Do you worry about the next generation?

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 12:55:42 -0500

I remember a couple of days before my retirement when my CMSgt and I were talking. He was also planning on retiring in a couple of years and had been thinking about the future of America’s military. He was saying how they were going to miss my leadership and dedication to the service. He was worried about the next generation and what would become of our unit, or the military as a whole “without folks like me”. He said he just wasn’t sure about the kids that were coming up the ranks, or the new young enlisted Soldiers. I told him I wasn't too worried about it and thought we would be in good hands in the end.

The conversation got me thinking about the future and where would we be as a military force. I wondered how other generations felt about the younger troops. I thought about my uncle who was a Marine on Guadalcanal. No one will argue when I say WWII vets are the greatest generation. I also thought about my father who served during and after Korea. I’m sure they must have had the same worries; as did the generations before them. It couldn’t just be a problem of today.

But it always seems like we pull through as a nation. We always seem to find those that go above and beyond. We find those who have the right upbringing to know right from wrong. We find those who know how important it is, and what an honor it is, to serve our country. It is these young men and women who we put our trust in. We have to put our trust in them because…what would be the alternative?

During our latest endeavors in Iraq and Afghanistan, we have seen many who have gone above and beyond what one would expect. They have made America proud and are good role models for our youth to follow. They have served with honor and dignity. They’ve shown respect for their brothers and sisters - past and present. I believe they have given us the faith we need to know we are in good hands for they know how important it is to defend our constitution. They know the importance of defending those who cannot defend themselves and protecting our freedoms.

I thought it was pretty telling when I saw those young National Guard troops looking franticly in Ferguson, MO for the remnants of the American flag that was burnt by the protesters. I believe their parents have taught them well. They have absorbed what we have tried to show and teach them. Now it is their turn to teach and mentor the next generation. It is their job now to take care of America and make sure it is handed off to the next new capable hands. Do you think our standards will be upheld?

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made Mar 4 at 2015 1:56 PM

SrA Matthew Knight — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 13:56:19 -0500

As long as things stay pretty much as they are now we should be fine. My only concern is the fact that so many people get so easily offended by stupid crap. As long as we can avoid bringing the majority of them in, or at least correct it when we find it we should be fine.

Response by GySgt Joe Strong made Mar 4 at 2015 2:04 PM

GySgt Joe Strong — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:04:59 -0500

As long as the 1% continue to show up for duty , the Military will be fine.

I'm worrying a little bit about the Country though, but I'm not sure that that, isn't just the normal result of the circle of life.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 2:15 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:15:44 -0500

I believe it depends on what the circumstance was of the enlistee. I joined the military because I loved my Country and wanted to protect it. Some do it for the education... and some are forced into it by mommy and daddy. This younger generation, at the moment, seems like a generation of undisciplined children. I might be wrong.

I hope they understand what "defending our constitution" really entails. There have been horror stories, either true or false, about attacking civilians because they don't agree with the current government and that these younger troops have been asked if they can do so. I hear those that answered no (defending Constitution regardless if they knew it or not) were relieved of their duties.

We will always have "rotten eggs" in the military regardless of what generation is serving at the moment. But to be honest, and I really hate saying this, I don't have the same faith as I did 6 to 10 years ago.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 2:24 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:24:07 -0500

Honestly this is beautifully written. It's motivating to hear optimism for myself and my generation for once.

Response by MSgt Joanna Clute made Mar 4 at 2015 2:26 PM

MSgt Joanna Clute — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:26:03 -0500

The new "kids" we've had coming up in my career field are fantastic. They are more educated than a lot of is were, and they are highly motivated to go out and get the job done. I am not worried about them at all. The military should be worried about retaining them though. The "more with less" is starting to get ridiculous.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 2:37 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:37:17 -0500

In the past couple of years I have been honored to be invited to the class mentor and graduation speaker for a number of Professional Military Education courses, and in doing so I get to listen to the young Airmen that will be leading the Air Force after I am gone in November.

They are just as motivated, just as talented, and in many ways more equipped with the knowledge they require than I ever was at the same stage in my career. Sure there are knuckleheads in every generation and they tend to get more press and focus, but they do so because they are not the norm.

No, I have no concerns about the young men and women that will lead my Air Force into the future, but I have serious ones about the people making policies they will have to execute and enforce.

Response by COL Ted Mc made Mar 4 at 2015 2:40 PM

COL Ted Mc — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:40:33 -0500

The quotation is

" The counts of the indictment are luxury, bad manners, contempt for authority, disrespect to elders, and a love for chatter in place of exercise. …

Children began to be the tyrants, not the slaves, of their households. They no longer rose from their seats when an elder entered the room; they contradicted their parents, chattered before company, gobbled up the dainties at table, and committed various offences against Hellenic tastes, such as crossing their legs. They tyrannised over the paidagogoi and schoolmasters."

Guess the year and author.

Having reached the age where "Let's WALK down the hill and ..." actually becomes part of the operating instructions, I strongly suspect that the military will survive. Hell, it survived me and the cohorts who joined in the 60s didn't it?

