Combat vets how do you feel toward non-combat vets?

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 20:13:29 -0400

I am a non-combat vet retired in 2004. Never deployed in the first Gulf war, Iraq or Afganistan. My Commander and my Cheif chose to leave me home to care for my wife. Not my choice but I appreciate what they did for us. She was diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis in 2001 and breast cancer in 2003. All of my buddies have deployed and I miss that little connection they have when we all get together. So I wonder is there any animosity by combat vets toward non-combat vets. My buds say I'm one of them it doesn't matter. Don't get me wrong I am proud of my service and have a son serving now. Was just curious. Thank you for any feed back.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Jul 21 at 2014 8:42 PM

MSG Wade Huffman — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 20:42:13 -0400

I agree with MSG Carl Cunningham . Most of the time, we, as service members, have little to no say in whether or not we deploy to begin with. You, MSgt Private RallyPoint Member , served honorably, not for just a term or two, but for a career. No animosity here; hold your head high, Brother!

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Jul 21 at 2014 9:42 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 21:42:29 -0400

The only animosity I have experienced (and had) has involved SMs who have tried hard to AVOID being deployed while others have been deployed multiple times. Other than that, I have the utmost respect for all my brothers and sisters in arms who have chosen to serve, regardless of their deployment status.

I agree with MSG Carl Cunningham and MSG Wade Huffman. MSgt Private RallyPoint Member, deployment or not, please continue to be proud of the fact that you served your country honorably and earned a retirement. Very few in this day and age commit to a single enlistment, let alone a career in the military. Not everyone has a chance to deploy and in your situation it sounds like you had a chain of command worth their salt.

"To us and those like us, there's damn few of us left!"

Response by COL Randall C. made Jul 21 at 2014 10:01 PM

COL Randall C. — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 22:01:37 -0400

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member, just remember the saying ... A Veteran is someone who, at one point, wrote a blank check made payable to ‘The United States of America’ for an amount of ‘up to and including their life.’ Just because your country didn't cash the check, it doesn't mean that you didn't write it.

There was another post where someone was talking about not feeling like a 'real' veteran because they didn't deploy. My response is basically the same - if we were police officers and I was put in a position where I had to use my weapon or was shot at, you would be no less a 'real' police officer than I just because you were never in that situation.

As MSG Wade Huffman stated, "No animosity here; hold your head high, Brother!"

I do share LTC Paul Labrador's sentiment - I do look down on you if you're one of those that are not willing to share the risks though.

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made Jul 21 at 2014 10:04 PM

CPT Jacob Swartout — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 22:04:01 -0400

Eventually, units will see less of those Soldiers who are combat veterans as the years go by. Many vets will get out of the service or retire out after 20+ yrs. Even if you never get to deploy at all, you can still be a great leader and soldier.

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Jul 21 at 2014 11:35 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 23:35:33 -0400

What you did serving your wife was as or more honorable than those of us who go "downrange". I know when I deploy, I clean up everything at home. I can't imagine how you would have felt if you had left her to be cared for by the rest of your family. You get a BIG THUMBS UP from me.

Response by SGT Jason Doyle made Jul 21 at 2014 11:40 PM

SGT Jason Doyle — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 23:40:37 -0400

I served in combat and I never had a problem with non-combat vets, with a couple exceptions. Deployment dodgers who continued to get promoted while everyone else deployed and they stayed home for whatever reason and somehow were now outranked much better and experienced NCOs and officers. The other is the gung ho newbie who is far to ignorant to understand that most of it takes to be successful on a deployment is teamwork, not false bravado. I would rather they work on becoming tactically and technically proficient than tell me how much our unit would have been if they were able to go because they are the baddest thing to ever wear combat boots. The rest of the bunch are fine with me as long as they don't try minimizing what my men, woman, and I endured during our time in the box.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2014 11:51 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 23:51:02 -0400

Thank you all gentleman for the comments! This is one reason I enjoy the RP format. An individual can learn so much from all the knowledge shared by outstanding officers and enlisted personnel.

Response by Capt Richard Desmond made Jul 22 at 2014 12:21 AM

Capt Richard Desmond — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 00:21:36 -0400

Vets are Vets period. We all took the same oath to defend the constitution with our lives with true faith and allegiance. We all sacrificed and all share the same struggles that the Vet community struggles with. If you raised your right hand, took the oath, and did your time honorably; then you are a Vet in my book and should be proud.

Response by SSG Robin Rushlo made Jul 22 at 2014 7:43 AM

SSG Robin Rushlo — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 07:43:29 -0400

To me is a VET is a VET. Downrange or not does not matter. Some one had to cover my rear in the rear and ship me the items I needed. That said I look down on the able bodies that never got into amy Military serve. I feel that all men and or women need two to 4 years in the Military once they leave high school so they learn to GROW UP.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2014 9:14 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 09:14:58 -0400

This breaks down even further...

There are soldiers who deploy but never leave a base and/or see any form of combat. Are we to distinguish these people as different as well?

My personal opinion then and now is this: We all volunteered to serve and knew the large implications that entailed. Some of us chose our jobs and others were funneled into others by MEPS and their arbitrary "only these jobs are available currently".

While serving in Iraq, some people in my platoon did display animosity towards non-combat troops. I had no such inclinations - primarily because if those soldiers, marines, sailors and airmen were not doing their job - I couldn't be doing mine. Combat troops rely on the entire system to function properly to ensure they can continue their operations instead of completing non-combat operations. Without those service members, we would be doing details and other jobs non-stop to try and maintain our operations and that is not a functional military. Combat support is properly titled - they are supporting the large scale combat operations and their job is of massive importance to those of us fighting. We needed fuel, food, toilets and showers, power, a radio operator we could rely on to be there when we called, mechanics, etc...

To answer your question - we also need service members back home. Our duty stations are not going to maintain themselves and you had a valid reason for being home. I believe that some individual service members/veterans may hold some animosity but largely it is due to ignorance. Ignorance of what all is required to keep military operations running overseas and at home.

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Jul 22 at 2014 9:20 AM

SSG Ed Mikus — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 09:20:41 -0400

A non-combat vet deserves the same respect as a combat vet in my mind, unless, or until they prove otherwise.

20+ years of defense of our nation should surely equal 1 combat tour as far as what you sacrificed, as everyone here knows, this life has daily and regular sacrifices that few other people can live with.

Response by SSgt John Vanderhoff made Jul 22 at 2014 10:45 AM

SSgt John Vanderhoff — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 10:45:46 -0400

If you served honorably, there should be no difference. Everyone has their role to play, and how you did that makes no difference in my opinion. When you start breaking things down like this, then it continues onto things such as how many deployments. Is one vet that did 3-4 tours better than someone who only did 1-2 deployments? So again, no matter what you did, or how many times you did it, it boils down to just doing your part, and doing it with HONOR!!

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2014 10:48 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 10:48:31 -0400

When I was in, women were not allowed to be in combat, I was considered combat support. Thankfully during the time I served, there were no major conflicts as there are now. I have much respect to those who have seen the battlefield. I hope that I would be respected for serving my time regardless of my combat or non-combat status.

Response by TSgt Kevin Buccola made Jul 22 at 2014 10:59 AM

TSgt Kevin Buccola — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 10:59:42 -0400

We are all on the same team no matter what - we all raised that right had and said the Oath.

"I, XXXXXXXXXX, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God."

Response by SSG William Teague made Jul 22 at 2014 12:24 PM

SSG William Teague — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 12:24:56 -0400

I think that every warrior signed the line and took the oath to protect and defend. It is often not by choice that some are left behind to watch the home front or serve in a non-combat status. I agree with Rushlo though. I feel that every abled bodied citizen should serve at a minimum of 2 years in the service of our country. Lisa brought up a good point that I think most of will agree that we did a lot of maturing and gained discipline through the process of serving.

Response by SGT BigredoneRichard Chiapperini made Jul 22 at 2014 12:54 PM

SGT BigredoneRichard Chiapperini — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 12:54:48 -0400

As a young combat solider we called the REMF's... as a experienced vet, I appreciate all of our service members who support our mission as a whole. Because without food,supplies, and ammunition, there is no mission.

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made Jul 22 at 2014 1:15 PM

LCpl Steve Wininger — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 13:15:35 -0400

I served 1983 to 1987 in a time of relative peace. I served in an infantry battalion and had deployed twice overseas. Our unit never saw combat during that time. I sometimes have guilt because we did not do that which we trained continually to do. I know I shouldn't feel this way, but there are times I do. Maybe this is why I want to be a combat correspondent. I don't think it is, I want to tell service member stories as they live them.

I have the utmost admiration and respect for my brothers and sisters, past and present that have had to answer the call.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2014 1:16 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 13:16:11 -0400

As an MP at Camp Pendleton Mainside PMO, I considered every night shift a combat deployment. Marines coming back from the field or deployment are dangerous and usually intoxicated. We were in life threatening situations many times just being on post. SO even though I did not deploy combat hostile combatants who were enemies of the United States; I did see my share of hostile combatants. Before the uproar ensues, no I am not comparing fire fights with the taliban or any other insurgent or enemy group to drunk Marines. What I am saying is that we all had our own battles, sometimes it was with the enemy, sometimes with our brothers and sometimes with ourselves. I am proud of my service and what I was able to do in the time allotted. my MOS(s) did not afford me the opportunity for combat time. This does not make me less of a Veteran or Marine; and in the long haul probably makes me a luckier individual than those who have many, many horrors to relive the rest of their days.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Jul 22 at 2014 2:00 PM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 14:00:52 -0400

I enlisted in late '87, first duty station was Ft. Carson, CO, 4th ID which turned out to be one of the only divisions in the Army that did not deploy as a division to Desert Storm. I "worried" for more than a few years about being a non-combat vet as it seemed everyone besides 4th ID and 2nd ID had a combat patch from DS/DS. However, I can not recall anyone I ever served with at the time that gave me crap for not having a patch myself. I reciprocated after deploying twice in 3 years with 3rd ID, I never looked down on anyone that didn't have a patch because I knew there were certain situations that led to this being a fact. I also know that just because one has deployed doesn't necessarily mean they are then end-all, be-all in leadership and/or competence; just as one that has not deployed is not immediately a rag-bag or one who has ducked a deployment. You have to evaluate an individual for yourself, regardless of whether or not they have a patch on the right or not, as to what kind of person/leader they are.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2014 8:23 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 20:23:09 -0400

Circumstances dictate in my opinion. A lot of people tend to jump to conclusions I think and assume that everyone that hasn't deployed has tried to dodge it for other than honorable reasons.

If there's a legitimate reason that someone hasn't, like in your case MSgt Private RallyPoint Member , that's one thing. All is forgiven because circumstances.

But if you're a deployment dodger or some cherry that's been in the military for less time than it takes me to wash the dishes, don't try to walk the walk and talk the talk that only someone who has deployed can.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2014 9:44 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 21:44:33 -0400

This is actually a question I have worried about.
I left AD in 2002, after my divorce. I had a one-year old little boy. About a month after separation from the husband, I learned that we were deploying. At that point, my hardship paperwork was already going up the Chain.
Went Guard in 2004. No deployments. In 2006, I volunteered for ANY place overseas. I wound up with...Operation Jumpstart. It was a state-side activation. Pretty cool working with Border Patrol, but definitely not the overseas assignment I requested!
Discharged after tour and enlisted in the OKARNG, who, just deployed to Iraq. Joined an Officer Candidate Program and stayed for two years during college. Deployment? Nope. Tracking a different route right now.
In 2013, joined a unit JUST BACK from TOD, and still wondering how horrible my timing was.
Before I retire, though...I shall DEPLOY!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2014 1:10 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 01:10:00 -0400

Overall no I do not have any animosity towards non-combat vets. The big factor is that you did not ask not to deploy. Some serve and no wars are during their time or they only had limited call-up (Gulf War) during their service. Deploying does not make you a better Soldier or leader or a worse one if you never deployed. You can serve with honor all the same. I would understand if you did ask not to deploy due to your family's health issues. I understand that and would still respect you as long as you did your job assigned to you at home to the best of your ability and with honor. What I do not like though when I see people purposely move around to avoid deployments. Those people who transfer out right after they hear that the unit is deploying and then returning when we are back or for rear-det. to avoid other deployments. We all have seen them. Others purposely get pregnant in order to avoid deployment or the very rare occasion those who get hurt to avoid deploying.

So in short I thank you for your service. You did your time and passed the torch with honor.

