If you had it to do all over, would you change anything about your career in the military (e.g. career path, moments in your career, etc.)?

2016-07-22T16:05:39-04:00

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Jul 22 at 2016 4:07 PM

2016-07-22T16:07:30-04:00

The only thing I would change is not volunteering for my 5th deployment. It really beat me down and started me towards retirement.

Response by SFC Richard Giles made Jul 22 at 2016 4:15 PM

2016-07-22T16:15:40-04:00

Personally I would have stayed in the Marine Corps but I don't know if I would have retired as a E7. I would like to think I could have been promoted to E8 but promotions in the Marine Corps in the 80's was hard.

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Jul 22 at 2016 4:23 PM

2016-07-22T16:23:42-04:00

I would have went into the media field for the military

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 4:26 PM

2016-07-22T16:26:01-04:00

Nope. I made some DAMNED dumb mistakes, too - BUT - they all went into making me who I am today. One minor change and I may not have met my beautiful bride, I may not have been in position for promotions or advancement or whatever. No, I'd keep everything the same - warts and all.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 4:39 PM

2016-07-22T16:39:45-04:00

stayed active duty instead of going reserves, everything else no change

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jul 22 at 2016 4:50 PM

2016-07-22T16:50:33-04:00

Yes. I would have stayed in for 20.

Response by CDR Terry Boles made Jul 22 at 2016 5:40 PM

2016-07-22T17:40:33-04:00

That is a good question. Like most, knowing what we know now, the roads we traveled with all their lows and highs, it is easy to look back and if we could we would indeed make a few changes along life’s journey.

When I was all of 21 and on a Med cruise my skipper unbeknownst to me had submitted my name for a Naval ROTC scholarship and it came back approved. He called me to his stateroom and told me the news, he also said he needed a reply so he could in turn reply up the chain. Well you know it, I had to talk to the wife so we did a MARS hookup and sure enough she wanted me out of the Navy since we spent so much time apart. I wanted a naval career, but reluctantly I declined and eventually separated from the Navy and as time went by so did my marriage. You guessed it, I reenlisted and fast forward another 12 years and I finally obtained a commission, but in the Air Force. I guess, career wise I should have taken the ROTC scholarship and pressed on with the career I desired. My present wife whom I met on my second tour of active duty was very supportive of a military career and commission, and still is! She is an active duty colonel in the Air Force herself, so I guess one could say we support each other’s career.

Many years later we had an OI Division reunion and we invited that skipper to attend, he did. I spoke to him about the offer he made back then and his mind was as sharp as ever. He told me many things, but wasn’t surprised I had obtained a commission as he saw something in me many years earlier. I still wonder what he saw in a 21 year old sailor.

Response by MSG Pat Colby made Jul 22 at 2016 6:35 PM

2016-07-22T18:35:58-04:00

Most everyone has regrets.

My Article 15 said "some amount of marahuana (sic)" Went from E-4 back down to E-1 because I declined to name names. "Fuck 'Em" ~ I thought, it's US against them. The system won and the worse thing about it was the actual guy that OWNED the shit, named names and got off scott free from "the Man". I also got 30 days in Charlies Chicken Farm = Correctional Custody Facility.

Rappelling off the barracks roof while drunk got me into some serious shit.

The "Show Us Your Tits" Trailways scandal got me 45 days of extra duty with the Brigade CSM.

I regret NONE of those events and more. It was worth the memories.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Jul 22 at 2016 8:48 PM

2016-07-22T20:48:54-04:00

Hell No and Miss Out on all the History I got Involved In. I might have made more and better Rank but at what cost. No, I'm Rather Proud of being the Forest Gump of Military Intelligence "When S**t Got Weird, Chip was There".

Response by LTC Greg Henning made Jul 22 at 2016 8:50 PM

2016-07-22T20:50:59-04:00

Nothing major just a couple minor adjustments

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 10:38 PM

2016-07-22T22:38:08-04:00

SFC Richard Giles I have been a planner all my life. You make the best decisions that you can, with the available information. There is no going back, so I am fine with the decisions that I have made. Yes, I have made mistakes, along the way, but not the same mistake twice.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2016 10:53 PM

2016-07-22T22:53:03-04:00

I would have never gotten out. If I would of stayed in, i'd be retiring the upcoming year in 2017. Instead I decided to listen to some friends and walked out the door when the CORPS wouldn't give me what I wanted.

Response by PO3 David Fries made Jul 23 at 2016 5:11 AM

2016-07-23T05:11:06-04:00

The only two things I would do differently are; my first marriage, and getting out.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Jul 23 at 2016 10:57 AM

2016-07-23T10:57:21-04:00

Nope.

Response by SSgt Mark Lines made Jul 23 at 2016 2:42 PM

2016-07-23T14:42:42-04:00

No way. While I may have topped out at SSgt., it was so worth it. The people I got to meet and work with, James Earl Jones, Amy Grant, and Vince Gill to name a few, and the places I visited made it all worth it. Most importantly, I met my wife while on active duty. If I had been in a different job, or made different choices, I would not be with her now. That makes everything worth it.

