During my off time, I usually wore Boots and hat (cowboy style for you non Texans), jeans, shirt and a belt with a (big of course) Texas buckle. At the time, I just figured the officers didn't know me.
One day, the NCOs decided we needed to requalify with our rifles. We did so much complaining, they decided to bet a case of beer they could out shoot us. They lost of course. As I was standing around after my turn, I saw one Sgt. firing a revolver. Never one to miss an opportunity, I asked permission to fire it.
Six shoots plinked the can to the other end of the range. Turning to ask for more ammo, I saw the NCOs with their mouths open. Then, somewhat briskly, I was told I didn't need any more practice.
I thought that was the end of it until one night later on when we had an alert. I was off duty wearing my "Texas Uniform" and some of us were visiting in the guard tower when the warning went off.
Having to rush back to the hut to change and get my gear, I headed down the ladder. Just as we got to the bottom, the OD arrived. Turns out, he was 199th, though I don't remember now which one. He asked where we were going so we explained how we needed to get back and change.
He let the others go but, asked me to get in the jeep with him, stating that I could make the rounds with him. I asked about my uniform and rifle. I didn't need it, he said. I was with him so I would not get in trouble wearing civies. Still in need of a weapon, he handed me his revolver and belt which I buckled on.
We spent the rest of the alert checking guard stations, and after it cleared, he took me back to my hut. As I was getting out of the jeep, he laughed and said "that was the safest I have felt since I got here". I asked why and he said that with a Texas gunslinger for a bodyguard, there was no way he could get hurt.
Made me feel sorta like Patton down in Mexico when he was with Persing, (I believe it was), and beat one of Poncho Villa"s men to the draw. Patton was also a Texan.