Just when you think MGs make a lot of brass.....

[johntheplinker]

Thank you for the in-depth reply! That is an awesome summary.
The change in early 80s is the above-mentioned Reagan shake-up?

A very high percentage, yes. A lot of new, very capable equipment (Abrams, Bradleys, MLRS among others) was being fielded in meaningful numbers. Money was available for all units for more training, maintenance, and other niceties.
I saw some improvements by the end of 82, by end of 83 it was in full swing, not just in the higher readiness units but also the REMFs.
In addition to all the new gear, the quality of the average soldier also got better. Most of the dopers were on their way out by 83, to be replaced by somebody more intelligent, more motivated, and better disciplined.

 

[Cynical]

85-86 at Zweibruken AB, I was actually given a broomstick to "simulate" a rifle during an exercise......Running around our P.P.I.F. in MOPP gear with a broomstick.....

1987-1990 in Swaebisch Gmuend. Man I hated MOPP gear but full disclosure we actually did have rifles. I can tell you from first hand experience you cannot drive a tent peg in the ground with an A1 buttstock. It will leave a hole in the side of it. I maybe saw it happen to a buddy of mine.