Response by LTC David Brown made Jul 23 at 2016 3:48 PM

2016-07-23T15:48:32-04:00

I was in the reserves. After making LTC I was tired and had kids that needed me. I stacked arms so to speak. I did my drills as a supplier of medical services. When I came before COL boards I hadn't punched tickets. I sometimes wished I'd worked harder.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jul 23 at 2016 4:28 PM

2016-07-23T16:28:45-04:00

It is impossible to know what gains came at what costs. Even with the perfect knowledge I have now of when and where comrades would lose their lives my ability to stop that moment might only force a worse one the next moment or another later. The heartbreaking truth is we never know what effects are connected to causes and maybe it is a mercy that we cannot go back and change things. It gives us peace to accept things as they are. To bear our brothers in our memories, thank them for their actions and celebrate their memories. The inviolable flow of time mercifully excusing us from recalculating what we could have done by knowing we cannot. Semper Fidelis brothers, and may peace be upon you.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Jul 23 at 2016 5:35 PM

2016-07-23T17:35:11-04:00

I also made a few mistakes in my military career like most people do. But my career after I go out was filled with different things. Turned 3 jobs down, railroad, civil service, and some other job. Finely went to work at a tire company and stayed 18 and a half years and retired again. Got that one right.

Response by SPC John Adams made Jul 23 at 2016 10:30 PM

2016-07-23T22:30:08-04:00

Nah, I followed my plan and got what I wanted out of it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2016 12:37 PM

2016-07-24T12:37:04-04:00

I would've made the lifestyle changes necessary to keep me in standard years ago. Currently on ABCP for the second time in less than 2 years. Recoverable, but really shouldn't have placed myself in this position in the first place, nonetheless a second time...

Response by CMSgt Mike Esser made Jul 25 at 2016 3:26 PM

2016-07-25T15:26:27-04:00

I would have crossed back to Navy, Coast guard or Army and become a Warrant.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2016 4:03 PM

2016-07-25T16:03:31-04:00

The only thing I can really think of at this time is that I would have taken AT LEAST an Airborne IE Contract, which would have NOT sent me to Carson, and subsequently, not required my reassignment to Jackson. that simple concession set the tone for my entire career up to this point.

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made Jul 25 at 2016 11:59 PM

2016-07-25T23:59:15-04:00

Sometimes I think that I would have done things differently but I might have just made the same mistakes or made worse decisions. Since I basically enjoyed my time in the Army I don't really have anything to complain about.

Response by PO1 Tracy Dreyer made Jul 26 at 2016 6:31 AM

2016-07-26T06:31:08-04:00

I would not get out with 12 years

Response by SN Kristine Jensen made Jul 26 at 2016 8:00 AM

2016-07-26T08:00:24-04:00

My mistake was not making it a career. I had planned ever since I was little to go in the Navy. I enlisted in a 2 year program as an Airman. After the 2 yrs I decided to get out. Worst mistake I ever made. If I had to do it again I would've stayed in. Thank you all for your service!

Response by LTC Matthew Robinson made Jul 26 at 2016 8:27 AM

2016-07-26T08:27:57-04:00

Wow, that's a tough question to contemplate. I made so many mistakes and did so many dumb things, but they all went into making me who I am. Oh there were a few odd moments in which I acted in a petty manner that I might change. The only big one is, I failed as an LT to get good counsel when writing my OPS SGT's NCOER. I unwittingly gave him an anemic NCOER which may have cost him promotion to MSG. That's always bugged me. I was new and still green. I cranked out an NCOER that focused on his accomplishments but said nothing about promotion and future service. No one up the chain said anything during the review process. I really dropped the ball on that one. Other than that and specific instance in Baghdad which I will not post, I am comfortable with how things turned out. Not perfect, but man what a good ride. And, I brought everyone I took outside the wire back in one piece despite the efforts of the bad guys. Not bad for E-1 to O-5 and 27 years.

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Jul 26 at 2016 8:28 AM

2016-07-26T08:28:46-04:00

Honestly? I just wouldn't do it.

Response by CPO Bryan B. made Jul 26 at 2016 8:58 AM

2016-07-26T08:58:51-04:00

I wish I had listened to the ASVAB. I scored well and was offered everything except Nuc school (which was fine since I truly hate math!) but it pointed me in the direction of Corps school and was offered advanced Corps school upon completion of "A" school. But I was 17 and wanted nothing to do with being a "pecker checker." Before I retired I started EMT school and followed that with paramedic school and had a very good career until getting injured. BUT if I had listened to the ASVAB I would more than likely be a Physicians Assistant today. Don't get me wrong I had a great career in a fascinating job but for the decisions made by a 17 year old...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 8:59 AM

2016-07-26T08:59:38-04:00

I would have not taken NO for an answer when I was trying to go to certain schools and pushed harder to get them.

Response by PO1 Leon Berard made Jul 26 at 2016 9:46 AM

2016-07-26T09:46:02-04:00

My Navy career was great I would do it again and recommend it to everyone. If I could do it again I would work harder on advancement. I was E5 for 13 years! The benefits far outweigh any inconveniences. After retirement I had great job opportunity thanks to the training provided me by the Navy. I worked civil service a few years, Tv repair service, Machinist, Chief engineer KAVU- TV/KKBH-FM, and finally Worked as a chemical process operator OLEFINS Plant. I retired from the Navy in 1973. Retired from Formosa plastics 2000.

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Jul 26 at 2016 9:48 AM

2016-07-26T09:48:08-04:00

Hindsight being 20/20, in retrospect, I should have extended six months in Vietnam. I'd probably have gotten promoted quicker; I had a great job that I loved doing, and I wasn't in any real danger, sitting on top of Vung Chua Mountain.

