Is there someone in the military, past or present, who you could thank for shaping your military career?

Hundreds of them, dare I say thousands..
I strived not to be like the bad ones, rise above the mediocre ones, and emulate the good ones.
Yes there were a few that stood out... Col John J. Ellis, Maj Richard Ince, Maj Brian Basset, CSM Franklin.. and a few who I would have happily punched in the throat that shall remain nameless.

and thanks for being your self... Happy Thanksgiving...

First I would thank my younger brother for taking the leap and joining the military before me. I might have never considered it an option if it wasn't for him.
I'd thank my recruiter for taking a chance on an older recruit and setting me on the right path.
I'd thank my Drill Instructors for never giving up on me and molding me into the Marine I am today.
Then I would thank the NCOs and SNCOs and Officers who shaped me into the NCO I became.
Lastly I would thank every Junior Marine that was under my charge because you're not truly a leader until you've had someone to lead and while they may have done stupid stuff, they helped me develop as a leader.