matsellah

My first introduction to the REH Universe began around 1971-72, I think.  I was at a cousin's house and he had the first run of Savage Tales.  I read all of them that day.  As we were leaving, he handed me the mags and said to keep them.
I did.
I kept buying them.  When SSOC began a year or so later, I swooped in, collecting every issue from #1 to #69.  During this time, my curiosity with Howard began and I started getting my hands on the paperbacks.  After that, I was 'all-in' and the rest is history.
In 1981, I was unemployed and had no place to live, so I enlisted in the U.S. Navy.  I couldn't bring my (very substantial comic collection, which not only included all the above, but other valuable/rare Marvel titles) so I was forced to sell them to a comics store owner for $250.00.  Had I known then what I know now...
I did manage to bring the paperbacks with me and while I lost/misplaced/lent out most over the years, I still have a couple.  They're battered like mad, but I hang onto them.
I served in the Navy from 1981 to 2003, managing to find myself in both Gulf Wars, the Adriatic and Guantanamo Bay.  The Navy keeps a day-for-day sea time counter for every sailor.  Mine totaled up to 12 years, 9 months and 13 days... AT SEA.  It cost me my first marriage, but man - did I have a blast!  (because being at sea means... port calls!!!!)
I'm retired from the Navy, making it to Chief Petty Officer before the lights went out.  I still work for the federal government, but now it's in one of their law enforcement branches that most people will recognize by the acronym.  That's all I'm going to say about that.
I'm still a reader and student of Robert E. Howard, although without the enthusiasm of youth.  But I do keep track of events and I've been a member of this website since 2003.  Actually, before that, when it's URL ended in 'no.'  I used to be a moderator on this site, but duty called and I was forced to leave home for an extended period.  By the time I got back, I knew I couldn't dedicate myself to it as much as before.  I'd gotten married, fathered a couple of children (my first - always late to the show, y'know!) and started a new career.  I don't post much, because I'd rather read the efforts of those who have a greater dedication than I to the subject at hand.  But, if I feel the need to chime in, I will.
I enjoy this site very much and have found the greater percentage of members here are intelligent, thoughtful, articulate and human.  That last one is important.  Rare is the 'internet personality' on this site.  I don't see false personas or anyone pretending to be who they're not, and that is this site's greatest attraction.  Without sounding too much like Martin Lawrence, you all are 'keepin' it real.'  And I thank you for that.
Mats