THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, August 29, 1996 TAG: 9608290024
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A16 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 24 lines
I entered Butler University in Indianapolis under the GI Bill in September 1946. The bill was truly a grand opportunity that enriched my life.
A lesser aspect of the bill is that we vets changed campus life dramatically.
As freshmen, we refused to wear beanies and we promptly took over the student government previously controlled by fraternities and sororities. The Independent Student Association remained in control for the four years I attended.
There were some side effects. It seemed that most of us wanted to be doctors, engineers or lawyers. The academic casualties started quickly with many not up to the rigorous standards.
I trained as a teacher. Some guys even showed up in class with a ``snoot full.'' These things settled out and the grand experience was on.
ROBERT V. HIRSTEIN
Commander, U.S. Navy (ret.)
Norfolk, Aug. 21, 1996 by CNB