Response by Cpl Westin Sandberg made Jul 23 at 2014 10:49 AM

Cpl Westin Sandberg — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 10:49:23 -0400

From my experiences there really isn't a difference, the closest thing there is to a difference is other service members, vs guys YOU deployed with, combat our not there is a special bond from being deployed and knowing those guys YOU went with would have your back. It doesn't mean no one else would cover your ass, or that they are any less competent, but that they WERE there, and WERE watching out for you is something different, but to answer your question, I would say, no.

Response by Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns made Jul 23 at 2014 1:02 PM

Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 13:02:11 -0400

From where I sit there is no such thing as a combat veteran and a non-combat veteran. We all elected to lay down our very lives, if necessary, to defend and protect this nation, those we love and it's way of life. Because of that there is truly no distinction, so whether you performed in theater or not, you were there with all those you knew and all those you didn't know. If you wore a U.S. military uniform, you stood shoulder to shoulder with them all on either side of the spectrum. For any combat veteran that seems to have a probably with any non-combat veteran, remember this, if you cut, it is I who will bleed.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2014 4:35 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 16:35:16 -0400

I think it really depends on the experience garnered from serving in a combat zone. As a Public Affairs Soldier, we are the eyes on the ground for the Soldiers and the families back home. We tell the Soldiers' story, and we develop our own. For me, being in those situations has helped develop me as both a Soldier and a leader. I do not know if I had been in garrison for twice that amount of time, if I would have gone through the same change.

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Jul 24 at 2014 11:25 AM

PFC Zanie Young — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 11:25:07 -0400

What I learned as a wartime non-combat vet is it doesn't matter when or how you serve, a warrior is recognized by other warriors. Not only America appreciates your sacrifice, but any veteran will respect another no matter what the status, branch, or experience. We are all brothers and sisters who wore the uniform for our country, and we should be proud of that.

Response by SSgt Richard Kepple made Jul 24 at 2014 11:33 AM

SSgt Richard Kepple — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 11:33:09 -0400

So glad you broached this subject, MSgt. Borders! I have struggled with this because it seems most people (read NON military) consider that to be a "XXXXX" (insert any conflict here) veteran, one must have seen combat.

Admittedly, and now after reading all the responses ashamedly, I began to believe that. However, I know, as many of you stated, the importance ALL the roles of members of a service. This was emphasized by a WW II veteran. A number of years ago, my father was interviewing WW II veterans in the small, rural town in which he lived as part of a program for the National Archives. I went with him on one such interview.

After telling us about Boot Camp, his "AIT" (I hope I got that right?), and then posting in a clerical job, he began to cry. He remembered some of his buddies from Boot Camp who died in combat and wishing he could have deployed with them. But, as he said, with out him and the clerical job he did, those same buddies would not have gotten paid, leave, etc.

Also, from a personal viewpoint: When I was active duty I was at a bomber base (Fairchild AFB); I'm sure this applies to all AF bases with aircraft. Majority of people focus on the pilots. Yes, they are the "front line" that everyone sees, but EVERY person on the base has a critical job. Mine, as a Security Specialist, was to protect the base. When people deploy, my job is important because in essence, we were protecting their families; one less thing they had to worry about.

Thank you again for all who posted and made this veteran realize (again) that we are all brothers and sisters, combatant or not. Thank you ALL for your sacrifice and service. God Bless you.

Response by Sgt Joel "Mike" Dunlap made Jul 24 at 2014 1:13 PM

Sgt Joel "Mike" Dunlap — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 13:13:48 -0400

I spent 8 years in the Corps from 86 to 94.. Never was ask to go to war.. I felt I gave the Corps 100% while I was in.. I personally that all vets for serving.. I sure a special thanks should go out to all that where put in harms way... So Thanks!!

Response by 1SG John Paxton made Jul 24 at 2014 4:16 PM

1SG John Paxton — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 16:16:42 -0400

Many people have gone down range and never fired a shot or been in a position to where a shot could've been fired at them. I actually saw people walking around in pressed uniforms. A patch, badge or ribbon does not make you a combat veteran. In most cases I feel a level of sympathy for those that have been in a combat arms job their entire career and never deployed. I know that there is a void that any true warrior feels must be filled. I know many that have played the system and dodged deployment time and time again. These are the types that want the benefits and they talk the talk. But, are not willing to walk the walk.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2014 11:19 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 23:19:04 -0400

honestly a deployment doesn't make a combat vet but at the same time there is no hostility felt towards someone who hasn't deployed or was deployed to a non combat environment unless said soldier fought not to deploy. to me we all have a job to do and some of us just have to do a little more that's all

Response by SGT Marvin "Dave" Bigham made Jul 24 at 2014 11:33 PM

SGT Marvin "Dave" Bigham — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 23:33:52 -0400

Combat's not a big thing to brag about... it's part of the job and expected, if not wanted by any SM. I always felt "better me than someone else" while in the fight. My unit was top notch and trained hard to perform under fire. Any SM who served the US has save us from drafting some poor sod that doesn't want to go to war. I like hearing their training and garrison stories as much as I listen to combat stories.

Response by SGT Brian Littrel made Jul 25 at 2014 12:20 AM

SGT Brian Littrel — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 00:20:11 -0400

Not from this combat vet. Every one helps the other. People in the rear support those up front. If there weren't people in the rear, we wouldn't have the supplies and information (and pay) that we need up front.

Response by SSG Dennis O'Connor made Jul 25 at 2014 3:36 PM

SSG Dennis O'Connor — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 15:36:42 -0400

In my 20 years I deployed to several "combat" zones; Somalia, Haiti, Iraq, etc. but never saw actual combat and yes u was infantry. I personally don't care if there is animosity as a lot of soldiers were there but never got in firefights. It just never happened to them.

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Jul 26 at 2014 12:39 AM

PO3 John Jeter — Sat, 26 Jul 2014 00:39:48 -0400

IMHO One reason we have such a**-kicking forces in the field, is because of the a**-kicking guys backing them up! One mission - one team!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2014 3:53 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Jul 2014 15:53:05 -0400

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member you have nothing the be ashamed of. You served honorably and just because you didn't deploy doesn't mean that you didn't do your job. What you did by taking care of your wife was something that was just as honorable as any deployment.

Response by Maj Jeremy R. made Jul 29 at 2014 12:03 PM

Maj Jeremy R. — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 12:03:54 -0400

I fly the mission today and nobody shoots at me. My buddy flies the same profile tomorrow and someone does. It's sort of random that way. Serving is serving -whether you're in combat or not is being at the right place at the right (wrong) time - putting on the uniform and taking the oath says you're willing to be in that line of fire, but it doesn't guarantee that you will be. I wouldn't think anything less of a veteran who didn't see combat vs. one who did.

Response by SPC Britt Burton made Jul 30 at 2014 8:59 PM

SPC Britt Burton — Wed, 30 Jul 2014 20:59:32 -0400

I was never deployed. I would never want my term of service compared with anyone's who was deployed. Even if that person never left the FOB, they deserve more respect than I, who never left CONUS while in the service.

Response by Sgt Vance Bonds made Jul 31 at 2014 3:16 PM

Sgt Vance Bonds — Thu, 31 Jul 2014 15:16:19 -0400

None at all. Logistics and other support stateside are more important than most realize

Response by SFC Benjamin Parsons made Aug 13 at 2014 1:30 PM

SFC Benjamin Parsons — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 13:30:46 -0400

Though frighteningly close on several occasions, I will always be a Cold Warrior.
I try to be careful to make that distinction because of the honor and respect and appreciation I feel to those, many close compatriots of mine, who did work in the HEAT.
Salute.
I never once felt an iota of disrespect toward me from any of them. They are better men than that.
I know they understood, I was ready to kill and die if necessary too.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 26 at 2014 12:35 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 00:35:47 -0400

I call them brother or sister.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Aug 31 at 2014 4:45 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 04:45:59 -0400

I was in during Desert Storm but never over there. My dad was in during Korea but was in 29 Palms his whole enlistment. I feel I am every bit a Marine as the next with battle scars. I just have a few less ribbons.

Honestly, Im glad I was in back repairing aircraft rather than on the front calling them down.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 7:42 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 07:42:06 -0400

So let me understand this, you joined the Military but never deployed? Hmmm, there are several ways to look at this.
If you were to look through recruiting command a few years back there were senior NCO's that never deployed. Some say they were hiding in recruiting, some say the lucked out.
Then you have the ones who made it seem as though they're entire world was falling apart and deployment would devastate them. Or the ones that end up pregnant right before deployments. Questionable ? Sure .
My personal opinion is that if you joined you should serve, period! That means go where and when you are told and if your family situation prevents that, much like the lack of a family care plan, then you should be made to leave.
My wife had cancer and was in remission for 13 years, until 2010. I was deployed and when I was informed that the cancer had returned I was in Afghanistan. My command made me go home, but after getting there and making sure that things were able to be handled by doctors and she was not in any danger, I went back. Does this make me heartless ? Not in my book. My coming home showed her that my command and I cared for her well being. My decision to go back showed that we both knew my being there was not going to make it go away.

Response by SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA made Aug 31 at 2014 11:43 AM

SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 11:43:09 -0400

No reason for ANYONE to say ANYTHING to you except that you are equal with those of us that deployed...PERIOD! Anyone who says different has a chip on their shoulder and is probably embellishing something.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 12:59 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 12:59:00 -0400

A veteran is a veteran. I did not choose a cushy or a difficult job; the Army chose for me... and you. Your service was honorable and the military chose to not send you to a two-way range. Lucky you. Real Soldiers are grateful for the chance to NOT be at war. I can tell you that I have never looked forward to it one bit... I just gritted teeth, rucked up, and did the best I could to accomplish the mission.

My question is: how is your wife? You did not say. Be thankful for the opportunity to serve that your commander afforded you. The time you got to spend in service of your wife when she needed you most is a very precious gift.

Response by SPC Brian Aranda made Aug 31 at 2014 1:03 PM

SPC Brian Aranda — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 13:03:11 -0400

My personal view from the Infantry barracks...I'm of two minds on this, I'm glad I never had to go to war. I'm not a coward, I would have gone if deployed, but war is that place where people get killed.

I also regret never going to war. I invested a good portion (at the time) of my life and time learning a role that I never got to play.

Makes sense to me, not sure if anyone else will see it that way.

All that being said, I served and I am a veteran, no matter what anyone thinks.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 1:43 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 13:43:15 -0400

It seems the people that have the most difficulties with it are the ones who didn't deploy. I don't like that I have never deployed. I volunteered a couple of times but it always came down to me and someone else who had a security clearance and since the other person already had one in place they took them. I take comfort in the fact that when I was mobilized I was working promotions and helping soldiers get more rank and more pay for their families.

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Aug 31 at 2014 3:58 PM

LTC Paul Heinlein — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 15:58:41 -0400

You signed up. You did what you were directed to. No different than anyone else. Thanks for your lifetime of service to our Nation!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 31 at 2014 5:34 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 17:34:04 -0400

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member If a veteran is disrespected for not deploying what does that say about the other person? Does only the combat time count as service to this great nation? What a ridiculous notion. I was in for 13 years before I ever deployed. It would take someone with a very short memory to know that it was the selfless service of the Cold War veteran who kept the entire world from being vaporized in the world war that could have been. I knew so many retirees who deployed only once in over 20+ years of dedicated service. I knew even more retirees who never deployed. Everyone who wore a uniform is a VETERAN. That term is what makes each of us family. If someone wants to break it down further to "combat veteran" vs. "veteran", they are only isolating themselves. What a shame. Of course they would ALSO have to break it down further into campaigns, job titles, ranks, etc., until they found the very few troops that they would consider as their "peers". Well, more power to them. Let them enjoy the privilege of hanging out with their select handful of troops and spend their life judging others. Everyone who wore a uniform and served their nation HONORABLY will be my family.

Response by SrA Marc Haynes made Aug 31 at 2014 6:56 PM

SrA Marc Haynes — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 18:56:55 -0400

I was in during the Cold War and saw no combat, part of me wishes I had & part of me is glad that I didn't. I was a teenager during the Vietnam War & was prepared to sign up & do my part for my country. It ended two years before I graduated. I still enlisted because it is my belief that all legal citizens should do something to better this great country. I have been encouraging my son to join the service after college. If he does will be his decision.

Response by CPL David Riopelle Spencer made Aug 31 at 2014 10:47 PM

CPL David Riopelle Spencer — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 22:47:50 -0400

I show and have respect for anyone who wears or wore the uniform for any branch. It takes everyone to make the machine do it's job. You are one of us and you were dealing with very difficult times in your life. Many of us have no idea what you and your wife had to go through and we're lucky for that. Thank you for your service brother and thanks to your son as well. I bet he makes you proud! Hooah

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 27 at 2014 11:56 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 11:56:53 -0400

I'll give the unpopular real answer...
Combat vets do look at those who never deployed differently. And the more direct the combat role, the more they judge people for having not been there.
Most still view non-combat vets as a brother/sister, but yes, different.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Sep 28 at 2014 3:19 PM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Sun, 28 Sep 2014 15:19:28 -0400

What do you consider a "combat vet?"