On the other hand, I echo GySgt Joe Strong's concern. The country isn't going to be "ruined" by selfish "youths" (they don't have the clout to do it) but just might be "ruined" by selfish "seniors" (they DO have the clout to do it).

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 2:56 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:56:23 -0500

We have to hope that when it's their turn they will do us all proud. Unfortunately in seeing some young Soldiers I fear that it may only be a hope

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 4 at 2015 3:06 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 15:06:58 -0500

I don't worry about the next generation. They are on active duty now and seem to be doing a damn fine job.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Mar 4 at 2015 3:09 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 15:09:26 -0500

Your question reminded me of a time in ANCOC...Senior Leaders...when all of us SFC were waiting for class to begin. One of the other student, Senior NCOs, stated that the kids today to not have discipline, a sense of duty or any concern for our Nation and its people. There was a resounding agreement that, YES, the kids today are lazy and what is going to happen to our poor Army and Nation? That was before Sept 11, 2001 and we seemed to be okay so far.
As I was listening, I remembered basically the same statement being recorded by Socrates about the generation following him 3000 years ago, and realized that an ANCOC 20 years ago was saying the same thing about us. In truth, Socrates was right, those long retired SFCs, your old CMSgt and everyone who wants to comment about the 'kids' today are right, the kids today are lazy, lack discipline and motivation...just like we, and our generation, did before we grew into adults. The nice thing is that in a few years the lazy, undisciplined and unmotivated kids will be talking about how bad the next group is and they will be just as correct.

Response by SGT William Howell made Mar 4 at 2015 3:39 PM

SGT William Howell — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 15:39:25 -0500

I'll be honest. I do worry. Not because of the soldier themselves, but because of down sizing. We are loosing good troops, NCOs and officers who are fed up with being treated as second class citizens. Our troops are living in poverty because the President is more worried about allowing illegal aliens staying on our country than finding funds for our troops. I am worried that before it is over we are left with those that have no other choice but to stay in.

I mean no disrespect to those serving. I understand it is a calling not a job, but at some time you have to feed your family.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Mar 4 at 2015 4:31 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 16:31:00 -0500

Sure I do. Just like my Vietnam veterans who raised me from a day one, snot-gobbling, no TIS/TIG PVT worried about me. Just like their Korean War & WWII veterans worried about them.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Mar 4 at 2015 4:39 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 16:39:17 -0500

I believe every generation has a distinct identity and they have their own set of strengths....I also believe those willing to serve in a branch of our military are the best our nation has to offer! I am confident the training and lessons learned we pass along will make them better prepared to confront whatever lies in front of them.

Response by SFC Michael Jackson, MBA made Mar 4 at 2015 5:22 PM

SFC Michael Jackson, MBA — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 17:22:30 -0500

I'm not much concerned about the next generation. They'll persevere and stand strong. It's military tradition that the seasoned veterans' believe things were harder and the fresh times think there's smarter.
The reality is that the next ones' up are just faced with a different set of challenges and resources/processes have evolved. For example, yesterday's service members recall when had to use paper maps.
However, they face having to week or two long courses on how to use the technologies that now contain the maps. The training, in many cases, is longer but the efficiency and precision on the battlefield is improved
On RP, there's at least three generations of armed forces participating. Most of us figured out how to keep and maintain standards, and the next gen. will too

Response by SGM Lonnie Durand made Mar 4 at 2015 6:01 PM

SGM Lonnie Durand — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 18:01:12 -0500

No I don't because as Curtis says they always respond. I never felt like when I left the Army it would be worse off, I admired those young Soldiers who always rose to the occasion.

Response by PO1 Dustin Adams made Mar 4 at 2015 6:06 PM

PO1 Dustin Adams — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 18:06:36 -0500

I don't fear for lack of leadership for the next generation. If we did our jobs and mentored our juniors there will be good people to step-up to take our place to lead into the future.

My fear is the residuals of force shaping policies set by elected/appointed officials. As post-war budgets are shrunk, future readiness is sacrificed. The mid to late 90's are a recent example. After Desert Shield/Storm innovation for the future fighting force was gutted, compare what the military looked like (especially at the individual infantry Marine/soldier and Corpsman/medic level) going into OEF/OIF compared to now. My fear is money will continue to flow into the big projects like the F-35 program or LCS (ships) program and the warfighters will be left to fight future engagements with todays technology.

