Did your military experience influence your thinking about war or about the military in general?

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:21:06 -0500

Did your military experience influence your thinking about war or about the military in general?

RP Members share your thoughts about how you felt after serving in wartime or peacetime and how you felt about the military after you retired or left the service?

For me, it made me a very humble human being and made even more thankful for the country I was born in and the freedom we enjoy!

Response by SGT John " Mac " McConnell made Feb 14 at 2016 10:25 AM

SGT John " Mac " McConnell — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:25:59 -0500

I reflect back every day on my experience in the Army... As a matter of fact The wisdom that was taught to me way back then...I still use today.. One never forgets certain things that turned a negative into a positive. Thanks for sharing COL Mikel J. Burroughs

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Feb 14 at 2016 10:27 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:27:09 -0500

I'm more pragmatic about this. I'm like everyone else and had no clue of what war or military really was until I experienced it. So yes we are shaped by what we learn and experience. The flip side is what I think of non military and have to remind myself they didn't have the experience, hence really can't relate. Then I remind myself that I wasn't a barber, baker, or bricklayer, hence never walking the proverbial mile in their moccasins, I'm careful not to to prejudge anything. Muck that up sometimes, but I guess that's being human.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Feb 14 at 2016 10:28 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:28:08 -0500

The military left me feeling very patriotic; and proud of my service. It didn't make me feel any less dislike for war; nor any more cognizant of its necessity. COL Mikel J. Burroughs

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Feb 14 at 2016 10:38 AM

LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:38:55 -0500

Yes it did. When the Iraq war first started, I was distressed by the anti-war people. Then I started learning a lot, and realized what a flawed premise this war was. It really came down to nothing more than a Napoleonic Texan trying to build his ego.

That said, had I been physically qualified, I would have gone back in as a chaplain, in a heartbeat...

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 10:48 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:48:25 -0500

Going to Iraq and Afghanistan made me much, much more serious about the content and quality of the training my unit conducted.
When I got to theater, first contact put in stark relief how woefully unprepared we were. Two weeks in, we were dealing with our second destroyed vehicle and the loss of two KIA and five WIA. I vowed that when I got a company, it would never be that way.

Response by SSgt Robert Marx made Feb 14 at 2016 10:59 AM

SSgt Robert Marx — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:59:42 -0500

I had the privilege of being deployed in Japan for a year at MCAS Iwakuni. It was humbling to spend time in a country at war with my country only 50 years previously (I was there in the mid 90's) and now tied together in an alliance. Spending time in other nations helps to broaden the view and to cement the concept that all of us upon the earth are connected. I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to serve my nation.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Feb 14 at 2016 11:06 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 11:06:11 -0500

Only an automaton could serve, especially in time of war, and not be influenced. I well-remember all who served in Vietnam looking around and commenting aloud, "I wish my wife/mother/sister could see this." They were marveling at the comparison between the lives of the Vietnamese as contrasted to their own back home. Watching a family squatting around a cooking pot is nothing like an American family at its dinner table. Watching a mama-san sweeping the packed dirt floor of her home with a palm frond is nothing like mother vacuuming the living room carpet. Watching refugees fleeing in terror as two opposing forces collide has no comparison to anything in America. Yes, the old African proverb is true: "When two bulls fight it is the grass that suffers."

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Feb 14 at 2016 11:28 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 11:28:57 -0500

Actually my study of military history since I was a child significantly influenced my view on war and the military before I enlisted COL Mikel J. Burroughs. What I learned in the following 34 years of service tended to reinforce what I learned. I also did my best to continue to learn while I was in the military. I learned from those I led as well as who led me.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Feb 14 at 2016 11:51 AM

COL Charles Williams — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 11:51:11 -0500

Yes it did/does COL Mikel J. Burroughs.. Everyday.

I stayed for 33 years because I simply loved it, I fit it, I was good at it, and I made a difference everyday. I had a boss who told me, after he left, the worst day in the Army, is better than the best day in the civilian world - work world; he was right.

When I left, it was time for me to go (I could have stayed, as jobs awaited). But, as I stood at the podium, for the very last time, at my retire ceremony,... It hit me hard, that I would never wear that uniform again... and it was quite emotional; I had worn nothing but from 1980 - 2013. I was ready to go. I will always miss it, but at the same time I don't miss it... If that makes sense...

Today, in retrospect, I wonder about all the operations I was on, all the Soldiers we lost, and the many more who were wounded for life, and if any of it will matter in the annuls of history? Only time will tell.

I am proud to be a Soldier, and I am proud of all those who willingly step up.

I also realize to most Americans (the other 99.55 percent) have no desire to serve, and have no idea what the military actually does for them directly or indirectly, nor do most realize we are still in a very real war.

Finally, I feel more and more like most people take for granted what a special place the USA is.

Response by SP5 Mark Kuzinski made Feb 14 at 2016 11:56 AM

SP5 Mark Kuzinski — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 11:56:48 -0500

My military experiences opened my eyes and mind to the world. I would not trade those experiences for anything.

Response by SPC David S. made Feb 14 at 2016 12:08 PM

SPC David S. — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:08:19 -0500

I became more aware of all the trivial complaints of Americans. Hearing someone's diatribe on why the grocery store is out of almond milk or the conundrum they faced in deciding what fast food to hork down is likely not going to sit well with me. Likewise you wont find me bitching about things.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 12:30 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:30:51 -0500

I learned a lot about differing cultures and backgrounds. It also helped shape a lot of how I think and feel about the U.S. as a whole.

