What are you most thankful for about your military experience?

RallyPoint News — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 08:14:08 -0400

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Response by SrA John Monette made Nov 2 at 2021 8:17 AM

SrA John Monette — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 08:17:34 -0400

The chance to see new and exotic locales, like North Dakota and Arkansas!!!!! But really, it was the pride and patriotism that my service reaffirmed in me.

Response by MSgt Dale Johnson made Nov 2 at 2021 9:02 AM

MSgt Dale Johnson — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 09:02:16 -0400

Travel, I love to see new places and during my career I have been allowed to go into every state except Maine (on my Bucket List), as well as 7 different countries.

Response by PO2 Robert Kelly made Nov 2 at 2021 9:03 AM

PO2 Robert Kelly — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 09:03:09 -0400

The discipline which afforded me the opportunity to grow into an individual I could be proud of and the team work that taught me the value of trusting g others and also the lack of proper English that has enabled me to master the run on sentence.

Response by LTC Tom Jones made Nov 2 at 2021 9:37 AM

LTC Tom Jones — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 09:37:09 -0400

For introducing me to an extremely wide diversity of people, places and things that have made me more curious, more competent, more humble and more appreciative of the ideals and applications that made this a once great nation.

Response by A1C Riley Sanders made Nov 2 at 2021 9:48 AM

A1C Riley Sanders — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 09:48:28 -0400

My life changed when I knelt to pray.
I'm most thankful that Christ answered ,
I'm most thankful for Christ and the promised Holy Spirit.

Response by PO2 Russell "Russ" Lincoln made Nov 2 at 2021 11:22 AM

PO2 Russell "Russ" Lincoln — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 11:22:43 -0400

I am most thankful for the varied experience I got through the military. It has allowed me to find and keep a job since I got out, now I am looking forward to retirement.

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Nov 2 at 2021 12:16 PM

SSG Carlos Madden — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 12:16:38 -0400

The people I met

Response by SSG Christopher Conklin made Nov 2 at 2021 12:57 PM

SSG Christopher Conklin — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 12:57:09 -0400

I would like to say "THANKS", to all the great personal that I met will in and still friends with many of them. Went thru a lot of hell to together but we made it. To all the all the leadership, from the butter bars to the Major General, thanks.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2021 12:59 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 12:59:31 -0400

The incredible people I have met, and the lifelong friendships

Response by CPL Ryan Thibault made Nov 2 at 2021 1:21 PM

CPL Ryan Thibault — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 13:21:46 -0400

I am thankful and grateful for the opportunity to be the man that I am today. I joined the Army as a misshapen, rough piece of coal and was shown the path to becoming a diamond. Sorry for the dramatic phrasing but it wasn’t until I retired from the Army that I really learned how to love myself and not just say that I did. Because of my service my two youngest brothers both joined Navy & Marines right after high school. They both served honorably and are beginning the rest of their lives with support and direction. I am so blessed to have done what I did, when I did and I would do it over & over again.

Response by SSG Lew Wilson made Nov 2 at 2021 2:00 PM

SSG Lew Wilson — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0400

i have gotten to see 7 foreign countries and traveled to a few states that other wise i would never have been able to see, I have met some dang fine people and a few A holes that have given me a lesson or 2 in life , been to a couple schools that helped develop my way of thinking and or educated me in other matters, some of which i can use as a civilian .

Response by GySgt Edward Reagle made Nov 2 at 2021 2:31 PM

GySgt Edward Reagle — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 14:31:41 -0400

I am most thankful to anyone I met while serving 20 years as a Marine different duty stations different tours. I have the utmost respect of the service members that I met during my 20 years I think we all learn from each other.

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Nov 2 at 2021 2:40 PM

Cpl Vic Burk — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 14:40:48 -0400

The ability to say to any situation, "I can do this" instead of wondering if I could do it. That is the difference between being successful or failing; the confidence to believe in yourself.

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Nov 2 at 2021 2:55 PM

SSG Bill McCoy — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 14:55:32 -0400

Thankful for the outstanding leadership of those I served under, and being physically able to serve this country along with the men & women I served with.
I do fear today's military leadership's "woke" views however.

Response by SP5 Skip Saurman made Nov 2 at 2021 3:39 PM

SP5 Skip Saurman — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 15:39:55 -0400

As a 19 year old "kid" in Vietnam . . . I grew up, and fast! To this day, having survived Vietnam, losing a child, a somewhat ugly divorce, and a loved one's stroke, I feel that I can (and do) handle anything that's thrown at me.

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Nov 2 at 2021 4:37 PM

MSG Thomas Currie — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 16:37:09 -0400

Thankful for great comrades, especially during my one combat tour and the day several years later 2ID considered starting WW3.

Response by 2LT Bruce Mendelsohn made Nov 2 at 2021 4:57 PM

2LT Bruce Mendelsohn — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 16:57:09 -0400

The opportunity to meet and serve (and occasionally suffer) with people from diverse backgrounds, and to share a common goal that transcended our differences.

Response by Capt Sylvia DeBorger made Nov 2 at 2021 7:16 PM

Capt Sylvia DeBorger — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 19:16:12 -0400

I am thankful for the way the military takes care of its members - food, clothing, housing, medical care , Space-A travel, retirement benefits, educational benefits - to name just a few.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Nov 2 at 2021 7:24 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 19:24:05 -0400

The Privilege of Service.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2021 8:47 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 20:47:14 -0400

Good leadership and the discipline and work ethic that typically overshadows my civilian counterparts. I was taught a higher standard of work done, and continue to live by that now, in the Private Sector. And it causes me to stand out above most of my peers.

Response by SSgt Kathleen Fleitz made Nov 2 at 2021 8:52 PM

SSgt Kathleen Fleitz — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 20:52:48 -0400

I'm most grateful that I was able to get away from a tiny town out in the middle of nowhere. I would've probably married my sweet but boring boyfriend, and been miserable. Thanks to the military, I got to travel, get my B.S. degree, and meet so many interesting people.

Response by PFC Andrew "Tommy" M. made Nov 3 at 2021 3:27 AM

PFC Andrew "Tommy" M. — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 03:27:20 -0400

The friends and acquaintances I made

Response by SSG Rick Miller made Nov 3 at 2021 8:52 AM

SSG Rick Miller — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 08:52:49 -0400

I'm grateful for the things I learned. It taught me that the only thing that limits your capabilities is you. It taught me that there is something bigger than self, and that something is worth whatever sacrifice is required. It taught me that people all over the world are more alike than they are different. I'm grateful for the Army showing me that there's a great big world out there, and most of it ain't so bad. That is based on being in no less than 14 different countries.

Response by SFC Terry Fortune made Nov 3 at 2021 12:39 PM

SFC Terry Fortune — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 12:39:25 -0400

Thankful to all the NCO's and Officers who help me to be a good soldier and leader.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2021 5:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 17:59:06 -0400

I am grateful for everything the military has taught me. Both the good and the bad because it molded me into who I am today.

Response by A1C Joseph Copeland made Nov 4 at 2021 1:48 AM

A1C Joseph Copeland — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 01:48:35 -0400

I lived in Spain for 3 yrs 2 days 2q hours. Thank you GOD

Response by MSG Ron Radar made Nov 4 at 2021 10:23 AM

MSG Ron Radar — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 10:23:47 -0400

I'm thankful for the opportunity's 21 years in uniform gave me . The fantastic people I was stationed with over the years , the experiences I'd never have had as a civilian from travel to the cultural to the building of my selfdom ( becoming who I am as a person ) . The military taught me that there's really no limits as to what we as individuals can accomplish once we learn how to work together as a team in our units and the military as a whole , and then civilian life . The self confidence learned while serving carries over into the civilian work force and I've found that those who have served tend to make not only better employees but better leaders in Companies as well .

Response by TSgt John Buzzard made Nov 4 at 2021 1:50 PM

TSgt John Buzzard — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 13:50:02 -0400

Probably saved my life. I was 17 going down the wrong road in Cleveland and just dropped out of school. My 1st Titan missle crew commander Lt Steve Kruezkamp saved me and instilled the integrity I have now and have passed on to both my daughters and their sons. Spent 20 years in and was able to live or "work" in 26 countries. Met lifelong friends and am now retired again, young enough to enjoy family.

Response by SrA Alvin Cook made Nov 4 at 2021 8:05 PM

SrA Alvin Cook — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 20:05:06 -0400

The life long friendships and memories. The family tradition of military service

Response by SGT Paul Richardson made Nov 5 at 2021 3:50 PM

SGT Paul Richardson — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 15:50:15 -0400

for teaching me to be ready for any crap they world could throw at me, and to show me I needed others to make it happen.

Response by SMSgt Jeff Kyle made Nov 5 at 2021 10:26 PM

SMSgt Jeff Kyle — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 22:26:51 -0400

Thankful that I got to do what I loved to do, and get paid for it! 25 years of rotary wing maintenance and flying on them whenever the chance popped up.

Response by PVT Michele Bowman made Nov 6 at 2021 12:28 PM

PVT Michele Bowman — Sat, 06 Nov 2021 12:28:18 -0400

I am most thankful for my military life the discipline, the sticktuitiveness, commraderie, kept connections after basic & AIT, for the laughs, for the push to show me I can do it and for the courage and bravery to succeed even at a young age(graduated from high school and straight to military)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2021 6:11 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 18:11:12 -0500

I am grateful for many things due to my Army enlistment. Mainly, over my 20 years, was being exposed to so many people. Great leaders, Soldiers and useless ones as well. My first impression gauge is finely tuned to quickly identify what type of person they are. It's just about the only skill I honed that directly translates to civilian life.

Response by MSgt Mike P. made Nov 9 at 2021 11:12 PM

MSgt Mike P. — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 23:12:45 -0500

I am thankful for several "leaders", NCOICs (several come to mind), some bosses (1 exceptional Engineer) some fellow Noncoms. Without them to guide me, I hate to think about where I would have ended. Great words of encouragement, educational talks and demonstions of proper techniques! Teo have passed in the last year and I was unable to see them before they passed. So if you have similar experienced, let them know how much they meant to you!!!

Response by 1LT Rich Voss made Nov 10 at 2021 11:44 PM

1LT Rich Voss — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 23:44:53 -0500

Grateful to be typing this right now. Extremely grateful, that as a 19 year old draftee, I tried to "ace" every test the Army allowed me to take, which resulted in my becoming an Armor Officer before I turned 20. Grateful for all those that were part of my training from day #1. (And strangely, 2 of my DI's actually ended up serving under me in Germany..wow !) Grateful that a civilian car salesman outside Fort Knox introduced me to USAA...still a member nearly 55 years later. And especially grateful that many of my friends that served over the years are going to be able to celebrate Veteran's Day with me. If not in person, over the phone or 'net.

Response by 1SG James Hill, MSL, BSBA made Nov 11 at 2021 2:48 PM

1SG James Hill, MSL, BSBA — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 14:48:32 -0500

I'm thankful for the many Soldiers I've had the privilege of serving with over 27 years. I still have contact with many of them who I deployed with back in 1990/1991. Those bonds run deep and they know I got their 6.

Response by SP5 Bernard Cook made Nov 12 at 2021 5:16 PM

SP5 Bernard Cook — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 17:16:21 -0500

Travel, demanding 100% & learning to give it, lifelong friends, untold memories, being pd back many times over for my service.

Response by SGT Fred Flick made Nov 13 at 2021 10:49 PM

SGT Fred Flick — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 22:49:58 -0500

The experience and those served with

Response by MSgt Frank Askins made Nov 14 at 2021 8:40 AM

MSgt Frank Askins — Sun, 14 Nov 2021 08:40:08 -0500

There are too many things to list and certainly impossible to pick only one or two. The training, supervisors, commanders, co-workers, travel, and the list goes on and on. If I have to pick one, I think my military experience taught me to have confidence in myself, to believe that I really could do anything I put my mind to if I applied myself. It gave me the courage to tackle some tasks that seemed impossible but in the end were accomplished successfully.

Response by PO3 Danny Parham made Nov 17 at 2021 9:05 PM

PO3 Danny Parham — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:05:39 -0500

I'm most thankful for the experiences and the friends and I made during my time in the Navy. I am who I am because of this.

Response by SPC Adam Dinitz made Nov 17 at 2021 9:07 PM

SPC Adam Dinitz — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:07:18 -0500

I am thankful I was able to get a few degrees out of my time served.

Response by Cpl Jeff Ruffing made Nov 17 at 2021 9:15 PM

Cpl Jeff Ruffing — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:15:11 -0500

Wow! I have so much to be grateful and thankful for my military service. First, I learned that I am more than I believed myself to be. The confidence and ability it installed in me. It was already there, the military brought it out. I am thankful for all the countries I was stationed at. You’d have to be super wealthy to vacation in all those places. The experience I received, with locals and the men I worked with. The brotherhood I shared and still share. I look back and realized it was one of the best times in my life.

Response by MSG John Blythe made Nov 17 at 2021 9:18 PM

MSG John Blythe — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:18:41 -0500

All the good, the bad, and the ugly, I stood with in countless formations, on the back of a truck, laughing in a tent.

Response by SPC Justine Blankenbeckler made Nov 17 at 2021 9:27 PM

SPC Justine Blankenbeckler — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:27:37 -0500

I am most thankful for all the Friendships I have made, women's groups that I have gotten involved in, Volunteering, giving back. I Volunteer for Guitars for Vets, a Great program in the VA system. I went through it in 2013. A student is assigned to an instructor for 10 weeks, and meet once a week at the VA. You have a 45 minute lesson. After 19 weeks your class has a graduation and you receive a new guitar and the works. I am thankful for all my Healthcare. That is priceless.

Response by MGySgt Thomas Kromis made Nov 17 at 2021 9:38 PM

MGySgt Thomas Kromis — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:38:23 -0500

Life long friends, valued experiences, and pride of service. #SemperFi

Response by CW4 Ron Morgan made Nov 17 at 2021 9:39 PM

CW4 Ron Morgan — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:39:47 -0500

Being able to stay Stateside and complete 20+ years.

Response by 1stSgt Roger Rose made Nov 17 at 2021 9:40 PM

1stSgt Roger Rose — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:40:08 -0500

I am most thankful for the leadership training I received. For me learning to look at all the small details and thinking ahead have helped in my life. I have used the military loyalty in my Boy Scouting career of 44 years. I have been able to teach and demonstrate the keys of leadership to countless numbers of youth and adults. I am also thankful for the memories that I have.

Response by PO2 Jason Brooks made Nov 17 at 2021 9:40 PM

PO2 Jason Brooks — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:40:37 -0500

Ya know.... I hated the politics. I hated the "overlords". I hated the stupid BS...... however, I made amazing friends. I went to awe inspiring places. I got to do and see things that 85% of the people here will NEVER get to do. I give up just about anything for one more deployment, one more time on the flight line. One more time hanging out with my brothers and sisters. That, that right there is what I am thankful for. I cherish those memories forever!

Response by SFC Lynn Santosuosso made Nov 17 at 2021 9:45 PM

SFC Lynn Santosuosso — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:45:10 -0500

There are so many things to be thankful for, about my military experience…
It could easily be the opportunity to carry on the family name for service in combat since my grandfather emigrating from Italy and serving in WWI, my father in WWII, and myself in Desert Storm.
It could be the pride I feel for my nephew carrying that name through another generation.
Perhaps the opportunities the military provided me with leadership training, pushing me outside of my comfort zone.
There is also that instant camaraderie between veterans no matter what branch or age and the willingness to help one another.

I would have to say that my military experience provided for me the innate determination to never let anyone tell, for whatever reason, that I could not do something that I wanted to do! If I decided I was going to become a search and rescue Wilderness EMT, I did it!
When I found my dream house, I bought it!
When told I could never progress to the next GS level as I government civilian in the code I was in, I did it!
When I was called “too slow” of a runner, I trained and completed a marathon in under 5 hours.
When it was suggested that I would not be able drop and clear 30+ trees on my property, I just said, we’ll see. Done!
Army training, be all you can be, Army of One, whatever you want to call it. I have taken that “Can Do” attitude and pushed myself to be an ardent independent woman who will continue to be self-sufficient and a thorn in the nay-sayers side.
Knowing that you can teach yourself almost anything is a strength nobody can ever take away!

Response by SSG Pedro Sotelo made Nov 17 at 2021 9:47 PM

SSG Pedro Sotelo — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:47:08 -0500

The opportunity to serve!

Response by SGT Mark Kotajarvi made Nov 17 at 2021 9:52 PM

SGT Mark Kotajarvi — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:52:51 -0500

My time in Germany was the best of my 11 years in the United States Army. The Volksmarches and German food was great. The ability to travel all over Europe was one of the best opportunities. Having my Mother come over and spend time and travel was awesome. Getting to know and work with the German people was nice. One of my Aunts was born in Nuremberg and I got to spend time with her and her family in a house there. Really cool experience.

Response by PO2 Kathleen R made Nov 17 at 2021 9:58 PM

PO2 Kathleen R — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:58:19 -0500

The training, comradery, the GI bill

Response by CAPT Frank Nice made Nov 17 at 2021 10:01 PM

CAPT Frank Nice — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:01:54 -0500

Thankful that God gave me the privilege to serve Him and our country for His glory and for our country's glory. I was truly blessed by my service in so many ways.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 10:02 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:02:25 -0500

I’m thankful that I was able to serve with so many incredibly talented Soldiers-leaders and those growing to become leaders. Seeing so many succeed through their military careers and move onto their next chapters as they transition out of service has been an incredible experience.

Response by LTC Pauline Geraci made Nov 17 at 2021 10:03 PM

LTC Pauline Geraci — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:03:45 -0500

I am grateful for my military experience because it has taught me to be strong and to never give up!

Response by SSgt Brian Brakke made Nov 17 at 2021 10:06 PM

SSgt Brian Brakke — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:06:05 -0500

As a 20 year old young man facing legal issues, the Air Force taught me the errors of my ways, and helped me immensely. I am now an American Legion Officer in the state of Colorado holding a Post and District Position, serving on our Honor Guard, and helping to govern the building that we share with VFW Post 41 here in Loveland.

Response by PVT William Murphy made Nov 17 at 2021 10:06 PM

PVT William Murphy — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:06:45 -0500

The Army opened my eyes to the reality of the world around us.

Response by SCPO Paul Derrick made Nov 17 at 2021 10:10 PM

SCPO Paul Derrick — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:10:42 -0500

The lifelong friends I gained and the bond we have.

Response by SGT Tracey Wirth made Nov 17 at 2021 10:13 PM

SGT Tracey Wirth — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:13:29 -0500

I grew up in the same city I was born in, and hardly traveled at all prior to joining the military. Not only did the military help me grow into a mature adult, but I got to see parts of the world I wouldn’t have been able to see otherwise.

Response by SGT Arsenio Robinson made Nov 17 at 2021 10:13 PM

SGT Arsenio Robinson — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:13:49 -0500

I’m most thankful for having the opportunity to meet so many great people of different ages and cultural backgrounds. These men and women became my brothers and sisters and further more life long family. Everyone has a story and it’s a blessing and a honor to be able to share mine with likeminded people and not feel alienated.

Response by SMSgt Robin Wright made Nov 17 at 2021 10:14 PM

SMSgt Robin Wright — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:14:15 -0500

Hard to pick just one thing. I joined the Air Force on the spur of the moment. Best 26 years-long decision I ever made in my life. I grew up in the military and I guess the thing I'm most grateful for is the "family" I gained through all the life long friends I made. Doesn't get much better than that.

Response by Sgt David Branham made Nov 17 at 2021 10:15 PM

Sgt David Branham — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:15:56 -0500

Lucky enough to get an MOS that provided a 38 year career and still be young enough to make a career switch

Response by AN John Denekar made Nov 17 at 2021 10:16 PM

AN John Denekar — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:16:04 -0500

I am most thankful for the friends that I made while serving this great nation we all call home. If you served on the USS MIDWAY from 1986-1988 I miss you guys from V1. And the USS BELLEAU WOOD FROM 1988-1990 I miss you guys from V1 as well. Have a happy holiday season shipmates.

Response by Maj Frank Wolf made Nov 17 at 2021 10:18 PM

Maj Frank Wolf — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:18:13 -0500

I am thankful for all the great people I had the pleasure of serving with all along the way!

Response by SGT Shawn James Corter made Nov 17 at 2021 10:19 PM

SGT Shawn James Corter — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:19:45 -0500

The time I spent in mastering my trade, which solidified my career path. I originally came in, in 1996 as an Infantryman, but later changed my career path in 2000 to being a Logistician. 21 years after I went to being that, and I am retired from the Army, but am a Logistics Management Specialist at a GS-12 level and am going up from there. If it weren't for the military, I wouldn't be where I am right now.

Response by SGT Tim Tobin made Nov 17 at 2021 10:20 PM

SGT Tim Tobin — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:20:36 -0500

I came crom a modest family and after high school things didn't look great. I joined the army and started on a journey that defined the rest of my life. The army gave me a career and a great family

Response by SGT Lisa Mayne made Nov 17 at 2021 10:20 PM

SGT Lisa Mayne — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:20:36 -0500

Absolutely most thankful for my basic training buddy who shared her family with me back then and who I still treasure to this day.

Response by Sgt Petula Lloyd made Nov 17 at 2021 10:26 PM

Sgt Petula Lloyd — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:26:33 -0500

What am I thankful for about my military experience? Well, I think the one thing I am most thankful for is the discipline I learned. I was already a really particular person and liked things a certain way; that experience just added to that.

Response by Sgt Georgia Smith made Nov 17 at 2021 10:29 PM

Sgt Georgia Smith — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:29:03 -0500

My service provided me with a great learning experience as a medical services specialist…I was able to parlay that to a fully funded college education as an RN. With everything I learned in the USAF I skated through nursing school and the RN boards. My career in nursing gave me a lifestyle I could never have afforded otherwise.

Response by SGT David Jackson made Nov 17 at 2021 10:34 PM

SGT David Jackson — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:34:19 -0500

I went in a semi-engaged kid, and came out a "Dear John"d semi-adult, but with all body parts (except my back and ears) functioning. I kinda liked the feeling of growing into a giver, instead of the users we all start out as. (Been Married 43 years, now.)

Response by PO1 Andy Schrode made Nov 17 at 2021 10:34 PM

PO1 Andy Schrode — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:34:27 -0500

I am thankful for the chance that I was able to visit 30 different countries and 35 cities overseas compliments of the military I would do it again in a heartbeat

Response by CPT Earl George made Nov 17 at 2021 10:37 PM

CPT Earl George — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:37:24 -0500

In my time as a leader, I did not do anything stupid that resulted in a needless death.

Response by PO3 JOsephine Casale made Nov 17 at 2021 10:38 PM

PO3 JOsephine Casale — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:38:52 -0500

I am most thankful for being able to travel the world. Going into the military at age 18 I would have never thought I would live in Guam. I am also thankful for all the great people I met. I still keep in touch with some today. Traveling and meeting new people are two things I’m most thankful for!

Response by PO1 Robbie Bell made Nov 17 at 2021 10:39 PM

PO1 Robbie Bell — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:39:16 -0500

I learned to be punctual and responsible.

Response by SMSgt Dawn Morris made Nov 17 at 2021 10:39 PM

SMSgt Dawn Morris — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:39:41 -0500

I’m thankful for the opportunities that helped me grow up! The friendships, the travels, and serving this great nation will always be a part of me and who I am today.

Response by SPC Andrew Toombs made Nov 17 at 2021 10:43 PM

SPC Andrew Toombs — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:43:34 -0500

With all training that became partial/impartial thoughts to know when and if I should apply. Watch life for what it is, and realize that any and every part you further an engagement in will have a cost variable. Pay attention, be informed, think things through, ... sometimes the best engagement is letting evil destroy itself.

Response by SGT Ann Gardner made Nov 17 at 2021 10:43 PM

SGT Ann Gardner — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:43:53 -0500

Through the challenging training that pushed me further then I thought I was capable of going I was able to get through some difficult times.

Response by 2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 10:47 PM

2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:47:01 -0500

Definitely thankful for the friends I’ve made who have been so welcoming. Especially in the instances (and there’s many) where I am in a new place and do not know anyone yet.

Response by MSgt Shawn Sones made Nov 17 at 2021 10:47 PM

MSgt Shawn Sones — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:47:01 -0500

I am thankful for having the opportunity to serve our great nation, and I served with many wonderful and amazing people.

Response by CPL Dennis Blakely made Nov 17 at 2021 10:59 PM

CPL Dennis Blakely — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:59:49 -0500

Travel the chance to travel I never would have had otherwise

Response by PO1 David Bertram made Nov 17 at 2021 11:01 PM

PO1 David Bertram — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:01:08 -0500

Friends

Response by SrA Reinaldo Coll made Nov 17 at 2021 11:02 PM

SrA Reinaldo Coll — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:02:13 -0500

Air Force - Pay attention to the details!