Does it mean someone actually traded rounds with the enemy?

Does it mean that someone was shot at but due to circumstances could not return fire?

Does it mean that they sat in their CHU watching AFN and not caring because they were too deep into VBC for direct/indirect fire to be a real threat?

Does it mean they were planted in Kuwait and still got the right-side patch just for showing up?

Response by LTC Mark Gavula made Sep 28 at 2014 3:28 PM

LTC Mark Gavula — Sun, 28 Sep 2014 15:28:19 -0400

This becomes a very tricky task for HRC in the assignment process to TRADOC Schools. This will be a significant credibility assessment by combat seasoned Soldiers attending NCOES and OES schools. Soldiers look at the chest and right sleeve to see whether a Soldier was in combat.
I hope is that HRC assigns the best Soldiers to TRADOC schools. Let'e not forget there are sub standard performing Soldiers wearing combat patches and the combat badge instructing our future leaders.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Sep 29 at 2014 12:18 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 12:18:59 -0400

I felt quilty about people having to deploy while I served in danger spots like Oklahoma City and Des Moines, IA. I submitted a 4187 requesting to go but was told that I was going to stay where I was. It has always bothered me a little...makes me feel like should have done more.

Response by SFC Boots Attaway made Sep 29 at 2014 3:01 PM

SFC Boots Attaway — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 15:01:56 -0400

Even though I never deployed to the sandbox I would like to think that 2 tours on the DMZ in Korea in the 70s and 80s is close enough to combat. Combat patrols with live ammo, skirting live mine fields and UNDOCCUMENTED fire fights with PRK patrols.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2014 6:02 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 18:02:49 -0400

Generally speaking, I have a great deal of respect for anyone serving in uniform, whether or not they've deployed. The only time a combat patch makes a difference for me is when someone tries to tell me what it's like "over there". I have a difficult time keeping a straight face when someone who's never deployed tries to correct me (with two deployments) on conditions in the middle east.

Response by SSG John Erny made Sep 30 at 2014 11:08 AM

SSG John Erny — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 11:08:43 -0400

Do not sweat it Brother, Earning the right to wear our nations uniforms is honororable. Think of all of the troops you mentored and trained who did go, that is the way of things. Perhaps one day again the combat patches and awards will be rare. When I got in only senior NCO's and officers had them. They seemed different to me at the time, and it was well known that you did not ask them about it. Top was at hamburger hill, he was a fair leader but as hard as nails.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Sep 30 at 2014 3:46 PM

COL Jean (John) F. B. — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 15:46:24 -0400

First, thank you for your service. It was just as important and just as honorable as anybody who served in a combat zone. If you had been called/ordered to the combat zone, you would have gone.

All members of the military support the war effort; some directly and some indirectly.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2014 7:02 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 19:02:39 -0400

To me as long as they honorably served a veteran is a veteran. Can't always pick your duty stations or deployments. We have had this discussion many of time at my VFW post. You have to served on foreign soil or waters during a hostile period. And it can be heated at times. But just the same I have the same respect for a non combat veteran. Just with a Combat vet I can understand the hell and pain we mentally went through as well as the physical to certian degrees. Thank God I still have all my arms and legs. I'm fortunate!

Response by SGT(P) Jason D. Wendel made Oct 1 at 2014 1:45 AM

SGT(P) Jason D. Wendel — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 01:45:24 -0400

Nothing against soldiers who haven't ever deployed. Since I was a combat arms guy, 11 series.. we always deployed. However, Army-wide there are so many soldiers who never got the chance. I'm fairly certain most soldiers who join the service want to experience an overseas tour of duty at the very least. Individual Deployment experiences may vary... such a an infantry soldiers role versus that of someone who's occupational specialty does not allow them to engage in hostile combat operations. The key to this is each soldier has an importance within the framework of the system. We combat ground n' pound warfighter's could not achieve success without combat support units, engineers, sustainment brigades, air assets, the other service components, and the list goes on. All said and done, we all worked together to make it happen in garrison and overseas.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Oct 1 at 2014 8:03 AM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 08:03:05 -0400

MSgt Curtis Borders,

I have no issue with non-combat veterans. As many have related, service is service. You pulled on the "slot machine arm" the same way we did. There is no doubt about whether you would have deployed if added to a deployment roster.

That said, unfortunately, I encountered a number of Army Senior NCOs who did not deploy, chased assignments not to deploy, and were the kind of Soldiers who would do that. I evaluate everyone as an individual and respect your service.

Thank you for your service and dedication to our country,

SFC Joseph M. Finck USA (Ret)

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2014 10:44 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 10:44:47 -0400

In the Army, I have heard them called "slick sleeves". Though it really should not matter, it happens. Many times, the first thing someone looks at is the right shoulder to see if they have a combat affiliation patch.

Thinking back to the late 1980s and for the most part of the 1990s, very few Soldiers wore a "combat" patch. That is not to say they did not perform an integral role in defending our nation. I went to a WLC graduation about 7 years ago and 99% of those junior enlisted Soldiers had a patch. I went to one six months ago, and it was the opposite. So timing can be an factor.

In most cases today, not having a patch (in the Army Reserve) is due to MOS, unit of assignment ect. In my unit, I would go ballistic if I heard someone chastising someone just because they have not deployed.

The only real downside is on promotion boards. Given everything else is equal, the Soldier that deployed will stand a greater chance of being promoted.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Oct 1 at 2014 4:32 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 16:32:13 -0400

We're all brothers and sisters of the camo cloth regardless of how or where we served.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Oct 3 at 2014 2:39 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 02:39:13 -0400

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member I feel nothing but love, brother!

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Oct 3 at 2014 11:25 AM

LTC Hillary Luton — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 11:25:25 -0400

Simply serving one's country is honorable. Not everyone is given the opportunity to deploy, and that's ok. They still served. I have absolutely no ill feelings towards my brothers and sisters in uniform who have not deployed. They are still service members and they still served and I am still glad I had the opportunity to serve with them.

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2014 12:40 PM

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 12:40:01 -0400

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member, there is no such thing as veteran and non-combat veteran; there is veteran and combat veteran. Calling yourself a non-combat veteran may be true, but it implies that there is something "missing" from the time you served. I'm in the same boat as you...I'm proud of my brothers and sisters who are combat veterans, but the common denominator is that we are all veterans!

I asked a similar question several months back...the overwhelming consensus was that a veteran is a veteran. That being said, there are combat veterans, Iraq veterans, Afghanistan veterans, Vietnam veterans, etc...

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/should-veteran-status-be-reserved-for-those-who-have-deployed

Should veteran status be reserved for those who have deployed? | RallyPoint

This one has come up a lot in conversations with my peers and Soldiers: Should you be allowed to claim veterans status if you have never deployed? Personally, I'm an ROTC graduate who chose to go straight into the ARNG in 2011, knowing full well that my chances to deploy would be next to none with the changing op tempo. Realistically, had I been actively searching out a deployment the whole time, I still may not have gotten one. I'm sure there...

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Oct 3 at 2014 1:23 PM

CW5 Sam R. Baker — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 13:23:40 -0400

The team (DoD) should be for each other regardless of deployment or not. Having been on both sides of the coin with recently being on "REAR D" and then being first in "OEF and OIF", I feel I can speak with experience versus opinion. There are those in my career who shed disgust with those who have not served overseas in combat. I have witnessed it and while some do not deploy on their own account, most who didn't were not in the right place or time to serve OCONUS combat. Remember that things do not get forward without someone pushing from the rear. It takes the Air Force to STRAT and the NAVY to bring the heavy stuff that can't STRAT. Those of you who have posted saying you feel your service is not as valuable/honorable/recognizable as those of us who may have served 4 or more tours should reconsider. There are many examples one can turn to but while I hold no animosity toward those who have not been "UNFORTUNATE" to serve over there, those who "DO" discriminate and VFW talk about those who haven't really should be ashamed.

I have on more than one occasion had to throttle back the "right shoulder" folks from offending and misrepresenting themselves in public. There are active duty dodgers no doubt, but most folks don't get called up to go anymore and with contractors doing so much logistically and Class I now, the folks normally doing those duties aren't called into combat anymore. We cannot and should not look down on those who did not get the orders. Witnessing and seeing combat is not pleasurable and desirable for anyone I would think. If it is your desire to go to combat to serve up some justice, then rethink your motive for serving.

Veteran status is guaranteed to those who have served period!

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Oct 3 at 2014 1:38 PM

CW5 Sam R. Baker — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 13:38:39 -0400

I didn't get to attend any Salsa Dances at the USO or Kandahar boardwalk.....damn!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Inwsq94Zkuw

QUOTE from AR15.com
"No worries man. I appreciate the offer but really, I'm living better here than any of my previous tours. The only thing I need is a JDAM strike of common sense to hit this place. I'm just glad I get to fly out pretty much whenever I feel like it. If I was stuck here like some.....I'd lose my f----ing mind.

I guess what really bugs me is this is my first Divisional level experience. I've never been/worked out of a place like KAF. The stuff that goes on here was always the things that I saw on AFN that made us so angry. Like the Batman of Bagram, little news reports of hotdog eating contests, MPs walking around snatching people's CAC cards over PT belts, salsa night, etc. Just a different "war" than I'm used to I suppose. Haha, it makes me feel a little dirty inside..."

Salsa Kandahar Saterdays Boardwalk

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2014 2:48 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 14:48:12 -0400

I'm a 2 tour combat vet of Iraq, I deployed the first time in 2003 for OIF 1 and then 2011 for OND. I know a lot of non combat vets and I'm pretty good friends with them. Even the FNG's straight out of Basic training, are pretty good guys lol. The only animosity I have any non combat vets is if they try to BS lie about deploying to feel special and pay off that sacred brotherhood. Thankfully I haven't run into any of those guys yet. I'm glad that your CoC let you stay and take care of your wife while her health was bad, that is a good CoC in my opinion. I almost missed my last deployment because my wife had thyroid cancer, but I was allowed to go because she had it under control.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2014 6:47 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 18:47:35 -0400

You don't get to choose your war. I hold no animosity towards vets that never had the opportunity to go overseas and fight for their country. Now with that being said I do have dissension with those that have been in for 14 years and have miraculously never had the opportunity to deploy. Now Im not saying that it is not possible to have your career path take you in a different direction however for those that dodge deployments they need to get out.

http://rhinoden.rangerup.com/light-on-the-right-ditch-deployment-dodgers/

Light on the Right: Ditch Deployment Dodgers

The question, asked by a good friend of mine who happens to be a former Ranger NCO, was whispered to me inside a fast food restaurant just off post where we had stopped for lunch. I don’t think his tone could have been any more incredulous if he thought he had just seen Matt Best ride in on a purple unicorn while drinking a warm can of O’Doul’s and singing Michael Bisping’s praises.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2014 10:46 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 22:46:47 -0400

It is reassuring to hear all the support, brothers and sisters in arms! I was supposed to go to Iraq and was willing to. My health was an issue, however, as I had had melanoma and been a heat casualty 3 times. I also had at least 20 basal cell skin cancer lesions. As a result, the Army ended up considering me non-deployable. I am still a drilling Reservist and can do my jobs (EMT and LPN). I had a little bit of a problem for awhile feeling I was not "pitching in and doing my part". I also knew I was ready and able when the time came (or comes) to do what it takes. I am thankful the overwhelming feeling is a positive one for those like me. Obviously, I was not dodging being deployed (nor would I).

Response by CPO Jun Tucay made Oct 3 at 2014 11:01 PM

CPO Jun Tucay — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 23:01:54 -0400

Served in the USN (1971-1991) and retired as a Chief after 20 years of service. While serving, you go where you are ordered to go. So in my book, combat veterans and non-combat veterans are and should be on the same footing.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Oct 4 at 2014 5:38 AM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 05:38:30 -0400

I think the connection is being a veteran like your buds said and not combat vs non-combat. I believe that too.

Response by SSG Bill Seeser made Oct 4 at 2014 7:20 AM

SSG Bill Seeser — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 07:20:04 -0400

I was one of those that thought you had to be in combat or a chance of it . I finely pulled my head out of my butt . Started to realize that if not for those in the rear , I wouldnt have the things I needed to carry out our mission . Things like c- rations , ammo clothing and others

Response by SFC Luther East made Oct 4 at 2014 10:45 AM

SFC Luther East — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 10:45:43 -0400

Brother just serving honorably makes one a Brother and Sister in Arms. Never feel less than any other veteran. I am a Combat Veteran Having deployed to Desert Storm and OIF III and V with that in mind I can tell you that I hold no animosity to any of my Veteran friends that have not deployed. That being said, those that I have deployed with have a deeper connection with one another. How we interact is definitely defined by our deployments together.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Oct 4 at 2014 12:50 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 12:50:22 -0400

After rereading the question, any Veterinarian who is willing to go into combat to save animals should look down on another vet who does not have what it takes for the animals under their care?

