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Author: joystick Published: 7/24/2006 story views: 635
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the guardhouse and asking directions, he was directed to a bus stop where he caught a base transport to the school compound. Being a newcomer on this base, he was still unsure where things were and how to get around. After telling the driver where he would like to get off, he took a seat and looked at the passing scenery.
While the driver had assured him he would notify him when to get off, it was still fun trying to guess beforehand. He was looking for a familiar landmark, but the different company areas all looked alike. Finally, the driver called out "Language School" and he gathered his gear and got off. He still felt like a fish out of water, but that was to be expected. After a few wrong turns he finally recognized his barracks, went in and found his quarters. While unpacking his canvas travel bag, he noted that his roommate must have also returned from his pass. His bed was messed up, but he was not around. Joseph washed up and then reported in to his company clerk.
"Glad to see you made it back, safe and early yet," the company clerk greeted him. "Your roommate also checked in earlier. He went to the PX I think. If there anything you need to help you get settled, now would be a good time to ask."
"Well corporal, you wouldn't happen to have a map of the area? I feel a bit lost and could use some directions or maps as to where things are located. You know, like the PX, the theater, mess hall, cleaners and the laundry," Joseph asked. The corporal pushed himself away from his desk, got up went to a filing cabinet, withdrew a few sheets of paper and handed them to Joseph.
"This should tell you everything you need to know for now. Orientation is at 1000 hours tomorrow and you will be given additional information, as well as your schedule, then. Till then you are free to roam around the base, go to the PX, or go to the base theater. They are showing a new movie there tonight. By the way, my name is Williams, Corporal John Williams. As you can see I'm the company clerk, and if you need anything, Benson, just give me a holler. You look kind of tired and beat. Bet you had a hell of a time in the city?"
"Yes, one hell of a fantastic time. New York is really a great town. Lots to see and do there. However, I know I miss a lot. I can't wait to go back again. What's the company leave policy like?" he asked.
"Well if things go the way they usually go around here, after a week or two, you should be able to get a weekend pass almost every weekend. How do you think that girl you met in the ‘Big Apple’ will like that?"
Joseph smiled at the clerk. "How did you know I met someone?"
"It's written all over your face! I could tell by the way you walked in here. I can always tell the ones that got laid. There is that self-satisfied look on their faces. And they look like they could use a full night’s sleep. Did I