Response by TSgt Michael Brown made Nov 17 at 2021 11:04 PM

TSgt Michael Brown — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:04:41 -0500

I'm thankful for all the memories I have and the great friends I made along the way, not to mention some pretty cool stories to tell grandkids soon (one on the way!)

Response by MSgt Ryan Uhing made Nov 17 at 2021 11:05 PM

MSgt Ryan Uhing — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:05:56 -0500

I'm most thankful for the hundreds of professionals I got to work with on a daily basis.
I'm also appreciative of the wide breadth of experiences I'd never have seen otherwise.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 11:08 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:08:24 -0500

When the Army paid me $20,000 for a year to get trained on a crane, to deploy to Iraq to help with the contractors building structures for their Iraq police and military.

Response by CPL Tracy Van Buren made Nov 17 at 2021 11:09 PM

CPL Tracy Van Buren — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:09:49 -0500

Happy Hump Day! I am so thankful for the discipline and courage I gained when I joined and served in Army. I was a very shy kid and timid. I recall my staff sergeant and drill sergeants in training broke me free from the ability to look people in the eyes when talking to someone and to be fearless. Over my time of service I learned to overcome many obstacles.

Response by SPC Rebecca Price made Nov 17 at 2021 11:12 PM

SPC Rebecca Price — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:12:01 -0500

LDRSHIP.

Response by BG Mike Bridges made Nov 17 at 2021 11:12 PM

BG Mike Bridges — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:12:53 -0500

The people I served with. Both military and civilian.

Response by SGT Darrell Doss made Nov 17 at 2021 11:15 PM

SGT Darrell Doss — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:15:40 -0500

The people I met, and the places I got to go to.

Response by Maj Sharon Bivins made Nov 17 at 2021 11:22 PM

Maj Sharon Bivins — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:22:36 -0500

Retirement income and Tricare.

Response by SFC Jim Hunter made Nov 17 at 2021 11:29 PM

SFC Jim Hunter — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:29:22 -0500

Several great experiences over the years. And of course, retirement pay. Two of our sons have chosen military careers. One son is a CW4 in the Army, and the other is a MSgt in the Air Force.

Response by FN Douglas Finney made Nov 17 at 2021 11:29 PM

FN Douglas Finney — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:29:51 -0500

Nice!

Response by Cpl Michael Blahak made Nov 17 at 2021 11:30 PM

Cpl Michael Blahak — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:30:49 -0500

Proud to have served Semper Fi

Response by SSgt Charles Dengler made Nov 17 at 2021 11:32 PM

SSgt Charles Dengler — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:32:33 -0500

Learning how to fight and survive. Not to fear any adversary. Be a part of American history and preserve our nation.

Response by PO1 Troy Baack made Nov 17 at 2021 11:36 PM

PO1 Troy Baack — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:36:43 -0500

It put me where I needed to be to meet my wife. 7 years, 2 dogs and 3 beautiful girls later and I can't imagine being anywhere else.

Response by Cpl James BartleBaugh made Nov 17 at 2021 11:37 PM

Cpl James BartleBaugh — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:37:21 -0500

All the lifelong Marine brothers and lessons along the way! Semper Fi

Response by AN Vuong Tran made Nov 17 at 2021 11:43 PM

AN Vuong Tran — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:43:45 -0500

Thankful for the friends that I've made that I can call one of my best buddies.

Response by AN Daniel C Begay made Nov 17 at 2021 11:48 PM

AN Daniel C Begay — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:48:39 -0500

The experience itself- finding self confidence, finding strength in self and a unique comradeship found only among military companions.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 11:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:50:02 -0500

There is nothing better than the group of people you serve with

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 11:50 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:50:22 -0500

Growing up from an 18 year old child to a leader of Men and Women. Learning to love my fellow soldiers as much as I love my own family. Knowing that people in uniform, no matter the uniform, would be willing to lay down their lives for their fellow Serviceperson. Being part of the tiny fraction of Americans who proudly serve. Knowing that I have brothers and sisters, from service members to Veterans, for the rest of my life. I love my 39 years in uniform, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Response by Sgt Eduardo Mendez made Nov 17 at 2021 11:51 PM

Sgt Eduardo Mendez — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:51:48 -0500

This Thanksgiving I'm most thankful for first and foremost the privilege of the opportunity to serve my county, the ability to apply to the United States Marine Corps and earn the Titile of United States Marine. I'm a 3rd Generation US Citizen, my grandfather born in El Paso, Texas with a 4th Grade Education, my mother Graduate from Burbank Senior High School and I, Chapman University Graduate, Serving this great Representative Democracy has been a vocation in my family Great Uncles in WWII, my mother's brothers in Korea and Vietnam, my own sister Michelle served peacetime in the Air Force at Sheppard AFT, in Texas, so service to this Great Nation is woven in our Ethos and Character where service above one's self is a worthwhile and noble endeavor. Now how gratefulness and the actual Verb of "Thanks-Giving" the act of giving thanks is something that has been created through the crucible of life in my case, raised very poor on welfare and with very little hope leaving poverty the Service afforded my sister and I the springboard into the middle class. Economic stability albeit a great place to be is not catalyst enough to truly understand the necessity to give Thanks, this comes from humility the ability to be humble. To compare, to understand to asimilate to appreciate, to not take for granted, to sympathize and empathize with others, to be introduced to other cultures, creeds, and diversity, as variety is the spice of life it can be highlighted in the interactions we have with those different than ourselves. This is the magic which allows true understanding of our place in the greater panorama called the World and Life in general. I remember my first "Pump" this is what Marines and Sailors refer to as a West-Pac or Deployment aboard Ship or Land Based abroad. I was a young Lance Corporal serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron - 166 Composite as the Squadron's Unit Diary Clerk (The Marine that Input's Pay and Allowances in the Navy's system to pay the Marines in the Squadron) a Military Occupational Specialty that is now obsolete, any how not to stray, I saw the world, our ports of call included, Australia, Kenya, Indonesia, The Philippine Islands, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Guam, Japan, Korea as well as the Small Island of Iwo Jima and Mount Surabachi, our Amphibious Ready Group was given the gift and privilege of being able to climb the iconic hill and take into consideration that which so many Marines that came before us endured. That which can be learned sitting on desk and chalk board can only truly be appreciated in the application of practicality. That being said and in closing The Service showed me that my world is not everyone else's universe and that it is the sum of the parts that can truly create the greater whole. I'm thankful to the Service for showing me how to be humble, to understand others, and appreciate that which is not common to me, I'm thankful for the opportunity to be able to say thank you to My Higher Power which happens to be The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, I'm grateful to the service for allowing this poor kid to learn in the greatest classroom called life and the world as we know, I'm forever grateful to this Nation for the Freedoms which most take for granted but I reflect on daily, as tears of joy serenated my cheeks during the Side Boys salute to the Battleship USS Arizona returning from my first pump my eye captured "Old Glory" furling in the wind, on Waikiki I then truly came to fully appreciate that I served the Greatest Country on the Face of this Green Earth. That humbly presented to this forum is what and how I learned to be Grateful for.

Response by AN Ron Wright made Nov 17 at 2021 11:54 PM

AN Ron Wright — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:54:40 -0500

i am thankful mostly for being a VETERAN
for gaining a Brotherhood and a family

Response by SSgt Donald Mcavoy made Nov 17 at 2021 11:55 PM

SSgt Donald Mcavoy — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:55:35 -0500

I am thankful that I was taught a great skill (electronics) that I used to make a good living afterwards. Also thankful for the life lessons

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 11:56 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:56:58 -0500

Learning how different people were, from those I worked with to those I met in other countries. And Travel!! 87 countries in 28 years.

Response by PO3 Lily Robertson made Nov 17 at 2021 11:58 PM

PO3 Lily Robertson — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:58:09 -0500

I'm thankful that my actions and voice, along with the actions and voices of countless other women, finally put us on ships. In my time, we weren't allowed. I was once told that too many senators had daughters in the Navy for it to ever happen because they'd be put in harm's way. I went to every anti-discrimination briefing and stood up when they asked if there were any questions and asked when we'd be allowed on ships. They actually got so tired of me that they started assigning me guard duty every time there was an anti-discrimination briefing. CTs almost never stand guard duty after A school. When that happened, i started writing letters. Today women serve side by side with men on US Navy vessels and i'm proud of every one of them. For helping, in my small way, to change this, and for the fact that the Navy finally listened to us, i am thankful.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 12:00 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:00:54 -0500

As a Afghanistan veteran I have learned to keep moving and get the job done it has helped me in my daily life and helped me be a better father and husband

Response by SA Sacheen Weston made Nov 18 at 2021 12:03 AM

SA Sacheen Weston — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:03:46 -0500

I learned to wear my big girl panties. I don't whine about what life has thrown (and still throws) at me. Many people throughout my life have commented about how 'strong' I am. I don't really think that's it. I believe I just don't give up regardless of whether the urge is instinctively there. The military taught me that. Just grit your teeth and bear it.

Response by SP5 Jonathan Ugalde made Nov 18 at 2021 12:07 AM

SP5 Jonathan Ugalde — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:07:26 -0500

I'm very thankful for the opportunity to spend time with my family during the holidays.

Response by CPL Desmond Hillsman made Nov 18 at 2021 12:18 AM

CPL Desmond Hillsman — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:18:08 -0500

I am most thankful for the experience and brotherhood that being in the military taught me. I went into the military looking for somewhere to belong and to be a part of a team, which turned to family. The military taught me alot of discipline and gave me lasting memories with my military family. I'm just thankful for the opportunity that I was given to be a part of the Army military family and thankful for 2-7 cav bravo company.

Response by CPT Derry Gallagher made Nov 18 at 2021 12:19 AM

CPT Derry Gallagher — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:19:00 -0500

Professional, dedicated associate's.

Response by SPC Don Stevens made Nov 18 at 2021 12:25 AM

SPC Don Stevens — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:25:06 -0500

Coming back alive!!!!!!

Response by SPC David Dupey made Nov 18 at 2021 12:29 AM

SPC David Dupey — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:29:31 -0500

Im thankful for the ability to adjust to challenges and adapted to charge

Response by SGT Kirk Bonanny made Nov 18 at 2021 12:40 AM

SGT Kirk Bonanny — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:40:46 -0500

I joined at a time in my life when I could have wound up on the wrong path. I got separated from the guys I grew up with just before the majority of my friends (a/ the time) discovered and became addicted to drugs.
I doubt that I would have ever tried drugs, but being away at that time was a blessing for me.

Response by MAJ Thomas Person made Nov 18 at 2021 12:56 AM

MAJ Thomas Person — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 00:56:47 -0500

I’m grateful for those I suffered with during times of great fear and their professionalism that made us make shit happen.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 1:17 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 01:17:21 -0500

I am grateful for the friends I made over the years. The experience, training, and the chance to serve the greatest Army in the world. I am also grateful for the opportunity to serve the country that has given me and my family to better our lives!

Response by MSgt Michael Cronin made Nov 18 at 2021 1:19 AM

MSgt Michael Cronin — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 01:19:16 -0500

It gave me stability and away from a high risk lifestyle. I was able to travel the world and the states. It also gave me a career path that I easily jumped into as a civilian

Response by PO3 Charles Guerra made Nov 18 at 2021 1:26 AM

PO3 Charles Guerra — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 01:26:23 -0500

I am thankful to the military for helping me become a team player, disciplined, self sufficient. I am proud to have served my country. C. Guerra.

Response by SGT Michael Brand made Nov 18 at 2021 1:27 AM

SGT Michael Brand — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 01:27:10 -0500

Being able to save up enough money via the VEAP so that I could get my B.A. & M.A. after I left the military.

Response by PO1 Christopher Griffiths made Nov 18 at 2021 1:41 AM

PO1 Christopher Griffiths — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 01:41:35 -0500

The friends I've made.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 2:00 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:00:16 -0500

I love the family I'm apart of!

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 2:00 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:00:54 -0500

The friends I have made and places I have been to!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 2:09 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:09:07 -0500

I am most thankful for the opportunities and doors the military has given me for my career.

Response by SSgt Lance Snead made Nov 18 at 2021 2:09 AM

SSgt Lance Snead — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:09:38 -0500

My First year in the USAF I was stationed at Osan AB Korea as a 19 year kid, who didn't have a clue what the world was really like. I grew up in a very small community in rural Virginia. I was naïve and filled with wonder and hope but I would never imagine the things I have experienced since I joined the USAF. The original plans for myself were never fulfilled but a series of events led me to the life I have. While in Korea I was squadron Airman of the month as a reward I was allowed to take part in the Worst Movie made during the 80's, "Inchon" didn't do well at the Box office but I am thrilled to say I took part in the movie as a Marine and a War Correspondent. I worked with Sir Laurence Olivier, David Janssen, Jacqueline Bisset, Rex Reed and several others.
Unbeknownst to me at the time; I got the performing bug and in 1991 I started my career as Sir Lantz- Magician and Master Balloon Artist. I am extremely thankful that the Military provided the avenue to a way of life I never imagined. I have had the most incredible but challenging life, performing at over 7800 events for some of the most notable people of the USA. The Military turned my life into a fantasy that came true.

Response by CDR Jim M. made Nov 18 at 2021 2:10 AM

CDR Jim M. — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:10:50 -0500

My Marine service taught me to be a leader whose first concern is the welfare of those he leads. The Navy taught me to be an adept manager and planner for success. Twenty years of service gave me a cadre of friends world wide and Tricare for life that saves me major costs for health care. Between Medicare and Tricare I no longer harbor concerns of bankrupting myself should my spouse or I need major surgery or other long term health care.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 2:12 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:12:37 -0500

I am most thankful for the self confidence and leadership skills I learned and core values. It really reshaped me and brought forward a better person. This has helped me to achieve number 1 on the iTunes charts and this has helped me run a successful business. I thank the military for helping to build me back a bit better.

Response by TSgt David Campbell made Nov 18 at 2021 2:50 AM

TSgt David Campbell — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:50:15 -0500

The many wonderful people I served with and lifelong friends I have from my service. Also living in and embracing foreign cultures! Many memories that always bring a smile to my heart!

Response by CPL Dennis Wurster made Nov 18 at 2021 2:53 AM

CPL Dennis Wurster — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:53:51 -0500

I'm happy I didn't die overseas. I learned to be stealthy and it has helped me with a lot of things in life. I also became a nurse because how much people really need help. It is also what I needed to help forget about the other parts and make a difference all the time.

Response by PO2 David Harlow made Nov 18 at 2021 3:57 AM

PO2 David Harlow — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 03:57:19 -0500

For being able to go places in the world I would have no other way of getting to, and being able to share those experiences with some really good people. I'm still in contact with quite a few of my shipmates after being out of the service for 15 years.

Response by Sgt Robert Williams made Nov 18 at 2021 3:58 AM

Sgt Robert Williams — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 03:58:38 -0500

The opportunity to be a part of something nessasary and gainful in it's diverse anvenues of opportunities. simply put, there is a big world beyond our Great and powerful boarders.

Response by PV2 Charles Jackson made Nov 18 at 2021 4:14 AM

PV2 Charles Jackson — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:14:47 -0500

All the Great Brothers and Sisters I acquired while learning to be a leader and pillar of Society.

Response by LCpl Ron A made Nov 18 at 2021 4:32 AM

LCpl Ron A — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:32:54 -0500

My military experience opened my eyes & instilled a drive within me. I just turned 18, naive to real life. The military made me a better man by changing my racial impressions developed from my home environment, making me a team player in every aspect. In the military I was judged by my performance and not my ethnicity & The drive instilled in me caused me to put forth 100% in everything I took part in. Unfortunately those characteristics I learned in the military didn’t mean much in the civilian world. Total night & day. I should have stayed in and made a career in the military.

Response by FN Dan Tressler, II made Nov 18 at 2021 4:37 AM

FN Dan Tressler, II — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:37:46 -0500

Strength. Strength of growth, character, loyalty, commitment, integrity, forgiveness, gratitude, patience, and love. I was raised right but the military challenged my convictions and reinforced my values in ways only it could making me into a person beyond reproach by civilians. Injured twice in the line of duty, my strengths demanded I persevere. In life, that strength took me where I needed to go and allowed others to trust in me. In retirement due to my line of duty injuries, I remain grateful for what I have, what I was able to accomplish in the military, in civilian life and in my personal life. Those who ran away (yes, an ugly divorce, too...) were weak but still provided learning opportunities. I remain strong in my values, stronger than those around me because of my military experience.

Response by SrA Larry Gray made Nov 18 at 2021 4:38 AM

SrA Larry Gray — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:38:57 -0500

Being stationed at McChord AFB and deploying to Diego Garcia. Two amazing locations.

Response by SGT Patricia Dingle made Nov 18 at 2021 4:40 AM

SGT Patricia Dingle — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:40:33 -0500

I am the most thankful for the opportunity to (learn to) lead--Pre-commission course, correspondence courses, German Headstart, and PLDC.

Response by PV2 Elizabeth Burgess made Nov 18 at 2021 4:42 AM

PV2 Elizabeth Burgess — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:42:49 -0500

I would not be here to be thankful for anything without the care I received from the medical staff at Dewitt Army Hospital, Ft. Belvoir VA. Without the ongoing care I’ve had access to through the years from VA healthcare, I would not have the chance to express my gratitude this Thanksgiving. I am indebted to the medical staff who serve our active military and veterans, such as myself. Thank you!

Response by SP5 Paul Jordan made Nov 18 at 2021 4:53 AM

SP5 Paul Jordan — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:53:51 -0500

For all the great memories and the brothers I gained in my life

Response by PV2 Elizabeth Burgess made Nov 18 at 2021 4:55 AM

PV2 Elizabeth Burgess — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:55:17 -0500

Without the medical care I received at DeWitt Army Hospital in Ft. Belvoir VA, I wouldn’t be here to express gratitude this Thanksgiving. The ongoing care from VA since discharge allows me to enjoy life in good health to this day. Every holiday season I’ve enjoyed has been a result of the excellent medical care I received while serving and over the years since. Thank you!

Response by SFC Perry Seals made Nov 18 at 2021 5:25 AM

SFC Perry Seals — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:25:23 -0500

As a young high school jock who had the ability to make good grades without studying I was living the life. I was above all until, my Junior year and all my buddies were getting scholarship offers and I wasn't. So one day the recruiter came to the school to adminiser the ASVAB, me and several others decided to take it because we didn't want to go to class. Needless to say I scored high and over the next several months was contacted by th Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. I felt that the Air Force was too soft for me, the Marines too hard and I didn't like the bell bottled uniform of the Navy. But what really sold me on the Army was they offered this little country boy a $10k bonus and I was like hell yeah I will have 10 grand with no taxes or nothing because I work for the government and they don't tax themselves. Needless to say that was wrong but the decision to join the Early Entry Program was decided. Near the end of my Senior year I was getting scholarship offers for sports and academics and of course had the big head. I asked my recriter could I back out and he said I was committed (a lie I learned later). When I went to MEPS for my exams I told them I smoke weed everyday when asked about drug usage. They told me don't worry they will change that.

Needless to say the journey I had in the military was priceless. I learned discipline and structure that I still miss some 15 years out. I feel it saved my life and for that I am thankful.

Response by SPC Brett Love made Nov 18 at 2021 5:26 AM

SPC Brett Love — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:26:35 -0500

I’m thankful girvtgr good friends I made in the army. .

Response by SFC Wilda Smith made Nov 18 at 2021 5:33 AM

SFC Wilda Smith — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:33:43 -0500

I am most grateful for the camaraderie and sustaining bonds of fellow service members. The connections if we allow them make all of us stronger and move us forward.

Response by SGT Paz Martinez made Nov 18 at 2021 5:37 AM

SGT Paz Martinez — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:37:28 -0500

I am thankful that the military gave me a home when was homeless and provided me direction and most of all giving me a purpose to be a better person each and ever day of my life!

Response by SPC Sharon Wolfe made Nov 18 at 2021 5:37 AM

SPC Sharon Wolfe — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:37:32 -0500

The opportunity to challenge myself and see that I was very strong. I went into the Army right after 9/11. I was 33, already had two young children, and thought of myself as "not military" type of person. Due to my husband and his sister, I knew everything that was going to happen when getting to BASIC. But it was the physical challenges that I succeeded at that I am thankful for. I became physically and mentally stronger. Thankful for that, and that I was able to survive and return home.

Response by 1LT Jose Alvelo made Nov 18 at 2021 5:38 AM

1LT Jose Alvelo — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:38:11 -0500

I am thankful for the opportunity to have made a contribution, however small, to the security of my country and for the amazing people I got to share this honor with.

Response by TSgt Ken Richter made Nov 18 at 2021 5:40 AM

TSgt Ken Richter — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:40:50 -0500

I'm just proud to be a patriot and to serve to protect the number one nation in the world. There may currently be the most incompetent resident show monkey in the white house but that doesn't define what our forefathers have created in this great nation.
I'm so thankful that I was literally part of the force that protected our nation to make us free. Thank God for America. The land of the free.

Response by PO2 Rebecca Sherman made Nov 18 at 2021 5:43 AM

PO2 Rebecca Sherman — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:43:29 -0500

The people I met along the way, they have had such a big impact in my life.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 5:43 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:43:56 -0500

Some things that I am most grateful for with the a military experience. 1 The discipline, being a part of a structured organization and just knowing that every member of the team is important. Also to hold yourself to a higher standard. Putting on a uniform is a great honor. 2 putting the welfare of others above your own.

Response by SFC Scott Higgins made Nov 18 at 2021 5:54 AM

SFC Scott Higgins — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:54:42 -0500

The people with whom I served, and those that continue to do so. They gave up comfort, left loved ones at home, helped their brothers and sisters in arms to succeed in not the most pleasant circumstances. Every November I get to see our Nation's respect for all of them. I am proud to stand with them.

Response by AA Loreen Silvarahawk made Nov 18 at 2021 6:02 AM

AA Loreen Silvarahawk — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:02:33 -0500

After the experience of Boot Camp, school and other issues --- I became quite "thick skinned." In life, many things are thrown at you --- good and bad --- and my military experiences prepared me to deal with everything. I faced the problem, solved it to the best of my ability and moved on, Military life in the 60's was rough for all women.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 6:07 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:07:03 -0500

The family I've made with the people who served with me. It's a bond that can never be broken. Also the ability to adapt and overcome anything.

Response by SP5 Bill Coburn made Nov 18 at 2021 6:09 AM

SP5 Bill Coburn — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:09:15 -0500

After four years of college with little sense of purpose, enlisting to beat the draft at the heighth of the Vietnam conflict gave me a sense of direction, much-needed discipline and the desire to set and achieve goals.

Response by SFC W. Stewart made Nov 18 at 2021 6:09 AM

SFC W. Stewart — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:09:18 -0500

Honestly, The friends and family I have made over the years that have helped me become a better person.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 6:12 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:12:58 -0500

I’m thankful for the guidance it gave me to be the person I am today.

Response by PO2 John Schneider made Nov 18 at 2021 6:17 AM

PO2 John Schneider — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:17:32 -0500

I am most thankful for many things. But, the friends I made during my 21 years. I am still friends with many of them today. The opportunity to learn many things also. The retirement check every month.

Response by PO2 John Schneider made Nov 18 at 2021 6:20 AM

PO2 John Schneider — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:20:31 -0500

I am mostly thankful for the great life long friends I met during my 20 years. Many of whom I am still very close to today. The traveling I did to many different countries. Meeting different people from all over the world.

Response by SPC Lincoln Tiffin made Nov 18 at 2021 6:48 AM

SPC Lincoln Tiffin — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:48:58 -0500

I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve my country. I enlisted in 1992, there was a lot going on then with the Rodney King beating and the Pershing Gulf War. I was an MP and learned how to handle myself when dealing with extreme situations. I'm a disabled Veteran and a 2 time Head and Neck cancer survivor.

Response by Sgt William Meiers made Nov 18 at 2021 6:49 AM

Sgt William Meiers — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:49:46 -0500

The discipline and structure it gave me. I needed it at that time in my life. I would not be where I am today with out it. If it were not for the United States Marine Corps, i would be a totally different person. Maybe not even a person I like to be honest. I am so very thankful I did what others said I could not, and became a United States Marine!! Semper Fi, and I am now thankful for all those that followed. They give us the ability to live life they way we want.

Response by SGT John Gideon made Nov 18 at 2021 6:49 AM

SGT John Gideon — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:49:47 -0500

The Army taught me leadership skills and a positive “can do” attitude that has helped me tremendously through out my life and civilian career. Without that military experience I would not be where I am today..

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 6:53 AM

CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 06:53:31 -0500

I am thankful for all my brothers and sisters I served with, that reached out to comfort me after the death of my wife in January. The friends you meet along the way are there when you really need their support. Feeling blessed.

Response by CPT Franklin Schall made Nov 18 at 2021 7:05 AM

CPT Franklin Schall — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:05:03 -0500

The great men and women I served with who despite racial, religious political and regional differences were one Army family. We had each others backs and I'll never forget them.