I guess the cold medicine is starting to work?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 4 at 2014 4:00 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 16:00:55 -0400

depends on the reason. In your situation MSgt Borders- my hat is off to you, as you did the right thing! For the guys that don't deploy because they are skating out of everything just coasting by not trying and getting in trouble, Id say no respect for them. There is honor in serving your country even if its not down range!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 4 at 2014 7:26 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 19:26:09 -0400

Personally I don't differentiate between combat and non-combat vets, still my brothers and sisters in arms. No one should be looked down upon because they haven't deployed due to circumstances beyond their control.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 5 at 2014 11:24 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 05 Oct 2014 23:24:34 -0400

I recently got back last Nov. from a year long deployment in Africa (combat zone but no hostile fire while i was there) I volunteered for this deployment. I volunteered to give up 1 yr of my life away from my 3 young kids and wonderful wife. I have been in the Active Army National Guard for the last 15 years and in the Guard for 24 years total and while I was in recruiting (moving up in rank) I watched my whole state get deployed around me while I stayed back (some twice) Personally (now this was just for me) I felt like I needed to validate my career by making this sacrifice. Looking back on it, I have no regrets it was a great experience. With all that being said, I hold NOTHING against those that don't deploy unless they shammed out of going. I appreciate each and every one of my brothers and sisters in arms.

Response by SPC(P) Mark Jensen made Oct 6 at 2014 8:33 AM

SPC(P) Mark Jensen — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 08:33:23 -0400

First the bottom line you served your (our) country proud! I am a non-combat vet also, being in combat changes a person quite a bit. I should back up a little, I have spent more times in combat or war infected hot spots since my release. While I was active during my tenure I was ready to go, however was never sent.. I had those thoughts of being deployed while active duty, but then as I also said spending over a decade in war infected hot spots, wearing a different uniform but fighting for the same cause changes a person.. Sorry to hear about your wife and Happy to hear that your son is serving.. Be Proud, Be American!!

Response by SPC(P) Mark Jensen made Oct 6 at 2014 8:33 AM

SPC(P) Mark Jensen — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 08:33:39 -0400

Response by SGM Gregory Miller made Oct 6 at 2014 9:08 AM

SGM Gregory Miller — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 09:08:53 -0400

The military is a "team effort." Everyone has a role to play on that team and no one role is more important than another. There aren't any discriminators between brothers and sisters of our profession. As long as you honorably served nobody should ever look down on someone who wasn't deployed into a combat zone.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2014 9:45 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 09:45:03 -0400

I don't look down on those who didn't serve in in combat or even in a combat zone. While I was deployed to Iraq twice I wasn't technically in "combat". As long as you served honorably and that is all that matters.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2014 12:34 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 12:34:29 -0400

MSgt,

I can tell you that outside of a few instances I have not seen any animosity toward Soldiers/Sailors/Airmen/Marines that served a career and did not deploy. The instances that I did see were clearly within the control of the individual (and they generally made a conscious decision to hide in the institutional side of the house instead of taking their chances in the operational side). You served honorably for a career and then gave an offspring to do likewise. Take pride in that.

Response by SGT Tracey Wirth made Oct 7 at 2014 1:59 PM

SGT Tracey Wirth — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 13:59:52 -0400

I served 7 years in the Army, mostly during the Cold War, but also during Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Did not have the opportunity to deploy, but tried to volunteer to deploy and was told no. I have seen some combat vets who have belittled those of us who do not have the combat experience, although not many say this. I was even told once that I was not a "real vet." This guy was a total jerk so I dismissed his comment. Now my son serves as a Marine.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2014 3:56 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 15:56:45 -0400

I am a combat vet and still serving in the army today in a non combat MOS. When I look back at the time I had as a combat arms soldier I know the bonds that I grew with the soldiers that I was deployed with is much stronger than most of the friendships outside of that time. Even though I have many friends that are "non combat" vets I do not look at them any differently. Being in the military and serving your country weather during peace time mission or on a combat tour you are doing your part. I have the upmost respect for all Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines and that has nothing to do with their combat experience or lack their of. It takes many non combat soldiers to make a single combat Soldier effective.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2014 6:56 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Nov 2014 18:56:31 -0500

I don't have any animosity to anyone who didn't deploy. By and large, it is out of your own control if you get picked for a deployment or not. If it weren't for the folks who stay back home, we don't have the reach-back necessary to continue combat operations.

Response by GySgt Jack Ross made Nov 12 at 2014 11:27 PM

GySgt Jack Ross — Wed, 12 Nov 2014 23:27:27 -0500

MSgt (Verify To See), you need to be commended by those with the authority to do so. In my opinion, you are a real hero, one that needs to be recognized as one. Your wife has got to be feeling better just knowing that she is on your watch. By the way if there is one out there that can say it was you MSgt (Verify To See), that caused the bloodshed at any fire fight, for not being there, then we are in deep trouble. One man standing on an Island all by himself will see the Island deteriorate in a matter of a few months. Why? Because he alone cannot keep up with the work load. It takes every man in a unit or a Squad or a Team to see that the next man is taken care of. Oh yes, you were missed by your troops, the men that love you, trust you, believe in you, yes they missed you. However, those same men would have lost respect for you if you had left your wife in the care of a care-taker. Thank you my friend, I wish I could shake your hand, but I know your heart is listening to mine, and that is better than any hand shake. Thank you for showing this upcoming group of young men, what it means to be a Man, one that God has placed in charge of his family. Yes, thank you.

Response by PFC Alexander Coolidge made Nov 12 at 2014 11:43 PM

PFC Alexander Coolidge — Wed, 12 Nov 2014 23:43:27 -0500

I'm also a non deployed combat vet. I honestly think it sucks. But, no matter what, we are veterans, we signed the dotted line, showing that we were willing to fight and die for out country.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Nov 13 at 2014 12:56 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 00:56:06 -0500

I'm a non combat vet. Although I did deploy, I worked I level aircraft repair. We generally don't tear aircraft apart where they can be shot at.

Response by MSgt Lamont Goolsby made Nov 29 at 2014 4:13 PM

MSgt Lamont Goolsby — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 16:13:11 -0500

Brothers in Arms, and the term brothers goes for male and female. When we signed on the dotted line our fate was yet to be known. I have the utmost respect for anyone that served honorably...It is just hard to swallow "posers"

Response by SGT Kevin Smith made Nov 29 at 2014 4:29 PM

SGT Kevin Smith — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 16:29:11 -0500

I see what you mean. I never Deployed to a Combat zone. About the closest I got was Bosnia in 98-99 and Korea in 07-09. But when I made NCO, I had a Senior NCO ask how I made E-5 without a patch on my right sleeve. My response was that Uncle Sam knew where I was at all times. So I honestly believe that just because you don't go doesn't mean you are a worthless member of the Military. I am very proud of my service and would put my record up against anybody's

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2014 4:43 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 16:43:30 -0500

I generally don't give it much thought. However, I do often wonder when I meet a Soldier who has 10+ years of service, where they have been during the last decade. I know that timing has a lot to do with it, but I still wonder.

That being said, serving your country in the uniform of its military is serving just the same. Too few of us raise the right hand and say we will go. Thank you for your service MSgt Private RallyPoint Member

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2014 6:34 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 30 Nov 2014 06:34:58 -0500

MSgt Borders,

First off, very interesting topic. Thanks for bringing it up. That being said, I feel that a soldier is a soldier regardless of participation in combat operations or not. Each of us contributes to the mission in our own way and feel a sense of pride when that mission succeeds an an equal measure of failure when it doesn't. One does not have to "catch a bullet" to be considered a veteran. We've each given up a part of ourselves to something much larger than any of ius. The term veteran describes to me an individual that has answered his/her nations call to service and sacrificed their time, resrouces, and if neccesary his or her life in defense of the common good of our nation. You, MSgt, are a veteran.

Response by SSG Robert Clark made Nov 30 at 2014 6:46 AM

SSG Robert Clark — Sun, 30 Nov 2014 06:46:40 -0500

My father in law has asked me the same question. I do have a couple deployment under me but he dose not. To me a vet is a vet no matter where they went or didn't go. On the down fall I have heard and been around some people that think less of vets that don't have a combat patch. I told my father in law we are all brothers and not everyone is chosen to ride the ride but in the end we are all still family.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2014 7:00 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 30 Nov 2014 07:00:35 -0500

It really makes no difference to me as long as the non-combat vet doesn't say stupid crap like "when I react to contact I always...." If it is obvious they dodged deployment I will lose all respect for them. If they have done everything the nation asked of them and did it to the best of their ability, I have the utmost respect for ALL Service Members and Veterans.

Response by SGT Luke Huston made Dec 23 at 2014 7:42 AM

SGT Luke Huston — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 07:42:32 -0500

Going down range is what we do its what we love and any of us would have done that- but what you did took True courage brother. no hard feelings at all towards non combat vets, your still family

Response by SPC Nicholas Anderson made Dec 23 at 2014 1:51 PM

SPC Nicholas Anderson — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 13:51:25 -0500

Dude, yeah..no not at all, no animosity from honorable soldiers! You had someone very close to you go through some hellish shit on earth and she needed you; boom: bottom line man. Honorable decision on your part. It sucks you didn't get to share a deployment and that experience with your buddies but it happens, you had some real life challenges and faced em and I'm happy to hear your command was supportive!! If you got animosity from a service member, he or she can kiss your ass. =) Thank you for your years in service, my man!

Response by SP5 Joel O'Brien made Dec 23 at 2014 2:16 PM

SP5 Joel O'Brien — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 14:16:02 -0500

My dad was in the Army during WWII and never left the States. My mother and an aunt serves in the WAVES during WWII and also stayed stateside. I was in 73-76 and did not go to Vietnam. I didn't have to shoot at anybody and nobody shot at me. The closest family members that did see action was an uncle in WWI and my father-in-law in WWII. It's luck of the draw when you 'sign in' and nothing more.

Response by MSgt Dan Hurley made Dec 23 at 2014 3:42 PM

MSgt Dan Hurley — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 15:42:53 -0500

I think it takes everyone the ones that deploy and the ones that didn't their is no difference we all done our part.

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made Dec 23 at 2014 6:42 PM

1SG Cameron M. Wesson — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 18:42:54 -0500

No difference Brother!!! Not in my eyes!!!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2014 6:21 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Dec 2014 06:21:25 -0500

What constitutes a 'combat vet'? Someone who has closed with the enemy in direct action or just being in theater?

I agree with SSG P, B. I often wonder how a senior NCO/Officer has done 12+ years and has not deployed once. But I feel no animosity.

I have one tour as a scout (Desert Shield/Storm) and two deployments as a fobbit and I only wear my 3rd Armored Division patch (Desert Shield/Storm) on my right shoulder. And to be honest, yes I do hold that patch in higher regard than my others.

But in the big picture I'm here to lead and mentor Soldiers to take my place in a few years and accomplish the mission like SSG P stated.

Response by MSgt Rob Weston made Jan 2 at 2015 4:22 PM

MSgt Rob Weston — Fri, 02 Jan 2015 16:22:49 -0500

A Veteran is a Veteran regardless if they have been deployed to a combat zone or not... It is like a football team, not every player gets to be in the big game but they are still a team.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jan 2 at 2015 5:20 PM

SGM Erik Marquez — Fri, 02 Jan 2015 17:20:22 -0500

The only "feelings" I can attribute toward "NON COMBAT VETS" are the ones that literally hid out and worked at being non deployment ready.. or caused them self's to be placed in jobs one after the other that did not deploy... in more then 14 years of active combat... and loiter time on station typically 1/3 of that. These few I know of put significant effort into not deploying.

