Can you describe how you felt coming home from a deployment or combat?

2021-10-26T11:52:08-04:00

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Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2021 12:02 PM

2021-10-26T12:02:17-04:00

RallyPoint News Blessed!

Response by PO2 Russell "Russ" Lincoln made Oct 26 at 2021 12:14 PM

2021-10-26T12:14:13-04:00

For me it was certainly a mixed bag. Nervous about taking up the mantel of husband and father. Excited to see my family again and concerned that my absence made my young daughter feel like I deserted her.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2021 12:41 PM

2021-10-26T12:41:44-04:00

I was glad to be headed to Ft Dix for out processing with a little apprehension with seeing those whom I hadn't seen in a few years.

Response by CPL Ryan Thibault made Oct 26 at 2021 12:56 PM

2021-10-26T12:56:08-04:00

Excited and a little scared too. I would always be so excited to see friends & loved ones but I always felt a little anxious because I didn’t want to be different from what they were hoping to see.

Response by SSG William Jones made Oct 26 at 2021 1:25 PM

2021-10-26T13:25:27-04:00

Thankful that God protected me in the desert where there were many people who wanted to kill me‼️ He brought me back to the USA safely, because He had other missions for me over here.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Oct 26 at 2021 1:44 PM

2021-10-26T13:44:10-04:00

I was excited for the first 24 or so hours. But after that initial period, I wanted nothing more than to leave. Life whilst deployed was is simpler. No longer surrounded by what one has come to know and expect, no longer around those one has spent all his time around, and looking forward to a future that is categorically different from which one has become adapted, one yearns for what feels "safe", metaphorically even if not literally.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2021 2:12 PM

2021-10-26T14:12:37-04:00

After leaving Vietnam, I went to Okinawa for four days to pick up the items that I had left there and prepare to go to the states. While there, a Marine that had just arrived from Vietnam, informed me that my best friend had been killed the day after I left Vietnam. I was sad, angry and shocked. Stateside, myself and other Marines, made the trip by bus from Marine Corps Air Station El Toro to LAX. At LAX we were greeted by maggots that tried to block our way, and called us every name they could think of. One woman asked me how many babies had I killed while another told me to repent for my sins. I was in uniform so that I could fly at the military standby rate. I was not in a good mood but I kept my discipline and did not respond to these maggots as I wanted to.

Response by SFC Terry Fortune made Oct 26 at 2021 2:14 PM

2021-10-26T14:14:34-04:00

Mix emotions. Came home early, because my had been diagnose with breast cancer. Was glad to be home, but still worried about my platoon in Iraq. They were my troops and will always be my troops.

Response by TSgt Wayne Brown made Oct 26 at 2021 2:20 PM

2021-10-26T14:20:29-04:00

Pissed off with the way we were treated(Nam) Glad to be home and not in the sandbox(desert Storm)

Response by SN Kristi Kalis made Oct 26 at 2021 2:27 PM

2021-10-26T14:27:22-04:00

I thought I would be excited to get back to normal, but I was sad and depressed. The first thing my mom said was, "What did they do to you?" Lol. I was thin and pale, rather sickly looking. I had lost 20 pounds because it was too hot to eat most of the time. I missed the adrenaline, the urgency to do things, the comradery.

Response by LTC Tom Jones made Oct 26 at 2021 3:39 PM

2021-10-26T15:39:26-04:00

Lost and alone knowing that my girlfriend of four-plus years had been married for about five months by the time I made it home.

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Oct 26 at 2021 3:45 PM

2021-10-26T15:45:39-04:00

One of my sons, a Combat Infantryman did three combat tours; his older brother did one. I was heartened when each came home from a deployment, neither were screamed at about being, "baby killers," or otherwise harrassed.
When we Nam Vets came home though, it was totally different. At the El Torro Marine base, there was a small contingent of military dependants who applauded us and waved American Flags; but at LA Int'l Airport, we were booed, and called murderers and baby killers. As a medic, it was probably even more offensive to me. When I landed at Pittsburgh Int'l Airport, I stayed ont he plane until every last person was off. I sat ther so long, my parents thought I'd missed the flight, but I was avoiding the civilians who were virtually ALL hostile during the flight from California; particularly the stewardesses.
Entering the airport, I was glad I took a flight arriving in the late evening - no protesters and no hassles at the bagage claim area.
Back then we had to travel in uniform, and I was proud of my Marine dress greens despite any animosities at LA or onboard the flight. My demeanor was pretty much, "in your face," and I didn't give a rat's ass about anyone's disrespect so long as they didn't try to touch me. That same attitude remains to this day - I have only two non-veteran/non-police friends. It is what it is.

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Oct 26 at 2021 3:58 PM

2021-10-26T15:58:33-04:00

Returning from 12 months of active combat, I started out feeling happy and relaxed. I was taking a Greyhound bus from Fort Ord to my home New York City because I couldn't afford to fly on what the Army was paying as travel pay from Ft Ord to Ft Knox.

The first time I realized that anything was 'different' was when we stopped in Salt Lake City. I didn't realize that it was Pioneer Day and the fireworks started. That's when I first realized that I had changed.

Over the next few days I came to realize that the vast majority of people were basically sheep and that I was something else.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Oct 26 at 2021 4:16 PM

2021-10-26T16:16:02-04:00

Felt great being home with my wife and son, even though I was with my buds RallyPoint News

Response by TSgt George Rodriguez made Oct 26 at 2021 6:56 PM

2021-10-26T18:56:22-04:00

During the cold war back in 66 coming back from Germany as a single GI coming home to my parents house and spending some time I was grateful to be with my parents and siblings. It was a far different coming back home from Thailand in the 70's at the end of the war and taking in the refugees from Viet Nam. I felt relieved returning to my wife and children to resume my role as a father and husband.

Response by SrA Barbara Johnson made Oct 26 at 2021 11:14 PM

2021-10-26T23:14:05-04:00

Thrilled, excited, at peace, anxious to see EVERYBODY, more than blessed!!!!

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Oct 26 at 2021 11:46 PM

2021-10-26T23:46:56-04:00

Didn't have an inkling what to expect, yet it was a beautiful moment to be back home, I imagine, among family, friends and colleagues with a more mature approach to life, which is time-bound; cherish every moment with your loved ones and be glad to have the Teammates you do.

Response by MSgt David Guenther made Oct 27 at 2021 12:15 AM

2021-10-27T00:15:57-04:00

Empty followed by nervous, then relief and joy!

Response by SPC John Coleman made Oct 27 at 2021 2:54 AM

2021-10-27T02:54:29-04:00

Blessed to be alive.

Response by SGT Bobby Ewing made Oct 27 at 2021 10:56 AM

2021-10-27T10:56:51-04:00

I was always so excited to return home after deployment. I Loved coming home, especially my girls. They were always so excited and happy when I came home. That all changed after Desert Storm. I came home anxious, and a little afraid. I had seen and been involved in quit a few things that changed me as a Human for ever. My then wife and my girls could tell I had changed and often told me so. It has taken a lot of time and work on my part to get to "Normal" levels. Finding the right Dr.s, the right meds, and a Harley Davidson, have really helped!

Response by SFC Bradley Lechner made Oct 27 at 2021 11:03 AM

2021-10-27T11:03:47-04:00

I was excited to get home; really missed my wife and sons, it was a long time away. A little anxious, too,but thought I was ok. I never thought I'd be one of them that had issues.........but I did. I'm forever grateful my family did not abandon me when I fell apart. I make it day to day now with help of meds and my service dog.

Response by SPC Richard Rauenhorst made Oct 27 at 2021 2:33 PM

2021-10-27T14:33:27-04:00

I was happy and excited. I was met at the airport by family and a friend. But more excited about meeting with a young lady I met before going into the service and she started writing me about 6 months after having been in Vietnam. In our correspondence with snail mail we got to know each other very well. And when I came to the door to pick her up the hand writing was on the wall. I got out of the service in March 30th 1972 and we got married on June 24th. She is the one who got cancer, not me, which came back after 18 years and she passed away Oct. 3rd 2009.
I still miss her almost every day even though I have met another wonderful lady.

Response by SFC William Linnell made Oct 27 at 2021 3:08 PM

2021-10-27T15:08:08-04:00

Well, for me it was all good. I didn't have a family to "come" home to. I was single at the time, been divorced for about 4years so I was good. the typical nervousness came with being at a new duty station and how the unit would be run. As I was trained to go to Afghanistan as an Embedded Training Team or Combat Advisor in 06' and came back to be an Instructor/Trainer. It took me a bit to "relax" but it was even quicker for me to get pissed off. And it was mostly the Army National Guard or Active Army teams that did it. And my command made appointments for me at Mental Health. :)

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2021 3:35 PM

2021-10-27T15:35:24-04:00

I felt lost in a world that couldn’t understand what I endured in 13 months

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2021 4:28 PM

2021-10-27T16:28:04-04:00

The first time I returned from RVN, 1968, I was very excited about being home and seeing family. Second time 1970 I was sent to Ft. Lewis without any assignment orders. I was a bit pissed. I took leave home until I received orders. It was still great to get home and see family. I was never treated badly by anyone while traveling in uniform.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Oct 27 at 2021 7:40 PM

2021-10-27T19:40:31-04:00

After coming home from the first one, I felt a lot of relief because my chain of command and NCO support channel were frequently trying to get me killed and set me up for failure during this deployment. But I also felt out of place because I spent almost the whole deployment isolated from people who actually gave a damn about me and rarely having any kind of fun on my off time. I was either working, trying rest, trying to survive, or in the gym working on my fitness so my chain of command & NCO support channel would have NO REASON to deny me my re-enlistment. So it took a little bit to remember how to have fun when I got back since I wasn't "doing the wrong thing" while deployed like everyone else was doing.

Response by SFC Edward Ermey made Oct 27 at 2021 8:37 PM

2021-10-27T20:37:29-04:00

All I can say is changed. Everyone I knew that came back from Iraq, something about that deployment seemed to make them more angry. Myself included. But I achieved my goals out there, an honest 98% equipment readiness for the duration of my deployment with a Combat Engineer Company (CSE) and every Hummer with spare tire and mount installed. An extra dump truck having multiple spare tires for each type of equipment that was used for each mission. The high optempo, caused me to be underwhelmed upon return.

Response by SGT Michael Brand made Oct 28 at 2021 12:45 AM

2021-10-28T00:45:47-04:00

Relieved!

Response by PO1 James Akins made Oct 28 at 2021 11:44 AM

2021-10-28T11:44:34-04:00

I completed my first "Mediterranean" cruise onboard the "USS California CGN-36", visiting "Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey and Israel". I saw some really amazing things, experienced many of the different sights, sounds and foods of each country and shared my experiences of living in "America" with the people of these countries. I took pictures and wrote many a letter home to my mom describing in great detail every place that I had been to bring her into my cruise experience. When we returned to the "Norfolk, Virginia" it was awe inspiring with all of the dependents and loved ones waiting on the pier as we arrived. I expected no one to be there but to my surprise my brother was on the pier and the feeling of seeing him there was overwhelming its like we had met for the first time.
I got off the ship a little while after we tied up, had some department/divisional things to do prior to leaving the ship. I saw and experienced some amazing things on that first cruise but coming home and walking down with the pier with my brother because it gave me a real sense of freedom and that is when I realized I was truly and "American".

Response by SPC Gerald Freed made Oct 28 at 2021 12:00 PM

2021-10-28T12:00:20-04:00

Glad to be home.. But I quickly found out most folks (Except Family) were not happy that I was home after being in Southeast Asia.

Response by TSgt John Buzzard made Oct 28 at 2021 2:14 PM

2021-10-28T14:14:23-04:00

After coming home from Desert Storm, I had to figure out my place in the family unit. My wife and 2 daughters had their own routine and I had to adjust to them, not them to me. I had just moved the family to Germany before deploying, they started the life in Germany with me trying to catch up.

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made Oct 28 at 2021 6:09 PM

2021-10-28T18:09:13-04:00

Surreal. Went from Iraq to Walmart in 24 hours. Surreal

Response by CPL Raul Perez Jr made Oct 29 at 2021 9:15 AM

2021-10-29T09:15:55-04:00

It felt I was out of place. So many changes to digest, but it felt good being home.

Response by SPC Martin Mahan made Oct 29 at 2021 2:01 PM

2021-10-29T14:01:35-04:00

Glad to be back. Somewhat stressed, though. Took up drinking for awhile.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2021 5:56 PM

2021-10-29T17:56:29-04:00

To say I didn't have a bit of anxiety is an understatement. I was so thankful for being alive that I wanted to kiss the ground in formation, but didn't of course. I was also concerned about reintegration with not only home life but society as well. Having to go from survival mode to blending in with citizens in the communit. I had to realize everyone was not a threat to my safety.

Response by SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. made Nov 1 at 2021 1:49 AM

2021-11-01T01:49:54-04:00

Went to Iraq and left my daughter with my Ex-Wife to care for. I felt bad but also relieved, because I had to worry about my two sons who were with me down range in various units. I was worried for them when they went on convoy missions. The older son with 3rd I.D. was in Bagdad as a (PSA) Personal Security Attaché, to the General at Camp Liberty (The Green Zone). And my other son was in Sauder City doing Cordon searches door-to -door with the 82nd Airborne Division, and me with the 101st Airborne Division.
At 0230hrs, I remember arriving at the Bangor Maine Airport and hundreds of citizens gave us a warm reception welcoming us back home. I will never forget that!
Once we all arrive back home safely, it’s like with had to start from scratch again, rebuilding our relationships. It was kind of hard since we all suffered from PTSD. But Thank GOD, for bringing us home safe and continue to be strong.

Response by SPC Jeff Stassin made Nov 1 at 2021 10:04 PM

2021-11-01T22:04:49-04:00

The support from everybody in airport was tremendously overwhelming with pride for the people who was there for us, and truly disheartening at the same time knowing my family wasn't there to witness it. The sacrifices each soldier had to make, the coexistence of virtually every nation all working together as a one team for a common goal of trying to help a country gain peace in existence.
To remember those feelings 12 years later and to see P.B.S. (President Bull Shit) Biden erase all of which we worked so hard and fought for with our blood, sweat, tears and lives truly makes me feel like my time and my falling apart body was utterly wasted and it was all in vain. I wonder why him and all his minions or his puppeteers have not been arrested and incarcerated yet, for treason of the highest counts for destroying many other countries futures including ours. They are not untouchable, why are we letting them think they are???????

Response by SSG Rick Miller made Nov 3 at 2021 8:41 AM

2021-11-03T08:41:05-04:00

I was thankful to be alive and in one piece. Excited to see my loved ones again. Happy to be back home. That all lasted about a week, then reality came crashing down. I couldn't be around crowds, I couldn't have a conversation with my civilian friends, since we no longer had anything in common. Loud noises made me jumpy. I kept my head on a swivel, and evaluated everything and everyone in my field of vision for threat level. I shut down emotionally for a long time. It took some time, but I once again became a sociable, pretty decent human being, but that darkness is always there. The demons are locked away, but there are times that some sight, sound or smell will trigger them, and they bust out of their cage. Fortunately, I have an incredible support network, and they can talk me down. My biggest struggle these days is overcoming the "bunker mentality" that makes me want to withdraw, isolate and close off. I do still have trust issues, and there are less than a handful of people I allow to get close, physically, mentally and emotionally, yet I'm not lonely, even when I'm alone, if that makes any sense. Sorry for the length of the answer.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2021 5:48 PM

2021-11-03T17:48:53-04:00

Mixed emotions. Glad to be home, but sad to not be in the fight. I built a bond with those I served alongside. Leaving them wasn’t easy. Trying to get used to not carrying a weapon was difficult for a long time. Connecting with others has always been difficult after coming home. Every time was different and strange.

Response by PO2 Camille Muhammad made Nov 3 at 2021 5:59 PM

2021-11-03T17:59:44-04:00

Eventhough I enjoyed Japan, it felt good being back home!

Response by CPO Kelly Goldsby made Nov 3 at 2021 6:45 PM

2021-11-03T18:45:12-04:00

Returning home was always exciting and a burst of love as your greeted by loved ones! It’s also very sad as you bare witness to fact that your children have grown and changed over the past 9 months to year. You realize how much you missed & not just specifically, the birthdays & holidays, but everything. It’s a high & a low but relief to be back in the comforts of home and your family/friends. Everyone safe. My happiness is in just really looking at them & listening to their voices, especially the 1st few day & weeks. Pure love again like the day I birthed my children & loving your spouse just because they did the best a parent single handed, could do. Appreciation for sure.

Response by SP5 Sluggo Bill made Nov 3 at 2021 6:48 PM

2021-11-03T18:48:20-04:00

It was totally surreal coming home from Vietnam in 1968. I don't think I absorbed anything for the first week I was home I was on constant alert didn't sleep well and every little sound woke me up. I remember an ambulance coming down the street with his siren and I rolled under the bed and covered and my wife at the time asked me if I was okay and I told her it don't mean nothing. Sorry

Response by PFC Ralph Ford made Nov 3 at 2021 7:07 PM

2021-11-03T19:07:25-04:00

I felt very out of place , like home wasn't home any more. Guilt for being home a feeling like I need to go back,,,, but yet at the same time never wanting to go back. Night time is still the worst.

Response by SGT Paul Willette made Nov 3 at 2021 7:09 PM

2021-11-03T19:09:00-04:00

It was definitely a hard adjustment. I felt like an outsider in my own home when I returned. It took me awhile to adjust to waking up in my own bed. I felt like a stranger to my kids and my wife. But as the days went by, life changed and I was able to adjust to being home again. I still have bad dreams from my time deployed, but I learned to deal with them over time.

Response by SPC Tom Hunt made Nov 3 at 2021 7:20 PM

2021-11-03T19:20:42-04:00

When I was coming home after a one year deployment to Vietnam, I wanted to first visit a friend that I had met in the military that had invited me to visit him in California and so, I went to Bakersfield to see him. He took me to the horse track in Santa Anita. I'll always remember it because, I wore my uniform there and when I won $200 on a $2.00 EXACTA, I changed into lleather pants with silk lining that I had purchased in Saigon and flew home in them to Indiana. I had been in 100 degree weather everyday for one year and because of that I was extremely tan
My sister was picking me up at the Indianapolis airport and walked right past me and I turned and said, "Did you come to pick up someone else or me? She was appalled . She said, "Oh my God!".
My mother told me when I got home that she didn't know me at all, because I let my hair and my beard grow because I no longer had to worry about it for so long.
I have much more to tell, but I won't go there now.. It's a long story.

Response by SSgt Marina Marini made Nov 3 at 2021 7:24 PM

2021-11-03T19:24:00-04:00

I remember coming back to CA after spending almost 5 years in Okinawa, Japan. It was wonderful being back in the USA again. The heat and humidity in Okinawa seemed to play a big part in people being overall a bit grumpy on Kadena AFB. Back in CA, I remember people just seemed overall much happier.

Response by MAJ Robert Lydzinski made Nov 3 at 2021 7:25 PM

2021-11-03T19:25:04-04:00

It was strange in 1978. Everything was strange. I had a family at home and wanted to see them as soon as possible. I was not spat upon but I witnessed it happening to other service members. It was in the airports and on the news. We were all in disbelief. We were doing our duty and were being taunted and harassed. it was bewildering and strange.

Response by SGT Melina Bush made Nov 3 at 2021 7:51 PM

2021-11-03T19:51:59-04:00

I was nervous but relieved. My baby just turned 2 so I missed alot of his “firsts” and had to learn alot about him that I had missed for the last year in Iraq. It was a but overwhelming at first.

Response by PV2 Elizabeth Rathbun made Nov 3 at 2021 7:52 PM

2021-11-03T19:52:46-04:00

I was not in long enough to go on deployment. But I do remember the feeling of going home that first Christmas and seeing my family. I do however vividly remember deployments from the other side of the table. My Dad was in the Navy for 23 years. I can remember as a teenager waiting for him to go on deployment and get him out of the house. Until the day came for him to leave and crying so hard when he got on the plane to meet the Sara CV-60 in Spain. That year they were sent to Libya. I still have in a frame the response I got to a letter I sent to the Department of the Navy asking them to take care of my Daddy. I remember standing for hours at NAS Mayport on the docks waiting for the first sighting of the ship coming home. All of the sailors lined up in dress whites along the railing and trying my hardest to figure out which one was my Dad. The camaraderie with other families there, some you had never met or would see again, was indescribable. Finally seeing my Dad walking towards us with his seabag in hand and knowing he was truly home safe and sound is one of the greatest feelings in the world. My Dad went on his final deployment April 10, 2019 and the send off he received at the Lake City Florida VA hospice unit was enough to bring anyone to their knees. And I know that when he got that homecoming in Heaven he was greeted just as happily by his fellow veterans, not to mention our family, as when we met him coming home from all those deployments.

Response by SPC Amanda Saucedo made Nov 3 at 2021 8:38 PM

2021-11-03T20:38:22-04:00

I felt really excited to be coming home. But I didn’t realize until I was back home how much anxiety I had.. particularly social anxiety. I also didn’t expect to have as much trouble sleeping after a year of getting less than ideal sleep in Iraq.

Response by Sgt Richard Graziano made Nov 3 at 2021 8:47 PM

2021-11-03T20:47:10-04:00

It was mixed. My last deployment was a year long. Coming home and getting used to the culture was kind of a shock, and you'd be surprised how much people can change in 6 months, 8 months, 9 months and a year. My first deployment return was shocking in that people had changed, some in small ways, others in major ways. You can never return to the same place that you left.

Response by SR Alpha Sandy made Nov 3 at 2021 8:56 PM

2021-11-03T20:56:55-04:00

I felt ecstatic! but anxious at the same time, depression set in after a few months because of all that I've seen and experienced, this was back in '06 when Bush was in office. i served from '04 -'06 (OIF) and so that was the beginning stages of OIF/OEF. I was nervous and my family were nervous for me. I was grateful to come home with no shame or guilt on how I was discharged. Yahweh guided me home.

Response by CW2 Darrell Newman made Nov 3 at 2021 9:02 PM

2021-11-03T21:02:46-04:00

I remember most the pain that I felt in my heart that my two young daughters did not instantly recognize me. It was like for a couple of agonizing seconds, they either did not know who I was, or just could not believe that I was actually there. Thankfully it was a very brief moment.

Response by PO2 Jenny Wu made Nov 3 at 2021 9:05 PM

2021-11-03T21:05:59-04:00

I just wanted to be alone. I appreciated the love and attention everyone was giving, but I really didn't want to answer questions. It felt more comfortable being around people who were deployed with me. We didn't have to say anything. We could just chill, have some good food and a nice cold beer.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2021 9:19 PM

2021-11-03T21:19:19-04:00

I felt great. In Iraq, I was basically confined to a base. Limited freedom of movement. When I arrived back secure my car, I just rode around for hours just enjoying the freedom of moving around place to place.

Response by PO2 Gary Campbell made Nov 3 at 2021 9:59 PM

2021-11-03T21:59:33-04:00

I remember coming back from first deployment and everything feeling brand new again. Wearing regular clothes and visiting friends again was like I was reborn. I remember too how weird it was to drive my car again after not doing do for 6 months. I took a few trips around the parking lot to make sure I knew what was doing lol. The overwhelming sense of accomplishment I felt too is one I’ll never forget. It was one of the highlights of my career.

Response by PO3 Marijo Cole made Nov 3 at 2021 10:15 PM

2021-11-03T22:15:48-04:00

I fight demons. I'm working on getting a psychiatrist through the VA. My main focus, is getting my husband back on track first. I keep fighting through my demons from the service.

Response by CPL Edward Krushenski made Nov 3 at 2021 10:21 PM

2021-11-03T22:21:59-04:00

I felt out of place, as if I didnt belong here anymore. I felt alone, and still do.

Response by PO2 Doug Young made Nov 3 at 2021 10:35 PM

2021-11-03T22:35:23-04:00

Even though the Vietnam issue was basically over, there was none of the “thank you for your service”. I still shy away from people when they say that. I didn’t do my time for a thank you. I did it during a time when a lot of people decided it was the right thing to do. Also, I wanted to get away from home and test my ability to work and learn. Travel was high on the to-do list.

Response by Sgt David Donnelly made Nov 3 at 2021 10:36 PM

2021-11-03T22:36:15-04:00

It was odd coming back and going home. Kinda like a dream state that lasted for weeks. People were talking about all the things they saw on TV but we didn’t see any of that for 8 months. We only experienced what was going on in our units. It took a while to acclimatize to civilization again and learn to relax and let your guard down.

Response by PO3 Samantha Perez made Nov 3 at 2021 10:45 PM

2021-11-03T22:45:26-04:00

I was so young when I was in the military because I joined right out of high school. I went on 2 deployments and I was attached to the aircraft carrier the Ronald Reagan. Whenever I got back from sea I would always feel out of place at first! Always glad to be home and seeing my family, but some how disconnected. I would be shy around people I’ve known my whole life because I was so used to the 7 days a week 12 hour days. I grew accustomed to the people I saw daily, the people I lived with, the people that became my family. I would have to try and get used to having a phone because back in 2007 there was no point in having phone service for the 6 months on deployment! Hahaha I remember losing my phone at least twice after getting back because I would forget that I even had one! Coming back from deployment was always an adjustment for me. I go from having a military family I spend every waking moment with for 6 months to going back to a family that couldn’t relate to my experiences.

Response by A1C Joseph Copeland made Nov 3 at 2021 10:58 PM

2021-11-03T22:58:40-04:00

KISS THE RUNWAY DAWG

Response by Sgt Justin Nosenzo made Nov 3 at 2021 11:10 PM

2021-11-03T23:10:33-04:00

Much to my chagrin, I was never able to deploy because I got cut orders to a new command right before the deployment (needs of the Marine Corps). I was at least able to go on two detachments: got to support training in Wisconsin and California for several weeks. They were a lot of fun, but it would have been nice to get out of the country.

Response by SGT Kathleen Shannon made Nov 3 at 2021 11:19 PM

2021-11-03T23:19:16-04:00

It was rough coming home from deployment. There were all sorts of problems with my teenage son and his caregiver that boiled over the weekend of my units return, to involve law enforcement. Not exactly the warm homecoming I had in mind. After everything though it was a relief to back in my home, with my pets, friends and family.

Response by PO3 Kevin Wilson made Nov 3 at 2021 11:36 PM

2021-11-03T23:36:14-04:00

Very mixed emotions. Excitement to see family again and fearful, as the American public was not in favor of the Vietnam War.

Response by PO3 Jami Pereira made Nov 3 at 2021 11:38 PM

2021-11-03T23:38:57-04:00

Odd. Like you know things had happened that you don't know about. Songs came out. People got married or had a kid. Seeing kids was weird. I wanted to go back on deployment because everything felt off.

Response by SPC Nicole Jirtle made Nov 4 at 2021 12:07 AM

2021-11-04T00:07:18-04:00

To be honest, I felt..a bit repulsed when I returned from Iraq. Immediately following my deployment, I moved to Bloomington, IN and began attending classes at IU. The contrast between a war zone and an American college was more stark than I was prepared for; the trivial things my privileged classmates complained about- “problems” like the allowance they received from their parents not being generous enough- drove me insane. My peers appeared so oblivious and entitled to me I felt alienated and resentful. I eventually adjusted, and realized that all situations are subjective- if someone hasn’t experienced much adversity in their lives, it’s ultimately irrational and unkind to hold that against them. These days, I often remind myself to remain grateful for all the little things I’d taken for granted before Iraq- blessings like access to clean water, sidewalks, libraries, equal rights for women..I could go on for days. Deployment broadened my perspective on life more than any other experience I’ve had.

Response by A1C Markus Alfred made Nov 4 at 2021 12:16 AM

2021-11-04T00:16:28-04:00

I feel that I was a changed man being overseas really makes you appreciate the little things in life because those people over there are not as fortunate as people in America so when I got back home it made me a better man a better day and overall better person it made me appreciate just small things and I’m happy for it

Response by CDR Charles Buechele made Nov 4 at 2021 12:24 AM

2021-11-04T00:24:09-04:00

For me I it was a mixed bag. I was single and look forward to deployment. After I got married it was struggle to stay connected to the family

Response by SGT Bill Closs made Nov 4 at 2021 12:28 AM

2021-11-04T00:28:29-04:00

I was in the Army during Vietnam. When came home, I was tired and sad. Had to wear uniform to fly, each airport in the U.S. there were lots of protesters yelling, screaming words I would never use in public. Kicked by children, urine thrown at me.