Response by TSgt William Albritton made Nov 18 at 2021 7:05 AM

TSgt William Albritton — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:05:29 -0500

I got to see how people live and work in other countries of the world. I even married a woman from the Philippines.Vietnam was a real eye-opener for me

Response by SGT Gregory Demetreon made Nov 18 at 2021 7:10 AM

SGT Gregory Demetreon — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:10:25 -0500

I had just married and that came with a "new to me" 6 yr old. The military was the avenue that allowed me to properly care for my new family. The experience forced me to grow up,go to college and buy a home. Great way to jump start my new role as a provider.

Response by SFC Frank Rodriguez made Nov 18 at 2021 7:12 AM

SFC Frank Rodriguez — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:12:06 -0500

The Army saved my life ! I joined at 19 and served for 21 years. I just recently moved back to my home town and learned the fait of my two best friends I used to hang out with. One died in a police high speed stolen motorcycle pursuit and the other is in prison for life. He was the getaway driver for a home robbery that ended up with the home owner dead ! There is no doubt in my mind that I would've wound up as one of them if not for the Army. Thank you God.

Response by PO3 Margie Sleeper made Nov 18 at 2021 7:16 AM

PO3 Margie Sleeper — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:16:56 -0500

Definitely the lifelong friends that I made! We all live across the country but still get together once a year.

Response by SGT Mark Bishop made Nov 18 at 2021 7:20 AM

SGT Mark Bishop — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:20:53 -0500

I am most thankful for all the great friends and memories I made with them while in service to this badass country!

Response by SSgt Alejandra Sanchez made Nov 18 at 2021 7:22 AM

SSgt Alejandra Sanchez — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:22:50 -0500

There are many things I am thankful for and that the Marine Corps either gave or taught me. But the thing I am most thankful for is the family I gain through my military experience. Some of my closest friends are marines. Even after my service, they are always there for me.

Response by CDR Susan Sablan made Nov 18 at 2021 7:45 AM

CDR Susan Sablan — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:45:12 -0500

I am grateful for ell of the outstanding leaders I encountered, and for all of the Sailors who supported me while I was a leader!

Response by SFC Jayne Garner made Nov 18 at 2021 7:47 AM

SFC Jayne Garner — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:47:37 -0500

I'm grateful for the discipline the military taught me and for the great experiences that each change of station brought me. I am also grateful for the comrades I met and fought with.

Response by 1SG David Lopez made Nov 18 at 2021 7:50 AM

1SG David Lopez — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:50:17 -0500

Serving my country was an honor. The friends I made are priceless, we are a Band of Brothers. I am most thankful for that.

Response by TSgt Jim Kent made Nov 18 at 2021 7:51 AM

TSgt Jim Kent — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:51:28 -0500

Learning organizational and leadership skills and the lifelong friends I made!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 7:59 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:59:52 -0500

As a very sheltered young 22 yr old who got married and had a baby at 17, I was looking for a way out of a small country town in NC to give my daughter a better life with more opportunities! The Army provided me that way and all the opportunities and I'm so very grateful! Also grateful for all the wonderful people I have encountered and the positive impacts they have had in my life! God is Grace, God is Good!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 8:05 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:05:16 -0500

I learned responsibility and skills that I use almost every day in my civilian life.

Response by SSgt Shawn Levis made Nov 18 at 2021 8:07 AM

SSgt Shawn Levis — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:07:52 -0500

I’m thankful for the chance to serve and grow into a professional person. That was the military’s doing along with a few great supervisors. I’ll always appreciate and be thankful for the time I was given in the good ole Air Force.

Response by MAJ Allan Harrelson made Nov 18 at 2021 8:08 AM

MAJ Allan Harrelson — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:08:38 -0500

As a 17 year old kid going into the army, I would say that the feeling of security, the feeling of having a home, place to sleep, food to eat..,knowing that those fellow soldiers around me had my back during good times and bad, the honor of serving my country.

Then the "goodies" such as a paid education, pension for life.., all made my military experience a truly thankful event in my life.

Response by TSgt Ronald Foreback made Nov 18 at 2021 8:08 AM

TSgt Ronald Foreback — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:08:43 -0500

Meeting my wife.
All of the great people I worked with and making lifelong friends.
The camaraderie amongst those that serve is unparalleled.

Response by SPC Michael Langford made Nov 18 at 2021 8:09 AM

SPC Michael Langford — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:09:14 -0500

I'd have to say the ability to just get stuff done. Is it fun? No. Is it something you want to do? No. Is it your job? Yes. So just do it. Get it done. Move on to the next task.

Response by Sgt Robert Green made Nov 18 at 2021 8:15 AM

Sgt Robert Green — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:15:15 -0500

I am thankful for the life experience and knowledge gained during my time in the military. Most importantly, I am thankful for my brothers that were forged in blood, sweat, and tears! God bless them all!!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 8:16 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:16:18 -0500

I left home a kid just before Desert Storm, 27 years later I retired a grown man. Throughout my time in the military I have enjoyed an uncountable amount of great moment. What I am most thankful for are my family and the life long friendships that I have made, without them I’m certain my time on would have been a lot shorter.

Response by SGT Kevin Kearns made Nov 18 at 2021 8:24 AM

SGT Kevin Kearns — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:24:20 -0500

Many people I met and became life long friends

Response by Cpl James Wright made Nov 18 at 2021 8:27 AM

Cpl James Wright — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:27:18 -0500

I am most thankful for what the military had done to put my life in the right direction. It has allowed more opportunities for my career and taught me how to appreciate what matters most.

Response by MSG Charles Kaiser made Nov 18 at 2021 8:31 AM

MSG Charles Kaiser — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:31:14 -0500

I am most thankful for my experiences Dad passed away when i was 4 i grew up pour . I struggled in School the Day i turned 17 i was on a bus going to get sworn in. Never had a role model to look up to just family . I mede the best of it 30 years later I retired MSG C C Kaiser all of my friend from high school are dead except One who is not i good health . the Army saved my life .

Response by PO1 Michael Brouty made Nov 18 at 2021 8:32 AM

PO1 Michael Brouty — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:32:31 -0500

Travel 15 countries...Go Navy !

Response by PO1 Michael Brouty made Nov 18 at 2021 8:33 AM

PO1 Michael Brouty — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:33:17 -0500

Travel to 15 countries over the years. Go Navy !

Response by SGT Mark Richardson Sr. made Nov 18 at 2021 8:34 AM

SGT Mark Richardson Sr. — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:34:55 -0500

Being able to Serve my Country Honorabley .

Response by PO2 Gerald Oliver made Nov 18 at 2021 8:35 AM

PO2 Gerald Oliver — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:35:03 -0500

Thankful for the memories and pride in being a part of the crew of USS Archerfish AGSS31. A submarine that made history in WW2 and continued until she now rests on the ocean floor. Some three hundred bachelor sailors that measured the worlds oceans in the 1960's I had the opportunity to join. Those days I'm thankful to have as experiences that last a lifetime with pride in what we accomplished.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 8:38 AM

MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:38:24 -0500

The Marine Corps saves a lot of people and it saved me. That and comraderie

Response by PO2 Rex Beishline made Nov 18 at 2021 8:42 AM

PO2 Rex Beishline — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:42:20 -0500

I am most thankful for learning the discipline needed to be a part of a great team-then and now, the knowledge gained from being a Corpsman has been helpful to me during my whole life, and the rewards of helping many during not only war in Viet Nam, but even while stateside working in hospital emergency , ICU's and wards.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 8:45 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:45:20 -0500

I am the most thankful firstly for the gift of life and above all for our leaders who train and support their soldiers in all aspects of their life , such as , Military life , personnal life and spiritual life. Always one team one fight at the beginning and at the end of each day. We love our Army.

Response by PO3 Eddie Roberts made Nov 18 at 2021 8:47 AM

PO3 Eddie Roberts — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:47:33 -0500

What I’m most thankful for…. Obviously the other great and patriotic young men and women that all elected to serve. We all signed up to serve our country and serve a higher purpose. I’m thankful for the experience of getting to see other parts of the world. Which only helped me appreciate our country even more. Most Americans have no idea of the living conditions or stricter rules and laws that govern other countries. I later was thankful that my service helped me grow up. Taught me respect, work ethic, to stand for what’s right regardless of the consequences.

Response by PO3 Steven Asman made Nov 18 at 2021 8:52 AM

PO3 Steven Asman — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:52:32 -0500

I was 18 yr in the Nay i had to grow up fast but i got the chance to see some amazing places. I learned how to handle and to adapt to any situations that i encountered which made me a better person. Some of the Skills that i was taught in the Military i still use today but the biggest experience is the commodity just like what we have here on Rally Point! The Brothers( during my time it was and all male Navy sorry ladies ) were amazing that I have met.

Response by PO2 Bonnie Page made Nov 18 at 2021 8:52 AM

PO2 Bonnie Page — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:52:35 -0500

I am most thankful for mentoring that I received from some of my senior leadership. I have carried those lessons with me in my work and personal life - particularly the importance of volunteering your time to help others.

Response by SFC Renee Butts made Nov 18 at 2021 8:53 AM

SFC Renee Butts — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:53:46 -0500

I'm a single parent of 3 who has given the Army 20 years of service. I was that parent who gave my children only 2 options BOOKS & BOOTS and by the grace of GOD today all three have college degrees. Two are enlisted one is an officer, that is what I'm most grateful for to be alive today to witness their success and growth in their Military careers and productive civilian lives.

Response by SrA Derrek Cherry made Nov 18 at 2021 8:57 AM

SrA Derrek Cherry — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:57:03 -0500

I'm thankful from my military service the opportunity I had to serve in Iraq. The experiences I achieved working with diverse individuals in a team. I'm also very thankful for the skills and knowledge that I gained and use to this day. I was blessed with very good Commanders and a thriving base to call home (Shaw AFB)!

Response by SSG Bruce Fontaine made Nov 18 at 2021 9:01 AM

SSG Bruce Fontaine — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:01:19 -0500

What I thought would be a 4-year stint to serve our country and get job training turned into a 20-year career. So thankful for all the experiences and benefits.

Response by SSgt Ginnefer Pherigo made Nov 18 at 2021 9:01 AM

SSgt Ginnefer Pherigo — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:01:31 -0500

I am thankful for the experiences I have had and the people that I have met. I met my husband at my first duty station (Army) and I would not be where I am today without the military. I missed it so much I went into the Air Force after getting out of the army 2 years later.

Response by Cpl Timothy Martin made Nov 18 at 2021 9:02 AM

Cpl Timothy Martin — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:02:17 -0500

I was in a rough spot as a very young kid. The military gave me a strong sense of purpose and belonging. The ability to be part 9f something bigger than myself. I have everything I have now because of my military service. I am forever grateful for my time spent in.

Response by Sgt Luke Gayle made Nov 18 at 2021 9:07 AM

Sgt Luke Gayle — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:07:07 -0500

The experience, schooling, traveling as well as meeting new people

Response by PO3 Nicholas Jones made Nov 18 at 2021 9:09 AM

PO3 Nicholas Jones — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:09:37 -0500

I’m grateful for all that I did in the military. Two deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan you learn and grow from deployment . You learn to deal with higher stressors and keep on going .

Response by SPC Robert Birk made Nov 18 at 2021 9:12 AM

SPC Robert Birk — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:12:19 -0500

My duty station was in Tokyo & I was able to teach English & western customs at Keio University. As a teacher I had travel discounts & was able to see all of Japan meeting lots of wonderful people along the way. I kept contact with many of my students over the years and some of them came to visit me at my home. A wonderful experience thanks to the Military!

Response by Sgt Terry Robinson made Nov 18 at 2021 9:15 AM

Sgt Terry Robinson — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:15:36 -0500

That it was over; and I did my part for my country.

Response by MSG Fred Heffernan made Nov 18 at 2021 9:15 AM

MSG Fred Heffernan — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:15:50 -0500

Connecting songs from the 1960s to memories of friends and experiences in the Army as a kid. The smoky noisy PXs in the morning having coffee and donuts

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 9:16 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:16:35 -0500

I am most thankful for all the friends who became family during my military experience. There’s something to be said about the bond we have and the memories that we share.

Response by Col Bob “Goober” Gabor made Nov 18 at 2021 9:19 AM

Col Bob “Goober” Gabor — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:19:03 -0500

I’m most thankful for the people. Both service member and spouse, and good and bad. It was the people that made the bad assignments pass in the blink of an eye, and the cherry assignments a lifelong memory. Even the “bad” taught you how you never wanted to conduct yourself or treat people around you. It’s the people/lifelong friends I will remember and cherish.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 9:20 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:20:00 -0500

I’m most thankful for the discipline the military has taught me from joining as a 17 year old kid to who I am now. I’m thankful the for the “family” the military has brought into my life. I’m thankful for the strength the military has given me to withstand any situation I am faced with.

Response by Sgt Michael Mazza made Nov 18 at 2021 9:22 AM

Sgt Michael Mazza — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:22:17 -0500

The GI Bill!!!! As a blue collar child college was a dream and my service from 1975 to 1979 gave me the opportunity to attend college, get a degree and make my parents so proud.

Response by PO3 Mark Sartor made Nov 18 at 2021 9:26 AM

PO3 Mark Sartor — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:26:51 -0500

I hate to say that I am grateful for war, but, without the Vietnam war, I probably would never had the chance to experience and benefit from my stint in the NAVY. I joined the Navy just after getting a draft notice, and boot camp was certainly a wake up call to a land locked kid from an industrial town. Beside the amazing experience of being on Ships, seeing the four corners of America, and being part of the team on the ship, I met some great friends, and learned so many living skills and habits that I still maintain to this day.

I would never have thought that my time in the Navy would be the most significant time in my life, but I t was. I still consider other events as Before the Navy or After the Navy. Wish I could have stayed in long enough to retire, but at the time, I felt it was best for me to leave.

Response by SGT David Nichter made Nov 18 at 2021 9:29 AM

SGT David Nichter — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:29:21 -0500

I am thankful for the chance to travel and meet people and learn first hand about other cultures.

Response by PV2 Steven Utley made Nov 18 at 2021 9:29 AM

PV2 Steven Utley — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:29:51 -0500

I am thankful I chose to serve my country. As a very great man said, Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.

Response by SSG David Gomez made Nov 18 at 2021 9:32 AM

SSG David Gomez — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:32:09 -0500

I really want to be honest here. I joined the Army in June 1988 and after 4 years it was time to say goodbye. Low and behold, a Recruiter for the Maryland Army National Guard was a friend of mine and he knew right when I got out. I agreed to join the National Guard and stayed in another 17 years. Glad I did and I am grateful for the pension that I will eventually be eligible for. This same Recruiter took his own life years later and I am forever grateful to him for making such an impact on my life and likely others. Going back to my Army days at Ft Ord, CA, well they made me fall in love with running and I still enjoy running to this day, 32 years later.

Response by SFC Pamela Travis made Nov 18 at 2021 9:33 AM

SFC Pamela Travis — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:33:19 -0500

My military experience instilled in me the value of flexibility!! The Army had a saying of “hurry up and wait!” When things changed during the day ref work assignments the skill of flexibility allowed me to just “go with the flow,” and not stress out, get upset, have an anxiety attack! I’m thankful for my military experience giving me that awesome skill.

Response by PO1 Ronald Slay made Nov 18 at 2021 9:34 AM

PO1 Ronald Slay — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:34:52 -0500

I'm thankful for that I had the opportunity to meet people from other areas of the United States and learn their culture and history. I was also fortunate to travel around the world and meet and learn history and culture from other countries, which is giving me a great perspective on the United States and its relation to the rest of the world. It's also been a blessing to share this knowledge with family and friends.

Response by SGT Jeff Steele (Ret.) made Nov 18 at 2021 9:38 AM

SGT Jeff Steele (Ret.) — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:38:32 -0500

I am thankful for the discipline, fortitude and leadership traits the Army instilled in me. The Army values have stayed with me and have helped me in my civilian career as well.

Response by SP5 Marianne Toohey made Nov 18 at 2021 9:45 AM

SP5 Marianne Toohey — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:45:51 -0500

I am most thankful for the lifelong friendships I made. Their friendship, love and support mean the world to me and I wouldn't be who I am today without them!

Response by PO3 Christopher Sumpter made Nov 18 at 2021 9:56 AM

PO3 Christopher Sumpter — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:56:13 -0500

I am thankful that the Navy was offering a 2-year enlistment so that I was able to serve without completely derailing my life.

Response by Sgt Richard E Lambert made Nov 18 at 2021 9:58 AM

Sgt Richard E Lambert — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:58:22 -0500

Thankful for the opportunity to serve my country and provide freedom to all who seek it.
SEMPER FI !! Thankful that I live in a country that provides freedom of choices.
Speech, religion, a right to bear arms, opportunity, hope, etc., etc.
May we NEVER forgot what this country is founded on. Thankful all who have gone before us
and those who answer the call to keep America strong and free!
God bless the USA!!

SEMPER FI!!

Response by SPC Tamica Thompson made Nov 18 at 2021 10:02 AM

SPC Tamica Thompson — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:02:36 -0500

What I am most thankful for about my military experience is the friends I have made and being able to say that I am a veteran

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 10:02 AM

LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:02:54 -0500

Thankful for pushing me everyday to be the best that I can be. Glad to have the opportunity to work hard at work worth doing with people that inspire me to get after it every day.

Response by Sgt Benjamin Dawson made Nov 18 at 2021 10:05 AM

Sgt Benjamin Dawson — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:05:51 -0500

Becoming friends with people I served with, having a lifetime bond.

Response by Cpl Dean Zeller made Nov 18 at 2021 10:12 AM

Cpl Dean Zeller — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:12:29 -0500

I was a punk street kid growing up. I entered the USMC with my buddy. Boot camp took all that stupidity out of me and made a man of me. I had presidential duty and had to adhere to many protocol's, and be protective of all the dignitaries that were on my watch. Got married, two kids, good job, took advantage of the education the USMC let me do and became a commercial pilot. I'm so grateful to have served my country and become a man that the USMC made of me.

Response by SPC Michael Harmer made Nov 18 at 2021 10:13 AM

SPC Michael Harmer — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:13:38 -0500

I would say I am most thankful for the comraderie and kinship that I built while I was in uniform. I still have contact with many of my brothers and sisters at arms to this day.

Response by SGT Valerie Wilson made Nov 18 at 2021 10:17 AM

SGT Valerie Wilson — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:17:27 -0500

The life long friends that I met and all of the experiences that I never would have had a chance to take part of if I had not joined.

Response by SGT David Conlon made Nov 18 at 2021 10:20 AM

SGT David Conlon — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:20:39 -0500

The Army made me grow up. I was 19 when i got drafted then enlisted and went to Nam. I became a better person.

Response by SPC Melissa Blue made Nov 18 at 2021 10:20 AM

SPC Melissa Blue — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:20:58 -0500

I am thankful for my lessons in self-discipline. I came from a lack of structure which everyone needs. I also am thankful for opening my mind to the world. I come from a small town.

Response by SP5 Walter Anderson made Nov 18 at 2021 10:21 AM

SP5 Walter Anderson — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:21:48 -0500

The men and women I served with made all of the hardships worthwhile. I am thankful for them. I am also thankful that I survived my two tours in Vietnam.

Response by CPO Daniel Holmes made Nov 18 at 2021 10:40 AM

CPO Daniel Holmes — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:40:35 -0500

I had a vast wealth of experience as a Hospital Corpsman, from clinics, hospitals, ships and two tours with the Marines. I’ve seen most of the world both good and bad. Was in Grenada and Beruit and Desert Shield (Saudi). I learned to value all lives, maturity, responsibility among many excellent morals. I’ve saved lives and lost some. I learned the most important thing in that life is to be cherished as it is short lived . Therefore, you must make the best of it. Care for others while also taking care of yourself. I’d never trade my life and experiences for anything! We all have to be there for each other!

Response by SMSgt Ralph (Ray) L. Ardis made Nov 18 at 2021 10:41 AM

SMSgt Ralph (Ray) L. Ardis — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:41:35 -0500

As an Air Force Flying aeromedical technician, I am most grateful for the honor of serving the medical needs of our wounded and hurting military soldiers and their families. My mother was a registered Nurse and she lead me to be kind and help others in the medical profession. SMS Ray Ardis

Response by SGT John Overby made Nov 18 at 2021 10:42 AM

SGT John Overby — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:42:35 -0500

The thing I appreciate the most is from the level of accountability learned by being in charge of the brigade crypto "cave". When an officer lost a code book while on post maneuvers " I saw first-hand what could hit the fan" for a moment of stupidity.

Response by Sgt William Cominos made Nov 18 at 2021 10:46 AM

Sgt William Cominos — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:46:18 -0500

The friendships forged!

Response by Sgt Michael Ramirez made Nov 18 at 2021 10:46 AM

Sgt Michael Ramirez — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:46:19 -0500

Appreciate all the people I met over the years. Great experience in meeting and getting to know people of different backgrounds all working toward a common goal.

Response by SPC Caroline Yi made Nov 18 at 2021 10:46 AM

SPC Caroline Yi — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:46:48 -0500

Meeting the people, really do become brothers and sisters for life!

Response by CWO2 William Stephenson made Nov 18 at 2021 10:47 AM

CWO2 William Stephenson — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:47:52 -0500

The U.S. Marines took me in as a boy and made me a MAN.

Response by CPO Jason Highberg made Nov 18 at 2021 10:50 AM

CPO Jason Highberg — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:50:19 -0500

My military experience has given me so much more than any traditional school ever could. Making friends, going places, seeing sights most people don't ever get the chance to. The training and the schooling and the fun times and camaraderie compare to nothing else.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 10:55 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:55:51 -0500

Honestly, I don't even know. I can't say if my life was better with or without the Military.

Response by SGT Kelly Murphy made Nov 18 at 2021 10:58 AM

SGT Kelly Murphy — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:58:52 -0500

I learned how to be a leader. Not only in getting the job done, but looking at a situation and knowing, no matter how you get it done (safety and legality taken into account) get it done and on time. If you do this, nobody cares how you did it, they just care that the result helped the team/unit/company meet a goal.

Response by PO3 Brian Hickman made Nov 18 at 2021 11:03 AM

PO3 Brian Hickman — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:03:31 -0500

I am most thankful for the people I meet while in the military. I was able to meet people from all over the world who many have inspired me to this day. The travels were amazing.

Response by SPC Matthew Davis made Nov 18 at 2021 11:03 AM

SPC Matthew Davis — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:03:57 -0500

I am most grateful to have served with some of the best people I have ever known! I miss them greatly!

Response by CPO Gerald Burns made Nov 18 at 2021 11:05 AM

CPO Gerald Burns — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:05:37 -0500

I joined the Navy to get further education at n Medicine. Planned in four yrs active and reserve time. Was offered Independent Duty School as a re-enlistment bonus. I had about 26 months in the service when I reported for school. I remained on active duty for 19 years then got out to attend Physician Assistant school. My military experience helped immensely with P.A. School.
I remained a PA for 18 years until medical problems forced me to retire. Loved my time in service, especially working with the Marines.

Response by CSM Gary Simons made Nov 18 at 2021 11:14 AM

CSM Gary Simons — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:14:22 -0500

I am thankful to have served our Country in the US Army for thirty years

Response by Amn Steven Heugel made Nov 18 at 2021 11:33 AM

Amn Steven Heugel — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:33:21 -0500

The privilege and honor to serve our country to learn from the best and utilize those skills with my day job after I got out of the Air Force helped me immensely to be a successful recruiter with the state of Ohio

Response by MAJ Jim Brehm made Nov 18 at 2021 11:35 AM

MAJ Jim Brehm — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:35:53 -0500

I am most thankful for the educational benefits the military offered. I joined the Army as a 17 year old non grad (my parents kicked me out after 11th grade). The Army got me to finish my high school diploma and then I went on to finish my bachelors degree and applied for OCS as a Staff Sergeant. The Army also paid for my Masters Degree and I retired as a Major with 9 years service as enlisted and 13 years as an officer which helped me get my Government job which I did 20 years and retired as a GS-12.

Response by SGT Marie Vedder made Nov 18 at 2021 11:37 AM

SGT Marie Vedder — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:37:26 -0500

My beautiful battle buddy, Betty. We were acquaintances before deployment, but now I have a sister. We are each other’s rock, even when months pass without a phone call. I am profoundly grateful for her.

Response by PO1 John Luke made Nov 18 at 2021 11:42 AM

PO1 John Luke — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:42:50 -0500

Before I went in the military, I did not have much discipline. When I went through boot camp, it taught me a lot of things about life which I still use today.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 11:43 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:43:51 -0500

The life long friendships built upon shared experiences and great memories. Although it’s difficult to keep in touch with most of the folks you meet after a PCS or separation, one usually tends to maintain strong ties with at least a few close friends long after you all depart a duty station. I have friends that I met through my time in service that have literally become extended members of my family still to this day! Wouldn’t trade the experience for anything

Response by SSG Christopher Morin made Nov 18 at 2021 11:45 AM

SSG Christopher Morin — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:45:43 -0500

The comeraderie and friends that I met and still have to this day.

