Do you think the military made you a better person?

SSG Leo Bell — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 16:28:39 -0400

I know for me the military made me better as a person and a better man. I don't know how I would of turned out as a adult or if I would of ended up in trouble with the law, or just a average person working a job everyday not knowing if I liked the job or not.

I can say the military did give me responsibilitie,and great direction in life, and great leadership skills. I can't say if I would of had them if I had not went in, I'm glad I joined the military family. I wouldn't have changed a thing if I had to do it all over again.

I learned allot of lessons from great NCO's and some not so good one's. It was a life changing lesson is all I can really say.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 15 at 2015 4:32 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 16:32:45 -0400

The military was a big experiment in making moral decisions. After a couple years my value system was established regardless of consequences to me.

Response by Sgt Spencer Sikder made Oct 15 at 2015 4:51 PM

Sgt Spencer Sikder — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 16:51:12 -0400

Most definitely. Interestingly some of life's lessons which could be learned in any career, seemed magnified because of the military mission focus.

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made Oct 15 at 2015 4:59 PM

SGT Jerrold Pesz — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 16:59:57 -0400

Hard to say since I have no idea what I would be like if I had never joined the military. It may have had less effect on me than on many because I was older when I entered the army and had had quite a bit of leadership experience before I joined. My mother (who objected to me being in the army) claimed that all that I learned was how to be an asshole.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Oct 15 at 2015 5:27 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 17:27:31 -0400

No. I was already dead sexy going in. (LOL!)

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 15 at 2015 5:29 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 17:29:23 -0400

Yes SSG Leo Bell I believe the military made me a better person.
My parents tried their best to raise me and instilled good sense of values, right and wrong and a respect for all people regardless of race, faith or ethnic background.
However it was in the military as a young enlisted man in November 1974 where I was thrust into the situation of living in a long steel barracks with concrete floor with people from every race, faith or ethnic background. It was there that my upbringing was tested and I found out that I had courage of my convictions which has helped me through much of my military career.
At times the courage of my convictions got me in trouble because I questioned what I thought were improper orders or instructions as respectfully as I could. Sometimes my candor was accepted in the spirit it was offered while other times my loyalty was questioned. In any event I was able to sleep well at night knowing that I had done my best.
Additionally the training and education I received while going through BCT, AIT, USMA at West Point, Infantry Mortar Platoon Officers Course (IMPOC), Infantry Officers Basic Course (IOBC), NBC training, Infantry Officers Advanced Course (IOAC), Operations Research Systems Analysis Military Applications Course 1 (ORSA MAC1), Combined Arms Services Support School (CAS3) and Command and General Staff College (CGSC) prepared me for each step of my military career and helped me in my follow-on career.
How did the military affect each of you? SPC Private RallyPoint Member, SP6 Clifford Ward, COL Mikel J. Burroughs, COL Jon Thompson, LTC Stephen C., CW5 Charlie Poulton, CW5 Private RallyPoint Member, SMSgt Minister Gerald A. Thomas, CMSgt Mark Schubert, GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad SGT Randal Groover, SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4", SPC Margaret Higgins, SrA Christopher Wright, SGT Private RallyPoint Member

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Oct 15 at 2015 5:32 PM

SGM Steve Wettstein — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 17:32:01 -0400

It might have given me better character, but I know for a fact that it beat me into the ground mentally and physically.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Oct 15 at 2015 5:32 PM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 17:32:59 -0400

Yea I like to think so..... but it was so long ago the effects of Marine Corps regimentation and discipline have worn off by now...

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Oct 15 at 2015 5:58 PM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 17:58:07 -0400

I can hear my DI "You %$#$birds came here as wet behind the ears Momma's boys and I am going to make you into lean & mean Marines.".. Looking back almost 62 years ago I have to say that SOB gave it his best shot...& maybe he did succeed

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2015 6:03 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 18:03:16 -0400

I joined at age 17. I left over 14 years later, with a college degree, job skills, leadership skills, etc.

You judge.

Response by SP5 Mark Kuzinski made Oct 15 at 2015 7:39 PM

SP5 Mark Kuzinski — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 19:39:29 -0400

I could write a book on how that Army made me a better person than I was. I'm in the process of writing my accounts and history while I was in the Army and I look forward to sharing it with my family when it's complete. Thank God I enlisted in the Army when I did.
This is a fantastic post - Thank you!
Mark S. Kuzinski

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Oct 15 at 2015 7:59 PM

CPT Ahmed Faried — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 19:59:40 -0400

Absolutely. One of the defining moments of my life.

