I was very fortunate to be able to grow up near Lake St. Clair, Michigan. After I graduated in 1963 from Anchor Bay High School in New Baltimore, I wanted to serve our country and enlist in the armed forces. I was always interested in the U.S. Coast Guard Search and Rescue. After enlisting into the United States Coast Guard in July 1965, shortly after that, I left for boot camp on August 30, 1965. This was during the Vietnam conflict era. Boot camp training was conducted at the Coast Guard base in Cape May in New Jersey. Upon completion of twelve weeks recruit training, I received orders for a 327-foot ship named BIBB W-31 which was docked in Boston, Massachusetts and soon bound for the North Atlantic. While aboard ship, we spent much time on patrols in the North sector of the North Atlantic. Our primary duty was search and rescue for any down aircraft or sea traffic needing help, also we conducted radar for national defense.
While shipboard, I received my orders to participate in qualifications for the Coast Guard Rifle Team. Much of my remaining service time was in Rifle Competition with other branches of the military. Competition matches were conducted at Quantico in Virginia, Camp Perry in Ohio, Cape May in New Jersey and Boulder City in Nevada. I was also involved with small arms instructions, while assigned with the armory. I was issued the National Defense Medal, Good Conduct Award, Expert Rifle Medal, Expert Pistol Medal, Bronze Rifle Excellent in Competition and Silver Rifleman Excellent in Competition. During my service I reached the rank of Gunners Mate. I was honorably discharged from the Coast Guard on Friday, August 29, 1969. My reflection since my discharge is about the veterans, who were discharged with injuries permanently affecting the rest of their lives, I still feel for these brave men and women. I also hope, that these brave men and women who gave their ultimate sacrifice for this country, are never forgotten. GOD BLESS AMERICA!
After my military discharge, I moved back home with parents in Anchorville, Michigan. Upon my return from the service, I began my career in law enforcement being hired by the Macomb County Sheriff Department in 1970. After twenty-five fulfilling years, I was able to retired from the Department in December 1995 after serving as a Road Deputy, Evidence Technician, and Traffic Bureau throughout my career. During my career I also earned my Associates Degree from Oakland and Macomb Community Colleges. I met my lovely Bride, Deanne in 1963 prior to my enlistment and we were married on August 29, 1970, one year after my discharge. We have been blessed with two beautiful children, our daughter Jackie and our son Joe. Jackie is a Purchasing Supervisor for Mitchell Plastics. Joe is married to Tracy and is an Electrician working for the Macomb County Road Commission. Our family blessing continued, as we have welcomed four beautiful Grandchildren into our life. Jackie’s two girls Emily, Kaitlyn and Joe & Tracy’s two boys Jacob and Tyler.
Al joined the Port Huron Elks Lodge 343 on Wednesday, September 9, 2020. Al was sponsored into our Fraternal Organization by Sandy Gordon and initiated by Exalted Ruler Greg Shannon. Al has continued his support for our Lodge, by volunteering and became the Lodge Tiler for 2021-2022 term. Alvin J. Beindit - United States Coast Guard - Elk Membership #11025 - Veterans Corner #7