When I finally got to Detroit Airport my dad and wife were waiting. The same things as other Airports and all I could think was the world had gone crazy.

But, being with great loving family and friends helped put all the bad into a box in the back of my brain, and forget for a while.

With passing time (I’m not 67), it’s less and less the box opens. Thank God For the VA, my friends and family remind me for the most part - were a loving people and only a Few bad.

Learned to deal with these memories are faded by love.

Response by SrA Thomas McClellan made Nov 4 at 2021 12:38 AM

2021-11-04T00:38:42-04:00

When I got back from deployment I had a hard time sleeping and the women I was dating I couldn't sleep with her for the longest time I was afraid I would hurt her with the nightmares I had, but with help from my pastor and communicating to her what I went thru I was able to at least lay in the same bed without fear of hurting her. I still have nightmares and jump and try to draw a weapon when I hear loud bangs but I still talk to my pastor and that is helping me.

Response by PO3 Freddie Drummer made Nov 4 at 2021 12:45 AM

2021-11-04T00:45:01-04:00

The First Time I felt Honor Courage and Commitment. I felt apart of something my life was something. One team One fight. It hurts that I haven't found a connection to anything in life since that. WHOO RaH

Response by SSgt Anthony Coppola made Nov 4 at 2021 12:48 AM

2021-11-04T00:48:09-04:00

A relief. You just know you're home when the aircraft lands and doors open.

Response by PV2 Cherish Allen made Nov 4 at 2021 12:51 AM

2021-11-04T00:51:41-04:00

I remember when I came back from deployment, I was lot more of an angry person than I have ever been in my entire life. While deployed we only had one soldier that didn't make it back with us; and we done a service in theatre. That undoubtedly the hardest thing I've ever had to do. Coming home after that had me feeling like I was lucky to still be here. BC the soldier who died was sitting where I was supposed to be when he was shot. Having that happen made me feel like the worst person in the world and like I didn't deserve to be here.

Response by SSG Stewart Ritchey made Nov 4 at 2021 1:05 AM

2021-11-04T01:05:17-04:00

Apprehension about finding a job to support my wife and family.

Response by PO2 John Drake made Nov 4 at 2021 1:06 AM

2021-11-04T01:06:50-04:00

Relief! Was so ready to get back to some sort of normality.

Response by SPC Daniel Dresen made Nov 4 at 2021 1:11 AM

2021-11-04T01:11:22-04:00

Let's see, my first deployment I returned home to discover my former roommate was a hoarder. Ever see the show hoarders? I always wondered how long it took to trash a place. A skilled hoarder can do it in 9 months. On top of that, my neighbor was selling drugs in my driveway so I volunteered for the next deployment. I ended up meeting someone before I deployed a second time but things didn't work out. I think after my 2nd deployment and having a place just to myself, I could finally breath... and it hit me, I was detached. I wanted nothing to do with anyone and barely left the apartment. It took me a week to finally walk 2 blocks to the store. I started talking with mental health and got back to my old job.

Response by SN DeAndre Loving made Nov 4 at 2021 1:14 AM

2021-11-04T01:14:30-04:00

Felt relieved to be back safe and sound around love ones

Response by TSgt Tomika Miller made Nov 4 at 2021 1:31 AM

2021-11-04T01:31:15-04:00

I was thankful to make it back home alive and well. I was glad to see my son, family, friends and be back at my church. It’s a blessing to wake up and see another day. I am grateful to God for keeping me safe.

Response by SSG Stewart Ritchey made Nov 4 at 2021 1:59 AM

2021-11-04T01:59:17-04:00

My first concern was finding a job to support my family. It was not easy in a small copper-mining town on strike, but something came through to hold us till I could get work in the nearest city. It wasn't easy there either, but Our Father In Heaven stabilized things for us in time. What more could you ask?

Response by SGT Darnell Mora made Nov 4 at 2021 3:36 AM

2021-11-04T03:36:12-04:00

The first time was whatever being single. The second with a family was a giant relief to come home

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 4:00 AM

2021-11-04T04:00:53-04:00

I felt amazing to be in the presence of my husband and my cat again. Those relaxing moments at home where it's quiet and familiar is something I learned to treasure and appreciate more after being down range away from them for months on end.

Response by CH (CPT) Charlie An made Nov 4 at 2021 5:13 AM

2021-11-04T05:13:55-04:00

Definitely, I was so happy and blissful to come home safely to be with my loving family members, church friends, and other US Army Fellow Chaplains friends. However, soon or later, the vivid and colorful memories from downrange experiences, and flashbacks keep chasing me no matter where I was going, what I was doing, even though I tried to avoid the repeated thinking of what I should have done in my earlier deployment. I was so sorry to those SM, who could not make home back safely. I was so ashamed that I was still living my life until these days and my fellow SM could not make it back home safely. But after 9 years all that effort of embracing my good and bad performance of my combat chaplain with 10th MTN 287 infantry battalion through my local VA medical help, my church members' hard prayer & helps, and my family members' non-stop loving and care for me, really had helped me to back the ministries that I loved to do in or out of Church system. Now I hope that I can utilize my good and bad experiences from my combat downrange to impact other fellow US Army personnel or veterans in positive ways so that they could embrace what they experienced in combat was nothing to do with their ability to save their fellow SMs or what they should have done more etc. We all were destined to be at the combat zone at that time whether we wanted to be there or not. And we all were trying our best to defend what we believe is justice and right. Now, I finally accepted what had happened in my Afghanistan deployment as just part of my life story. And I am just simply feeling relieved that the OEF war is over even though it did not end the way I had prayed about. what had happened in there was something that I could not comprehend in limited humanly understanding, it must be the divine meaning to it the big picture of How God touched our lives during our earthly time on this earth. Sincerely, and Respectfully, Former US Army Chaplain, Charlie An

Response by SPC Parvin Daneshvar made Nov 4 at 2021 5:24 AM

2021-11-04T05:24:25-04:00

I felt happy to be home and eager to do as much as possible towards achieving my education goals and preparing myself for a career outside of the military

Response by SGT Douglas Morton made Nov 4 at 2021 5:39 AM

2021-11-04T05:39:50-04:00

For myself I didn't understand how good it felt to return from war alive. Having your spouse and children welcome you is a amazing feeling. I say this because my second deployment turned for the worst. My Ex-wife left while I was deployed and to return home to no house and your children are gone is a horrible experience to encounter. A welcome home ceremony with a auditorium full of people but no one is there for you HURTS!!

Response by PFC Marianne Ludwig made Nov 4 at 2021 5:52 AM

2021-11-04T05:52:44-04:00

Coming home from deployment was a shock to the system. After being away for 3 years, the whole world seemed to have changed from the music to hairstyles to clothes to gadgets. Be gentle with yourself and give yourself time to settle in. Try not to make other major decisions for awhile. Lean on other veterans who know what you’re going through and after the first crush of family and friends coming around…limit your time with them and ease back into relationships. If you’re coming back to spouse and children, be sure they have support systems in place so they get help with transitioning into having you back. Kids aren’t used to you giving orders or discipline…spouse isn’t used to having to deal with your needs or schedule. It’s critical that you talk these things through.

Response by SFC Brandi Morales made Nov 4 at 2021 6:53 AM

2021-11-04T06:53:46-04:00

I can remember standing in formation and looking up to see my two boys and family. I had missed so many firsts and I was so excited to just hold them. I was just happy to be with them and home safe.

Response by SGT Jeremy Hunt made Nov 4 at 2021 7:01 AM

2021-11-04T07:01:22-04:00

Relieved. Nervous. Excited. But somewhere in the back of my head wanting to go again. The more time spent over seas the closer we got as a unit. We made the best of it and I’ll always remember the times spent in Afghanistan as good times. Even with everything that was going on during that time

Response by SGT John Goschka made Nov 4 at 2021 7:20 AM

2021-11-04T07:20:49-04:00

I was completely lost after returning home from Vietnam. I was lost and there was no help for my PTSD. When my parents met me at the airport my mother didn't recognize me. Through the rest of her lifetime she couldn't understand how much I had changed.

Response by SSgt Stephanie Howell made Nov 4 at 2021 7:28 AM

2021-11-04T07:28:17-04:00

When I came home from my deployment I did have a mixture of feelings. I felt a since of freedom. I was able to feel safe being stateside. I could wear my civilian clothes, let my hair down, sleep in my own bed, see my family, and go out with friends for a drink. But just many military members experience, I also came home to break up. My partner who was a civilian tried to use the power of attorney I had left him to sell my house while I was gone. Luckily I had only given him a copy and not the original POA. Since there was limited communication outlets at my remote deployed location, and the long duration of the deployment, he was convinced that I was being unfaithful. So he went to my work and told all my coworkers and supervisor that I was being unfaithful (which I wasn't), threatened suicide, and then charged up my credit cards, turned off all my utilities, and tried to sell my house! So I would say don't give general POA to anyone your not married to with rock solid foundation or your parents, maybe siblings. So I had a mixed bag when I got back. Great to be home, just had some things to deal with, but the situation showed me what kind of man he really was. Had I not gone, I might have married him, but I believe his character would have eventually been revealed.

Response by SGT Herman Yentz made Nov 4 at 2021 7:53 AM

2021-11-04T07:53:09-04:00

Retuning from an unaccompanied year long tour in Korea was far different from returning from Desert Storm. War changes you. It was surreal. At times I felt distant, lost in fleeting thoughts and memories. I didn’t feel like my marriage was ever the same again. It was so great to see the wife and son, but there seemed to be something missing. Maybe it was me?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 7:55 AM

2021-11-04T07:55:53-04:00

I felt completely useless and not needed. The void of being needed daily was gone. It seemed like my entire purpose for living was gone. I love my family but I was in a very bad place. The fast pace of being deployed was left empty and was never filled again.

Response by TSgt Debra Messina made Nov 4 at 2021 7:58 AM

2021-11-04T07:58:54-04:00

Didn't see combat, was in Germany during desert storm and on wait list to deploy. Kept family informed. Was nice when we were able to go home.

Response by CW5 Stephen Kurinij made Nov 4 at 2021 8:05 AM

2021-11-04T08:05:04-04:00

Peace. I’ll never forget the feeling I had that first day home after my first deployment to combat. All the officers met with our Battalion Commander that evening at the “O Club” for a drink. He asked me: “Steve, how does it feel to be home?” I said: “Good, but strange; this morning we were in the sandy miserable desert, and 12 hours later here we are in green lush Germany sitting and having a beer; it’s weird.” The Colonel just looked at me a little puzzled and smiled.

Response by SGT James Johnson made Nov 4 at 2021 8:12 AM

2021-11-04T08:12:11-04:00

As our return flight from Vietnam was approaching the San Francisco airport it became very quiet, no talking or chatting, an overwhelming eerily quiet exciting atmosphere engulfed us as everyone waited for the wheels to touch the runway. At the moment the wheels touched the runway we erupted in cheers and tears. I'll never forget the sweeping uncontrollable release as a years worth of emotion flooded my entire being.

Response by Sgt Ken Crouse made Nov 4 at 2021 8:13 AM

2021-11-04T08:13:20-04:00

After Saigon was evacuated (I was a member of the Marine Security Guard detachment assigned to the embassy in Saigon) we were offered an opportunity to return to CONUS and be reassigned to a unit based on our primary MOS. Having seen the treatment of returning vets - home was northern California so meant SFO - and a very rough understanding of the developing refugee crisis, I declined and received orders for Asmara, Eritrea (then still Ethiopia) in the early months of their civil war for independence. I remained overseas for another two years and when my contract ended, took a “European out” and left active duty from our embassy in Brussels rather than return stateside for release. I bumped around Ireland for a couple of weeks before returning home. Arrived back home, got a job, an apartment, etc but felt totally out of place…. Still have some of those same feelings (out of place / being different) more than 45 years later. Some of my best of times these days is when I get to share a meal or beer(s) with Marines I served with or when I travel back to SE Asia and bump around the beaches or hiking trails in Vietnam. There’s nearly a sense of dread getting back on the airplane to return home.

Response by Cpl Shawn S. made Nov 4 at 2021 8:26 AM

2021-11-04T08:26:28-04:00

In short, glad to be home or back on base. Some deployments went great and enjoyed the time where we were. Others, couldnt wait to leave.

Response by PO2 Jarrod Moore made Nov 4 at 2021 8:37 AM

2021-11-04T08:37:32-04:00

I know you probably want all good stuff, but not quite sure I really came back from the Desert. Every time I get in my truck, it feels like I am back on convoys. Guess I won't be getting a gift card. Lol.

Response by MAJ Jeff Coulter made Nov 4 at 2021 8:42 AM

2021-11-04T08:42:22-04:00

It was surreal. I was in an ad hoc unit in Afghanistan that ceased to exist when we left our FOB so I traveled back to home station as an individual. I didn’t know how to act without the fear of imminent death. It took me awhile to figure out how to be a husband again and how to be a part of a society that was completely oblivious to the pain and suffering that our warfighters were enduring daily in a place that no one cared about including those we were supposedly there to help and protect.

Response by SSG Leonard Harrell made Nov 4 at 2021 8:42 AM

2021-11-04T08:42:53-04:00

It was overwhelming at first but I was glad to be home!!!! No place like home

Response by SPC Patricia K. (Williams) Elliott made Nov 4 at 2021 8:50 AM

2021-11-04T08:50:06-04:00

My unit sent me on a six day deployment to Forbes Field in Topeka, Kansas. I don't remember the particulars but it was heart wrenching to leave my babies!! It was only six days and I realize that many here have done longer deployments and more often, but I was leaving a 15 month old and a 2 month old for the first time, it was horrible!! Did my time, mission accomplished, and headed home. It was the biggest thrill to get home and have my oldest son throw himself at me off the couch!! And when I saw my youngest, I swear he had grown 2 inches!! I was so happy to be home!!

Response by MAJ Matthew Thomas made Nov 4 at 2021 8:51 AM

2021-11-04T08:51:00-04:00

This was one of the greatest moments! The opportunity to see my spouse and children after being apart for 4, 8, 12, or 15 months (depending on the deployment). It was sometimes a little scary trying to reconnect with the kids because they were young for most of the deployments.

Response by SPC Sharon Wolfe made Nov 4 at 2021 9:00 AM

2021-11-04T09:00:50-04:00

I broke my femur in AIT so I was never deployed but coming back from basic training was exhilarating. My young children were happy to see me, but called me "sharon" I guess they had heard my hubby talking about "Sharon coming home". You feel different though, you have been torn down and built up again, and so there are some growing pains. Just be honest with your spouse that it will be an adjustment. We do have 2 sons that were deployed and returned a combined 11 times. So we have also talked about what returning actually felt like for them.

Response by LCDR Jt Greeno made Nov 4 at 2021 9:07 AM

2021-11-04T09:07:22-04:00

Mixed emotions -- Great to be back home with family, but the stand-down, and not flying for a while was disconcerting.

Response by SCPO Richard Flores made Nov 4 at 2021 9:15 AM

2021-11-04T09:15:54-04:00

It was a swirl of emotions. I was nervous, excited, and concerned a bit. Concerned that I would have to reintegrate with a new normal. You almost feel like a visitor for a bit

Response by SMSgt Katrina McIntosh made Nov 4 at 2021 9:19 AM

2021-11-04T09:19:21-04:00

Coming home from a deployment, and a remote tour, I felt nervous, like the first date. But once home for a week it was back to life as usual.

Response by SPC Roger Furtak made Nov 4 at 2021 9:22 AM

2021-11-04T09:22:05-04:00

I remember coming home and it just wasn't the same. I came home a completely different person and felt like a stranger in my own house and around my wife. Needless to say I didn't seek help for mental health issues until like 10 years later.

Response by CPL T.A. Nelson made Nov 4 at 2021 9:26 AM

2021-11-04T09:26:00-04:00

It has changed quite a bit since I was enlisted but I remember there being no one to greet me but my significant other. I had no idea that there wouldn't even be a military liaison to get me to the correct parties...

Response by SSG Stephinie Johnson made Nov 4 at 2021 9:28 AM

2021-11-04T09:28:19-04:00

I deployed 2006-2007 to Afghanistan. While deployed we kind of got used to spending nights in the bunkers due to constantly being attacked, having lights out on missions due to the need for protection, having to walk a mile to pee or shower, and having lack of communication with family at home, among other things. Somehow we got complacent and these things became the norm. Coming home was thought to be a relief, but I did not realize how to let my guard down. Reacting to mufflers, fireworks, and nearly collapsing I saw folded flags. My great uncle who was a Veteran passed a few months after I returned home. His funeral was a military funeral and I almost did not make it. Coming home was more complicated than I anticipated and I really didn't have anyone to talk about it with. Not everyone I deployed with shared my experiences and some never faced any combat, been near bombings, or had a true sense of fear exposure. Being a female, I got brushed off due to not being in certain MOS's but that did not take away how I felt. After deployment, I was working mob and demob for others going on or returning from deployment. Somehow at the end of my year in that position, I felt more relief.

Response by Cpl Jeff Burns made Nov 4 at 2021 9:48 AM

2021-11-04T09:48:38-04:00

To be honest, I was happy to return back safe, but was never whole. I left a piece of me there that even to this day so many years later I have never found. It was not the same when I returned, and I wish someone had been there to help me deal with that missing part. Now almost 30 years later, I have finally started down that road. I encourage those coming back to see that help to heal from whatever the brought back home. I know this is deep, but this is my prayer every time I read or hear about our troops being deployed

Response by SPC Jimmy Cooper made Nov 4 at 2021 9:57 AM

2021-11-04T09:57:05-04:00

Happy to be returning to my family, but disappointed in returning to my country. I was returning from Vietnam, and was told to be cautious while in the airport in uniform because someone may throw things on me. After I got home I avoided any conversation that would inform others where I had been. Never really got over the feeling of being rejected until the recent changes in how those serving are viewed. All is well God is good.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 9:57 AM

2021-11-04T09:57:21-04:00

A sense of relief and a greatly reduced tolerance for garrison BS.

Response by PVT Pedro Gutierrez made Nov 4 at 2021 9:57 AM

2021-11-04T09:57:58-04:00

After coming home it was hard, cause everyone had grownup moved away or gone their separate ways. Adjusting to civilian life was nerve racking not knowing the resources out there for veterans. But now I try to help family members who come back even older family members learn about the resources out there for veterans.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 9:58 AM

2021-11-04T09:58:42-04:00

I felt like.... I just did what was expected of me.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 9:59 AM

2021-11-04T09:59:56-04:00

Vacation!!!!!

Response by PO3 Broderick Hewlett made Nov 4 at 2021 10:02 AM

2021-11-04T10:02:27-04:00

As a new sailor in 02/03; this was a crazy experience upon returning home after being away for 7.6 months from a life that was the norm going on 21 yrs. I had to adjust to how some things were different, having to get familiar with driving again and enjoying seeing the faces of all the families upon our return.

Response by CPL Angelika Guilbe made Nov 4 at 2021 10:03 AM

2021-11-04T10:03:53-04:00

Happy but lonely. I was stationed in Hanau, Germany. I didnt have any family. It made me sad to see signs and loved ones ready to receive battle buddies, and went back to my barracks.

Response by MSG Steve Durrah made Nov 4 at 2021 10:11 AM

2021-11-04T10:11:57-04:00

Excited, scared, mad… a lot of different feelings. 25 and 30 years since 2 deployments and I am still not the same as before.

Response by SMSgt Robert Love made Nov 4 at 2021 10:22 AM

2021-11-04T10:22:06-04:00

At first I felt elated to be coming home, but what I thought would be a wonderful experience did not turn out that way. What I thought it was supposed to be was like what our WWII vets must've experienced when they came home... jubilation, warm hugs and kisses, and a sense of accomplishment. Instead, I felt none of that. We, as a nation, found out our invasion of Iraq was based on false information, I witnessed many flag-draped coffins being loaded on C130s, and I wondered if it was all necessary. After three days of traveling from Iraq to Qatar, Norfolk, VA, and finally to Omaha, NE, I arrived at the airport around midnight, the airport was empty, and my wife, at the time, wasn't even there to meet me. I felt exhausted, worn-out, and abandoned. I had to take a taxi from the airport to my base, and I couldn't feel any more alone. All that made me question if anything I did in life was really worth it. To this day, I still have challenges feeling like nothing mattered and I'm not worth anything.

Response by Sgt William Meiers made Nov 4 at 2021 10:35 AM

2021-11-04T10:35:27-04:00

The hardest thing for me is that others thought they knew what it was like and really had no idea. Unless you are there and did and saw what I did, you would never know. Don't be afraid to talk to people, tell them what you want or can, but don't snap if they think they understand. Just try and talk and explain what you can. If they don't understand that is fine, and will normally be the case. My best advice it talk to another veteran or military brother or sister. They will understand, and I am sure have gone through what you have.

Response by CPL Stephanie Lyle made Nov 4 at 2021 10:36 AM

2021-11-04T10:36:42-04:00

I was on deployment twice. First to Somalia and second to Haiti. Coming home from Somalia was the hardest thing I've ever done. Before I left my husband had a nervous breakdown and I had to activate my family care plan. My oldest sister took my four girls, youngest being 6 months, for the duration. When I came home my baby was a year old and didn't know who I was. I broke me in ways that the deployment hadn't. I later found out my sisters husband had abused my daughters and she was high on drugs most of my deployment. I kinda hated my husband for not being there for our daughters. The very next year the 10th mtn went to Haiti. It was this big political hoopla. At the time it had come to the foreground that there were females in the aviation brigade who were crew chiefs on the helicopters. We were suddenly in the media and our husband's were these pariahs being stay at home dads and husbands. The whole time we were gone my husband was doing interviews and shows. When I came home I had a news camera shoved in my face when I was trying to hug my family. It made me mad as hell. With both deployments I had to reintegrate into family life which is harder than you would think and took months. I was proud of my service during both and would do it again if needed.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 10:42 AM

2021-11-04T10:42:02-04:00

Every return was different for me because so many things happened each time. My hardest was my second deployment because I lost a lot of friends and I was getting married very soon after my return. Trying to cope with loss and show joy was very hard. I also had Survivors Guilt which didn't make it any easier and I had to keep reminding myself that I need to live my life for those that couldn't, and to honor their memories. No one in my family, or new family, had ever served, or deployed for that matter, and trying to get them to understand what I was going through was very difficult. We definitely had some differences of opinion when it came to priorities or what was important. The "best" thing that ever happened to me was that I was talking to my fiancée on the phone and we started getting mortared. She heard the calm in my voice as I was issuing orders (and saying goodbye but trying not to have her worry). She finally started to understand that I was really in something and her whole mindset changed. Needing space when I returned was hard to explain and thinking things were too slow back home was hard to deal with too. So much easier when everything is "Go, Go, Go!".

Response by CMC Alex Webb made Nov 4 at 2021 10:43 AM

2021-11-04T10:43:01-04:00

Relieved to get some time to not be responsible for anyone at work.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 10:55 AM

2021-11-04T10:55:30-04:00

As a single person, returning from the war felt like the return to normal life. My family (parents, siblings) didn't know I was back or returning, so no loving greetings or phone calls. I went back to the barracks and picked up where I left off.

Response by SSgt Raymond Belden made Nov 4 at 2021 11:00 AM

2021-11-04T11:00:07-04:00

Just relief coming back state side. It was good to see so many families welcoming back their loved ones. One Sergeant's family even made a giant banner. For me, the return was bitter sweet since there wasn't anyone there to welcome me back both times I deployed.

Response by CW4 Mark Hebenstreit made Nov 4 at 2021 11:00 AM

2021-11-04T11:00:33-04:00

I came home from my first deployment to OIF in 2003. While going through the demobilization process at Ft. McCoy, Wisconsin, my senses picked up on something when outside yet it took me a while to figure it out. It was hearing leaves rustle in the wind. That, along with green grass and trees just filed my senses after being in the desert for so many months.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 11:07 AM

2021-11-04T11:07:21-04:00

Coming home is the hardest part, it's a whole new world. You've changed and not only you but everyone around you has to adjust back to the normal life. You will never be the same no matter where you deploy, if it's combat you will always leave part of yourself there. The brothers who didn't make it back and the ghosts that haunt your dreams.

Response by SGT Carl Watson made Nov 4 at 2021 11:09 AM

2021-11-04T11:09:14-04:00

Bad and cheated because I was just released from jail after a court martial ruling which found me guilty for going AWOL but discharged. I was not allowed to get any of my things in the company as I was lied to that my things would be sent to my address. I am now filing to have my discharge ungraded after fifty years. My psychiatrist asked the Army to discharge me a year before my arrest, arrest and trial yet that that was ignored as I was punished because I accepted the offer. Finally I was not sent back home because I had placed a change of address just to have things mailed to my sister's so I received enough money to my sister's two thousands miles from home.

Response by PO2 Charity Keller made Nov 4 at 2021 11:13 AM

2021-11-04T11:13:35-04:00

I was lucky I serve on two ships but did not have to do a med cruise

Response by MSgt Mike Ash made Nov 4 at 2021 11:15 AM

2021-11-04T11:15:33-04:00

I always felt especially proud of being an American when I returned from both. On the flip side, I was always amazed (continue to be after many, many years) at how nonchalant (unknowing? unappreciative?) too many of our citizens were for being lucky enough to live in the greatest country on earth - far from perfect, but the best of the rest.

Response by PO2 Katrina Dang made Nov 4 at 2021 11:18 AM

2021-11-04T11:18:20-04:00

so weird, seeing my daughter after 18 mos away from her.

Response by PO3 Meg O made Nov 4 at 2021 11:20 AM

2021-11-04T11:20:49-04:00

I distinctly remember flying back to Washington state from a connecting flight from the Atlanta airport after being deployed on a carrier for most of 2018...there were people swarming all around me, and I felt strangely disconnected from my body, from society even. For most of that year, I had been part of a small community on a ship, isolated from the rest of the world by water all around us. It was completely surreal, and unlike anything I'd ever felt in my life. I felt like I'd been ripped from a close-knit family and thrown in among a bunch of privileged strangers in an airport who probably couldn't even fathom being uncomfortable or making the sort of sacrifices people in the military make every single day, and every time they deploy.

Response by Cpl David Langford made Nov 4 at 2021 11:30 AM

2021-11-04T11:30:01-04:00

Relief, sadness, joy, thankfulness, humbled. Battle tested.

Response by SN Ian L made Nov 4 at 2021 11:43 AM

2021-11-04T11:43:06-04:00

I felt like life passed me by :/

Response by SFC JaMes Waters made Nov 4 at 2021 11:57 AM

2021-11-04T11:57:21-04:00

I had deployments with two different spouses, my first deployment I felt alone. We flew into Ft Benning, GA lay in the evening, had a five minute speech from the post Commander and then was placed on a 96 hour pass. I had to find my own way to Atlanta, GA airport, costing me the $100 cash I had on hand, for the taxi ride just to miss my flight. 6:30 the next morning I started my flight to Cincinnati, Oh in dead silence the whole trip because I was still in my desert fatigues, once we arrived I was one of four soldiers that was escorted off the plane first. Just so happened that my mother in-law came to pick me up, she was screaming her head off, which made me feel embarrassed. I didn’t feel normal until I could get out of my uniform, so we stopped at a mall and did some shopping. I didn’t get to see my wife until the next day, and the first thing she asked me for was a divorce. What a welcome home from Desert Shield/Desert Storm.
In 2004 I was deployed Bosnia Herzegovina, I wasn’t suppose to go on that deployment, but the CG asked for me to be his Supply Sergeant because of the pre deployment inventories I did on his task force inventories. With 3 feet of snow on the ground leaving Bosnia, my trip was somewhat better than my return from Desert Shield/Desert Storm. I was met with open arms of my second wife and my son after being gone for a year, on top of that I had my wife’s blessing to go on the Mobilization since the CG requested my present on the mob. I will have to give MG Wright credit, he didn’t have to ask, but he did, and to show his appreciation he had coffee with me every Tuesday morning just to check up on me.

Response by SSgt Joshua Strick made Nov 4 at 2021 12:13 PM

2021-11-04T12:13:29-04:00

It was relief. Not because of the deployment, but the relief that my family was safe and I was home once again to take care of them. I was never worried about being deployed, but I always stressed not being home in case something happened to my wife or kids and I couldn't be there for them. Coming home, it was easy to cry in relief knowing that I was within reach of my family just in case.....