Response by SSG Del Ray made Jul 26 at 2016 9:51 AM

2016-07-26T09:51:46-04:00

I would have went Active Duty instead of Guard. I would have chosen an MOS that I could use in the civilian world. Also went military instead of college. I needed maturity for college.

Response by SFC Jack Bennett made Jul 26 at 2016 9:52 AM

2016-07-26T09:52:47-04:00

All the job related tng. And prep for return to. Civilian life

Response by SSG Robert White made Jul 26 at 2016 10:09 AM

2016-07-26T10:09:51-04:00

Taken the promotion from SSG to 1LT (in the Reserves). I wouldn't have the problem with points I now have for retirement.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 10:14 AM

2016-07-26T10:14:29-04:00

not really change anything because I have five wonder children I might not have had if I changed anything....but I do wonder had I stayed active for twenty years...I could have been retired for 11 years now, but after 17 years off I joined the national guard and now I only have seven more years until I retire!!!

Response by Cpl Joe Laverty made Jul 26 at 2016 10:24 AM

2016-07-26T10:24:10-04:00

Stayed in

Response by TSgt Gwen Walcott made Jul 26 at 2016 10:26 AM

2016-07-26T10:26:40-04:00

uuuhhhh,
My experience was that personal desire and intentions were irrelevant ---- you were at the mercy of MPC and your opinion wasn't considered relevant.

Tried MANY times and many ways to redirect my career and after long deliberations and frustrations at beating my head against the wall, chose to separate after 15
BTDT

(In the words of MPC: "The Needs of the Air Force come first. Keep on dreaming")

Response by SGT Johnson Buquet made Jul 26 at 2016 10:37 AM

2016-07-26T10:37:33-04:00

I had a commercial pilots license.If I would have done things differently I would have go to flight school and re-upped.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 10:38 AM

2016-07-26T10:38:25-04:00

I certainly would. I almost made it to becoming an officer and changed my mind. Next go around I would become an officer because there are just not enough good officers around and the military need leaders who are not just interested in themselves but in the whole concept and those that are less ranked than them. I would show a better way. I do that now as a Senior NCO but I would probably have a greater impact if I was an officer.

Response by CW3 Dorbin Abendano made Jul 26 at 2016 10:45 AM

2016-07-26T10:45:51-04:00

Nothing. Selfless service fill the void of imperfection that is one of my Army values that I hold dearly.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 11:00 AM

2016-07-26T11:00:21-04:00

Should have stayed in the Army and made it a career. I miss the camaraderie and the action.

Response by SMSgt Roy Dowdy made Jul 26 at 2016 11:19 AM

2016-07-26T11:19:37-04:00

I would have started earning a degree earlier than I did and acquiring every certification I could on Uncle Sam's dime! Education makes all the difference in the world once your outside that front gate in the civilian world.

Response by CPT John Gilmore made Jul 26 at 2016 11:23 AM

2016-07-26T11:23:54-04:00

I would have stayed in! Stay in people! get your 20! or better yet 30!

Response by SSgt Sandy Loam made Jul 26 at 2016 11:33 AM

2016-07-26T11:33:44-04:00

No, I loved the career field I chose, I just would have been smarter. One that cost me the most was one afternoon I was working as a Desk Sergeant and our Capt called on the radio for something stupid that didn't pertain to us or our job. This was an on going issue with this flight commander and I had enough and I started being a smart ass to him and treating him like he was an idiot. Our Commander heard this as did the Wing Commander and Base Commander and needless to say, my Commander came running and yelling at me for being disrespectful to one of his officers. After he was done yelling at me and he asked if I had anything to say, I said "with all due respect sir, Capt xxx is an idiot and he has no clue on what he is suppose to do and what our job is." As a side note, he did agree with me and all he said was "while dealing with him on the radio, show him the respect his rank deserves." It cost me a points for promotion, but hey, I got slaps on the back for doing something everyone wanted to do.

Response by SSG Allen Hebert Jr made Jul 26 at 2016 11:40 AM

2016-07-26T11:40:12-04:00

Yes Stayed in the first time. loved my Job as a Aircraft Elect repairer 68F. Then came back in only way as a NBC guy, hated every little minute of that lame ass MOS, retired

Response by PFC Francis Ramseyer made Jul 26 at 2016 11:44 AM

2016-07-26T11:44:53-04:00

No, I was drafted and not very happy. As Mechanical engineer, I was making over 1,000.-/month versus 86.- as private. But I always liked the Army and have a great respect for what it stands. I am 79 but I would gladly give my life for USA.

Response by CDR Frank Aker made Jul 26 at 2016 11:54 AM

2016-07-26T11:54:04-04:00

I would have kept my opinions and observations to myself, worked to avoid the "UP or OUT" fever going around in the mid '80's (be aware of EGO's of those around you). The Military was my life, even though I did well as a Civilian (became a specialist, owned and operated a three doc clinic). I would have preferred to have served. I might have made it, with the Gulf War coming out of the blue in '90.

Response by CAPT Charles Weishar made Jul 26 at 2016 11:58 AM

2016-07-26T11:58:14-04:00

Yes, I would have. My career in the field of Intelligence began a couple years after joining the Navy. My first CO recommended it and my next assignment was to the Fleet Intelligence Center in Kenitra, Morocco. We supported the Navy's Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean. That was the real beginning of a 33 year career in the Navy.