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Mar 4 at 2015 8:54 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 20:54:20 -0500

No more than the generation before mine and as much as I worried about the generation after me.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Mar 4 at 2015 10:01 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 22:01:31 -0500

I think this is a question every retiring generation asks itself. We wonder if the new generation will stack up, take the bull by the horns and drive on. I think if we look over the past couple hundred years or so we'll get our answers. I believe we get the cream of the crop in the military. Today with the all volunteer, we get those who really want to be here. Sure there will always be that bad apple or so who what to feed off the rest, but in the long run those who really care will come to the top and take over.
Sure we look back and think how we did it, but we also have to understand things change, but I don't believe the basics have changed: Duty, Honor, Country.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Mar 4 at 2015 10:07 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 22:07:17 -0500

They probably asked the 'last generation' the same question. It is how this machine runs. We train, learn, grow and lead and then they return the favor as we step out of the way. Sometimes it is hard to let go and give our responsibility to another, but this is how it is set up. Don't worry, they were trained by us, they will develop there own skills and abilities and pass that knowledge along the the next..

Response by SSG Mike Angelo made Mar 4 at 2015 10:52 PM

SSG Mike Angelo — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 22:52:24 -0500

The military machine takes care of business. I have no worries in that level of understanding. However, as a veteran and military retiree, my concern is when SMs leave the service.

Our nation is a land of many laws, yet there are laws that do not contain or clarify the lawful language for veterans. Most of these laws were written like a traffic light or moving violation. Such laws of one size fits all may be effective, such as in the privilege of driving a motor vehicle on a public right of way. Laws of and for the masses in American society.

The enforcement of these laws are without regard to veteran status and specific needs. These laws are built on the partnerships created between our own US Government and private business sector; the for-profit organizations.

Consequently, our nations' veterans are suffering from an increasing rate of veteran suicide, prison and homelessness. Why? ...

If we veterans do not use our VA benefits, the future veterans will have none. It is a use it or lose it deal.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 4 at 2015 11:29 PM

COL Charles Williams — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 23:29:21 -0500

No, I do not.

We all joke about it, and in my current job, I say this about daily.

After 9-11, we all made comments that we were screwed, and that the Soldiers of the day were not hard like we were back in the day... The reality was/is, that these Soldiers were different, but they were also extremely committed and capable, and have more than demonstrated their resolve. They are an amazing breed.

We are in different, but good hands.

I believe it is common for us old timers to lament about how high speed we were back in the day, and how weak the next generation is. The are different perhaps, but less committed? No way.

Would all of us have joined the military "back in the day" if we were joining an Army at war? I would like to believe I would have, but since I joined in 1980, I can't say that for sure.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Mar 4 at 2015 11:32 PM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 23:32:06 -0500

Probably no more than my Dad's generation worried about mine, or that I worried about my daughter's, or that she worries about . . .

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 12:03 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 00:03:46 -0500

I have no doubt we will have a perpetuation of military minded young people who have been taught well and have the best interests of the nation in mind and will serve the nation and constitution with selfless service.

My fear is the degradation of the constitution, the political correctness of our nation, and the continued corruption of our political parties and process that is eroding our national will.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 3:20 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 03:20:39 -0500

You did an outstanding job answering your own question. Very well thought out and written, thanks for sharing!

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 3:36 AM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 03:36:21 -0500

You know... no. I don't. Worry about the new guys that is. Maybe it's because I'm still the "current" generation, though my mates and I are slowly EASing or proving they're career chaps... but I remember plenty of jawing at various bars, with old timers talking about The Old Breed, and the Old Corps and how things were different when they were in, and honestly I think that's all a bunch of crap. Rose colored glasses of the worst kind, looking down on the new guys, even I do it now and then when I look back on my time in service through the bottom of my glass of scotch, and that was just a few years ago! I think a quote from Chesty goes well here ""Old breed? New breed? There's not a damn bit of difference so long as it's the Marine breed." but I think you can extend that to the whole of the military to some extent, there's always going to be the motivated few who have the intestinal fortitude and sense of duty to raise their right hands. Beauty of a volunteer force really. You cut out a fair amount of the chaff automatically. I'm with you MSgt Private RallyPoint Member, I think we're in good hands, and those who come after us will be a credit to our services and our colors.

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Mar 5 at 2015 6:18 AM

SCPO David Lockwood — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 06:18:42 -0500

If the next generation gets rid of this sense entitlement they "THINK" they have then I believe they will be ok. But if they don't this country will be in serious trouble. We already have a group in Washington DC who deeply has this sense of entitlement and look what they are doing to the Armed Forces and the Veterans benefits. I hope they wake up and smell the coffee and replace all of them!

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Mar 5 at 2015 7:33 AM

SGT Jim Z. — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 07:33:54 -0500

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member you do hit on some key elements but each generation bears their own leaders through mentorship and education from the previous generation. The younger generation future leaders are the ones that look to the older generation and ask for help to better themselves and the forces for the future. This occurs on both the enlisted and officers side, however you do not have to worry as there is some young airman who is doing exactly what I said seeking the knowledge to help shape his/her generation.