Response by Cpl Jonathan Tomaszewski made Nov 4 at 2021 12:23 PM

2021-11-04T12:23:45-04:00

Being able to experience the world and how it actually functions compared to the daily lives of the people I left in the rear left me disconnected from them when I came home. I would adjust appropriately when on leave but there was no longer a feeling of home or as strong of a connection with everyone there.

Response by SPC Brian Brown made Nov 4 at 2021 12:24 PM

2021-11-04T12:24:42-04:00

After my first deployment I was on top of the world. I thought everyone understood what I had been through. I was wrong. So so very wrong. I was alone and could not wait to just go back over, despite being with my loved ones. Eventually everything calmed down and I adjusted. I deployed a second time not long after, but on the return trip I understood what everyone else’s perspective of me was and I was able to understand theirs. I still have mixed feelings to this day and 20/20 hindsight is the best vision I never had, but I grew from it.

Response by PO2 Brittany King made Nov 4 at 2021 12:25 PM

2021-11-04T12:25:23-04:00

I was never deployed for a long time, I was only on short 'fast cruises' during my time. I will say coming home after discharge was weird to adjust to civilian life.

Response by CPL Jason Blackwood made Nov 4 at 2021 12:41 PM

2021-11-04T12:41:43-04:00

When I was deployed to Iraq it was such a relief and an awesome experience to get to fly home for Christmas.

Response by CMSAF Eric Stephens made Nov 4 at 2021 12:43 PM

2021-11-04T12:43:02-04:00

Coming home from my early deployments where there wasn't much excitement was nice and I really loved the welcome home I always received. Coming home from Afghanistan was a much different experience. It takes a lot of getting used to when you experience some things in a hostile environment. I ensured I did not isolate myself and continue to have those great friendships with the guys and girls I deployed with. FYI the welcome home from OEF was the best!

Response by SP5 Sara DuBois made Nov 4 at 2021 12:57 PM

2021-11-04T12:57:20-04:00

I hav never served in a war, but I was apart of natural disasters in the United States. I assisted the hurricane that flooded the Florida Key West, and it was miraculous how much water can destroy someone’s livelihood. Coming home is emotional because family and friends expect you to be safe and return safe. However, the events that took place that no one was able to see, you have seen and it takes a life of its own. People portray events in a negative or positive way cognitively. You start to think of yourself as grateful for everything around you, and still having the things you left.

Response by Sgt Alvin Dalisay made Nov 4 at 2021 1:01 PM

2021-11-04T13:01:54-04:00

At first it felt strange being able to go somewhere and drive your own car but at the same account I felt that I contributed to the mission (Sept. 2001).

Response by Cpl William Stilwagen made Nov 4 at 2021 1:25 PM

2021-11-04T13:25:24-04:00

Back home in Oceanside, NY I had to figure out what I would do with the rest of my life. I was still reeling psychologically, not so much outwardly, but inwardly from my sudden transformation from being a Marine in Vietnam back to being a Civilian in the States. In the Marine Corps I had awesome responsibilities, which sometimes could literally mean life or death. Now I had no responsibilities – at least none nearly as important as before.

When I arrived home, my family had a party for me. It was great to see everyone again, but something was amiss. Conversation was strained. It occurred to me later that no one had even mentioned the word “Vietnam.” All talk was about other, happier things.

Approximately 20 years later, I mentioned the party in a seminar when a student asked about my homecoming. My sister was a guest in the class that day. She told me later that back then everyone had wanted to ask me about the war, but they were afraid to ask, because they were unsure how I would react. It shocked and hurt me to learn that my family had been afraid of me and were fearful about how I would respond when questioned about my experiences in the war. I guess the war had changed them as well.

I had needed to talk. There was no counseling or therapy for veterans back then. There was no debriefing by the military upon return from the war. 'Here’s your separation papers, goodbye.' We were told to forget it, to put it behind us, and to get on with our lives. So, I tried. But the fog in my mind, the surreal glimpses of my war experiences, would not let me rest. The obscure events surrounding the seemingly endless day-to-day drudgery in the war, were always slapped away by horrific events that would just not leave my mind.

In Vietnam, my past life was a dream, like it never happened. The war became my life. It became my everything. I accepted it and kept moving on, kept doing my job, kept trying to stay alive. I had enlisted in the Marine Corps to serve my country. But in the fight, no one thinks ‘I’m doing this for America.’ Your conscious thoughts are of keeping yourself and your buddies alive. Your sole purpose is to kill or drive off the enemy for your friends.

Then suddenly, the war was my past life and it was like a dream, like it never happened. My original life had returned, but it had been turned upside down. Friends in Vietnam were who I fought alongside. I would give my life for them, and they for me. Surely, old friends from home could be depended on, as well.

No such luck. I was ostracized by most of my old high school friends. They were either embarrassed they hadn’t served in the military or they didn’t want to be around someone who did. Perhaps they felt I was no longer the old Bill Stilwagen they once knew. Maybe I was the new Bill Stilwagen who was now old. Their idea of fun was to sit in someone’s basement, smoke dope, and watch Sesame Street. I was perplexed and disgusted that this was as far as they had come in their suburban, privileged lives, content with someone else sacrificing on their behalf.

I was never spat upon or called baby-killer. I was just shunned. That hurt most of all. I no longer fit where I used to fit.

Response by Cpl Alberto Vargas made Nov 4 at 2021 1:30 PM

2021-11-04T13:30:58-04:00

Coming back home from war was an anxious but exciting feeling, knowing that I would finally see all my love ones again. I knew that being deployed had them very concerned for my safety and my safe arrival would end some of their concern. I also had some anxiety not knowing how I would cope after being gone for over a year and being involved in so many traumatic situations. Having the support of my family and fiends along with fellow veterans help the my transition back to civilian life. Without that support am not sure what would have become of me. I thank all the support that this country and the VA has for our veterans.

Response by SPC Jesse Johnson made Nov 4 at 2021 1:44 PM

2021-11-04T13:44:54-04:00

I actually felt like I didn't belong in the neighborhood anymore it was a strange feeling.

Response by Sgt Timothy Gassman made Nov 4 at 2021 1:49 PM

2021-11-04T13:49:06-04:00

Returning from Afghanistan in 2014, I felt like I had a newfound appreciation for all of the conveniences. It was the most wonderful thing to be able to hop in a car and drive to an In-&-Out or to go see a movie. I found beauty in the most mundane of things, like green grass.

Response by PFC Norman Gay made Nov 4 at 2021 1:53 PM

2021-11-04T13:53:41-04:00

I was happy to go home. I missed my family and friends. I was discharged in January and I met a girl at the end of March. We got married 6 weeks later and have been married for 38 years. We have 7 children, 17 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.

Response by SPC Matthew Williamson made Nov 4 at 2021 2:06 PM

2021-11-04T14:06:34-04:00

I was always relieved to be coming back to land of the free after being deployed in the war zone. However, there was always anxiety about the lack of organization back in the US. After living such a routine based, discipline lifestyle, returning home always seemed chaotic for a good while after my return.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 2:07 PM

2021-11-04T14:07:09-04:00

Happy to be home but it felt like I walked into a party where everyone was just talking about me. That awkward silence like I didn't actually belong.

Response by SFC Michael Elam made Nov 4 at 2021 2:15 PM

2021-11-04T14:15:04-04:00

weird, like you were living two life's

Response by SP5 Tom Lerche made Nov 4 at 2021 2:19 PM

2021-11-04T14:19:46-04:00

I was stuck in the past tense after I came back from Nam, replaying in my mind every incident and near miss and painful memories. But when I came back the civilians were living their own lives with virtually no interest in what I had gone through or what I was going through being back in the US. If someone did ask what I went through, they wanted nothing more than a short response and then went on to talking about themselves, which was almost more painful than not being asked.

Response by SSG Terence Walker made Nov 4 at 2021 2:29 PM

2021-11-04T14:29:22-04:00

Coming home after a military deployment felt great. I knew it would take some adjustments. I missed my family even though we stayed in contact through various medias. I really enjoyed reconnecting with family and friends after being away for so long. The changes and routines I had to get use to but just being with your love one made it easy.

Response by SSG Terence Walker made Nov 4 at 2021 2:30 PM

2021-11-04T14:30:01-04:00

Response by SSG Terence Walker made Nov 4 at 2021 2:30 PM

2021-11-04T14:30:38-04:00

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 2:50 PM

2021-11-04T14:50:21-04:00

I had mixed feelings for sure. Of course I was happy to see family and friends again, but I had no career, no relationship, and no home. I tried to get another deployment to have some direction, but that didn't work out. Eventually I got it figured out, but there were months of frustration...

Response by LTC Erby Montgomery made Nov 4 at 2021 2:55 PM

2021-11-04T14:55:52-04:00

A sense of alienation…..the world I came back to was not real, the real world was the one I left in Iraq

Response by Amn Lawrence Oleary made Nov 4 at 2021 3:08 PM

2021-11-04T15:08:22-04:00

Alone, viloated, insulted
Viet Nam Vet

Response by SrA Larry Gray made Nov 4 at 2021 3:08 PM

2021-11-04T15:08:36-04:00

Like the new guy all over again. So many new people in the unit who had settled in while we were gone and thought they ran stuff.

Response by PO1 Joseph Barra made Nov 4 at 2021 3:10 PM

2021-11-04T15:10:49-04:00

After my second combat tour to Iraq I had the honor of coming home on advanced party. We arrived back home at 0 dark thirty; no welcome party, no fanfare. 7 of us from the battalion, met by our Major who gave us a couple of beers and the next day off. May seem simple and bland but stepping on US soil after 7 months of hell, a cold beer and a day off was all that I could ask for. Ever grateful just to be home.

Response by SGT Fred Carney made Nov 4 at 2021 3:14 PM

2021-11-04T15:14:03-04:00

Coming home from Viet Nam was a surreal experience. I wasn’t sure I even wanted to go home to my wife, my eight-month old daughter I had never seen, and my family. I knew I wasn’t the same person that had left them. The Army had taken my uniform and I was once again in civilian clothes. I had served proudly and bravely in uniform but now I was just an ordinary American in ordinary clothing. It was as if my identify had been altered. The crowd of family at the airport, all with welcome signs, was something I rather expected but dreaded at the same time. My senses had been scarred by a not-too-distant attack, a rocket, a borage of mortar rounds. I wasn’t ready to make the adjustment to a safe environment. I endured the family greeting and was determined to bring my life back to something considered normal. I eventually became a husband, a Dad, returned to my civilian job and became a responsible member of society. For years though, a siren, a loud blast or a helicopter flying overhead would take my mind, and my senses, back to Viet Nam. Fifty three years later The memories, feelings, and images remain.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 3:19 PM

2021-11-04T15:19:15-04:00

I felt excited, confused, anxious, and so much more

Response by Cpl Kevin Shanahan made Nov 4 at 2021 3:21 PM

2021-11-04T15:21:02-04:00

I felt completely fine and it wasn't until a few years later I began to realize how fucked up I was. If people tell you you're different don't dismiss it, don't get pissy, just acknowledge their concerns and explain that you are still adjusting. Some of it gets better with time, the anger lessons in frequency but not degree. Talk to some professionals because everything you just did in combat is no longer acceptable in civilian life. Shits hard but you will make it through to the other side. It's a fight everyday but when have we ever given up on a fight.

Response by SPC Hakeem Britt made Nov 4 at 2021 3:22 PM

2021-11-04T15:22:02-04:00

Excited, like i haven't seen my home in years

Response by CPT Ramona Toussaint made Nov 4 at 2021 3:26 PM

2021-11-04T15:26:16-04:00

I felt out of place which was such a weird feeling. I thought that I would have felt relieved to be back in the states, but honestly I felt burdened. I did not want to meet with my family or close friends… I just wanted to stay local. I started developing signs and symptoms of PTSD without even knowing it.

Response by CPL Morris Jaskula made Nov 4 at 2021 3:28 PM

2021-11-04T15:28:19-04:00

I felt lost!--Army basically said go back to your previous life--they never said a word about Agent Orange Poisoning. I was sprayed for 14 months in Nam. Nobody ever said a word about SURVIVORS GUILT and how to deal with it ,nothing about PTSD. We were just a bunch of disposables.
I left Nam in Dec 1969 and wound up with A.O.P in 2001--my second wife INSISTED I get my PSA done--my number jumped from 4 to 7--the Dr. wanted me back in 30 days--he did another test and my number wert to 10--he said I was A WALKING DEAD MAN BUT HADENT FALLEN OVER YET---
The happy kid that got on the plane in Oct 68 NEVER CAME HOME.

Response by PO1 Francis Bulfamante made Nov 4 at 2021 3:30 PM

2021-11-04T15:30:31-04:00

Relieved. I was happy to be home, safe.

Response by SP5 Melanie Cantu made Nov 4 at 2021 3:30 PM

2021-11-04T15:30:47-04:00

Just take it easy… when coming home you must allow yourself to umwinde and get used to home again. For any issues, seek help as soon as you can! Don’t let the feelings you push down compound. Seek counseling! Otherwise you may lose your family in the process!

Response by PO3 Theresa Evans made Nov 4 at 2021 3:52 PM

2021-11-04T15:52:46-04:00

Honorable and Proud

Response by SSG Michael Jenkins made Nov 4 at 2021 4:19 PM

2021-11-04T16:19:54-04:00

Coming home from a deployment is a roller coster of emotions. You are happy to be home, happy to be back with your family, but thw adjustment can be hard and take some time to get used to.

Response by Capt Sylvia DeBorger made Nov 4 at 2021 4:21 PM

2021-11-04T16:21:27-04:00

Happy to be home and ready for a lot of questions.

Response by PO3 Theresa Michelle made Nov 4 at 2021 4:40 PM

2021-11-04T16:40:23-04:00

Really disconnected. Aggravated that no one seemed to care. Took years to reflect on my experiences & expectations coming home. I remember feeling like my sacrifice was not appreciated so it felt very insignificant to me. I never talked about my deployment afterwards and to this day feel awkward bringing it up to people.

Response by MSgt Herman Ortiz made Nov 4 at 2021 4:41 PM

2021-11-04T16:41:33-04:00

I spent 23 years in the military and every time I got deployed, I looked forward to coming home. Once I did get home it took some time for things to get back to normal. My wife and daughter had their own routine. I felt like I didn't belong.

Response by SPC Dennis Danielson made Nov 4 at 2021 4:48 PM

2021-11-04T16:48:55-04:00

After a brief time on detail in Tirana, Albania when I returned to my base in Germany, I felt empty, confused, depressed, shameful, and forgotten.

Response by SN David Miller made Nov 4 at 2021 4:49 PM

2021-11-04T16:49:05-04:00

Coming home during the Vietnam era was disgraceful. I never put on the uniform again. I went to the VA to address a dental problem that was incurred during military service, and it was a BAD experience. The Battle Creek Michigan VA was dirty, and the patients in the hall were dirty and unkept; sitting unattended in soiled hospital gowns. I did not return to the VA for another 40 yrs. I returned to the VA during the Trump Administration and found the services greatly improved.

Response by Sgt Glenn Butler made Nov 4 at 2021 4:49 PM

2021-11-04T16:49:05-04:00

I felt reborn. I was a Marine in the Korean War in 1950. I was in combat for 5 months and twIce spent time in Hospitals in Japan from wounds. At first combat was like in a movie, then a little scary and finally I was fatalistic. I had about eight experiences where I escaped being wounded or killed. I was coming back to the USA and getting married to my high school sweetheart. The world went from black & white to technicolor.

Response by PO3 Charles Streich made Nov 4 at 2021 5:01 PM

2021-11-04T17:01:38-04:00

Came back from Nam Temp 142 landed at O'hare Chicago Jan 16, 1971 wind chill -80 below. I wasn't given all my medals cause of the protests spitting baby killers. Got home and had to turn on the furnace all the way up to 85 while I was cold and everyone was in shorts and t-shirts. It was so quite that I was used to rockets that I slept in a iron bath tub and my mother cried when she saw me there. I was going to get a job at a Gas Station and my brother said that there are a lot of robberys and shooting of attendants so I tell him that people have been trying to kill me for a year. After years at the VA I passed my Agent Orange Test, Hearing loss but want to give me a hearing aid now, PTSD etc. 180 percent disabled and settled for 100%

Response by SPC Edgar Jordan made Nov 4 at 2021 5:04 PM

2021-11-04T17:04:35-04:00

Felt real good

Response by PO2 Alan Floyd made Nov 4 at 2021 5:18 PM

2021-11-04T17:18:42-04:00

it was strange and bittersweet. sure to my position as engine room shutdown watch supervisor my team didn't get to leave until 1 or 2 hours after everyone else. the loved ones that came to welcome the ship were gone. there was no celebration. just an empty pier.

the hardest part to explain is that the friends left behind didn't stop living their lives. a lot happens in 6 months. it was hard getting to know close friends again. even worse, trying to fit in with the new friends they had made.

Response by PO3 Andrew Hoe made Nov 4 at 2021 5:41 PM

2021-11-04T17:41:31-04:00

Lonley

Response by Sgt Christopher Jackson made Nov 4 at 2021 5:44 PM

2021-11-04T17:44:38-04:00

I'll keep this brief.. I felt anxious and honestly addicted, like I needed to go back, I hated everything normal back state side.

Response by PO2 Dennis Newman made Nov 4 at 2021 5:50 PM

2021-11-04T17:50:41-04:00

Am I still a part of my family since each of family will be a little bit older, experienced more, grown & matured individually? Will relationships resume in step prior to departure or will require starting all over anew?

Response by CPL Larry Monkus made Nov 4 at 2021 5:51 PM

2021-11-04T17:51:03-04:00

just remember being very withdrawn and still am to this day

Response by SP5 Ivory Parker made Nov 4 at 2021 6:02 PM

2021-11-04T18:02:19-04:00

Coming home I felt alone and sad like no one could help me and the way I felt I fell into a depression that I have been climbing out ever since

Response by FN Simon Trejo made Nov 4 at 2021 6:28 PM

2021-11-04T18:28:02-04:00

It is a feeling of self fulfillment knowing you are protecting the ones you love, while out at sea. Then being rewarded by coming home to them awesome feeling

Response by CPL David Brown made Nov 4 at 2021 6:34 PM

2021-11-04T18:34:52-04:00

Was drafted 1969 returned from Vietnam 1971. Ft Lewis WA. Plane touched down I saw a large crowd at the airport. I had no idea they were protesters. Had my steal dinner then processed out of military.
As I was going to airport I was all dressed up with paratrooper badge boots and all my medals including Bronze Star.
A soldier stopped me and asked? ARE YOU GOING TO WEAR THAT UNIFORM?
I said yes, why you ask? Those are protesters at the airport. They will call you baby killer and more verbal abuse. I would advise you to take off that uniform, and wear civilian clothes home. How do you think I felt? About coming home from Viet Nam

Response by SFC Donald Mulder made Nov 4 at 2021 6:48 PM

2021-11-04T18:48:34-04:00

Lost.. Truly lost.

Response by SMSgt K J made Nov 4 at 2021 6:49 PM

2021-11-04T18:49:59-04:00

When I returned home from my deployments I couldn’t wait to go back. The action almost every evening was addictive. Being back home had no danger, no heavy drinking, no fear of losing your life or the taking of an enemies life.
My temper was short and I would snap at anything/anyone I couldn’t control. I knew what I was doing was wrong but I just wouldn’t stop myself. I really hoped I would just deploy one more time and go out in a bang.

Response by SSgt Donaldsmith Smith made Nov 4 at 2021 7:07 PM

2021-11-04T19:07:16-04:00

I am grateful for what the VA did for me regarding PTSD and that's why I am trying to give back with my volunteer work with other Vietnam veterans who have and are suffering from PTSD and similar mental health issues. Fifty years ago we were just boys. and relating to these guys has been a major event in my life. There was so much to synthesize and accept from that period in my life. Today, I attend VA peer groups and I am a resource for other veterans to navigate the VA system..I care deeply for those I served with during the Vietnam War. SSGT Donald F. Smith/Information Technician/72171/Combat News Reporter/Photographer/ Bier Hoa Air Base South Vietnam

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 7:09 PM

2021-11-04T19:09:18-04:00

Overwhelmed. Uncomfortable in my own skin. I came home with my family and boyfriend at the time and after they spent the night, I had to ask everyone to leave so I could gather my thoughts and my cat. I cried a lot and wanted so badly for my unit to call me up and say "we need to go back".
We came bac in November so Thanksgiving was right around the corner. I was doing fine until everyone showed up at my sister's house and I had a sudden wave of anxiousness. I had to go outside for a bit and just try and understand what these feelings were... I remember looking at my Grandpa who had been in WWII and thinking 'if he can be here and do thos after 4 years of combat and deployment, so can I.' It took a good several months before I felt "normal" again.

Response by SrA Leah Drenning made Nov 4 at 2021 7:18 PM

2021-11-04T19:18:18-04:00

Grateful. Very grateful to live in the beautiful and FREE country we call home.

Response by SFC Leo Sharpe made Nov 4 at 2021 7:21 PM

2021-11-04T19:21:33-04:00

Relieved but sad to not be around my team

Response by PO2 James Hampson made Nov 4 at 2021 7:24 PM

2021-11-04T19:24:31-04:00

It was the greatest feeling in the world.

Response by SFC Dennis Reabold made Nov 4 at 2021 7:28 PM

2021-11-04T19:28:52-04:00

Excitement to get the heck back home! Had no issues adapting back as husband and father. Take things slow; rest, relax, and slowly adapt back into the family. Talk with your spouse to get caught back up on anything you missed. Deployments have gotten so much easier in staying in touch with your family via internet and video chat...

Response by MSG Robert Newsome made Nov 4 at 2021 7:40 PM

2021-11-04T19:40:32-04:00

After serving 4 yrs during the period of 1967-1971, we were advised not to wear our uniform in airports, train station or even in public. This was due to war protests and the dislikes of military personnel by the some of the public. It was not a proud time to be a veteran. I felt proud to have served but disappointed about the reception. To this day I am extremely proud to have served during that period.

Response by CPL Robert Dalton made Nov 4 at 2021 7:42 PM

2021-11-04T19:42:34-04:00

Mixed bag is an understatement. I was happy to be coming home and excited about seeing my family again but also very scared and anxious about it. I didn't feel like I belonged anymore. And my family even described me as being totally different from what I was before I left. I was just shy of being a stranger. Things are better with the family but nothing else has changed much.

Response by A1C Margaret Hall made Nov 4 at 2021 7:44 PM

2021-11-04T19:44:04-04:00

I was on the receiving end of my husband coming home. He didn't talk a lot but he seemed to be relieved to be home. He was deployed A LOT during the beginning of the desert conflicts (power guy). He always got two weeks off after returning and I would just let him sleep late and would fix his favorite meals. Oh, and our two girls were "deployment babies" if that says anything. (LoL) I was only too happy for him to get an assignment out of a mobility unit. He, thankfully, spent his last eight years in chained to a desk. Not his ideal because he worked with a lot of brass but I was only too happy to have him close to home.

Response by Amn Warren Brown made Nov 4 at 2021 7:48 PM

2021-11-04T19:48:48-04:00

It was depressing; I ended up right back at my mom's house, starting over again with no idea what I was going to do or how I was going to pay for things

Response by SP5 Erica Miller made Nov 4 at 2021 7:50 PM

2021-11-04T19:50:43-04:00

I kissed the ground, I was thankful enough to be home. There was still fear, worry and excitement in those feelings, above all, I was relieved to no longer be in a physical hell. To my dismay mental and emotional hell followed and took me several years to dig myself out of that. Still there are days that I forget/need a reason for living but I am reminded it is not up to me- that at least on those days I can do something good for another being (dogs help)and that has to be enough on that day to keep me pushing into the next.

Response by 1LT David Webster made Nov 4 at 2021 7:52 PM

2021-11-04T19:52:35-04:00

Returning from Vietnam in 1968 was a relief, I survived Hue and Tet, Khe Shan, and Asha Valley with none of the people I was responsible for hurt physically. I had the attitude that I was invisible and in destructible and life in the world was a piece of cake. I shared my experiences and many slides of the actions I experienced at several public venues. I was greeted with questions about the morality of my actions. In one instance a local judge help me escape the confrontation before I wasted anyone. I had my share of family and friends showing pride is my service and that was gratifying. I was released from active duty and attended grad school where I confronted anti war demonstrators. I have many questions to this day.

Response by SGT Ray Wilner made Nov 4 at 2021 8:02 PM

2021-11-04T20:02:56-04:00

Sometimes it was just great to get away. Other times it was a new opportunity.

Response by PO3 Paul Scheel made Nov 4 at 2021 8:10 PM

2021-11-04T20:10:36-04:00

Sad not hearing from home for 2 months
And get home they forgot we were returning
I walked 5 miles home to find someone in my bed

Response by LCpl Michael David made Nov 4 at 2021 8:14 PM

2021-11-04T20:14:50-04:00

Lost, scared, overwhelmed. Combat and deployments have a way of making life more real. Living in a bubble in America makes you see how the rest of the world is. How people really struggle, what truly make those with nothing happy. Seeing what we take for granted here is nothing compared to most of the world.

Response by PO2 Jw Chadwick made Nov 4 at 2021 8:21 PM

2021-11-04T20:21:16-04:00

Left Behind, and very hard to catch up with family, friends.

Response by PO2 Sasha Martin made Nov 4 at 2021 8:26 PM

2021-11-04T20:26:33-04:00

Returning home from a deployment was always filled with happiness and anxiety. Life has a way of being so routine when deployed time passes differently and things in some ways feel easier. Returning home is a huge transition and initially that can be difficult

Response by Sgt Michael Mote made Nov 4 at 2021 9:10 PM

2021-11-04T21:10:43-04:00

As an introverted individual, I was excited and relieved to be able to disappear and be separated from other people for a while after the deployment.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2021 9:12 PM

2021-11-04T21:12:35-04:00

I remember feeling very nervous that I had changed too much and was scared that i would not be the same person for my family.

Response by SGT Johnnie Young made Nov 4 at 2021 9:23 PM

2021-11-04T21:23:15-04:00

It was 1972, and if I wore my uniform in the civilian world people would ridicule me, spit on me or try to start a fight. I’m glad our vets today get the respect they deserve.

Response by SGT Carlos Leyva made Nov 4 at 2021 9:24 PM

2021-11-04T21:24:32-04:00

Relief, excitement, joy

Response by SrA Robert McAvoy made Nov 4 at 2021 9:44 PM

2021-11-04T21:44:37-04:00

I served a remote tour on an Island in the Bering Sea. The pristine environment, silence, and breath taking view of the heavens will for ever serve as the well spring for reflections that I would share with my wife, children, family, and friends. But all I could do at first was to hold firmly to the finger of my new born son.

Response by LCpl Shaun Law made Nov 4 at 2021 10:00 PM

2021-11-04T22:00:53-04:00

I felt that nobody got me nor did my country but it had more to do with me and my attitudes. I am glad that I'm getting the help I need particularly to the VA and I am indebted again to my country. Thank you taxpayers.

Response by SN Aaron Wheeler made Nov 4 at 2021 10:27 PM

2021-11-04T22:27:34-04:00

So excited to see my loved ones and touch the sweet hard ground once again

Response by SN John Geralds made Nov 4 at 2021 10:29 PM

2021-11-04T22:29:37-04:00

A lot of anxiety seeing the coast of California. We had just been halfway around the world. We traveled Asia, through the Persian Gulf. We visited many ports, and even helped with the government coup in the Philippines. It was a beautiful thing when we were coming into port, and there were boats following us with signs. People sounding off mega horns, and everybody was very happy. When I was finally on land again, I literally got on my hands and knees and kissed my country right on its pier at 32nd St. Naval Base. That was the second most memorable day. The day I exited my service, I walked out onto The quarterdeck of the ship. I advise the officer of the deck of my intentions, and requested permission to be bonged off the ship. As the officer of the deck made the announcement just before evening colors. Sonar Technician, John E.Geralds II Sonar Technician United States Navy - Departing, Ding! I turned away and looked across the bow and as I crossed it I stopped and turned around, I reached in my pocket and I tossed them a quarter. And I announced, "Thanks for the ride.."

Now to all of you lonely pollywogs and sea creatures, it's your turn to guard the seas. Because this Shellback of the Golden Realm is enjoying life now till the end. Loving it too!

Response by PO2 Kevin C O Dunn made Nov 4 at 2021 10:40 PM

2021-11-04T22:40:33-04:00

I was on a ship. I was single and when we would get back from deployment there was never anybody to meet me at the dock. Being back was more like I was a turtle and no matter where I was, everything that was with me at sea boarding bad-guy ships and chasing stowaway ships was at home port too. It felt good to be back but it wasn't like the reunions when later I was working as a US Maritime captain as a married guy.

