Holden Harvey - Cold War Veteran Interview

Cold War Veteran, Harvey Holden, was interviewed on August 3, 2021, in Clinton, Oklahoma. Private Holden served in the U.S. Army from 1953 until 1961 and was based in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Private Holden was a helicopter mechanic and then later a mechanic instructor for helicopters. ‪@MakingHistoryProject‬
Summary:
Harvey Holden's Early Life: Born on October 3, 1933, in rural Oklahoma near Granite, Harvey Holden grew up in a small-town environment typical of the era, with a population of around a thousand. His family, which included his parents, a brother, and a sister, managed a 500-acre farm where they grew wheat, alfalfa, and cotton among other crops. Harvey's childhood was marked by early responsibilities, helping out on the farm with various chores from a young age.
Military Service: After graduating high school in 1951 and working on the farm for three years, Harvey enlisted in the Army in 1954 to avoid being drafted into the Navy due to his inability to swim. His military career was during the Cold War era, and after basic training, he was unexpectedly sent to helicopter mechanic school, despite his preference for diesel mechanics. Harvey excelled in this field, eventually becoming an instructor for line maintenance, teaching other Army personnel how to troubleshoot and repair helicopters.
Life in the Military: Harvey's military service was primarily based at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he spent most of his time working in a school setting rather than on active duty. His duties involved intentionally creating mechanical issues in helicopters for training purposes, allowing students to learn through practical problem-solving. Harvey valued his time in the service, noting the quality of the food and the structured lifestyle that allowed him to return home regularly to help on the farm.
Post-Military Life: After being discharged due to his father's illness and subsequent death, Harvey returned to farming until 1984. Despite considering a career in aviation mechanics, he remained connected to his agricultural roots while also exploring other jobs, including truck driving. Harvey expressed a nostalgic appreciation for his military service, wishing he had pursued further education and training in aviation mechanics, recognizing the opportunities it could have provided.
Reflections: Throughout the interview, Harvey reflects on his life with a sense of fulfillment and pride in his contributions, both in military service and beyond. Despite the challenges and the paths not taken, he remains content with the life he led, emphasizing the importance of duty and the simple pleasures of hard work and family. Harvey's story is a testament to the diverse experiences of Cold War veterans and the values of a generation shaped by both global tensions and domestic responsibilities.