Response by SSG Christopher Freeman made Mar 5 at 2015 9:34 AM

SSG Christopher Freeman — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 09:34:31 -0500

I don't worry at all. Each generation has faced their own challenges and we have handled those in stride. We are a different force by leaps and bounds from our predecessors of WW2, but we are a much more technically sound military. Just think of all the knowledge you possess and how much time most of us get before going into combat. We also face different enemies than before. It's no longer open warfare. It requires us to think more about who we are shooting because the line between combatant and non has become difficult at times.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Mar 5 at 2015 6:28 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 18:28:39 -0500

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member.Now that I am retired and as I live my post Soldier life, I am concerned with Duty Honor Country being protected with the right number for the next generation. I believe its too small for future conflicts. Can we maintain focus with a smaller force with sequestration cuts still looming? My advice to the FORCE, is stay disciplined and trained up. Never forget the basic of warfare. "Shoot move, and communicate. "Retired, but still serving."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2015 1:49 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 01:49:42 -0500

Yes

Response by SSG Paul Lanciault made Mar 6 at 2015 12:05 PM

SSG Paul Lanciault — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 12:05:59 -0500

I don't worry so much about the next generation that serves. They have some of the same values that we veterans have. Most have respect for themselves and others. I hope they continue to try improving things, not just changing them.

Response by CW2 Eric Scott made Mar 6 at 2015 12:08 PM

CW2 Eric Scott — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 12:08:17 -0500

No more than the generation before me worried about mine

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2015 2:29 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 14:29:00 -0500

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member This was very very well written and I think it has a lot of truth behind it.

My opinion is "Of course, we worry about the next generation". I'm on the outer edge of being in that next generation but I still consider myself part of a generation set apart from those servicemembers coming in the service today. This peacetime military vs. wartime military provides a generational gap that I have seen in my short 6 years in so far.

My reserve unit has roughly 150 Marines in it. I was part of the last detachment of Marines to deploy and only less than 20% of those Marines I deployed with are still serving (9 Marines). The vast majority of my company has not deployed and relies on our "old war stories" for guidance. These Marines are starting to step into the NCO ranks with not a lot of experience, so yes, I am worried about this generation.

Because I am worried about this generation I extended my contract and delayed hanging up my uniform so that I could help guide them as we prepare for the next theater of operations.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Mar 6 at 2015 2:29 PM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 14:29:30 -0500

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Mar 6 at 2015 2:41 PM

LTC Hillary Luton — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 14:41:03 -0500

I think every generation worries about the next generation. I think a lot of it goes back to simply understanding the next generation. We develop comfort zones, and each generation creates their own comfort zone. When a generation comes along that differs from what you grew up with, grew accustomed to, etc. you think they must be going down the wrong road, or they are going to screw everything up or there is no hope for them, but in reality, we all live, and we all learn and we all adjust. And yes, some will fail and some will fall. And even though they may not fit into our comfort zone, it doesn't mean they will fail. But worrying about them? Well, that is just natural.

Response by Cpl Bo Dronet made Mar 6 at 2015 3:11 PM

Cpl Bo Dronet — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 15:11:58 -0500

I have full belief in the American military the only problem I have is the politicians that are above them. Their incompetence can be overwhelming. I'm not saying this for them all I just know that there are some bad bunches out there

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Mar 6 at 2015 4:57 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 16:57:21 -0500

Hell yeah, I'm worried. I'm 72. It's in my job description to think the current generation is going to hell in a hand basket. Old farts have always suspected this, but...

Children rebel. Every generation before us rebelled. It's in our genetic code. We rebelled against our parents (until we aged and learned that they weren't as stupid as we once thought). Somehow we survived.

However, there's a difference today...

When children today rebel, their "educators" are stoking the fire. In the past we could depend upon educators to instill the same values that parents held. They taught love and respect for the culture and the country in history lessons. There were even civics classes dedicated to this very subject.

Today's schools are staffed with indoctrinaters and propagandists who are using the natural inclination of children to rebel to separate them from their parents. They give credence to every petty complaint that children can imagine. They have an agenda and it isn't consistent with our values.

To be honest, it reminds me of my brush with forbidden fruits compared to that of today's youth. In my day, sneaking a beer was a rush. We either swiped or paid some wino to buy it for us. However, we didn't have "pushers" coaxing us into sin. Today's pushers of illicit drugs make vast fortunes preying on our children and their desire for forbidden fruits (MJ, Coke, Horse, etc)

In my analogy, teachers have become the "pushers" of an agenda to wean our children from the concepts of self-government and instill a desire for a paternal government. They're largely successful because the children they are indoctrinating are mostly in need of parenting and many of today's parents have abrogated this function to the schools so that they (the parents) can pursue greater pleasures and careers. In other words, it's our own damn fault.

So, yeah, I worry... not about this generation. They largely escaped the problems I'm describing in our schools. However, I worry about the next, the ones singing anthems to leftist political leaders in elementary schools today, the ones denied civics classes in secondary schools today, and the ones in college today where professors are predominantly leftists.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Mar 6 at 2015 5:22 PM

SFC Collin McMillion — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 17:22:58 -0500

i believe we will pull through everything, but there are a lot of changes that need to be made. I was more scared of the situation in the middle than Vietnam. Nam was not respected so we were not and in the beginning of the middle east conflicts I think there was a lot of carry over from earlier times, but I do believe that now people are really seeing the dangers we face and are more willing to step up and face the challenges this great nation faces and make the sacrifices necessary to defend or way of life.