Response by SSG Joe Ann Bess made Oct 15 at 2015 8:02 PM

SSG Joe Ann Bess — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 20:02:34 -0400

Absolutely I would probably not have been able to do the things I do today if not for that expense. So yes definitely.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Oct 15 at 2015 8:11 PM

LTC Bink Romanick — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 20:11:28 -0400

SSG Leo Bell Yes, the army changed me for the better, I became more mature, it gave me a sense of purpose, a sense of accomplishment.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2015 8:15 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 20:15:01 -0400

Great question, SSG Leo Bell! I think the Army made me the man I am today, and I think I'm a better man than I would be had I not joined the Army. I'd probably be a blue collar worker, maybe retiree by now. There's nothing wrong with that. The Army allowed and motivated me to pursue civilian education, which allowed and motivated me to strive to be all I could be - in the Army and out.

I don't know how I would have turned out without the Army experience I have, but when I look around today at young people the age I was when I joined up, I see a lot of "lost people" with no discipline, no direction, no plan, no goals. The Army taught me to be disciplined, to set goals, to make plans to achieve those goals, and on and on and on.

I am SO glad I decided to join the Army as a naive high school senior. It was one of the best two or three decisions I have made in my entire life.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2015 9:34 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 21:34:58 -0400

Yes I do. I am much more responsible with better goals and aspirations. I would probably still be cooking at Chilis or some other chain restaurant if i had not joined. So much good has come out of it and I do not regret my decision to join...regardless of how bad or stressful some days can be. i wanted to get out of a dead end job and make something of myself while at the same time paying off debt that I had incurred.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Oct 15 at 2015 10:04 PM

COL Charles Williams — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 22:04:23 -0400

No doubt....

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Oct 15 at 2015 10:34 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 22:34:09 -0400

Easy question..... Yes! I was a college dropout and was working in a bread factory when I joined. I grew up and became responsible real quick.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Oct 16 at 2015 1:11 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 01:11:05 -0400

Different than I would have been. Better? Maybe some ways. A little touched? Yep. I don't play that woulda, coulda, shoulda game. We Mils tend to think about the negatives we could have become. Some talk about the negatives they changed from. One thing for sure, we have a big place in our heart for our brothers and sisters in arms. And that is perhaps is a great place to be.

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Oct 16 at 2015 9:06 AM

SSG Audwin Scott — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 09:06:17 -0400

I want necessarily use the word better person, but I can say, the Army has made me whom I am today. That's the good, bad, happy and sad of me having the character that I have today.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2015 9:09 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 09:09:56 -0400

I don't think it did....I KNOW it did.
A short (very brief) summary of my teen youth - I was a bad teenager ...BAD. I went to jail for the first time at 17, old enough in the state of Illinois to be considered an adult - so I was stuck in county vs juvenile. That didn't wake me up, it just made me an even angrier child (I wasn't a man - as I was immature and lacked responsibility). I went to jail again at the age of 19, due to a warrant being out for my arrest. I was arrested and charged with a felony (later dropped to a misdemeanor). I quickly began to wake up from the realization that if I wanted to do anything productive in my life - I needed to grow up, do something beneficial with my life. A few short months after turning 20, I went to the Navy recruiter and asked how quick I could remove myself from the city I grew up in - within a few days, I took the ASVAB, few days later I went to MEPS and less then 30 days from the time I entered the recruiters office for the first time, I was at basic training in Great Lakes.

I was smart enough to realize I had something to offer, I knew I had potential to lead and be responsible - but I was surrounded by a less than stellar life growing up and I was sucked into it at an early age. I persevered and removed myself from the situation and the military taught me invaluable lessons on responsibility, leadership and humility. I'll forever be indebt to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army for the opportunities they have provided me - as I'm sure none of my teachers thought a punk teenager would grow up to serve honorably and lead men and women in Afghanistan, Iraq and countless other countries.