Im sure the over all numbers of those types are low... and for many MOS not even a valid gripe.... But I have had the displeasure of knowing several in my carrier field.. and that is the nicest thing I can say about my "feelings' toward those "non combat" vets. Every one that did this forced others to should an increased lever of stress, risk, hardship simply because the few were selfish, cowardice, or both.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Jan 2 at 2015 6:34 PM

SGT Frank Leonardo — Fri, 02 Jan 2015 18:34:20 -0500

Sometimes not everyone has to go down range to be considered a good troop in other people's eyes

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Jan 2 at 2015 7:34 PM

SGT Michael Glenn — Fri, 02 Jan 2015 19:34:35 -0500

I honestly dont think being combat or not should have ANY bearing on how we think of other soldiers. Many Combat vets did not see actual combat, such was the case with a few plane loads of pentagon officials who flew to the middle east at the onset of Desert Storm, sat on the tarmac for the allotted time and flew home sporting CIB's, I hope they have since changed the criteria for this badge.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2015 10:00 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 02 Jan 2015 22:00:53 -0500

I just chuckle when some dude who puts WAY too much emphasis on his combat experience (real or otherwise) tries to thumb his nose at me for not being a "real" veteran because I didn't deploy to the sandbox.

I was on Submarines and everywhere I may (or may not) have gone could have been a problem if the wrong people knew.

I have 2 NDSM's, 4 campaign medals, and 2 unit awards because I was never in any danger... I don't need their validation to know what I did was important.

Response by SPC Roy Baez-Gordils made Jan 2 at 2015 10:03 PM

SPC Roy Baez-Gordils — Fri, 02 Jan 2015 22:03:05 -0500

I would consider those who are non combat veterans as brother or s ister regardless if they deployed or not. We all served this nation with duty honor and courage . We all put in are fair share of blood and sweat to protect this great nation. I consider all service member of all branches brother and sister. I am also a non combat veteran.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Feb 1 at 2015 8:11 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Sun, 01 Feb 2015 20:11:31 -0500

I found it interesting as I scanned the accumulated comments posted in response to this discussion that there was something missing, two somethings actually.

I often found resentment, understandably so, among those slogging through the mud and jungles of Vietnam towards those who served in the rear with the gear. Sure, all understood that it was some sort of a magnificent lottery those dictated where each soldier ended up. Unlike previous wars, there were no true safe havens. Every basecamp perimeter was a front line and I believe that's even truer today as terrorists avoid front line forces whenever possible and strike anywhere at anytime. Still, there was a level of discomfort to be suffered patrolling the rice paddies and mountains that those in the rear never had the opportunity to enjoy.

More importantly (and this is the second something) every soldier who found him or herself among civilians during the time of the Vietnam War was subject to the same hatred and abuse regardless of their duty or rank or MOS. We were all "baby killers" in those days. Many would ditch their uniforms in airport bathrooms, but there were other telltale signs - their farmer's tans, their haircuts, their bearing - that gave them away and made them targets.

We were all brothers and sisters in those times. Interestingly, all who serve today enjoy a different sort of treatment, again dispensed by civilians without regard to rank, MOS, or whether or not they even deployed.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 12:02 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 00:02:12 -0500

I don't think so, a connection can come from a school, a deployment, a mission, or just being in the same unit together....no one is going to remember where and when the connection was made....so don't take it personal and drive on with the mission.

Response by PV2 Violet Case made Feb 2 at 2015 2:55 AM

PV2 Violet Case — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 02:55:39 -0500

I would like to say something here. I love and respect anyone who gave their life in one way or another for this country. I was the first groups of women trained for combat. to fight with m16, m60, the law the grenades and all. I wanted to be a lifer and retire proudly like my uncles did. But it was not my fault that they did not keep the toxins at Ft. McClellan in their containers and I have been sick and having surgery after surgery and some days the pain is so bad I want to die. My rashes, bleeding, stomach problems and stuff all began in basic training and I pushed on as long as I could and all their lieing to me it is still horrible. I have had to be taken to emergency 7 times in two months not to count follow up appointments. And to hear that someone can say how do combats vets feel toward non-combat vets really hits deep in my guts. I have so many poisons and toxins in me that it was like I was in many wars for those. I am crying now to read some of the things here and it makes me want to leave this site. I wish I would have been at war and been shot down dead rather then to live what I have . I at one time thought I found a place where I was reconnecting and feeling like it was not my fault and it is not my fault. rashes and insides feeling like bugs eating me alive or like acid poured on my skin ,I bleed and sometimes can't eat solid food, headaches always can't have a normal life or relationship. Please read up on why some people didnt go all the way to combat but yet we are dying. The pain oh my dearest God knows it all. There are a lot more articles then these. wow. So I do respect those who went and really put their all in it on the lines, I was so proud to serve my country that I would have gone and done it to just showing the government with our first group of women trained should say I was passed and was ready to go to war if called. And I would have too. Im no many brought back memories they will never forget but I live with memories I will not forget either and three months ago the VA told me they couldnt believe I am still alive today. I'm only in mid 50's body of 80-90 yr old most days. Can't travel without someone attending me. No one should look down on any who were in the back without knowing the full story of the situation at hand.
Actually read up on it
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVCcvV_yAVo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d44IhjWRexU
http://www.chicagonow.com/uncommon-sense/2013/08/toxic-vets-ft-mcclellan-08072013/
http://www.veteranstoday.com/2010/07/06/heads-up-for-those-who-served-at-fort-mcclellan/

Fort McClellan Chemical Exposure

Fort McClellan Veterans were exposed to toxic chemicals from 1935-1999. HR 2052 the Fort McClellan Health Registry Act currently sitting in congress when pas...

Response by SPC Lukas Jones made Feb 2 at 2015 3:29 AM

SPC Lukas Jones — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 03:29:10 -0500

I greatly feel for the struggles you and your wife have gone through and I hope her health is good. I am in a similar boat having not been selected for deployment, my 1st unit went to mob one month after my transfer went through and I entered rear det to that unit. Now I'm in a brigade that is on the rapid response list, but since my MOS hs been pulled, I will unlikely deploy with them. The Great Green...Army decided not to deploy me, and I feel bad going to Vet organizations or the VA as a non-combat service member. When people come up to me and thank me, I reply kindly that I appreciate their support and to not forget those who have served and are now out of the military, but I feel like I am walking in the shadow of their accomplishments and try to tread lightly.

Response by MAJ Ron Peery made Feb 2 at 2015 6:16 AM

MAJ Ron Peery — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 06:16:35 -0500

Pity. I know that there are many, particularly in the National Guard and Reserves, who actively tried to avoid service in theater. But for the most part, I feel pity for the warriors who sought a deployment , but could not get one because someone in the chain of command thought they were more valuable in a support role stateside. It took me five years to get a deployment, and it was worth waiting for.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2015 9:17 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Feb 2015 21:17:08 -0500

Personally, I have not a single ill thought on those that haven't had the opportunity to deploy. My deployment happened simply because I transferred to a unit 6 months prior to the unit shipping out. Luck of the draw, you might say. Everyone has to serve a role somewhere. As long as people have that thought process, then there shouldn't be issues in between those that have and haven't deployed.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2015 9:23 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Feb 2015 21:23:38 -0500

We are all brothers and sisters no matter what the deployment time or not. Some people just don have the duty location/MOS or just get to units after a deployment. its all good.

Response by CPT Marla Azinger made Feb 6 at 2015 12:38 PM

CPT Marla Azinger — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 12:38:09 -0500

Thank you for this post. I struggle still at times with what other Veterans think of non Deployed Veterans. I wanted to Deploy and do what I was trained for, but never got to Deploy. I took a plane ride to a staging site but we got called back. I struggle with the term Combat Veteran because I was the recipient of Heavy Artillery Fire in a Joint Task Force Live Fire gone bad. It happened state side, so I'm not a Combat Veteran, yet I paid the price then and still am, from being close to impact and in their blast waves. So I struggle with this because I experienced a real scenario of Combat but it was on home ground. So in a twisted way I feel like it didn't count as combat...because it wasn't...but it was for me. And up until now I've not publicly spoken about it. I guess the comments I've found on RP give me a little hope that I might find my way out of my confused feelings over this and my concerns of not being a Combat Veteran.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2015 3:21 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 15:21:06 -0400

Msgt

A vet is a vet as many have said, so I won't talk about that. There is animosity towards non-combat vets but I think that's more in the actual force rather than when your out and about shooting the stuff with your friends. Case in point (for anyone that worked in the 'gon). At a point, people were being scrutinized in the Pentagon for not having a combat patch, people were hiding out there....this is completely different from your situation, so don't think I'm comparing them. Also, for promotions, deployment helps and I think anyone who denies that is kidding themselves.

In your current world, there shouldn't be any animosity, you choose to serve, not where and when you served. Got it, there's a connection you don't share with them, don't let it bother you. Look at your other friends, there will be connections that they or you share that other's won't, doesn't mean there is animosity. Unless you all lived in the same town, went to the same school and then college, dated the same women, went to the same places on vacation, there are going to be things that you missed out on. I missed outings/b-days/weddings when I was overseas that my other friends got to share with one another....I can't connect with them on those little things, doesn't mean there is animosity....get what I'm saying?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2015 3:21 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 15:21:24 -0400

My dad did 20 years in the Navy and never saw combat. I did 7 in the Army and saw 2 deployments is he any less of a vet than I am no because in the end we both scarified. In my opinion I believe that he sacrificed more than I did.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2015 3:23 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 15:23:31 -0400

I'm not a combat vet 1980 81 82 I was well trained and ready to go all I needed was orders

Response by CH (1LT) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2015 11:52 AM

CH (1LT) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 11:52:51 -0400

We go where they send us, and if they choose to send us somewhere that's not as dangerous its not our choice.

As a combat vet I feel like I am not a "real" combat vet because my service in hindsight was generally "easy". I have been shot at and I have returned fire, but my unit had no serious casualties during deployment, so its easy to feel lesser than the soldier who has been in tougher situations.

I've never looked down on any vet because they where not in combat.

Response by SSG Thomas Brousseau made Jun 11 at 2015 11:53 AM

SSG Thomas Brousseau — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 11:53:25 -0400

A Veteran is a Veteran. To be honest my service in Korea in the 1/506 Infantry was much more Physically challenging than it was to be a PSYOP Team Chief in Baghdad. All unselfish service for this great nation of ours is noble service.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Jun 11 at 2015 11:54 AM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 11:54:59 -0400

I say
"Thanks for all the Beans, Bullets and Band-aids. Could not have been done with out them. Here .. have a beer"

Response by SFC Henry Bartosik made Jun 11 at 2015 12:56 PM

SFC Henry Bartosik — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 12:56:00 -0400

Whether you served honorably and performed your duties to the best of your ablility is what counts. Yes I have deployed several times and on some trips not designated deployments. Be glad you didn't see combat. you didn't miss out on anything. be glad you served. I wont even tell my nephews to join the military now a days.
standards have dropped and there is no support for the common soldier with the politicians in charge.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jun 11 at 2015 9:32 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 21:32:35 -0400

What is a combat vet? Is a combat vet when they went "bang" one time from their vehicle mounted .50 cal and then it jammed? Is a combat vet when artillery operators shot their cannons? Is a combat vet someone who qualifies for the CAB? I have seen CoC trying to narrowly qualify Soldiers for a CAB and its disgusting. You either left your family to deploy or you stayed behind in the US doing what ever. I left the safety of my FOB 3 or 4 times a week in AFG to conduct mostly training local police and KLEs. Other than that, I also participated in QRF missions. I drove all over Iraq acquiring supplies. Not one single time was I shot at but does that matter? Should I gauge myself in comparison to someone's war stories? I guess there's some club out there that is unspoken of for "combat vets". Jennifer Lynch is a combat vet only because of incompetence of her unit. If they had their shit together and conducted themselves as Soldiers, maybe we wouldn't know her name. Lastly, I have more respect for combat vets who did a little more than go bang one time or were merely mortared on from several hundred feet from the sight of impact and stayed in their hard sites.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 12 at 2015 12:35 AM

PO1 John Miller — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 00:35:45 -0400

You served honorably and that's good enough! I am proud to call you a brother in arms!

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2015 7:52 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 19:52:25 -0400

I feel like you are a super lucky guy and thank you for your service, I don't that make you less deserving of the title, you're a veteran no matter what

Response by MSgt Mike Brown; MBTI-CP; MA, Ph.D. made Jun 12 at 2015 8:12 PM

MSgt Mike Brown; MBTI-CP; MA, Ph.D. — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 20:12:03 -0400

I believe you were given sage advice! How could you cast-aside your beloved wife, who endured so-many medical tragedies, and then function in a combat environment. No Sir, you are one of us, and there is no shame, or phenomenon of "less than."

Response by SGT Edward Perez made Jun 12 at 2015 9:17 PM

SGT Edward Perez — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 21:17:41 -0400

I feel if your not a combat vet. Well hells bells. At least you did sonething for your Colors, (Country). Thank you for your service.