Response by MAJ Nathan Potter made Mar 6 at 2015 6:04 PM

MAJ Nathan Potter — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 18:04:51 -0500

Not in the context of this article. I worry that we, and the generations before, have set our planet on a course that future generations will have deal with without the option to kick that can down the road. Climate changes, some of what we are see today, are going to catalyze conflict in areas that we do not have a historical reference for dealing with. Our enemies change and continue to change. Our nobility has not. I have served with this military generation, and as with the ones before, the American Soldier continues to distinguish themselves as the global combatant, nation builder, and humanitarian that has been demonstrated time and again through our short history. We are in good hands. Now, if we can get our government focused...

Response by Col Lyman Faith made Mar 6 at 2015 9:15 PM

Col Lyman Faith — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 21:15:22 -0500

No. I raised two of the "next generation", what ever that means. Both have served with honor.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2015 10:46 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 22:46:47 -0500

Only as much as they worried about us. They thought we were a bunch of clowns. We showed them in 2004 and beyond that we were the next greatest generation.

I'm not worried about the next generation. Yeah they're different but so are the threats.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2015 12:03 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Mar 2015 00:03:56 -0500

To not have faith in the next generations skills and abilities is only a reflection of our own success and faith in our own abilities to do our jobs and not have them ready. It is not the methods, those change with time and circumstance. The question is did we do all we could to help the future leaders be ready to accept the baton for the next leg of the journey?

Kind of scary when we look at the question from this perspective.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2015 6:27 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Mar 2015 06:27:19 -0500

Do I worry about the next generation? No, not at all. I'm sure that in 1800 BC, the Babylonians may have worried about the next generation, but 3 MILLENNIA later, we know better. As humans, we have our faults, but we're educated enough to realize that we're no better or worse than the generations who preceded us in Vietnam, World War I, or the Civil War. My generation has performed just as honorably during OIF and OEF as the previous generations. I greatly respect the previous generations, but I feel that my brothers and sisters in the current generation deserve just as much respect.

If you're an old-timer who is worried about my generation, maybe you should talk to the predecessors who were just as worried about YOUR generation, in order to gain a more balanced perspective.

Response by MCPO Katrina Hutcherson made Mar 7 at 2015 8:33 AM

MCPO Katrina Hutcherson — Sat, 07 Mar 2015 08:33:51 -0500

I'm worried we will tie the hands of the warfare planners, give in to political pressure, political correctness and political agendas that cause mission creep, blurred lines of communication, problems with the status of forces agreements, etc. making it impossible to win the war and withdraw from a stable nation.

I'm worried about our increasingly detrimental effects on the planet and that the tipping point of no return is fast approaching. I'm worried about the effects on our country of global economics, trade and the increasing divide between the haves and the have nots on economic stability.

I worry that more countries have or are close to having nuclear weapons capability while we continue to decrease our stockpiles without requiring other countries to do the same.

I worry that ISIS is now much worse than Al Quaeda and a lot of the gains we made against the Taliban and radical Muslim terrorism are slipping while our politicians fail to recognize the seriousness of the threat because that road is fraught with politically incorrect land mines. Everything we have done so far to lessen the threat seems to grow more terrorists. Our foreign policy sucks!!!

The world is getting scarier and we may well need another "greatest generation" to deal with it.

Disclaimer: my opinions are affected because I'm a proud mother of an Air Force Captain and though I wholeheartedly support his service, mothers always hate to see their children in harms way. Especially when we are talking about such a barbaric and muderous cult. Standby for heavy rolls, the storm is still growing...

Response by SPC Jon Wilson made Mar 7 at 2015 5:33 PM

SPC Jon Wilson — Sat, 07 Mar 2015 17:33:40 -0500

As long as the old timers keep passing down the training and leadership skills to the new guys we'll be fine.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2015 2:31 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 14:31:03 -0400

To expand on the earlier comment about Ferguson, I found this exchange interesting:
protestor: "its a piece of cloth"
Soldier: "it means something to us"

- this is proof that soldiers coming up will do the right thing, do their duty, and with guidance, mentorship, coaching and care from their leaders/NCOs it is even more ensured.

for those who have not seen the vid its here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-kX1Ep3i2Y

Guardsmen Recover Desecrated Flag From Ferguson Protesters

http://www.onetokerighteous.com/news/national-guardsmen-move-ferguson-protesters-recover-remnants-burnt-flag/ National Guardsmen move in on protesters to rec...