Response by SSG Christopher Morin made Nov 18 at 2021 11:46 AM

SSG Christopher Morin — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:46:37 -0500

The comereraderie and friends that we met along the way of serving our country.

Response by A1C Lloyd Box made Nov 18 at 2021 11:49 AM

A1C Lloyd Box — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:49:20 -0500

I am thankful for the fact that whatever comes, I learned that I can take it head-on. Discipline. Loyalty. Perseverance. Responsibility.

Response by SGT Greg Sanders made Nov 18 at 2021 11:57 AM

SGT Greg Sanders — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:57:45 -0500

Learning how to deal with different personalities and organizational skills which I continue to use today in current position.

Response by SPC Greg Collier made Nov 18 at 2021 12:03 PM

SPC Greg Collier — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 12:03:06 -0500

I am thankful for the confidence it gives me to take on any situation and the great lifelong friendships which came out of my service.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 12:11 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 12:11:43 -0500

I am most thankful for the relationships I built over the course of my career.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Nov 18 at 2021 12:28 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 12:28:11 -0500

My military experience taught me how to be patient, prudent, tolerant in a world that has very little of those three. It also taught me that as satisfying as power-bombing someone, maiming them, or executing them would be because of the evil they done to you would be, it still isn't the best idea...especially if you don't want to go to jail. I also learned that karma has EVERYONE'S address and SHE visits when SHE wants to. No need to hasten her approach.

Response by SSG Conrad Sylvestrelamb made Nov 18 at 2021 12:40 PM

SSG Conrad Sylvestrelamb — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 12:40:28 -0500

Starting day 1 BT I was 31 , 18 would be better . Laugh at grandma . You're too old . Stayed 20 over . Now ain't Laughing pain has my 6 grandma laughing.

Response by SGT Chris Olivo made Nov 18 at 2021 12:54 PM

SGT Chris Olivo — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 12:54:39 -0500

I am grateful for my military career because, of the man it helped to become. I grew up in the projects and had started to become a product of my surroundings. I knew I had always wanted to join the military like my grandfather and his brothers, so when I was 18 years old I felt I need to change and the Army gave me that opportunity to grow and achieve all I set out to accomplish.

Response by A1C Samuel Leggett made Nov 18 at 2021 1:01 PM

A1C Samuel Leggett — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:01:14 -0500

The medical education that the USAF provided me as an entry-level Laboratory Technician. It kick started my college education and placed me on a 40 year career in Clinical Laboratory Medicine.
My mother was an immigrant from England, with no understanding of the American education system, thinking that everyone with high grades moved into the university system. My father, in the early 1940s, dropped out of school before 7th grade to work to help support the family. So he had no knowledge of what it would take to get into a university. My high school "guidance" counselor felt that it was the teens job to seek out guidance on the path to higher education. Mainly only helping his group of the upper 5% students. According to him, the rest will remain in the city working in menial jobs.
When this person told me that I would never leave my hometown, I went straight to the U.S. Military Recruiting Office. After telling the Air Force Recruiter what I wanted to do with a college degree, he set me up to take the ASVAB exam. Upon receiving my grades he said that I could have any job that I wanted. Knowing that I was looking at medical school, he pulled up all of the medical related options. Although President Reagan minimized the educational portion of the GI Bill down to a dollar-for-dollar matching system, I graduated on my own means at the age of 40. I had learnt, by working for and taking individual courses, that attending a college or university was not as frightening as people had made seem.

Response by PO1 Paul Grunwald made Nov 18 at 2021 1:13 PM

PO1 Paul Grunwald — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:13:44 -0500

After flunking out of college, the Navy had enough confidence in me to train and deploy me on a Trident submarine. All my high school buddies are either dead or still working at the lumberyard.

I have had a successful career in high tech and business.

I’m grateful for the confidence shown in me and to serve this nation in such a trusted position.

Good bless America!

Response by PO3 Gerardo Serrano made Nov 18 at 2021 1:30 PM

PO3 Gerardo Serrano — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:30:22 -0500

I love the exposure to diversity it provided to me. I was raised in a mainly Hispanic community and never really dealt with other groups of people and the military (NAVY) provided that exposure to me and provided me with the skills i still use today to provide help and support to others as a social worker and work for people of all backgrounds. Thank you!

Response by PFC Andrew Booth made Nov 18 at 2021 1:43 PM

PFC Andrew Booth — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:43:16 -0500

I am thankful for all the skills I learned in aviation maintenance that I still use today!

Response by SrA Brent Bailey made Nov 18 at 2021 1:47 PM

SrA Brent Bailey — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:47:57 -0500

I am the most thankful for the training I received and the lasting relationships that I made with the people I served with.

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Nov 18 at 2021 1:56 PM

SGT Erick Holmes — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:56:46 -0500

The opportunity to find out who SGT Holmes, Erick is, what I have become, and what made SGT Holmes, Erick SGT Holmes, Erick. Personally you can't really find that out too much unless you had some kind of military background. That is not saying for those who did not join that they did not find out who they were and what they have become. However, for those who have served and are serving we all know what it takes and there is countless stories and reflections on what made us us.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 2:23 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 14:23:39 -0500

I am most thankful for two things actually. The experience I had working in the shipyard, and conducting maintenance on board ship. They were outstanding learning tools and have steered me into the direction to go in civilian life. I am also very thankful for the friendships made there, which, I believe, will never be topped in the civilian world.

Response by CDR Vic Monzon made Nov 18 at 2021 2:56 PM

CDR Vic Monzon — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 14:56:13 -0500

Educational opportunities. In 1971 i attended ET-A school (1 of 17). From 1973-76 I participated in NESEP earning an engineering degree from UNM (3.4). From 1977-78 I earned my NFO wings (2 of 26) and joined the VP community. In 1982 I joined VP-31 as an Instructor NFO while simultaneously earning my Masters from USC (3.6) in 1983.

Response by SFC Robert Miranda made Nov 18 at 2021 2:58 PM

SFC Robert Miranda — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 14:58:22 -0500

Being part of a team gave me direction and purpose. It taught me that life was more than me, myself, and I. Thankful for the brotherhood and sisterhood after active duty.

Response by CDR Vic Monzon made Nov 18 at 2021 3:22 PM

CDR Vic Monzon — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 15:22:13 -0500

Response by SFC Donald Shilo made Nov 18 at 2021 4:04 PM

SFC Donald Shilo — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:04:30 -0500

Those I love.

Response by SPC Alfred Dianela made Nov 18 at 2021 4:21 PM

SPC Alfred Dianela — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:21:45 -0500

I am grateful for getting back home to California, well and alive. I would like to express my appreciation for the combat training I received, my experiences in combat that kept me alive, and the opportunity to save some lives. I had a heart attack and 2 strokes, etc. and I'm still alive. Thanks to the VA for all the benefits I am continually receiving now that I am a disabled veteran, but proud to have served our country. I'll be happy to do it again if given the chance to. Thank you.

Response by PFC John Slattery made Nov 18 at 2021 4:47 PM

PFC John Slattery — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:47:39 -0500

Three things: The G.I. Bill, which allowed me to get my Masters degree; VA Helathcare, which has provided me with great healthcare, including three surgeries for Agent Orange-related prostate cancer and melanoma, and the qualities of responsibility, service, and courage, which my time in the Marine Corps instilled in me.

Response by PFC Carolin Long made Nov 18 at 2021 5:27 PM

PFC Carolin Long — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 17:27:31 -0500

I am most thankful for the support of two of my Drill Sergeants while doing my best as my body failed me. I am also thankful for the knowledge and confidence I gained while in the service. I had the experience of being enlisted when 9/11/01 happened. The value of that check I signed when I joined has never been so evident and meaningful. I was ready to head off and do whatever needed to be done - despite my lack of training.

Response by MAJ Ray Esparza made Nov 18 at 2021 5:34 PM

MAJ Ray Esparza — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 17:34:35 -0500

I enjoyed the comradery, I was in two purple outfits and we always had monthly pot luck dinners, we got together regardless of rank or position. I miss this very much!

Response by Patti Kempf made Nov 18 at 2021 5:35 PM

Patti Kempf — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 17:35:08 -0500

Everything I learned in the military has stayed with me for my entire life. It has instilled so many valuable character traits that are valued and appreciated. I had a chance to see the world and live and work with people of many cultures that I will cherish always.

Response by LTC Earl Driver made Nov 18 at 2021 5:49 PM

LTC Earl Driver — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 17:49:22 -0500

The opportunity to serve the United States of America!

Response by PO3 James Heine made Nov 18 at 2021 5:55 PM

PO3 James Heine — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 17:55:57 -0500

It taught me that the world and America itself is very diverse and I learned admiration and respect for various people, cultures and ideas. It taught me that we are various people but yet we are really one, that we have more in common than what we have in differences. I was able to see and experience things not many seem to get to. The good and bad experiences and observations shaped my life and it has helped me be a stronger person, more open to things but not being a 'sucker' or a fool that 'goes with the flow' or falls for anything. And I did learn a lot of things that way that classrooms can never teach you.

Response by SP5 John Garcia made Nov 18 at 2021 6:01 PM

SP5 John Garcia — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 18:01:10 -0500

It made me the person I am. I know that is corny , but I gained confidence and responsibility. I learned how to treat people from different walks of life and patience, perseverance. I was fortunate enough to save 3 lives because of my training and have made several lifelong friends. Even though it was not perfect it allowed me to grow as a person.

Response by PO1 BrendaLee Lennick made Nov 18 at 2021 6:32 PM

PO1 BrendaLee Lennick — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 18:32:32 -0500

Learning a "trade" and seeing places I would have never had the opportunity to see. In addition, my children learned more about living in different areas of the US and the world than they would have to stay in one place. It broadens the mind and spirit and for that, I am forever thankful.

Response by Sgt Joy Cameron made Nov 18 at 2021 7:08 PM

Sgt Joy Cameron — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 19:08:30 -0500

I joined the military in 2001. I was fresh out of college and ready to start my life. I was the first female troop in my family. As I went about my career I can say I am most grateful for the honor guard. Representing the fallen brother or sister as they were laid to rest was precious. As I would read the headstones at each cemetery and see the faces of the loved ones who laid to rest their family, I learned about human nature and how precious life is. These experiences guided me in my decisions and as a result, I have cherished the moments life has to offer.

Response by SSgt Kenneth Bernard made Nov 18 at 2021 7:34 PM

SSgt Kenneth Bernard — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 19:34:31 -0500

thankful for the discipline and camaraderie I learned and experienced

Response by SPC Jameson McGlaughlin made Nov 18 at 2021 7:43 PM

SPC Jameson McGlaughlin — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 19:43:54 -0500

The benefits that I have received for my service have been very fulfilling.

Response by SPC Sherrie Chapman made Nov 18 at 2021 8:08 PM

SPC Sherrie Chapman — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 20:08:50 -0500

I'm thankful to have learned how important family and traditional holidays are to me. Without the separation, I'd never appreciate them the way I do now

Response by SPC David Buttrey made Nov 18 at 2021 8:13 PM

SPC David Buttrey — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 20:13:38 -0500

The understanding of the drill sergeants and future leadership that was able to mold me into a soldier I can be proud of.

Response by SGT Rick Seconds made Nov 18 at 2021 8:14 PM

SGT Rick Seconds — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 20:14:07 -0500

I am most thankful that I was lucky enough to serve with three elite units, 82nd Airborne, 101st Pathfinder Company and 1/509th ABCT, and was on the Patrolling Committee for West Point 1981.

Response by SSgt Ricardo Lugo made Nov 18 at 2021 8:26 PM

SSgt Ricardo Lugo — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 20:26:16 -0500

I was raised in a military family environment; during my childhood I went true difficult families times. My father serve in the Korean/Vietnam war era. My brother also serve during the Vietnam war era and my sister join the army during peace time. As last to serve was my self during Gulf war era. We serve with a family vision to keep the legacy of are nation, freedom, pursuit of happiness, national defense and the call of are God to serve are nation for justice and global reach. With all this experience I thank God first, are nation and the Department of Defense for the training knowledge that keeps me striving in my life; thru peace and crisis time. God Bless America.

Response by SSgt Robert Jorgensen made Nov 18 at 2021 8:58 PM

SSgt Robert Jorgensen — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 20:58:27 -0500

The responsibility as a 18 year old to keep a F-4 flying, being able to see some of Germany, spend time in Las Vegas and support our birds in Fla for William Tell competition. Made my grow in so many ways to be a productive person in life.

Response by SPC Lawrence Silver made Nov 18 at 2021 9:54 PM

SPC Lawrence Silver — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 21:54:04 -0500

I'm most grateful to serve the country I love, the United States and to give back for all She has given to me.

Response by SSgt Herb King made Nov 18 at 2021 10:17 PM

SSgt Herb King — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 22:17:00 -0500

It opened my eyes to the Beautiful land we live in. As a kid I lived in and around Philly and outdoors was a trip to the park. I experienced Texas, Colorado, Alaska as duty stations and all the surrounding areas I was able to see on days off. I enjoyed the majesty and splendor of our great land from sea to sea and a lot in between. I have continued this exploration after discharge and have visited many diverse areas of the country as a result of my service.

Response by SGT Joe Monzon made Nov 18 at 2021 10:31 PM

SGT Joe Monzon — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 22:31:52 -0500

The US ARMY, taught me many things. Loyalty, honor, respect. Help others that need it. Always do the RIGHT thing, even though nobody’s looking. This has made me a great father, husband and friend. I have also passed these traits into my kids. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Response by CPL Charles Ellis made Nov 18 at 2021 10:36 PM

CPL Charles Ellis — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 22:36:08 -0500

Having access to the VA

Response by SMSgt Victor Ogden made Nov 18 at 2021 11:05 PM

SMSgt Victor Ogden — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 23:05:52 -0500

I am thankful for all the wonderful men and women in uniform I had the pleasure of working with all over the world. I met people of all ranks and branches of service that I am glad to call my brothers and sisters in arms. I was blessed to meet people from different backgrounds and was able to gain an appreciation for the diverse populace that makes up the US military. The experiences I enjoyed would have never been possible without having joined the greatest all volunteer military force in the world.

Response by PO2 John Driskill made Nov 18 at 2021 11:15 PM

PO2 John Driskill — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 23:15:38 -0500

I am thankful for the discipline and order that the Navy instilled in me that has lasted over into a career as a police officer and now in the maritime industry.

Response by LTC Neil Lang made Nov 19 at 2021 1:32 AM

LTC Neil Lang — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 01:32:19 -0500

As I look back at my time in the military, I can honestly say that I am thankful for a supportive and understanding wife. . As a young officer, it was a struggle to make ends meet every month with a wife and two young kids. My wife managed our budget. We never failed to pay our bills due to her efforts. We even managed to save a little because she had a way of tucking away a few dollars every paycheck. Like many military wives, she had to raise our kids by herself when I was deployed. Based on how they turned out, she did a great job.

Response by SFC Richard Baerlocher made Nov 19 at 2021 2:51 AM

SFC Richard Baerlocher — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 02:51:33 -0500

I entered the Army in April of 1966 after my Selective Service Physical. When I entered the Army, I was skinny, and still more of a unassuming child rather than an adult. I knew nothing about true leadership. The Army taught me what true leadership is all about. They taught me to listen to my subordinates, and to lead rather than order my men. Ordering your men should be reserved for those times that immediate leadership is necessary.

Response by Jamie Bonafe made Nov 19 at 2021 2:59 AM

Jamie Bonafe — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 02:59:27 -0500

I am thankful for the experiences that traveling around the world that as an Air Force wife has given me. It forced me to do new things, to have new experiences and to make friends across the globe. I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

Response by CPL Jennifer Creek made Nov 19 at 2021 6:01 AM

CPL Jennifer Creek — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 06:01:13 -0500

Experience and loyalty

Response by SGT Nichoals R. made Nov 19 at 2021 6:27 AM

SGT Nichoals R. — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 06:27:13 -0500

My military experience taught me how to be more disciplined, organized and pay attention to the details in everything one does in their life. After I was Honorably Discharge from the Army I excelled in every job that Ii worked at for the past 50 years due to the training and discipline I received while I was in the service.

Response by SPC Amina Higgs made Nov 19 at 2021 6:42 AM

SPC Amina Higgs — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 06:42:40 -0500

I am most grateful for the experience in travel and training for a female who joined after the age of 30 I learned a lot.

Response by LCpl Jimmie Hall made Nov 19 at 2021 7:24 AM

LCpl Jimmie Hall — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 07:24:39 -0500

I am most thankful to have had the opportunity to serve my country and the privilege to travel and see our beautiful world.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2021 8:37 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 08:37:51 -0500

The friends and confidence you gain as you discover your self-being. So many ups and downs, having the ability to adapt and overcome is priceless.

Response by SSgt Richie Green made Nov 19 at 2021 9:14 AM

SSgt Richie Green — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 09:14:35 -0500

I am most grateful for my experience of the exposure to real world. The different views of the people of from across the America, The life of the people in the Far East and the knowledge and views of the people in Western Europe and the life standards of the populations in Central America. I am also appreciative of the growth my military experience gave gave me.

Response by SPC Merle Jantz made Nov 19 at 2021 10:21 AM

SPC Merle Jantz — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 10:21:57 -0500

Bonding over shared hardships; making a conscious decision to not get too down over conditions you can't control.

Response by SPC Nancy Summers made Nov 19 at 2021 11:22 AM

SPC Nancy Summers — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 11:22:48 -0500

MY HUSBAND! I met him when we were stationed at Ft Sill and we have been married for 29 years!

Response by PO3 Tamara LeMay made Nov 19 at 2021 1:57 PM

PO3 Tamara LeMay — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 13:57:33 -0500

Thankful for my military service, family, friends, my sorority sisters, and that the pandemic now has vaccines to treat everyone ...

Response by SGT Nathan Hunt made Nov 19 at 2021 2:41 PM

SGT Nathan Hunt — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 14:41:40 -0500

The work experience, travel and friendships

Response by SP5 Jorge Maspons made Nov 19 at 2021 2:55 PM

SP5 Jorge Maspons — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 14:55:27 -0500

I am thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the cause of freedom and serving my country

Response by SrA Daniel Ferguson Jr. made Nov 19 at 2021 3:47 PM

SrA Daniel Ferguson Jr. — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 15:47:10 -0500

the most I have to be thankful for is learning to pay attention to detail, learning how to organize, how to clean properly, expect the unexpected; cause life will throw you a curve ball at any moment and you'll end up in the most unusual places. Best thankful part is travel. I got to see some great places, see some beautiful countries. last but, least meet some of the most great people ever.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2021 5:15 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 17:15:36 -0500

I'm most thankful for all of the different cultures I was exposed to throughout my service. It truly has made me appreciate people regardless of where they're from and what they look like. Character should never be judged by one's appearance. Thanksgiving in Kosovo in 1999 and Thanksgiving in Afghanistan in 2011 was only different because it wasn't spent in America. Germany, Spain, London, Italy and Africa all treated me with respect and admiration and I'm forever thankful.

Response by CPO Michael Callegri made Nov 19 at 2021 8:04 PM

CPO Michael Callegri — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 20:04:26 -0500

It's given me a view of the world and the way things are outside of our country that others will never see or understand. It has given me an appreciation for our way of life.

Response by Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna made Nov 19 at 2021 9:34 PM

Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:34:35 -0500

1. I survived Boot Camp! 1981...
2. I meet many helpful senior enlisted who helped direct my path and encourage me to attend & expand my education...
3.Now 58 years old, wish I never got out...
4. Discipline ( I signed up 10 months prior to graduating from High School/needed both my parents signatures)
5. Today I encourage any human to enter if undecided what to do with life (gave to each neice or nephew who graduated also cousins)...

Response by Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna made Nov 19 at 2021 9:38 PM

Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:38:21 -0500

1. Survived Boot Camp!... 1981
2. Discipline I received... Was my first job
3. My senior enlisted guided & instruct me what direction to go...
4. Took college courses on base...
5. Love how a Marine who served before me or served after me can Quickly become a Bother/Sister as natural step in life.

Response by SSgt Carroll Straus made Nov 19 at 2021 11:21 PM

SSgt Carroll Straus — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 23:21:53 -0500

VA health care.

Response by SSgt Michael Dale made Nov 20 at 2021 1:21 AM

SSgt Michael Dale — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 01:21:33 -0500

Until I die, I’m thankful for the men and women I served with for the 10 years I was in the USAF. As a Combat Controller I spent much of my time working for and with people who served in the Army, Navy, Marines and various branches with allied nations. Each day was a learning experience, making it a gift. I’m forever thankful for those gifts.

Response by Maj Gary Ewers made Nov 20 at 2021 11:02 PM

Maj Gary Ewers — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 23:02:30 -0500

Retirement pay!

Response by SPC David Ramos made Nov 20 at 2021 11:17 PM

SPC David Ramos — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 23:17:49 -0500

Met new lifelong friends. Still sharing even though we have been living apart from each other.

Response by PO1 David M Burns made Nov 21 at 2021 12:00 AM

PO1 David M Burns — Sun, 21 Nov 2021 00:00:16 -0500

Joined the navy at 15 yrs old in 1951 during the korean War. most thankful for being mentored and trained by WW-2 Vets who had been there and done that and and feared nothing and made a man out of me! U.S.S. Princeton CV-37

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made Nov 21 at 2021 1:25 PM

SPC Lyle Montgomery — Sun, 21 Nov 2021 13:25:11 -0500

The most thankful thing about my military experience besides getting out with ETS is that over 50 years later is the VA hospital system. I only did 2 years as an Army grunt in Vietnam and aquired medical problems because of the time spent there. The VA is taking good care of me now. I'm Proud of my military service and have no regrets about being in the Army but was glad to be out after 2 years

Response by SSgt Laurence Rose made Nov 21 at 2021 6:50 PM

SSgt Laurence Rose — Sun, 21 Nov 2021 18:50:25 -0500

The exposure to many people and their varied experiences and backgrounds! I learned a major part of who I am from the many service members and the local populations in my military travels.

Response by SSG Timothy McCoy made Nov 21 at 2021 10:45 PM

SSG Timothy McCoy — Sun, 21 Nov 2021 22:45:29 -0500

One of the most thankful thinks from my military experience, has been being humbled by serving with some the greatest men and women that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting and working with.
Having the ability to work with or train up a Snot nosed 2Lt. and seeing their names in the headlines as a Senior Commanders or Leaders.
I am wholeheartedly humbled in this time of the year when good will and tidings come from these same men and women to me from the four corners of the world.
I wish I could hug them all.
Tim McCoy
SSG, ABN INF. (Ret.)

Response by SPC Chris Saroka made Nov 22 at 2021 8:49 AM

SPC Chris Saroka — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 08:49:21 -0500

I'm thankful for being in a brotherhood that has lasted nearly 30 years. The comradery that was built up is ever lasting and today it allows me to pay it forward to the men and women who serve today.

Response by TSgt Jeff Tessman made Nov 22 at 2021 2:35 PM

TSgt Jeff Tessman — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 14:35:03 -0500

The teamwork, camaraderie and we always had each other’s backs… It didn’t matter who we were or where we were from… We were one unit

Response by MAJ Robert Jones made Nov 22 at 2021 4:51 PM

MAJ Robert Jones — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:51:08 -0500

I most thankful for life because I was injured in the middle-east and subsequently medically retired from the military. I spent about 18 months rehabbing from injuries related to my tours of duty in the middle east. Now, I have reinvented my life with my challenges and look forward to each day to learn new things and experience life in ways that those who did not survive cannot; so it is my duty to live life honestly and with focus and appreciation for what I can do instead of what I cannot. Best Regards, Robert Jones, [login to see]

Response by SGT Thomas Wageling made Nov 22 at 2021 7:14 PM

SGT Thomas Wageling — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 19:14:40 -0500

I am thankful that i came home from Vietnam to the greatest country in the world in November of 1971 with sound mind and body. I'm also thankful that it was a good experience for me making several very good vietnamese friends which i have gone back and visited four time since 2001.

Response by PO3 Ricky Smith made Nov 23 at 2021 6:48 AM

PO3 Ricky Smith — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 06:48:54 -0500

That I was able to start my education journey and meet some very interesting friends and characters along my travels. Would not be the person I am today without my military foundation.

Response by Sgt Bob Sutherland made Nov 23 at 2021 9:26 AM

Sgt Bob Sutherland — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 09:26:48 -0500

Being a Marine is the major reason I changed from having no faith in my abilities to bring a successful, college-educated man. I gained confidence in my ability to think, solve problems, and in being able to interact with many types of individuals no matter what their background.

Response by SrA Michael Combs made Nov 23 at 2021 4:29 PM

SrA Michael Combs — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 16:29:14 -0500

The opportunity to have served in the greatest fighting force known to man, such a cool experience!

Response by SPC Jennifer Durfee made Nov 24 at 2021 5:44 PM

SPC Jennifer Durfee — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:44:10 -0500

I am most thankful for the friendships and family that I was able to build during my military service. I am still closer to them than I am most people in my life. I will always be so grateful for them.

