Leaving Dallas, TX on 11 Oct. 63 as acting Corporal, Ron escorted a recruit detachment to M.C.R.D. San Diego, CA. It was the typical, "get on the yellow foot prints, head and eyes to the front, what the hell are you looking at maggot breath, just get on your face and begin," type of a beginning for him as it was, and is for all Marine recruits. Ron was put in 1st Batt: platoon 178. SSgt. Donald E. Beaver was senior D.I. After two days Ron was made recruit platoon guide of 87 screaming demons. For non-Marines this means Ron marched with the platoon colors at the right front of the platoon. It also meant Ron was in charge and responsible for the platoon when the D.I.s were not around (they were always there!) One thing we failed to mention. When anyone screwed up, Ron was responsible, and not only paid the price at the time of the incident with the whole platoon, but also late at night in the D.I.s duty hut. (we're having fun now, ouch!). Life's ups and downs. Nine days before graduation Ron was carried off with double pneumonia. After seven weeks, including a relapse, Ron returned to boot camp and was picked up by platoon #190, where he repeated four weeks of training. Platoon 178 had already graduated as the honor platoon of the series. Ron had lost honor man, his blues, and his stripe. After four weeks of infantry combat training at Camp Pendleton, Ron completed his first six months in the Corps, and was promoted to PFC. Since those long ago beginnings, Ron served as a jet engine technician, Marine Corps Drill Team, combat engineers, force recon, armorer, marksmanship instructor, and military police. Schools attended were jet engine technician, military weapons armorer, primary marksmanship instructor, cold weather mountain warfare, amphibious recon, scout/swimmer, and paratrooper at Fort Benning. Ron has earned gold Marine jump wings, expert rifle badge, expert pistol badge, (both w/multiple awards), five ribbons with seven clusters, and numerous citations and commendations. One of Ron's proudest memories is when he performed with the Marine Drill Team in 1964. The performance was for the 5th Marine Division's reunion at the Fountain Blue Hotel in Miami, FL. Ron visited and had drinks with devil dog Rene Gagnon, and Corpsman "Doc" Bradley. These were the last two surviving flag raisers at Iwo Jima. Gagnon died 12 Oct 79, Bradley died 11 Jan 94. Being a young PFC, Ron was so in awe of them he forgot to get their autographs and kept calling them "Sir". Ron may not have their autographs, but he does have the post card he sent to his mother back then, telling her about him meeting these brave and honored men. During Desert Storm Ron volunteered, and was gone for three months serving in the regular Marines again. (There is no place like home) Oooh Yaaa! Master Sergeant Plumlee is still in the active reserves, serving with the Provost Marshal's Office at 29 Palms, CA. Future plans? The Top says he will stay in as long as he can make a positive contribution to his beloved Marine Corps and country. SEMPER FI!