Response by Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay made Oct 16 at 2015 9:22 AM

Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 09:22:17 -0400

It has made me a credible speaker in the antiwar movement. I believe the reason why we don't have veterans in Veterans For Peace, Iraq Veterans Against the War, Viet Nam Veterans Against the War and even Pax Christi USA is because the veterans are too far damaged, too far brainwashed to believe in a military solution. We have 22 veteran suicides daily. It use to be only 18. If it is exaggerated would 11 be O.K.? When would be too much? Have we really tried a nonviolent solution. We got rid of state-sanctioned slavery. Can we be rid of state-sanctioned war for political or material gain at the expense of the poor and misinformed?

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Oct 16 at 2015 9:43 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 09:43:59 -0400

While it definitely gave me great opportunities for education, training, travel and overall worldliness, I'd have to say that the unfortunate flip side is that there is also a great deal that has led to bitterness and cynicism. I have met some wonderful, intelligent well traveled and educated people in the Army, but for every one of those, I suspect have met about 30-40 of just the absolute worst people as well. Rude, uneducated, bigoted, just absolute low class. Unfortunately, the rank structure allows a lot of just the worst people to camouflage poor social skills as being "old school".

Coming to the end of things, I'd have to say that the Army is an organization that preaches all kinds of wonderful things, but practices very few and is frequently hypocritical. Perhaps that's just a consequence of it's size. I don't know, and don't seek to excuse it. I certainly don't regret my time, but I'm likely to recommend another branch to my son if he's interested in service...

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2015 10:58 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 10:58:28 -0400

I know that it taught me how to stay alive and out of jail. So yes it has made me a better person.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Oct 16 at 2015 12:18 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 12:18:56 -0400

Good question. I can't go back and live my life over and see if it was better. I'd like to think I look at life differently, have a better perspective of life. I've been sent to countries where no clean water was found to drink, people wanting for the things of life I had given to me. From the deployments I've been on I've learned just now lucky I was to be born in the United States and was able to serve my country to give back just a little bit of what She as give me. I don't know if I'm better, but my over all outlook on live is so much better for it.

Response by SPC Luis Mendez made Oct 16 at 2015 12:23 PM

SPC Luis Mendez — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 12:23:37 -0400

Nope, NOT the Military itself at all, but the friends and some of the guys I met help me better myself. One pleasant thing that happened to me in BCT was meeting again with some childhood and HS friends that I haven't seen in 3 to 8 years. Seen how they changed and matured before the Military, was motivational. The Military didn't do that for them. Millions times Millions of men are/were better as they grew in age, education and experiences without the Military.

Being Obedient and Following the Advice and Counsel of good Parents, aunts, uncles and other relatives, was what made them and me better. The Military however helped with other areas/aspects of life, like getting a job, but DID NOT made me better.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2015 12:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 12:59:44 -0400

yes and no. I developed skills and characteristics that i never thought i could gain, however the down fall is the combat experience and the aftermath.

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made Oct 16 at 2015 2:10 PM

MSgt Wayne Morris — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 14:10:19 -0400

I know it did for me and I never regret 1 day of 23 years. I learned what being part of a team was really about and met some great people I will never forget and a few dirt bags too. I got to see parts of the world some people only dream about and learned the world can be a scary place but full of great people and cultures too. Most importantly it taught me to be a leader and how important democracy and protecting it is.

Response by MSgt Danny Hope made Oct 16 at 2015 2:13 PM

MSgt Danny Hope — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 14:13:16 -0400

Absolutely! It took a directionless kid and made him curious about everything. Gave him a chance to travel the world, and the skills and attitude to accomplish anything!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2015 3:04 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 15:04:37 -0400

From my drill sergeants way back in 1985 to the sergeants major I work with today, NCOs have taught and continue to teach me discipline, courage and responsibility.

Back in the day junior officers taught me ambition, and to this day continue to teach me dedication and creativity.

Senior officers have and continue to teach me logic, ethics and priorities.

All of the above have and continue to teach me leadership.

I proudly say these folks continue to teach because as leaders, we should never stop trying to learn. In my last company command as a senior captain one my best mentors was a young E-5 whose leadership style was such that even the E-7s looked up to her in competence despite her rank and relative youth, as did I. That young sergeant, by the way, is currently working on her Ph.D.

So to answer the original question, yes, the military has made me a much better person, and after 31 years it continues to do so.