Response by Cpl Carlos Fonte made Nov 24 at 2021 5:49 PM

Cpl Carlos Fonte — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:49:22 -0500

As a Desert Storm veteran I am thankful for our Nation's strong and rich history for the cause of freedom. The Marines had given me an opportunity to serve a blessed Nation that gave my family freedom from oppression and from communist rule when we were granted by God's grace freedom. We came on a Freedom Flight from Communist Cuba to America on January 9th, 1970. What a privilege it was to take part in liberating Kuwait with the United States Marine Corps. Oorah!! Semper Fi, Carlos

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2021 5:49 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:49:33 -0500

I am most thankful for the life long friendships I made and the training and education I was able to get while serving and traveling the world.

Response by SPC Walter Lauzon made Nov 24 at 2021 5:52 PM

SPC Walter Lauzon — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:52:32 -0500

As a Vietnam veteran I'm thankful for the training I received that helped me find a great job when I got back. It also teaches you to grow up quickly and how to be self-sufficient, unlike the 20 year olds today.

Response by MCPO Alma Robinson made Nov 24 at 2021 5:54 PM

MCPO Alma Robinson — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:54:40 -0500

I am thankful for the intercultural relations I've experienced overseas particularly community engagement in Iraq.

Response by SGT Juliet Falconieri Felder made Nov 24 at 2021 6:11 PM

SGT Juliet Falconieri Felder — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:11:18 -0500

I am most thankful for the bond that formed between myself and my military family. We went to Desert Shield together and they are my forever family

Response by Gloria Lawrence made Nov 24 at 2021 6:14 PM

Gloria Lawrence — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:14:15 -0500

Thankful that Rick was awarded benefits before he died. I miss him but know he is whole again

Response by SPC Jonathan Bill made Nov 24 at 2021 6:20 PM

SPC Jonathan Bill — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:20:04 -0500

Having the opportunity to grow and serve with some of the best people I've ever met. Seeing the rest of the world and feeling fortunate to live in the USA

Response by PO1 Dilene Smith made Nov 24 at 2021 6:28 PM

PO1 Dilene Smith — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:28:19 -0500

I’m thankful for the experience I gained while serving in the Navy for 20 years. It taught me that there are problems in any job or organization, but you can work through them and learn from them. It made me a stronger person and better able to deal with adversity. It taught me loyalty and commitment, things I sometimes see lacking in these times. I wouldn’t trade this invaluable experience for anything and wish everyone could share in this experience and serve their country.

Response by Sgt Jennifer Locker made Nov 24 at 2021 6:28 PM

Sgt Jennifer Locker — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:28:53 -0500

I am grateful for the grace of God surrounding me with a wonderful family, my veteran friends, all veterans and their families for their sacrifices, my close elderly community, the VA for excellent heath care, my good health, the strength and independence gained through hard work and diligence, my lifetime mentors and colleagues, love, and happiness. Hard roads, at times, even still...a good life.

Response by Cpl Patrick Winslow made Nov 24 at 2021 6:34 PM

Cpl Patrick Winslow — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:34:35 -0500

I have only now, in the last few years, learned to more fully appreciate my military experience. I realize that I would be a better Marine now than what I was when I was in. I have put to better use the principles I learned, only after getting out and going overseas as a contractor and then as a truck driver.

I wish I had this mindset when I was a reservist and I would have gone active duty.

Response by SGT Timothy Walker made Nov 24 at 2021 6:36 PM

SGT Timothy Walker — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:36:39 -0500

The military gave me a sense of belonging to something bigger than myself. I always appreciated living in a free country and was glad to join to help defend it. I was a part of the Berlin Brigade, guarded at Spandau prison, was able to visit Paris, France. I later was sent to Fort Lewis in Washington where I was able to fish for salmon and bow hunt elk. However, the most grateful thing was the 30 days' leave I got each year. It was on one of these I was able to find the woman of my dreams. We were only together two weeks before going back to Washington from Florida but, that was enough. Two days after receiving my honorable discharge I married my sweetheart. We have been married now for 35 years. Thanks, Army!!!

Response by Sgt William Bell made Nov 24 at 2021 6:40 PM

Sgt William Bell — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:40:39 -0500

Joined the Marine Corps as a 17 year old 9th grade dropout back in 1965. The Marine Corps taught me discipline, fortitude, and a “can do attitude. After a 4 year enlistment, I knew that if I wanted to be successful, I would need an education. I went back to high school - a Boston based prep school. I graduated and was inducted into “the National Honor Society”. From there I got married to my wife of 51 years and started college with the great help of the VA. I became a Special Education teacher and headed the high school’s department for the better part of 20 years. Without that Marine Corps training and a loving wife, who knows where life would have taken me! Semper Fi!

Response by PO1 Angel Green made Nov 24 at 2021 6:54 PM

PO1 Angel Green — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:54:40 -0500

As a Vietnam-Era vet of the Navy, I am most thankful that the Navy taught me 2 invaluable lessons that carried over well into civilian life. First, I was taught a self-discipline that motivated me to supervise myself so that no one else would feel compelled to do so. Secondly, I was taught to solve problems or "people" issues at the lowest possible level. Good lessons, both.

Response by SMSgt Sheri Riggs made Nov 24 at 2021 6:55 PM

SMSgt Sheri Riggs — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:55:55 -0500

I’m thankful for having the opportunity to serve my country. I’m also thankful that I was able to mentor so many young airmen, as they are the future of our forces. The friendships I made, and the experiences I had will stay with me forever.

Response by PO3 David Barrientos made Nov 24 at 2021 6:56 PM

PO3 David Barrientos — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:56:35 -0500

The opportunity to serve in the world's greatest navy

Response by PO3 Jo Berry made Nov 24 at 2021 7:00 PM

PO3 Jo Berry — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:00:57 -0500

I learned a lot about the medical field, as a Navy Corpsman we drew blood, started ivs, dispensed drugs etc. So much knowledge gained. I still remember most of what I learned and practiced.

Response by TSgt Michelle Chance made Nov 24 at 2021 7:06 PM

TSgt Michelle Chance — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:06:52 -0500

I am most thankful for all the individuals I encountered during my time in the military. We have such great camaraderie. The friendships I have made especially, while in Aviano will be closest to my heart.

Response by PFC Allen Prince made Nov 24 at 2021 7:08 PM

PFC Allen Prince — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:08:07 -0500

I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve my country and to continue the tradition of my family of serving in the military.

Response by Pvt Johnny McDowell made Nov 24 at 2021 7:08 PM

Pvt Johnny McDowell — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:08:50 -0500

At 17 years old, I wanted to get married. I quit school and never looked back. Marine Corps boot camp was my rebirth and the things I learned there have carried me through 60 years of diversity. It is and has always been a comfort to be a part of something bigger than myself. I depend on my brothers to be all I need. Semper Fi is a state of being and I am thankful for my membership.

Response by PO3 Scott Branson made Nov 24 at 2021 7:09 PM

PO3 Scott Branson — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:09:52 -0500

What I am most thankful for from my military experience is the ability to take any situation on any given day and find one positive thing, no matter how bad that day is going. Keep moving forward one foot in front of the other.

Response by 1SG Jose Cerda made Nov 24 at 2021 7:19 PM

1SG Jose Cerda — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:19:18 -0500

I am mostly thankful for the patriotism and pride instilled in me, thanks to God.
Secondly, to all the great leaders and mentors in my 20+ year career. The many opportunities available for upward mobility.

Response by SPC Robert Nasiff made Nov 24 at 2021 7:22 PM

SPC Robert Nasiff — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:22:11 -0500

I volunteered for the Draft in June of 1962 shortly after graduation from HS at age 19. I did so because I felt that if I did not, I would eventually get married and have children and a job and then get drafted and turn my life upside down. So I decided to volunteer and serve. I was sent to the Army Induction center in Ft. Jackson Georgia, then to Ft. Gordon Georgia, then to AIT at Ft. Sill Oklahoma, with my final destination at Schofield Barracks Hawaii! This was just when the Vietnam war was heating up, but at that time they were only accepting volunteers for Nam. In October of 1963, I tried to volunteer for Nam but got turned down with less than a year left to serve. My Brother Also volunteered for the draft in 1963 and was stationed at Ft. Knox Kentucky and also volunteered for Nam and was accepted and served a year there. He made it back unharmed accepting for his exposure to Agent Orange with the high blood pressure, Diabetes, and other ailments that came with it which has affected his life since.

As for me, guess you could say I was lucky to have never made it over there and getting stationed in Hawaii for 18 months as part of the 25th Infantry Division Tropic Lightening. I was there in 1963 when we got word that President Kennedy had been assassinated! I was a member of the 105 Howitzer company as a field chart operator. In those days we had no computers so worked the maps by hand. It was a very interesting time for me, and I actually volunteered once a week to work with people with Leprosy at a near by complex. As a 19 year old, I learned a lot about life not only through the military but also at the Leprosy compound! I know the learning was not anywhere near what those of you who made it into combat did and I not only respect you putting your lives on the line but thank you big time for your service. And the sad thing is how all of you Nam veterans were totally disrespected and often spit on when returning home. I actually suffered the same when I enrolled in College even though I was not in Nam. Back then people just assumed that anyone in military uniform were from Nam and called us all baby killers. And although it bothered me, I can't imagine how it must have bothered all of you Nam vets who made it back.

On humorous note I guess you could say, My first military pay was $59 per month. When I made Spec-4, it went up to $90 per month, and 4 months before I got out, we got a raise to $120 per month. And about 2 years after I got out, the pay for an E1 was raised to $500 per month! lol

And one more story: When I was a senior in HS, in March of 1962, my brother and I got into a big fight with my mother and she threw us out of the house. So I enlisted in the Navy. When I went back to school the next week, told my boy's counselor what I did, but wanted to finish school and graduate in June. So he called the Navy up and asked them to delay taking me until then! When I graduated, I forgot about the Navy enlistment and volunteered for the Draft. When I was in basic training in July of 1964, my parents got a call from the Navy asking why I did not report for duty. And my mother told them I was serving in the Army and they said that wasn't possible. So my mother told them to go check with Ft. Gordon's basic training center and that was that.

In closing, I admit that joining the Army was one of the best learning experiences in my life. And once again my heart filled thanks go to all of you veterans who served in combat zones, as to me you are the real heroes!!!!

Response by SGT Joseph Torres made Nov 24 at 2021 7:23 PM

SGT Joseph Torres — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:23:35 -0500

When I was 19 years old and Train in Fort Jackson I always use to say what’s not possible is possible never give up,, it’s what your mine giving you the positive possibilities.

Response by PO2 Reginald Ross made Nov 24 at 2021 7:29 PM

PO2 Reginald Ross — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:29:07 -0500

I am thankful forthe leadership and being with my shipmates

Response by PO1 Cathy Powers made Nov 24 at 2021 7:30 PM

PO1 Cathy Powers — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:30:20 -0500

I am thankful for the skills I learned. My GI bill and most importantly the people I served with. I love my country and it was an honor to serve her for over 20 Years

Response by PO1 Jennifer Robbins made Nov 24 at 2021 7:36 PM

PO1 Jennifer Robbins — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:36:38 -0500

I am most thankful that I carried on the family tradition by enlisting in the Armed Forces as did the 37 Veterans in my family before me. I am proud to have served beside the very best Sailors.

Response by PO2 Gordon Compeau made Nov 24 at 2021 7:42 PM

PO2 Gordon Compeau — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:42:53 -0500

Thankful for my new VA Doc when I needed the help. I have gotten thru another day.

Response by SPC Johann Brown made Nov 24 at 2021 7:48 PM

SPC Johann Brown — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:48:49 -0500

Spa ret. Johann L Brown

What I am most grateful for from my military service was that I was able to serve as a chaplain assistant At first I was like man I want to be in the fight more but I quickly learned with my first tour of duty that the mission I had was so critical. Along with doing Chapel services for the soldiers, I was honored to be able to preform memorial services for our fallen warriors. I was grateful to help my units press through these hard times.

Response by PO2 Sutra Borgeson made Nov 24 at 2021 7:55 PM

PO2 Sutra Borgeson — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 19:55:27 -0500

After serving as a military brat in an Army family, active duty Navy, and a Marine-corps spouse, I am grateful for all people in my life who remain true friends and well, I call them my family! They have been there for me through all the many hardships of my life. We all share an incredible bond that is never spoken: they have my 6 always and forever! To the people in my life, you know who you are, I am forever grateful of your love, friendship and laughter!

Response by SA Karen Watkins made Nov 24 at 2021 8:09 PM

SA Karen Watkins — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:09:12 -0500

Coming from a military dad, i wanted to do something totally unexpected as a female, so as the first to join (i am the second child of 8) i joined the USN, it was a experience , but i learned alot, mostly i learned that i could do more than what i thought i could ever do, i could push myself farther, experienced working on a tugboat and hard work , i lerarned self respect, and it increased the level of such respect and honour for my country, and the men and women that served or are serving, i loved my unit no matter how hard it was from boot camp until the end, i will never forget any brother or sister in arms and I will have their 6 forever.

Response by SPC Jelisa Edwards made Nov 24 at 2021 8:10 PM

SPC Jelisa Edwards — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:10:23 -0500

What I am most thankful for about my military experience would have to be discipline. I know it sounds so simple ,but growing up I lacked a lot of it because I never had time to be a kid or live a normal life, life hit me fast and because for so long all I could depend on was myself I thought I knew everything. Joining the army and having the experience to be disciplined, have structure, gave me courage, and hope it also gave me a will to be better than what I’ve know or ever had knowledge of. If I had to do everything all over again one thing that would be constant is the time I spent serving my country. I’m extremely grateful and thankful to be a Veteran. Thank you all who taught me the way and showed me a better purpose, all who lost their lives defending this great country and all who served along with me and who are still serving. HOOAH !

Response by SGT Samantha Cox made Nov 24 at 2021 8:10 PM

SGT Samantha Cox — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:10:44 -0500

I am most grateful for the person that I was when I was in the service. The honor. The pride. The camaraderie. I’m grateful for the terrible childhood that the military helped me escape from and yet also see that, in comparison, it really wasn’t just so terrible. I’m grateful for the brotherhood that, to this day, I have yet to find anywhere else.

Response by Sgt Daniel Trevino made Nov 24 at 2021 8:18 PM

Sgt Daniel Trevino — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:18:42 -0500

I am thankful to the good men i was able to serve with on 3 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Some of my closet friends always found a way to pick each other up even in dull moment and down-time, sometimes those can be the worse for a veteran. I will never forget my brothers that can't be here to celebrate these holidays.

Response by PO1 Charles Leoni made Nov 24 at 2021 8:22 PM

PO1 Charles Leoni — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:22:45 -0500

I learned how to work with others as a team, to anticipate the next step and achieve the goal. Made good friends and lasting relationships.

Response by Sgt Bob Robert made Nov 24 at 2021 8:24 PM

Sgt Bob Robert — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:24:34 -0500

I am most thankful about the GI bill, which gave me an education and a pilot's license and a career.

Response by PO3 مهند خجا made Nov 24 at 2021 8:25 PM

PO3 مهند خجا — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:25:28 -0500

I learned that Vets make better civilians so don’t thank me for my service because it was not a service but a duty.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2021 8:43 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:43:58 -0500

Great training and Travel with Scout and TOW Miami - FMF Corpsman Doc Raines

Response by SSgt Anita Elder made Nov 24 at 2021 8:45 PM

SSgt Anita Elder — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:45:02 -0500

I'm thankful that joining the Air Force got me out of my po-dunk town and allowed me to experience relationships with people who grew up much differently than me. I also liked that I got to live in another country and experience their culture.

I'm also grateful that it taught me to be self-reliant and gave me confidence to try anything.

Response by PFC Christopher Goss made Nov 24 at 2021 8:52 PM

PFC Christopher Goss — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:52:28 -0500

I am so thankful for my family friends and Veterans all around the world. The world we live in is a global community. I am a part of that greater community and family. Thank God and thank you to all members of the global community. Family, Family, Family! We are are a part of the family of God at the end of the day. Thank you Family!

Response by PVT Joseph Dean made Nov 24 at 2021 8:57 PM

PVT Joseph Dean — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:57:42 -0500

The long lasting family that I had the honor o serve with and still talk too

Response by PO1 Senia Clark made Nov 24 at 2021 9:07 PM

PO1 Senia Clark — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:07:02 -0500

I am most thankful for the friends that I made who have become family. Regardless of the time and distance between us, those relationships forged during my time of service are among the closest in my life.

Response by SPC Joyce Sorrell Amann made Nov 24 at 2021 9:10 PM

SPC Joyce Sorrell Amann — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:10:13 -0500

My service in the Army continues to affect my life in so many positive ways. From knowing I can handle very difficult situations such as the death of my son then 33 days later the death of my husband. I had to be strong during my service, it taught me to face problems head on to not back down. It also taught that there is power in listening and learning. I am grateful for my military service, it has been an honor to serve this nation. I am who I am today because of my service.

Response by LTC Jim Schultz made Nov 24 at 2021 9:18 PM

LTC Jim Schultz — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:18:19 -0500

Thankful for a lifelong friendship with my Band of Brothers. As we age, we become more and more connected and check up on each other in these uncertain and tumultuous times.

Response by SPC Dale Wilken made Nov 24 at 2021 9:18 PM

SPC Dale Wilken — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:18:50 -0500

I was 17 years old and I feel like so many you grow up fast and learn that you have so many friends that well be there for you at anytime we all helped one another.

Response by SrA Natalie Lessman made Nov 24 at 2021 9:27 PM

SrA Natalie Lessman — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:27:31 -0500

Im thankful for the support of my family, having them helped me get thought all the hard times!

Response by Cpl Cody Latham made Nov 24 at 2021 9:33 PM

Cpl Cody Latham — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:33:21 -0500

I'm most thankful for the leadership skills obtained. I'm also thankful for the life long relationships that were forged during my time in.

Response by SN Lee Fitzkee made Nov 24 at 2021 9:33 PM

SN Lee Fitzkee — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:33:41 -0500

Entering the navy at 18 years old. You learn to grow up fast. I developed some great friendship's on the USS BELLEAU-WOOD LHA-3 and I was truly blessed to see some wonderful places in this world.

Response by SN Harry Conrad made Nov 24 at 2021 9:37 PM

SN Harry Conrad — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:37:15 -0500

Surprisingly, it's not the travel and visiting other countries and cultures. What I am most thankful for is the transformation from boy to man, and the part my service played in creating that scenario. Not just how to be a man, but the important parts of that like helping others. teamwork, and being a good friend. It prepared me in a great way and built a foundation for who I am today. For this I am grateful.

Response by SGT Timothy Conley made Nov 24 at 2021 9:40 PM

SGT Timothy Conley — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:40:57 -0500

I am truly most thankful for my military service having taught me four things: you are only as strong as those you can lean on, always do your homework, if you are not 15 minutes early you are late, and always rely on your training. Those four things have provided me a doctorate degree, two successful carers, and a son who makes me proud every day.

Response by LCpl Robert McCabe made Nov 24 at 2021 9:44 PM

LCpl Robert McCabe — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 21:44:13 -0500

Coming from a family with a single Mother, I'm thankful for the men I served with in the Corps because they became my family and still to this day We get together..been 38 years and would never trade a thing for the Men that became my brothers

Response by SP5 Kenneth Neubauer made Nov 24 at 2021 10:18 PM

SP5 Kenneth Neubauer — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:18:25 -0500

I got to travel around the world from the U
S. To Europe and to the Middle East

Response by PFC Raymond Clark made Nov 24 at 2021 10:21 PM

PFC Raymond Clark — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:21:44 -0500

I was glad that I served my country while being in Vietnam. Unfortunately I was Diagnosed with stage 4 mantle cell lymphoma two years ago. And I am most grateful that the VA chose to give me benefits to help myself and my loved ones for whatever amount of time I have left.

Response by SPC Denis Dean made Nov 24 at 2021 10:29 PM

SPC Denis Dean — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:29:39 -0500

For everyone still posting watch this holiday season and making sure we are all safe

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2021 10:32 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:32:10 -0500

The idea of that I was apart of something way bigger then myself to keep people I love safe and being able to meet the amazing people I had the honor to call bother and sister in arms

Response by LCDR Brett Sandman made Nov 24 at 2021 10:34 PM

LCDR Brett Sandman — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:34:23 -0500

I am most thankful for all of the leaders, peers, military personnel and civilian staff I had the pleasure of serving up/down/across DOD and all external agencies and organizations, including our international partners and allies. I am also thankful for all of the public, private, corporate and nonprofit networking connections who continue to help me and other Veterans navigate civilian career paths.

Response by SPC Wanda Terrell made Nov 24 at 2021 10:39 PM

SPC Wanda Terrell — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:39:54 -0500

I'm most THANKFUL because I had the chance to meet a group of people that started off as fellow soldiers, eventually turned into friends and now 33 yrs later I consider my family!!

Response by Sgt Gwenn Lacy Lowe made Nov 24 at 2021 10:43 PM

Sgt Gwenn Lacy Lowe — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:43:38 -0500

I'm Thankful for the Military, strengthening my caliber of character, growing me backbone with Military Bearing, enough to not waddle in Quiting, but to get up, not give up on myself or loved ones when times got/get tough for them or me. IN GOD I /WE TRUST...

Response by CPL Jessi Ann Tutolo made Nov 24 at 2021 10:43 PM

CPL Jessi Ann Tutolo — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:43:50 -0500

Where to start? A prissy know it all that thought I had all the answers to the world. Had just given birth to my second child and knew I needed to make a difference in the lives of my little ones and Enlisted in the Army. If there ever was a real life "Private Benjamin ", I was her. I couldn't do anything well except get in trouble. I couldn't shoot, I was horrible at everything but.... The Army wouldn't let me fail if I didn't give up on myself. I never have and owe it to my experiences I had while active duty. Hands down... The best decision I ever made!

Response by PFC Jamie Webb made Nov 24 at 2021 10:45 PM

PFC Jamie Webb — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:45:01 -0500

I am most thankful for the people I met in the military. Specifically, my wife who I met when stationed in South Korea.

Response by PFC Michael Acree made Nov 24 at 2021 10:55 PM

PFC Michael Acree — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:55:23 -0500

Being in The Old Guard taught me about the Army's rich history, introduce me to the President, Dignitaries, heads of state & even movie stars. To always give it my all. To adapt and overcome all obstacles. To work as a team. I can keep going for hours. I AM ARMY STRONG!

Response by SrA Melissa Marsh made Nov 24 at 2021 10:57 PM

SrA Melissa Marsh — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:57:59 -0500

I'm thankful for the "no excuses" attitude and the ability to find my passion in conservation.

Response by SGT Douglas Ott made Nov 24 at 2021 11:01 PM

SGT Douglas Ott — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:01:18 -0500

The chance to serve my country. I continued to so that when I transitioned to civilian life until I retired this year.

Response by SPC Edgar Jordan made Nov 24 at 2021 11:05 PM

SPC Edgar Jordan — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:05:19 -0500

To be alive and somewhat well

Response by SPC Sandra Allen made Nov 24 at 2021 11:07 PM

SPC Sandra Allen — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:07:15 -0500

I am most thankful for meeting me most valued best friend for many years and now husband of two years. He has been a rock for me during my most dark and difficult times as I hope I can be for him as well. I am also thankful for the years of service in which I was able to serve my country and grow as an individual during that time. In doing so I was also able to earn funds to pay for my college tuition which I am also grateful to have been able to receive.

Response by SGT Mario Bravo made Nov 24 at 2021 11:29 PM

SGT Mario Bravo — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:29:29 -0500

Thankful for given the opportunity to be a part of something bigger then myself. The service gave me great pride in knowing I was fighting for my family, community, my country and all its freedoms. I hold that pride deep in my heart to this day and carry it with me in everything that I do! I love my country and my only regret is that I only have 1 life to give for it. THANK YOU.
Let Freedom Ring!!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2021 11:30 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:30:04 -0500

thankful for all the friends that sent me letters while overseas!

Response by AN Sherry Faulkner made Nov 24 at 2021 11:38 PM

AN Sherry Faulkner — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:38:08 -0500

My experience in the Navy was my first step toward independence and growth. I learned how to appreciate other people and cultures without prejudice or judging. I got the best form of education and that was hands on. It helped me love others as myself and stand up for others less fortunate than myself. We are truly one nation under God.

Response by LCDR Paul Bainbridge made Nov 24 at 2021 11:52 PM

LCDR Paul Bainbridge — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:52:56 -0500

I am thankful for having the opportunity to serve this great nation and to lead, follow, and, learn from outstanding leadership. As a Naval Aviator, I have had the awesome responsibility to train and develop the next generation of Aviators in the Navy and US Marine Corps. I sleep soundly knowing they are there to answer the Nations call should the need ever arise. God Bless our Armed Forces!