Response by PO3 James Dennis made Jun 12 at 2015 9:45 PM

PO3 James Dennis — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 21:45:08 -0400

I was in the first Gulf War and your service is no more or less valuable than mine. You filled a need within the military that someone had to fill. I find it commendable that you gave up the need to be with your comrades overseas to stay with your ailing wife. Giving to your country can be done in many ways. You put family first, and that's the way it should be. We never go to fight what is ahead of us, we fight for what we left behind. I hope these words will have meaning to you and thanks for your service.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2015 11:47 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 23:47:49 -0400

I was in for 25 years before I became a "combat vet". I feel that the military sends you where they need you. If a SM has not dodged deployments to me they are just as much a vet as those of us that happened to get orders to a combat zone.

Response by MSgt Michael Lane made Jun 15 at 2015 10:34 AM

MSgt Michael Lane — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 10:34:57 -0400

I’m retired now and work for the Army now, and I feel that no one cares if you went or not. It’s not a subject that comes up often, don't get me wrong I know the guys that I work with who is a combat vet and who is not just from stories we tell each other but not an everyday topic. As far as active duty people I did not see any animosity toward those that went and did not. But that may be different by unit.

Response by CAPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2015 2:34 PM

CAPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Jul 2015 14:34:04 -0400

We use the whole spear, not just the pointy end. You were part of the spear.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Aug 20 at 2015 8:47 AM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 08:47:25 -0400

"Ernst’s war record was first called into question in a Huffington Post article published last Friday that quoted a Vietnam veteran calling Ernst a “fraud” for referring to herself as a combat veteran despite only commanding a transportation company that never came under enemy fire.

Read more: http://www.politico.com/story/2015/02/joni-ernst-combat-veteran-115080.html#ixzz3jMIfMs6Q

Ernst: Yes, I am a 'combat veteran'

“Just because I’m not an infantryman and I wasn’t kicking in doors, I don’t believe I’m less of a player.”

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 9:07 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 09:07:14 -0400

No need to add to the remarkably well stated comments herein...They call it an "Honorable" Discharge because that's exactly what it is.

Are there well-intentioned persons who take it a little too personally when someone aggrandizes their exploits a bit? The people I know who were in the "thick" of things don't talk much to begin with...Unless someone with "questionable" credentials starts questioning the decisions and sacrifices of those who directly involved, I don't think there's much animosity at all.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 20 at 2015 9:12 AM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 09:12:10 -0400

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member you are no less a veteran. What about those who never served in wartime?

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 12:30 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 12:30:46 -0400

A veteran is a veteran regardless. You served both your country and your family honorably.

Anyone who tries to take away your pride in your service isn't worth talking to.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 7:02 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 19:02:59 -0400

As I have said in other posts, I served 28 years mostly non-combat--never deployed, I am proud of my service. You made MSgt-not easy in the Air Force to get there. You obviously were very successful. You contributed to the USAF Mission throughout your career, and did it very well or you wouldn't be MSgt.. You also are a devoted husband and family man who also inspired his son to serve. You have every reason to be proud! Thanks for your service!

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 8:12 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 20:12:12 -0400

I was on active duty with the Air Force from 1960 to 1975. I was stationed at 8 different places including 2 years in Japan. I went everywhere I was assigned and did every duty I was assigned to. Those did not include Vietnam. Had I volunteered I would have had to wait 5 years to go.

So, I was not there. But, I am a vet.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 8:37 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 20:37:11 -0400

Interesting question and to an extent... There is a difference. Not from a personal standpoint but a legal one. Many civil service agencies... Police, Fire, Corrections, etc... Will allow members of service with combat military time purchase their military time towards pension requirements. i.e. Lets use the example of a 20 year pensioner. That veteran would buy back their time... Say 3 years.... And only have to work 17 years in that agency to meet the 20 year requirement to retire. Adversely, a Veteran without combat credit can not purchase the time back. Even though that member has no say in deployment status.... So while we as Vets don't see a difference... The law does.... And this is just one example of differences in laws concerning Vets... Just food for thought...

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Aug 20 at 2015 8:39 PM

LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 20:39:27 -0400

I deployed on six ships in my career, but never saw combat. Just luck of the draw. I was in during the Cold War, Gulf War, Drug War, etc. I retired shortly before 9/11...

Response by SGT David T. made Aug 31 at 2015 1:44 PM

SGT David T. — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 13:44:38 -0400

Service is service and comes in all shapes and sizes. There is something amazing about serving one's nations regardless of how that service is carried out. I personally do not have any animosity towards non-combat veterans and I usually tell them to count themselves as fortunate that they did not have to deal with a lot of the bad things that combat vets deal with. The only time I get indignant is when someone tries to misrepresent their service, other than that the normal words I use to describe non-combat vets are brother and sister same as the combat vets I know. You raised your hand, and they didn't call you, but at least you raised your hand.

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Sep 29 at 2015 1:07 PM

MSgt Michael Smith — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 13:07:22 -0400

There should not be stupid distinctions like combat and non-combat when you are talking about veterans. These separators serve no purpose except to put one group above another group. We are all veterans, period.

Response by MSG Michael Murphy made Oct 14 at 2015 4:21 PM

MSG Michael Murphy — Wed, 14 Oct 2015 16:21:53 -0400

A Vet is a Vet. Any Soldier, Sailor or Airman that served our Country, regardless of their assignment, took the oath to Defend against Enemy's both foreign and domestic, and to obey the President and any Officers appointed over them. I believe that equates to their willingness to lay their Life on the line if the need arises. Ret MSG Michael J. Murphy

Response by Sgt John Hearn made Apr 4 at 2016 9:24 AM

Sgt John Hearn — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 09:24:07 -0400

I always have felt second class compared to my brothers that were in combat. I served from 61 to 68 but never was deployed to Nam.

Response by SSG Courtney Ellis made Nov 10 at 2016 1:52 PM

SSG Courtney Ellis — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 13:52:17 -0500

MSgt Curtis Borders you are still my brother regardless, you still wrote the same blank check I wrote to ‘The United States of America’ for an amount of ‘up to and including their life.’ Just because your country didn't cash the check, it doesn't mean that you didn't write it. You are and always will be one of us brother!!

Response by LCpl Randy Griffith made Sep 17 at 2017 6:33 PM

LCpl Randy Griffith — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 18:33:09 -0400

I was a U.S. Marine 1980 to 84 fairly peaceful time. My son just started his fourth tour as an Army paratrooper and i ask myself that question a lot. Wonder a lot if i could have cut it and hope i could have. Still very proud to have served.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2017 6:47 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 18:47:05 -0400

All have a purpose deployed or not, all are Veterans

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Sep 17 at 2017 7:41 PM

SPC Donn Sinclair — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 19:41:37 -0400

Vietnam, '69-'70. No sweat, you didn't miss a thing.

Response by PO3 David Davis made Sep 17 at 2017 7:50 PM

PO3 David Davis — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 19:50:20 -0400

I my opinion it should not matter, if your not in combat .you are supporting it no matter what. You personally are part of the unit. We have all sacrificed some of our life. You are fortunate to have friends like that. And to have understanding CO. That is great. You gave 20 years, be confident in your service and sacrifices.

Response by SSG Steven Mangus made Sep 17 at 2017 8:07 PM

SSG Steven Mangus — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 20:07:04 -0400

Brother you did what needed to be done, regardless of the stress placed on you. Service to the nation is merely a chapter in the book of life, whereas family is the majority of the entire story. You did the right thing..Brothers in arms..

Response by TSgt George Rodriguez made Sep 17 at 2017 8:48 PM

TSgt George Rodriguez — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 20:48:07 -0400

I spent 2-1/2 years in Germany from 1964 to 1967 during the cold war. I spent 1 year in Thailand as a medic, during that tour, Cambodia and Vietnam fell. We took in and set up a tent city on the beach at UTapao for the refugees from Viet-Nam. We medically cleared them before they were allowed to enter the US. The ship Mayaguez fell into communist hands. We took care of the injured Marines from that conflict. We sent mercy missions to both Cambodia and Viet-Nam to pick up and transferred Half caste Asian/American children to prevent them from being murdered by the North Vietnamese. As I wasn't chosen for those flights, we did send a number of our staff to attend the children. In my 20 years I was never sent in harms way. As a medic my job was to maintain the medical stability of the personnel on the base. Stateside also included the families of both active duty personnel but also the retiree population. Do I consider myself a vet? HELL YES.

Response by SSG Jim Foreman made Sep 17 at 2017 8:48 PM

SSG Jim Foreman — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 20:48:17 -0400

MSgt,
You've done more that the majority of Americans. I'm sure taking care of your wife has been extremely stressful. You did exactly what a good spouse should do. Hopefully your wife is doing better. Hold your head high MSgt as an old combat vet I hold nothing but respect towards you.

Response by MSG Mel Trout made Sep 17 at 2017 8:56 PM

MSG Mel Trout — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 20:56:45 -0400

I salute you for this post, MSG. I have many of the same feelings. When I joined the National Guard in 1972 you know the names and attitude that went with that. First meeting were full of SM at the end of their 6 year enlistment. In those days a person had to chase rank. Lots of Korean War Vets filling Senior NCO slots. Switched to Reserve and was in several units. Never disrespected by a combat vet, but just active duty vets that I outranked and they felt they had more time on KP than I had in the Army. I didn't become a Vet until 1992 at the end of Desert Storm. Mobilized for a task force to receive, repair, and re-issue returning equipment at Ft McCoy, WI. Still hard to tell people I'm retired Army. My Reserve was nothing like the new Reserve. Prayers for your wife and family. Hope things are good.

Response by SGT Adam Winebarger made Sep 18 at 2017 1:11 AM

SGT Adam Winebarger — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 01:11:24 -0400

I deployed with a guy who, at 33 days in country, faked a knee injury in order to get sent home. Since he had been over longer than 30 days, he got to wear his deployment patch, and he would talk down to any slick sleeve he could find. He was a PV2 (had gotten an article 15 prior to deployment) and went as far as to tell a specialist without a deployment patch that his deployment patch meant he had seniority over that E4. Suffice it to say the acting 1SG on rear-D tore that kid a new asshole that day. Before we were even back from Afghanistan, this kid had gotten a DUI and had been kicked out, and I'd be willing to bet he went home and now talks to anyone who will listen (and several who won't) about the fact that he's a 'combat veteran' and he sacrificed so much for 'the very freedoms you enjoy', etc.
Now if that guy is somehow 'more of a veteran' than the person who made the original post here, the guy who stayed back to take care of his wife who had MS, and then cancer, then I'll eat my shoe. At the end of the day, it's the man (or woman) that makes the patch, not the other way around.

Response by Capt Bob Soldner made Sep 18 at 2017 9:24 AM

Capt Bob Soldner — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 09:24:20 -0400

There was a job to be done and you did it You have a right to be proud!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2017 10:01 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 10:01:25 -0400

I served from 1992-2003 when I RCPd. The last unit I was in deployed to Iraq less than a year after I left, thanks to FB I still in touch with my friends that I served with, but I find it hard to talk to them as I feel guilty for not going with them.

Response by SSG Ray Murphy made Sep 18 at 2017 12:14 PM

SSG Ray Murphy — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 12:14:52 -0400

I love all these politically correct answers being given. Yes, there is animosity from combat vets to non-combats vets, even if people won't say it in a public forum, or out loud while they are still in. Can't pretend it doesn't exist because it hurts your feelings.

Now, with that said, why does it exist? Mostly, I believe because there is always a handful of service members who did everything within their power to get out of deploying, and that small group tainted everyone in it, regardless of why they as individuals didn't deploy. Sad, but true.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2017 12:19 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 12:19:08 -0400

With 24 years active service, I was able to see combat and peacetime service. WHY would any "combat" veteran look askance at a non-combat veteran? I can see no good reason, as EVERYONE of us had a job to do in KEEPING the peace or in SECURING the peace.

Response by SGT Jim Tough made Sep 18 at 2017 12:25 PM

SGT Jim Tough — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 12:25:24 -0400

I am not a combat vet. My unit wasnt chosen to go in Just Cause because our COHORT was only at Ord a MONTH before Just Cause kicked off. Spent DS/DS in the Sinai. Volunteered for the 4th aviation brigade when they were heading to Somalia. Was denied as important personnel to my Infantry unit as a Brad driver. Dont even know if the unit went to Somalia. Bosnia Kosovo missions happened while I was on recruiting duty. Went through SFAS and didnt make it. Had a career ending heart attack in 02 just prior to deploying to Kuwaut to start prepping for OIF 1. Am not happy I didn't get to go while my brothers did. It is What It is and I deal with it. I am proud of my service. I am proud of my brothers. I was as prepared as could be to go over and do what I had to. What I have a hard time dealing with is my body betraying me. Bright spot I guess is it betraying me before bullets IEDS and and all the rest of the shit hit the fan.