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Oct 16 at 2015 4:45 PM

SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 16:45:58 -0400

It made me a better person, it instilled into me some discipline that I was lacking a bit at the time of my enlistment. It fostered a yearning to learn and improve myself in the mind, body, and spirit. I try to live myself to the 7 Army Values (Loyalty,Duty, Respect, Self-less Service, Honor,. Integrity, and Personal Courage). I am also a tougher individual than what I was, I control my anger but I am no pushover anymore either.

It has opened up job opportunities that I wouldn't normally have gotten. Even though some of those opportunities were not the greatest, they kept me in a home, clothed, and with a belly full of food. I owe the Army a lot, because now I am in College. I don't agree with some of the restrictions with the G.I. Bill, but I am happy just to have the chance to go to college. Proud to be a Veteran!!!

Response by 1SG Glenn Moore made Oct 16 at 2015 5:42 PM

1SG Glenn Moore — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 17:42:16 -0400

Absolutely!! I learned valuable life skills and gained management and leadership experience I continue to use today.

Response by MSG Marcel Guaring made Oct 16 at 2015 6:26 PM

MSG Marcel Guaring — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 18:26:42 -0400

Absolutely! From having no direction and purpose to a stepping stone towards a bright and promising future.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Oct 16 at 2015 9:50 PM

SGT Rick Ash — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 21:50:19 -0400

My military service definitely made me a better person. It also trained me to get a great job when I got out and that led to a 31 year career in High Tech Sales and incredible incomes every year. The leadership training I got turned out to be a key to my long term success. I became a Regional Director for 14 states in the SE U.S. There are others but the most critical skill I gained from my 6 years of service was the ability to understand who would have my 6 on a day-to-day basis. I would have ended up up like many of the guys I graduated with, in a factory, punching the same button and pulling the same lever on a huge machine for 37 years! And last, would I ever have had the chance to live in a mud hut with a thatch roof in S. Korea for a year? Or live in Frankfurt, Germany for almost 3 years and work as a Forensic Chemist in a CID Crime Lab? I am so thankful for every tough D.I., NCO and Officer I ever served under. It is indeed a "Band of Brothers (and Sisters)" Rally Point is bringing a lot of that back into focus.
Thanks,
Rick

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 1:38 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 01:38:31 -0400

In high school, I believed that I was squared away. What the Marine Corps did was enhance my organization and leadership skills, while instilling needed discipline. With the G.I. Bill, I was able to obtain my degree and land my dream job. I would like to think that the military made me a better person.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 3:05 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 03:05:50 -0400

I know it made me a better person. It gave me direction and some of the best friends I have ever had. I only thing I would change is to have joined sooner.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Oct 17 at 2015 9:00 AM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 09:00:24 -0400

I think it did... it taught me how to be a better man and a productive member of society

Response by 1LT William Clardy made Oct 17 at 2015 10:33 AM

1LT William Clardy — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 10:33:34 -0400

I don't think that the Army made me a better person, but it did give me ample opportunity and assistance to *be* a better person.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2015 11:01 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 11:01:54 -0400

An unqualified yes.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Oct 17 at 2015 12:03 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:03:33 -0400

Absolutely. I am a leader; since I was a Squad Leader in the Army.
My professionalism affects every aspect of my career in photography.

Response by PO1 Michael Fullmer made Oct 17 at 2015 6:51 PM

PO1 Michael Fullmer — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 18:51:05 -0400

I know it did. My military service taught me more than additional responsibility, it taught me the REAL meaning of team work. My training and mentorship I received were some of the best times of my life..

Response by SGT David Karlstromer made Oct 17 at 2015 11:04 PM

SGT David Karlstromer — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 23:04:25 -0400

There's no doubt that the military instilled great values that would have otherwise eluded me. I can truly say that even with the injuries, I would do it all over again. I miss it sometimes, but am grateful of the time I spent in, and get to spend with my wife and kids now that I am out.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2015 8:14 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 08:14:58 -0400

yes..by far! starting with JROTC!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2015 9:35 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 09:35:09 -0400

Yes.

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Oct 18 at 2015 10:03 AM

SSG Keven Lahde — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 10:03:18 -0400

SSG Leo Bell SSG I know it did for me. Being from Minnesota originally, there wasn't much there but the mining and that is something I didn't want to do for the rest of my life. So yes and I love every minute of it!!!