Response by SPC Christina Cortez made Nov 25 at 2021 12:01 AM

SPC Christina Cortez — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:01:52 -0500

I am grateful for all the wonderful people I met along the way. Battle buddies for life

Response by SrA Harvey Yamada made Nov 25 at 2021 12:04 AM

SrA Harvey Yamada — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:04:31 -0500

Experiencing things I might not have had a chance if I hadn’t served in the military. The friendships and connections I made during and after with fellow veterans and service members. The educational benefits that are tangible and those that are not tangible like shared memories and comradery with fellow veterans.

Response by LT Leon Heselton made Nov 25 at 2021 12:06 AM

LT Leon Heselton — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:06:18 -0500

I am most thankful to the Navy for placing me as an Electronic Technician, a career I have followed my whole life. In the Navy/Naval Reserve I advanced to WO-2, ET, before accepting a direct commision as a LTJG retiring as an O3-E with 25 1/2 years service. In civilian life I went to college to first become a Lab Technician, then an Electronics Engineer with the DoD. Thereafter I taught Electrical Technology and pursued a Masters degree at Clarkson University. At my last college I became Department Head which was a fulfilling job.

Response by Maj Deirdre Noble made Nov 25 at 2021 12:19 AM

Maj Deirdre Noble — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:19:23 -0500

Entering the Air Force after university provided the best professional training opportunity I could have hoped for--I learned how to deliver more than was expected, work with a team, and be a part of something bigger than myself. I am thankful for the best start to my professional career. I am where I am, or who I am thanks to the Air Force.

Response by CPL Brandon Castleberry made Nov 25 at 2021 12:19 AM

CPL Brandon Castleberry — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:19:32 -0500

Just being honest I had a very rough childhood and grew up only being able to depend on myself and never being able to trust anyone. During my time in service I learned I was able to rely on my fellow soldiers without fail! Building trust, working as a team and having each others backs really changed my life well beyond the military. I am forever grateful for the experience as I wonder if I would've ever been able to trust others enough to have the life I have now without it. I now have an amazing wife and amazing kids that are my "team" I can always rely on in my civilian life now.

Response by GySgt Rodney Hendricks made Nov 25 at 2021 12:20 AM

GySgt Rodney Hendricks — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:20:55 -0500

The Marines gave me direction at 21 when I had no clue of what I wanted to do. I was lost as a HS drop out, no job and living at home, running the street. I’m very thankful to my recruiter. After boot camp I really saw the difference. I had gain self pride. Thanks USMC

Response by PO2 Sade Sibley made Nov 25 at 2021 12:53 AM

PO2 Sade Sibley — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:53:39 -0500

I'm most thankful for the travel, I experienced things and seen places I once thought I wouldn't ever experience. I am forever grateful to the Navy for broadening my harizons.

Response by CPO Buck Rogers made Nov 25 at 2021 12:56 AM

CPO Buck Rogers — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:56:44 -0500

friends and Family are safe back home.

Response by PO1 Bobby Barron made Nov 25 at 2021 1:00 AM

PO1 Bobby Barron — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:00:03 -0500

I am mostly thankful for being part of a government service that was so filled with honorable and well educated officers. I learned so much from being on the bridge that otherwise I would have never known.

Response by TSgt Shannon Bliton made Nov 25 at 2021 1:00 AM

TSgt Shannon Bliton — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:00:38 -0500

I’m thankful I had the opportunity to serve. It allowed me to challenge myself in ways I never knew possible. I experienced things that I can’t describe. I made life long friends who are now my family.

Response by SP5 Alex Lee made Nov 25 at 2021 1:01 AM

SP5 Alex Lee — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:01:17 -0500

I'm grateful for my health, my family and being to help others in my line of work

Response by SPC Mark McCutcheon made Nov 25 at 2021 1:08 AM

SPC Mark McCutcheon — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:08:45 -0500

Joined the military late at 28 to further my career. Spent some time overseas and had so many amazing experiences and received training and education free of charge. I was almost always safe and never was shot at directly. I feel so lucky to have received so much for only 8 years of service. The Army has enabled me to provide for my family for a lifetime. Thanks to my military leaders and buddies looking out for me. Hope I was able to do the same for them and others now in the future.

Response by Sgt Edward Rempala made Nov 25 at 2021 1:15 AM

Sgt Edward Rempala — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:15:33 -0500

I am thankful for the Marine Corps for giving me the chance & the opportunities of seeing other countries that i would never be able to see or afford to get the chance of meeting the people that live in these countries and getting to know their great and beautiful country their habits and the way they live. Thank you US MARINE CORPS

Response by LCpl Anna Davila made Nov 25 at 2021 1:16 AM

LCpl Anna Davila — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:16:23 -0500

I lost my mom this year on August 23 rd 2021. I had a friend who was once my NCO that I looked up to like a sister. who currently lives all the way in Japan find out without me even telling her (like all big sisters do , right ?) called me and also sent some financial help with my mothers funeral expanses. Any time I needed I help while we’re in both serving from question about regulations , fitness , or how to approve on myself she still continues to do so. A bond I can’t imagine creating anywhere else.
Semper Fi

Response by SPC Cody Anderson made Nov 25 at 2021 1:26 AM

SPC Cody Anderson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:26:20 -0500

The bonds of brotherhood, I am still in contact with many after several years. There is nothing like it on the planet.

Response by SPC Cody Anderson made Nov 25 at 2021 1:27 AM

SPC Cody Anderson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:27:24 -0500

The bonds of brotherhood with all my fellow soldiers. There is nothing else like it on the planet

Response by Cpl Juan Joyce made Nov 25 at 2021 1:37 AM

Cpl Juan Joyce — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:37:18 -0500

For the opportunity to give back to my country for all that it provides for us.

Response by LTJG Amanda McCasland made Nov 25 at 2021 1:40 AM

LTJG Amanda McCasland — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:40:29 -0500

Friends that turned into family and knowing I have these family members all over the world

Response by CPL Che Scott made Nov 25 at 2021 1:48 AM

CPL Che Scott — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:48:25 -0500

The Army College Fund gave me the opportunity to be the first one in my family to attend college to earn my BA and MA. I now work at a high school as a counselor to help others obtain their dream.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 1:51 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:51:17 -0500

Being on my second deployment, I’m thankful for all the people I have been forced to meet and interact with, and all the different places the military has been willing to send me.

Response by PO2 Joan MacNeill made Nov 25 at 2021 1:55 AM

PO2 Joan MacNeill — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:55:31 -0500

Showing me that I had a functional brain. I had been an underachiever, only motivated by what I liked. I learned that I liked a lot more than I imagined, and I could learn and do the necessary. I discovered pride.
I'm also grateful for the chance to meet people and see places from all over the country and the world. That's another great education!
I had been too trusting. I suppose I should thank a few of those people for showing me that not everyone is as honest and wonderful as I am.

Response by PVT Wendy Morey made Nov 25 at 2021 1:57 AM

PVT Wendy Morey — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:57:33 -0500

The fact that in any life or death situation I keep my attention on how to fix the situation and never panic. This has been very helpful since my husband and son both have terminal cancer.

Response by SrA Shaun Morris made Nov 25 at 2021 2:02 AM

SrA Shaun Morris — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 02:02:30 -0500

The Air Force made a responsible and productive person out of me, and made me grow up.

Response by PO3 Morgan Miner made Nov 25 at 2021 2:04 AM

PO3 Morgan Miner — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 02:04:59 -0500

I am thankful for everything I learned while I was in the Navy. From how to conduct myself in the presence of others

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 2:13 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 02:13:55 -0500

I am thankful for all of the experiences, memories, and friendships.

Response by Capt Sylvia DeBorger made Nov 25 at 2021 2:49 AM

Capt Sylvia DeBorger — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 02:49:26 -0500

I am so thankful for the learning experiences I had and the friends I made during my years of service. I am thankful and proud to be able to claim the title of "veteran."

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 3:06 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 03:06:11 -0500

I am very grateful for the experience and training I received from the United States Marine Corps

Response by Sgt Joshua Shelton made Nov 25 at 2021 3:26 AM

Sgt Joshua Shelton — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 03:26:06 -0500

Comraderly with my brothers and sisters in uniform.

Response by PO2 Joshua Buzzard made Nov 25 at 2021 3:38 AM

PO2 Joshua Buzzard — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 03:38:12 -0500

The ability to study. Going through Nuke School taught me how to study in ways I never would have otherwise. This has been the lynchpin for all of my successes.

Response by CPL Shawlee Williams made Nov 25 at 2021 3:40 AM

CPL Shawlee Williams — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 03:40:21 -0500

What I am most thankful for about my Military Experience during my time of service would most definitely have to be the appreciation for the freedoms the U.S. allows it’s citizens. And it definitely taught me how to live my life in extreme gratitude for each and everyday and the wonderful blessings in my life! The military will shape anyones finite perspective on life and develop a new meaning for how precious life and it’s journey really is!

Response by AN Satnam Gfeller made Nov 25 at 2021 4:19 AM

AN Satnam Gfeller — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 04:19:20 -0500

I am thankful for being exactly where I am at this very moment.

Response by SPC Michelle Wells made Nov 25 at 2021 4:33 AM

SPC Michelle Wells — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 04:33:06 -0500

I'm grateful for learning how to push myself through tough issues even when I wanted to quit. It helped me tremendously once I became a civilian again and had to raise 3 kids after my spouse realized he no longer wanted a family life. I was able to push through low income jobs to learn skills that would be stepping stones to going to school to be an electrician. The trials and tribulations of military life put me in the mindset to put pain aside and focus on the task at hand. It allowed me to realize my true potential and move on regardless of how difficult things were. I was able get into jobs that were considered as non traditional for women and excel. I learned residential, commercial and industrial electrical work and found I truly loved being able to start a project and work through completion with a sense if pride for myself. It was not easy due to the fact I was the only female on the job at times and was usually set up to fail. The military taught me to do my best and prove others wrong when they believed I couldn't do something. It taught me to have pride in myself in order to achieve the goals set for me. It taught me to never give up on myself when others have.

Response by CPL Monica Brooks made Nov 25 at 2021 4:45 AM

CPL Monica Brooks — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 04:45:17 -0500

I am thankful for all of the life lessons in my four short years. These skills allowed me to grow up (quick) and take charge of my own life. Happy Thanksgiving ya’ll!

Response by SSgt Sergio Santos made Nov 25 at 2021 5:24 AM

SSgt Sergio Santos — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 05:24:58 -0500

I went into the AF at 19 knowing the basic of electronics and while I was in, I learned even more about electronic circuits and eventually learned how to repair ATC radios and then navigational landing systems. When I got out of the AF, my experience with electronics and NAVAIDS, led me to get a job with the FAA which led to a lifestyle I never dreamed of: well paying job, car and house ownership, and frequent vacations. Had it not been for the AF, I probably wouldn’t have this lifestyle.

Response by 1stSgt Edwin Keeney made Nov 25 at 2021 5:31 AM

1stSgt Edwin Keeney — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 05:31:10 -0500

Joining at 19, I acquired a variety of skills that carried me through my 26 years of active duty. My first supervisor told me I would ALWAYS learn from EVERYONE I encountered. What to do and NOT to do from every supervisor. Being able to apply certain skills including; supervisory/management skills, conflict resolution, delegating and MOST IMPORTANTLY, how to take care of your subordinates.

Response by SGT Evan McIntire made Nov 25 at 2021 5:38 AM

SGT Evan McIntire — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 05:38:38 -0500

A chance to serve my country

Response by TSgt Damon Huddleston made Nov 25 at 2021 5:49 AM

TSgt Damon Huddleston — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 05:49:54 -0500

Thanks

Response by SrA Aspir Befreier made Nov 25 at 2021 6:04 AM

SrA Aspir Befreier — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 06:04:10 -0500

I most thankful that globally, white people are finally waking up to the wars being raged against them. How they've come to realize countries like America have been lost to them. That what their forefathers pained, bled, and died for has been sold to alien rule, namely, that of the jew. Time approaches when the anger will no longer be contained and the white man's wrath will fury like that of our Sun. Traitors will cower but will never be safe.
Happy Thanksgiving.

Response by PVT Michele Bowman made Nov 25 at 2021 6:11 AM

PVT Michele Bowman — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 06:11:42 -0500

I am most grateful and thankful for life, an intimate relationship with God, my sons, grandchildren, family, friends and my five senses. So much more I can say but I'll stop here.

Response by SPC Adrea Benedetti made Nov 25 at 2021 6:21 AM

SPC Adrea Benedetti — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 06:21:06 -0500

I am Truly grateful for the experiences, relationship, and most of all... I have a home and food to eat daily that i can share with my community

Response by PO3 Christine Hart made Nov 25 at 2021 6:23 AM

PO3 Christine Hart — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 06:23:11 -0500

I'm thankful for everything the military taught me. To be resilient, to take any challenge head-on, and be resourceful. I feel it prepared me for my work in the healthcare field, as well as dealing with a son with cerebral palsy and another son with PTSD & alcoholism from his time in the military. I'm also thankful for all my friends and family who have had my 6 when I needed it.

Response by SP5 Arthur Irving Sr. made Nov 25 at 2021 6:38 AM

SP5 Arthur Irving Sr. — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 06:38:15 -0500

Thankful for my beautiful, supportive wife. I met her, by letter, while I was in Vietnam the first time. We have been married for 53 years, and she is the best thing that ever happened to me.

Response by Sgt Fredric Garms made Nov 25 at 2021 6:46 AM

Sgt Fredric Garms — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 06:46:53 -0500

The friendship that was forged like steel with my Marine Brothers when I served with Marine Detachment USS NIMITZ CVN-68 back in November 1974. In the last six months several of us have reconnected with each other thanks to social media. We are all now in our late sixties and really wondering where all then time went to. Pretty soon it will be 50 years since we reported to Parris Island for recruit training. Hopefully we will celebrate many more Marine Corps Birthdays together! OORAH!

Response by MAJ Russell Sanderson made Nov 25 at 2021 7:03 AM

MAJ Russell Sanderson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 07:03:48 -0500

I am grateful to God, that while I wasn't saved at the time, He kept me safe and allowed me to successfully med-evac many wounded soldiers in Vietnam.

Response by PVT Glenn Boyd made Nov 25 at 2021 7:16 AM

PVT Glenn Boyd — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 07:16:42 -0500

What I am thankful for today is that God allowed me to see another day I look back over the these past years how many people they lost their lives doing due to the pandemic I would love one our friends and family members coworkers servicemen's men in prison homeless people people that just died because of the pandemic means millions of people so I'm truly thankful that he allowed me to be here today to spend with my family here in Sears Ville Tennessee I'm thankful

Response by PO2 Paul Balliett made Nov 25 at 2021 8:02 AM

PO2 Paul Balliett — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:02:19 -0500

My US NAVY service instilled in my a work ethic and respect for authority that has been with me since I served from 1965-1968 and has carried through my entire career working a normal job and to this very day.

Response by A1C Mark Nevius made Nov 25 at 2021 8:05 AM

A1C Mark Nevius — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:05:22 -0500

I'm very thankful for the Air Force for hooking up my wife and me. This all came about in 1982 and although my wife died in 2007, she have us a wonderful beautiful daughter who has grown up to be the sun in my days and my stars at night. I wouldn't change a thing.

Response by PFC Jim Rodman made Nov 25 at 2021 8:05 AM

PFC Jim Rodman — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:05:30 -0500

I’m Thankful that at 17 I was able to sever my country and for the people who turned me in to the person I am today. Other then my ptsd and other medical conditions caused by my service i am still thankful that I was able to serve

Response by PO3 Andrew Larson made Nov 25 at 2021 8:05 AM

PO3 Andrew Larson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:05:44 -0500

I am most thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the United States of America. I created this and became another link in the chain of honor and strength of the greatest nation ever.

Response by PFC Jim Rodman made Nov 25 at 2021 8:11 AM

PFC Jim Rodman — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:11:54 -0500

I’m thankful that at 17 I was able to serve my country and for the people who made me the man I am today. Even with my PTSD and other medical issues do to my service I’m still thankful I was able to serve my country . I took an oath back then 45 years ago that didn’t have a expiration date and in my heart still stands today and still thankful for the experience PFC Rodman

Response by CPO James Barnhart made Nov 25 at 2021 8:17 AM

CPO James Barnhart — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:17:40 -0500

I am thankful that I served in the USN. It was a real privilege. I started at 18, had no direction for my life, with nothing going for me. I thought I wanted submarine service, until I learned that they came back to where they started, instead of traveling to many countries. I got to see 14 countries, and I know that the USA is the best place to be. I learned leadership, maturity and engineering skills. I had so many service friends and still keep in touch with a couple of them. Now, I have some friends that served in the other services.

Response by SPC Cherie Noel made Nov 25 at 2021 8:21 AM

SPC Cherie Noel — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:21:02 -0500

My battle buddies. At duty stations, during training maneuvers, and in war theaters they had my back..
But never so much as when I became a veteran. Yeah. Damn thankful for my Army family.

Response by SGT Glenn E Moody made Nov 25 at 2021 8:22 AM

SGT Glenn E Moody — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:22:35 -0500

thankful for the friends I have made the respect giving by all that have served no matter the branch if I had to do it all over again I would in A heartbeat pray you all have A great & happy thanksgiving stay safe to all who cant be home with your Family just know your other MILITARY BROTHERS & SISTERS ARE THINKING OF YOU STAY SAFE WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOU

Response by TSgt Michael LeBlanc made Nov 25 at 2021 8:29 AM

TSgt Michael LeBlanc — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:29:46 -0500

I’m thankful for the experiences and the lifelong friendships that I’ve made in the military. Happy thanksgiving everyone!

Response by SSG Henry Palmer made Nov 25 at 2021 8:31 AM

SSG Henry Palmer — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:31:10 -0500

my military career changed my life i was raised in a racist family when i joined the military it showed me were all brothers and sisters and it doesnt matter what race or nationality we are we all bleed the same color im retired now after almost 35 years and miss my brothers and sisters in arms more than i do most of my family

Response by SFC David Xanten made Nov 25 at 2021 8:36 AM

SFC David Xanten — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:36:26 -0500

Being part of something much larger than you can imagine is awesome. I spent twenty years doing things I never thought I was capable of and loving every minute. Vietnam taught me to live every minute as you never know if will be your last. I made friends there that I still keep in touch with. They are truly my brothers and I am so grateful for that.

Response by SP5 Patrick Lewis made Nov 25 at 2021 8:45 AM

SP5 Patrick Lewis — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:45:03 -0500

Nineteen years old and one year out from high school, I found myself in the highlands of Viet Nam. My friends helped my to get through my 14 months. Although I have forgot many of there names and young faces, I will never forget what they did for our country and me. Thank you and happy. Thanksgiving to everyone.

Response by PFC Bob Bianculli made Nov 25 at 2021 8:47 AM

PFC Bob Bianculli — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:47:22 -0500

Thankful for the opportunity to serve my country, and experience new places, and new friends.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 8:49 AM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:49:31 -0500

I am thankful for the scholarship opportunity in college years, and then the residency program to advance my degree. The stable career has helped me provide for my family during pandemic. Thank you!

Response by 1SG Charles Rupert made Nov 25 at 2021 8:54 AM

1SG Charles Rupert — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:54:21 -0500

Comradery and life long friends

Response by TSgt Larry Abernathy made Nov 25 at 2021 8:59 AM

TSgt Larry Abernathy — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:59:28 -0500

I am thankful for the training I was offered & given while being part of the armed services. I am also thankful for the experiences that I would have never had anywhere else.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:11 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:11:12 -0500

Camaraderie and life-long friendships.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:14 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:14:36 -0500

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:16 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:16:55 -0500

Fort Devens AIT for Morse Code Interceptor course.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:17:46 -0500

General Frederick J. Kroesen's pilots.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:18 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:18:07 -0500

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:18 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:18:55 -0500

Stenographer for General Glen K. Otis, CINCUSAREUR

Response by MSgt John Crase made Nov 25 at 2021 9:19 AM

MSgt John Crase — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:19:29 -0500

I'm thankful that I retired before Biden and all the liberal snowflakes destroyed the military.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:19 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:19:50 -0500

Graduating from Military Counterintelligence Course at Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:20 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:20:34 -0500

My CI Class at Fort Huachuca, Arizona

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:21 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:21:52 -0500

Graduating from Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:26 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:26:30 -0500

The camaraderie with other soldiers at different duty assignments and the life-long friendships from those assignments.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 9:27 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:27:13 -0500

Assignment as the SSO NCO, G2, Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Response by Sgt Hazel Abraham made Nov 25 at 2021 9:27 AM

Sgt Hazel Abraham — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:27:29 -0500

My son was born while on active duty. I am thankful for him.

Response by CWO2 William Stephenson made Nov 25 at 2021 9:30 AM

CWO2 William Stephenson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:30:05 -0500

JESUS.

Response by AA David Felix made Nov 25 at 2021 9:30 AM

AA David Felix — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:30:36 -0500

After completing four years of service, I returned to civilian life. That meant a whole new world of different experiences for me. I then worked at the Swissôtel, Boston and Boston Harbor Hotel for a period of time. I decided to tap into the call center environment where I gained most of my knowledge and work experience in handling customer service.
I took a closer look at the direction of my next career move. Having been in the hospitality industry before, upgrading rooms and cross-selling restaurants was natural to me. I had knowledge of the local area and restaurants and places to go which showed my visitors that I knew my stuff. Additionally, with encouragement from friends and family, I wanted to focus on the hospitality industry. I knew being out of school for 25 years would bring much anxiety about doing well, but going back to school at the Community College of Rhode Island to further my educational goals was essential to focus on my career goals. But I persevered and was on the Dean’s List for the first three of my four semesters at CCRI. I graduated this past summer with a certificate in Hospitality Management, with honors.

In the end, those four years in the Navy are surely paying off. The GI Bill not only picked up my tuition and living expenses while I was at CCRI, but now it is paying my full fare to Johnson and Wales, including all expenses, books, and a living stipend. It is hard to be a commuter and work part-time while in school; however, it is making students like me stronger than your typical four-year college student.

Response by SPC Robert Lecuyer made Nov 25 at 2021 9:32 AM

SPC Robert Lecuyer — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:32:56 -0500

Joining the US Army just twelve days after turning seventeen years old and thinking I knew everything I had a surprise in store for me. The military took the punk boy with hair down to the small of my back and transformed him into a man learning humility and respect, also I was uneducated but was able to complete my education while serving. I truly believe today’s youth would and should benefit from the military experience.

Response by Sgt Gary Beck made Nov 25 at 2021 9:33 AM

Sgt Gary Beck — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:33:43 -0500

Where ever we go in life there will be good and not so good. I personally worked with very good people. There was one who was one of the grumpiest old MS who threw caution to the wind. I knew him after active service working for a contractor and he knew he was going to die soon from exposure to agent orange. He was a great hero to this country but no one will know unless the story is told. I'm certain they classified the incident that I was reading about in reader's digest magazine ,the difference was and he told me by filling in the blanks. I don't how many people may know but I do and I will always honor him. My answer for the survey will be that I had the pleasure and honor of meeting some of the finest men whether active or reserve or thru contractors.

Response by SSG Christopher Cannon made Nov 25 at 2021 9:34 AM

SSG Christopher Cannon — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:34:41 -0500

This page has saved my life by being able to remember good times thank you

Response by SMSgt George Cutler made Nov 25 at 2021 9:37 AM

SMSgt George Cutler — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:37:14 -0500

Appreciate life and be appreciative of what I’ve been blessed with

Response by SrA Amber Harris made Nov 25 at 2021 9:42 AM

SrA Amber Harris — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:42:07 -0500

I'm thankful that I was given so many new experiences and opportunities that I would've never had if I stayed in my tiny Midwestern hometown. I learned how to lead and how to put my interests aside and focus on others. I'm thankful to those who helped me along the way.

Response by 1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel made Nov 25 at 2021 9:43 AM

1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:43:48 -0500

A Blessed Thanksgiving Day to all of our veterans, current service members, and families! I give thanks each and every day for the experiences I had in the military. I “grew up” on active duty and had an unparalleled amount of clinical experience in emergency medicine. This experience prepared me for a very long and successful career in teaching Paramedics and eventually all allied health professionals by teaching them their required 3 semester sequence of human anatomy & physiology. While now retired from college teaching I continue my thanksgiving to God by serving as a Lutheran Pastor.

Without the Air Force at that time in my life who knows what kind of man I would have become. Yes, I did learn how to safely “rebel” while on active duty as well. Coming from an abusive childhood and adolescence, I learned how to rebel without hurting anyone, a non-malicious rebellion that balanced my future life of service to God. I am a preacher of God’s grace; the fact that God loves us for His own sake…He died for my sins and yours, and rose triumphantly to show us that we too will now live eternally in a new heaven and earth where a military will no longer be needed, and no one will need a paramedic or physician as there will be no more disease, or death, or pain!

I pray God’s grace and blessing to each and every one of you both now and forevermore!

