University Motel

     In the late 1960's and early 70's, many of the young men who served in the military (myself included) used the term "Lifer" as a derogatory reference to a pathetic loser, a moron who had chosen the military as a career because they were either too dumb, too poor, or too unmotivated to achieve anything else in life.  The word was derived from Military slang, a set of colloquial terms that were unique to, and originated from within, the ranks of military personnel.  When I was a solder in 1968, almost everyone I knew shuddered at the thought of becoming that dreaded "Army Lifer".  However, in the years since then, I have come to believe (and I'm sure many my age will agree) that most of those "Lifers" were selfless patriots and warriors who dedicated their lifetime, or a significant portion thereof, in service to their country and the loved ones they cherished so dearly.  I now hold them in highest regard, and offer my deepest respect for the sacrifices they made in protecting my freedoms.