Woodstock: Thomas Moran

Thomas Moran, 61, Elmont. Retired postal employee.

In April, 1969, I returned home from Vietnam with numerous ailments but happy to be home. Made plans to attend Woodstock.

I pulled into a large field and hastily pitched the tent. Friday we saw Richie Havens, [The] Incredible String Band, Bert Sommer and Ravi Shankar. Somewhat worn out already, we went back to the tent for our own party. We played guitars and sang. Saturday, found a spot among the sea of hippies not far from the stage. Stayed there 18 hours and saw every artist until Jefferson Airplane ended early Sunday with "morning maniac music." Did not get any sleep, so psyched.

Sunday was crazy. Saw Joe Cocker and the rain came down. Got very wet and cold and went back to the tent, only to find it collapsed in a field of mud and manure. Saw Ten Years After and The Band. Bummed out from the rain and burned out from partying, I had had enough. Monday morning we packed up and in the distance you could hear Jimi Hendrix playing. What a trip.