Response by PO3 Barry Litchfield made Nov 25 at 2021 9:57 AM

PO3 Barry Litchfield — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:57:00 -0500

I'm thankful for the training I received in the US Navy. Just out of boot camp, I was first stationed on a fleet oiler, USS Ponchatoula, home ported at Pearl Harbor. We deployed to Vietnam. On the way back to Pearl Harbor, I requested to go to photography school. Our XO, Commander Joe Thomas, approved my request and as soon as we arrived in Pearl Harbor, I was sent to Pensacola Florida for photography school. After completing Photography school I was stationed at Fleet Training Group at Pearl Harbor. I used the skills I learned in the Navy the rest of my working career.

Response by PO2 Doc Wallace made Nov 25 at 2021 10:00 AM

PO2 Doc Wallace — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:00:19 -0500

The service gave me a four year break in eduction to worrk on who I wanted to be. It also taught be a lot about dependability.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 10:06 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:06:43 -0500

It was a place that I finally fit in and felt like not just I, but that we all belonged, we all felt like the outcasts from our families or hometowns. There was this close brotherhood that I had never known before, and found brothers that at anytime I’d do anything that I could for them and vise versa. Besides just the extended family I have gained, it was how the marine corps taught me that no matter what I was strong enough to deal with any situation because you are often in the a situation of figure it the fuck out and that mentality got rid of the anxiety I used to have prior to the military. Because of my time in service I’m able to look at any situation and say I’ll figure this out and come out on top. Fuckin Rah!

Response by SP5 John Brown made Nov 25 at 2021 10:12 AM

SP5 John Brown — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:12:15 -0500

I am Most Thankful to the V A , for helping me Be a Man.! I flew on my " 1st" commercial airplane , age 19, Jan 1967. To South East Asia. As a Troop Transport / Med-Evac Helicopter Crew-chief , I am also Most thankful for the V A , ( many Years later ) , reaching out to me,( with my PTSD ) and Bringing Me into, " The Fold". Rally Point has been , " The Icing on The Cake. Thank You.

Response by Pvt Tim Varley made Nov 25 at 2021 10:16 AM

Pvt Tim Varley — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:16:33 -0500

I've lost several relatives this year and I am THANKFUL that they were ALL a very important part of my life!

Response by SrA Janet Manzullo made Nov 25 at 2021 10:23 AM

SrA Janet Manzullo — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:23:20 -0500

As a young woman in the Air Force I was pretty naïve about the amazing rights we have in America until I served over in Iraq seeing what women had to go through and not be able to do for example ware nail polish on their fingernails get to see their faces. Those are just some of the simple things that we take it for granted in the US I am very humble and grateful and thankful to be born in America and have the freedoms we do. I grew up a lot during my military experience it wouldn’t change it for the world. I have become a mature woman. I have three beautiful children and a wonderful husband, and even through the ups and downs of life I know how to survive and strive because the military taught me how. God bless the Air Force God bless the military and God bless the USA

Response by 1stSgt Deborah J Anderson made Nov 25 at 2021 10:25 AM

1stSgt Deborah J Anderson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:25:46 -0500

My faith in God and my family of military across the globe

Response by SFC Kandi Temple made Nov 25 at 2021 10:29 AM

SFC Kandi Temple — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:29:56 -0500

I'm very thankful for the real-world experience, knowledge and training I gained. I'm thankful for all the places I went and people I met and life-long brothers and sisters.

Response by Cpl Douglas Wuenschel made Nov 25 at 2021 10:34 AM

Cpl Douglas Wuenschel — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:34:28 -0500

I am most thankful for being part of a team and learning leadership skills.

Response by PO2 Stephen Bonelli made Nov 25 at 2021 10:47 AM

PO2 Stephen Bonelli — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:47:33 -0500

I am most thankful for my military service being able to support and to defend freedom around the world.

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made Nov 25 at 2021 10:48 AM

SPC Lyle Montgomery — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:48:00 -0500

At 18 years old it was kind of an adventure. It proved that I could do things that I didn't know that I could never do. It made me grow up some although when I got married a year after my ETS, I realised that I still had a lot of growing up to do. It made me a veteran which I'm proud of. I only did 2 years but it was as as an Army infantry grunt in Vietnam so it wasn't the best job in the Army I'm having medical problems from my time there but I have no regrets of my time in the Army and am thankful for the VA treatment that I receive now.

Response by CMSgt Melody Smith made Nov 25 at 2021 10:49 AM

CMSgt Melody Smith — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:49:08 -0500

Joining the military took me from a dysfunctional childhood to a path of learning what it takes to be disciplined, motivated, and professional. As I transitioned to being an Airman, I learned the importance of following directions and orders. There were so many lessons, not all which were pleasant, that led me to becoming a teacher. I am proud to have served for 27 years, and retired as a CMSgt in the Tennessee Air National Guard Headquarters, and also retired from Teaching. To those around me, it is evident I am very patriotic and strongly believe in helping others, in an effort to build relationships and a sense of community. I also understand the importance of duty, support, and pride, as a result of having served.

Response by 1SG Clifford Barnes made Nov 25 at 2021 10:49 AM

1SG Clifford Barnes — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:49:43 -0500

It made me appreciate what I have at home. All my deployments showed me just how great America is. I served with good Men and Women and would not change anything Hooah

Response by SGT Michael O'Malley made Nov 25 at 2021 11:01 AM

SGT Michael O'Malley — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:01:14 -0500

It broke me and rebuilt me. It instilled in me a sense of core values (God, Country, Honor) that were resolute then and remain within me today. I survived the Tet Offensive - and for that I am humbled and grateful.
GOD BLESS THE USA...

Sgt. Mickey O'MAlley

Response by Maj Jill Feig made Nov 25 at 2021 11:01 AM

Maj Jill Feig — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:01:56 -0500

My service in the US Air Force and US Army Reserve gave me everything I have today: my education and training in Preventive Medicine, meeting my husband, learning valuable team and leadership skills, an appreciation of working with people from different backgrounds & life experiences, a GI bill for re-education in graphic design, and continued access to wonderful benefits! The good and the bad experiences shaped me into who I am today. For that, I am truly grateful.

Response by 1LT Stan Lewis made Nov 25 at 2021 11:05 AM

1LT Stan Lewis — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:05:21 -0500

I’m most thankful I am no longer a pawn for the political leaders. Took me awhile to figure it out once you get past the flashy I’m in military garb.

Response by 1LT Stan Lewis made Nov 25 at 2021 11:08 AM

1LT Stan Lewis — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:08:43 -0500

Guess they only show pro military comments. Can’t be thankful for not being in the military I guess. Fubar.

Response by PV2 Billy (Woody) Allen made Nov 25 at 2021 11:13 AM

PV2 Billy (Woody) Allen — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:13:45 -0500

Serving in the US Army gave me a connection to my country that others may never experience. I love the quote “To those who have fought for it, freedom has a flavor that the protected will never know.” It also gives me a sense of pride to be connected to the men, women and animals that are serving or has served our great country. I can go anywhere and meet a veteran and feel a sense of brotherhood or sisterhood. Coming back from Vietnam wasn't easy, but I would do it all over again. Being a veteran I have the mindset that I am a survivor and I can do anything.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 11:14 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:14:23 -0500

As a current service member ending my military career soon I am truly thankful for the Army giving me structure, direction, a sense of belonging and lifelong friends. When I first joined I had no idea what I wanted to do in life but in a few months I figured it out and the rest is history. I'm truly grateful for the experience and wouldn't trade it for nothing. Salute to all my fellow veterans

Response by AA Loreen Silvarahawk made Nov 25 at 2021 11:17 AM

AA Loreen Silvarahawk — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:17:13 -0500

Integrity above all else. This has been my forte in many situations in and out of the service.

Response by PO1 Robin Lien made Nov 25 at 2021 11:17 AM

PO1 Robin Lien — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:17:21 -0500

I am most thankful for all of the different places I traveled to that allowed me to experience people and cultures all over this planet. I can’t express what a life changing experience that was.

Response by LCDR Jt Greeno made Nov 25 at 2021 11:23 AM

LCDR Jt Greeno — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:23:46 -0500

I am very thankful for the leadership qualities I learned... They helped me immensely after I left the service.

Response by PO1 Thomas Williams made Nov 25 at 2021 11:24 AM

PO1 Thomas Williams — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:24:58 -0500

I am most tankful for the life long friendships I made with my fellow shipmates and service members, 35 years of friendship that will always be there.

Response by Sgt Jerry Genesio made Nov 25 at 2021 11:35 AM

Sgt Jerry Genesio — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:35:21 -0500

I was 20 when I was badly hurt during Operation Strongback 1958. I intended to make a career of the Corps but was eventually medically surveyed in 1962. I missed Vietnam because of that injury. My brother, a captain in the Green Berets, was KIA in Vietnam on July 24, 1969. I'm thankful that I missed that war. We all know now it was a tragic mistake!

Response by CPO Arthur Weinberger made Nov 25 at 2021 11:37 AM

CPO Arthur Weinberger — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:37:55 -0500

Two blessings. Last year found out I had a sister In Ma. This year I became aware of a son I never knew about. Great news is always good to hear. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving my brothers and sisters!

Response by SSG Michael D. made Nov 25 at 2021 11:38 AM

SSG Michael D. — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:38:52 -0500

I am thankful for team work; and supporting each mission and task to completion.

Response by Sgt Steven Lee made Nov 25 at 2021 11:40 AM

Sgt Steven Lee — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:40:26 -0500

I am thankful for friends and family and all the love they share with others

Response by Sgt Steven Lee made Nov 25 at 2021 11:41 AM

Sgt Steven Lee — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:41:22 -0500

I am thankful for all my friend and family and to those that are sacrificing time with there family right now as well. Thanks to all veterans for making this all possible

Response by Cpl Jerry Neese made Nov 25 at 2021 11:43 AM

Cpl Jerry Neese — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:43:39 -0500

Has a Marine serving Viet Nam,I'm thankful for my Marine buddies who returned,, welcome home God Bless you,,I forgive all those that hated us when we returned,,Semper Fi

Response by SGT Carol Rivers made Nov 25 at 2021 11:45 AM

SGT Carol Rivers — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:45:41 -0500

As an older woman utilizing the military as a tool to escape an abusive marriage, the Army saved my life. I was supported in my endeavors to put together a new life beyond compare. I shall never forget, and am entirely thankful that I am here today, and with a new family to boot. I am proud to have been a part of the Army!

Response by SGT Lisa Mayne made Nov 25 at 2021 11:49 AM

SGT Lisa Mayne — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:49:02 -0500

Thankful for how I learned so much about so many people so different from and ultimately the same as me.

Response by Sgt Don Jessup made Nov 25 at 2021 11:49 AM

Sgt Don Jessup — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:49:29 -0500

Rally Point, great for military and veterans! Happy Thanksgiving to all friends and everyone, and worldwide (our Thanksgiving transverses the world).

Response by SP5 Roger Hurst made Nov 25 at 2021 11:51 AM

SP5 Roger Hurst — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:51:01 -0500

Getting home from Vietnam alive, in 1972

Response by FN Jennifer Krueger made Nov 25 at 2021 11:52 AM

FN Jennifer Krueger — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:52:28 -0500

I’m a navy veteran, and was stationed in Keflavik, Iceland. I arrived a week before Thanksgiving.. My first holiday overseas. Like anyone else, I was missing my family. But my roommate Karen and her friends, who became mine as well, never let me feel like I was far away from people who cared about and loved me. We all met in the 2nd deck kitchen to throw a big pot luck party on Christmas Eve. Our friend Roy announced that the original b/w version of “ Miracle On 34th Street” was about to,start. I remarked I’d never seen it, and Roy smiled and told me he was glad to be with me as I watched itfor the first time. It made me realize that the friends we love are family our hearts find. I will always be grateful to all my friends there, the holidays we made special for each other, because we were, we are, family.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 11:57 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 11:57:23 -0500

As an infantryman, we were always told that our job was to kill people and break things. I am thankful that I never hurt or killed anyone in my 36 year Army career. I was an advisor twice during my three deployments, once in Iraq in 2007-08, and in Afghanistan in 2018. I worked directly with the Iraqis and the Afghans, but luckily I never had to pull the trigger in anger. Ironically, the only time I even came close was during the LA riots in 1992, when a shopkeeper made a sound with a rifle or shotgun he had in his hands. I was on a night "patrol" when I heard the noise, I wheeled around to fire, but the shopkeeper said loudly, "I'm the owner protecting my store!" Fortunately, I did not pull the trigger. I know there are others who weren't as lucky as I was, which is why I am grateful.

Response by SMSgt Michael Gleason made Nov 25 at 2021 12:03 PM

SMSgt Michael Gleason — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:03:35 -0500

In my retirement, I am ESPECIALLY thankful that I "stayed the course" and qualified for the BENEFITS of military retirement, particularly the health care coverage and commissary privileges!

Response by SGT Kim Campbell made Nov 25 at 2021 12:20 PM

SGT Kim Campbell — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:20:24 -0500

I am most thankful for the relationships I developed in the military. Those relationships were REAL and formed bonds that will be forever in my heart and mind. The experiences we shared, the laughs, the tears, the pain, and the growth played a significant part in our resiliency today. I am proud to have served my country alongside my fellow comrades and wish those currently serving, peace and safety. HOOAH!

Response by CPT Gwen Cubie made Nov 25 at 2021 12:35 PM

CPT Gwen Cubie — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:35:32 -0500

I'm thankful for the opportunities being a reservist gave me. The personal growth, leadership skills, ability to travel and experience new places, the camaraderie that's led to lifelong friendships, and the sense of pride felt for being a part of something so important to us all.

Response by SPC Mary Vaughan made Nov 25 at 2021 12:38 PM

SPC Mary Vaughan — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:38:47 -0500

The camaraderie. For sure.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 1:11 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:11:07 -0500

entering for amazon gift card

Response by Sgt William Von Ohlen made Nov 25 at 2021 1:16 PM

Sgt William Von Ohlen — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:16:14 -0500

Turning 18 in Paris Island and 21 in RVN, I felt the USMC gave me the structure I needed to be successful and the confidence to accept responsibility for myself and squad.

Response by PO2 Joseph Barnett made Nov 25 at 2021 1:16 PM

PO2 Joseph Barnett — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:16:19 -0500

Thankful for my eyesight, hearing, the ability to touch, taste, and smell. Thankful for family and friends. I'm also thankful for freedom provided by our service men and women, past and present! Thankful to have recently gotten in touch with men from my Boot Camp from Company 208, Great Lakes 1979.

Response by SP5 Lonyae Ransome made Nov 25 at 2021 1:23 PM

SP5 Lonyae Ransome — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:23:08 -0500

My Sight,

The Ability to see makes it possible for to read the comments of gratitude. To see the lovely world, to see the beauty in someones smile. to see my son grow up and much more.

Thank You

Response by SSG William M Davis made Nov 25 at 2021 1:29 PM

SSG William M Davis — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:29:53 -0500

Thankful for the honor and privilege to have served and survived twenty one years.

Response by SPC Richard Lindsey made Nov 25 at 2021 1:32 PM

SPC Richard Lindsey — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:32:00 -0500

What I have to be thankful for. My wife and I are getting up in years. The economy is dreadful. But still, rather than continuing to pay rent, we used my veterans benefits a couple of years ago to finally purchase a house. This is our forever home and our payments are substationally lower than what rent would be. We have a great mortgage company and are going through another refinance. It decreases our interest and monthly payments greatly.
What else? Well, I have grown children to be thankful for. But, since my wife never had children of her own, we have two wonderful fur children with us. An 11 y/o yellow lab and a 2 y/o chihuahua. They are our family and we are grateful for them both.

Response by MAJ Karl Swenson made Nov 25 at 2021 1:35 PM

MAJ Karl Swenson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:35:03 -0500

What am I most thankful for? Wow! Where do I start? As I look at the 21 years of active and reserve status, so many things stand out. Learning to control my temper and not go off the deep end. Understanding the need to watch someone else's 6. Doing the job right the first time so everyone stays alive. But I think the one thing I am most thankful for is the respect that I have for myself and the life that I have led. The Army gave me that. The Army gave me the opportunity to become whatever I chose to be - I could have been a dumbass smartmouth punk (which is where I started) or I could have been a leader of the best combat soldiers I ever had met. Fortunately for me, I chose the latter.

Response by LCpl Lord Stanciu made Nov 25 at 2021 1:38 PM

LCpl Lord Stanciu — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:38:07 -0500

I learned in the Marines that I can do anything with my brothers

Response by SPC Julie Wilkerson made Nov 25 at 2021 1:50 PM

SPC Julie Wilkerson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:50:15 -0500

I am thankful for the freedoms some have fought and died for. I grew strong and proud from my duty and service.

Response by Daniel Ochoa made Nov 25 at 2021 1:58 PM

Daniel Ochoa — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 13:58:36 -0500

If I didn't join the military I don't think I would have been to the places I've been to and I don't think I would have my current job!

Response by TSgt Rick Rook made Nov 25 at 2021 2:00 PM

TSgt Rick Rook — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 14:00:44 -0500

The military taught me self discipline and my experiences traveling abroad and Stateside

Response by TSgt Rick Rook made Nov 25 at 2021 2:04 PM

TSgt Rick Rook — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 14:04:03 -0500

The military taught me self discipline and gave me wonderful memories of living overseas and stateside.

Response by SPC John Cummings made Nov 25 at 2021 2:05 PM

SPC John Cummings — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 14:05:42 -0500

I am most thank for the many avenues that I have to reconnect with the Veteran community. Specifically, RallyPoint, Wounded Warrior Project, Nine Line Foundation and the VA. There are hundreds more to find your niche.

Response by CMSgt Marcus Falleaf made Nov 25 at 2021 2:06 PM

CMSgt Marcus Falleaf — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 14:06:04 -0500

I was in the Marine Corps at NSA in 1978 when I met my wife of 43-years. We are still together in spite of my ignorance and are living happily ever after. I still remember dancing at Club 602 to the Smoky Robinson tune, "You really gotta hold on me". Without the Corps, I'm without her..

Response by CA Al Swain made Nov 25 at 2021 2:07 PM

CA Al Swain — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 14:07:11 -0500

"Happy THANKSGIVING" Thank you for your service!!!

Response by SN Kristi Kalis made Nov 25 at 2021 2:13 PM

SN Kristi Kalis — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 14:13:53 -0500

I am thankful that my attempts at suicide following MST were unsuccessful. I lived long enough to meet my wife and begin healing.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 3:06 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 15:06:28 -0500

I joined right out of high school, and am glad I did. I got to go to school for free (and pay for all of my undergraduate degree as well as half a grad degree with the Post-9/11 GI bill), but not only that, I got to learn - and still use to this day - the Arabic language. I did not know when I was a high school student that I had such a predilection for languages, nor that I would enjoy getting to use Arabic on a nearly daily basis with some of my friends (and they're still amazed that I speak it, since I look like the last person in the world who speaks Arabic - I'm from a small town in the Midwest, and our most foreign student was when someone transferred from the "big city.")

Perhaps most of all though, I am thankful that through the military I met my wife - and that is one contract that I hope never expires.

Response by SPC Leonor Hernandez made Nov 25 at 2021 3:39 PM

SPC Leonor Hernandez — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 15:39:51 -0500

I’m thankful that the military has shown me a lot from how to pack ALOT of clothes into a very small pack and how to earn respect

Response by Tracie Hall made Nov 25 at 2021 3:50 PM

Tracie Hall — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 15:50:52 -0500

As a Gold Star Wife I am so very thankful to the Military for allowing my husband Spc Robert E. Hall, Jr the opportunity to serve his country in honor of his father and to protect his family while serving in Iraq in Operation Iraqi Freedom. My daughter and I unfortunately did not get the time we thought we would have with him but to know that he died serving his country and protecting us from harm gives us a sense of relief and pride. We could not be prouder of our HERO than we are because he gave everything he had to make sure his family (both his brothers in arms and his family here in the states) were safe. He is the only one his unit lost so that also gives me a great sense of pride that he laid his life on the line for his unit and his family so that no one else would have to experience the pain that we experienced when we lost him. The family bond is still with us to this day and for that we will always be grateful!!

Response by PO3 Mike McKinney made Nov 25 at 2021 4:10 PM

PO3 Mike McKinney — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 16:10:03 -0500

Growing to a better, more responsible man. Having lifelong friends that we shared experience with.

Response by CPL Daniel Papa made Nov 25 at 2021 5:05 PM

CPL Daniel Papa — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 17:05:00 -0500

Thankful for the experiences and training but especially thankful for surviving the Korean war.

Response by SPC Abraham Newcome-Beill made Nov 25 at 2021 5:10 PM

SPC Abraham Newcome-Beill — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 17:10:31 -0500

I’m thankful for all the wonderful people I have met while serving

Response by PO1 James Akins made Nov 25 at 2021 5:48 PM

PO1 James Akins — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 17:48:53 -0500

I’m thankful because I spent the holidays away from from my family and friends, but spent holidays with my extended military family and friends. I remember one thanksgiving that is special to me even now it was spent with a navy family in “Pensacola, Florida”. This event was a ship sponsored event where sailors spent the holidays with local military families. This was the first time I spent the thanksgiving holiday with a family other than my own and it was fantastic. The whole experience real good, the family accepted me with open arms and we shared our experiences, played games, ate good food and bonded together. I did this a couple more times and the experience was the same and now I have great feelings for families other than my own for taking me into their homes.

Response by A1C Cristina Martinez made Nov 25 at 2021 6:04 PM

A1C Cristina Martinez — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 18:04:02 -0500

I am most thankful for the family of members that served with me and after me.

Response by SP5 Linda Fischer made Nov 25 at 2021 6:35 PM

SP5 Linda Fischer — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 18:35:55 -0500

I am most thankful for my orders to Augsburg, GE. I enjoyed visiting the many places I had the opportunity to see. I would never be able to pay for a trip to Europe on my own. I enjoyed skiing in Austria, New Years' in Paris, the castles in Germany, and much more. I came home with a better understanding of that part of the world.

Response by PO2 Dru Popham-Snavely made Nov 25 at 2021 6:49 PM

PO2 Dru Popham-Snavely — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 18:49:23 -0500

Now that we have retired, we are so thankful for our health care benefits. We love our Doctor at the base and couldn't ask for better care. We here of so many who can't afford health care, and we just don't know what we would do with out our retirement benefits.

Response by PO2 Charles Maletich made Nov 25 at 2021 6:51 PM

PO2 Charles Maletich — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 18:51:28 -0500

I am thankful for the opportunity to serve my country. The friends I made along the way and some I am still in touch with. I left the USN in 1973 and always felt I could have done more. The best thing that ever happened to me..

Response by CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton made Nov 25 at 2021 7:38 PM

CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 19:38:51 -0500

I am most thankful for my wonderful wife, who enabled me to serve 27 years, 2 months and 3 days total service time. I never received an accompanied overseas tour but after our marriage, served two unaccompanied in Vietnam, one in Osan, Korea, and Multiple, short and long term, Temporary Duty trips to various places around the world. Without her understanding, selfless encouragement and willingness to endure these separations, while raising our son during those deployments, I couldn't have lasted as long as I did. She was the rock that I could lean on and never worry about the home front. Would I do it again, I don't know, but without her I couldn't have done it once. Her example supporting me during the military time has given me guidance in standing by and supporting her during a disabling illness the past 30 years. From my observations and personal experiences, there are many military spouses of her example who deserve recognition and praise.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2021 8:03 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 20:03:48 -0500

I'm thankful that the benefits I've earned allowed my family to have a secure start, primarily purchasing our home with a BA loan.

Response by LT Michael Camden made Nov 25 at 2021 8:31 PM

LT Michael Camden — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 20:31:27 -0500

As an enlisted seaman, I quickly learned humility and how to rely on my shipmates. As a junior SWO, I learned perseverance and gained confidence in what I could achieve with hard work. These lessons have served me well in the 20+ years since leaving the service.

Response by SGT Roger Bunton made Nov 25 at 2021 8:36 PM

SGT Roger Bunton — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 20:36:47 -0500

My family!

Response by PO2 Thomas (Rocky) Watson made Nov 25 at 2021 8:45 PM

PO2 Thomas (Rocky) Watson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 20:45:24 -0500

I'm thankful for Medical Cannabis for helping treat me and other Veterans with PTSD and Opioids addiction. Veterans Cannabis Group Post 1

Response by PO3 Bradley Pick made Nov 25 at 2021 9:27 PM

PO3 Bradley Pick — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 21:27:06 -0500

That my buddy from the Coast Guard is still my best friend since we served together in 1975-1976. I was finally able to persuade my wife to move to South Carolina so we could be near him and his wife. Semper Paratus

Response by Cpl Richard Wolfgang made Nov 25 at 2021 9:43 PM

Cpl Richard Wolfgang — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 21:43:26 -0500

For all the new brothers i got to know, while serving in the marines.

Response by SPC John Tsutsui made Nov 25 at 2021 10:06 PM

SPC John Tsutsui — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 22:06:49 -0500

I am thankful for the responsibilities I had in the Army as a MP. Turned me from a kid in to a man. The Army gave me the foundation to build a successful family life and a career. I am also thankful for the people I met stateside and overseas some that remain friends to this day.