Response by MSG Roger Mannon made Oct 18 at 2015 10:32 AM

MSG Roger Mannon — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 10:32:41 -0400

Absolutely. My Army experience taught me about responsibility, integrity, team work and self reliance. It taught me to value those I led, to treat them with respect but to drive them to excellence, to lead by example. I am a better man, a better leader because of my time in service to my country.

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Oct 18 at 2015 6:37 PM

SSG Ed Mikus — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 18:37:09 -0400

of course

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2015 6:49 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 18:49:25 -0400

I read a few of the responses, and most of them say the same thing, basically how the military definitely made them a better person. However, not many of them were around for the draft, so in general it can be said that most comments were made by volunteering citizens. That being said, the military did not make you who you are today, YOU, each and everyone of YOU who rose your right hand made yourselves into the better people that you are today. While their were leaders and subordinates to help guide you in your path, the military cannot take credit for making anyone a good person because then they would have to take credit for making some bad people as well. A lot of people question what their success would have been had they not joined the military. My response to that is if you were successful in the military, chances are you probably would have been successful outside the military. Don't attribute your success to the Military, attribute it to yourself, and those who supported you during and currently in your service, and most importantly continue to pass on the greatness.

Response by SSG Gene Carroll SR. made Oct 18 at 2015 7:08 PM

SSG Gene Carroll SR. — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 19:08:52 -0400

I agree, I would probably be dead or in prison if I hadn't enlisted in the Army. I had no where to turn to at that time except to try and make something of my life. Thank God it worked.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2015 11:14 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 11:14:21 -0400

In most ways yes.....but multiple deployments did suck a lot of the humanity and compassion out of me. Good News is they are slowly being replenished....bad news is the memories will always persist.

Response by SrA Joe Mourgos made Oct 19 at 2015 12:07 PM

SrA Joe Mourgos — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 12:07:36 -0400

Let's see....Harassed by co-workers every day, Reporting Official lies to the CO to cover his ass while throwing me under the bus at one point. Given a nickname based on a cartoon character loser and sticking with it despite the stress and depression it causes me...(all for the sake of "Morale" -while obviously not caring about MINE) -- I'm signed off on things I have no clue about...The fact that I made it out of that hell hole is a testament to my strength and will. I suppose, in that regard, I am a better person. It's not easy being the most intelligent and disciplined person in a group, surrounded by losers but you play the cards you're dealt and I suppose I am better for that.

Response by SFC Istvan Nagy made Oct 19 at 2015 12:28 PM

SFC Istvan Nagy — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 12:28:11 -0400

Yes, it most definitely did. I grew up in a former communist country (Hungary) and I was 20 years old when I was able to escape that terrible mentality, lifestyle and controlled environment. I got the US a few months later and started learning English and worked on my uncle's farm. Three years later I passed the ASVAB test and I joined the Army as an Engineer (12C/12B). That turned out to be the best decision I ever made. The US Army gave me a sense of belonging, direction, values and responsibilities. Plus gave me knowledge and leadership skills, which guided me through all of my assignments and higher level positions. And I'll always use the traits that I've acquired during my military tenure. Essayons!

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2015 3:14 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 15:14:59 -0400

Despite my negative experiences in the Army it did make me a better person. I learned alot about myself and now know that when I set my mind to something, nothing and I mean nothing will stop me from achieving it. I gained discipline, determination, drive and strength from my time in the Army. When all else fails I can look at these traits and know that I will be okay.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 19 at 2015 3:39 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 15:39:37 -0400

I don't know if this applies. I noticed many people go to the military for something or they are leaving something in their civilian life.

Response by MSG Tim Gray made Oct 19 at 2015 4:41 PM

MSG Tim Gray — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 16:41:09 -0400

I learned sooooo much from the military! I learned selflessness, courage, a never quit attitude. But the most important thing I learned was the value of being a team player and the value of mission accomplishment

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Oct 19 at 2015 7:46 PM

PV2 Glen Lewis — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 19:46:33 -0400

I may have answered this before but just in the event I haven't; there's no doubt in the world that the few months I was in the Army made me a better person. I can tell you almost certainly that if it wasn't for the time spent in the Army I would be either dead or in prison which is where almost everyone of the crowd I was a part of before I enlisted is today. I think it was the turning point in my life. I learned to value other people and most of all I learned to value myself.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2015 3:46 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 03:46:49 -0400