Response by 2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 12:33 PM

2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:33:30 -0500

Yes, sir. Without a doubt my service influences my thinking about the military and war. War is simple; it's an evil necessity. As we all know, war is merely an extension of policy when other measures used to obtain a goal fail. As long as the human exists, war will be a permanent component of the human condition. That said, war is but one of many indicators demonstrating how flawed the human race really is. Terrible atrocities are committed during war. What makes it different for US military personnel is the standards we're held to. When we deploy troops somewhere, we try to be the actor doing the right thing--even though that doesn't always turn out to be the case. The people who comprise our military are generally good, upstanding people. People who want to make a difference in this screwed up world, which is a very laudable endeavor. If someone attacks us, our Allies or overseas interests, it only makes sense that we should reserve the right to use overwhelming and swift military force to stop hostile activities.

These next several sections of my response are an attempt to articulate the back and forth argument I have with myself almost daily regarding the importance of military service.

When war is imminent or occurring, having a strong, robust military is essential, right? Almost no one questions the military's purpose. We value freedom and we'll be damned if someone [hostile nation/terrorist organization] is going to try and take it from us. Again, totally makes sense. However it's those lulls between the conflicts ['peacetime'] that make me question (on a macro scale) the military's omnipresence throughout the globe, our insane budgets and how much money the military wastes on weapons systems that are of questionable need (Navy's green fuel project, the F-35, the USAF's proposed LRSB, etc'). Do we really need these things to maintain our edge over the other superpowers? Are those superpowers really looking for a fight of that scale anytime soon?

On a micro scale, I question the reason so many people voluntarily leave behind their comfortable civilian lives to join the military? Are all those missed holidays, child births, family deaths and painful divorces really worth the time away? Do we really need so many people in uniform? If reduced our military's size, would Russia or China really try to directly threaten us or usurp our world presence? Would our liberty really be threatened if it were not for the service and sacrifice of a very small percentage of our country's population?

As soon as I turn on the news and see that ISIS cut someone's head off and put it on youtube, China is building its military strength relentlessly or that Russia annexed one of its former satellite nations forcibly (in violation of international law), all the questions above become a resounding YES. I understand the value of force projection and strategic positioning of vital military assets around the globe for contingencies--but I also understand economics. I am cognizant of how much we [the military collectively] costs the American taxpayer. I also understand that weakness invites aggression and with that in mind I find it acceptable to spend hundreds of billions of dollars on our mighty War Machine as long as it's strong enough to effectively deter other nations from wanting to wage war against the US. I would rather see money spent in the hopes of deterring war as opposed to actually risking the lives of our service men and women and innocent civilians abroad. My service has really opened my mind.

These are questions I never considered prior to entering the service and even for a good portion of my career. My service has certainly opened my mind, but I often ask myself questions that I fear I will never find a personally acceptable answer to. It's a dichotomy unlike any other I have ever experienced.

Response by LTC John Shaw made Feb 14 at 2016 12:37 PM

LTC John Shaw — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:37:53 -0500

It makes me realize that my life in Ohio is blessed. I am humbled and grateful for the time I spend with my wife and children. I can go to work and meet with family and friends, relatively worry free.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Feb 14 at 2016 1:17 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 13:17:40 -0500

Serving in the early 90's Desert Storm was winding down, folks were taking the early retirements, and all the garrison rules and games were in FULL effect. Regular inspections, irregular ranges, hip pocket training, details, details, and MORE details. Shining everything under the sun. Smoke sessions. Then came 9/11 and the massive transformation to a wartime Army. It was weird to see, thrilling to be a part of, and an accomplishment that cannot be taken away. Looking back, I see now where newer troops who've never really known garrison Army, are complaining about it, but this is a very "tame" version of what it was. Some have forgotten the ways and means of things that were ignorant, trivial, but extremely important. Spit shining boots, pressing uniforms, PMCS and dispatching of vehicles, Class A inspections, all are tedious and dehumanizing if 1SG or the CSM finds a shortcoming on your uniform, but it was a way to get troops to remember attention to detail. Now all you will hear is "how does this matter? It's not part of the Battle Drills", and "it's not preparing me for battle". You'd be missing the point. No you won't be inspected in combat (except PCC and PCI's), but knowing where everything is, knowing that's it's clean and serviceable, or knowing how to adapt to change does. I'm really thankful I had the chance to serve in garrison Army and in Wartime Army. Wouldn't change a thing.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Feb 14 at 2016 1:24 PM

Capt Seid Waddell — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 13:24:25 -0500

My wartime service both formed and illuminated my world view, and it continues to do so today.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 1:40 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 13:40:06 -0500

Seeing the struggles of how others overseas lived changed my thinking not about the military or war, but about my faith and my life. Both civilian and military life can cause us to obsess over things that, in the long term, are not truly relevant or meaningful to our values. The next promotion, the next assignment, a bigger house, a bigger paycheck. What really matters, whether in the counterinsurgency fight or the corporate boardroom (more in common than people think), is that we come out of it having improved both ourselves and each other.

There's a quote by C.S. Lewis - "Indeed, if we consider the unblushing promises of reward and the staggering nature of the rewards promised in the Gospels, it would seem that Our Lord finds our desires, not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased."

While I see this through a Christian lens, I believe the point still stands regardless of your worldview - the idea that we have the ability to make the world such a better place to be, but we let ourselves get distracted by trivialities.

I am thankful to be an American. I am even more thankful that I have an opportunity, as an American servicemember, to make life better for others around me.