Response by SPC Michael Dunton made Jul 26 at 2016 12:13 PM

2016-07-26T12:13:44-04:00

Yes,I wish I had of stayed in and made a career of the army

Response by CDR William Kempner made Jul 26 at 2016 12:21 PM

2016-07-26T12:21:17-04:00

Such a difficult question. As one or two of the older heads have said here, "it is all of the things that we have done that makes us what we ARE!!" And if you're okay with who you are, and where you are, then you came up with the ball! I have had some lousy experiences in the US Armed Forces, but invariably, if I hadn't taken the route I took, I wouldn't have met my wife (known her 35 years) my best friend (known him 43 years) spent three years stationed in the UK-last 18 months were the best of my life, and have been drawing a retirement check since I was 39. Made some great friends along the way-and a few enemies-I'll claim them, too (Bastards). I just saw something very sage on Facebook : "Don't compare yourself to others. Comparison is the THIEF OF JOY." good advice. Or as Satchel Paige-the famous pitcher from the old Negro leagues said "Don't look back. Somethin' might be gaining on you!"

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 12:21 PM

2016-07-26T12:21:40-04:00

The only major, career effecting mistake I made was at the end of my 1st enlistment. I was together with a girl that didn't want to be an army wife... So I ETS'd. Stayed out 10 years. I had good jobs during that time, but missed the Army. Didn't really help that I was living in Germany, working on post, and confronted by my decision daily. My marriage lasted a total of 17 years. My career has been very rewarding and the Army has been good since returning. Never give up your career for someone who won't support it. You'll find someone better who will. Wife number 2 has been rolling with the punches for the last 7 years and it's been great.

Response by SSG David Kidd made Jul 26 at 2016 12:43 PM

2016-07-26T12:43:37-04:00

I think I would have stayed in the entire 20 years instead of getting out after 7.

Response by Sgt Jim Weeder made Jul 26 at 2016 12:45 PM

2016-07-26T12:45:30-04:00

Stayed in!!!!! Looking back I could havedone 30 years standing on my head. After you retire then you can still go out and get a civilian job if you want.

Response by MSG Guy Smith made Jul 26 at 2016 12:57 PM

2016-07-26T12:57:34-04:00

This is quite the philosophical question for me. Would I have gone to Berlin as a young inexperienced Officer? Would I have watched my career race down the straightaway only to spin into the wall at 200 MPH? I walked away from that crash, but my career didn't. I returned to the Army after a long absence as an Enlisted Man and rose to MSG, so there is proof of life after death. Would I change anything? I look at my life now and think about how there are many things I would like to have done in the Army that I did not do. However, to go back and change them makes me wonder what would change about my life now. How would it affect the most important person in my life right now, my son. He's strong and smart. I've given him the benefit of my experiences over the years and he has listened. He's 28, an attorney, and on his way in his career, far better than I ever did at his age. In a way that is me, going back and doing it over again, by making sure that my son didn't make my mistakes.
However, if I did find myself back in Berlin, what is the one thing I would do? I would not trust that lying, cheating, SOB of a NCO I had as my first Platoon Sergeant. The one that lied to a young Officer that came to him for advice. Then went behind my back to my Captain and told him I wouldn't listen to him.
Ok, I'm better now, that being said, as an NCO, I always made it a part of my code to look out for young Officers and help them when ever I could. By doing this, I do, in a way, go back and change things, just not for me.
This may sound sappy, but it's part of the Army values.

Response by Sgt Lori Roberts made Jul 26 at 2016 12:59 PM

2016-07-26T12:59:25-04:00

I probably would have never left the Army to go into the Air Force. Back in the 80s obtaining rank in the Army was way faster than the Air Force. That I would do over.

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Jul 26 at 2016 1:02 PM

2016-07-26T13:02:41-04:00

When I joined the Army I wanted to be a sniper,I figured that since the Marines use THEIR scouts as snipers I would join the Cav...opps.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 1:29 PM

2016-07-26T13:29:16-04:00

Not been a bag of smashed assholes at my first command. But I was, and now, out of all the people I went to boot camp and "A" school with, I'm the only one still an E-4.

Response by A1C Anthony Ruggles made Jul 26 at 2016 2:43 PM

2016-07-26T14:43:40-04:00

The only thing I would have changed would be to have stayed in better shape and not lost rank for a single pound of weight. That would have given me more options when my position was eliminated even though I'm not sure it would have changed the outcome. I have no regrets, I served my country and have many good memories of my time doing it.

Response by SPC Tim Grasmick made Jul 26 at 2016 3:04 PM

2016-07-26T15:04:06-04:00

I think if anything I would stay in the Army. This would have been my 20th year. I have 12 years in all, but sure kicking myself now for getting out.

Response by LT Michael Watson made Jul 26 at 2016 3:18 PM

2016-07-26T15:18:29-04:00

If there were those points where we knew what the outcome would be before hand, then maybe. Sure, there are somethings that happened that could have gone better, but we are still alive and thus must have learned something. Play the cards that life dealt to you and make it worth living, or at least have some really good stories for your grandchildren.

