The year was 1976 and the regiment formed up in parade formation,

We were doing foot drill to impress a big name politician so we could get more money. The regiment looked pretty good. Lines were straight turns were sharp and the sun was hot. One more time to do the march past in column of route when I heard my name called. I marched to the front of the battalion where the Old Man (Commanding Officer) was standing with a big grin on his face. He removed the lieutenant bars from my shoulders and replaced them with captain's bars. This was a bit unexpected but I could use the raise in pay..... The parade practice over I decided to walk to officers mess a few miles away for a celebratory drink. I turned onto the street and was greeted by all the lieutenants lining the street saluting me. Of course protocol required that I returned their salute but no sooner had I passed one than he would run to the end of line ahead of me. This was going to be a very long walk. After about 50 yards I heard a car behind me. It was the Base Commander in his staff car. He stopped and asked me if I would like a ride. I gratefully accepted the ride and had to smile as all the lieutenants had to salute the pennant on the Commander's car antenna. Once safely in the mess ranks disappeared and the base commander bought me a drink.