Response by COL Ted Mc made Feb 14 at 2016 1:47 PM

COL Ted Mc — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 13:47:37 -0500

COL Mikel J. Burroughs - Mikel; When I joined I thought that "War was 'glamorous'." and that "The military bonded people together.".

I was half right.

Unfortunately there are (a lot of) times that the bonding is caused by less than felicitous reasons.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 2:26 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 14:26:55 -0500

Servicing overseas in peacetime, being activated for Desert Storm and Shield as a DI, in addition to traveling overseas as a civilian, gave me much to reflect on for the blessings of our country. Our country is truly the successful experiment.

My military experience taught me that most cultures/countries in the world only respect strength, for one reason or another, usually mostly for security. Our military provides the strength they see and is a tangible, stabilizing influence around the globe. No one wants war, but when it comes we better be ready… and everyone out there (in the world, not so much in our own country) wants to be on the winning side, make no mistake about it.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 2:37 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 14:37:10 -0500

Sir, the military enhanced my leadership skills and taught me discipline. The military is a brotherhood, and I can sum up my feelings this way: "Once a Marine, Always a Marine." I was changed by the sights and sounds that I experienced in Vietnam. I am more cynical now and have no tolerance for B.S. Our government should not put the military in harm's way, unless we are going to stay the course.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Feb 14 at 2016 3:01 PM

Sgt Kelli Mays — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 15:01:22 -0500

No...I think growing up on base and father being in the service influenced me first and I carried that over into my active duty status, and still feel the same.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 3:45 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 15:45:29 -0500

My military experience was enhanced and I felt a sense of accomplishment then from my 2 deployments in two war zones. I knew the public was against it somehow but I volunteered to go to Iraq and I was happy to get deployed to Afghanistan. We had leadership that, in spite of their problems, wanted to win and not worry about global warming as being more important.

I was a fobbit for most of my time in OIF 2004/2005 and OEF. I was an LNO in OIF and a Humanitarian Project Officer in OEF 2008/2009. I did go on a convoy in an open 5 ton and sand bags for protection from one base to another in Iraq and the stares from the people who stopped and looked when we stopped made us all feel unwelcome and one of my soldiers almost shot a kid who was about to throw a rock at him. I was not involved with TICs or SVBIEDS though I did lose my 1SG (and his commander in the same vehicle against SOP) to one in May, 2009.
I have seen the first parliamentary election in Iraq in 2005. I saw what I thought was the beginning of stability in Kirkuk Iraq while at the same time Shia and Sunni elements were attacking our soldiers. I went to at least 6 ramp ceremonies. Half were from rollovers and half from IEDs command detonated. As an LNO, I saw ODA do the mission live from a UAV feed in my BDE TOC. I saw the results of our advances in COIN and it was looking to be better in the Kirkuk area of Iraq.

Now, I see Iraqis driving Abrhams tanks with Hezbollah flags that the A-10s Warthogs are ordered to leave alone this shia terror group fighting with Iran against a Sunni terror group. Now that are forces are down to a small number in Afghanistan, I am glad we are not giving an end date to leave that country otherwise it will fall into ISIL, Al Quaida or corrupt Afghan opium drug lords.
I am more cynical now. We lost billions of dollars and thousands of lives and guys like Snowden and messed up PFC Bradley(I want to be another Bruce Jenner) Manning have given away so many secrets and who knows how many of our locals are dead or hiding in Europe because of all the classified data on who reported what the enemy has now. I hope Manning stays 'a man" at Fort Leavenworth for the rest of his life in military prison.We do not owe him a sex change operation when so many lives were lost because of his drug abuse and depression. Hillary Clinton's own server I am sure has been breached and more secrets given but they threaten Gen. Petraeus but they leave her alone.

I hope in 2017 we have a new moral compass that cares about the armed forces and who puts climate change as a secondary threat instead of the POTUS saying its the primary threat when we have....

Russians in Crimea, Syria and posturing on NATO's E and Baltic allies and flying bear bombers probing W Europe and Canada.
ISIL all over the middle East.
Hezbollah using American Abrams tanks...
China afraid of Thaad missle system but doing nothing against N. Korean Missle systems but they still bully many nations in the South China Sea.
We are buying oil from Iran but we put off 2 pipelines to Canada blue falconing a Nato Ally.
Iran theatening Israel and Israel looking as the bad guy even though the iron dome stopped the rocket attacks so now hezbollah is back into tunneling in to cause chaos.

The world is an unsafe place. Our enemies are suffereing from low oil prices too...Russia, Venezuela, Iran and others yet we give Iran an agreement that allows them big windfall and we hope they don't cheat on making a nuke!

My views were hopeful a decade ago but I am saddened by the cheapening of our reputation these last 8 years and now we may be picked on by other world bullies because we don't show any moral courage to stand up to them!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4FkNbtkgps

The Iran Nuclear Deal

Is the nuclear agreement between the United States and Iran a good or bad deal? Would it be harder or easier for Iran to develop nuclear weapons? Would it ma...

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Feb 14 at 2016 5:19 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 17:19:34 -0500

Love your questions, as they make me sit back and think before just typing an answer! I learned that war is a politicians game and a LOT of our brothers and sisters would still be with us if that weren't the case. I also learned that I am blessed to be an American, regardless of how effed up our politicians make our country. We live in a country where almost anything is possible, where we have thousands of options of what or where we are going to eat, where we can take 30 minutes (or more) showers without a second thought, where we can judge someone standing on the corner asking for help because they are going through some tough times because we happen to have a job, a house and clean clothes on our backs.