Response by SPC Kathleen Harris made Jul 26 at 2016 3:44 PM

2016-07-26T15:44:27-04:00

Yes..Yes..Yes. When I joined the army I was 18 and immature. I missed the opportunities that were offered to me. During my time at MEPS, they offered me the chance to go to Language School. At the time I was good at the cryptograms. I was offered linguistic school. But I was young and thought I wanted to work with people. I jumped at the chance to be a Transportation Clerk. Did I mention I found out I hated paperwork. But I was stuck with my decisions. I was terrible at physical training and I did not like it at all. I hated marching, I hated running, I still have 2 left feet and could never stay in step. I got married, I got pregnant and I got out. I was stationed in Germany, I left there as a soldier, turned around and came back as a dependent.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 4:21 PM

2016-07-26T16:21:34-04:00

If I could go back and do it all over again I would change my career field. While I like Security Forces there are really no options outside of the Air Force that I really want to pursue anymore with my current Law Enforcement training. I'm just so burned out with LE and I really don't want to wait around for a possibility at a Police job when I get back home. Should have just picked HVAC or other CE job. I get out in one year and I'm now scrambling to get schooling done for HVAC. Its a really good trade. I want to eventually open up my own business and never have to work for someone again. I think my time spent in the AF would have been more enjoyable. Maybe I wouldn't be so salty lol.

Response by SP5 David Cox made Jul 26 at 2016 4:30 PM

2016-07-26T16:30:27-04:00

It looks like the common theme is that most everyone feels they are where they are today because of the steps they took to get there, and they wouldn't change, as they are happy with their current status. That's how I feel also. Getting out of the Army was the right move for me, but I don't regret the time I spent in the service either. I didn't really have much control of my destiny in my 4 years of active duty, but I got lucky. I had never heard of Ft. Huachuca before getting orders for there, but it turned out to be a great assignment.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2016 4:42 PM

2016-07-26T16:42:39-04:00

Would have reversed my decision and stayed in the Navy. I got out after Desert Shield/Desert Storm after 1991 after 10 yrs. At the time I had a young family had been gone what I thought was way too much for my time in and felt I was missing something. Took a ten year break and enlisted in the USAFR in 2001 and have stayed true since then with 3 more deployments. Had I stayed USN I would've retired by now, working towards a second retirement.

Response by SPC Albert Lopez made Jul 26 at 2016 4:45 PM

2016-07-26T16:45:01-04:00

Yes, would have concentrated more on my career and less on the marriage that was doomed to fail anyway.

Response by Sgt Chuck Stewart made Jul 26 at 2016 4:58 PM

2016-07-26T16:58:57-04:00

I would have stayed in with hindsight being 20/20. I loved being in the Corps and wanted to stay in but reaching all those limitation requirements. After I got out 6mo later found out, they finally opened the field for promotions after being frozen for 4 yrs

Response by PO2 Robert W. made Jul 26 at 2016 5:13 PM

2016-07-26T17:13:17-04:00

For me, and this is just my story. There is only one thing I would change. I would have put the booze and dope down earlier. I don't even want to say that I would never have picked it up, because it gave me the experiences I have today. I'm just thinking out loud that maybe just a bit sooner.
It's been over 10 years since I got clean and I'm living the life I always dreamed about. So maybe it was meant to be this way or maybe I kept putting it off. Either way, here I am.

Response by SFC Larry Jones made Jul 26 at 2016 5:39 PM

2016-07-26T17:39:58-04:00

Yes, I would pay better attention to my recruiter (I later became one), realize I was poor and needed the bonus he was talking about, become a linguist and follow an entirely different career path from the one I did.

Response by SGT Alejandro Sarandrea made Jul 26 at 2016 6:24 PM

2016-07-26T18:24:59-04:00

Yes! When I enlisted my dad convinced me to go chemical because he wanted me to make it back home in one piece. I would have went counter intelligence or civil affairs like my gut told me! Regardless of my physical safety I would of been 100x more fulfilled doing that type of work. I feel like 74D is an obsolete MOS outside of tech escort.

Response by PV2 Tony Morice made Jul 26 at 2016 6:59 PM

2016-07-26T18:59:42-04:00

Wish I would have stayed in and became a lifer! That is a deep regret of mine!!

Response by CPL Scott Young made Jul 26 at 2016 7:13 PM

2016-07-26T19:13:18-04:00

No. Not a thing. I have my choices and scars, both physical and mental. I am stronger than everything that tried to get me. I am proud of my service during both Iraq wars and would do it again in a heartbeat. Medically retired and proud of it. Many thanks to all who have taken up where I left off. And much respect and gratitude to all who went before me. All the love in the world to those brothers and sisters who paid the ultimate price. Thanks for letting me get that out.

Response by TSgt Ronald Reed made Jul 26 at 2016 7:42 PM

2016-07-26T19:42:35-04:00

I would have stayed more than one tour in Vietnam. I retired after 20+ and I now wish that I would have stayed longer. I enjoyed my career path in Communications but wished I would have changed to the Marines as a Helicopter Pilot. You will never see or enjoy the fellowship in Civilian life as I did in the Military. We are one big family and help each other to move up in rank.

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made Jul 26 at 2016 7:55 PM

2016-07-26T19:55:06-04:00

The only thing I'd have liked to have done differently at this point is work in a different career. Weather, even though it interests me, is definitely not my calling in life.

