I sure remember the night of the lottery. My friends and I gathered at the KK (the old one on State) to watch the proceedings. I was number 45 (August 2), a very low number. Quite the party ensued that evening. In those days, all males had to take 6 weeks (I think) of ROTC, so I decided to stay in and go in the service as an officer. Towards the end of my sophomore year, I heard that the life expectancy of a first lieutenant was about a month, so I decided to take my chances with the draft. When I graduated in ’71, I got a job as a teacher and coach at Kimberly High School. I was hardly on the job when I got my draft notice. I was astounded at how quickly it came, and I am even more so today since there were no computers then. The school principal told me there was nothing he could do, so off I went for my physical, which I passed with ease. I returned home to wait. When the letter came, I felt sick. I had a hard time getting myself to open it. When I did, it stated I was not eligible to serve in the armed forces. I could not even volunteer. My father was totally disabled in WWII, and died of the disability in ’66. Further I am an only child. I did not realize such a deferment existed. Cause for another party!
