ran away from home and joined the Army at 16. My first bed was at basic training Fort ORD, CA. The soft bunk felt like rocks. I slept under my bed with a thin wool blanket. Naturally this didn't sit well with the drill sergeants. I was slapped by the drill sergent He also used demeaning words and phrases that made me hate him and everyone around. Eventually I was assigned to air mobile as a scout. I loved being a scout. If the fied it was just the two of us. I dint have to deal with being forced to put up with crap from others. My mom contacted the army and told them my true age. I was sent home from Lebanon in the most humiliating way. My social skills were so bad I didn't know how to talk to people. This isolated me and just made life even harder. I spent 22 years on active duty and my work, sacrifice, and energy accomplished task most people couldn't handle. I had one major flaw. I let my anger build because the military protected unfit superiors. I solved my issues by drinking way too much and taking that rage out on people that didn't deserve it. Ive been blown up, shot, stabbed, fell out of a helicopter, beaten, raped, and run over by cars. Somehow I survive. It took tons of therapy and many good life choices to get where I am now. If I could go back in time and change my life I would change one thing. The time I was encouraged get drunk right before graduation from Navy basic training. I was only 17 and I wasn't equipped to deal with life especially drunk. I have done things good and bad. My life is good and I strive to help others. The adventures I've had would have most people screaming BS. I wish to share these stories so that someone out there can see that life not all bad and even an ugly duckling can turn into a swan.