(Art told this story from time to time, and Ted has recorded his recollection – 7/26/22)
Art was a radar specialist in the Marines in the latter part of World War II. At one point, he was stationed in Arkansas, and had responsibility to keep the base radar and radios working. I knew Art to be a voracious reader, and apparently he has been so his entire life.
There was to be an inspection and Art with the crew got the electronic shop in good order. Once all was ready, Art climbed onto a workbench and settled cross-legged with a book to await the inspection and show their well-organized operation.
Some time later, Art wondered why they hadn’t come by the shop, but continued with the day. The next day, however, he was summoned for a dressing-down something like: “Soldier, when a senior officer enters your space, you are to stand, salute and greet him with ‘Sir’!” Apparently, he didn’t notice that the entourage entered, inspected and left his shop, as he contentedly continued read his book.