I also learned to be very much more appreciated towards my Vietnam brothers and sisters whom were spat on and called baby killers upon their return.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Feb 14 at 2016 7:31 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 19:31:31 -0500

Absolutely, COL Mikel J. Burroughs! Just from an educational perspective alone, my thought processes were altered. I really started learning more about how "things tick" when I attended the C&GS Officer Course. That coursework and some of the required reading certainly altered my perspective. For that reason, I would have enjoyed attending one of the senior service colleges, but that was not to be.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 11:53 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 23:53:37 -0500

I had the advantage of being a Military Brat for the first 21 years of my life. So when I joined the Navy at 21 I new what I was getting into. I was taught Service before self and service for others. This is what kept me going.

My MOS is a little different as Being a Seabee are primary Job is Civil Humanitarian and Civil Affairs type missions, Disaster Recovery Operations and Direct Combat support. I have seen people in the worst conditions you can ever think of or imagine. Things form Hurricane Recovery, Earth quakes, Combat destruction to towns and digging up mass graves. Doing all of this I knew that we were needed and the job we do is for the better good. When people see us helping fix their problems it is amazing to see their faces especially when we finish projects like schools and town playgrounds it makes you feel like you are doing something important. When we are building up berms around FOB's KOP's and VSP's for the ones taking the fight to bad guys so they can be protected, so they can rest. That is such a grate feeling of accomplishment.

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made Feb 15 at 2016 8:22 AM

MSgt Wayne Morris — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 08:22:16 -0500

My military career was responsible for framing a large portion of my life. I learned never to sweat the small stuff as it will take care of itself, there are a lot of wonderful people out there in the world and after kicking around the globe including some places most could never find on a map how lucky we are to live in this nation. I learned that being "poor" in this country is a lot better than being poor in many other countries except in rare cases. I learned how to be humble and not to expect instant gratification and more importantly meant the love of my life for 33 years now.

Response by SSG Leo Bell made Feb 15 at 2016 8:33 AM

SSG Leo Bell — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 08:33:19 -0500

I know my experiences opened my eyes to the great privileges that we get here in the United States. When you go to some of these countries and see how those people live and what they go thru in everyday life and it's sad compared to how we live here in the US. It has made me humble and greatful for what I had. People complain all the times about how they have it bad and don't make enough money on there jobs.
Don't get me wrong I will still defend this country to my last breath.
I thought Iraq stunk while I was there and didn't like being there but if it wasn't for my brothers there and supporting each other have having each other to talk to. I think allot of us wouldn't have any good experience there.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Feb 15 at 2016 9:43 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 09:43:17 -0500

Most Definitely. Little did I realize that my Electronic Pranks as a child had a real use in the Military. Little did I realize that my actions would actually result in Peoples Deaths and how that would affect my future thinking. It Gave me more of a "Big Picture" than I ever had before. Took a Local KC Metro Citizen and made a World Citizen.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Feb 15 at 2016 1:44 PM

PO1 Glenn Boucher — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 13:44:34 -0500

Having never been in direct combat but still being in combat zones while deployed on a ship it certainly has changed how I viewed war before joining and I keep thinking about how were still involved with no real clear end in sight.
Normal deployments are tough enough but toss in a war and your adding a whole new level of stress.
You have to balance the war and what needs to be done to accomplish the mission with your personal beliefs, not easy for everyone to do.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 5:05 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 17:05:37 -0500

The military has always been a big part of my life. And I always had a great respect for those who served. But after serving myself I have developed a deeper appreciation and respect for veterans past and present. For the sacrifices that many have made. The sacrifices of the family. It is one thing for the public to say support our military. That's pretty easy but to actually take action is much more beneficial. And shows the real appreciation and support of those who serve. One reason I have always been an advocate of Americans at least serving two years in the military or at least in a community service. Is to develop that respect and appreciation but to also get that fulfilling feeling of accomplishment of giving of yourself for others. It is also very rewarding to see this love, respect, duty and honor passed from one generation to the next. My life has been molded and shaped by my military service and I'm very proud that my sons carry on the traditions. One who serves today in the Army SSG Steven Borders, the other who gives to his community as a volunteer firefighter. No greater honor to have served the country you love!

Response by SFC Jim Mergott made Feb 15 at 2016 6:43 PM

SFC Jim Mergott — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 18:43:00 -0500

Yes. Lucky. Me and the guys I was with got lucky .

Response by Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns made Feb 16 at 2016 9:59 AM

Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 09:59:54 -0500

When it comes to war, it has greatly influenced my thinking by allowing me to see that all wars begin with a disagreement between two people then the chess match begins normally with us being the pawns. As far as the military, it was and always be the third best thing that has ever happened to me the first being God Almighty and the second being my kids. I used to see strangers as potential enemies and adversaries but now I see them as people and deserving of a valid attempt at understanding. I thank the military for that and so much more.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Feb 16 at 2016 10:18 AM

MCPO Roger Collins — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 10:18:33 -0500

Difficult to top that COL, but I would add that it gave me the experience and knowledge to seriously retire in comfort. I have always felt this nation gave me far more than I gave to it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 3:10 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 15:10:23 -0500

