How has being stationed overseas or long-term deployed changed your outlook?

It gives you an appreciation for what we have in the US, especially after going to a third world sh!t hole like Somalia. Its bad enough we have the "haves" and "have nots" in our country but if everyone could live among the "have nothings" for a time, they'd never hopefully complain again.

Definitely makes me appreciate what we have in the US, stationed in Germany and deployed to Kyrgyzstan. My first 3 years in has been one hell of an adventure, seen multiple cultures, people from all walks of life. I feel more enlightened from the experience thus far and look forward to the next 17+ years

Yup. I was almost xenophobic when I got deployed to Bosnia. I stayed on the base almost the whole time except when the CO ordered me to day a day trip to Tuzla. Had a blast. I was further enlightened when I got orders to Korea. I had more Korean friends than American after I decided to enjoy myself.

That said, after three trips to the Middle East, I think that I know what region of the world I am never returning to voluntarily.

After spending almost 5 years in Germany and visiting other countries in Europe as well as being deployed to Afghanistan my outlook has remained the same. I was fortunate enough to experience Europe as a kid while my dad was stations overseas. Knowing what is out there beyond North America almost makes you crave the chance even more of seeing first hand the different cultures and all the history that we used to read about in school. I wouldn't trade my experiences for anything.

My military service has taken me to all, but four of our 50 states: ND, SD, WY and MT. It has also taken me to: Iraq x 2, Kuwait x 2, Korea x 3, Germany x 3, Ireland, Wales, England, Czech Republic, Laos, Malaysia, Australia, Thailand, Japan, Phillipine Islands, Guam (UST), Wake Island (UST), and Canada. Got to Mexico x 2, and France x 2 by myself. Wouldn't trade the experience for anything. Always keep my Passport and shot record up to date.

I most definitely agree with all these comments. Living overseas creates an extensive broadening of one's views and appreciation for practically everything that is often taken for granted by those who lack the experience. Having that perspective, in my opinion, can make you a better citizen.

It's a scary world out there.

And the US does not stop at the beach.

They've given me a greater appreciation for life back home. Having to deal with uncertanties while being deployed overseas seemed to ramp me up a bit. Especially when your in a combat zone where things can go south very quickly.

Being assigned to NATO/SHAPE and having the distinct opportunity to live in Belgium for six years was a highlight of my career and life. Before living in the economy of Europe and away from most of the influences of the USA, I was the only American in my village, my only experience was during deployments where I mostly concentrated on the mission and would venture out every so often. Afterwards, I found myself drawn more into the local culture and try to become a local.

One time in Budapest, Hungary, I was sitting on a bench waiting for the rest of the crew when a Midwest couple came up to me and asked for directions somewhere. Must have been the German newspaper I was reading, so in my worst Hungarian accent in broken English, I sent them on a treasure hunt through the streets to where they wanted to go. At that moment I realized that I was finally European living the dream. It was my ex-wife that made us move back to the states because she missed the shopping of America. I should have sent her back and stayed, I'd still be there.

I tell all the Airmen to put in for an overseas assignment and go experience another culture, it definitely makes you appreciate what we have here in America that much more. Those are memories nobody can ever take away from you. I will be back one day.

My deployments and OCONUS assignments have made me appreciate how good we have it in America.