| In August, 1939, Pop and Bessie’s friend of many years at the Cavalry School assumed command of Fort Riley. Colonel Harry D. Chamberlin often rode out to Packers Camp on Sunday morning to visit. Bessie always had a bouquet of fresh flowers for her friend, Mrs. Chamberlin. While the Colonel did not speak of reversing the demotion, Pop felt it best for others that things remain as is. Throughout his military career one fact clearly stands out. In the documents presented with this study, the Troop Commander always affixed his signature and his personal notation as to the character of the soldier. Eight times, eight different Troop Commanding Officers recorded the exact same assessment of the character of William Crismon – EXCELLENT. Pop continued to maintain his expertise in weaponry. He decided to become expert in the light machine gun. This would result in more pay. However, because of his ageing eyesight things were more difficult. Pop purchased two sets of glasses for $1 each at the Woolworth Dime Store. One pair permitted him to see the close gun sights so they may be adjusted properly. The second pair permitted him to see the target afar. Not surprisingly, he qualified as expert. |