After I got out I went to broadcasting school on my GI Bill and was in Norfolk working on 106.9 The Fox when the Russian Navy came to town. US Navy ships would head out every week, other US ships would return every week. I talked to a lot of sailors and the bachelors were having the same experience as I had when I was in... but when the Russians came to port every co-ed from Savannah to Baltimore flooded the docks. I went after the whole injustice of it on my morning show. All these American Sailors who needed that kind of treatment -- sailors who were part of what keeps this country going were being upstaged by communists. Filthy Communism. The Soviet Navy was such (poop emoji) and yet civilian American women and American men were out to give the stinking Soviets an arrival event. I'm still ticked by it. ...and I was born during the Eisenhower administration.

Response by SPC Brandi Garner made Nov 4 at 2021 11:03 PM

2021-11-04T23:03:35-04:00

It was scary and hard to adjust. We went from knowing exactly what we were supposed to do every minute of every day while deployed and coming home to free time. It was hard to readjust to “normal” life again.

Response by PO2 Darin Hetman made Nov 4 at 2021 11:10 PM

2021-11-04T23:10:02-04:00

Thirsty

Response by PO2 Henry Sotomayor made Nov 5 at 2021 12:52 AM

2021-11-05T00:52:41-04:00

After my first deployment my wife was waiting for me on the pier it was a good day. After my second deployment my daughter took her first steps to see me made my day. The only hard part was she cried when I picked her up because I was basically a stranger but the smile she had and the pride she had taking ber first steps I will never forget.

Response by Cpl Jimmie Debity made Nov 5 at 2021 6:19 AM

2021-11-05T06:19:51-04:00

I was very excited and thankful to be home.

Response by SGT Randy Alabran made Nov 5 at 2021 8:59 AM

2021-11-05T08:59:11-04:00

I have a head injury so it’s hard to remember back that far. Don’t have much of a childhood memory only what people tell me. I just retired from my job at USPS with 30yrs combined military and USPS, was in the army from 81-87 not sure where to go from here. Just taking one day at a time and also raising my granddaughter who will be turning 5 November 17.

Response by SSG Michael Pershell made Nov 5 at 2021 9:01 AM

2021-11-05T09:01:27-04:00

I came back from my first deployment of the invasion of Iraq in 2003. I was a scout and it was a high intensity deployment. It was hard going from 100 mph back to 0 again. It was frustrating stopping at red lights and it took a little time to not be constantly vigilant of enemy activity. I started drinking a lot with the guys I was with, because we had that common bond and I could not tell anyone about what I experienced.

It was frustrating when family and friends that were not there would ask the silliest and superficial questions; did you see Saddam, did you see any camels, did you kill anybody, etc. I realized that they would never know or really care at a deeper appreciation. It took some time to not be offended by that.

Response by SPC Aaron C made Nov 5 at 2021 10:01 AM

2021-11-05T10:01:47-04:00

Returning home from the Middle East during the First Gulf War was surreal. I will never forget the emotions that were so overwhelming. We were greeted with celebration, cheers and parades. I saw a people that truly loved our country and it made me so proud. I will never forget when I saw my family for the first time either. After spending so much time away from them, it was a truly emotional experience. I thank God for the opportunity to serve my country and for this experience. I may have only been 21 at the time, but I look back and clearly see the hand of God on my life.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2021 11:00 AM

2021-11-05T11:00:28-04:00

I had a difficult return from my first deployment, due to leaving America and coming back and seeing it in a different way. Sometimes space and time away makes you see more clearly. Most Americans have their priorities all out of whack, and quibble about little things that are so transient. Spending a year deployed, eating MRE each day, imagining all the ways you could be killed each day, and then coming home and trying to adjust and turn off your mind, is a difficult transition.

Response by SPC Bob Mesna made Nov 5 at 2021 11:00 AM

2021-11-05T11:00:58-04:00

I won't pretend to have gone through what combat soldiers out in the bush experienced, but we all had our experience of being shot at or shelled. Coming home was my experience that no one gave a damn. People reacted like we were gone to some seaside resort. No one was interested in including you in any social gathering (family, friends and relatives). First time I heard "Thank you for your service" was at a MN Capital gathering for Vietnam Veterans. Any time I hear that toward me, my attitude is your 45-50 years too late and it is meaningless to me personally. I do appreciate people today saying that to currently serving soldiers. I served proudly and did not abuse any Vietnamese as I could imagine what they were experiencing with a war. Those who do not service in the Military have NO idea what it is like and like coming home.

Response by SN Bernard Parker made Nov 5 at 2021 11:28 AM

2021-11-05T11:28:23-04:00

wonderful,great like winning lotto

Response by SGT Todd Lohr made Nov 5 at 2021 12:10 PM

2021-11-05T12:10:10-04:00

I always looked forward to leave and coming home to visit fam and friends. I has tons of stories to tell and I was proud to be serving my country.

Response by SSgt David Huffman made Nov 5 at 2021 12:43 PM

2021-11-05T12:43:03-04:00

Coming home was good and bad. You slowed down but at the same time you had all the normal day to day things you have to do. When you were deployed you did your job ate worked out and tried to sleep. Being home you did all that plus taking care of your house car , paying bills, getting groceries ECT,ECT. I was always ready to go back after a month of being home. Always missed the RUSH.

Response by SFC Joseph McGraw made Nov 5 at 2021 1:05 PM

2021-11-05T13:05:30-04:00

I always felt like a stranger in my own home for the first couple of weeks it is difficult to adjust to being home. Sleeping was always hard so I gave up on the idea.

Response by SSgt Dennis Sutton made Nov 5 at 2021 1:20 PM

2021-11-05T13:20:46-04:00

When I got to lax there was a big protest going on I was spit at called baby killer , murder I felt so ashamed I almost cried not knowing what was going on I wanted to take my uniform off then a friend that was with me in nam said they don't know personally what we went through then I felt a lot better

Response by Sgt Kelsie Owen made Nov 5 at 2021 1:42 PM

2021-11-05T13:42:01-04:00

I felt overjoyed to be back home and on American soil

Response by SGT Kyle Fogarty made Nov 5 at 2021 2:31 PM

2021-11-05T14:31:51-04:00

For me on my second deployment, it was several emotions. First it was a sense of relief that I had made it through a second year in a combat zone. The other was fear, I had a situation at home that didn't feel right and ultimately proved to be what I feared that my wife had an affair while I was deployed. Other fear was that I was a stop lossed soldier and I had no job lined up once I PCSed from the Army. I got out in a poor economy in 2010 during a recession. Then reintegration was a challenge as we were demobing, facing a divorce, and separation from Army. Crazy times for sure!

Response by SSG Bryan Sherron made Nov 5 at 2021 2:48 PM

2021-11-05T14:48:28-04:00

Excited to see family, miss the structure and adrenaline spikes of combat. The lifelong bonds that were formed in some of your darkest hours-brother and sisterhood.

Response by SP5 Bill Dempsey made Nov 5 at 2021 4:42 PM

2021-11-05T16:42:19-04:00

I was really glad to get home, but regretted leaving so many good friends.

Response by SP5 AngelNasgnA2019 Santiago made Nov 5 at 2021 4:44 PM

2021-11-05T16:44:25-04:00

After 18 months in South-east Asia, coming home was not a great thing. There was not any parades nor celebrations like in other times of war when soldiers came back from the war. I felt acward due to the way most people treat me and how bad I felt adapting back to normal life. There were a lot of protest and marches against the US involventent in this war all over US and Puerto Rico. I still suffer nightmares and have Agent Orange effects from the exposure in South eatb Asia as Diabetes Mellitus 2, wich ia a presumed Agent Orange exposure effect.

Response by SPC Carlton Phelps made Nov 5 at 2021 5:41 PM

2021-11-05T17:41:02-04:00

I received an early out, so I was worried that the Army may make me do the rest of my time in the reserves.
We felt a huge burden lift from our life. We felt we could finally start a real life. I started using the GI bill for college, which I completed my college education with a degree in Sociology. I was a social; worker and teacher for a while. But my in-laws' worked for the post office and pushed me in that direction for the money, which, going from a state salary was a big jump in wages.
28 years later I retired and enjoying retirement.

Response by SP5 Richard Parker made Nov 5 at 2021 6:15 PM

2021-11-05T18:15:14-04:00

Relived live a big wait was lifted.

Response by SN Jose Gee made Nov 5 at 2021 9:39 PM

2021-11-05T21:39:22-04:00

Well the first thing that comes to mind is the honor in the proudest of being a Navy guy standing on the deck as we come into a port okay. I felt that was such a great honor in yeah it was a great honor. As to emotions except there wasn't too many emotions because I really didn't always have someone out there waiting for me because I was from another state there was sometimes a friend who would be out there and at that time knowing that I would be excited and you know happy that you know coming into port and everything

Response by SN Jason Hawes made Nov 6 at 2021 12:22 AM

2021-11-06T00:22:50-04:00

I was so proud of my service and I felt even more proud of the freedom we have here in the USA.

Response by SP5 Lonyae Ransome made Nov 6 at 2021 9:26 AM

2021-11-06T09:26:39-04:00

I felt like a boss. The feeling alone was more like a CEO mindset. Coming back to my home office being able to wear my own clothes was amazing I was more so grateful for the smallest of smallest things. My clothes lol as odd as It sounds. When you are exposed to such austere environment and then you return to one thats far greater the appreciation level increases.

Response by PVT Michele Bowman made Nov 6 at 2021 12:32 PM

2021-11-06T12:32:51-04:00

How I felt coming home was elated because I missed my family sooooo much plus they had went through Hurricane Hugo by themselves without me. I remember hugging my mom so tight and my sister and crying. I was so happy to be back at home with my loved ones.

Response by PO2 John Terry made Nov 6 at 2021 3:50 PM

2021-11-06T15:50:28-04:00

I felt alone and without a purpose. Glad to be with my family, but finding too much free time on my hands. It took a patient wife and my grounding to get by to civilian life.

Response by PFC Susan Lodes made Nov 6 at 2021 6:12 PM

2021-11-06T18:12:10-04:00

I was in during desert storm but I did not deploy with my unit. Even though I never went over seas, going home was always a huge uplifting time for me. My family was proud of me and supported me and always welcomed me with open arms. Going home was exciting. I was the only female in our family that ever was in the military, so it was a big deal to everyone.

Response by CPT Timothy Holden made Nov 6 at 2021 7:35 PM

2021-11-06T19:35:51-04:00

very angry after being spit on at the airport and having a drink thrown in my face and called a murderer by a women at a party

Response by MAJ Billi-Jean King made Nov 6 at 2021 8:29 PM

2021-11-06T20:29:52-04:00

I always felt grateful to come back to home station after a deployment. And I felt truly blessed to be able to come back to be with my family. But I admit that I have lost military friends during some excursions, and I have had to grapple with grief and loss...and guilt for my own safe return. Being surround by loved ones, faith in a divine purpose, and having a sense of duty are what kept me going and striving to still perform at my best.

Response by SSgt James Welle made Nov 6 at 2021 10:49 PM

2021-11-06T22:49:48-04:00

I remember landing at Travis AFB late at night and being greeted by my best friend and his wife which was exciting to see someone from “home”. I got a ride to the apartment where my Mother lived but she was out of town. I tried the key she left for me but it didn’t work! I found the kitchen window open and started to climb inside and noticed the furniture was different and then a light came on from the bedroom so I got out. I found that my mom had moved to a different apt. Then the mgr called and asked if I just got home from Vietnam and did I try to get in the old apartment. I said yes then she told me the lady inside was scared and pulled out a gun to defend herself. Great! I come home from Vietnam and then almost get shot in what I thought to be my Mother’s apt. The next day my friend and I went for pizza, I remember telling him “a week ago I was making airdrops at Khe Sanh under extreme ground fire and now I’m eating pizza at Shakeys Pizza. No time to decompress and at that time the Air Force had no adjustment programs or discussion about PTSD. I was just supposed readjust and get ready for my next duty station, which I did. I just blocked out that time as just another life experience and moved on. It wasn’t until 35 years later that I learned about the demons that live inside you after war. I always maintained the philosophy that other people had it worse so I never talked to anyone or said anything about how I felt or the negative experiences I had while in Vietnam. Ultimately, I was diagnosed with PTSD and have been in therapy on and off since 2004. It two years to finally file a claim and when I received my initial reward, I told my counselor I drug my feet for two years because I thought it would increase my taxable income. She said “You drug your feet because you didn’t think you deserved compensation”. She was right!

Response by CPL Stephanie Hale made Nov 7 at 2021 12:59 AM

2021-11-07T00:59:12-04:00

In a word, EXCITED. I deployed twice and I loved every minute of it but returning home is so nice because I would be amazed at the changes in my town. My mother had six children and five of us served, plus two son in-laws, she was used to deployment.

Response by PO2 Neil Viertel made Nov 8 at 2021 12:17 AM

2021-11-08T00:17:02-05:00

I completed 3 Deployments in 4 yrs, 2000, 01-02, & 03-04. I had no one waiting for me back on the pier each time I came back. I never got to feel that happiness, joy, & excitement of seeing & returning to loved ones or friends. To be honest, it was kind of depressing to me a lil bit. Seeing all that happiness & etc, and yet, absolutely nothing for me. When I would fly home on Leave after a West Pac was really no different than visiting home on regular leave.

Response by SrA Erik Mitchell made Nov 8 at 2021 2:17 AM

2021-11-08T02:17:01-05:00

I was always ecstatic. Couldn't wait to see family and friends. I was very happy for weeks.

Response by PO3 Diana R made Nov 8 at 2021 7:46 AM

2021-11-08T07:46:10-05:00

Relieved and sad. Relieved to have elbow room and be in my own spaces again. Sad because the only place I've ever really felt at home was when I was on or under the water.

Response by Cpl Art Torres made Nov 8 at 2021 9:03 AM

2021-11-08T09:03:39-05:00

Coming home from my first tour in Iraq was one of the happiest days of my life. I love America.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Nov 8 at 2021 4:30 PM

2021-11-08T16:30:08-05:00

I remember my Cold War redeployment in July 1984. During those days, the periodic heightened tensions between USSR/East Europe and USA/UK/Canada/West Germany kept us on our toes while deployed and many make home seemed oblivious. Thankfully that aspect of the Cold War never went hot - although terrorism was hot during those days.
When I returned to the USA I was warmly welcomed by many friends and my family.

Image: Cold War Deployment and Redeployment
FYI SSG Bill McCoy SMSgt Lawrence McCarter SPC Woody Bullard COL Lisandro Murphy SGM Major Stroupe LTC Tom Jones SFC Terry Fortune PO3 Edward Riddle PO3 Edward Riddle SSgt David M. SGT Mary G. CPL Douglas Chrysler Sgt Private RallyPoint Member CWO4 Terrence Clark SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. SSgt Kelly D.CPL Ronald Keyes Jr

Response by Maj David BenJames made Nov 8 at 2021 9:06 PM

2021-11-08T21:06:56-05:00

It was 1970, There was no one at the airport to say "Welcome Home, Thank you for your service". It was just the opposite, Groups for people protesting the Vietnam War, being cursed at and spat upon, being called names. It was not a good time.

Response by SPC Edgar Jordan made Nov 9 at 2021 2:47 AM

2021-11-09T02:47:05-05:00

Felt really good coming home

Response by PO3 Larry Anderson made Nov 9 at 2021 12:55 PM

2021-11-09T12:55:24-05:00

I remmeber getting off the plane in California and kissing the ground. Then taking a bus to Treasure Island Naval Station in San Fransisco, knowing I was back home in America and civilization.

Response by SSgt Jaime Carothers made Nov 9 at 2021 2:52 PM

2021-11-09T14:52:56-05:00

At the time, I was young and unattached, so traveling/deploying didn't bother me. It was always nice to come home and sleep in my own bed and not in a tent or other strange place. And it was nice to see my friends again as well. There was also always an adjustment to the time change - sometimes it was like changing your days and nights around completely.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2021 3:41 PM

2021-11-09T15:41:39-05:00

GREATFUL FOR WATER AND SHELTER FROM SUN; GREAT TO HEAR MANY SOUNDS I WAS MISSING-LIKE HIGH HEELS CLICKING. BIRDS OUTSIDE THE WINDOW JUBILLEE -CLEAR FRESH SMELLS AFTER DAMAGED SINUS BURNS. SILENCE FALLS OF STILLNESS AND VINTAGE PHOTOS OF YESTERYEAR -
LEAVES RUSTLE AND WATERFALLS

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2021 6:10 PM

2021-11-09T18:10:34-05:00

relieved, joyful, nervous/anxious

Response by SSgt Kayla Gordon made Nov 9 at 2021 6:10 PM

2021-11-09T18:10:56-05:00

My deployments were super short and relaxed, so coming home didn't feel much different from returning from vacation. The biggest thing was always the excitement to see my dog again.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2021 6:15 PM

2021-11-09T18:15:08-05:00

Always without fail...swamp butt. Trying to have a heartwarming reunion and you know without a doubt that you not only stink, there's sand, lots of sand. And you love everything about being back, but all you want is a shower. Even when I showered the day I flew out. Did I mention sand?

Response by SP5 Mason Dixon made Nov 9 at 2021 6:40 PM

2021-11-09T18:40:31-05:00

I was nervous to come home from Iraq. It was during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and I was scared we would be sent there since that is where my battalion was out of, but thankfully we were not. I was happy to see my daughter who was just born when I was activated and was 20 months when I got home. It was a relief to be where I could relax without daily explosions and to be able to shower barefoot.

Response by SGT Linsey Anderson made Nov 9 at 2021 7:57 PM

2021-11-09T19:57:27-05:00

I felt disconnected. I wasn’t used to caring for or worrying about my children everywhere I went. I even caught myself about to leave my 18 moth old in the car by mistake. Thankfully my wonderful husband was there to remind me about the baby.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2021 3:16 AM

2021-11-10T03:16:10-05:00

The exhaustion and has been working for seven months straight. My mind was tired, but more importantly, my spirit was negative and tainted from the toxicity of the environment, which is to be expected from a deployment. It was great to see my family and we had a big cookout upon my arrival home. The fact we brought everyone from the unit back home was a positive as well. It took me about a full six months to a year to be really home though. People were fairly supportive too, even if I was grumpy at times. I look back on it with fondness now and a sense of accomplishment. I miss the men and women from the unit through the tough and fun times. It is an experience that I would not trade and made me a more mature and other-centered person today.

Response by CPT Pamela Mcghee made Nov 10 at 2021 7:11 AM

2021-11-10T07:11:56-05:00

I served in the Operation Enduring Freedom Campaign in Kuwait at Camp Doho as a nurse. I did get a chance to go in to Iraq to work at a special field clinic. For me serving overseas was one of the best opportunities I have had that taught me how to serve others not only as a nurse but as a comrade. We took care of the Iraqi civilians, POWs, and each other during a time of conflict and not one time was I ever afraid. I developed close connections to the civilians we cared for and cried when they left us in a bag. Walking in a place where sone of the major biblical figures walked also gave me a spiritual boost such that I don’t think I have ever been the same. I’m fact when I returned to the States and getting off that plane where families were attending made me feel so proud for serving my country. In fact I cried tears and from that day forward try to live every day to it’s fullest.

Response by MSgt Richard Rogozinski made Nov 10 at 2021 9:44 PM

2021-11-10T21:44:10-05:00

Homecoming should not ever be stressful event at anytime of one's return from any Active duty service after deployment to war zone. One war zone being Vietnam war. While PCS station was Naha, Okinawa for 14 months. spent over eight months in go in & out of Vietnam & several other countries via Crew Chief on C-130A cargo aircraft. Once was able to return to the States with feelings of being proud serving in that war. WOW! You are kidding me. Many hi-school friends & other folks I hung out with treated me as though I was a mobster killer. But, After proudly serving 26 years in Air Force Reserves & 5 years & 5 months active duty all on C-130 cargo aircraft along with being deployed to many other world events that the United States has been involved. Today have been Thanked & Praised for my service in the Military. Hence forward to close this chapter in my life of being blessed to serve those many years & bring the C-130 cargo aircraft I was in charge of back home safety. New chapter is now in progress being retired & enjoy my freedom.

Response by SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. made Nov 11 at 2021 1:19 PM

2021-11-11T13:19:21-05:00

Lost! I felt lost when I came back from Iraq. Still had to report back to the unit to conduct inventory and cleaning of equipment by it was somewhat of a mix bag of feelings. Feeling happy that I was back home to be with family and friends but at the same time I had to find and play the role of Dad again, and hopefully find another job in due time. Had problems re-adjusting for the first 2 weeks being hyper active and sensitive. Especially when I went to Fry's Grocery Store one day loading my groceries in the car and the person next to me was loading her groceries as well in her truck and slammed the tailgate shut which made me flinch and hit the ground so fast that I thought it was an IED or something. My wife did not know why I reacted like this until I had told her. Thank GOD that in time this passed and was able to overcome it.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2021 4:46 PM

2021-11-11T16:46:14-05:00

It is a mix of excitement and adjustment for sure. It helps to transition “gradually” and attend family support and other family reunification events if they are available.

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made Nov 12 at 2021 6:23 PM

2021-11-12T18:23:49-05:00

Extatic! There were times that I wondered that when I came home I would upright or in a box. I made up my mind there and then that I would never leave these great United States and stuck to it. There is so much to see and do here, why leave? I know that things are screwed up now but they will get better. The loony left won't be able to keep controul, the good people of this land will eventualy prevail.

Response by PO1 Paul M. made Nov 17 at 2021 9:40 AM

2021-11-17T09:40:07-05:00

As a reservist and part of a battalion not in my state, I didn't have any support from that battalion since I didn't know anyone, and no one knew me or my family. I got back to see my family at the airport and since I was Navy and not allowed to travel in uniform, I traveled in obscurity. It was weird coming home unprepared for how the civilian world would look after the chaos of Iraq. I was intolerant of petty nonsense back home and had no outlet for any anxiety I felt and kept my head on a swivel for the longest time(sometimes still do). After deployments to Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa, the transition was better because the military learned better. It still didn't change the fact that my family was ignored by the Navy because we lived in Texas away from the Seabee bases and resources in Port Hueneme and Gulfport. We relied on older veteran family members and their spouses for how to try to become normal again and how to get help dealing with demons and nightmares. It really never ends though.

Response by PO1 Brenda Hipps made Nov 17 at 2021 6:34 PM

2021-11-17T18:34:27-05:00

I was on 4 deployments. The first one was different because my husband was on deployment also and was gone for 4 more months. The other 3 after were after we had children. The first one after my son was born was the hardest. I was excited to be coming home, but nervous about how my son who was 1 year old would react. The last 2 were a bit better because I knew what to expect with the kids.

Response by CPL Jimmy Webb made Nov 17 at 2021 7:32 PM

2021-11-17T19:32:36-05:00

A little bit weird because I was stationed in different locations in the world and living in their Community are there space in the world it was just trying to come back home it was nice I loved it coming home

Response by PO3 Thomas Jester made Nov 17 at 2021 7:44 PM

2021-11-17T19:44:27-05:00

Whenever I was deployed I was actually working where I was when I was at my home base I didn't have much to do to do so being deployed was the most exciting part for me while serving in the military. I actually loved it quite a bit. It is the one thing that I truly miss about my military life.

Response by CPL Terrance Cook made Nov 17 at 2021 8:16 PM

2021-11-17T20:16:40-05:00

I returned home for the first time in the early summer of 1973, on leave for 30 days. I had been in the service for only a year but I was looking forward to being with family and friends. I was warmly greeted by my family, however, it was a different scene with my "friends". There were about 10 of us that got together at our favorite pub. Everyone seemed anxious to see me, most had no idea I was in the service. They only knew that I had not been around for a long time. I was asked where had I been for so long. I told them I was in the Army and home on leave. The group suddenly went silent and stared at me. Then the conversations began again, only this time, without me being included. I felt like no one could see me or hear me. No one talked to me or even looked at me. It was as though I was never there. After being shut out for about 15 minutes, I got up and left. I said nothing to my so called friends and they said nothing to me. It seemed like an eternity had passed, even though we had only been together about 15 minutes. I felt alone and couldn't understand what was going on. I flew back overseas to my unit after being on leave for only 7 days. Everyone in my unit was surprised to see me back so soon. When I told them what happened, I heard story after story of the same thing happening to them. I'll never forget that time in my life as I found out that in reality, I had only acquittances back home. My real friends were in the military with me! Nowadays I go out of my way whenever I see (or find out) a military person is nearby. To the outside world, a serviceman or woman is not welcomed. I want them to know that they are special and I thank them for their service. It makes me feel that my time in the military was indeed worth it and I want them to know that theirs is too! Thank you all for listening and THANKS FOR SERVING!

Response by SGT Estelle Stewart made Nov 17 at 2021 8:26 PM

2021-11-17T20:26:53-05:00

A sense of relief that I made it through the deployment that I survived that experience

Response by PO3 Omar Riveracolon made Nov 17 at 2021 8:39 PM

2021-11-17T20:39:25-05:00

Coming back home was great because I wanted to hit the ground running and demonstrate the military skills which I adopted in a civilian setting. I took some classes to prepare myself mentally, connected with Elders at my local Church, spoke to wise friends and family members before establishing a plan and moving forward on the best strategy for success. Coming back home I learned that if you look for help, there are people that are willing to help you succeed. trust in yourself first then take the next step of faith and have courage when taking risk. We learn many skills in the military and we wore many hats. Don’t settle for less, seek to be awesomene!

Response by Sgt William Von Ohlen made Nov 17 at 2021 8:51 PM

2021-11-17T20:51:40-05:00

I remember coming home in March 1969. It was not pretty. I was actually on Treasure Island Naval Station, San Francisco, CAL. We were not welcomed, but Marines stick together and actually no one wanted to mess with us. The thousand mile stare, kept them away.
Semper Fi!

Response by SP5 William Jones made Nov 17 at 2021 8:52 PM

2021-11-17T20:52:32-05:00

Very tired after 8 1/2 months in combat in RVN, ~2 months in the hospital in Sukiran Okinawa,
arriving by plane to San Bernadino, then St. Louis, then Newark airport (I think?), then bus to New York Port Authority, the by Subway (D train) to Bklyn falling asleep arriving at end of line, missing Avenue H, returning on D train, falling asleep AGAIN!, waking in Manhattan, returning again and FINALLY arriving at Avenue H, schlepping my duffel bag 4 blocks to my Mom's apt. on East 19th.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 9:00 PM

2021-11-17T21:00:36-05:00

Overwhelming !!!!!
You go from have limited responsibilities to having 1000 responsibilities. It can be incredibly scary. The struggle is real and very serious. You have one or two main jobs, then you come home and you have a whole variety of jobs and factors that need attention on a daily basis.

Response by SGT David McNeil made Nov 17 at 2021 9:02 PM

2021-11-17T21:02:12-05:00

It was super lonely. I was single so no one was there for our homecoming and our barracks wasn't ready for us so I remember searching for supplies from anywhere. Sucked for a couple of days at least.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 9:02 PM

2021-11-17T21:02:15-05:00

Overwhelming !!!!! scary , awkward and uncomfortable

Response by SGT Rebecca Walker made Nov 17 at 2021 9:08 PM

2021-11-17T21:08:23-05:00

During my deployment I got more nervous to come home. I didn't know why, I just felt really nervous. I was happy to see my family, husband and children, but I just had this feeling I couldn't understand. After getting home, I think I figured it out. I was nervous on how my family would respond to me getting home. They spent a whole year living on without me there. I felt like I was not welcome in my own home. I didn't know how anyone would react if they knew how I really felt. I thought there was this stero type to Soldiers who have anxiety and PTSD. I thought no one would understand what I was dealing with, unless they were deployed with me. I would get angry at myself for not being "normal" anymore. I got angry quick at family, I lost most my friends. I was on edge. One of the first things I noticed was the bus ride from the airport to base. On the highway I was super nervous for some reason. I looked around and it seemed like I was the only one who was freaking out. It took time and at times I'm still struggling. But it has improved. My family still doesn't know how I was/am affected.

Response by SSG Lindsey Reamer-Knutson made Nov 17 at 2021 9:10 PM

2021-11-17T21:10:00-05:00

Alone, lost and injured and unsure of who to turn to for help.