I fought and survived Desert Storm but my buddy next to me did not for he was blown away by friendly chopper hellfire missle and nothing left of his bradley. Also after taking out those jokers and I was still living I thought to myself that I must be really lucky to still be living and I sworn I will never take anything in life for granite ever again like I did before the war. To this day I really enjoy life, I really enjoy drinking a can of coke, a slice of pizza and being married and understanding my wife fully in her ways and all not just mine. You know also after we made contact and destroyed the Tarwakanda Replubilcan Gurad of Saddams we moved into our first TAA Henry and not being there for 15 mins at O dark thirty in the morning my Battallion XO came over to my bradley and said I needed to have a 10 men detail and all the body bags and tags from our platoon tracks, I asked is it because of the explosion that happed just a few minutes ago in the middle of our TAA and he said yes. He stated there were 8 of our young dismounts playing the the unexploded cluster bomblets and one of them kicked the wrong one and a big explosion took place. He read the 8 soldiers name and I knew them all very good, for zi said ok I meet you in the middle give me 10 mins ok, he took off and I had to go in the front of my bradley and I buckled down on my knees and just cried so hard and looking up and asking god why the hell did you have to take these guys today, WHY? Then I had to tighten up and get the detail and bags/tags and started to put burnt flesh into body bags with e-tools and tag them the best we could. Now being all that said I love life, I think of those 8 every living second of every day along with my buddy SSG Christopher Stephens and I make sure I live life right and take things easy and not to get upset at things or go off like I use to while in the army, you all know what I mean. Take a deep breath, relax and stay calm at all times for no one deprogrammed us when we got out for we have to do it out selves and civillian people who never served will not know how to react to you if you still all wounded up like I was when I first got out and still speaking our lingo and all.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Feb 16 at 2016 6:29 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 18:29:24 -0500

My time in the military made me the man I am today and yes it change my perspective on life and the way I think about military and our vectors today. I now appreciate the little things in life. I appreciate being able to cross into another county or state without having to show approval papers or get permission from the government. I appreciate the diversity our nation brings to every aspect of everything we do. I appreciate our landscape...mountains/rivers/canyons/desert/cold/heat etc...all under one roof. I appreciate my family more because I know that my military time protected them and paved the way for future generations. I have an appreciation for the protester...yes that is right, the protester because they validate the very framework of our nation...the constitution under which I served and protected. I appreciate being to worship freely.

I agree with Col Burroughs...it humbled me because I was able to serve with our nations finest ALL VOLUNTEER force and it showed me that no matter what the pundits say, we still have patriots who are willing to stand up for what is right...and serve a country (even with our faults) that is better than any country in the world.

Response by SSG Nathaniel Bendel made Feb 16 at 2016 7:30 PM

SSG Nathaniel Bendel — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 19:30:36 -0500

I was never deployed but working alongside those who have been and hearing their stories and experiences has definitely given me some insight that I wouldn't have had otherwise. I now have a different reaction when I hear civilians start a sentence with "We should..." regarding something involving the military. I don't view the trivial things in everyday life as seriously as I used to. I'm thankful that my family never had to deal with me being gone for 18-24 months but I'm regretful that I didn't get to do, what I felt, was my duty. I'll never know exactly what war is like but I can say that my military experience has changed the way I view it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2016 8:36 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 20:36:22 -0500

Greatly and in many ways I can't even really begin to explain.

Response by MSgt Mike Ruikka made Feb 21 at 2016 2:42 PM

MSgt Mike Ruikka — Sun, 21 Feb 2016 14:42:16 -0500

Although I never served in combat, my service was and is one of the high points in my life! War, while not a priority to any military person, is going to happen whether we want it to or not. If it must happen, I pray for the safety of our active troops, for it is the soldier that bears the scars of war, who prays for war not to happen.

If war must happen, let us hope our political masters are smart enough to have a strong military to deal with what is sent at us!

GOD BLESS THE U.S. MILITARY. ARMY, NAVY, AIR FORCE, MARINES AND COAST GUARD!

Response by MAJ Michael Pauling made Mar 10 at 2016 9:52 AM

MAJ Michael Pauling — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 09:52:51 -0500

The biggest thing I probably learned from military experience was that the perception and reality are wholly different. Inside the wire, life seemed to be pretty much like back in CONUS (with the sirens being a pain) with power point timelines, endless meetings and individuals who have too much thought and very little action. The reality outside the wire was "life goes on as they know it" regardless of our intent or contributions, the Civilan Society found a way to cope with the everyday life many Americans would find chaotic. There are still Wars to fight and missions to be completed but the "End State" can not be a military solution but a Political/Social one that is lasting after the troops come home.

Response by Capt Michael Greene made Apr 24 at 2016 3:20 AM

Capt Michael Greene — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 03:20:22 -0400

From military brat to retirement, I spent my whole life in the military and most of that overseas, seeing how the ROW lived. When I came to America at 42, I was shocked to discover that everybody wasn't healthy, educated and dedicated. 18 years later, I still haven't fully adjusted. I now realize how special we were and how unusual a life we led. I don't expect civvies to understand, nor do I expect them to live up to the same standards. So I am much more forgiving than I used to be.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Apr 24 at 2016 10:34 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 10:34:11 -0400

I have had nothing but good thoughts about my experience in the military and would do it all over again.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2016 10:57 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 10:57:44 -0400

Humble, respectful, generous... I don't think I could ever find an expression that truly portays the feelings I have for our military, or the immense honor I feel, having served.

Response by SFC Roberto Garza Jr. made Apr 24 at 2016 11:01 AM

SFC Roberto Garza Jr. — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 11:01:39 -0400

My combat service made me more thankful for life. My military service made me understand that some where someone's always got it worse, we complain all the time about this or that but never realize some someone has it worse. And after I left the military it made me very humble, I went from a highly respected person in charge of large numbers of personnel and millions of dollars of equipment to just and every day person who had been in the military. I'm thankful for every minute I spent in the military and if it changed me it was for the good.

