Did a 6-yr stretch as an Airborne Infantry/Special Forces officer in the US Army after high school from 1971-1977, including an interesting tour in the RVN, spent some years as a wine buyer after that, went to college for FAR TOO long, then ended with the US Government as a passport clerk, until I retired this past June. Will write the great American novel sometime soon, I hope.
Have had a lifelong love of firearms and their history, and a PASSION for militaria of all sorts, though primarily American and Soviet weapons, uniforms, helmets and equipment. I speak multiple languages, Russian among them, and I married the daughter of a Soviet Army colonel. My wife's great grandfather was a renowned general in the Red Army, one who rose from common cavalry trooper in the Russo-Japanese War to command the 18th Soviet Army for a period during The Great Patriotic War.
MERRY CHRISTMAS to all on this forum. As one who has followed all your ups & downs, your joys and your sorrows, your reminisces and your anguish, I wish to ALL here the best of the season and the happiest, healthiest and most prosperous New Year ever. HUZZAH!