Response by CDR Theresa Everest made Nov 17 at 2021 9:24 PM

2021-11-17T21:24:16-05:00

Boy, what a question. I was anxious and nervous. I couldn’t understand what was happening to me. Everything that I knew and counted on when I was deployed was gone. The schedule was gone, my battle buddies were gone, I couldn’t understand why people were so lax about their security and then my family going off about stupid stuff like an unmowed yard. I wasn’t 100% convinced that I had a TBI or PTSD but I knew something was wrong with me. All that I wanted was to go back to Afghanistan because that’s where I felt right in my head.

Response by SMSgt Kristen Stanley made Nov 17 at 2021 10:07 PM

2021-11-17T22:07:30-05:00

A euphoric high mixed with anxiety. Great to be back to hugs and kisses from my family. Kids didn't want me out of their aight. It was a strange transition.

Response by Maj Karina Glover made Nov 17 at 2021 10:12 PM

2021-11-17T22:12:40-05:00

Two words—awkward and alone. My husband was still in Iraq and due to a mix-up no one met me at the airport. I paid for a taxi to get home. When I arrived my baby didn’t even know me and cried for any many days as I was a stranger.

Response by SP5 John Clark made Nov 17 at 2021 10:15 PM

2021-11-17T22:15:31-05:00

I returned home in 1969 after 18 months in I corps Vietnam,I was excited to be in a safe location . Was not long I realized two things, first I realized I was bored, the everyday excitement/ comradely was not present and secondly I soon came to realize the WWII and Korean vets wanted nothing to do with Nam vets. Used the GI Bill and obtained a bachelor degree.

Response by PO2 Michael Maloney made Nov 17 at 2021 10:15 PM

2021-11-17T22:15:57-05:00

Very unwelcomed (1973)! Accused of crimes against children and females. Had my car windows broken and tires slashed. Employment difficulties and struggling from substance abuse.

Response by PO2 Thresa Arney made Nov 17 at 2021 10:23 PM

2021-11-17T22:23:04-05:00

My husband was enlisted. So coming home was just like any other day for me.

Response by PVT Russell Lawrence made Nov 17 at 2021 10:37 PM

2021-11-17T22:37:38-05:00

Extremely happy to be alive and home.

Response by SFC Josue Ubiles made Nov 17 at 2021 10:40 PM

2021-11-17T22:40:52-05:00

I felt nausea, anxiety, excitement. I took couple of tours combat zone I was unemployed. I knew was unemployed again came back from deployment. Because I was working in the Army Reserve was hard to find jobs when getting back. Better prefer to stay on deployment the life was not so complicated just work 12 hours or more with extensive heat because you are in a combat zone.

Response by LCpl Robert Shepherd made Nov 17 at 2021 10:55 PM

2021-11-17T22:55:15-05:00

After returning home from combat in Iraq I felt very alone without my fellow soldiers, and found it really hard to try to adapt back to civilian life. It was strange being around my family after being gone for so long. Thank God for the VA and all the programs for PTSD.

Response by TSgt Karen B. made Nov 17 at 2021 10:58 PM

2021-11-17T22:58:29-05:00

I had several deployments. Coming home from the last one was the hardest for me. While I was physically home, mentally...I didn't return home for about 6 months. It was really hard to adjust to being in traffic or crowds again. Every piece of debris in the road was a potential threat. Loud noises made me take cover. It was...different. Of course, what I experienced during my deployments are different from what other experience. And we all react differently. I've been home from my last rotation for nearly 16 years, but I'm still dealing with issues. If this sounds familiar, it's okay to seek help.

Response by FN Mark Jewett made Nov 17 at 2021 11:00 PM

2021-11-17T23:00:00-05:00

I was disgusted and ashamed of the cowardice shown by so many. I became mean and ready to fight at the drop of a hat. I see our newer veterans being exposed to the same treatment. I still hate hippies and leftist, socialist scum.

Response by SGT Bobby Brooks made Nov 17 at 2021 11:27 PM

2021-11-17T23:27:59-05:00

It felt good to be with family after being gone, to be able to relax after being in a stressful disciplined atmosphere. To be able to openly share my experiences in the deployment.

Response by PO1 Carlos Xochihua made Nov 17 at 2021 11:29 PM

2021-11-17T23:29:48-05:00

Felt very different after my deployments. Helped out to talk to old friends as well as fellow vets or active duty members. HAVE TO TALK!!!

Response by Sgt Larry Megert made Nov 17 at 2021 11:29 PM

2021-11-17T23:29:54-05:00

I returned home July 1969 after thirteen months in Vietnam to my wife and seven month old daughter. I was on leave but still had eleven months of active service ahead. It was great making it home but too many things were happening all at once. I had a daughter that I didn't know and my mother-in-law was in hospital dyeing. I didn't know who I was and what I wanted. I know at the time the last thing I wanted to do was to go to Camp Lejuene, North Carolina. I did take my family to Camp Lejuene and served honorably and got back home the next year. I was in a different world than the civilians and I felt it. I was mad at my country and the civilians that didn't know a thing about war. Luckily I brushed it off in a couple of years later and moved on.

Response by PO2 Fredisvindo Bebe made Nov 17 at 2021 11:57 PM

2021-11-17T23:57:57-05:00

Coming home to my family and familiar ground after my deployments was always bliss for me. The life lessons learned from experiencing deployments within and outside the US has taught me a lot yet coming home to my life, to my family, there is nothing more centering.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 12:15 AM

2021-11-18T00:15:15-05:00

I was deployed 3 times each time when the ship docked , No Band , No one to greet us . 1969 to 1971 . Today the Military is tops . Long overdue . About time . I would still do it all over again . i watched my son return home from oversea 2005 , i was so proud . Band playing , Family and Friends greeted them all.

Response by SSgt Sandra Cunningham made Nov 18 at 2021 1:05 AM

2021-11-18T01:05:57-05:00

I enjoyed my time in Germany and took as many rec center trips as I could so I could see all the places I had read about in my history books. I was disappointed to leave because there were so many more places I wanted to see

Response by Sgt Diego Murillo made Nov 18 at 2021 1:15 AM

2021-11-18T01:15:25-05:00

I went back to my normal schedule pretty quickly after deployment. The only thing I needed to adjust with is all the time I now had on my hands. I ended up taking leave two weeks after returning and that was a huge help to me mentally because it took me away from the military environment and I was able to just decompress with loved ones.

Response by Sgt Hazel Abraham made Nov 18 at 2021 1:38 AM

2021-11-18T01:38:59-05:00

both me and my husband were enlisted. although I had not deployed at all, my husband was deployed the whole first year of our marriage (he was home a total of approximately a month... a few days here and there). we both felt excited and relief that we were both safe and reunited each time he returned.

Response by PO3 Sean Evans made Nov 18 at 2021 1:41 AM

2021-11-18T01:41:11-05:00

A feeling of exalt certainly. Being away for so long becomes second nature though. Sure, coming back home is a exuberant feeling, but when you don't see your family, your country, or your friends for so long it becomes all you know. There's a deeper level of gratitude that is gained having been away for such long stretches of time. It's only bound to toughen someone up. Which I don't think is a bad thing.

Response by SGT Bill Braniff made Nov 18 at 2021 1:49 AM

2021-11-18T01:49:47-05:00

I returned to the US from Vietnam in late 1968 and was out of the Army the following July. I had wanted to stay in the service but because of a medical profile I wasn’t allowed to reap.
After returning to my home in Canada, I had a period of over eleven years tgat I remember very little. I drank too much had recurring nightmares, and completely shied away from former friends and relatives.
I only have bits and pieces of my memory from those years.
I got married the day after getting g hut of the hospital in Valley Forge PA, as I was being reassigned.
I had no problems while in the service, it was all after I left the warmth of fellow Veterans my problems began. Finally in 1981 I was able to at last land a great job and things started getting much better for me my wife and three children.
My wife was the pillar that kept our family together and kept me from doing something terribly bad. Suicide.
PTSD is a destroyer. It is something most combat veterans will have for their lifetime w, but it is something one can control.
The VA took me into their arms and got me back to a better life. One that I can tolerate. So make tgat call to the VA if you are having problems with what could be PTSD or other problems from wounds tgat don’t get a Purple Heart.

Response by MSgt Jason Black made Nov 18 at 2021 2:09 AM

2021-11-18T02:09:32-05:00

I completed 10 deployments during my 22 years of service with the Marines and although each experience was unique, one theme emerged from each of them. How immensely proud (and truly grateful) I am to be an American and how relieved I was to get everyone I was in charge of back home. I only failed in this endeavor a single time but it motivated me to do everything humanly possible to get each and every Marine and Sailor in my charge back to their families. Although I live constantly with that lost life I can’t help but think his sacrifice saved dozens or maybe even hundreds of lives in the 16 years since his passing. Semper Fi

Response by SGM Sohui Chong made Nov 18 at 2021 2:35 AM

2021-11-18T02:35:17-05:00

For a single person, I felt depressed and alone. Coming from deployment where you are constantly surrounded by people and noise, the silence of the room was terrifying. For 12 months, 24/7, I had schedules and timeliness that I followed. Suddenly, I was free and didn't know what to do with time. When I visited my kids and family, I felt little awkward. I felt like an intruder. Trying to adjust to everything and do things I did prior to deployment were not easy.

Response by CDR Teresa McFarland made Nov 18 at 2021 3:09 AM

2021-11-18T03:09:35-05:00

As a mobilized Navy Reserve Nurse I felt very excited to be back in my own house, with my cat, and to unpack all of my things. Getting settled at home was busy, overwhelming, and also enlightening. As I got my furniture arranged and unpacked numerous boxes, I realized how little I actually needed, and that much of what I had was really a burden to me. I delighted in being able to cook in my own kitchen, and dig in the garden again.
Returning to my civilian job was a happy experience, and also awkward. I felt like i was a stranger among my coworkers. They were glad to see me, and I was happy to be back; but they would never truly know the “me” that had been gone, that had grown and changed in profound & permanent ways. They acted as if I had been on a long vacation or sabbatical and at times I perceived some resentment, or maybe envy that I could return to my same position.
I felt understood and deeply valued by two of my adult sons who serve in the US Army, they understood the things I had no words for, even though our experiences were quite different. My mother and father also served in the Air Force during WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Cold War; and their support was evident.
I’m single, so my old cat was my companion and housemate. He loved me unconditionally and his presence, affection, and acceptance was the best welcome home of all.

Response by PO2 Jose Feria made Nov 18 at 2021 3:24 AM

2021-11-18T03:24:37-05:00

I went to 2 West Pac deployments during ODS and felt a huge sigh of relief coming home. My legs went shaky the moment I walked on solid ground after months of being out at sea. I felt lost, no one showed up to greet me with a heroes welcome upon our arrival at our home base; not that I deserve or ask for one. Soon after that, our ship went straight to the dry docks. There was this general fear of going back for another deployment because it was still in the height of ODS. I had nightmares of being out at sea, trapped during those seemingly long days and nights that won't end. The smell of jet fuels and shadows of random people filled my unconscious. I wake up in the middle of the night with panic attacks. Depression, including anger and avoidance followed; I questioned my identity and role, no sense of direction and worse, no one seemed to understand or bother to ask me what it's like out there. It was horrible.

I've never shared this experience with anyone so I'm glad we're given this platform to tell our stories. I think our service members returning from deployment or combat need more readjustment and reintegration tools and skills under their belt, not just a few debriefs, but a consistent continuity of care. These are our children, our brothers or sisters, our partners, spouses, fathers, mothers, friends, neighbors. They are people who desperately want to readapt to the civilian world. But how do you do that if there's no one out there who sees and listens?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 4:36 AM

2021-11-18T04:36:15-05:00

Relieved, mostly. Deployed from an overseas assignment and returned there. Didn't come back for years after that. My family did not support my choice to enlist. I was also unattached, so it was all kind of weird. Nothing compared to what so many here endured. It was sad to read these stories of sacrifice in light of the (very selfish) behavior of current politicians and younger generations, who appear to have completely forgotten or have never learned what our country stands for. Our country has become a very sad place.

Response by SP5 Gary Hartman made Nov 18 at 2021 5:24 AM

2021-11-18T05:24:16-05:00

Overjoyed at first. But protestors calling us baby killers took that away quickly. I couldn't wait to get out of that uniform. It took several weeks to get use to loud noises. I almost hit the deck one day in town when the noon time siren went off.

Response by SN Virginia Johle made Nov 18 at 2021 6:02 AM

2021-11-18T06:02:25-05:00

Deployment is a strong word to use for what we did. Being in immediately post Desert Storm was a benefit then, plus I was on a submarine tender that really didn't go anywhere. Still, when you're used to getting off the ship and going to your own bed, three months of living onboard in a cramped female supply berthing is crap. Coming back to home port was always a relief. There's never any place lice home.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 6:40 AM

2021-11-18T06:40:44-05:00

I call my deployment to Afghanistan in 2014 my forgotten year. Although I was based out of Bagram Airfield, had access to WiFi, and lived a relatively comfortable life I missed out on a lot of the popular culture happening in the United States; I either missed it or realized it doesn't matter as much with all of the other priorities a deployment brings to the forefront of your daily life. When people bring up popular culture topics from that year I more often than not say "I don't remember that." Most importantly, it was difficult to get accustomed as quickly as I expected to driving, paying bills, cooking, etc. after not having to worry about daily domestic duties for so long. Most everything comes back with time but some things are changed forever.

Response by CPT Gwen Cubie made Nov 18 at 2021 7:14 AM

2021-11-18T07:14:45-05:00

I had 2 long deployments, during my years in the Reserves (to Saudi Arabia and Germany), and I can only describe it as a feeling of joy and elation to be back with those I love. Someone took pictures of me with family and friends when I got off the plane, and I think the look on our faces says it all. Getting back into the groove of work was an adjustment, but family issues (as a single mother) was, no doubt, the biggest challenge. My son was 7yrs old, when I left the first time, and a high school senior the next time. It wasn't easy. Took some therapy and re-grouping. I missed some important time in my son's life, we would never get back. So, there's definitely sacrifices to yourself, as well as your family.

Response by A1C Dana Roberts made Nov 18 at 2021 7:16 AM

2021-11-18T07:16:14-05:00

I came home expecting to return to the job that I had left when I responded to this Country's call. I was promised the job would be held for me by my father. The job was mine by the GI Bill. When I attempted to go to work my father said "I don't want you". I felt as if I had been kicked in the gut It was a case of someone spreading false gossip.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 7:51 AM

2021-11-18T07:51:08-05:00

The military does a great job teaching you how to put a uniform on (and all the things that go along with it). However they suck about telling you how to take it off. I remember obviously being glad to be home. Seeing my kids, my family, friends, the lack of the stressors of being in harms way. However, the simplicity of life in combat was missed. The enemy was clear over there, anyone not in "our uniform" was suspect. Meals were made, served and free. There was always a mission. The pay checks were steady. And you were most likely surrounded by "family". After coming home, though I loved the time with my kids, some of "my family" was still living in the sand box. The mission at home was much less clear. Meals now depended on me. Pay checks were not as easy to come by. The mind often wandered. I do have to admit, beer tasted way better when I got back!

Response by CPL Richard Spor made Nov 18 at 2021 8:08 AM

2021-11-18T08:08:35-05:00

After losing both legs and my left hand paralyzed from a mine in Vietnam I was grateful for the care I received at a medic unit and the army hospital on Okinawa! I spent 6 months at Walter Reed and had great care. I became the Chief of Prosthetic Service at the Wilmington VA and then the Phila VA. I was so happy to care for my fellow veterans! At 73 they help me when I need it now

Response by 1LT Michael Contos made Nov 18 at 2021 8:19 AM

2021-11-18T08:19:56-05:00

Robert DeNiro captured the feeling I had upon returning home when he starred in the movie "The Dear Hunter." He did not want to join in any type of welcome home gatherings and avoided large crowds just like I did upon my return from Vietnam. Worse yet, was when I had decided to go to college and was attending an "orientation session." The greeter was a long-haired skinny hippie-type of guy that was hugging people as they showed up. Mostly girls but I remember saying to myself that if he tried to hug me I was going to punch him in the mouth.

Response by MSgt Gail Badell made Nov 18 at 2021 8:33 AM

2021-11-18T08:33:18-05:00

I was so happy to see everyone and hug them. I was worried that my children wouldn't remember me or want to be around me. I was worried that they moved on with parts of their life's and I was not involved. They had their routines and I was not included any more.

Response by PO3 Larry Ware made Nov 18 at 2021 8:36 AM

2021-11-18T08:36:30-05:00

I was embarrassed how the people treated us when we came home. even my own family

Response by SFC Damian T. Siggia made Nov 18 at 2021 9:06 AM

2021-11-18T09:06:12-05:00

Honestly, everytime I returned home from war or a long deployment I had many mixed emotions. There was so much unknown out there before social media. During Desert Shield/Desert Storm I left my newly married, pregnant wife and never knew if I would return or be able to see her again or be able to hold our new baby. We spoke one time on a MARS radio call and had to end each statement with, "OVER." I wrote whenever I could and used the cardboard package from the MREs as a postcard. When I finally did come home it was truly overwhelming. I felt stronger, better prepared and more thankful than I have ever felt in my entire life. I really felt that I was, "10 foot tall and bulletproof." Everything I did upon return was like I was doing it for the very 1st time. Still thankful to this day that I got to serve my country and return back to it safely. God Bless America!

Response by CH (LTC) Jon Tidball made Nov 18 at 2021 9:09 AM

2021-11-18T09:09:56-05:00

Coming home is never as easy as you would think/hope. Everyone had grown and become more independent, and the whole family dynamic changed. I had to step back into my role with caution yet excitement. The work dynamic had also changed with my soldiers having increased family/marriage problems. The massive number of PCS moves threw my unit out of certification and recovery operations were very hard.

Response by Charlotte Rose made Nov 18 at 2021 9:55 AM

2021-11-18T09:55:18-05:00

When my dad returned from deployment, for me personally, it was always the best days. It was like the whole in my heart was being filled each time, however looking back on it I think my dad would say that returning was more a cacophony of emotions. He was definitely happy to be home, but at the same time he had to adjust to the changes that had occurred while he was deployed. In fact, we all did. Some of us had taken on new familial roles or new chores because my dad was gone, and when he returned he had to re-evaluate the family dynamic. So while, yes, returning from deployment can be exciting, it can also be stressful because so much will have inevitably changed since the service member had left.

Response by SSgt Thomas Korenek made Nov 18 at 2021 10:00 AM

2021-11-18T10:00:04-05:00

I was for a lack of a better term "thrilled" to be going back to the USA. Unfortunately, I was somewhat apprehensive too. I had heard about the "potential negative greeting" one might receive. Yes. the "dirty, long haired, anti-Vietnam War Protestors" were there. Was really a let down for me! I was proud of my service and the uniform I wore. Those "draft dodging people" made me feel like an enemy of the United States. After I received my "Honorable Discharge", I had to report to local draft board and sign up for the Draft. The woman behind the desk said "sarcastically", "They are sure letting a lot of you out!" To this day I have not thought of what civil response I should have blasted her with. That was over 50 years ago!

Regardless, of the reception I received I would serve my country again... However, to this day I have no use for the so-called "Hippy Participants, Jane Fonda, Draft Dodgers, etc."

Forgot to mention, my family treated me like a Super Hero.

Response by PFC Edward Mayer made Nov 18 at 2021 10:06 AM

2021-11-18T10:06:19-05:00

The joy I felt, when our troop ship coming home from Japan, went under the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco.

Response by Sgt Richard E Lambert made Nov 18 at 2021 10:52 AM

2021-11-18T10:52:53-05:00

WOW!! As a Marine coming back from the "vacation land of Southeast Asia" my family was overjoyed but for some others I could feel the dislike, even the hatred for who I was. It still hurts a bit today after 50 plus years when I think about it.

Response by SFC Robert Surrette made Nov 18 at 2021 10:53 AM

2021-11-18T10:53:35-05:00

It was certainly great coming home to the land of the round door knobs. It was all so great that all the signage was in my native language. Best of all was that I could drive to see my family instead of having to fly.

Response by SGT Marie Vedder made Nov 18 at 2021 11:42 AM

2021-11-18T11:42:58-05:00

I felt betrayed. It was early 2004 and no one was paying any attention to the 2 wars, because most of them didn’t feel they had any connection or skin in the game. I was, and I remain, angry at people’s apathy and ignorance, and in favor of a draft and/or mandatory service of some sort (not necessarily military) for all. People seem happy to allow a war that they don’t bear the cost of.

Response by SCPO Timothy Canup made Nov 18 at 2021 12:19 PM

2021-11-18T12:19:12-05:00

It is never easy coming home to family you have not seen in months or even spoken to for months. I always seemed to move right into things that were going on. My wife did not stop when I was gone, so I kind of just tools things onboard a little bit at a time. Come to find out, my youngest was the most affected by me being gone and she suffers from mental illness. We get help from the VA and Tricare, but the copays add up. Take advantage of everything you can for you family while you are in. Once you get out, things are different.

Response by SrA Amber Harris made Nov 18 at 2021 1:06 PM

2021-11-18T13:06:05-05:00

I was pretty nervous and sad. I was having to find a new "normal" and fall back into stateside life. I had wanted to extend my deployment because I was very used to the day-to-day life over there. It was a simpler life in regards to we did our job, we slept, and we ate. There wasn't the hubbub of having to keep up with the Jones'! I wasn't married and didn't have kids, so I figured the longer I stayed over there then it's the longer someone could stay with their family.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 1:21 PM

2021-11-18T13:21:38-05:00

I was happy and blessed to come back alive. I wanted to stop once I got off the plane and kiss the ground!

Response by SGT Gregory Lowery made Nov 18 at 2021 1:57 PM

2021-11-18T13:57:22-05:00

It was a difficult time. I had grown so accustomed to mortar attacks any loud sounds and I was reaching for my cavalier and body armor. It took some time to acclimate back to civilian life. Honestly left me longing for the excitement of it all. Sounds crazy I know. Truly missed the soldiers I deployed with because it felt like no one understood me. I struggled with loneliness alot.

Response by SGT Erin Mcadams made Nov 18 at 2021 2:41 PM

2021-11-18T14:41:52-05:00

after 10 yrs, 2 overseas tours, I felt it was time to go home. When I got there & knocked on my parents door, my dad answered, His first words were, What the F%#k do you want. Nothing was my response & went about transitioning back into civilian life. It took another 8 yrs to do so, That's when I decided to start my own business in another state. I'm still doing it, Electrical Contractor. My family turned into people you don't want to know, My friends and fellow Veterans have been my family & I'm enjoying life.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 2:55 PM

2021-11-18T14:55:09-05:00

Coming home from a deployment always felt sort of surreal. For me it always felt like time stopped back home (even though I know it didn't) and things should be exactly how I left them. This of course was not always the case. I had to compartmentalize that people grew, family changed, and aspects of the life I left had altered one way or the other.

Response by SSG Margaret Jacobson made Nov 18 at 2021 3:28 PM

2021-11-18T15:28:26-05:00

Relief that I made it back, but also very uncertain of the future and what I should be doing with my life (Reservist).

Response by SFC Donald Shilo made Nov 18 at 2021 4:15 PM

2021-11-18T16:15:35-05:00

Weary of the troubles in the world, but brightened by those I love.

Response by PO3 Trinkette Bishop made Nov 18 at 2021 6:21 PM

2021-11-18T18:21:46-05:00

I was pretty nervous coming home but so enjoyed being able to have freedom once again

Response by SPC Sandra Allen made Nov 18 at 2021 11:34 PM

2021-11-18T23:34:12-05:00

My experience is different from my fellow soldiers. I was not allowed to go on deployment. When we had to go through our physicals prior to leaving the doctors rejected me from leaving. I had to stay behind with my sister company, I felt so humiliated and ashamed but there was nothing I could do. To make matters worse the company I was left with did not treat me very well either. I was ready to shot somebody there as we were getting ready to go to the range. But then I was recalled back to my company, thankfully, as they were coming back from deployment.

Response by MSgt Ray Hill made Nov 19 at 2021 9:07 AM

2021-11-19T09:07:26-05:00

Returning home from my very first deployment (Desert Storm), I had very mixed feelings and much uncertainty about how I would fit in and function as a husband and a father after being away for 7 months. My wife and I had only been married for 4 months when I left, and we had a 3 month old daughter. When I returned home, our daughter didn't know me and wanted nothing to do with me for several days. It hurt my heart to be rejected. The more difficult part was trying to figure out how to reengage with my wife and do my part after her having to do for herself for so long. They learn how to get along without us. It's just a very difficult situation, for which there was not much training or preparation for at the time. But I'm happy to say that we were able to work through it, and we have been happily married for 31 years.

Response by PO3 Chris Nichols made Nov 19 at 2021 9:38 AM

2021-11-19T09:38:24-05:00

Coming home from our 89' med cruise was amazing. I had such a great time on that cruise, but seeing the port of Norfolk on the horizon made me feel like I was getting ready to head to the moon. In my shop, someone put in the Guns n' Roses song "Paradise City" and turned it up as we were mooring. The anticipation of seeing my loved ones was overwhelming - I can still envision it to this day.

Response by SGT Nathan Hunt made Nov 19 at 2021 2:49 PM

2021-11-19T14:49:03-05:00

Apprehensive, not knowing if my son would recognize me.

Response by SGT Peter Schaefer made Nov 19 at 2021 10:27 PM

2021-11-19T22:27:27-05:00

Ironically, everytime my spouse and I got into a squabble the Army sent me out on maneuvers. After having been in the field, I was welcomed home as if we were on a second honeymoon. We couldn't even remember why we'd been fighting before I left.

Response by CPL Leslie. Shaw made Nov 21 at 2021 4:18 AM

2021-11-21T04:18:10-05:00

I felt proud having did something that most Americans will never have the opportunity to do. Having served my country, is a. Special feeling that's hard to put into words

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2021 5:02 PM

2021-11-21T17:02:40-05:00

It felt like I had achieved a great feat and was happy to finally have some downtime.

Response by SPC Robert Jennett made Nov 21 at 2021 6:04 PM

2021-11-21T18:04:02-05:00

I felt a sense of satisfaction that I had just completed one of the toughest things I had ever done in my life. Also had college, via the Post 911 GI Bill, to look forward to soon after i got back. My entire extended family met me at the airport terminal in my home town when I came home on leave soon after arriving in the US, which was pretty cool.

Response by PO3 Josh T made Nov 21 at 2021 8:30 PM

2021-11-21T20:30:02-05:00

I never gave it much thought. I've been deployed twice, only one real deployment though. That was Iraq from 2009 to 2010. Coming back didn't really give me any pause. I didn't have the support of my family, so most of my support came from entertainment. So whether I was in the States or Deployed, it basically felt the same. In some cases, there was even security in it, at least for my second deployment. I am very happy with my experiences and consider myself lucky to have been able to serve and return home.

Response by SPC Louis Terranova made Nov 26 at 2021 11:26 AM

2021-11-26T11:26:11-05:00

Coming home to see my girl friend and family again. Watching the protesters calling us baby killers and knowing that I was. The VA saved my life when they treated me for 100% PTSD.I am lucky to be here today.

Response by SP5 Timmie Kittleson made Nov 27 at 2021 2:00 PM

2021-11-27T14:00:23-05:00

I felt lost. Everything that I expected on my return from Vietnam was completely different. I felt as though my family and friends did not understand what I had been through. I was medically evacuated from Vietnam to Fort Lewis, Washington, which was closer to family. Most family treated me as though I hadn't even been gone. It was not a warm welcome home.

Response by SFC Bryan Stetzer made Dec 1 at 2021 12:52 AM

2021-12-01T00:52:38-05:00

So, this is a tough one, because there's a lot of pieces, and so much depends on individual experiences. For me, there were two things that were just incredibly difficult to deal with. First was that everyone would ask me about "what was it like?". Problem was none of them could begin to understand it. Not their fault, they just had to frame of reference, no comparable experience to relate it to. So, at first I would try to tell them about it, but generally after a few minutes, they would start to kind of glaze over and lose the thread. The worst example was right after I got back and went out with some friends. I was talking about some of the just terrible things we saw, really trying to make them understand, and when I finished one of them looks at me and says "Man, what a buzz kill!". I pretty much quit trying after that.

