Today I received a request from our former Battalion Commander for details on the marking for our APCs.
I already am familiar with these markings (Please don't write and tell me about the markings...I am already familiar with them)...and how they evolved through our tour, but remembered that I have a loose-leaf notebook with several rare manuals as well as a softcover book about the M113. SInce I am now very familiar with the books I have in my personal library...I knew these were not located there. I assumed they would be packed away with the several large cases of items I display at Reunions. A search just now of these contained revealed the sad news that these items are missing.
Since I have somewhat consolidated all our archives, I am 99% sure the items are missing, but will wait until the next reunion when I totally "un-pack" to see if they may be hidden away somewhere.
If they are not found, I will have little choice but to institute more secure methods in the opening of our archives room at reunions. I will no longer open the room unless I can be present. If I am called upon to leave the room, I will be forced to ask anyone in the room to leave so I can lock up.
I still hold out hope that they are with my packed away items, although I have searched thoroughly...twice.
If you borrowed these and forgot to return them at the close of the last reunion..please let me know. I am hoping it could have been an honest mistake. I will not reveal your identity to save you embarrassment.
These manuals were obtained at the expense of our membership at rather reasonable prices about 6 years ago. To try to replace them now, even if I could remember the exact manual numbers...would be extremely expensive.