Wounded and Evacuated
Letterman Army Hospital – USA
My first stop enroute to Brooke Army medical was Travis AFB, then a bus to Letterman General Hospital. During the bus ride a Col told us all that the first stop would be the dining facility and that we could order anything we wanted. If they had it they would fix it. Then we would be assigned beds and the scheduling and transport to other hospitals would start. While writing this, I realized at every juncture, some Col was detailed to welcome us on our journey and provide additional info if available. Must have had an abundance of Col needing jobs.
So first on my menu selection was steak, french fries, a salad. Then ice cream and a lot of it. I love ice cream, still do although can’t eat it as often. After we were assigned beds, if you wee ambulatory, the dining facility was open 24 hrs a day and you could go back as often as you could make it. I probably gained 5 pounds…
I was notified I would be going to Brooke Army @ Fort Sam Houston, TX, but not when. They just said on the next aircraft headed that way. Again I had access to a phone and called the wife to let her know my destination, even though I did not know when
We arrived late at night, so spend that night, next day and night at Letterman, then boarded a 141 for Lackland AFB, TX and then would be bused to Brooke Army.
What I remember most about Letterman is the food and the treatment, first class all the way. It was a very positive experience for me and one I will always remember.