The other piece, which is related and probably worse in some ways, is what I call the "temporal disconnect." Basically, when you deploy, it's almost like you died for most of your friends and family. You're gone for a year (give or take), and even with email and the occasional phone call, you're still out of the picture. For them, life continues. They go to work, go out, meet new people, have new experiences, etc. etc. etc. Meanwhile, for you, life has just stopped. I mean, you're deployed somewhere doing your mission, trying not to get killed, taking care of your people, etc., but your "home life" came to a halt the moment you left. So, you spend your year just thinking how awesome it's going to be when you get home. You're going to see your friends, go out, party, whatever, and it's going to be great! Then reality hits. You get home and all your friends and acquaintances have moved on. They have new friends or significant others that you've never met. They have new shared experiences that you're not a part of. They have a whole year of experiences that you don't. And while you've been thinking of all the time you can spend hanging out, they have lives and don't have the time you thought they would. Plus, you're a different person in many ways. You call and they're busy. You go out, and they're talking about things you aren't a part of. You feel left out, left behind. And you resent it. You deserve better. You've spent a year risking your frigging LIFE to defend them, and they just don't seem to understand or care. It can be even worse if you have young kids (mine was 2 on my first deployment). You've missed everything, and they may not even remember who you are! Not sure if this sounds familiar to anyone else, but that was my experience.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2021 2:08 PM

2021-12-02T14:08:27-05:00

Congratulations to Cpl David Langford, SGT Linsey Anderson, PO2 Jenny Wu, SGT Johnnie Young, and SMSgt Kristen Stanley! You've all won a $100 Amazon gift card! An e-gift card will be sent to the email address associated with your RallyPoint account.

Thanks to all who participated and shared!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 2 at 2021 3:46 PM

2021-12-02T15:46:21-05:00

Everything felt new for a week.

Response by SGT James Lansberry made Dec 3 at 2021 7:09 PM

2021-12-03T19:09:01-05:00

Like I zoomed to the top of the class and left all the home folk behind. Except my Dad and older brother. They were combat vets. It was like with just looks to each other, we we’re communicating. It was weird .

Response by SrA Barbara Johnson made Dec 13 at 2021 2:34 PM

2021-12-13T14:34:25-05:00

Grateful!

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Jan 10 at 2022 5:17 PM

2022-01-10T17:17:55-05:00

Simply very glad to be home.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Jan 13 at 2022 5:40 AM

2022-01-13T05:40:26-05:00

I returned from Iraq in 2004. 4thID did a "heroes welcome" thing for troops returning from there in one of the gyms on Fort Hood. We ran in, assembled in a formation, saluted the flag, listened to a lady sing the National Anthem, then we were dismissed. I tried looking for my family but couldn't see them. I shook an officer's hand, got a hug by some lady, then just when I decided I was going to walk home, I saw my son(he was 3), and he reached out for me to grab him. Then I saw everyone else(wife, daughter, and Father-in-Law). As strange as this sounds, part of this reminded me of Heartbreak Ridge. Throughout the whole thing, I was just glad that my fellow NCO's and I brought our guys back alive.

Response by COL Victor Hagan made Jan 26 at 2022 1:34 PM

2022-01-26T13:34:18-05:00

I was personally glad to be home and ready to get on with my life each time.

Response by SGT James Hammons made Jan 26 at 2022 9:48 PM

2022-01-26T21:48:37-05:00

Lost, angry and out of place. Really Angry and I got out in 2004. I am doing a little better know, but the world left me behind with my brothers and sisters who served with me. Civilian adjustment is still rough.

Response by SFC Glenn Boyer made Jan 27 at 2022 12:39 PM

2022-01-27T12:39:39-05:00

When I came back from Vietnam in Dec 1970 we flew into Cal. With all the hippies throwing stuff at us and calling us names. I was shocked and dismayed but in a hurry to get home to a new wife and new baby daughter. Surprised my wife at 2 in the morn. She was ecstatic to have me home. Couple a days later went down to the neighbor hood bar we all hang out at. Couple 0f my old high school buddies ask me were I had been. To;d them I just got baxk for the Nam. They got up and moved to another table. Went I went to my permanent duty assign. I had a little over a year left. I re-up so I could be comfortable with people who had the same experiences as me. I was not a combat soldier but I did do everything I was told to do the best that I could and I’m a proud VIETNAM VET.

Response by Cpl Craig Howard made Jan 27 at 2022 3:06 PM

2022-01-27T15:06:39-05:00

I was in the 1st Gulf War starting With Desert Shield through the end f combat. We had been on deployment for almost 6 months prior to the War starting, so we were extended on the time away. I had a 6 month old boy when I left, and had not seen the majority of my family for better than a year prior to deploying. I was so proud of what had done, and of the job my unit did, but was elated to be returning home to see my wife and son. It was short lived. My wife had left me while deployed, and claims her boyfriend informed me in a letter. (Never received a letter.) She did not support President Bush's position on this conflict, and didn't understand why I didn't quit and just come home. I retrospect, I didn't think of how hard it is on the Military family when I chose my wife. She was not cut out for the role of Military Spouse. I am still proud of what I did, and I have a better understanding of what the Vets in my family have been through. (Dad was Navy in the Defense of Taiwan, and my Uncle was Air Force in Viet Nam.) I would have done some things different, but I am great with my son, have a loving wife of 25+ years. (Not the same one) I choose to remember the time where I felt the best from that time.

Response by SMSgt Michael Gleason made Jan 27 at 2022 4:43 PM

2022-01-27T16:43:26-05:00

I arrived in South Korea as an Army PVT/E1 in November, 1968, fresh out of AIT. I was assigned to the 7th Infantry Division at Camp Casey in TongDuCheon, about seven miles South of the DMZ. I'd always had a "fascination" with "things Oriental", so I was especially pleased to BE in South Korea (and not Vietnam, or even in Germany, for that matter). Because Camp Casey was considered to be in a "tactical zone" (which stretched from Seoul to the DMZ), we couldn't have dependents or POVs, and we had to be in uniform any time we went off post. In spite of that, I grew quite fond of South Korea, and VERY fond of the South Koreans (a sentiment which continues to this day). Initially earning about $68/month, a phone call to the West Coast of the U.S. was $13/minute - plus the toll to the East, where I was from. I didn't talk with anyone in the U.S. for the whole time I was in Korea.

In January, 1970, as a SP5/E5, I returned to CONUS. In my absence, mini-skirts came into being, men had long hair and lots of facial hair, "hippies" were anywhere one looked, psychedelic music was prolific, all three major American auto manufacturers had models and sizes that didn't exist in 1968, McDonald's restaurants seemed to be EVERYwhere, driving more than 30 mph (and at night!) was frightening - especially on those roads that had more than one lane in each direction - anti-military sentiment (largely due to the U.S. being in Vietnam) was palpable, and, worst of all, the "average American" didn't seem to have ANY respect for the U.S. Military. In summary, returning to the U.S. was a greater culture shock than going to Korea.

Response by PO3 Alex Shamis made Jan 28 at 2022 1:28 PM

2022-01-28T13:28:21-05:00

I did a lot of ecstacy pills and cocaine and drank, and had lots of sex.

Response by SSG Michael Doolittle made Jan 31 at 2022 12:21 AM

2022-01-31T00:21:50-05:00

RallyPoint News
Can you describe how you felt coming home from a deployment or combat? Sure, it was not good... July 20, 1968 after 2 years in the Jungles with the 4th ID & 25th ID, then being called "baby killers" etc etc etc, a bunch of rotten eggs and tomatoes at our bus as we left Travis AFB.... Just a great welcome home from a very traumatic and deadly period both in the War and an angry society

Response by Sgt William Fulbright made Jan 31 at 2022 3:55 PM

2022-01-31T15:55:50-05:00

Honestly at first it felt fuckin great to be home then everything came apart at the seams.

Response by PO3 Marcus Middleton made Feb 1 at 2022 7:07 AM

2022-02-01T07:07:53-05:00

Being aboard USS Kearsarge and then the USS Coral Sea. After the first deployment (3 total) I realized that life had moved on without me. Music, clothes, cars, and most important family and friends. Some were uncomfortable around you, some just didn't want to be around you. So I just didn't want to head back to the States, would have crossed over if the opportunity presented itself. The comments were there but I just moved on. The hard part was when I got out. I went in right out of High School and really didn't know any life outside the military life. That was the hardest part of it all, learning what everyone graduated with me had experienced while I was in. Mainly education, thankfully for the Union building trades, they were my band of Brothers than. That is why I push for the younger members in now, to get a reentering education. Six months before they get out.

Response by SN William Culotta made Feb 3 at 2022 4:59 AM

2022-02-03T04:59:04-05:00

My return from Vietnam was somewhat interesting to say the least. If you are truly interested I have written a memoir and am willing to share it. Bill Culotta PNSN in Seabees. [login to see]

Response by PO2 Paul Decker made Feb 3 at 2022 5:17 PM

2022-02-03T17:17:12-05:00

My first deployment, I was 19. I still remember leaving the pier on an 18,000 ton submarine. It was 5 hours to transit out and the seas were rough. There were about 8 of us nubs going out to sea for the first time. We had a lobster dinner the night before we left and the boat was rocking and rolling, imagine a round hull back and forth. Well the first nub lost his dinner, then the second, and the old timers were making fun of all the green faced kids. I was bound and determined not to lose it and kept trying to keep it in check each one running to the nearest head, some didn't make it. Me, I chose to just hold it back and any little thing that did come up I just swallowed back down. That was the transit out. Then it was rig for dive, and eventually start the underway watch rotation. We were 12 on 12 off 7 days a week, in the 12 off time, you had your Preventative Maintenance, and had to do all your duty and ship qualification work and of course random drills, fire drills, battle station, reactor etc. In reality it was more like 20 on and 4 off. After 79 days of that, it was time to go home.
The most memorable thing about going home was the transit back into port. I remember, I was allowed up into the sail. It was amazing! absolutely amazing! the smell of real fresh air for the first time, the light rain and mist was cold but wonderful, the gray clouds, the quiet sound of the waves, so much different that the whine of generators and the clacking of machines, almost quite but beautiful. The dolphins (or porpoise) jumping over the bow of the boat leading us home, it was fantastic. Almost 40 years later I still remember how amazing how much I appreciated the world at that single point int time. Whenever I need focus on important things in life I remember the feeling of breathing fresh air and seeing the sun after such a long time, it makes the stress in life melt away.

Response by Sgt Bob Lamb made Feb 9 at 2022 8:22 PM

2022-02-09T20:22:12-05:00

Happy to be home. Mostly red-eye flights from Germany until LAX (1969). It was ugly and was close to kicking some butts. My savior was being picked up by a former girlfriend (in a mini skirt and my favorite perfume - married her) so didn't want to get in trouble. I salute those who served in combat. None of us deserved the welcome we received.

Response by SSG Conrad Sylvestrelamb made Mar 4 at 2022 1:50 PM

2022-03-04T13:50:00-05:00

Felt like shit , not many people my ethnicity saw me as doing a great job. The only great was un even my family ask what are you doing here. 2nd time even worst . Ungrateful som of a itch

Response by LTC David Howard made Mar 5 at 2022 10:55 AM

2022-03-05T10:55:56-05:00

For me it was pretty benign. I left Vietnam and went to join my wife and two young children who had stayed in El Paso while I was overseas. Most of my thoughts were of them, and especially of getting to know my now 1 year old daughter who was weeks old when I left for Vietnam. I don't recall a single negative interaction with the public during my travel home, but did not get a single "welcome home" either. And some of my thoughts were already thinking about my next duty assignment. I had been told that my early departure from Vietnam (two weeks before my expected DEROS) was because I was so needed at this next unit. For the same reason I was only allowed 15 days, rather than the normal 30 days of leave between Vietnam and the next duty station. And of course, when I arrived at the new duty station they were surprised to see me, saying another Captain had filled that slot but not to worry, they would find a job for me. 51 years ago this summer.

Response by SGM Otis Whitaker made Mar 5 at 2022 12:59 PM

2022-03-05T12:59:35-05:00

Returning stateside after a year in 'Nam was exciting. I did not take R&R after 6 months like a lot of soldiers did so I was really anxious to see my wife and two kids. We stopped in Hawaii but couldn't leave the airport. I remember I was solicited by a mother and daughter prostitution team at the airport. Once we got to Fort Ord, CA we had to change into civilian clothes to avoid harassment as traveled home. I don't know anyone personally who died or was injured in Vietnam, but it was a war that never should have happened.

Response by CAPT Frank Nice made Mar 5 at 2022 4:47 PM

2022-03-05T16:47:22-05:00

Clean!

Response by Cpl George Matousek made Mar 6 at 2022 1:03 PM

2022-03-06T13:03:07-05:00

I felt great and relieved , spent 3 or 4 days in Oki , and flew hone, wonderfull feeling that I was alive.

Response by PO2 Curmeal Broadway made Mar 6 at 2022 4:43 PM

2022-03-06T16:43:30-05:00

Returning home from my first 3 deployments were exciting and a great relief after being gone for so long. My first two were Med cruises, and both were extended by 1 - 2 months due to happenings going on at the time in that part of the world, I got great stories but it was a relief to finally get back to home port and be able to take leave and visit my family, by my second one I was married and had a wife waiting for me so that was especially delightful. My 3rd was a West Pac as was my 4th but both were during the Eagle Watch / Desert Storm Era of the Gulf and we were mostly on patrol in the Gulf where I was stationed on 25mm cannons instead of in the Sonar Room. We were constantly in the smoke coming off of the oil wells and we had no idea of the dangers that it was to produce for us, we returned home on time, but we were rushed through our RefTra to get back over into the Gulf to be able to fire our missiles at the start of the 30 day bomb blitz of the Gulf War. This 4th deployment was the hardest for me, because I was already starting to feel some of the effects of having breathed in the irritants and whatever else was in the smoke from the last deployment. I was no longer myself and was becoming dissatisfied with everything around me, unaware that I was not myself really anymore. I was honorably discharged in January after we got back through a early out program but I understand now that I was not thinking correctly when I applied for it and should have stayed in.

Response by SP5 Ken Roberts made Mar 6 at 2022 10:06 PM

2022-03-06T22:06:16-05:00

My home was in Southern Illinois close to St. Louis. I was numb. From the airport in St. Louis, Missouri. Took a taxi to downtown St. Louis Grey Hound Station. I was cheered up for a while because wouldn't charge me because I was coming home from Vietnam. The bus left from the Greyhound station to Sparta, Illinois, my hometown. It just seemed like I was coming home from a vacation in Chicago. My duffel bag and I walk the six blocks to my home. Mom was outside in the front yard. Seeing my mother really made me feel good. I just sat and relaxed for a few hours. Word had gotten out to my friends that I was home. I was really coming down to earth when I saw my friends. Only when I was alone I would think about Vietnam.
.

Response by MSG Richard Adams made Mar 9 at 2022 10:38 PM

2022-03-09T22:38:44-05:00

Coming home to a civilian world was depressing. The attitude of the civilians was not appealing. I wanted to reenlist, but I would have to take a rank reduction, so I sucked in and about 10 years later I joined the Reserves. That comradeship really helped. The soldiers that stayed in the military, had the military family to act as a buffer to the civilian world.

Response by Sgt Tom Gainer made Mar 10 at 2022 10:45 PM

2022-03-10T22:45:31-05:00

After Operation Hastings where we lost 27 of our brothers in 48 hours, being seriously wounded 2 months later, I was simply grateful to God for allowing me to return home alive.

Response by CPL Dennis Clark made Mar 11 at 2022 1:42 PM

2022-03-11T13:42:25-05:00

Military service members, like my father, served during the Vietnam era, and spent time over there, as a combat infantryman, in the 1st Cavalry. He came back home to nothing but hate and had very little support. He had been spit on, had rocks thrown at him, etc. I can't even imagine having to put up with that, when you are already suffering from a total of four years in the jungle (he volunteered 4 tours). What was my father doing that much? When the Vietnam war started my grandfather was bit abusive and told my dad that he was a coward and would never join, so my dad decided to prove his dad wrong, and signed up for the Army, immediately. He wanted to rub it in his father's face, by serving more tours than his father served, during WWII, along with being on the front lines. He definitely earned my grandfather's respect because not only did my father serve overseas but he earned one award that my grandfather never did.. a CIB. When I came back it was complete opposite for me. People truly showed their appreciation for what I had done because 9/11 was the one date that brought the entire country together. There were no political opposites, or anything like that. Everybody was patriotic. People treated me almost like a celebrity and although it felt great I also felt like it was undeserved. I never considered myself a hero. I was just a normal guy who wanted to serve his country, since I signed up before the attack on America.

Response by SGT Tim Tobin made Mar 11 at 2022 8:39 PM

2022-03-11T20:39:54-05:00

I came back from Germany after an assignment at command and control for all the Nike sites in Europe. I did not come home to any accolades. I didn't come home to a heros welcome. I came back being vilified and treated like a second class citizen. I didn't fight in Vietnam so I did fit in with combat veterans and the public at us like we were damaged goods. It took years for me to even acknowledge I was a veteran. It was so bad that after 3 years I went back in to the only family that accepted me for what I was. When I got out after the second hitch I was still not honored by anyone,I never expected a heros welcome. I never expected a parade. But I also didn't expect to be treated like someone to be who was damaged

Response by SPC Timothy Coleman made Mar 12 at 2022 11:15 AM

2022-03-12T11:15:26-05:00

Arriving home form deployment to the Persian Gulf War in 1991, walking in queue off of the airplane, while in gear at Hunter Army Airfield, I got a hand shake from a flag officer and a few rehearsed words, a small paper cup of war flat soda, and a stale oatmeal raisin cookie. End of welcome back ceremony, And nothing else since...

Response by PO3 Ray Fischer made Mar 12 at 2022 10:00 PM

2022-03-12T22:00:27-05:00

Holy Shit! Since coming home from Nam I can only count on one hand how many people asked me thi s question, and Ive been home for 55 years. This is why I have PTSD and have a brick wall up most of the time.
After we came home we were assigned to Fleet Week in NYC (my home town at that point). At that time I was 19 yrs old and was proud to show off our ship and shipmates to my family. BAD CHOICE! When we arrived at the ship protesters were throwing bottles, rocks, tomatoes, etc at us. I picked one up and threw it back in hopes of hitting one of them but don't know if I did because I almost got locked up. Hope I did!
Later that year I was discharged and as I left the Boston Navy Yard was told by the Marine Guards that a protest was going on past the front gate and to use the back gate and also change into civies and they will call for a cab.
Now home and looking for a job, forget about that because your labeled a baby killer....Thanks to Jane Fonda and her Northern friends. I have no regrets helping out to the boots on the ground with our 5 inch guns and shore power and would do it all over again if I could help!
Do I/we have a problem? you bet we do! its trusting people and our government. The only ones I trust is God, family, Nam vets and the Hells Angels. No Appoligies!
Sorry this is so long but venting helps dealing with the assholes out their!
Tks, Ray

Response by SSG Phil Lockit made Mar 13 at 2022 12:48 PM

2022-03-13T12:48:16-04:00

I came home on a litter.

Response by Sgt Don Griffin made Apr 6 at 2022 9:30 AM

2022-04-06T09:30:59-04:00

Happy to be home, unhappy with the reception. Within a month wished I was back there.

Response by SGM William Hall made Apr 10 at 2022 6:13 PM

2022-04-10T18:13:52-04:00

I felt on top of the world on all three tours to Viet Nam. I felt like I could do anything. Confidence!!!!!!!

Response by MSgt George Fillgrove made Apr 12 at 2022 9:50 PM

2022-04-12T21:50:42-04:00

I had 24 months in Alaska during a very real Cold War and three deployments.

The last one was the one I remembered the most. We were told what to wear and pack. We had to have someone bring us to the base because we weren't allowed to drive there -- you know the old Russian spy satellite thing. Weren't told what we were doing but were issued an "A" bag and I was issued my third set of dog tags.

We were loaded into the C-130 and watched as the last thing loaded were M-16s, M-60s and all of the live ammunition to go with them.

Thirteen hours in a C-130 jump seat is not for the weak at heart. Arrival in-country was when we found out why we were there. I was an E-6 at the time and learned at the destination that I was the ranking member of a team that had a mix of A/D Air Force, Reserve, and National Guard. There was a lot of tension just waiting and knowing very little.

At Bug Out, we flew out of country and returned to a base where I just crashed on a bed at a TAQ and slept for eight hours. Returning to home base, I friend snapped a photo of me about 20 minutes after I disembarked from the C-130, and I just looked exhausted.

When I finally got home, it was a feeling that I still find hard to describe because I wasn't allowed to say where I had been and what I had done. Then the big joke was a hometown news release in the local paper that said I had been sent to a country I never set foot on.

Response by LTC Ray Buenteo made Apr 12 at 2022 10:01 PM

2022-04-12T22:01:49-04:00

Like I did not do enough and failed.

Response by TSgt David Olson made Apr 28 at 2022 4:29 PM

2022-04-28T16:29:15-04:00

I came home from Vietnam, knowing that we had no business there. I had expressed this opinion and the reasons why to a high-level cabinet Washington official, in the Johnson administration. When my thirty days' leave was up I reported to my final duty station, Fort Lewis, Washington. In the last five months of my enlistment, I tried to prepare those 4th Infantry Division MPs for some of the things they would encounter, when the division shipped over some months later. Today, I still tell people my opinions when asked.

Response by SSG Tom Boudreau made May 20 at 2022 6:44 PM

2022-05-20T18:44:12-04:00

When I returned no yellow ribbons, no crowds of people, no bands just people calling us baby killers. I Rember getting something to eat in the airport and watching a man in a business suit eat, we kept staring at him, because it seemed so strange to see something like that. When I got home none of my friends wanted to hear about where I’d been. That’s why I talk very little about my experience.
.

Response by SMSgt Michael Gleason made Jul 7 at 2022 5:30 PM

2022-07-07T17:30:52-04:00

I was in a "restricted zone" in Northern South Korea, six miles South of the DMZ, from Nov 1968-Jan 1970. By "restricted", it meant no dependents, no POVs, no civilian clothes off post, no GOING off post without a pass, no "greenbacks", etc. To me, it was a greater "culture shock" coming home to CONUS than it was going to an Asian culture I'd never before visited. In the time I was in Korea, man walked on the Moon, Woodstock had "happened", "hippies, long-haired men, and mini-skirts" were "born", anti-military/anti-Vietnam sentiment had mushroomed, and the U.S. was a whole "different world". Disappointingly (to me) there was also no "Welcome Home, Serviceman" that I'd seen so many times in WWII and Korean War-era movies.

Response by SGT Steven Bolander made Jul 13 at 2022 9:55 AM

2022-07-13T09:55:34-04:00

Even though we had been warned to expect the protesters upon our return from Nam (70-71), it was kinda overwhelming when we actually encountered it.

Since the small batch of us who returned together all headed off in different directions at LAX to catch our respective flights to our home towns, I had a combination of confusion and anger starting to set in with all of the hateful yelling going on. That, along with the surreal feeling of actually being back in the states, really took its toll on me.

This may sound a little weird, but I began to feel like Nam was a safer and more comfortable place to be rather than being back in the US. A couple times I even felt regret about coming home. Go figure.

Thank God that today's troops returning home don't have to experience the kind of hatred and disrespect that we did. So, to all of my Brothers (and Sisters), both then and now, welcome home.

Response by SFC Kevin Strakal made Jul 13 at 2022 11:45 PM

2022-07-13T23:45:11-04:00

I didn’t….. feel that is. I didn’t care, nothing mattered to me period. I felt like a failure for not completing the mission of completely liberating Iraq. We did a lot seriously but when I got home I didn’t recognize all that we did. I applauded my officers and my soldiers but inside I was empty. The people we post, injuries to myself and those close to me, nothing mattered and therefore I didn’t feel. I actually took off in my car for about three weeks and just drove to “be away”. Married with a young daughter I couldn’t face them. It was a strange feeling to not feel. Even today if issues don’t involve a serious threat of death to myself or others then what’s the worth? I’m better but still face a lot of ptsd. I do care more, new marriage, reconciling with many people but it’s a long road.

Response by SFC James High made Jul 14 at 2022 3:21 PM

2022-07-14T15:21:03-04:00

For the first few weeks after I returned from Afghanistan in NOV 2009, I was happy to be home and relieved to be out of the war zone, but after that things became a little strained. There were times when leaving the house to go to work was awkward because I would often check for my weapon (which was not there) and a couple of times go back in the house to look for it. And don't start about sudden loud sharp noises making me jump and sometimes look for a bunker to go in. But when that started to ease up (with help). I began realizing that my wife and 3 yr old son had formed a super tight bond on several levels and I was not allowed in on some. I was just the guy on the computer screen called Daddy. I left 1 week before his 2nd Birthday and returned 1 week before his 3rd Birthday. I missed a lot of formative moments with him that I can never get back. I know for sure that is one sacrifice a Soldier makes when they go to war. He knew That I had gone to fight the bad people but he really did not know what that meant. Now that my son is approaching 16 yoa, that unique bond is still there and I still aint allowed in. No inside jokes and no unspoken messages either.

Response by CPT Kurk Harris made Jul 14 at 2022 4:09 PM

2022-07-14T16:09:16-04:00

We left the green zone on a Chinook to fly to BIAP at about 2AM. It was a short, routine flight. A couple of minutes into the flight I heard the gunner on the back ramp firing off the .50. I look out the back and saw tracers coming up, but they were behind our aircraft so I closed my eyes and leaned my head back to rest my eyes.
Later that day we left BIAP and flew into Kuwait. We were there for a few days waiting to manifest before we were sent through the customs checkpoint operated by the Navy. What a bunch of uptight, self-important assholes. From there, we were locked down for 12 hours before we got on our World Air flight back to the states. We had about 300 people all of whom were going back to Fort Campbell except 3 Colonels who were going to Forbes Field, Topeka, KS.
We were pretty exhausted after 15 months down range, but most of us were too excited to rest on the flight. We had our first layover in Shannon, Ireland. We had to deplane while the ground crew did maintenance but all we could do was wait in the terminal. No alcohol because we still fell under GO 1 which prohibited everything from Playboy/Playgirl magazine to any alcohol at all. After a few long hours there, we left for Bangor, Maine. We landed at just before midnight. We were greeted by several dozen USO volunteers who cheered us on and welcomed us home. I felt proud but so tired. We had been up for close to 40 hours at this time, not counting occasional cat naps here and there.
We left Bangor after a couple of hours headed for what we expected to be a three hour flight to Campbell. No dice. Those 3 Colonels got priority, and we bypassed Campbell to make sure they got back to Kansas quickly. Rumor had it that they had just completed an arduous 5 month fact-finding tour in Kuwait and Qatar, but who knows. We landed in Kansas, deplaned the brass and attempted to get back in the air. Murphy doesn’t just apply in combat. The auxiliary power unit needed to start the plane failed and nobody could reach the Air National Guardsman with access to an operational APU so we were delayed another 2-3 hours. In the meantime freezing rain began to fall, they had to retrieve de-icing equipment…more delay. After more than 4 hours on the tarmac, we finally started our final leg back to Campbell and freedom and family. 3 hours later we landed, more than 48 hours since the journey thru customs had begun.
We taxied to just outside a hangar. We deplaned and formed up to march into the hangar and see our families. I remember it as clearly as a dream. 7am, a dark December morning with gray clouds overhead. It was chilly and damp. We could see the light from the hangar and the flags hanging from the rafters, and the families holding signs, waving flags. The band played patriotic music, and the cheers were deafening as we entered the hangar. Tears filled my eyes. I was joyous, relieved, proud, and exhausted physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually all at the same time. I also thought about the ones who didn’t make it home. I was with a hospital unit. We only lost one of ours, but had seen far too many soldiers, marines, and host country nationals die. I felt like I had aged far more than the 15 months in Iraq. I also thought about the Vietnam vets who didn’t get the reception we did. I felt a touch of guilt for that too.
I know this was long and rambling, but I think the feelings can’t be fully separated from the experience. For those who have had the experience of coming back, welcome home. For those who never had the chance, may God bless you and grant your soul rest.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2022 5:47 AM

2022-07-16T05:47:23-04:00

It wasn't a deployment, but when I got back from Korea, I came back to an empty barracks room. It was too late to order pizza or anything, but there was a basket of things like a mini bag of Lays, a bottle of water, and some other snacks. I sat alone in my barracks room, munching on chips before I went to sleep. I didn't have the words to describe it, but the best words for it would be lonely and thankful.

