I graduated from Norris High School, Norris, Tennessee in 1953. After graduation, three pals and I went to Cleveland, Ohio to find jobs. I got a job in a foundry and worked for a few months. I suddenly realized this was not going to be my occupation.

I came home and went to Nashville, Tennessee and enrolled in the Tennessee School of Broadcasting. I graduated from there and got a job in a radio station in Guntersville, Alabama. I worked there until I got a letter from the President that said, "Greetings from the President of the United States!"

I took my basic training at Ft. Chaffee, Arkansas. After basic training I was sent to Ft. Bliss, El Paso, Texas. For nine weeks I went to school for guided missiles. I heard they were looking for volunteers to go to Red Canyon Range Camp, and I volunteered. When I got there, I said, "Lord, what have I got myself into?" But after a few months, the place grew on me.

I met a guy from Montana who played a guitar, and another fellow from New Jersey by the name of Charlie (?). We formed a little band and got a job in Carrizozo, New Mexico at the Cactus Bar on Saturday nights. A lot of good memories come from the Cactus Bar, with all the "lovelies" there by the names of Rae, Betty, Phyllis, etc. I can't forget our picnic and beer parties at Nogal Lake.

I was discharged from the Army in February, 1959. I came home, and then went to California, and worked out there for two years. My parents were getting old, so I came back home and got a job in a factory where they made heaters. I worked there until the plant closed.

I heard that the Museum of Appalachia, which is a tourist attraction, was looking for entertainers. I got the job and I am still here. I play bass in the Museum of Appalachia Band, and on TV with Marshall Andy and the Riders of the Silver Screen Band.

I hope all the RCRC Desert Rats are wealthy and healthy.

Cuzn Raye