Response by SGM Willie Sanderson made Nov 25 at 2021 11:13 PM

SGM Willie Sanderson — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 23:13:25 -0500

My 27 years in the Military taught me to see the world through the eyes of my Soldiers. I was very fortunate in all my leadership positions to have a great diversity of soldiers and I tried to absorb everything I could about each individual. I made it a point to learn everythig about each soldier and most of all I knew their families. When I gave an order each of them could feel my honesty and my desire for mission accomplishment and they always gave me excellent performance. MY SOLDIERS MADE ME AND MY UNIT ALWAYS EXCEL. I just provided them with positive direction and covered their 6. I loved my soldiers and I showed it in every way possible.

Response by CPO Amanda Myers made Nov 25 at 2021 11:13 PM

CPO Amanda Myers — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 23:13:36 -0500

My husband Mike. We met in the USCG. When he left the service he continued to support my service as a reservist for 21 more years. He was a stay at home dad to our two oldest kids, single handedly moved us from a 3000 ft house to a 1100 sq ft bungalow and always been willing to support my active duty. I was semper paratus because he’s been always willing!

Response by SSgt Travis Gayheart made Nov 26 at 2021 12:46 AM

SSgt Travis Gayheart — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 00:46:12 -0500

There are so many things that I am thankful for that I went through during my service. When I was a baby Load we transported several wounded soldiers back to the states, some in critical care (in which one in particular soldier had passed away during the flight), but being there to help them get back to the states and receive proper care and enabling them to be with their families in such a drastic time had changed my life early on in my career. It allowed me to see things in a different perspective and to be thankful for everything that I have even if I am indeed struggling to this day, I know that I had changed some people's lives and it makes a depressing day turn into a day where I think back and am grateful for my time in service.

Response by SPC John Bryant made Nov 26 at 2021 12:51 AM

SPC John Bryant — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 00:51:19 -0500

I'm thankful to have served with so many awesome men and women who feel thank protect the country and citizens of this country is important.

Response by PO2 Jose A Arroyo made Nov 26 at 2021 1:28 AM

PO2 Jose A Arroyo — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 01:28:12 -0500

One of the many things I'm grateful to the military for is experiencing the true meaning of DIVERSITY! In the Navy I dealt with sailors from every race, alll 50 states and U.S. territories. Quite the "melting pot"of the American population!

Response by PO1 David Haney made Nov 26 at 2021 1:31 AM

PO1 David Haney — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 01:31:32 -0500

I'm most thankful of my Military Life that I had the opportunity to serve Our Country and it's Allies. I'm also thankful that my Military Life taught me how to be organized, mature and a Leader. Now I can be a better leader of my family. I'm grateful to have seen so many countries, 16 to be exact. And finally, I'm thankful that I was able to finish my Navy Career with 21 years of Service and be unharmed.
David J. Haney Navy Operations Specialist First Class/Retired

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made Nov 26 at 2021 6:52 AM

Sgt Mervyn Russell — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 06:52:05 -0500

I'm most thankful for meeting my wife of fifty three years, returning from Vietnam I met my wife. We Married shortly afterwards, short courtship to say the least. If I had not joined the Marines I would not have met this wonderful woman and had the two beautiful children we have. Long story short, It's been a wonderful life.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2021 8:18 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 08:18:17 -0500

I feel that I am most thankful for the privilege to have served in the Army. Thank God I could, even though it wasn't in war time, I upheld the family tradition of serving in the military. I was the medic going up front...I loved every minute of it.

Response by CWO2 Bob McCook made Nov 26 at 2021 8:43 AM

CWO2 Bob McCook — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 08:43:38 -0500

I was 16 years old, 9th grade drop out from school from feeling like I was a caged animal and heading down a self destructive path quickly. I turned 17, my father dragged me down to the Navy recruiter and well the rest is 23 years of service I would do again in a heart beat! I am grateful for the leadership and mentoring from many who molded and influenced who I am today. I am grateful for my wife of 47 years, whom I would never have met without serving and being where I was. I am grateful for the brothers I still have and that still care about me, and I them. I am grateful for living a life that mattered to me and gave me opportunities to matter to my country and the world I live in. I am grateful every day for the life the Navy gave me and the opportunities it gave me after retiring from the Navy!

Response by PO3 Debra Dart made Nov 26 at 2021 9:14 AM

PO3 Debra Dart — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 09:14:18 -0500

I'm most thankful for the experiences and things I did while assigned to the Naval Intelligence Support Center photo lab. Too many to write here. But, got to meet and talk to foreign dignitaries.

Response by PO3 David Wise made Nov 26 at 2021 9:33 AM

PO3 David Wise — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 09:33:10 -0500

Self discovery, not being afraid of what I find.

Response by PO2 Will Sholy made Nov 26 at 2021 11:06 AM

PO2 Will Sholy — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 11:06:30 -0500

I am extremely grateful for the experience I had in the Navy Seabees. It changed my perspective on life and how fortunate we are as Americans to live the way we can.

Response by SFC Edward Sneed made Nov 26 at 2021 11:27 AM

SFC Edward Sneed — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 11:27:45 -0500

That the military gave me the opportunity to further my education and get a degree. It also gave me the opportunity to achieve the knowledge to make good decisions and become a leader amongst my peers. To be knowledgeable of my environment and be able to give to my community and charitable organizations of my choice, to help others within the military. And a chance to travel to places I'd never would have gone to, and learn to enjoy the cultures of other countries. My military career was a success to my life, overall.

Response by PO2 James Ball made Nov 26 at 2021 12:08 PM

PO2 James Ball — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 12:08:14 -0500

I am most thankful for the strong friendships that I have made with my shipmates. Despite being discharged over 30 years ago and have moved on to different career paths in different areas of the country, we still text everyday and reunite 2-3 times each year to share our bonds and create new memories. We support each other in good times and bad without being OVERLY judge mental.
We are brothers.

Response by SPC Laura Pasqualini made Nov 26 at 2021 12:17 PM

SPC Laura Pasqualini — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 12:17:16 -0500

I am thankful to all the servicemen and women in the world. It is very hard to be away from family and friends especially during the holidays. I applaud you.

Response by FN Levi Garcia made Nov 26 at 2021 12:27 PM

FN Levi Garcia — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 12:27:13 -0500

I am thankful for my tour of duty on board my ship the USS Tawasa ATF 92.
I had a great experience going across the oceans in my time on board. I couldn't have been happier being on board with so many nice crew members.
Levi Garcia

Response by SP5 Dennis Griffy made Nov 26 at 2021 12:55 PM

SP5 Dennis Griffy — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 12:55:17 -0500

My experience was valuable in many ways - travel, education, benefits, skills and unique experiences. However, the one thing I am most thankful for is the opportunity to have made some lifelong friends. These friendships have endured through the years, and as we all approach ETS after over 50 years, I am most thankful for my brothers with whom I served. Thank you, my brothers, for your service and your enduring friendship!

Response by Sgt William Cox made Nov 26 at 2021 1:10 PM

Sgt William Cox — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 13:10:11 -0500

Special Ops

Response by Cpl David Burgess made Nov 26 at 2021 1:27 PM

Cpl David Burgess — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 13:27:11 -0500

THE DISIPILNE THAT TRAINED ME FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE

Response by PO2 Derek Rodriguez made Nov 26 at 2021 1:39 PM

PO2 Derek Rodriguez — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 13:39:51 -0500

I'm grateful for the crazy and fun experiences I had with shipmates in Asia and Hawaii!

Response by LTC Donald Henderson made Nov 26 at 2021 1:42 PM

LTC Donald Henderson — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 13:42:22 -0500

As a 17 year old E-1, I grew up fast learning discipline, team building and comradeship as a young soldier. I was able to take advantage of training opportunities and seek opportunities after my service. As a result of a helicopter mishap, I used vocational rehab to complete college and law school. I have always tried to pay it forward by serving many years as a public servant, a JAG officer and by providing service to other veterans and disabled veterans.

Response by SGT Dave Loeffler made Nov 26 at 2021 2:27 PM

SGT Dave Loeffler — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 14:27:38 -0500

Iam thankful for my family, especially my Wife, with out her support,love and understanding I would be a drunk in the booby hatch!

Response by A1C Mike Lapcheske made Nov 26 at 2021 3:36 PM

A1C Mike Lapcheske — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 15:36:48 -0500

That dumb people who won't get the vaccine tend to die of COVID. #thintheherd #godarwinism

Response by TSgt Ollie Woods made Nov 26 at 2021 4:43 PM

TSgt Ollie Woods — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:43:18 -0500

I am most thankful for my retirement from the military as my experience as an active guardsman was not a positive one. The retirement check allowed me to be able to live a decent life on the small salary that I received working as a teacher in the public school sector.

Response by PO2 Jonathan Moen made Nov 26 at 2021 4:47 PM

PO2 Jonathan Moen — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:47:28 -0500

I'm thankful, among many things, to be living in the greatest country on earth. That country is, of course, the United States of America.

Response by PO2 Jay Stotler made Nov 26 at 2021 8:51 PM

PO2 Jay Stotler — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 20:51:32 -0500

Of all the things in y life the number one would be my wife and family.we started off in a small trailer and now have 10 acre acres of land a beautiful house ,garage and barn along with that are three kids that all. Have good jobs and friends.
Other wise y tie served seeing all thr island in the Caribbean i would never have had the chance to do that other wise. Last of all but very important is living in the USA.
Thanks to all of you who have help make and keep this country. What it was founded for.

Response by Jennifer Duncan made Nov 26 at 2021 11:49 PM

Jennifer Duncan — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 23:49:08 -0500

I'm proud to be the wife of an Army veteran. I'm thankful to see that the military has helped shape my husband's and my values that we try and instill in our children. I appreciate the VA being more inclusive with the caregivers of the men and women that have bravely served so that we may serve them better as caregivers.

Response by SPC Amanda Merrell made Nov 27 at 2021 1:10 AM

SPC Amanda Merrell — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 01:10:18 -0500

I'm thankful for my family's health!

Response by SFC Sharon Roberts made Nov 27 at 2021 1:22 AM

SFC Sharon Roberts — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 01:22:51 -0500

I had great friendships, many that were and are as much family as my biological family. The experiences we shared only brought us closer. Disability and striving to complete higher education only made me stronger, I don't know if I can is not part of my vocabulary, but I can and I will do this are part of my daily vocabulary.

Response by PO1 David Haney made Nov 27 at 2021 1:41 AM

PO1 David Haney — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 01:41:49 -0500

I'm most thankful of my Military Life that I had the opportunity to serve Our Country and its Allies. I'm also thankful that my Military Life taught me how to be organized, mature and a Leader. Now I can be
a better Leader of my family. I'm grateful to have seen so many countries,16 to be exact. And finally,I'm thankful that I was able to finish my Navy Career with 21 years of Service unharmed.
David J. Haney,
Navy/ Operations Specialist First Class/Retired

Response by SSG Scott Kelley made Nov 27 at 2021 2:39 AM

SSG Scott Kelley — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 02:39:43 -0500

I'm most thankful for having served with a great group of Americans in places far and wide, and to have enjoyed a comraderei and experiences that simply can't be matched anywhere but in the military.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2021 10:07 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 10:07:50 -0500

I am most thankful for the experience & opportunity to serve. I decided at a young age to serve my country because of those that paved the path before me. I am deeply grateful for those that went before me & those that I stood side by side with. The military taught me some things about myself that were unlocked only thru experience. The intangible, the sites, smells, & feelings of being there, doing it & succeeding are by far some of the best days of my life. I am grateful for everything that I was taught, the lessons I carry today with me & have passed on to my own posterity. I will forever admire those that were placed in such a pivotal time in my life. I can still remember the day I left for training & it was one of the proudest moments of my life. I will never regret my time in the US Army.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2021 11:57 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 11:57:44 -0500

I am thankful for serving 23 years to my country. I served 16 of those years as an Army recruiter and gave kids the same opportunity that I was given to make a difference.

Response by PFC Jeanine Thomas made Nov 27 at 2021 1:50 PM

PFC Jeanine Thomas — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 13:50:33 -0500

I am thankful of most of the life skills the Army taught me to do that I did not pay attention as closely when I was growing up: washing laundry, how to iron clothes, learn from my mistakes and the importance of taking care of my health and appreciating fitness. Lol! To value short-term friendships equally like a long-term connection and not everyone has your best interest in mind. All these qualities helped condition me to expect the unexpected and stay ready for anything.

Response by PO2 Mike Morgan made Nov 27 at 2021 3:30 PM

PO2 Mike Morgan — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 15:30:39 -0500

Self-discipline.

Response by CPL Jimmy Ritchie made Nov 27 at 2021 4:47 PM

CPL Jimmy Ritchie — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 16:47:55 -0500

There are so many things but here are a few, , friends that I made during the 13 years I served, the training and education I received, the Cadre that helped shape me and gives the courage to make it through the war and many deployments I made during service. It also gave me the discipline and morals that I use every day.

Response by Dennis Aubuchon made Nov 27 at 2021 4:48 PM

Dennis Aubuchon — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 16:48:13 -0500

There are a great many individuals both civilian and military who are part of this organization. I am thankful that there is a place where those who support the military, their feelings and comments. It is great that this organization exist. I have grown as an individual by being a part of this group of individuals. I like the chance to provide my comments or feelings about questions that are raised. I have grown in influence on this site and I am thankful for all the comments I have received when I provide input and recognize individuals for achieving their level of influence

Response by SPC George Edwards made Nov 27 at 2021 5:24 PM

SPC George Edwards — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 17:24:10 -0500

For all of the opportunities to learn, travel and make life-long friends while serving my country. Things which a poor kid from West Virginia would not have otherwise had the opportunity to do.

Response by SFC Richard Baerlocher made Nov 27 at 2021 6:19 PM

SFC Richard Baerlocher — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 18:19:32 -0500

In 1982 our Battalion Commander refused to purchace decore packs for the dining facility. This is standard thoughout all Army units. The Dining facility belongs to the men in the unit. This is where they will be able ot relax and have a great meal, and comradery for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Officers and NCO's of the Battalion chipped in to get decoractions for the Dining Facility. For Christmas I drove to Rothenberg, in Germany to get decorations and purchase items that would be well recieved by the men and the families that would be eating in the Dining Facility. One item in particular that I purchased was small Santa Clause figures carrying a bag. We filled the bag with individual wrapped candies for the children. Bcause we didn't have the standard decore packets, we could not compete for the best Dining Facility, but the Community Commander gave us an honorable mention because of the effort and caring that went into the decoration. I am again thanking all of the Officers and NCO's that participated in collecting the money for that.

Response by PFC Marilyn Williams made Nov 27 at 2021 10:21 PM

PFC Marilyn Williams — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 22:21:59 -0500

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my country and the many friendships I have with other veterans.

Response by PO2 Steve Crawford made Nov 28 at 2021 1:09 AM

PO2 Steve Crawford — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 01:09:45 -0500

At 18yo and a black male, I was picked to be assigned to the Squadron Commander's P2V-5F crew as a mechanic and later I became the plane captain. I matured ten-fold with the responsibility, and occupying either the pilot or co-pilot seat when they leave.

Response by Sgt Joel Guzman made Nov 28 at 2021 3:30 AM

Sgt Joel Guzman — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 03:30:50 -0500

I'm thankful for all the knowledge and great leadership that has been handed down from generation to generation. Great leaders, set the example and make it easy to pass on winning traditions and continue to be true examples of selfless service. I am ultimately thankful for all service members who payed to the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our great nation.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2021 11:00 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 11:00:24 -0500

I am thankful for the competence and maturity that it gave that I didn't know I was missing as a civilian

Response by SPC Tammy Sandidge made Nov 28 at 2021 11:12 AM

SPC Tammy Sandidge — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 11:12:52 -0500

I am most thankful for my travels around the world. I LOVED the military!!!!

Response by SA John Swartchick made Nov 28 at 2021 1:17 PM

SA John Swartchick — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 13:17:02 -0500

I grew-up because of my time in the Navy. Had never been away from the D.C. area and this opportunity to travel, visit new countries & cultures really exposed how small we actually are in this world. Loved carrier life & being the Flasship allowed me great learning experiences with more seasoned sailors! Thank you.

Response by SGM Alejandro Branch made Nov 28 at 2021 3:02 PM

SGM Alejandro Branch — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 15:02:50 -0500

All the hardships and joys culminated w / my retirement check along w/ my disability check.

Response by PFC Jerry Motsinger made Nov 28 at 2021 3:39 PM

PFC Jerry Motsinger — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 15:39:17 -0500

I’m glad there are people out here that can help each other to help with the world we live in. Thank you for connecting all branches of the military together.

Response by Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna made Nov 28 at 2021 7:11 PM

Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 19:11:34 -0500

God!…He forgave &!will forgive me once repent!…

Response by CPT L J made Nov 29 at 2021 3:20 AM

CPT L J — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 03:20:39 -0500

What am I most thankful for about my military experience? The people. Battle buddies for life!!

Response by SPC Julia Papellas made Nov 29 at 2021 7:27 AM

SPC Julia Papellas — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 07:27:23 -0500

Sharing my can do with my son. What we learn we take away with ourselves when we finally step back from our roll though we can pass that knowledge on to the next generation. While my son is considering a different branch of service then our family has previously sweated and bleed in. I will be proud to call him a Marine. If your reading this you can do it just put your mind to it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2021 8:18 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 08:18:47 -0500

I am thankful for the how resilient the military has made me. I am the strength that my family depends on in tough situations.

Response by Cpl Clay Hildebrand made Nov 29 at 2021 9:34 AM

Cpl Clay Hildebrand — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 09:34:38 -0500

I am most thankful for the confidence it gave me. By just surviving Parris Island, I felt like I had done something more than all my years prior to that. The military may not always show people what they want out of life, but it often reminds us what we don't want.

Response by PO3 Hugh Lockerby made Nov 29 at 2021 11:10 AM

PO3 Hugh Lockerby — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 11:10:23 -0500

I am thankful for my military time in Navy-Vietnam from Swift Boats to submarines. I was able to continue thru GI Bill, go to college and become a High School, Industrial Arts (Shop) teacher. I passed those skills on to my many students for 35 years and I see many of them continue to be successful in their life vocation and in their communities...the military learning continues !

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2021 11:31 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 11:31:02 -0500

After coming to this country as a dependent I joined in the military. After two ugly divorces (second husband told me I would never amount to anything with out him, he was very abusive) the military was my family and I raised two wonderful kids. Now retired after 32 years NG.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2021 11:58 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 11:58:44 -0500

WoW what am i thankful for? This list for me could go on and on as i joined at 24 married with a child working a dead end job just getting by. The military has provided a new hope and outlook on life. I never thought i would have seen and done the things i have in the past 10 years of being in the Air Force. I am mostly thankful for the positive impact and role model i am for my boys and other young men that their is no limit to what you can do joining the military rather its a career and retirement or just a learning and growing opportunity. i believe for myself the military was and still is the best choice in making a great life for myself and my family.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2021 12:06 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:06:32 -0500

I'm thankful for the great leaders I have been able to work with as well as the many opportunities the Air Force has afforded me. I have developed professionally and personally throughout the last 15 years through training and execution of my duties in service of our country.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2021 12:08 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:08:06 -0500

Thankful for the many leaders I've had the pleasure of working with and the many experiences that have helped me to grow professionally and personally for the last fifteen years!

Response by SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. made Nov 29 at 2021 3:04 PM

SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 15:04:18 -0500

Thankful for my family support while in the military. Also for all the leaders enlisted and officers that have shown me to be patriotic, prideful, and be a part of the best military force in the world fighting for our country's freedom and beliefs.

Response by Capt Erin Dunn made Nov 29 at 2021 3:26 PM

Capt Erin Dunn — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 15:26:59 -0500

I am most grateful for the faithful men and women I served with, especially supervisors who went above and beyond to ensure my success. I specifically recall one supervisor who wrote me countless letters of recommendation, even after I separated. The love and friendship I received from them is priceless. Camaraderie. Honor. Respect. Forever remembered.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2021 8:51 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 20:51:36 -0500

Serving with people from all over the country/world.

Response by LTJG Debra Cardenas made Nov 29 at 2021 9:44 PM

LTJG Debra Cardenas — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 21:44:55 -0500

As a Navy brat I was blessed to experience military life from an early age. The people I met, the places I lived, and the work ethic I gained as a dependent continued as I joined the Navy myself. The early travel and many jobs I participated in along the way made me a perfect fit for the Supply community of the Navy. Going from E-1 as a non-designated striker to being an SKC and then receiving a commission into the SuppIy Corp, I learned that it is important to be flexible, understand the details of your job, and recognize the importance of honesty and integrity at the most basic level. I also learned it is difficult to do the right thing when many around you are not, but that it is worth it regardless. Being true to your values is the most important lesson any individual can learn. For me, the Navy, from birth and beyond grew me into the person I am today and I wouldn’t change a thing.

Response by SGT Steve Provo made Nov 30 at 2021 2:01 PM

SGT Steve Provo — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 14:01:57 -0500

I am so grateful for all the experiences, camaraderie, and benefits (like college $, and VA healthcare)!

Response by CSM Thomas Ray made Dec 1 at 2021 6:33 PM

CSM Thomas Ray — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 18:33:04 -0500

I am thankful I survived all the deployments, many times I look back and don't know how I survived. The training I received along the way saved my life and I feel that I can pretty much survive anything that comes my way. I am also thankful I was able to travel to many places, even if they weren't 5 star places.

Response by PO2 Kenneth Barker made Dec 1 at 2021 8:31 PM

PO2 Kenneth Barker — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 20:31:19 -0500

I'm thankful my dad (who had never served) told me when I joined the military "Do what you're told, and a little extra, and you'll do OK." Experience proved he was right.

Response by PFC Deborah Sanderson made Dec 1 at 2021 9:46 PM

PFC Deborah Sanderson — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 21:46:38 -0500

I am most thankful that I got to experience seeing what New England was like when I was stationed at Fort Devens, Massachusetts and the wonderful job that I had at Tripler medical Center in Oahu, Hawaii .

Response by MAJ Darwin Feakes made Dec 1 at 2021 11:35 PM

MAJ Darwin Feakes — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 23:35:01 -0500

Making friends for life and from the Guard serving my state.

Response by SPC Susie Hill made Dec 2 at 2021 12:50 AM

SPC Susie Hill — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 00:50:30 -0500

I got out alive

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2021 2:12 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 14:12:47 -0500

Congratulations to SGT Lisa Mayne, PO2 Dru Popham-Snavely, PO2 Reginald Ross, GySgt Rodney Hendricks, and SPC Michelle Wells! You've all won a $100 Amazon gift card! An e-gift card will be sent to the email address associated with your RallyPoint account.

Thanks to all who participated and shared!

Response by SrA Christopher Hyman made Dec 5 at 2021 7:40 PM

SrA Christopher Hyman — Sun, 05 Dec 2021 19:40:16 -0500

The values and honer I have learned.

Response by SGT Christopher Till made Dec 16 at 2021 6:09 PM

SGT Christopher Till — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 18:09:01 -0500

My dd214

Response by PFC Charlene Grant made Dec 19 at 2021 1:18 PM

PFC Charlene Grant — Sun, 19 Dec 2021 13:18:34 -0500

I am thankful for the mental strength I gained from my military service

Response by AB Edward Killeen Jr. made Dec 23 at 2021 4:19 PM

AB Edward Killeen Jr. — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 16:19:48 -0500

I am most grateful for the experience I had at such a young age of 17 years old going in and for the discipline I received which had countless benefits in my life. It would take me an hour to list them all, but there are many and I never forgot any of them.

Response by PO2 Mark Fitzgerald made Dec 31 at 2021 11:07 AM

PO2 Mark Fitzgerald — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 11:07:35 -0500

Thankful for learning new things , people, friends

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2022 8:45 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 08:45:15 -0500

One thing that would certainly rise to the top of any such list of people, places, or events I might compile would be that during my career I never worked for, with, or around a great many people with whom I have crossed paths, oh, say, in the last five or six years. Furthermore, I appreciate that I served during a time when any lines drawn in the sand were clear and unambiguous. Every who, what, when, where, why, and how had and knew its place and, therein, lay the end to every discussion about anything.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Sep 10 at 2022 5:57 AM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 05:57:08 -0400

thanks for sharing

Response by SPC Dustin Allgaier made Dec 6 at 2022 9:35 PM

SPC Dustin Allgaier — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 21:35:38 -0500

I'm thankful for all the brothers and sisters I made and all the discipline and hardwork I learned. I'm thankful I could help my country and im thankful to have gotten to go thru that experience it was so amazing.

Response by SFC James Weisbrod made Jun 28 at 2023 11:56 PM

SFC James Weisbrod — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 23:56:00 -0400

Retired @ 37

Response by PFC Danny King made Jun 29 at 2023 12:10 AM

PFC Danny King — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 00:10:29 -0400

Great