Response by PO1 Don Uhrig made Jul 16 at 2022 11:04 PM

2022-07-16T23:04:08-04:00

Returning from a combat tour in Iraq 2004, I felt numb and disconnected. I was the Course Supervisor for a Navy Class A School, and was disgusted with students coming to me with small issues that were truly of no consequence. I took to posting the daily US Forces death count on my door and instructing students to report back when their issue measured up to those losses. Although I earned Instructor of the Year for my role abroad and on station, I still weep for the totality of that year and what it cost us all. RIP my Brothers and Sisters.

Response by TSgt Johnny Kirkwood made Jul 17 at 2022 12:39 PM

2022-07-17T12:39:44-04:00

Back in 1965 returning from SE Asia, stopped in the Philippines, then took a plane to the USA, when I arrived at Travis Air Force Base it was the same time and day I left SE Asia (this was due to time zones), then needed to take a commercial plane to St.Louis, Mo. where my wife and my daughter (that I did not meet yet) were and was told that all interstates commercial airlines were on strike, luckily and knowing that the USAF would find a way, I was asked where I was going then they told me that they can put me on a plane going to and Air Force Base in Kansas City Kansas and from the I could take an intrastate commercial plane, long trip but finally arrived in Sr.Louis and was able to meet my daughter that was 9 months old, kissed her a thousand times. Never forgot this journey.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Jul 18 at 2022 12:27 PM

2022-07-18T12:27:56-04:00

Well, times and attitudes have changed a lot since I came home from my first Vietnam deployment. I was stationed at a B-52 base in the Michigan UP so we were a bit sheltered and the locals completely understood the importance of the base to their community so 'tolerated' us. However because our first child was born 3 months before I left for that deployment we used our leave to drive back to my home so that my parents could see their first grandchild. Of course the family completely understood my mission in Vietnam but that wasn't the case with many of the friends I had grown up with. The military wasn't extremely popular to start with and when they heard I'd been flying B-52 missions the baby killer looks and comments were all to apparent and made. I broke off with several of my long time friends on that trip and have had no contact since.

Response by PO3 Edward Riddle made Aug 1 at 2022 10:51 PM

2022-08-01T22:51:45-04:00

It was weird. When we left Nam, we flew out over the rice paddies. When we flew into Travis AFB we flew over rice paddies. Boy. was I confused.

Response by Sgt Jim Mullins made Aug 2 at 2022 10:16 AM

2022-08-02T10:16:17-04:00

Coming home from Vietnam in 1966 I experienced being spit on, booed, cursed, etc.. We were told not to wear our military uniforms but we wore them anyway!!

Response by SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D made Aug 2 at 2022 10:37 AM

2022-08-02T10:37:09-04:00

Damaged, weak, drained of everything in my body and mind, fearful and then defensive against the abusive and belligerent American people. It was like going from hell in Viet Nam to hell in America and I was damned and hated in both places!

Response by PFC Steven Clark made Aug 17 at 2022 8:02 AM

2022-08-17T08:02:28-04:00

I was excited at first I mean I had made it all ten and ten then I got home and the loneliness set in I had been surrounded by friends and family and now it was just me and my thoughts

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2022 11:51 AM

2022-08-20T11:51:27-04:00

Like did what I sign up to do!

Response by LTC Scott McLean made Aug 20 at 2022 3:16 PM

2022-08-20T15:16:08-04:00

It's complicated, and it's still happening 18 years later.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 20 at 2022 8:43 PM

2022-08-20T20:43:51-04:00

It's a feeling that you never forgot once you are not in harms way. Any servicemen who says that aren't scared in combat is lying.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 20 at 2022 9:06 PM

2022-08-20T21:06:33-04:00

There is no greater feeling than returning home from a combat deployment.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 20 at 2022 9:13 PM

2022-08-20T21:13:15-04:00

I hope to get a chance to enter next time.

Response by MSgt Gene Jine made Aug 21 at 2022 2:40 PM

2022-08-21T14:40:15-04:00

1970 Vietnam, two of my buddies were killed. Then arriving in USA to be slammed with extreme insults at airport. When arriving home found my wife had indulged in Marijuana, cocaine,LSD, and living in hippy commune. She was convicted of abusing our 2yr old son. I took custody, and pressed onwards to retirement. I still have trust issues and always watching for trouble.

Response by PO1 Romualdo Ramirez made Aug 25 at 2022 3:30 PM

2022-08-25T15:30:33-04:00

At first I felt lost and confused, it took a while to get back on track with family and life. But at first I was in the way, after that I was able to help and figure out the plan of attack. I was more a partner in crime.

Response by CPL T.A. Nelson made Aug 28 at 2022 4:25 PM

2022-08-28T16:25:11-04:00

I felt numb and angry returning from Bosnia and Hungry. We were supposed to be stabilizing forces but everyday getting shot and mines being blown up during the night. No one cared and the entire situation got swept under the rug by command. The strange part is I felt more welcomed with bullets flying then when I got stateside...

Response by CDR Tom Davy made Aug 29 at 2022 2:10 AM

2022-08-29T02:10:42-04:00

When I came home from Afghanistan, we were met by volunteer greaters who made sure that our experience was better than that of our Vietnam vet brothers.

Response by SP5 Bill Merritt made Aug 29 at 2022 3:56 PM

2022-08-29T15:56:21-04:00

I had the opposite experience. I didn’t come back through Oakland but through Walter Reed, on account of having gotten blown up on a boat in the Saigon River. I had a smashed foot, which meant there was no point in my taking up a hospital bed, so I spent five months on leave hopping around the old neighborhood with a cast . . . which NOBODY would believe I got in Vietnam. It was weird how removed Jody was from the reality of the war. It this had been 1942 and I’d been hopping around with overseas patches and a cast, people would have bought be drinks. Finally I just gave up and told everybody I’d been in a boating accident, which they believed without comment.

The only person who ever seemed to notice was a bus driver at Cape Canaveral when I stumped onto his tour bus in my cast. He snarled at me to “get that army shit off my jacket.” Later on it occurred to me he was probably a retired lifer who thought I was a hippy . . . the one person the whole time I probably would have agreed with didn’t realize I’d been wounded, either.

When I ETS’d, I went to school at the U of Oregon on the GI Bill, one of the most lefty schools in the country. So lefty somebody bombed the ROTC building in the name of the “people” and killed the janitor who, probably, was under the impression he was a people too. I wore my field jacket with the overseas patches everywhere I went on campus . . . kind of a stick-it-in-your-eye gesture . . . and nobody ever said boo to me about it. Very strange.

Response by SPC James Ashmore made Aug 29 at 2022 6:01 PM

2022-08-29T18:01:12-04:00

Desert Storm. I felt like an empty shell. I couldn't think. Our post authorized something like 80% leave. Most people took it. I was one of the few that stayed behind. We did not have any equipment back yet. It was being shipped back to Germany from Saudi Arabia. We spent a month mostly sleeping. Get up at 8:00 AM. Formation. Go back to bed & sleep till noon. Get up & eat. Go back to bed & sleep till 5:00. Afternoon formation. Occasionally pulled CQ or guard duty on an empty motor pool. We averaged sleeping 12-16 hours a day for month. I couldn't tell you much of what happened that month.

Response by SP5 Jonathan Ugalde made Aug 31 at 2022 11:38 PM

2022-08-31T23:38:40-04:00

Truly Honored to serve our country.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Sep 10 at 2022 5:54 AM

2022-09-10T05:54:07-04:00

thanks for sharing

Response by AA Loreen Silvarahawk made Oct 2 at 2022 8:26 AM

2022-10-02T08:26:55-04:00

I never spoke about my service due to the hatred toward 'Nam Veterans. While in uniform I was spat on and denied entrance to restaurants. Even today I speak little about my service.

Response by SPC Henry Sproles made Oct 3 at 2022 12:11 PM

2022-10-03T12:11:01-04:00

I felted like I should be sorry for the misfourance of war..No Side wins with the cost of life..And the wasted time we spend away from family and frends.Take it's toll as well.You never seem to fine a comfort zone or to be happy any more..The only way too end a war for someone to be layed to rest..

Response by PFC Edgar Mosier made Oct 4 at 2022 4:03 PM

2022-10-04T16:03:20-04:00

Combat or actual firefight?
Some combat might be a mental health development or horrid experience...

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Oct 24 at 2022 5:20 AM

2022-10-24T05:20:38-04:00

I was tired, yet happy I had did my job, brought my Soldiers back home alive, and the first person who hugged me was my son.

Response by MSgt Thomas O'Rourke made Oct 29 at 2022 10:21 AM

2022-10-29T10:21:20-04:00

On arrival at BWI after both deployments to Iraq, I needed time alone to reflect on the previous six months of intensity. After 24 hours, I was ready to connect with my family and start the reintegration process. Visions of the people I served with were first and foremost in my mind for a long time and after about a month, I had adjusted to civilian life and regular sleep.

Response by 1SG Dean Mcbride (MPER) (CPHR) made Oct 30 at 2022 6:19 PM

2022-10-30T18:19:59-04:00

Three tours in Vietnam. First was in 65/66 with the 10th Aviation Battalion. Came home to a very ugly anti Vietnam society. My Aunt (Mother's Brother's wife) refused to talk to me - called me a Baby Killer. It was a very depressing welcome home! Soon after returning home, I departed on my second tour (196th Light Infantry Brigade). Coming home in late 1967 was no better - perhaps worse because the anti Vietnam sentiment was sweeping the country. Third tour was with the 5th Special Forces in 69/70. Upon return, I experienced the same reception as the first two tours. By this time, I had grown to expect nothing and was not disappointed! I learned from my first two tour not to travel or be seen in uniform! To many anti Vietnam protesters were waiting for a servicemen to vent their frustrations on!

Response by SSG William Bethel made Oct 30 at 2022 10:59 PM

2022-10-30T22:59:31-04:00

I returned to a 1st Cav unit at Ft Hood, after 8mos I got out only to be bored and alone.. I went home to my parents, as I wasn't married.. again, bored.. after 2yrs combat, boredom came easy. sleep along with no weapon.. very insecure for several yrs.. still life in the states was boring ... seeking something less boring got me into trouble.. 45yrs and 3 wives later, not so bored most of the time.. there are still times I actually miss my Brothers and the adrenaline rush of staying alive..

Response by LTC Robin P. made Nov 2 at 2022 11:20 AM

2022-11-02T11:20:43-04:00

Like everything at home was utterly trivial.

Response by SSgt Michael Bowen made Nov 2 at 2022 8:33 PM

2022-11-02T20:33:14-04:00

I have returned from both many times and for a time after getting home all i felt was a little out of place . Like i wasn't where is needed to be or should be . but it passes .

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2022 4:47 PM

2022-11-04T16:47:01-04:00

Great question. I've found a productive outlet for many things about that time, among others.
This is what I wrote about how I felt coming home from my first formal deployment,
WESTPAC '06.
If you like what you read, I've written a lot more. Started an Instagram: @vetamygdala
Thank you. Thank you all for your bravery.

Response by CPL Sarah Kubala made Nov 14 at 2022 6:59 PM

2022-11-14T18:59:17-05:00

I felt extremely ignored and unappreciated I felt like Americans were ungrateful for everything that they have and it made I felt like Americans were ungrateful for everything that they have and It made me feel bitter! On our arrival home there was no celebration no 1 there to greet us and then we did not receive any kind of help transitioning back to civilian life. This eventually led to severe depression.... I distracted myself as much as possible by going to college and over working, but now that I am older and not as busy I struggle with PTSD symptoms as well! I served in Operation Enduring Freedom from January 2002-November 2002 and I lived in a tent the entire tour!

Response by CH (MAJ) Wesley Sullivan made Dec 1 at 2022 8:44 AM

2022-12-01T08:44:23-05:00

I was an Air Traffic Controls in Vietnam. Though there for a year, I saw very little combat. Came home to McCord AFB with my parents and cousin to greet me. I felt relieved. Came home from Desert Storm to SEATAC . Meet by wife and 2 daughters and about 20 others. It felt good to be home, but guilty because I came back a month before my unit. My father was hospitalized, but lived another year. Relieved from Vietnam-- Guilty from Dessert Storm!

Response by SGT Harald Hendrichsen made Dec 1 at 2022 1:53 PM

2022-12-01T13:53:49-05:00

After my 2nd tour, as we were gaining altitude from Tan Son Nhut VC/NVA started dropping in mortars. Freedom Bird pilot announced it and circled the base as we all watched out the windows, reminding us what we were leaving. Mixed feelings. Glad to have escaped once again but deeply sad that we were flying over guys who were and would be getting hurt and killed. Lot of survivors guilt then - and still, 52 years later. Meds diminish it, but VA counselors say some just have to live with it.

Response by SP5 Daquane Mays made Dec 1 at 2022 4:39 PM

2022-12-01T16:39:47-05:00

For me, I felt alienated. When I left from Afghanistan back to New York City, I realized alot has changed since I left. My family never really asked me about it while I was home, which I was grateful for, but at the same time, it made me feel like they didn't even care. My friends either got lost in the wind or those who stuck around asked me the typical questions you all probably know by now. It was annoying having to explain myself alot about what happened that eventually I stopped talking about it. It got frustrating when I try not to include anything service related to someone and one of my friends blurts out "he's a trained killer" and now that same person is looking at me like I just grew another head. On the other side, it made me greatful for the little things many of us take advantage of. Like watching the sun rise and set, having a hot meal/shower, being able to have a moment of peace to yourself sometimes. I hope I'm not rambling on....
I did feel like a part of myself died out there and nothing felt truly the same since. These days, I'm just tired of people and society as a whole. That's the best way I can put it. Maybe some of you feel the same. Some not.

Response by AN Jerry Criddle made Dec 2 at 2022 2:02 AM

2022-12-02T02:02:40-05:00

Back in 1979 when the America went to Europe for six months and came back I had no idea that we would be missed. Once we arrived back home to VA and moored to Pier 12, a co worker asked me to come up to the cat walk to see the people on the pier. I didn't think anything about it so I followed him up to the catwalk and I was overwhelmed, all the people on the pier. I never seen that many people on the pier, I got so emotional. It was hard keeping the tears back. That was a fantastic greeting.

Response by 1SG Frank Peck made Dec 4 at 2022 12:07 PM

2022-12-04T12:07:28-05:00

I deployed a lot in the Marine Corps, I was on the Med in 79 when the embassy got attacked in IRAN, and China was doing some shit in Vietnam, we didn't know where we were going. I was home on leave when I came back, you could not even talk to me, I was so mentally ready to go to Iran. Fast Forward to 2004: I was in National Guard, deployed to Iraq, was gone about avg 15 months. Came home, went through what a lot of what you all did. Couldn't sleep, unless I was drunk, blah, blah. Deployed 2 more times in Guard, Kuwait, last one Afghanistan 2012. Every time I came home, there was less and less I wanted to do, like mow the lawn, and stuff like that. The one thing that always brought me home was my kids. One time I was at a gas station, inside the store there was some kind of thing I never saw before, I stood there for a couple of minutes playing with it, was amazed how it worked. Showed how much I missed being gone, how modern technology advanced. It was something that simple that people take advantage of. People don't realize how good they got it in this country until you been overseas.

Response by SPC Richard Rauenhorst made Dec 4 at 2022 6:06 PM

2022-12-04T18:06:45-05:00

Coming home from Vietnam is one of the happiest days of my life. A friend and some family met me at the airport and we drove to my folks place. The best part was a young lady that I met a few times before going into the service had started writing me about 6 months after being in Nam. We really got to know each other and I looked for to going out on a date. Oh my god did she look totally fantastic. I knew that she was the girl I was going to marry. We did and went through a lot of life until cancer got her the second time. But we did have a little over 37 years together.

Response by SGT Doug Blanchard made Feb 12 at 2023 4:58 PM

2023-02-12T16:58:17-05:00

I flew home on leave after BCT/AIT back in early 1976. I had no issues ar Dallas/Ft Worth airport or at Atlanta. My issue started at Jacksonville Fl,at JIA. We had to wear our uniform at the time still. Long story short, there were protestors at the airport. I had several milkshakes thrown on me along with other concoctions. I was also called a number of derogatory names by these idiots. I just turned and told them thank you for the reception and walked on to the baggage claim area and met up with my friends who came to give me a ride to my parents house. My dad, who was a WW II and Korean War combat Vet asked me what happened and was wanting to go out to JIA and try to find the idiots. Several members of airport security were fired over letting this happen and not intervening.
Probably the worst part of the whole mess was and is, Jacksonville Fl is a military city. At the time we had 2 Naval Air Stations, a Naval Ship base, a Marine detachment base. A large National Guard contingent, Army Reserve component, Air National Guard, Navy and Marine Reserve units.

Response by PV2 Whitney Scott made Feb 13 at 2023 6:56 PM

2023-02-13T18:56:28-05:00

Coming home from deployment, I was grateful to be home. It felt good to be able to fight for my country and live another day. I had battle buddies who didn’t get that chance so, just thinking about the fact that I made it, reminds me of how blessed I am.

Response by Cpl Roland Edmonds made Feb 17 at 2023 3:35 AM

2023-02-17T03:35:15-05:00

I didn't know how to feel. I was just glad that I made it back. In thae scheme of things I can say that God allowed me to come back for a reason.

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Feb 17 at 2023 5:22 PM

2023-02-17T17:22:38-05:00

To me my first thoughts were, are these people oblivious to what is going on overseas. It seemed to be an out of sight out of mind mentality of the people that never left this country. For me I was glad to see a patch of grass that somebody didn't have to grow and bigger than a football field

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Feb 18 at 2023 6:00 AM

2023-02-18T06:00:41-05:00

When I returned from Vietnam I actually returned to a home town that was very welcoming. When I graduated from high school about 80% of the males that graduated entered the Armed Forces either then or later as Officers after attending college. I even was invited to talk to a Youth group in a church h by My cousin who live across the street from My parents and whose Dad later ended up retiring as a SFC from the US Army. My own dad was a WWII Navy vet and served 10 years on active duty including the Korean War era. I wore My Air Force uniform for the Youth group talk and showed slides from Vietnam that I had taken Myself. Our small town also had two Medal of Honor holders in our cemetery and was very pro veteran with many road intersections in town with monuments to Town Residents killed during Wartime Military service. I also got stationed at the USAF Hanscom Field, MA which was only about a 40 minute drive from My parents house and about 20 minutes from an Aunt and Uncles house. A lot of the guys I worked with there in the 3245th Security Police were Vietnam Veterans also. I did live in the Airman Dorms, three story buildings on Base which were all two man rooms and had a bathroom only shared with the room next door to us.

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made Feb 19 at 2023 9:12 AM

2023-02-19T09:12:02-05:00

I'm a Vietnam Vet. I was in country '67 and '68 I was in I corps. up next to the DMZ I was at Khe Sanh for a short while. During TET I was at Phu Bi. we got hit every night for a month. When I came home I was really confused. But, I knew enough to be thankful to being alive. So, When we landed at El toro I got down and kiss the ground. That's how thankful I was. OK, My spelling is terrible, Hope you can make out what what I was trying to spell.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2023 11:20 AM

2023-02-20T11:20:28-05:00

Well my first deployment to Iraq, I returned a little bit ahead of my unit that I deployed with as I had to opportunity to complete Basic Non Commission Officers course prior to my next duty assignment. So I really never go to transition being over there and being welcomed home properly in my opinion.

When I completed my school I reported to my next assignment as a OC/T training men and women heading to OIF/ OEF for the next 2 years and then went on another deployment myself to Iraq after that assignment.
So in a way I was still doing many of same things that I did over there, to better prepare those heading to harm's way . Thus we trained many times right along side these men and women to help prepare them . Sharing some of the knowledge we gained first hand on our deployments and what we were learning daily from information being shared with us from the front.

Looking back, that strain of never really adapting from war zone for those two years added undue stress on my family. Yes I was in the CONUS in body, but my mind was never really at home. If I could have changed anything looking back. I would certainly somehow made more time for family and allowed them to help me adapt to how things changed me and them as well.

I would say my return after that second deployment was something special that if it was not for the many family members, friends, veterans groups, businesses that made that event happen it probably would have been just like coming back home from any other field exercise. In some ways it was healing , joyous and sad all the same time for many on that deployment.

Everyone I am sure would have different emotions on their return home from deployment. I would say to enjoy the reunion with your family, friends . Just because you were gone did not mean that they put their lives on hold.

There will be many changes that happened that you as a SM missed. So do not exact to come back make everything like it was when you left. As our spouses or significant others has to adapt to dealing with many things when we were not there. Maybe the way they do things is not how you did things, but learn to accept that they had to hold things down on the Homefront ,attend functions and deal with things in our absence.

Birthdays, Weddings, Family Reunions,
Passing of close family members and friends
First words, First tooth, First steps
First days of school, First day of New job, First Prom, etc.

All of us that have served understand that we give up many things that many others take for granted that never served.

Enjoy the reunion with your family and friends and take time to adjust to your new normal. That is best advice, that I can share with all you still serving.

For those that are still serving, I salute you for your service, remember many others have served before you and you are representing not only the USA, but all those that have served before you.

Response by SSG Richard Linck made Feb 21 at 2023 3:56 PM

2023-02-21T15:56:24-05:00

After being deployed in West Berlin in Oct 72 and returning on leave in Early 1974, the sight from the air of the Statue of Liberty and the Stars and Stripes flying on American soil was the most moving experience I experienced up to that time. After seeing what I saw in East Berlin, no one can convince me that our Flag is not worth honoring.

Response by SSG Richard Linck made Feb 21 at 2023 4:00 PM

2023-02-21T16:00:09-05:00

After returning from E Berlin on leave in early 74, the sight of the Statue of Liberty and the Stars and Stripes flying as I flew in to NYC left a large lump in my throat.

Response by 1LT Lincoln Davis made Feb 22 at 2023 8:30 PM

2023-02-22T20:30:26-05:00

The last five days were not fun no weapon waiting at the airfield expecting to be overrun once the plane was in the air way up it was ok we arrived in California on a week end processed checked for VD told to get civilian clothes coldn't leave the base PX closed good luck. got a civilian flight to the east coast wasn't spit on but the stewardess would not give use more than one drink she was replaced by a nice one who had a brother in the Army and she took care of use

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2023 11:54 AM

2023-03-13T11:54:35-04:00

Not my best story or worst deployment, but an experience I don't see otherwise represented here:

At Al Udied Air Base everything was beige. The sand, the sky, the tents, the trucks, the buildings (mostly modular), and the uniforms. Even the people turned beige (light skin darkened in the sun and dark skin lightened with a film of that damn gritty sand). Everything was beige all the time. For months.

And then one day you land in Germany and holy cow! COLORS! Red! Ooh! I remember red! And green! It's everywhere!

I never expected to miss (or generally forget about) colors.

Response by Michael James made Apr 4 at 2023 8:54 PM

2023-04-04T20:54:29-04:00

I'm not a soldier, I'm a writer and I am the only civilian to have an n article printed in Stars n Stripes. I've attached it.

I will dig up an article I wrote called "The Last Vietnam Vet."
Nothing against the crop of Warriors from Desert Storm into today, but the ticker tape parade make me sick to my guts for the Vietnam combat veterans, all are decade older than me, who served in the Nam. Where was their parade, where was their "WELCOME HOME, SON!"

The story is fiction but based loosely on the Japanese soldier in WW2 who hid in the jungle for years after the war ended, had no idea his buddies were back home. Like that guy, the final soldier stayed on mission until the Army and Marines could get him out.

Funny, even though I wrote it, every time I treat it I break down crying.... For the guys I worked with in the telephone company, Ronnie Kozera, Bobby "Rambo" Higgins, Cliffie "the VC couldn't kill me, these assholes (upper Telco mgmt) think I'm afraid of THEM" Parks, Lonnie Brown, the 6' 7" Black guy the redneck Ssgts would put on point almost every day they went on patrol instead of rotating it, Bobby Breheaut (BREEoh), all the way up to my dear friend Raul "Robert" Maldonado who took me on a journey to the center of the mind... Through Slam poetry. I miss him. He passed from cancer 7 years ago.

Anyway, of you missed the article in Stars n Stripes, enjoy it here. Feel free to share with proper name credit.

Thank you all for your service,
Michael James
* Article in next comment if it will fit.

Response by SPC Henry Kaden made Apr 12 at 2023 1:42 PM

2023-04-12T13:42:51-04:00

I was 19 after I came home from Vietnam. The country was in turmoil over the war so I hid it my service from everyone. I got rid of all my gear and even gave a kid my Class A uniform for halloween. I am still bitter about how we were treated. I was doing what I felt was the right thing to do and I felt guilty when I got home. I couldn't even by a beer after a year in a war zone. Took many years to deal with this and still do. Vietnam 67-68.

Response by CPO Cedric McCoy made May 2 at 2023 5:16 PM

2023-05-02T17:16:10-04:00

Coming home from deployment was extremely emotional and sensitive when dealing with my wife and kids. It was almost like I was a stranger in my own home, attempting to reincorporate myself into the family routine. Adjusting was occasionally intimidating, as I had to learn to love my wife all over again plus grasp all the changes from my growing children. The needs of the military and the family dynamic is something I didn’t incorporate or consider when enlisting. Nevertheless, the trials and the separation added to my emotional intelligence and improved my mental strength going forward.

Response by MSG Justin S. made May 22 at 2023 8:58 AM

2023-05-22T08:58:05-04:00

When I returned from Vietnam in 1968 I was not spit on or physically accosted. There was plenty of idiots doing a lot of yelling and saying stupid stuff at the San Francisco airport. But when I boarded my flight to Los Angeles the people on the plane and the crew were super nice. Had plenty of free drinks on that short flight. When I reported to my next duty station at Ft. Hood in the 1st AD got more grief from soldiers that had not been deployed to the war zone. As an armor soldier that served in the 1st ID in Vietnam and wearing that combat patch I was always asked about why no CIB. They always seemed to miss the 2 Purple Hearts I wore along with the campaign ribbons I had on my chest. I actually caught more grief from other soldiers than fron any protesters.

Response by SrA Ronald Moore made May 24 at 2023 4:24 AM

2023-05-24T04:24:51-04:00

Thanks for sharing

Response by SSG Scott Will made May 26 at 2023 1:02 AM

2023-05-26T01:02:51-04:00

When I got back from Vietnam in 1968, after 2 back to back tours I didn’t feel connected, I felt alone in the world. I was angry at the U.S. cause of what was going on here at home, angry that I lost friends in Nam, and just plain pissed off at everything. I knew my country hated me. Took a long time to do something about it, and a lot of work too. All these years later I still have problems from Vietnam, but I’m on a better path. I don’t think it’ll ever be over, but I keep working on it.

Response by Cpl George Matousek made May 26 at 2023 4:14 PM

2023-05-26T16:14:24-04:00

Totally mind blown, soooo happy I made it back. Semper Fi

Response by PO2 Stephen Brownell made May 26 at 2023 5:08 PM

2023-05-26T17:08:05-04:00

I didn't come right away I went to Hawaii for evaluation then went to my next duty station. But when I came for leave I was called everything in the book and spit on by the protesters

Response by PO2 Debra Wassel made May 27 at 2023 5:51 AM

2023-05-27T05:51:47-04:00

Celebrate with family as I am veteran and my uncle who pasted was a 20 year man.

Response by PO2 Joseph Abbott made Jun 19 at 2023 11:08 PM

2023-06-19T23:08:59-04:00

Let's see after completion of a Med/IO cruise deployment, the return home was surreal, like being caught in a time loop. It was as if I expected everything to be just as I left it in the states. However, everyone here at home, had lives, problems , their life moved forward . While mine seemed to be caught in suspended animation. Movies, topics, current events that everyone experienced had no meaning. I had no shared references or experiences after 9 months at sea and various foreign ports.

Response by CPL Larry Frias Jr made Jun 19 at 2023 11:56 PM

2023-06-19T23:56:09-04:00

I was confused and shocked by the name calling at the Oakland International Airport directed towards me ….I was at Chu Chi with the Wolfhounds of the 27th Infantry and I thought the name calling at the airport was unjustified….

Response by SFC Ray Carroll made Jun 21 at 2023 7:40 PM

2023-06-21T19:40:29-04:00

I was lost on how I felt returning home. I was glad to be home, but missed being in the fire of combat.

Response by Sgt Rebecca Zbichorski made Jun 21 at 2023 10:47 PM

2023-06-21T22:47:48-04:00

After my first deployment I had to prepare for coming home to nothing. My ex husband served me divorce papers while I was in Iraq and he was on MEU. He married months later and very soon after, welcomed a daughter with the women he met on the ship who was the cause of our divorce.