Response by SGT Roger Bilderback made Sep 18 at 2017 12:35 PM

SGT Roger Bilderback — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 12:35:12 -0400

I am a non combat vet did 6 years with as an Infantryman I hope like hell no one holds that against me

Response by SP6 Jim Martin made Sep 18 at 2017 1:12 PM

SP6 Jim Martin — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 13:12:02 -0400

Vietnam Soldier with an RA prefix here. Animosity never, ballbusting-forever. Calling you a REMF is reserved as a family thing. NOBODY else is allowed.

Response by SP5 James Pospisil made Sep 18 at 2017 1:58 PM

SP5 James Pospisil — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 13:58:20 -0400

No problem here . They say " a chain is as strong as its weakest link" Some of us did our time in theatre and some stayed in the rear and took care of the homeland. That chain remained intact and still stands taught with no weak link. Be it in the theatre or at home our BAND of BROTHERS WILL REMAIN EVER STRONG. HOOAH

Response by Cpl Aaron Boyd made Sep 18 at 2017 4:28 PM

Cpl Aaron Boyd — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 16:28:25 -0400

I see no difference service is service. We all followed the orders we were given.

Response by SFC Shane Funkhouser made Sep 18 at 2017 4:38 PM

SFC Shane Funkhouser — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 16:38:48 -0400

It happens but I think the majority of us don't care. Especially if it was for reasons beyond your control. Now the guys that actively dodged a deployment those guys won't catch a break if found out.

Response by SPC Guy Schlachter made Sep 18 at 2017 4:54 PM

SPC Guy Schlachter — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 16:54:46 -0400

It depends. If you're a senior enlisted, flag or general officer, and in combat arms, you have no excuse if you were in from '01-present, but '03-'12 especially.

Response by SGM Joel Cook made Sep 18 at 2017 5:05 PM

SGM Joel Cook — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 17:05:56 -0400

Animosity is a word that never comes into play just because you didn't deploy. As others have stated the Dodgers that work overtime dreaming up excuses not to deploy to a combat zone will probably get disrespected and some animosities, I think we all know a few of those. Legitimate life threatening disorders is a whole other story. I took emergency leave out of Korea when my wife got cancer so I know the stressors of that situation. You did mention a sense of close contact with others that have seen the elephant or have a combat patch or five. You might get a wink and or a nod from a guy who has one or more as they know you really don't know what it's like until you have been there. God forbid lost someone in their unit to enemy fire or worse yet a close friend or associate. 13 memorials and funerals while on A&R leave were life altering events. Every one hurts!

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Sep 18 at 2017 5:31 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 17:31:35 -0400

I think anyone who as served in any military service for any length of time will realize that you are sent to the areas where your skills are most needed. I myself deployed twice in support of the 1st and 2nd Gulf Wars but as a Nurse (LPN) I spent my first tour at Walter Reed in Washington DC and my second working in an Army Hosp in Germany. This BS also came up when I attended the Sergeant Majors Academy in 2006, some postulating that if you didn't deploy to a zone of combat you shouldn't be allowed to attend the Academy. The cadre called us all together and put that theory to rest real fast!

Response by PFC Donald De Paola made Sep 18 at 2017 5:55 PM

PFC Donald De Paola — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 17:55:10 -0400

I served with the 101st Abn. Div., 501st Sig. Corp. from 1961-'63. We were the designated First Ready Strike Force at that time, the proverbial tip of the spear. In 1962, we were sent to the University of Mississippi (Ole’ Miss) during the campus race riots when James Meredith, the first black man on that southern campus entered the University.(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ole_Miss_riot_of_1962) Within weeks of returning from that domestic deployment, we were ordered to prepare for an airborne invasion of Cuba and bivouacked for almost a week under the wings of our C-130’s, ready to make our combat jumps. But as history tells us, that conflict was remediated by our Commander-In-Chief, John F. Kennedy. He made the Russian Prime Minister, Nikita Khrushchev, stand down during the historic Cuban Missile Crisis.(http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/cuban-missile-crisis)
From my perspective, I followed my orders during a pivotal time in our nation’s history.
Because I was not deployed to Cuba, or anywhere else, does not change the fact that I was trained and ready to serve in that role also.
My Division, the 101st. Airborne Screaming Eagles, was subsequently sent to Viet Nam and served proudly after my separation in ’63. Perhaps God smiled on me so it wasn't necessary for me to be there.
I’m proud of my service and whatever I was able to contribute during my time in the service but make no mistake; I personally hold all combat veterans that served combat tours overseas in the highest regard for what they actually did contribute during their deployments. Many of them sacrifices their lives and limbs in combat. Many of are still fighting those battles even though they are home because of PTSB and TBI or other physical injuries from their deployments.
To this day, I'm still involved in veteran groups that deal with PTSD and TBI and veteran suicides. (Project 22 -Medicinal Missions - medicinalmissions.com/project-22) Only combat veterans can tell you how they feel about non-combat veterans but I can tell you this. I hold all combat veterans in the highest regards and have the highest respect for them but I am also proud of my own military service whether or not it was under combat conditions or whatever anybody else thinks about it!

I served with the 101st reintegrate. Div., 501st Sig. Corp. from 1961-'63. We were the designated First Ready Strike Force at that time, the proverbial tip of the spear. In 1962, we were sent to the University of Mississippi (Ole’ Miss) during the campus race riots when James Meredith, the first black man on that southern campus entered the University(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ole_Miss_riot_of_1962) Within weeks of returning from that domestic deployment, we were ordered to prepare for an airborne invasion of Cuba and bivouacked for almost a week under the wings of our C-130’s, ready to make our combat jumps. But as history tells us, that conflict was remediated by our Commander-In-Chief, John F. Kennedy. He made the Russian Prime Minister, Nikita Khrushchev, stand down during the historic Cuban Missile Crisis.(http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/cuban-missile-crisis)
From my perspective, I followed my orders during a pivotal time in our nation’s history.
Because I was not deployed to Cuba, or anywhere else overseas, does not change the fact that I was trained and ready to serve in that role also.
My Division, the 101st. Airborne Screaming Eagles, was subsequently sent to Viet Nam and served proudly after my separation in ’63. Perhaps God smiled on me so it wasn't necessary for me to be there.
I’m proud of my service and whatever I was able to contribute during my time in the service but make no mistake; I personally hold all combat veterans that served combat tours overseas in the highest regard for what they actually did contribute during their deployments. Many of them sacrifices their lives and limbs in combat. Many of are still fighting those battles even though they are home because of PTSB and TBI or other physical injuries from their deployments. Many of them are suicidal and cannot re-intergrate back into a civilian society because of their combat experiences
To this day, I'm still involved in veteran groups that deal with PTSD and TBI and veteran suicides. (Project 22 -Medicinal Missions - medicinalmissions.com/project-22) Only combat veterans can tell you how they feel about non-combat veterans but I can tell you this. I hold all combat veterans in the highest regards and have the highest respect for them but I am also proud of my own military service whether or not it was under combat conditions and regardless of whatever anybody else thinks about it!

Ole Miss riot of 1962) - Wikipedia

Response by PFC Donald De Paola made Sep 18 at 2017 6:26 PM

PFC Donald De Paola — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 18:26:44 -0400

I served with the 101st. Abn. Div., 501st Sig. Corp. from 1961-'63. We were the designated First Ready Strike Force at that time, the proverbial tip of the spear. In 1962, we were sent to the University of Mississippi (Ole’ Miss) during the campus race riots when James Meredith, the first black man on that southern campus entered the University.(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ole_Miss_riot_of_1962) Within weeks of returning from that domestic deployment, we had orders to prepare for an airborne invasion of Cuba and bivouacked for almost a week under the wings of our C-130’s, ready to make our combat jumps. But as history tells us, that conflict was remediated by our Commander-In-Chief, John F. Kennedy. He made the Russian Prime Minister, Nikita Khrushchev, stand down during the historic Cuban Missile Crisis.(http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/cuban-missile-crisis)
From my perspective, I followed my orders during a pivotal time in our nation’s history.
Because I was not deployed to Cuba, or anywhere else overseas, does not change the fact that I was trained and ready to serve in that role also.
My Division, the 101st. Airborne Screaming Eagles, was subsequently sent to Viet Nam and served proudly after my separation in ’63. Perhaps God smiled on me so it wasn't necessary for me to be there.
I’m proud of my service and whatever I was able to contribute during my time in the service but make no mistake; I personally hold all combat veterans that served combat tours overseas in the highest regard for what they actually did contribute during their deployments. Many of them sacrifices their lives and limbs in combat. Many of are still fighting those battles even though they are home because of PTSB and TBI or other physical injuries from their deployments. Many of them are suicidal and cannot successfully re-integrate back into a civilian society because of their combat experiences.
To this day, I'm still involved in veteran groups that deal with PTSD and TBI and veteran suicides. (Project 22 -Medicinal Missions - medicinalmissions.com/project-22) Only combat veterans can tell you how they feel about non-combat veterans but I can tell you this. I hold all combat veterans in the highest regards and have the highest respect for them but I am also proud of my own military service whether or not it was under combat conditions or whatever anybody else thinks about it!

Ole Miss riot of 1962) - Wikipedia

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Sep 18 at 2017 6:59 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 18:59:36 -0400

You served, you did your job...as did we all who served, nuff said..

Response by CW3 Clayton C. made Sep 18 at 2017 9:50 PM

CW3 Clayton C. — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 21:50:03 -0400

No animosity whatsoever. Thank you for your service, MSgt.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2017 10:34 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 22:34:16 -0400

Let me ask this question. I spent 12 years in the National Gaurd how do you guys feel about Gaurd and reserve guys. I was in from 1986-1998

Response by SSG James Behnke made Sep 19 at 2017 4:39 AM

SSG James Behnke — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 04:39:41 -0400

The fact that you even asked this question speaks to your character. The ones that try to get out of deployments do not give a second thought to how they are viewed by their fellow brothers and sisters in arms.

You have nothing to be ashamed of, and I definitely do not look down on you.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 19 at 2017 5:03 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 05:03:30 -0400

I'm no combat vet, but I still wait for my opportunity to go to the sandbox and do what I've been training for, be it giving everyone the ability to get on Facebook or Skype their loved ones, or augmenting a rifle squad on a patrol. Six years in so far and my only "deployments" have been exercises. It's easy to question one's own sense of purpose if you're doing everything you're supposed to and don't deploy while we're still fighting overseas, but I still press on.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 19 at 2017 8:48 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 08:48:17 -0400

When you retired 13 years ago the war on terror was essentially just beginning. At that time vast majority of the military had not yet been downrange. However I have a little animosity toward people who are in now and have been since 2001 but have managed to avoid deploying. If you're not called then fine but after 16 years of war if you are grateful for the life the military has given you think you owe them a deployment when there are people who have been 6-7 times not by choice.

Response by CMSgt Elbert Eloriaga made Sep 19 at 2017 9:56 AM

CMSgt Elbert Eloriaga — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 09:56:55 -0400

We're still ALL VETERANS regardless. Those who stayed behind still supported the ones out on the front line.

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Sep 19 at 2017 4:28 PM

1SG Harold Piet — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 16:28:40 -0400

As a retired 1SG, I respect the combat vets for what they went through, but all vets were available and normally have no control over where or how they serve. I am a non combat vet

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 19 at 2017 10:04 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 22:04:41 -0400

Combat does change you but I don't necessarily look down on someone who hasn't been there. It took the Army over 20 years to send me to a combat zone and I went involuntarily both times, 2004-05 and 2009-10. I was a single father with 3 kids the first time and happily remarried the second so had no motivation to go get shot at but I went anyway without a fuss. Since 1985, I've never met anyone who got to pick their missions. We get what we get. The only guys I had a hard time with were the active duty E-7 to E-9s and the O-4 to O-6s who were still slick sleeves in 2010 after 8 years of war while almost every Guardsman I knew had at least two tours. It seems to me with the 2-3 year tours the active component has that if you hadn't deployed in those 8 years you had to be trying pretty hard NOT to.

Response by LCDR Robert Bickle made Sep 21 at 2017 4:21 PM

LCDR Robert Bickle — Thu, 21 Sep 2017 16:21:57 -0400

A Veteran is a Veteran. We all took the same oath, made the same commitment, and took the same risks. Just because I was in combat and the Veteran next to me did not does not make any difference in the amount of respect I have for them.

Response by SSgt Mose Carter made Nov 24 at 2017 1:17 PM

SSgt Mose Carter — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 13:17:41 -0500

I don't think there is any animosity between combat veterans and those who have not gone into combat. Everyone does not have the choice to go into a combat zone. I served two tours in a combat zone and I do know there is a closeness between combat veterans and those who did not serve in a combat zone. I have friends who have served in a combat zone and those who served in Germany Korea and elsewhere. The military has a broad job coverage in this world and everyone can't be in the same place at the same time. The military has broad worldwide operations. We all should be proud to serve or have served our great nation.

