Starting a New Career at 59
Starting a New Career at 59
From Pilot to Truck Driver
From Pilot to Truck Driver
Greetings drivers, my name is Nick, and I am starting my final career as a truck driver.
A bit about where I come from career wise. In early 1967, i was invited by our governemt to join the ranks of the United States Marine Corps.
Now this is one of my finest careers, though it was short and full of uncertainty. I made more long lasting friends here than from any of my other jobs combined. I served from 1967 to 1972. Was a Radio Operator / Loadmaster on the KC-130 aircraft flown by the Marine Corps. One of the best airplanes ever built.
After the Marines, I found civilian life a bit trying. I attempted to re-enter the service as a medic aboard the carriers assigned to the Jolly Greens. No slots available. I was aproached by the Army, who promised me Medic and Helicopters. I said anything is better than being a civilian. So my Army career started at Ft. Leonardwood for two weeks "Minuteman Training and orientation befor I was sent to Ft. Sam Houston for medic school.
This was great. Knew that my chances of being returned to S.E. Asia were small, so I glided though and got a great assignment in Panama. I served at both Ft. Sherman and the PAD for the Jungle warfare school. We were responsible for the school and the 193rd Infantry. Great duty.
In late 1978 though, my duty received a shocker. We were deployed for the Guyana Recovery. Worst thing I had ever seen. I did not re-enlist after Guyana.
I returned to civilian life and went to school and worked for Goodhew Ambulance as a paramedic. I majored in Criminology, and was recruited by the Riverside Police Department. I worked there until my retirement in 1999.
From 1999 until 2007, I worked for Americold Logistics in Carthage, Mo.. After leaving there I took some time for me. I upgraded my pilots license to Instrument from Private, and enjoyed my flights around the central states. Most relaxing thing I have ever done is fly. Brought back some great memories of the Corps.
Now I have began my venture into truck driving. What other job can an old fart like me get around and see the country on the company's dime. I realize that you are doing allot of driving, but one can do this and get a great view of the country. Appreciate what we have. You only live once.
I have recieved a tenative date for orientation to Prime Trucking for July 15th, 2008. Time to get down and study those books and start yet another learning process.
Be Safe Guys and Gals, until my next entry.
Semper-Fi
Nick
Nick
Total Comments 9
Comments
 | Thank you for your service!!! just the other day I was watching the tv and they had the Jim Jones story on....GEEZZ what a screwball I remember watching it on the news when I was a kid. hey good luck and be safe!! |
Posted 07.03.2008 at 07.45 PM by dorf799  |
| |  Hey you did it cool I'll have to keep a eye on your adventures Good luck |
| Posted 07.03.2008 at 08.00 PM by Baack |
| |  You got me beat. I'm starting trucking at 49. Good luck and keep the rubber side down. |
| Posted 07.04.2008 at 03.17 PM by pappygrayowl |
| |  Best of Luck to you!I am sure we will be reading about your Trucking Adventures with Prime very soon. Make sure and say hi to Steve and Lo if you see them. They are Prime Team drivers (Hubby & wife) and are great people. They really like Prime, and sound like they are living the Life. Good Luck Troop, Keep regular Sit-Rep's Posted.  |
| Posted 07.05.2008 at 09.15 PM by bor |
| |  I'm looking at Prime as well. I will most probably start in August though. |
| Posted 07.08.2008 at 06.27 AM by Saved |
| | You too keep us updated on your progress. August is not too aweful far away!  |
| Posted 07.08.2008 at 02.09 PM by bor |
| |  Hope things are well.It was a pleasure meeting you in Springfield. I should of given you my number if you had anymore questions. You can message me on the other board if you want it. I will get back in a week and pick up my truck. Vacation has been great, but Im ready to hit the road again! |
| Posted 07.24.2008 at 05.09 PM by U2Exit |
| | You have given me hope. As a retired Navy guy I am considering doing the truck driving thing. Sounds great to me. Keep me up to date on your adventures. I'm considering attending Roadmaster in Jax, Fl and then on to Allen Freight Services. Any input, good or bad, would be greatly appreciatedas I know very little about the biz. Thanks for listening. WFBE |
| Posted 07.25.2008 at 08.05 AM by wjevans |
| |  You must be to busy to make entries. |
| Posted 09.28.2008 at 11.12 PM by mannmk7 |
Recent Blog Entries by Nick352
- Just recieved the "Call to Duty" from Tina at Prime today (07.10.2008)
- Starting a New Career at 59 (07.03.2008)