After my second deployment (with my 2nd husband) I was both excited and apprehensive. We were granted orders to California after reenlisting while deployed. I was hoping to leave N. Carolina behind and thought it would change the 2nd husbands wondering eye... Needless to say I am now twice divorced......

Response by SP5 Hector Alcala-Pascualli made Jun 22 at 2023 12:29 PM

2023-06-22T12:29:31-04:00

Great full

Response by SN Trevor Sanchez made Jun 24 at 2023 2:05 AM

2023-06-24T02:05:02-04:00

I was proud of my service, but upon discharge I was told not to wear my uniform home. They informed me that there had been "incidents" at San Fran Int'l Airport and in Seatac at Seattle. I did as I had been told, but it wasn't hard to see that I was a serviceman. My hair was "high & tight, and I was clean shaven but with dark circles under my eyes from long term lack of sleep. I didn't encounter anyone that even looked cross-eyed at me. Most folks that recognized what I was said "you must be happy to be coming home". There was no fan fair. Not even a recruiter to welcome us. Nothing. We got on with our lives tucking memories in our back pockets. I didn't even join any veterans groups till I was in my late 50"s when I was out riding my Harley one day and I saw a parade of bikes with American Flags waving stop at a gas station. They told me they were the Patriot Guard Riders of Montana. And they were the bikes that escorted Veterans, and active service KIA's remains home for burial, and then stand flag lines to honor our Vets that served. I joined right then. 12 years later I am still riding with them. I have also joined the American Legion where I have served as Ride Captain (both Patriot Guard & American Legion Riders) Vice Commander and Commander of a Post.

Response by SFC Kenneth Schob made Jun 24 at 2023 12:05 PM

2023-06-24T12:05:18-04:00

On returning from Vietnam, I felt relieved and thankful that I made it back alive and not in a box as so many did. You don't think of it as much when you're there as when you come back. And I was a draftee.
Ken Schob SFC (Ret)

Response by SGT Ruben Lozada made Jun 26 at 2023 2:39 PM

2023-06-26T14:39:02-04:00

Good afternoon. Excellent post. Thank You for sharing this. Having deployed three times during My time within the Military, it felt great coming home.

Response by SFC Howard Holmes made Jun 28 at 2023 3:46 PM

2023-06-28T15:46:59-04:00

One Word - Discombobulated.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2023 3:33 PM

2023-07-15T15:33:21-04:00

I returned to the U.S. confused, depressed, and anxious. My mother and younger sister both said that I came home "different" and not in a good way. They even said that I smelled different (stunk). I'd left the U.S. rather idealistic and naïve and returned a realist, knowing that the world was not as good as I had thought it to be when I voluntarily joined the U.S. Army. Later, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress and Major Depressive Disorders. Even with many years of treatment and prescriptions of psychotropic medications, I still struggle with these disorders.

Response by SPC Steven Nihipali made Aug 2 at 2023 8:51 PM

2023-08-02T20:51:01-04:00

Coming home sucked ass... of course I thought I wanted to come home, but I never did. Still haven't really... when you throw yourself into the work and no matter the politics behind it, you'll always leave there feeling less than you went
AD SM's shouldn't feel it as bad, as your PCS changes are about the same.

Doesn't really matter, now than half of me didn't come home, mentally

Response by 1SG James R. made Aug 2 at 2023 11:46 PM

2023-08-02T23:46:28-04:00

It was frightening. Life in the combat area had become routine. Living in a combat zone is not all fun and games but it was generally easy. I didn't have to worry about anything other than completing the mission. All the necessities of life were taken care of, where to eat, where to sleep, where to bath, what to do each day. All I had to do was concentrate on the missions.
Returning home removed all the comforts of daily life I had become accustomed to. Now it was up to me to purchase my food or meals, be responsible for the building I live in, pay the bills, and all the upkeep of the things I own that support me.
I have to return to a home where my family had become accustomed to life without me. The growth they'd experienced without me proved they did not need me as much as I needed them. The readjustment period was as difficult for them as it was for me.

Response by CMSgt Donald ONeill made Aug 4 at 2023 11:06 AM

2023-08-04T11:06:07-04:00

As a young 5th Special Forces veteran returning from Vietnam . Who had been involved in many combat mission at age 19 felt very different when I returned home . For about a year I still had dreams about being in Vietnam unbeknown to me was a form of PTSD . I was more of a loner with my friends but kept a very quiet life and met a very wonderful woman and married her . As I worked in civilian life I was successful and whatever I did and made a good life for my family . I was offered a full time civilian (ARC) job with the the Air Guard which I accepted and was a great move I made in my life . I had about a twelve year break afer leaving Vietnam and missed the military and joined the Air National Guard where I had to retrain in a Life Support AFAC . My Special Forces career was a great help for I went on to many Air Force schools such as Combat Survival Instructor for Air crew and Air Force Crash Investigating course . I went on and was Team Chief for Life Support for 19 Air Guard Tanker units and I did two aircraft mishaps and was on a Air Force accident Investgating board involving a KC-135 with five fatalitys .
In my job as Air Crew Life Suppot Chief I went on and did three more wars with my unit Desert Storm , Alled Force , and Iraq Freedom . And after 33 years total service I retired from military service and have to put in 54 years of marrage enjoying reitirement . But to this day I still remember being in Vietnam like it was yesterday and never forgetting that God allowed me to live and have a great life .

Response by SSG James Stodola made Aug 4 at 2023 12:02 PM

2023-08-04T12:02:22-04:00

My deployment was Desert Storm so I didn't see as much carnage as those from previous and also subsequent deployments. It was a real eye opening experience for sure and one that I did not wish to repeat under any circumstances. I was glad to be going home and even more happy for my troops. I was 38 when deployed and had at that point roughly 18 years in so I was sort of the "daddy" figure in their eyes of sorts. I got to know them a lot better during that time and couldn't wait for them to return to their homes and lives. I had seen and experienced many things that I knew that I could not relate to my family and friends, but only to those who have experienced it with me or from other actions. i felt it was going to be great to get back home and get on with my life and with my family, which at that time was not in good shape. I subsequently got divorced in 92. it was a rough ride from that point on but has worked itself out much better than expected and I am very grateful for that as it as made my life even richer and more rewarding in many ways. I felt a bit of culture shock to a small degree upon returning, being away from a life that I had known all my life after having seen a world that I never want to see again. I had reservations as to how I would address the inevitable volley of questions that would be thrown at me. What would I say, or would I just not answer. I remember not long after coming home my daughter's school class wanted me to come and speak to them. I was obviously torn as to how I would handle this. I met with the teacher and asked her what she wanted and had in mind for this talk. I asked her talk to her class and tell them there may be questions that I could not or would not answer or even address, in hopes that this would make it a bit easier for me and for them. All in all it went better than expected, as I had props with such thing that I had brought back that helped to deflect some of the obvious questions that would have come out. One in particular i was trying to avoid was "did you kill anybody". I simply did not feel this was an answer that was to be addressed at their age level. I finally got back to work and found that many people, co-workers and family made comments that " I have changed". Well yes, I definitely had changed, forever, good or bad it happened, and I had to live with it. it didn't take me long to re-assimilate but there were many things running through my mind constantly and many still to this day are still there and affect how I look at situations and people in general. Of course we were welcomed much better and more actively then our brothers from Vietnam, which I feel bad for every single day. We as a nation failed those brave men and women, and that will forever a stain on our humanity. My life since has been a rewarding one, many great jobs, six awesome grandchildren, and I am enjoying a good retirement. I know this is kind of wordy but when I get going my thoughts just keep flooding out..

Response by LTC David Ling made Aug 4 at 2023 7:07 PM

2023-08-04T19:07:14-04:00

When I returned from 3 weeks in Phase 3 of SFOC 1-78, I had a room in Moon Hall that I had kept. The first two nights, I slept with my poncho liner in the shrubs (very cold). Then I kept the windows open in the room for one more night.

Response by SPC Joseph Gibbs made Aug 4 at 2023 7:35 PM

2023-08-04T19:35:26-04:00

I felt that I didn't know why I lived unscathed and whole when so many others were broken. I vowed to live a life of healing instead of destruction. I became a mental health nurse.

Response by SPC Steven Jones made Aug 6 at 2023 5:34 PM

2023-08-06T17:34:53-04:00

When I came back from Nam the crowds were so bad that they rerouted us from landing at SEATAC (Seattle) to Edmunds AFB north of Seattle. They loaded us on busses and transported us to Ft. Lewis instead. Thankfully, I missed a bunch of abuse in Seattle, and only hit minor garbage when I landed in Boise, ID. The worst of it for me was being separated from the people I grew up with who didn't have any use for me.

Response by CPL Lawrence Nauta made Aug 6 at 2023 5:36 PM

2023-08-06T17:36:01-04:00

Tai Chi - is this available for veterans..?

Response by PFC Anthony Muto made Sep 7 at 2023 6:47 AM

2023-09-07T06:47:05-04:00

i flew from wasington to illinois noone was the i walked to the train noone wa the i took acab home noone was there i was alone tyhe whole time

Response by SSG Clyde Rainey made Sep 7 at 2023 2:25 PM

2023-09-07T14:25:46-04:00

When I got back from Afghanistan the first time it was very good because we were able to go to places that really cheered us up. When I got home I landed at Atlanta Airport then went to a really cool place in the midwest where we meant World War Two veterans and many others it was so positive. Then we went to Fort Campbell after that. Our fellow units and chain of command came out and welcomed us home. After getting back home we went to all kinds of training to get us back to what we needed to do come back.

Response by Cpl George Matousek made Sep 8 at 2023 1:29 PM

2023-09-08T13:29:09-04:00

It was woderful, I kissed the ground when we arrived at Travis, did not have any problems with any people even though I was in uniform. Semper Fi

Response by CPO Jack De Merit made Sep 8 at 2023 8:13 PM

2023-09-08T20:13:46-04:00

WHEN MY ACTIVE DUTY TIME WAS OVER AND I WAS RETURNING TO MY RESERVE CENTER, I felt like I had done my duty for my country try as a member of the military. I had enlisted for two reasons. The first was to pay my country back for all the benefits and freedoms that I was given just because I was born in the United States. The second was because I did a great deal to help my country win the war in Vietnam.
The Admiral that I worked for sent me into Vietnam 49 times. 48 of them were because of what I had done the first time. I killed a woman who was pushing her son towards a coffee shop with about 60 military men and women in it. When she refused to stop and go away and kept pushing him forward, I shot her. I was told that I had saved all of their lives would get the Medal of Honor. I said no and after delivering the documents the Admiral gave me to the correct person, I returned to the ship. The other 48 were to assassinate 48 Viet Kong Officers who were in charge of their Army.
When my plane landed and I got off to get my baggage, I was approached by a 6 foot 5 inch young man. As I was in uniform he checked my medals. He said that I was a Vietnam Baby Killer and spit on my shoes. I told him that nobody in the military killed any babies. I pointed at my shoes and said, can you wipe that off? He looked down and I hit him with an uppercut that knocked him out and I found out later that it also broke his jaw. His friends ranger after getting an airport police officer and said I attack their friend.
They were followed by three elderly men who told the officer that they lied and their friend attacked me. The officer believed the elderly men and had the guys friends carry him away. The three men came over to me and said that they were veterans and thanked me for my service. I thanked them for their service and we all went home.

Response by CW3 Willie Mapp made Sep 10 at 2023 3:38 PM

2023-09-10T15:38:10-04:00

When I returned home from Viet Nam, I was greeted at the Seattle airport by protesters shouting baby killers. I was scared, afraid and hurt because I fought for my country and did not commit any of the crimes that I was accused of. I fought for my country without question and none of these folks seem to care.

Response by CPL Terry Engel made Sep 11 at 2023 11:00 AM

2023-09-11T11:00:55-04:00

i was hit by a hand grenade and was done with combat. i went to japan as a patient with and open wound to be debrided at a later date. when i was inducted i took a chance and kept my civies. i had them all the way thru, in the bottom of my duffel! came in very handy. in japan i left the hosp. every nite and went downtown ohara. i got thru my stay and when ready to fly home thru alaska, a medic putting us on the plane marked me as bedridden so i had to ride strapped in a cot! when we landed in anchorage a business guy came on plane to offer everyone a steak dinner in town. (not bed patients!!)

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Sep 17 at 2023 7:13 PM

2023-09-17T19:13:31-04:00

When I returned from Iraq, the first person I saw was my son who reached out for me. After that I saw the rest of my family, including my father-in-law.

Response by PO1 Michael Fulgium made Sep 25 at 2023 11:12 AM

2023-09-25T11:12:43-04:00

Devastated. Got off the plane after a very rough deployment. Blindsided with divorce papers. Got home and she already had all my stuff packed up. Her stated reason was "I'm tired of daughter calling everyone daddy because you all look the same coming off the plane" (we were aircrew and everyone wore flight suits). Paid 16 years of child support (daughter was 2 at the time). After 35 years, ex-wife calls me up and tells me my daughter was somebody else's.

Response by AN Ron Wright made Oct 16 at 2023 11:42 AM

2023-10-16T11:42:44-04:00

My first deployment Coming home from the Med on the Forrestal after months flying with the Saudi’s to a pier in the states Knowing not a single person I knew would be there was certainly lonely as a young buck. Then I remember my Fathers stories of coming home after WW II. And just counted my blessings that I was coming home My brother was on his way to Nam. But came out of Boot camp with 9 pins in each leg so my only Vietnam knowledge is with my Brethren I ride with. And I thank them for being here

Response by SGT Tiffany Ellett made Oct 17 at 2023 2:16 PM

2023-10-17T14:16:10-04:00

Partially glad to be home, but also sad and overwhelmed. Sometimes I miss deployment where things were simplified, eat, sleep, gym, work, and stay alive.... but that is also the viewpoint of someone who is used to high levels of anxiety and trauma. Though I work through these issues daily, the feelings are still there.

Response by CAPT Michael Toleno made Oct 17 at 2023 4:57 PM

2023-10-17T16:57:30-04:00

I was certainly relieved and happy to be home. After a 12-month mobilization to active duty, which included 10 months on the opposite side of the globe and about 11 months away from my wife and newborn first child, I felt like I was entering an entirely new and different phase of my life. For several years after, I marked time by my return home.

Response by Sgt Jeremi Wright made Oct 17 at 2023 11:30 PM

2023-10-17T23:30:34-04:00

I got to the house and caught Jody in the room with my wife trying to slip out my bedroom window. I don't remember how I felt, all I remember was seeing red.

Response by SGT Glenn Killebrew made Oct 18 at 2023 9:05 PM

2023-10-18T21:05:13-04:00

Exhilarated, the flight crew really welcomed us home, but the best was getting back with my wife.

Response by CW4 Richard Norton made Oct 19 at 2023 12:31 AM

2023-10-19T00:31:12-04:00

I have to ask before or after being spat on?

Response by CW3 Debra Irby made Oct 24 at 2023 6:34 PM

2023-10-24T18:34:19-04:00

Blessed, lost, and a little angry. Worried about those left behind. I have deployed to different places through my career, my last being to Afghanistan, recalled to active duty after 911, and deploying fairly quickly. I have deployed before, but this return was different. Maybe being older, and also coming back home by myself. Ironically my last combat mission was knarly and ironically, I wasn't scheduled since I was supposed to leave the next day. It wasn't going well, and they asked me to fly. Of course, I said yes. I truly thought I wouldn't see home again. I think most everyone knows posting here how that feels.

Response by SPC Benjamin Hartog made Oct 29 at 2023 3:29 PM

2023-10-29T15:29:20-04:00

Following my return from Vietnam in 1968 I immediately sought the comfort of my girlfriend, Katie, who smothered me with affection and gentleness that was in complete contradistinction to my military service. Psychologically, however, I was suffused with depilating anxiety and unremitting grief. I was only 20 years but existentially felt like a harried and traumatized old man nailed to a metaphorical crucifix to which I was impaled in suffocating agony. Paradoxically, her father took me on hunting trips which served to exacerbate my PTSD symptoms. I would have preferred to find oblivion in Katie's arms but her parents provided us with seperate sleeping arrangements. Lacking the opportunity to find emotional relief in sex I resorted to smoking marijuana in the backyard while Katie's parents were asleep. I was a guest in Katie's home and I was restricted in my actions by rigid rules that severely limited my attempts to purge myself of my anxiety. Her parents were religious Victorians living in the 2oth Century who held themselves in righteous verisimilitude. After two weeks of frustrated inactions I left and never contacted Katie again. These were the travails of a returning Vietnam veteran who faced countless obstacle's in my attempts to readjust to civilian life.

Response by MSgt Janice Trojan made Dec 2 at 2023 12:49 AM

2023-12-02T00:49:20-05:00

I felt the world slowed down. Everyone was petty. I lost my job at Good Sam Hospital in Puyallup, WA. I should have filed a lawsuit. Some lawsuits are petty. I really did love my job! 10 years to waste, Not really my docs treated me good.

Response by SP5 Laurie Mixter made Dec 5 at 2023 10:39 PM

2023-12-05T22:39:38-05:00

I was lost! I was lost! a lot of my memory is due to a head injury! I did not know my friends or family anymore. I was mad and bothered by the fact I was now a disabled veteran. I drank too much, yelled a lot, and eventually came to terms with it all. After a few months I was awarded social security and after a few years the VA believed I had PTSD, it did take five tries!!! I eventually decided to go to college and that was tough because I stuck it out. I also started working online at Vets Prevail talking to people like me, after I went through their program! Vets Prevail helped me understand I was not the only one out here lost, I thank them for that! I did get most of my memory back. I did have a Stroke because Walter Read never gave anyone a CAT scan, so I lost a little more memory, but I got back what I needed. Do you know what, I am glad for the second memory loss because for me it was a fresh start on a third life, I could do a better job this time and not take anything for granted. To me every new day is a gift from God! ; ) Amen

Response by LCDR John Welty made Dec 6 at 2023 9:58 AM

2023-12-06T09:58:16-05:00

My adversary was USSR submarines. They didn't shoot back, so my experience of deployment in the Atlantic and Mediterranean was not comparable to deployment of friends who flew helicopters in Southeast Asia. A squadron contemporary of mine observed that my personality changed significantly while we were deployed. His observation was that I smiled and laughed much more while deployed than while stateside. I told him he was just simply wrong. He was not. Deployments isolated and protected me from a spouse who had no appreciation for my military service, for the fact that she did not have to work, for my intellect, for my deep and abiding love for our daughters, or for the fact that I did not use Navy deployments to explore for other women. My return from deployment was not, for me, a joyful experience.

Response by SPC Anthony Ferrara made Dec 7 at 2023 7:08 PM

2023-12-07T19:08:02-05:00

That's one of the reasons why I always say "Welcome Home" to any Vietnam Veteran I meet, knowing what they had to put up with from their own countrymen. Most of them were drafted, so they were forced to fight in that war. Plus, the protesters had no idea the Viet Cong liked to hide with civilians because they knew it would be hard to shoot at them. However, when you are faced with a life or death situation, you do what you have to to survive.

Response by SPC Rick Price made Dec 9 at 2023 12:51 AM

2023-12-09T00:51:46-05:00

For my two deployments: sad, ecstatic, relieved, nervous, anxious, happy—-and I didn’t even know why I felt any of that!

Response by SGT John Schmelzkopf made Dec 31 at 2023 11:15 AM

2023-12-31T11:15:07-05:00

while it is Summarized as not Credible, as with much, the Media has removed many Actual Events that don't fit the Lefty plan!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homecoming:_When_the_Soldiers_Returned_from_Vietnam

https://www.foxnews.com/media/vietnam-war-veterans-veterans-day-return-home

https://www.startribune.com/disrespect-for-vietnam-vets-is-fact-not-fiction/160444095/

"But Lembcke is refuted by many other sources, including Jim Lindgren, a Northwestern University law professor who cited news accounts that documented many spitting incidents. One example: A 1967 Bucks County Courier Times article reporting that two sailors were spat on outside a high school football game by a gang of about 10 young men. One of the sailors was stabbed.

Others:

• In October 1967, Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter James Reston's front page article in the New York Times described his eyewitness account of protest behavior so vulgar that spitting was the least of the transgressions.

• Even Medal of Honor recipients were abused and "spat upon as 'monsters'," according to the head of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, WWII medalist Thomas J. Kelly. Kelly recounted how about 200 anti-war protesters showed up one year to harass the Medal of Honor recipients at their annual dinner. WWII Medalist James Conners was unable to avoid a particularly obnoxious man yelling, "Killer, killer, killer." Conners decked him.

• Other spitting incidents were reported by Pulitzer Prize winners Max Frankel in the New York Times (November 1969) and Carl Bernstein in the Washington Post (May 1970).

Lembcke is an avowed socialist and has tried to use incomplete or dishonest research to lend credence to his government-as-pro-war conspiracy theories, to use the 9-million-plus Vietnam-era veterans as anti-war pawns.

Let's all stop listening to those who refuse to consider the facts. Our Vietnam experience ended more than 40 years past, and it deserves to be judged by history."

Homecoming: When the Soldiers Returned from Vietnam - Wikipedia

Response by Lt Col W Scott Arnott made Dec 31 at 2023 8:51 PM

2023-12-31T20:51:47-05:00

I was spit on coming "home" in California. New Jersey not much better.

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Jan 1 at 2024 1:44 AM

2024-01-01T01:44:21-05:00

Exhausted and stressed. Stayed exhausted but the stress dissappated over a few days,

Response by MSG Debby ODonnell made Jan 2 at 2024 1:22 PM

2024-01-02T13:22:00-05:00

As an intelligence NCOIC in Afghanistan, keeping soldiers safe took a lot of hard work. The easy part is you knew who the enemies were outside the wire, but inside the wire, that was a different story.

After completing my service in Afghanistan, I returned home, hoping for a warm welcome from my loved ones. However, rumors had spread about me during my deployment, causing a rift in my marriage. Despite being unfounded, it was heart-wrenching to see the distrust in my husband's eyes when he looked at me.

I tried to explain the situation to my husband, but it was challenging to find the right words. I felt like I was walking on eggshells around him, afraid to say something wrong. Eventually, I showed him all the documentation from my deployment that proved my innocence. However, the damage had already been done.

Our marriage was on the brink of collapse, and we both felt lost and uncertain about our future. I could barely be around my husband, who did not believe me and showed complete distrust in me and our marriage. However, we decided not to give up. We fought for our marriage and worked on our communication skills. It was a long and challenging journey, but we overcame it and emerged stronger than ever.

Gossip is a reprehensible act that destroys relationships in alarming numbers. Unfortunately, some people find it amusing to spread rumors without considering the devastating impact on the lives of others. It is disheartening when people overlook the profound implications of such conduct. When I said they did not apologize after the investigation was complete, my leader said, "You are the highest-ranking enlisted female here. If it had not been you, it would have been another." How do you get those words out of your head? Harassment can have far-reaching effects, leading to a sense of worthlessness and demeaning treatment. The impact of such behavior is not limited to personal relationships but can also extend to the workplace and society.

Unfortunately, the consequences of such behavior can be severe and long-lasting. We need strong and assertive leaders in our military who can take immediate and effective action against Harassment regardless of rank or gender. It is unacceptable that military members are subjected to such behavior, which can profoundly affect one's morale and well-being.

Response by SGT Charles Marcinko made Jan 4 at 2024 5:47 PM

2024-01-04T17:47:10-05:00

It was fantastic! Granted I was in a very short war, Desert Storm. But I had been there nearly 9 months before finally coming home. On our flight we stopped in Rome for a short period before landing in Newfoundland Canada. We were told there would be a couple hour delay before continuing back to Pope AFB and finally Ft. Bragg, NC (Home). We were all let off the plane to go inside the airport to eat and /or shop. Well, everyone of us were wearing our desert BDU's and were used to 95 to 120 degrees. When we walked off it was snowing and there was 4 inches of snow on the ground. All of us from the two-star general on board to the lowest private all became little kids. For the next 30+ minutes everyone had a massive snowball fight on the tarmac. The Canadian workers there all were laughing at us and everyone of us were very damp from multiple snowballs. Some officers were totally soaked, and I feel none of them had any regret by what happen. But we were all laughing and enjoying ourselves at having survived combat. It was a very festive time for the rest of the flight as a bunch of steam had been released by all of us.

Response by PO3 Ted G made Jan 5 at 2024 7:47 PM

2024-01-05T19:47:56-05:00

I was a submariner on a boomer so I'm not going to lie my deployments were fairly mundane and repetitive with the rare smattering of holy shit we have a right now problem. Coming back was always great because we got to breathe real air, everyone in town knew that you just got home because you were pale and smelled like "boat". We didn't get to go on leave to go home for about two weeks after we got to port so that was a little rough. The deployment I remember being the worst was my last. I lost over 40 pounds, couldn't keep any food in me I was not allowed to be alone for extended periods of time and I was doing a job that made me exhausted so that the only thing I could do when I went to bed is sleep because they were afraid I was faking it and suicidal. Turns out I had a medical condition called Chrons Disease and I was lucky to survive that deployment. Where I got back I got a really fun Navy medal workup and got told that I would be retiring from the Navy with full benefits. To this day I feel like the Navy, the VA, and a lot of other people treat me like my crime is that I didn't die for my country, it's really pretty annoying.

Response by SGT Robert Urbaniak made Jan 7 at 2024 9:27 AM

2024-01-07T09:27:25-05:00

I was wounded on 01/08/70, and at first I was taken to the 91st Evac Hospital. Then I was flown to Yakota Air base in Tachakowa Japan. Then I was sent to Valley Forge Gen Hospital in Pheonixville, Pa. The Hospital was crammed full of wounded GI's, and I felt at home while I was there. After multiple surgries I was released from the Hospital on 12/28/70 and given full retirement as compensation for my wounds. Going home was very different, as I felt very uncomfortable to bring up my time in Vietnam. I kept quite for many years, till I met some guys that were also in Vietnam. I joined the DAV, VFW, and VVA, and was able to talk things out with guys who also experienced the same as me.

Response by PO2 Rich Beskosty made Jan 17 at 2024 1:18 PM

2024-01-17T13:18:59-05:00

I was pretty lucky, being in the Navy I already had grown a beard and rather longish hair during my final months in Binh Thuy, VN. My flight went through Japan to Alaska to San Fransisco. While on route to SF, we were advised to change into our civvies. We were told we would be met by protestors and would probably hear some “unpleasant” greetings. They were right. It certainly wasn’t the home coming that I expected.

Response by SMSgt Michael Gleason made Jan 21 at 2024 4:58 PM

2024-01-21T16:58:35-05:00

It was a letdown! ...anticlimactic. I had mental images of soldiers returning home from WWII, and NONE of that happened. It was a greater "culture shock" coming back to the U.S. than it was going to Korea. The country had REALLY changed - the mood was "anti-military", women wore mini-skirts, men wore long hair. I was spat upon in the Seattle airport. "Welcome 'home'"!

Response by LtCol Bruce Janis made Mar 11 at 2024 9:22 PM

2024-03-11T21:22:24-04:00

When it was time to leave The Nam, I was offered two weeks in the rear and then a flight from Da Nang to LAX. Or, a delightful sea cruise leaving the next day on the USS Durham, a LKA. I did not realize that the ocean voyage was 21 days, babysitting the problem children of the 26th Marines. So, the trip included weathering a typhoon, a sailor disappearing overboard, a findf of hundreds of joints, a loaded .45 and the Captain locking the hatches because he felt an insurrection was imminent. Great trip..Got to Long Beach, note the 21 day part, we were met at the gate by hordes of hippies beating on the bus and the usual “baby killer” shouting. Realized the SPs on the bus were not to protect us, but to keep us from leaving the bus and beating the crap pot of the protesters. Great to be back stateside.

Response by CPT Mark Brogan made Apr 1 at 2024 5:27 PM

2024-04-01T17:27:10-04:00

I was in a coma for a month at Walter Reed. Missing half my skull and a section of my brain. I had no idea what was going on for several months. Once the gravity of what happened to me sank in, it took several years to accept this is who I was permanently. I was fortunate to have a very supportive environment but felt very disconnected from my own unit in the end. Years of recovery in hospitals and constant medical issues even now 18 years later, though I do feel very appreciated, and am very thankful for that, it is a lonely experience.

Response by SP5 Timothy Cooper made Apr 2 at 2024 1:07 PM

2024-04-02T13:07:25-04:00

Like a lot of people I get a dear Jhon letter week's before so I know no one be there too meet me. So I put to be a OC/T in Detainee Operations an get it and put ever thing in too it that was my hole world where was no time but that. an getting the new people back home .