The military allowed me to show myself my true capabilities. It allowed me to influence more change in my life due to the credibility it provided. I don't know if it made me better, but it definitely forced me to try harder.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2015 4:46 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 04:46:39 -0400

There have been so many stages, phases and efforts in my life that have turned out to be crackpot dead ends that I don't even want to go where you are talking about. Now something that is just between myself and the invisible such as the yin and yang of the graded stakes past performances. That can truly make me into a better person. In fact I learned how to construct all three of my autobiography diagrams from the racing form. As far as the mother of all crackpot dead ends is concerned, I just thank Jehovah God I never found the kingdom hall while I was still in the army.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Oct 20 at 2015 8:51 AM

PO1 John Miller — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 08:51:47 -0400

I can without a doubt say that if it weren't for the Navy I'd probably still be living in BF Lapeer, Michigan working a dead end job probably in some type of factory.

Response by 1SG Eric Rice made Oct 20 at 2015 9:41 AM

1SG Eric Rice — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 09:41:09 -0400

SSG Leo Bell,
Excellent discussion. I enlisted in the Army at the age of 17 and have been in the Army for my entire adult life. Although I believe that I would have been just fine and successful in another profession my eyes would not have been opened like they are now.

We are the most diverse and talented workforce on the planet in my opinion. This leads to experiencing not only other service members cultures but also the culture of the countries and adverse duty locations we get sent. From a cultural standpoint alone it has made me a better person.

Additionally, those of us who have elected to serve are without a doubt a cut above the rest compared to those who choose to sit by and watch tragic events unfold. Regardless of where we come from we stand for something and that in my opinion has made all of us a better person.

Response by SFC Brian Ewing made Oct 20 at 2015 10:32 AM

SFC Brian Ewing — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 10:32:36 -0400

This is an excellent question and a great topic to discuss, for me personally I cannot see how the military wouldn't be able to make one into a greater person. In the Army we have Army Values, Warrior Ethos and our Soldier's Creed and if one was to simply adhere to those sets of morally oriented statutes regardless of how everyone acts or treats one another then there is no way you won't become a better person.

Response by SSG Leo Bell made Oct 20 at 2015 10:52 AM

SSG Leo Bell — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 10:52:15 -0400

Thank you for all the responses.
This was a question to see what everyone thought of there lives and the outcome of there lives with and without the military.

We have all served honorably and some of us were drafted and most volunteered. We came from all different walks of life and many different cultures. We have learned allot, had responsibility. We have been leaders and soldiers. We've met people all over the world and for the most part enjoyed our time in the military. This is the greatest country to be in and apart of. Hoohaa to everyone

SSG Bell

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Oct 20 at 2015 2:00 PM

SGT Scott Bell — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 14:00:35 -0400

Yes i do

Response by CWO3 Warren Gaudreau made Oct 20 at 2015 3:05 PM

CWO3 Warren Gaudreau — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 15:05:11 -0400

No doubt.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2015 3:12 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 15:12:40 -0400

Yes. It gave me a broader set of tools and skills that can be applied in the "real" world, and for that I will always be thankful. I always tell guys, no matter how they are exiting the military, to take what they've been taught and apply it. I know that might sound moto/ridiculous, but why throw away something that you already gained. This correlates with the whole staying in the same occupational field once you get out, it could mean just easier transition and job placement...

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2015 4:52 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 16:52:45 -0400

easily, If It weren't for the military, I would probably be in jail. I was going down a rough path, not giving a sh*t about anything, and I decided to enlist. I have done a complete 180. In many ways, the military saved my life.

Response by TSgt Anthony Ellis made Oct 20 at 2015 7:17 PM

TSgt Anthony Ellis — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 19:17:11 -0400

It's no question that the military made me a better person than I was before I joined. I'm now more humble and more understanding of other people issues.

Response by SGT Stanley Bass made Oct 21 at 2015 11:43 AM

SGT Stanley Bass — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 11:43:43 -0400

I know what I was like before I joined out of High School, and I know what i was like when I got out of the Army on a medical 15 years and 10 months later. I am a firm believer in everything happens for a reason and God has a plan for me. I know I would not have went through things if god wasn't preparing me for my next challenge. I often think what would have happened to me if I would not have joined, would I even have been able to support myself and my family. A lot of things looking back that were not right, and glad I am not on that path anymore. I had no intention of joining when I joined. But I know I would not be the person i am today if i would not have joined. I went through the ups and downs while in, as everybody does. But I know the military prepared me for who i am today. I also know that I would not have the support with my medical problems if I stil had those medical problems and had not served.

