Serving My Country

Memoir of a 1940s Stateside Soldier

A country boy joins the army in 1942…

A natural storyteller, Bud shares tales of his experiences in the Army Air Corps during World War II. From receiving his draft notice to enduring boot camp to serving as a cook and mess steward, Bud recounts the drudgery and absurdity of life in the army.

Although Bud never sees combat, he puts his civilian life on hold to serve his country. During his service in California, first at Hammer Field then Lemoore Field, he always tries to do his best with his can-do attitude and determination to succeed. From loading garbage to escorting military prisoners to planning meals for 900 soldiers, Bud seeks to excel. Despite dealing with government bureaucracy and meager resources, he learns to march, cook, and do paperwork. Lots of paperwork.

More than 16 million U.S. servicemembers served throughout the course of World War II. Four million of them never left the United States, instead working on military bases throughout the country to support the soldiers shipping in and out. These stateside soldiers—like Bud—left behind their own pursuits to perform the duties necessary to back our troops fighting overseas.

Illustrated with dozens of photos of army life, Serving My Country takes you along Bud’s journey as he adapts to military life. You’ll gain a new appreciation for the essential soldiers who stayed in the U.S. Enjoy this look at the unsung heroes of 1940s army life!