Response by PFC Brian Lesnikowski made Jul 26 at 2016 8:05 PM

2016-07-26T20:05:51-04:00

Kept my d*ck in my pants at the Special Forces Aidman Course, 300F1, at Ft Sam in '84

Response by CMSgt James Frankland made Jul 26 at 2016 11:15 PM

2016-07-26T23:15:07-04:00

I was in the Air Force for 26 years and retired as a CMSgt so I must have done something right. My last three assignments were as an Action Officer at a Major Command Headquarters from there to a Branch Chief position in the Presidential Wing at Andrews AFB and finally as an Action Officer on the Air Staff at the Pentagon. I did make one very bad decision as an E-8 that shall remain private but with the help of a very close friend who happened to be an E-9 that mistake was rectified. He managed to convince my wife that it would be a major mistake on her part to insist I retire at 20. She changed her mind I went on to the Senior Academy and the rest is history. That almost mistake would have cost me dearly in the years after I retired and the positions I was employed in and the salaries I earned.

Response by PO1 Gregg Mundy made Jul 27 at 2016 12:16 AM

2016-07-27T00:16:03-04:00

First of all you can never go back, but, financially speaking I would have stayed in the Navy. Speaking personally if I had stayed, I don't think I would have met the wonderful wife I have now, who by the way makes my life a joy. Like my Daddy use to say, "Son, you make your bed, then you have to lay in it". Right now I'm pretty comfortable!! So "Good' decision or "Bad" it your choice.

Response by SSG William Roseberry made Jul 27 at 2016 12:51 AM

2016-07-27T00:51:27-04:00

I would never have left the Navy
I would never have joined the Army.
I would have accepted the Congressional Appointment to the Naval Academy Prep School when it was offered.

Response by LCpl Kenneth Heath made Jul 27 at 2016 1:08 AM

2016-07-27T01:08:51-04:00

I would've paid more attention in my schools. Paid more attention in my daily duties. NOT married the woman I did at the time that I did. I would've chosen Okinawa as a first-year assignment instead of a last-year one... it pretty much boils down to this: I would've listened to the Marine Corps more often when they indicated the right thing to do! :p

Response by SGT Dan Slavings made Jul 27 at 2016 4:26 AM

2016-07-27T04:26:37-04:00

i would have stayed in longer, put my career before my wife's career, now my ex.

Response by GySgt James Marchinke made Jul 27 at 2016 6:36 AM

2016-07-27T06:36:15-04:00

Would have cancelled my PCS and went to Desert Storm; family came first but realized after the Military was my family then and now!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 7:17 AM

2016-07-27T07:17:01-04:00

No all my trial and tribulations made me the leader that I am now.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 7:29 AM

2016-07-27T07:29:20-04:00

As it turned out, 3 wives later and too many jobs to count, I have a good life now. I sometimes think of that when I think about how and why I got out after 5 yrs of active duty in 1988. After a 13 yr break I am in the National Guard with 21 yrs of service and 25 months to go to retirement. So I guess I wouldn't change a thing...with the exception of making better investments...lol

Response by SPC Christopher Perrien made Jul 27 at 2016 10:13 AM

2016-07-27T10:13:28-04:00

Nope. Turned down West Point (academic commission ) at age 17(1983). Had to also inform my Senator Trent Lott , I did not need his help. LOL. Then I joined in 1985 after one college year, as a private and a Tanker. Turned down extension and PLDC in Germany to get out of my first great unit,when it was going to south after two years and all my good leaders were leaving. Turned down reenlisting and boards(twice) at Ft.Polk , and got out as a SPC4. NCO's were becoming ball-less disgrace by 1989. Went guard in1990 and got out at true ETS- 8 years(turning down E-5 boards again twice there) in 1993. Especially after that first silly Desert Shield/Storm, where I was activated again for 7 months(which also killed 3 of my old comrades in various units in SA/Iraq) and then that draft dodging Bill Clinton got elected. Though in the end George Bush Sr. had about as much honor as Clinton did. None. And that is sad to say for a WWII torpedo pilot.

Can safely say I never had to murder anyone for the GWOT(War for the MIC and Israel, AFAIAC). Now I look back 25 years later , and I would not have changed a thing. The Army Combat Arms was still a grand and honorable and non-PC thing to be in and part of , when I was in, and I did my part and I am better for it. And I did far more than my share of out-standing stuff, (got about 20+ medals if you think them important, never counted or wore all of them), and had outstanding fun. Broke a few hearts(my own included) but hey , that was military life and you can't stay places forever.

Response by GySgt Ed Gartland made Jul 27 at 2016 10:18 AM

2016-07-27T10:18:13-04:00

No. During my 10 years active duty and 17 years reserve I spent 9 yrs active duty and 12 yrs reserve as Cryptologic Linguist/Analyst. Most of my reserve time I was employed by NSA. Good career, good pension.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Jul 27 at 2016 10:34 AM

2016-07-27T10:34:13-04:00

No, not at all. Granted I was a flier for 3/4 of my career and have always said that it was hard to believe that you actually got paid for the thrill of flying military aircraft. Interestingly, I was commissioned through ROTC in May, but due to backlog in flight school did not come on active duty until November. Around August I actually received notice that since I was no longer in school I had been drafted, guess we had a real active Draft Board in my town! Easy fix, but guess my military career sure would have been different if I hadn't taken ROTC.

Response by TSgt Robert Mahaffy made Jul 27 at 2016 10:48 AM

2016-07-27T10:48:15-04:00

I enlisted in the Air Force with the intention of finishing my degree, earning a commission, and becoming a pilot. Unfortunately, when you're 17 and your told that you have until you are 26 to get something done (the max age at that time to be accepted into UPT) you think you have forever. After three assignments and more nights wasted at the club than I care to count later, 26 came and went faster than expected. If I could go back, I'd be more disciplined in what I had to do and not as inclined to be distracted.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 11:32 AM

2016-07-27T11:32:37-04:00

I'm a newly minted Private, been out of AIT for... Coming up on 2 months in just over a week. I'll be promoted to PFC in about a month or less. SSG is trying to do it now apparently.