Response by SGT Charles Cameron made Oct 22 at 2015 1:01 PM

SGT Charles Cameron — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 13:01:53 -0400

OH, MOST DEFENITLY YES!
As a rebellious young man, I was headed towards a stay in prison. The Army gave me another chance to grow up. Even in my 1st enlistment, I was a jerk. The military's patience...and corrections were such, that I re-upped 2 more times. I know now, that if it wasn't for the military and their guidance, I wouldn't be where I am now.
The military taught me responsibilities, leadership, assertiveness (in the right directions), attainment of rank, and a strong patriotic outlook towards my country and fellow vets.
I believe that all young people (if they can), should experience a time serving their country.

Response by SPC Charles Slininger made Oct 22 at 2015 1:03 PM

SPC Charles Slininger — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 13:03:59 -0400

The military certainly screwed my head on straight when I was a young dumb kid who couldn't keep his mouth shut. It taught me discipline that I would not have gained elsewhere as I would have most likely fell flat on my face when entering the "real world" after college. It gave me the opportunity to see things from a more complete POV as I worked with people not only across the country but across the globe.

I was shown by great leaders on what to do and what not to do by not so great ones. The military also gave me the chance to be a leader myself and make my own wins as well as mistakes in that role. I'm glad I got to learn that the hard way as well as getting out of my comfort zone.

There were certainly things that the military did that made me not so great as well, however that comes as byproducts of everything you do and everywhere you work. Of course these are things that are correctable and treatable but I believe that my experience has helped me identify it more and help others along the way.

Always Forward.

Response by SGT S.D. Setzer made Oct 22 at 2015 3:11 PM

SGT S.D. Setzer — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 15:11:29 -0400

Not a doubt in my mind!!!! I see everyday that my time in the military enriched me, provided me with a superior work ethic, leadership abilities ....I could go on and on. That being said, my time in the military has also gave me a great INTOLERANCE for liars, cheats, laziness, phonies and moral COWARDS.

I guess advancing age adds to the mix but I find myself vacillating between disgust, anger, and loathing of most people. I am sent into a tail spin with my employers, supervisors, etc. who have no discernible leadership or managerial abilities. Even when they "accidently" discover that something is wrong or will not work they lack the intestinal fortitude to say ANYTHING.

The military was not exactly a paragon of democracy when it came to leadership but they did not need to be. More times than not, edicts from "echelons above reality" had been filtered and modified to workable true tasks or solutions and your leadership had PROVED themselves as knowledgeable and trustworthy before they came to you with insane tasks so that you did not question you executed.

Response by A1C Brian Bonner made Oct 22 at 2015 5:45 PM

A1C Brian Bonner — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 17:45:38 -0400

I went t56o military school for 2 years in 7th and 8th grade, which taught me military discipline, Honor and responsibility. The USAF only taught me electronics, boot camp was nowhere near as hard as my military schools

Response by SGT Darreck Lisle made Oct 23 at 2015 8:40 AM

SGT Darreck Lisle — Fri, 23 Oct 2015 08:40:44 -0400

No question about it. HELL YES!

Both the Good and the Bad experiences shaped the person that I am today.

From sitting on my ruck in the Schwarzwald in the rain freezing my ass off for hours or in the Desert wearing MOP4 invading IRAQ with my Plt from the back of a 5 ton truck. To being on the boarder the day it opened up and seeing so many East Germans scared out of their mind looking at me in BDUs, LBE, and with my beret and M16. Bursting into song when I gave them a smile as they entered Western Germany.

I have seen the best the World has to offer and damn near the worst.

Many of my friends over the years went to college, married and divorced ending up as self loathing alcoholics saying there victims of everything from the Government, the job market, and obviously Racism.

Thanks to the US Army. I am not now nor will I ever be a victim. I have failed oh so many times. It sucks when you have loved ones counting on you. But I got up, dusted off, and drove on. Life is to short.

As long as my family is safe, well fed, and my Boys understand that the MidWest is not the center of the World? Mission Complete!

All because of the US Army Airborne Corps

Thank you for letting me serve the people of the USA.