In December 1966: Of more than two thousand applicants, 218 passed the admission exam and were sent to Thu Duc Infantry School where only 183 were chosen after physical tests. There, we received 4 months of basic infantry training.

In May 1967, we were sent to Dalat to begin a 2 year Political Science study at Polwar College and also a company level tactical training at Vietnam National Military Academy.

In November 1968, class 1 cadets were assigned 4-officer team leaders in Zien Hong Campaign prior to the Paris Peace Talk between parties involved in Vietnam War. The teams were to live and fight along the Regional Force and Popular Force (RF-PF) units at platoon level to carry out a propaganda plan in order to boost their morality.

May 1969, 168 graduates were commissioned and awarded the rank of Second Lieutenant and a 2 year degree in Political Science.

I was one of 13 new officers sent to 5th Infantry Division where we began our military career as deputy company commanders in combat units. I was with 16th company, 4th battalion, 8th regiment from May 69 till December 1972. In April 70, I was promoted 15th Company Commander.