Skip Martin
United States Army National Guard
Specialist 5th Class
Active Guard Reserve – June, 1965, (age 23) - 6 years
- Cleveland, OH
- Philadelphia, PA
I proudly enlisted in the Army National Guard in June 1965, shortly after earning my college degree. Following basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, I completed Advanced Individual Training (AIT) as a medic at the renowned Fort Sam Houston in Texas.
My service took me to Philadelphia, PA, and Cleveland, OH, where I carried out critical medical responsibilities, including administering physical examinations, providing vaccinations, and supporting the overall health and readiness of our troops. In response to nationwide unrest, I was activated to assist in containing anti-war demonstrations at college campuses and other key locations, upholding order during a turbulent era in American history.
While stationed in Cleveland, I was further mobilized to assist in local hospitals, where I provided medical care to returning soldiers wounded in Vietnam, an experience that deepened my commitment to service and compassion under pressure.
I concluded my honorable service in June 1971, discharged with the rank of Specialist 5th Class.