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 3 at 2015 11:50 AM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 03 May 2015 11:50:50 -0400

The military is fine because we will grow leaders and train fighters. I am more worried about young people who have no clue on the responsibilities of being an adult is.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 12:41 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 03 May 2015 12:41:42 -0400

I feel us, the new generation entering the military will be good. I think we will do well to live up to our army values, do our best and do whats right as long as we have good sergeants and mentors to teach us this and lead us. Earlier generations were the same. Feared what was to come but as long as we have good leaders to teach the new generation and then us, the leaders of tomorrow to teach the generation after us, i feel we will still be the greatest military and nation on this planet.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made May 3 at 2015 3:38 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Sun, 03 May 2015 15:38:35 -0400

Times change, ideas evolve, newer ideas make the world grow. Standards may change with new ideas and new people. I would hope that there is a change.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 4:11 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 03 May 2015 16:11:08 -0400

No, I worry about those who represents the next generation. Those decision makers.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made May 3 at 2015 6:18 PM

SGT Rick Ash — Sun, 03 May 2015 18:18:23 -0400

I do think a lot about the "millennials" (Generation Y) since as a group they show no signs of caring about anything, even themselves. Left on their own they are as likely to sleep all day as not. They don't care anything about convention, not even maintaining the status quo.

They aspire to nothing, they don't want a job. They are shocked if you bring it up. They care nothing about politics, local or national. I can't find anything they care about. Most of them have failing grades in school but the teachers will pass them to get rid of them. The absolute worst thing about this generation is that they don't even understand consequences.

At my age it's not my friends that have these children. It's their children that birthed these useless kids and a real concern for the grandparents. They all still live at home and sponge off the parents for food and "spending money". In 50 years when their parents have passed away they will still be living in the same home they grew up in. They will have to rely on welfare because they will not have paid into Social Security like all of us do.

So, where is the next generation of policemen, State Troopers, military personnel and politicians going to come from? They will come from the millions of what we currently call "illegal aliens". Our Republic will be gone, the old USA will be a Latino nation, just like Central and South America.

Response by PO2 Kevin LaCroix made May 3 at 2015 7:56 PM

PO2 Kevin LaCroix — Sun, 03 May 2015 19:56:10 -0400

I was recently at an Air Force recruit training graduation. Many of the recruits impressed me. Many of these young airmen were already planning to be career Air Force. They seemed much more professional than when I was in Navy boot camp and "A" school.

The standards for advancement that our new young warriors are much high than in my day.

Response by MSgt Brian Welch made May 3 at 2015 8:34 PM

MSgt Brian Welch — Sun, 03 May 2015 20:34:01 -0400

I have great faith in all future generations as every generation before as has proven up to the task. We do consider the WWII generation the greatest. I agree, and think it is in part because of the enemy at the time was so clearly a danger that all among that generation "stood up". In contrast those that served in Vietnam, got nowhere near the credit for the same bravery and heroism. I believe heroism is much more profound when the enemy is not so clear and the war not so well understood. It was easy for me to do my part in the 911 era. Those coming after me may face more obscure conflicts and a public that doesn't support their effort, but I am confident that there will always be those that "stand up"...and in my mind those that stand up for our country are all combined as the "greatest generation". I remain humbled by all those that both served, continue serve, and will serve.

Response by CCMSgt Michael Sullivan Ph.D made May 3 at 2015 11:51 PM

CCMSgt Michael Sullivan Ph.D — Sun, 03 May 2015 23:51:08 -0400

I do worry, one thing that worries me is how the VA is going to handle all the vets that they will get. In Vietnam 70% of the death are not being saved due to our medical personal and advances in technology. We have more TBI'S a lot of amputates who would have not made it.

It's going to be very tough on the families who have to take care of the vets and now the Congress just cut $1.4 billion from the VA, we are getting more vets into the system everyday and not enough people to look after them.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 4 at 2015 5:19 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 04 May 2015 17:19:13 -0400

Many people mature in the military as it autocorrects or expels those who are incompatible with military service. I have all the faith the fighters will prepare for battle.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2015 5:21 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 May 2015 17:21:10 -0400

I am going to say no because the older veterans felt we would be like the hippies of the sixties and would be ultimately irreconcilable. But we adapt and if you look at demographics we kind of branch out into basically conservative/liberal/etc groups.

Response by SGT Richard H. made May 4 at 2015 6:18 PM

SGT Richard H. — Mon, 04 May 2015 18:18:06 -0400

I look at it like this: If we are not worried about the next generation, we're not doing our jobs.

Response by MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM made May 4 at 2015 9:24 PM

MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM — Mon, 04 May 2015 21:24:23 -0400

I am not worried. Our forces need to change right along with everything else. Today's threats and technologies will be different than tomorrow's, ultimately requiring a different kind of person to handle them. This is not the day of Spartans or Vikings.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2015 10:22 PM

CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 May 2015 22:22:32 -0400

I worry about the next generation of warriors a little, but nothing of real concern. I see today's generation as one that's a little more self-centered than previous generations, but I believe they'll step up when actually needed.

What I DO worry about, is the next generation of non-warriors. Just look at the stupidity that is abound today. The Eric Sheppard challenge? Really? There are exceptions, of course, but newer generations seem to possess an attitude of self-entitlement, with absolutely no regard for what it takes to get them what they feel they're "entitled" to receive.