Response by SFC Marcus Belt made Apr 25 at 2016 5:38 PM

SFC Marcus Belt — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 17:38:35 -0400

I served in a mostly peacetime Navy...bad bad fit. I've served every day of my Army career during wartime. Much better fit.

I'm grateful for my experiences, I'm more grateful for the friendships, and thankful that I've been allowed to provide a very comfortable living for my family.

That said, I think that history will look upon this period very unfavorably, and I have to accept that I was most definitely a part of it, even if only a very small part.

I'm also glad I'll be retiring soon. I've seen the beginnings of a garrison Army (not in my unit: we're still on 1/1 dwell until at least 2018...when I retire) and I have no desire to oversee Soldiers performing silly tasks unrelated to war time missions.

My military experience leads me to think that we, above all institutions, should be among the most pragmatic. We are not. We should practice "time discipline" to an even greater extent than we practice supply discipline. We don't. We should value efficacy above appearance. We do not.

But mostly, it has led me to believe that perhaps we conduct military "interventions" too capriciously, without enough regard for the cost.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2016 6:55 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Apr 2016 18:55:09 -0400

yes it did, as ca/ medical i thought i culd make a difference in the world, but what i got , was we left iraq and the same shit is happening, spent billions of dollars and nothing has changed, i felt that this was an injustice to the sm's before us, with us at the time, ttps change, it was no longer head to head, i was double wammie, medic and payagent civil affairs, most of my contracts i was fine with, women ,childred, work education. but diid this really help. live to this day not knowing what i did helped

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2016 4:39 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Aug 2016 16:39:20 -0400

I'm a lot less "moto" than I used to be.

Response by TSgt Joe C. made Aug 14 at 2016 10:13 AM

TSgt Joe C. — Sun, 14 Aug 2016 10:13:35 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs, on my first deployment to Iraq in 2005, it was the Iraqi's first time voting for a new leader after the Saddam era. Needless to say, we were busy that weekend. It gave me an appreciation I hadn't had prior to that deployment.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2016 1:21 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Aug 2016 13:21:12 -0400

How could your service in the military not change your attitudes about the military, and especially about war, if any of your service was during wartime?

My first change of attitude (beside BCT, which changes everyone's attitude) was when I learned that a grunt with a rifle, slogging around in a rice field or a jungle, with nothing more on him than a few days supplies, a K-Bar, a rifle, plenty of ammo (he hoped), and a little pogie bait, is the real shit. That's America's cutting edge fighting force right there. Hundreds and thousands of those tired, hot, mean, scared, ruthless little SOBs is what wins America's wars right there. I know they get help from the tanks and artillery and airplanes and helicopters (thank God for our Choppers to get us out of some of the shit we got into), and the planes to get us home and the ships that fire those Volkswagon sized bullets at 'em from somewhere. But it's us Grunts on the ground, face-to-face with the enemy that are gonna win the wars.

The Generals and Admirals can do whatever they want, moving little things around on sand tables and map boards. They can make plans and timelines, move resources around, plan logistics and do all that other stuff that's important, no doubt. But once they've got us on the ground and they keep us stocked with ammo, plenty of C-Rats, a hot meal when we're back in camp, and a cold beer now and then, we'll fight their damned war till the cows come home.

At the other end of my career, I fought a war with the Generals and Admirals. I hope I remembered my earlier lessons about war while fighting at this level. I was handling the highest level of special intelligence our nation's system had to offer and advising the flag officers about what it meant. I was selecting targets that would be the most valuable for us in one sense, and the least valuable in others. I set up targets for other purposes. I put peoples' lives at risk with some of my plans; I saved many other lives. I was responsible for the death of many Iraqi forces with some of my targeting work. Hard choices, but they had to be made.

So I learned war isn't any easier when it's fought from a distance than when it's fought face-to-face; it isn't any easier when you're a young, junior troop who doesn't know anything than when you're a senior NCO who has trained for nearly an entire career for just the moment a war calls you forward. Either one is a challenge, both physically and morally. I learned war isn't neat and pretty like it is in the movies, although I already knew that in my gut, but when you see it up close, it's very real. I learned that war touches you inside, deeper than you probably know. I have feelings coming out of me now, writing this, that haven't come out of me in more than 40 years. Deep feelings that are pretty painful. So I'm going to stop now.

Response by SSG Derrick L. Lewis MBA, C-HRM made Aug 14 at 2016 7:20 PM

SSG Derrick L. Lewis MBA, C-HRM — Sun, 14 Aug 2016 19:20:19 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs ,
Great question. My military experience has magnified my humility and empathy. Paying it forward and the team concept is my mantra.

Response by SrA Chris "Shadow" McGee made Aug 16 at 2016 10:49 AM

SrA Chris "Shadow" McGee — Tue, 16 Aug 2016 10:49:39 -0400

My service was cut short by a medical discharge. I still think about my time in service almost daily. It opened my eyes to a variety of different world views and allows me to see various situations from different perspectives.

I may not agree with every world view that I have been exposed to, but at least i can sit down and look at situations with a more open mind. It also showed me that we as a country should look into a single tour of mandatory service for our countrymen. There are very few countries that do not have some form of mandatory service. I feel this would strengthen our leadership in Washington, as everyone will have spent time in service and have a better understanding of what they are asking of our military members.

