What constitutes being "old school" in the military?

Lots of good comments about ‘the good ol’days’ and most apply to me (Retired ‘17) but let’s not glamourize those days like there wasn’t anything wrong. Granted- today’s social landscape has made things different.
I guess the bottom line is, ‘back then’ was the Army (technology notwithstanding) a tougher and more disciplined fighting force? Begrudgingly I have to say yes.

I say begrudgingly because it was mostly my generation of leaders that let it slip.
That said- I think the Army top to bottom is healthier socially.....which I hope turns into a more focused and professional body in the future. Time will tell.

But yea......as soft as basic has become, and it moved the needle less and less on entitled kids who grew up in front of an Xbox....I think it is a weaker force.

And no- not all newer Soldiers are entitled, bed wetting mama’s boys with over developed video game thumbs and under developed pecs.

But you see it.

Clearly the term "old school" has multiple definitions. Literally it could refer to actual arcane institutes of education. Some one who attended PLDC, BNCOC,or ANCOC, instead of whatever the current course title may be, may be considered old school. More relevant however, the colloquialism "old school" usually refers to someone utilizing an archaic tactic, technique, or procedure (TTP) that has been supplanted with newer methods. This can be viewed both positively and negatively. An "old school" smoking session for example, if directed to instill discipline and correct performance is positive, but it is often little more than a higher rank flexing his/her authority in a sadistic demonstration of cruelty. This is why old school smoking sessions are mostly frowned upon and their effectiveness is often questioned. Another fine example is the use of old knowledge where technology has replaced older methods. Using intersections or resection to determine ones location now that GPS is in the hands of every Tom, Dick or Harry might be "old school" yet still something that may be necessary as a secondary TTP in some contingencies.

Drinking coffee from a canteen cup that you heated up with a trioxane bar!

What was "old school" to me, as a 19 year old basic trainee, would probably be "ancient history" to today's recruits. I guess it all depends on when you served.

What was "old school" to me as a 19 year old basic trainee, would be"ancient history" to today's recruits. I guess it all depends on when you served.

Never "Ratted" on anyone !! Ever

rode in GMC duce and 1/2, had white name tapes with black and gold us army tapes wore the same cheverions on duty and dress uniforms

Part of that line is speaking badly about your president, especially around civilians, or in the worst case doing so overseas.

It is simple to me, And it cost me dearly.
You do whatever you need to do to take care of you guys.
1. They always eat first
2. They always sleep First.
3. They are always in front of you at C.I.F. for deployment.
4. you always try to get them into as many schools as they can handle so they can get promoted.
5. If they are married try to give Time before deployments.
6. when they have C.Q. duty stop by to make sure things are going good. Most of us has had the N.C.O. That goes on there rounds and comes back ten minutes before the next C.Q. starts.
7. I think the most important one of all remember you where a nobody at one time too ,Do not be a dick unless you have to.

Yes,...Old school...all of the above PLUS C-Rats,John Wayne can openers, Junk On The Bunk, AC & Htg not working all the time, No Cable T.V., Field day Thursday, very Low Pay, Don't finger F*%K my Brass, Starch your work cover with liquid starch, with cover block and clothes pins!!! AAHH, those were the days!!! And I wore my UNIFORM, Class-A and-C with PRIDE!!!