This is a partial biography of my grandfather, Alexander R. Makoid, Sr., who served in the United States Army from 1951-1954. This book focuses on those three years and his experiences as a member of the 508th Airborne Regimental Combat Team. I started this book as a personal project for my family, but the story fascinated me so much I thought I should release as inspiration for others who may be researching their loved ones' pasts, or for those who helped me along the way who are just plain interested in American history and the stories of our ancestors. My grandfather went from a young Polish immigrant boy to a highly trained Special Forces-level enlisted soldier very quickly, and along the way made an appearance in a major motion picture with Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, participated in one of the largest war games in US history, worked with ROTC kids, aided in a tornado disaster relief effort, made lifelong bonds, and, of course, jumped out of some planes.