Considering all generations that are still around, we've gone from a society that held their elders in high regard and where boys gladly held the door open for women, to one that is content (nay, eager) to entice and anger a crowd by stomping on the U.S. flag just for a few YouTube hits...one that favors a game called the "knockout challenge" whereby they choose random victims and sucker-punch men and women, knocking them out cold. WTF???

Am I worried about the next generation? Damn straight I am! What will it be next? Every day we face a fight...be it second amendment rights, or the general degradation of society as a whole. We have been spoiled as a society and are losing the battle.

Complacency kills...as warriors we all know this, but it applies to societies, as well.

Response by SSgt Michael Orcutt made May 5 at 2015 1:30 AM

SSgt Michael Orcutt — Tue, 05 May 2015 01:30:42 -0400

Worry is a good way to put it. That is one reason why I reasoned my boots, starched my old BDUs and joined the Civil Air Patrol. I get to interact with 12-18 year old cadets and attempt to instill some respect, self awareness, integrity and leadership into there daily life. Who knows, I might be the only person in their life that teaches them such values. I figure if I can have a positive impact on at least one kids life then I have done my job.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made May 5 at 2015 2:56 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Tue, 05 May 2015 02:56:48 -0400

I don't worry about the next generation of warriors, but some of these civilians need a thorough rectal exam.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made May 5 at 2015 2:58 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Tue, 05 May 2015 02:58:20 -0400

I wonder if future recruiting endeavors will include setting up a Call of Duty table and the high scores just get sent to USAREC?

Response by SGT Steven Shumaker made May 5 at 2015 3:54 AM

SGT Steven Shumaker — Tue, 05 May 2015 03:54:31 -0400

Everyday. I also do a little more than worry. I am a Scoutmaster, and I teach the boys in my Troop what it means to be an American. If I can get through to at least a couple...

Response by MAJ Chris Ballard made May 5 at 2015 7:54 AM

MAJ Chris Ballard — Tue, 05 May 2015 07:54:50 -0400

I remember in college taking a sociology course, and the professor read us a passage from a book where the author talked about "the youth of today with their baggy pants, lack of responsibility, and sense of entitlement." The author went on to lament about the future of the country with such a useless generation of lazy, privileged, unambitious kids.

The book was written in 1928.

We're old. Worrying about the next generation is part of our job description. I'm pretty sure there is a cave painting somewhere that depicts the next generation of Neanderthals as lazy and entitled.

Response by CSM Michael Lynch made May 5 at 2015 9:28 AM

CSM Michael Lynch — Tue, 05 May 2015 09:28:29 -0400

My thoughts are that yes we worry about the next generation all of us before and after have. I thought about that at my twenty year mark, when I though about retiring at that point. I looked around me though and saw the leaders that I taught, mentored and guided and knew we would be alright. I also knew that I was the green behind the ears young PVT that had solid leaders throughout the year that brought me up Army right.

At the 30 year mark, I saw the Senior leaders that I had served with and mentored over the years taking the reins and instilling their young troops. I will tell you coming from a recruiting background over the past 20 plus years, our teams as recruiters would question the same thing daily about the kids they interacted with on the ground.

They and there parents never felt better, when their young son or daughter graduated basic training. Typical response was "how did you do that in 8 weeks? We've been trying for years to get them to clean their room and make a bed", we all know the answer. Great DI's and leaders that taught , coached, mentored and trained them through out and these young men and women will carry it on. As Bill Murray and his crew said it was all due to ARMY TRAINING!!

I no longer worry about the Army being in good hands because we and our fellow leaders have done our jobs well and they will continue becoming great leaders and taking care of the Army and the country. Salutes to all of you and those currently taking the Army into the next generation of defense.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2015 9:43 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 05 May 2015 09:43:57 -0400

Great story enjoyed it but this is a converstation that every generation has over and over. I would not have concern there are great leaders in every generation and the Military will continue to dominate the world as it has for years.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made May 5 at 2015 2:06 PM

LTC Bink Romanick — Tue, 05 May 2015 14:06:30 -0400

No, they are the same as we were just different inputs in their development....they'll be fine.

I remember in the 50's and 60's when my generation was destined and doomed for failure because of rock and roll and hippies. For the most part we turned out all right.

Good advice from my mom " Never take counsel from your fears". This generation will be fine....look at them in their own terms. Not ours.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made May 6 at 2015 8:09 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Wed, 06 May 2015 20:09:52 -0400

Great topic MSgt Private RallyPoint Member!

Based on my experiences, it got to the point where pre MOB is the only realistic training that the NG got. Someone posted a great topic about combatives - we never did that. As MPs we barely did our annual civil disturbance training. Other than the range an APFTs we started becoming paper qualified more than BOG qualified and that's scary.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 8 at 2015 12:42 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Fri, 08 May 2015 12:42:31 -0400

Stated simply, Yes!

