Wow, I guess I qualify for Ole Army. Worked on '59, '60, '61, and '62.
No chain saws. Was a Sergebutt privilege to swing an ax. It was an experience that pulled everyone together because in the forest, it was a battle for survival. Those logs were heavy and it was dangerous work. Not only the work, but there were copperheads and rattlesnakes; plus the black widow spiders and scorpions. And always the rain and mud plus the cold wet weather.
However, I miss the bonfire and had planned to get back to see another one. I was ready to see the '64 one but, the JFK incident precluded it.
The fall of the bonfire and the death and injury to my fellow Ags was devestating, like a kick in my gut. I griefed for those who were lost and injured; but, I also grieved for myself and the rest of the Aggie nation for I knew that it was the end of an age.