I'm an NG Soldier, as such I do my 2* days a month and my AT 2-3* weeks a year and whatever else they call me up for. As such I have felt a huge disconnect with society since I've gotten back. I've had 2 drills thus far and it's the only time I've really been happy since being out of training. Don't get me wrong seeing family and friends, going to the movies and restaurants have been great compared to MRE's and sitting in the barracks or formation for no reason whatsoever. Though that was IET-land and I've been told that Big Army is a lot different then that.

... But... Even though IET was a lot of BS, so much so that even the Sergeants admitted it fairly regularly. All of it and being at drill with my unit and the guys around me, the feeling even when it's just boring work is so much better than Civilian life. I didn't think I would experience that when I enlisted. I miss being in a barracks, I miss PT every morning with the platoon.

So if I were to go back and change anything knowing what I know, I might switch to RA instead of NG. I'm proud of the Guard and proud to serve my State and the Country if they call on us but active life... I know the grass seems greener but I really detest Civilian life as it is now.

Response by SGT Stanley Bass made Jul 27 at 2016 11:37 AM

2016-07-27T11:37:01-04:00

It all happens for a reason, to build you and make you who you are. I am a firm believer of this. However, I have often looked back and said "At this point in my career i could have done this, it would have led to this and this. But i would not be where i am today, if I had done that. In short I like where I am at this point in my life, and if i would have made other choices i would still be at this point in my life and maybe in a better posotion, and possibly worse off. I like where I am.

Response by Cpl Michael Crowley made Jul 27 at 2016 12:28 PM

2016-07-27T12:28:10-04:00

I would have pursued civilian validation for my military training (IT) and I would have started college. I joined with the belief that it would be a stable career choice and that I could spend my first 4 years learning my job, re-enlist, and spend the rest of my career progressing through college. I hoped to retire at 39 with degrees and certifications so that I could move into high level civilian IT (private or federal agency). During the draw-down I was a mediocre PT score, expert marksman, and accomplished Data Network Supervisor, but I was ill-prepared to not re-enlist and my wife's illness/death was unfortunate. 5 years later I'm struggling to attend school and work while providing an example for my children to emulate. Moral of the story: Take charge of your career immediately.

Response by PO3 Christine Freeman made Jul 27 at 2016 12:58 PM

2016-07-27T12:58:23-04:00

No. I would have stayed in longer. I loved my career as a Storekeeper.

Response by PFC Scott E Klewicki made Jul 27 at 2016 5:51 PM

2016-07-27T17:51:13-04:00

Without a doubt the only thing I would change would be to enlist in the regular army to "grow up". I enlisted at 17 while still a senior in high school so I could go to basic training between my senior year and first year in college and enroll directly in the senior program of the ROTC program at the college I was attending (I was not going to get a scholarship). Under the reserve siimultaneous member program I could skip the first two years and get commissioned as a 2LT in two years and not four. In reality I would have been 19 and truly not ready. That time as learning, growing and overcoming some insecurities would have contributed greatly to my potential success.

Response by LCpl William Perry made Jul 27 at 2016 7:32 PM

2016-07-27T19:32:18-04:00

I was 0331 M-60 gunner and then was transferred (not my choice) to Marine Barracks. I was told it was an honor and I did appreciate the path it could have gone, but I always missed not being with my grunt brothers. Or I should say in the MOS, as I like any and every Marine as my Brother/Sister.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2016 7:35 PM

2016-07-27T19:35:44-04:00

...too many to list

Response by COL Michael Freville made Jul 27 at 2016 7:46 PM

2016-07-27T19:46:02-04:00

Just be proud of what you do. Show up every day and do your best job and then go home. Walk away from trouble.

Response by SPC Ken Gunnett made Jul 27 at 2016 8:03 PM

2016-07-27T20:03:57-04:00

I was a MP at Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin, I think that learning how to play the game would have helped my career. Things like pretending to be God's gift to the MP Corp, when officers and senior NCO's were in the area. I saw so many suck ups get promoted before me, people who lacked the skills that I had; they just talked a good game when the right people were around, then reverted back to their natural state when those people left the area.

Response by SPC Michael Mead made Jul 28 at 2016 10:51 AM

2016-07-28T10:51:50-04:00

Given the same circumstances, I'd do it again. Given the laser-sharp, crysta-clear focus of hindsight, I think I'd do a few things differently.
Like shop it around at first. I enlisted in the Army, the first recruiter I spoke with. Should've talked with the other branches before deciding. And maybe Aviation instead of Armor.
Paper-thin distinctions, actually. I'm glad I served, and I'd do it again. God bless America, and all of you who serve today.

Response by MSG Ed Dammer made Jul 28 at 2016 1:14 PM

2016-07-28T13:14:13-04:00

First, I would have become airborne qualified. I've always regretted that I didn't do that.

Second, I would have stayed AD (although back in the Dark Ages when I was a lowly E1-E4, Army pay was HORRIBLE and there was no indicators that it would ever get any better.)

On a more positive note, I did join the Army Reserve and retired from there with 29 years total service. The benefits I'm enjoying now made that VERY worthwhile.

