6 of 14

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

episodes of " Gunsmoke" on AF radio. The rest of the time we played outside or read books.

Americans in Spain enjoyed experiences unheard of in the states. For instance, how many kids go on a Sunday drive with the family and see a medieval castle complete with a mote? How many spend Sunday afternoons witnessing a bullfight, the matador adorned in traditional costume, his capes flying, the bull charging, and the crowd roaring? How many families get to vacation by the Mediterranean sea or see gold-laden cathedrals, ancient villages, and cultures so foreign to their own? We experienced all that and more.

Madrid was a modern metropolitan city, even in the 1960's. We shopped at large department stores, ate a traditional Spanish cuisine at incredible restaurants, and visited famous museums, such as the Prado art museum. As any other city, Madrid's people came from all socio-economic levels.

I remember haggard women on the streets begging for money for a crying baby. We drove past neighborhoods where dirty children with no pants played in the street. Witnessing such profound poverty made me thankful for what I had and instilled a desire in me to help those less fortunate.

Our 4 years in Spain ended much too soon. We weren't ready to say good-bye to a country and people that we loved. Josephina had helped raise 2 little sisters from birth. She had to say good-bye knowing she'd never see them again. We had to leave best friends. That is the down-side of a military upbringing. People come and people go. Military kids often grow up with a feeling of isolation.

Internet groups, formed in the last few years, help lessen the isolation. I recently found a Yahoo group for military kids from Royal Oaks. We share memories, pictures, and the impact life in Spain had on our lives. Though we all loved life at "the Oaks, we can't go back. Torrejon closed in the 1990's. Demolition crews bulldozed our quarters to make room for luxury homes, fine restaurants, and a shopping mall. Time has a way of changing things, but Royal Oaks remains the same. She's alive and well in the hearts of the "kids" who loved her.

Learn more about this author, ByeNow.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about Memoirs: Military memories?
We want to hear your view. Write now!