Dual Service Veterans: What are Your Thoughts and Your Memories?
I crossed into the Air Force from the Navy after 9/11. During my transition, I came across many wonderful folks who were crossing over from other Branches. It was such a wonderful transition and I loved meeting other veterans from other services. It was great to have my Dad there to see me graduate Tech School. He gave a brief speech about his term of service as a Vietnam vet and Patriot and how proud and appreciative he was for the class to choose to serve. I was so proud of him!
My term of service made me appreciate the quality of life as a former Sailor who was once stationed onboard the USS Carl Vinson launching aircraft off the flight deck, working ungodly hours and slaving away for four years. The Air Force taught me a lot - most especially how important it is to have a quality work/life balance. I love the culture of the Air Force, even if, at times, I struggle with understanding the mentality and attitudes of Air Force personnel. Still, no matter how often I struggle from my former Navy life to where I am now, I really appreciate the Air Force and all that it has taught me. The Air Force softened my hardened heart and showed me a better side of the military. I hope you see that too.
Memories
Air Force
Navy
I attempted years ago, right after DS to cross over to the AF, but they wouldn't take me, gave me some BS spiel about not being to retrain MPs to work in the SP field, was told that if I had held any other MOS it would have been easy, but because I was an MP that there was nothing they could do for me.
My dad was an AF lifer, another Vietnam vet like yours, he retired in '81, two years before I went in, I originally chose the Army because he had many friends and associates while at his last duty assignment (Pentagon) during his last 5 years in. I didn't want anyone to say I got anything I accomplished via nepotism, so I went my own path, I have always loved what I did and my job in the Army, the reason I stayed in 27 years, but I have also told people over the years, if I had known them what I now know 30 years later I would have joined the AF, primarily for the family aspect as every AF base I have ever been on has knocked it out of the park as far as family culture and amenities of taking care of families and their SMs.
I am curious about one thing if you crossed over to AF, why are listed as Navy vet and not AF since that would have been your last service.
SFC James Baber - thank you for your response. What a disappointment that you were unable to cross over into the Air Force during the time you attempted to. Aside from the fact that you would have loved to join the AF knowing what you know now versus back then, I do appreciate that you continued to serve in the Army for 27 years. I agree, the AF has a wonderful family culture and amenities.
As for your inquiry regarding my rank listing on RallyPoint, I am listed as a Navy vet first and foremost as my profile shows the ranking in order of my term in service. It is personal preference. I'll always be Navy first and foremost.
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