Response by MSG Bryan Taylor made Jul 29 at 2016 1:03 AM

2016-07-29T01:03:01-04:00

Before achieving E-7, i started a warrent officer packet. I think back after even after making E-8 i should have finished that packet

Response by PO2 Robert Dukes made Jul 29 at 2016 3:21 AM

2016-07-29T03:21:45-04:00

I would have remained in the Navy. I really miss the time I was there and regret leaving.

Response by PFC Michael-Vince Dickinson made Jul 29 at 2016 2:33 PM

2016-07-29T14:33:56-04:00

Yep, wouldn't have just settled on infantry, tried to do more. But in the 80's attitudes where different, difficult, towards soldiers then.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 7:11 PM

2016-07-29T19:11:11-04:00

It's extremely easy to ask a "Monday Night Quarterback" question, and then answer it with any degree of viability. The only truthful reply I can offer is I did the best I could with the training I received and the opportunities I was afforded. I sleep just fine knowing I could not have done any better.

Response by SGT David D Williams made Jul 29 at 2016 11:23 PM

2016-07-29T23:23:58-04:00

I would have gone to Infantry OCS after Vietnam and made it a career. That time in my life I felt an obligation to the men that I had served with, and wanted to return to that feeling of belonging. The officers I served with were incredible, and I admired their dedication and training.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Jul 30 at 2016 12:05 AM

2016-07-30T00:05:09-04:00

I should have joined the Air Force.

Response by SPC Christopher Perrien made Jul 30 at 2016 1:50 AM

2016-07-30T01:50:41-04:00

Per my other posts. I just figured out the one thing I would have changed . I missed one tank target once out of the 100's I shot. I should not not have "Led" that target the way I did as per training guidelines, during a simulated LRF/Ballistic computer failure, missing a moving tank target by about 6 inches. I should have just shot straight at the dang thing. LOL

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2016 12:40 AM

2016-08-01T00:40:46-04:00

I think everyone has things that they would "Do-over" if they could, the important thing is to not get stuck dwelling on them and look to make the future the best you can. this is coming from a guy that is retiring next year as a SSG so I got a lot of things I would "Do-over" lol

Response by SGT Harold Slack made Aug 1 at 2016 11:11 AM

2016-08-01T11:11:54-04:00

there are so many things i would have changed lol lets start with the multiple ar 15s lol then it would be my mos then many others

Response by SGT Shawn Dobson made Aug 2 at 2016 9:08 PM

2016-08-02T21:08:46-04:00

never would have went to FT DRUM ...enough said

Response by LCpl Stephen Sharp made Aug 4 at 2016 12:49 AM

2016-08-04T00:49:12-04:00

3/5 & 3/9 - I only did 6 years, but i saw 18 countries and loved every mint of every year. The only thing I would change is NO IG inspections -- LOL

Response by PO2 Sean Robinson made Aug 14 at 2016 9:18 PM

2016-08-14T21:18:48-04:00

I would have re-enlisted at least for shore duty instead of sperating at EOS

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2016 9:31 PM

2016-08-14T21:31:39-04:00

I have no issue where I'm at now.... But back in December of 2013 I was set and ready to enlist as 09W and pursue flight on AD.... But a little mishap with the law and I lost that gig. I was dead-set on flight (I studied the airframe of the UH-60 in my free time). But would I change what I have now for it? No

Response by MSG Carolyn Hunter-Drake made Aug 22 at 2017 9:04 PM

2017-08-22T21:04:51-04:00

1. I was asked to attend I.T.class 2. I only completed first phrase of Military Intelligent, then left the unit; young and dumb. Ran into the first group, who wired our whole building, then spent their military tours in D.C. (1. I.T.team), then ran into my other unit in Iraq while interrogating a group of people (2. M. I.team), all I could do was shake my head. but, all of us still ended up in the same area, it's just that, I believe if I would have went to I.T. class, I would have ended up in some type of software in civilian world, and if I were to have complete M.I. then I would have been in the F.B.I. or something like that. Instead, I am still in the government (a dang ole mail carrier), and people still think I am some type of inspector because I don't interact with the mass, go figure.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jan 8 at 2018 8:05 PM

2018-01-08T20:05:21-05:00

Absolutely. I wouldn't have gone out of my way to piss off superior officers

Response by SGT Ryan Fleek made Jan 8 at 2018 8:20 PM

2018-01-08T20:20:34-05:00

Know then what I know now, I would have not gone Infantry. I would have chosen either 18D Special Forces Medic, or PJ, Pararescue. Now being a civilian medic, and finding happiness in medicine, I would have done it in the military as well.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2018 9:44 AM

2018-01-09T09:44:15-05:00

Never would've gotten out for five years. I'd be retiring in two years if I had stayed in. Now I have to do seven more.

Response by CA Delete D. made Jan 9 at 2018 12:24 PM

2018-01-09T12:24:38-05:00

I think I would've worked harder to find better advice prior to signing my enlistment contract. I ended up cross-rating into my desired rating, but took until a little over 2 years into my contract. The folks at MEPs were more worried about manning quotas and going on their lunch break than helping me. My recruiter was a nice guy, but ineffective and kind of a dolt. I believe I could've gotten a better contract and would've had a better initial experience.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2018 1:33 PM

2018-01-09T13:33:38-05:00

SFC Richard Giles most Army people I have met over the years say in retrospect I should've joined the Air Force.....

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Dec 29 at 2018 8:11 AM

2018-12-29T08:11:07-05:00

I would have gone to more military schools.