[Chad Fairbanks]

Could be. I received some advice from my father (1/5 1st Cavalry -Airmobile, Vietnam 68-69) and the advice he gave me has proven to be the best advice I could have ever received:

"When you feel like sleeping, clean your weapon first"

"When awake, take turns watching, so everyone can inspect and clean their weapon"

"On that helicoptor ride to an LZ, whether it's expected to be hot or not, inspect your weapon and clean it if necessary. Hell, clean it if it ISN'T necessary. It occupies the mind and keeps you from worrying too much."

I've lived by that, and found out myself he was right. A clean weapon IS your best friend, and will help keep you alive.

[91B]

Very good advice. I'm not trying to make excuses for the 507th, but I am willing to give them the benefit of the doubt.