Tuesday, February 28, 2023
Michael Buring and I were in Boot Camp and MM "A" school together in 1962 and everything mentioned in his tribute is so true...and much, much more. He was a grand guy to know and have for a friend. Coincidentally, on this date, February 28, 2023, I was at my desk consolidating information in various notebooks, when I happened to leaf through a section which holds photos of Mike and I at his parent's home in Columbus, Indiana (where Mike introduced me to the special attractions of dandelion wine, which his parents had in basement barrels, fermenting, and took me to the speedway at Indianapolis, where we drove his 1952 yellow Studebaker at high speeds on the original brickworks for several laps) and spent a few days adjusting to the freedom enjoyed by the civilians encountered along our way to reporting for duty and training at Great Lakes, Ill. A native Californian, Mike had invited me to travel with him back east, when we graduated from boot camp and were set loose. While speeding across the desert towards Arizona on a particularly hot day, we had a tire rupture and go flat. Do not recall the details but I do recall Mike took it all in sride, kept his composue and sense of humor, got the flat fixed and on our way we continued.
At "A" School, we were assigned to different sections and I lost track of Mike until one day I discovered him serving meals to the students in the chow hall. We spoke briefly. He told me he had experienced a heart murmur and was awaiting a final examination and possible medical discharge. That was the last time I saw him. When I graduated and was sent on to submarine training in Groton, Conn., Mike's situation had apparently been determined and he was gone. I am pleased to know he managed to continue on his desired course to nuclear power school and to now be able to read the vry pleasing description of the path upon which he continued. What an incredible man and a tribute to the people of this nation.
I was saddened to learn of his passing in this manner. I will send a donation to Wounded Warriors in his honor. William C. Smith (MM2SS ELT), currently residing in Apple Valley, Calif..