Response by Sgt Robert Mitchell made Apr 17 at 2018 1:19 AM

Sgt Robert Mitchell — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 01:19:49 -0400

What keeps all the bad actors of this world from doing things like snuffing out the lives of Jews in WW2 all the way through time to now when the latest from current news of chemical warfare against the citizens of Syria are the people who sign up to wear the uniform of our military. Most will sign up not knowing exactly what they will encounter. Some may join up spicifically for a unit that is currently fighting believing they will soon join the fight. Some of this group may be fast on their way to be deployed but wake up the next morning with a fever that sends them home to never see more than an office desk and the wall filled with dramatic pictures of the decorated living and the dead warriors that preceded them.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2018 6:34 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 06:34:27 -0400

You probably feel worse than a combat vet cares that you didn’t go.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 17 at 2018 9:30 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 09:30:36 -0400

NO animosity- but the bond is just not as tight- kinda like being a grunt on the front lines dealing with USAF who supported from a safe airbase. Bottom line we are all Vets, and should/must respect each others service, regardless were it took place or when.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Nov 23 at 2018 1:08 PM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Fri, 23 Nov 2018 13:08:56 -0500

It's same thing as PTSD you don't have to go to combat to get it.

Response by 1SG Dennis Hicks made Nov 23 at 2018 5:33 PM

1SG Dennis Hicks — Fri, 23 Nov 2018 17:33:15 -0500

Those mature enough to know will only invest some funny kidding around and then share knowledge. Good troops always share experiences to help newer ones adjust and be prepared. A-Holes lord over those that haven't gotten any combat time.

Response by MAJ Steve Daugherty made Aug 23 at 2019 10:48 PM

MAJ Steve Daugherty — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 22:48:00 -0400

My first enlistment in the Army was in 1971, during the Vietnam War. We all expedited to go and were trained to operate in that environment, we all got called baby killers and spat at by anti war paragons of virtue. But when my training and schools were finished they sent only 2 in our NCO class to SE Asia and the rest of us to Europe. So I never claim to be a VN vet as I never served “in country “ but feel like I understand and am empathetic to my brothers who were there. It is literally a luck of the draw sometimes

Response by CW4 Jim Struder made Aug 24 at 2019 7:03 PM

CW4 Jim Struder — Sat, 24 Aug 2019 19:03:17 -0400

I served for 29 years; 1977-2006. By the luck of the draw, never made it to Iraq or Afghanistan; not by request, just wasn't in the "right" place due to the needs of the Army. If that makes me less of a soldier in some people's eyes, oh well.

Response by SMSgt Robert Anderson made Aug 24 at 2019 11:19 PM

SMSgt Robert Anderson — Sat, 24 Aug 2019 23:19:54 -0400

You have to do what you have to do and if I served with you I would encourage you to take care of your family.

Response by CPT Brad Wilson made Aug 26 at 2019 12:05 AM

CPT Brad Wilson — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 00:05:17 -0400

No shame in taking care of your family If not for these illnesses you would have gone so I wouldn’t look down on you

Response by SSG Pedro Tapia made Aug 27 at 2019 3:24 AM

SSG Pedro Tapia — Tue, 27 Aug 2019 03:24:09 -0400

This is a good cop/ bad cop situation. I will play the bad cop and tell you how many of us feel about it. You sign on the dotted line to serve and protect this country above all. If your commander leave you behind to take care of your family you should be grateful to that man, but wasn't right either. Someone took your place on that deployment that probably got a wife and kids just like you. You should have make arrangements like many single parents do to take care of your wife and dont use her as a excuse to be undeployable. I miss my first 2 daughters birth and probably 5 years of my marriage life serving the US Army in a combat arms MOS. If your family situation is unbearable as for you to fulfill your part of the deal you need to find a new way to pay your bills. That goes for transgenders in transition. The Armed forces is not a place for you to get fix up while others take the risk of a combat zone deployment in your place.

Response by MCPO Daniel Meffen made Feb 9 at 2020 6:18 PM

MCPO Daniel Meffen — Sun, 09 Feb 2020 18:18:45 -0500

I guess serving on an Aircraft Carrier, supplying the steam to push that ship thru the water, and launch those aircraft is the same thing. I was not in combat, as such, but I provided the service they needed to complete the mission. But never thought I did not serve in a combat zone!!

Response by SSG Jason Penn made Feb 9 at 2020 10:54 PM

SSG Jason Penn — Sun, 09 Feb 2020 22:54:57 -0500

You chose to put on the uniform with the understanding that you could deploy at any time. It was not your fault that you didn't serve in combat. Circumstances do arise from time to time. As a combat vet, myself, I understand that there is a need for Sailors, Soldiers, Marines, and Airmen outside of a combat zone. I view you as a brother vet. The only animosity I have towards non-combat vets are those who intentionally looked for ways to get out of a combat tour. There is no animosity from me towards a non-combat vet who either was in a non-deployable status due to unit assignment or MOS need, nor any towards those who could not deploy due to circumstances out of their control (as in your case).

Response by SSG William Compton made Feb 10 at 2020 11:53 AM

SSG William Compton — Mon, 10 Feb 2020 11:53:59 -0500

You are just as much a veteran as anybody else.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2020 7:00 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Feb 2020 19:00:36 -0500

As long as it isn’t a bs reason, then I have no reason.

Case n point, had a 1sgt said he “tried” to deploy. He was an apt instructor, then an ait drill sgt, then did five years in Korea

Response by MSG Brian Wiscott made Oct 30 at 2020 12:29 PM

MSG Brian Wiscott — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 12:29:39 -0400

Being a Retired "Combat Vet" myself this is what I always felt, even though I was in theater and running in convoys 2 or 3 times a week, I wasn't kicking down doors or clearing town's. Jobs that I had trained for during my active duty time. I still get the feeling that I didn't serve to my full potential. However all of the jobs and personnel that make up this great military have to be utilized so that those who do 'kick down doors" can do their jobs. The same thing goes for all of the different branches of the military, they are at times needed to do a job that only they can do. Only you could have done the job that you were doing, and you might have only been placing your comrades in jeopardy had you went with them. Soldiers need to be focused on their job and not distracted by things at home.

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Dec 31 at 2021 3:38 PM

1SG Harold Piet — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 15:38:19 -0500

I spent 20years, sept 75- oct 95. I never deployed to combat. Airborne, air assault, always a wheeled mechanic. Airborne engineers 10 years. airborne infantry 2 years. I feel your pain. I was available, I was ready, I was never called. I feel like the Army had a party, I was all dressed up and never invited.

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made Feb 21 at 2022 11:18 AM

SPC Lyle Montgomery — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 11:18:31 -0500

I am an Army combat vet and have no anamosity to anyone who served, whatever branch they were in. I also have no problem with those who never entered the service. However I have no respect for those who were draft dodgers and went to Canada. To me they were corards and should be looked down upon. Anyone who thinks that their combat service is more imporntant than others is shortsided. It takes combat support from all sides to fight in combat

Response by CPL Larry Frias Jr made Jul 16 at 2022 10:02 PM

CPL Larry Frias Jr — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 22:02:33 -0400

There is no difference between a combat and noncombat vet …as a combat vet I can tell you brother that in the Nam the noncombat vets had our backs and were at the ready

Response by CPL Larry Frias Jr made Jul 16 at 2022 10:15 PM

CPL Larry Frias Jr — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 22:15:38 -0400

From one Cpl to another Cpl …and when u cut I bleed as well …well said

Response by SPC Timothy Barclay made Jul 16 at 2022 11:58 PM

SPC Timothy Barclay — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 23:58:33 -0400

veterans are my brother and sisters and combat are my close brothers and sisters

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jul 17 at 2022 9:18 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 09:18:28 -0400

8-year-old thread, but just popped up in my feed. No idea if I responded before, and if i did, would be interesting if I responded generally the same this time.
MSgt Private RallyPoint Member "Combat vets how do you feel toward non-combat vets"
How?, that implies I think or feel there is a difference... I do not.
Veteran = a citizien (and sometimes not even that yet) who volunteers to join the military, particates and completes in training, accepts the assignments and tasks given them, and completes them to the best of their abilities. Is released from military service honorably or under honorable conditions...
No combat qualifier, no deployed to a combat area. As long as the said vet did not do something to avoid those things with full intent what they were doing was done for the purpose of avoiding deployment to a combat area.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Jul 17 at 2022 12:52 PM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 12:52:27 -0400

I can see this is an old thread. But RP keeps posting it in my "recent" feed, so.....

In general.... No. But I will admit that it depends on the circumstances.

In OIF 1, we had a female who literally got pregnant to avoid deployment. As soon as the order came down, she told her friends she was going to try to get pregnant so she wouldn't have to go. And BOY did she try. The guys in the barracks were very thankful. And she succeeded. No deployment for her, and she was out of the Army a little less than a year later for FCP with an honorable discharge. Yes, I hold animosity towards her.

Now, she was, by FAR, the RARE exception. We had another female who found out she was pregnant on the VERY LAST pre-deployment check. She had tested negative two weeks prior. She cussed out the medics and told them they were wrong and there was NO WAY they were making her stay home. Three more positive tests later, she was taken off the manifest. Against her will. She was also out of the Army about a year later but that was at the end of her contract. I hold NO animosity towards her.

In general, it is not up to us who gets picked and who does not. But there are SOME folks who go out of their way to dodge deployment. We all know who they are. Again, these folks are, by FAR, the RARE exceptions. But they exist. And I hold those folks in less esteem than my deployed brethren and sistren.

Last anecdote. I attended the retirement ceremony for the Chief Warrant Officer of the MI Corps. He was a CW5 who was the senior Warrant for all MI.

At the ceremony was the CG of the MI Corps, the CSM of the MI Corps, and the new Chief Warrant of the MI Corps all on the stage. The senior-most Enlisted, Warrant, and Officer for all of MI. And me, an MI NCO in the audience, had more combat stripes than all three of them. COMBINED. And yes, that pissed me off a great deal. I understand that deployments are a matter of "luck." But this was 2015; 14 years into the GWOT. After 14 years of combat - which these three had not only been in for the ENTIRE time, but had been mid-grade to senior leaders the entire time, too - the "luck" tends to average out. Having only one or two combat stripes after 14 years of being a mid-grade to senior leader DURING ACTIVE COMBAT is questionable. And that these leaders were REWARDED with these senior positions by dodging deployment was exceptionally frustrating for the guy with 5 deployments - 3 of them as a SFC - and NO chance of promotion.

So, for me, it is very much a question of why didn't you deploy? For folks like you who got out in 2004, my natural assumption will be that you just didn't have the chance. The GWOT was pretty new, Iraq had just started, not THAT many people had gotten their rotation yet. And if you retired in 2004, it means your packet dropped in 2003, and the chances that they deploy someone with an approved packet is even less. So I wouldn't even ask the question. I would assume "no harm, no foul," and would thank you for your years of commitment and WILLINGNESS to answer the call, even though the call never came. (In your case, the call came to the unit, but the unit leadership chose not to call you, personally.). The same would hold true for any "one and done" folks who got out after their first enlistment.

But if you had retired in 2014 with no deployment, I'm gonna start asking some questions. And I will be expecting to hear answers I don't like.

Maybe that is a bit knuckle dragger of me, maybe it is a bit entitled, maybe it is something else, I don't know. But that's the honest truth. And I would bet there are a few more like me just not willing to say it because it isn't "proper" to question anyone's career choices.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2022 9:07 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 21:07:28 -0400

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member I believe you were Blessed with a compassionate Commander & Chief to allow you to take care of your wife. You are to be commended as well for you dedication to your wife. You served your Country where they assigned you... absolutely no shame there. Thanks for your service! You are also continuing to serve RP Members in answering their questions. You have a Servants heart.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Jul 18 at 2022 11:20 PM

MAJ Byron Oyler — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 23:20:50 -0400

You wanna know where the animosity is from this vet that did a tour in Afghanistan? You never saw the horrible things people do to other people, you never get bothered by fireworks, you dont see an Afghan dressed in traditional attire and get uncomfortable. The animosity is you dont suffer from what you did not experience and be thankful for that. Animosity is not a the word, jealously is. Enjoy your retirement and enjoy the issues you do not have. I am jealous.

Response by 1SG John Millan made Feb 22 at 2024 8:15 PM

1SG John Millan — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 20:15:39 -0500

Thanks for your service bro! Nuff said!