Response by CH (MAJ) William Beaver made May 8 at 2015 1:53 PM

CH (MAJ) William Beaver — Fri, 08 May 2015 13:53:38 -0400

DOES A FROG BUMP HIS ASS WHEN HE HOPS??

Response by MSgt Rob Weston made May 8 at 2015 2:09 PM

MSgt Rob Weston — Fri, 08 May 2015 14:09:12 -0400

We all do as did our predecessors and will the future

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made May 8 at 2015 5:10 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Fri, 08 May 2015 17:10:23 -0400

I knew so many people that believed that a command would go down the tubes without them around. It was silly. I always tell people "what would happen if you got run over by a truck on the way to work?"

Would the whole company/command you work for grind to a sudden halt? Of course not. There would be that momentary blip as somebody took your place.

I don't worry about the men and women in uniform, they will always step up. I worry about those who have never been in uniform who hold positions of authority over those in uniform. They have no clue what the life of a military person is like or how to utilize the military properly. From the deepest depths of the oceans to the edge of space, no matter what uniform we wear, no matter what rank we hold, we are all doing the same job ... defending the country we love.

Somehow, someway, when one falls another will step up to fill the hole.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made May 9 at 2015 8:01 AM

SGT Rick Ash — Sat, 09 May 2015 08:01:13 -0400

Bible says "Worry about nothing, Pray about everything". PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7. I pray a LOT about Gen Y. The millennials don't seem to have any motivation to do anything in my experience. I'll keep praying.

Response by SGT J Davis made May 9 at 2015 8:14 AM

SGT J Davis — Sat, 09 May 2015 08:14:01 -0400

Yes sir

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2015 10:54 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 May 2015 22:54:18 -0400

Great article! Hope so!

Response by SGT John Wesley made May 12 at 2015 5:38 PM

SGT John Wesley — Tue, 12 May 2015 17:38:42 -0400

I'm an optimist! I feel that we will be fine. I'm not one of those naysayers that feel that the world is going to crap. I think the next generation will have different challenges than our generation, but I see a lot of motivated young people out there.

Response by Sgt Ken Prescott made Jul 10 at 2015 12:04 AM

Sgt Ken Prescott — Fri, 10 Jul 2015 00:04:05 -0400

It is the nature of the older generation to worry about the younger generation. We forget that we were once young, inexperienced, and not-particularly-knowledgeable people; we forget that much of our wisdom was learned either through suffering the consequences of our own foolishness, or through seeing someone else's foolishness and the consequences thereof.
Just trust that those airmen you mentored into replacing you will continue the process for the ones immediately behind them, and the cycle will continue.

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Aug 30 at 2015 9:23 AM

SGT Scott Bell — Sun, 30 Aug 2015 09:23:05 -0400

YES

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 8:10 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 20:10:03 -0500

Well stated! Proves a point. From all the years and generations of changes in the army that's happened and is happening right now. The army is always adapting. I truly think that the ability to adapt very well to a situation will uphold the standards in any way shape or form. So I truly think the the standards will be upheld.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 20 at 2015 4:04 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 16:04:49 -0500

I believe most will mature and understand values and their roles in organizations and society. Maturity to a big degree hit me when I was working for mere existence. Those who had talent and experience made more money than me. Those who were older were my bosses or someone else's bosses. It became crystal clear. Sometimes it takes the experience or time to reach that clarity.

Response by SGT Rob Saylor made May 25 at 2017 8:25 PM

SGT Rob Saylor — Thu, 25 May 2017 20:25:31 -0400

I am. Because these 18, 19 years old kids I see nowadays are wimps. They don't understand the concept of hard work or sacrifice and everything is me, me, me!

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Sep 2 at 2018 9:16 PM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Sun, 02 Sep 2018 21:16:05 -0400

I worry. I mean, they eat laundry detergent, and probably can't start a lawnmower without a four hour class on combustion engines, and thirty years from now, they are going to run the show so yea, I am seeing the reason there are so many people 'Prepping" for the crap hitting the fan at some point.... https://www.pinterest.com/pin/ [login to see] 57806599/

Has no clue. | Marines for Life | Pinterest | Politics, Truths and Common sense

Has no clue.

Response by SSG Greg Miech made Jan 18 at 2021 3:59 PM

SSG Greg Miech — Mon, 18 Jan 2021 15:59:35 -0500

I think every generation has wondered this as well. There are the strong, weak, smart, bad and good leaders of every generation. Most of the bad ones will be weeded it out except those who play the game until retirement. It is the leadership schools, training and attention to the basics of discipline driven into soldiers at Basic makes the US Army strong. There were times of weakness as in the 70's to early 80's until leadership and drug problems were addressed. It took decades until PTSD was really addressed and will make the military personnel stronger later.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2021 7:08 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 19:08:09 -0500

90 percent worry about the next generation. The other 10 percent are liars :)

Response by FN William Ferguson made Aug 23 at 2023 10:34 PM

FN William Ferguson — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 22:34:32 -0400

We should not be warey of the next generation as it is changing to a newer type of generation with newer equi0ment and AI.