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Aug 16 at 2016 10:52 AM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Tue, 16 Aug 2016 10:52:36 -0400

Without a doubt, it most certainly does Colonel! It shaped my life and the man I am today, which is just thankful for everything I have and accomplished in life, so far! I still have a lot more to give and a hell of a lot further to go in life. All I can say is what a hell of a journey I already had and I can't wait to see what God has planned for me in the future.

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Aug 16 at 2016 10:58 AM

SCPO David Lockwood — Tue, 16 Aug 2016 10:58:06 -0400

After a career in the military I would be lying if I said that it didn't.

Response by PO1 Robert Gasser made Aug 16 at 2016 11:32 AM

PO1 Robert Gasser — Tue, 16 Aug 2016 11:32:22 -0400

The military made me a strong problem solver. More disciplin and organized. It's very humbling after doin a tour. People in America have it good compared to other nations. I NEVER regret one second of my 27 years. I think every American man should do at least 2 years to help them grow up. I've seen it personally transform a person from being an ass to a respectful and courteous caring person.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2016 2:37 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Aug 2016 02:37:17 -0400

Yes! I always thought the military was well organized and precise. After serving I realized it is a miracle that we even have a country.

Response by PO2 Pete Haga made Aug 17 at 2016 9:44 AM

PO2 Pete Haga — Wed, 17 Aug 2016 09:44:55 -0400

Before my service I would hardly ever worry about world affairs now I can't get enough info on them.

Response by SSG Charles Holleran made Aug 23 at 2016 4:46 AM

SSG Charles Holleran — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 04:46:28 -0400

I guess now that I am out and retired my way of doing things is different than my civilian counterparts and it does get me frustrated when I do my job in a organized, dress right dress way and they don't. I find a way though to work through those times.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Aug 27 at 2016 1:46 PM

SSgt Terry P. — Sat, 27 Aug 2016 13:46:10 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Cardboard or grass huts ,no electricity,no running water ,a field for a toilet,a handful of rice, a piece of dried fish ,maybe a vegetable of some type for the meal of the day,if one of the opposing forces didn't happen to blow up or burn their small field and their hut.
Yes,it changed my perspective and priorities when i returned home from VN.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2016 5:32 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Aug 2016 17:32:32 -0400

My time in the military and on deployments has made me much less of a Hawk. I am cynical of anyone who wants to send troops overseas for any reason.

I think it causes much more harm than good.

Response by SSG David Bennett made Aug 27 at 2016 5:51 PM

SSG David Bennett — Sat, 27 Aug 2016 17:51:47 -0400

You know, being in the military was the best decision that I made hands down. War is hell but you know what, you train for it, you train to engage kill and defeat the enemy. You can't train for civilian life. Once you cross that water and enter into a war zone, you will not be the same person when you get home(unless you were a fobbit and didn't have any real life threatening events happen other than being late to chow). I was 28 when I joined up and regret everyday not going in out of high school. The military is what you make of it just like life, if you have a bad attitude then mostly likely it's gonna suck for you

Response by PVT Mark Brown made Aug 27 at 2016 6:09 PM

PVT Mark Brown — Sat, 27 Aug 2016 18:09:18 -0400

Yes. my original reason for joining the army in 1968 was to avoid the draft and get an mos of MY choosing. After the first couple weeks of basic I began to see things a little differently. I actually became pro-military and began to enjoy and carrier through out my career, short though it was. Upon returning home in 1971 I found things was very different, they were or I was. I suspect I was I that was different. I grew up, boy howdy, did I grow up in a hurry. I look back and there are somethings I wish I would have done differently. To this day I have great respect and admiration for our military and the men and women that serve today. What is amazing is the our military is that today it is 100% volunteer - no draft hanging over ones head. All you men and women having served and service now, I wish you all the Blessing of God on your life and occupation.

Response by PVT Mark Brown made Aug 27 at 2016 6:09 PM

PVT Mark Brown — Sat, 27 Aug 2016 18:09:57 -0400

es. my original reason for joining the army in 1968 was to avoid the draft and get an mos of MY choosing. After the first couple weeks of basic I began to see things a little differently. I actually became pro-military and began to enjoy and carrier through out my career, short though it was. Upon returning home in 1971 I found things was very different, they were or I was. I suspect I was I that was different. I grew up, boy howdy, did I grow up in a hurry. I look back and there are somethings I wish I would have done differently. To this day I have great respect and admiration for our military and the men and women that serve today. What is amazing is the our military is that today it is 100% volunteer - no draft hanging over ones head. All you men and women having served and service now, I wish you all the Blessing of God on your life and occupation.

Response by CPL Rene Wruck made Sep 24 at 2016 9:35 AM

CPL Rene Wruck — Sat, 24 Sep 2016 09:35:41 -0400

My thoughts are not good after serving. I went in the Army with a deep sense of family history as well as pride and left a broken person. I learned not to trust people in leadership roles because of my personal experiences. I won't talk about it in this post as it may trigger others.

Response by SSG Nancy Amore made Sep 24 at 2016 9:52 AM

SSG Nancy Amore — Sat, 24 Sep 2016 09:52:22 -0400

I had no clue what to expect when I joined. I joined to get away from my small town, to travel and see there work. ☺ I did. I traveled and met new people and broaden my view on the world. There are times after I discharged that I wished I had stayed in. I miss the camaraderie, knowing that whatever happened there were people there that always had my back.

