In 1971, Ray Pawlicki graduated from a small high school and wanted to go into veterinary medicine, but funds were low. So, he decided to pursue a military career. It was between West Point and Annapolis Navel Academy. The application form from Annapolis needed a postage stamp and West Point did not. Since a postage stamp was not readily available, he sent his application to The United States Military Academy at West Point.
“The best thing about West Point was meeting Terry. She was loitering during my guard. She wanted to go to The Plebe (a freshman dance) but I could not let her in.” However, he did let her in his heart. They began dating and were married five days after Ray’s graduation from West Point.
Ray began his career in the Army as a second Lieutenant of Field Artillery in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. After four months there, he was sent to Germany (accompanied by Terry). After Germany, they served in Fort Riley Kansas. That is where their two children were born.
Terry received her BA degree in education during their time in Fort Riley, but never exercised her teaching skills. She said that in the 1970’s, women were beginning to want their own career. There was a high divorce rate at this time because their pursuance of a separate career sometimes clashed with a military career. Terry decided early on that she wanted to put Ray’s military career ahead of her own. That worked for them, as they are very happy with the memories of serving our country. They keep in contact with many couples they met through this experience.
Terry and Ray agree that the hardest part of their military journey was “artillery alerts.” When you would receive a knock on your door or a call, and you had to go.”
“I never knew if I was ever going to see Terry again.”
Terry added, “It was hard not knowing if or when he would come home. There is a lot of stuff I never knew, don’t know now and don’t want to know.”
Ray states that one of the highlights of his career was when he commanded the tank plant in Lima, Ohio. He also worked with the state Department in Egypt. Another high point was developing the Paladin Howitzer in Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey in 1993. It is still there. (The Paladin helped to bring about a swift victory in the fighting phase of the Persian Gulf War of 2003.)
Terry and Ray only speak of serving their country in a positive tone. She believes because of this experience, they are more open to changes and have a much more positive feeling about our country. She added that traveling to many places also gives one a larger global view of what is going on in the world.
Terry added, “It makes you think as a country, we’re going to be OK.”