Response by PO2 Kristy Williams made Sep 24 at 2016 2:46 PM

PO2 Kristy Williams — Sat, 24 Sep 2016 14:46:32 -0400

Yes, I know we launched planes off the carrier that were bombing. It's difficult to say you want to hurt people (especially now that I'm a nurse) but it's worse to think they could hurt us if we don't. What's right anymore?

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Sep 24 at 2016 10:18 PM

SSG Mark Franzen — Sat, 24 Sep 2016 22:18:55 -0400

HEY COL ALL OF THE ABOVE AND THEN SOME.

Response by SPC Jill Drushal, RN, MA made Sep 28 at 2016 2:53 PM

SPC Jill Drushal, RN, MA — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 14:53:22 -0400

As a disabled veteran married to a disabled Army retiree, I carry both a military ID card and a VA service-connected ID card. Both my husband and I routinely have contact with military facilities. . . My own service increased both my faith and my patriotism. I strongly believe the motto that I created for the front plate on my husband's car. Next to the Army crest, it says, "Train for war. Pray for peace."

Response by SSG Edward McNulty made Oct 15 at 2016 6:27 PM

SSG Edward McNulty — Sat, 15 Oct 2016 18:27:50 -0400

It invigorated my pride in our flag and our country

Response by Sgt John Keogh made Oct 15 at 2016 8:07 PM

Sgt John Keogh — Sat, 15 Oct 2016 20:07:04 -0400

I served during peace time at Edwards Air Force Base, Ca. I had a sense of belonging and made a lot mistakes along the way. Edwards was known as the Country Club on 200,00 acres with a small base in center. At first we had no gates other than the flight line since we mayor highways running through our base. All other bases sent their 'screw ups' to our squadron to get them out of theirs. Mostly guys who did not want to be Cops or on active duty anymore. I think back now to say new Cop recruits should not have been sent there directly out of Tech School. Our weapons/ammunition at start/end of shift was signed out/in each shift at Armory. But we had some corrupt Cops carrying personal guns inside their flight jackets who would pull them when doing traffic stops on personal they wanted to hassle. I cross trained to Corrections Specialist to work base jail to remove myself from being influenced by bad Cops. Most of the inmates we took in were young AWOL s. I tried to counsel these kids as I was 22 years old and older than them with Sergeant stripes. Don't know if I had an impact but I tried. Our squadron finally pulled together with new leadership. New squadron commander, new 1st Lt, new Chief Master Sergeant who were all career Cops. But I was married to a woman who did not like the desert, did not think our Hospital and wanted to leave. Ultimatum she gave, loose my two children or apply for discharge. I signed up for 6 year tour and was in my 4th year. I put together a request for discharge that was being approved. My new squadron commander, whom I had not met personally before, tried to change my mind. Offered to promote me to Staff Sergeant if he could rip up my application. Regretfully, I refused and was discharged Honorably after 4 years, 3 months and 28 days. To this day I regret leaving the service. I lost that sense of belonging. But I did carry over my military ideals to civilian life and lets just say it cost me. To all those who serve careers and/or combat, I salute you all.

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Nov 18 at 2016 4:37 PM

SPC Erich Guenther — Fri, 18 Nov 2016 16:37:26 -0500

Definitely influenced my thinking on war (should be avoided as much as possible in the political sphere or deterred). Military life was a little easier than I thought it would be. I thought the Army would be more regimented and more command and control than it turned out to be. It turned out to be more flexible and a little more relaxed than I thought it would be when I enlisted.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Nov 18 at 2016 5:19 PM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Fri, 18 Nov 2016 17:19:42 -0500

My fragmented thoughts of war became clearer after the Combined General Staff College.

Response by SFC Donald Lemay made Nov 18 at 2016 7:38 PM

SFC Donald Lemay — Fri, 18 Nov 2016 19:38:26 -0500

Yes, very much so. My experiences during the years I served taught me many lessons. I cherish all, especially the bad because they keep me grateful and humble.

Response by LCpl Sam Southard made Nov 19 at 2016 1:43 AM

LCpl Sam Southard — Sat, 19 Nov 2016 01:43:44 -0500

What changed wasn't my opinion of war but my resolve to ensure that we are always prepared to defend ourselves and those who can't defend themselves from evil.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Nov 19 at 2016 9:56 AM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Sat, 19 Nov 2016 09:56:51 -0500

Carl Von Clausewitz used the broad strokes of war to make it more understandable.

Response by LCpl Sam Southard made Nov 20 at 2016 3:06 PM

LCpl Sam Southard — Sun, 20 Nov 2016 15:06:13 -0500

I was fortunate to be raised by a former Marine and small business owner in a small town in northern California. As such I was taught how to measure the metal of a man(and woman) by how they conducted themselves. Since my only experience with racial issues l assumed that the whole world was as color blind as l felt I was raised. It didn't take long to realise that not only did I still have a lot to learn about others,but so did just about everyone I served with. Fortunately I was raised and warned to expect this(though i. Didn't believe that when my folks warned me). many weren't able or willing to face or question their beliefs about race. Learning and living the reality young has served me well in life. Thank you mom ,dad, and my marine corps family for helping me grow into a better marine,man,husband,father, and son of God

Response by MAJ Alan Reiter made Nov 28 at 2016 8:00 PM

MAJ Alan Reiter — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 20:00:22 -0500

It made me much less likely to support this country going to war unless absolutely necessary. It also show me how much we as Americans have in common compared to the cultures of South West Asia particular Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. I also became much more grateful for my country and the blessings we have.