What do you consider the most important event of your life so far?

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Mon, 23 May 2016 16:24:44 -0400

RP Members & Connections here's another one of those questions lost, but it keeps on giving.

What single event in your life do you consider to be the most important to-date?

What event made the biggest impression in your life that you'll never forget as long as you live?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2016 4:26 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 May 2016 16:26:40 -0400

Being born was pretty important.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made May 23 at 2016 4:37 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Mon, 23 May 2016 16:37:59 -0400

For me, it wasn't something in history or something that happened in the news, it was the birth of my first daughter (my miracle daughter); after 13 years of trying to have a baby and finally giving up; and then joining an adoption agency, we were blessed with our frist daughter - Kattie Maree Burroughs followed 18 months later by her sister Madalyn Leann Burroughs - two miracle children!

Response by PO1 John Miller made May 23 at 2016 4:45 PM

PO1 John Miller — Mon, 23 May 2016 16:45:43 -0400

The birth of my daughter, Ms. Kayla Lyn Miller.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 23 at 2016 4:47 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 23 May 2016 16:47:37 -0400

Holding my first Grandchild when she was 2 weeks old. Now she is taller than her Dad. The next probably would be having a Front Row Seat for Mt Pinatubo.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made May 23 at 2016 4:51 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Mon, 23 May 2016 16:51:33 -0400

Birth. It set me on the path of life. Thanks to many decisions, good and bad, I have lived countless experiences good and bad. Without birth, none of this would have come to pass

Response by LTC Stephen F. made May 23 at 2016 4:52 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Mon, 23 May 2016 16:52:48 -0400

The date when my human spirit was changed from the path of eternal death to the path of eternal life COL Mikel J. Burroughs. On September 30, 1987 I recognized my need for my Savior. After almost 31 years of fighting God and His messengers while desperately searching for the truth, I bowed to my Lord and Savior and accept the gift of eternal life which is freely offered to all who believe in the atonement of the Christ on the cross which makes possible a relationship with the God who upholds everything that has ever does or will exist.
After that date, the most significant dates are 92) my graduation from USMA West Point on May 28, 1989; (3) my marriage to my wife on December 11, 1999, the (4) births of each of my four sons; and (5) the promise God made to me in October 2008 that each of my sons would have a saving relationship with him.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2016 6:13 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 May 2016 18:13:38 -0400

The days I saw my son and daughter born. I was so happy each time, I cried. Also, when our first grandchild was born. She was a miracle baby arriving four months early she weighed 2.1 pounds. My daughter was in trouble too, losing a lot of blood with a blood pressure of 200/100. God came to their rescue and today my granddaughter and daughter are healthy as a horse. My grandson Carson and granddaughter Caroline when she was younger.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2016 6:18 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 May 2016 18:18:37 -0400

1. My two kids being born 2007 and 2010
2. My Marriage to my Wife
3. Receiving a call from a 2 star General from my training command saying I made Major. I missed the call but I have it saved on voicemail.

Response by PO1 Brian Austin made May 23 at 2016 7:44 PM

PO1 Brian Austin — Mon, 23 May 2016 19:44:28 -0400

Aside from my own birth :). The birth of our first child, our daughter. She was born unresponsive. Took about a minute and a half or so to "jump start" her, as the nurse said. The longest, most harrowing minute of my life, along with trying to keep my wife calm.

The births of our next two were just as important, thankfully much more routine.

Response by SPC Sheryl Koch made May 23 at 2016 8:13 PM

SPC Sheryl Koch — Mon, 23 May 2016 20:13:55 -0400

For me it was raising my right hand in service to our nation. I had been diagnosed with a desiese and PTSD before joined. At 18 i walked into a USMC office. I found out I could not Service till I was stable by medical for five years after the Radioactive iodine treatment needed for Graves desiese and the toxic gouder. My heart broke. The time line was five years.
My family had served from the time we came over on my father's side in world war one.
At 26 i found out the age requirement had been extended to 34. I went straight to a Navy office. At 28 i swore into the Army National Guard as you can have 60% disability max and still serve depending on medical waivers needed. I am now medically retired combat vet. I had wanted to join from the first time I saw one grandfather's Navy uniform and the others Army.

Response by CPO Amb. Terry Earthwind Nichols made May 23 at 2016 8:46 PM

CPO Amb. Terry Earthwind Nichols — Mon, 23 May 2016 20:46:23 -0400

For me - Beirut - April 18, 1983 - I could see the smoke on the horizen. The Amphibious Group Med 1-83 was steaming up and down the coast ready for evacuation if necessary. We stood at wartime steaming for three weeks. Powerful memory still today...

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2016 8:47 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 May 2016 20:47:24 -0400

The single most impressive period of time had to be the time between 1964 and 1986 that included enlistment and retirement.
The biggest impression made on my life was the 18 months I spent being aware that on any day I could lose my life at the end of a gun, mortar or rocket. That perspective on life where at any one arbitrary moment I was at the mercy of an unseen enemy. And you know the spooky thing about it. I am alive.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made May 23 at 2016 8:47 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Mon, 23 May 2016 20:47:49 -0400

When I was 6 months old my parents didn't want my brother and I so we were adopted. Best thing that ever happened to me. My new parents guided and directed me to make the person I am today. They are my REAL PARENTS. Proof anyone can bring kids into the world, but real parents are the ones who are with you through thick and thin!

Response by SSG Warren Swan made May 23 at 2016 8:48 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Mon, 23 May 2016 20:48:26 -0400

The second swearing in session at MEPS Baltimore. That's when I knew it was real, and it was about to go down. And the Stan.

Response by PO3 Michael James made May 23 at 2016 9:09 PM

PO3 Michael James — Mon, 23 May 2016 21:09:26 -0400

Honestly, COL Burroughs ... My Wife.. You know "in sickness and in health" "For richer, for poorer" What she has been put through for over 40 years !!! WOW, The Most important event in my life.. CHOOSING HER.. Thank You..

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2016 11:58 PM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 May 2016 23:58:39 -0400

_MOST_ important?

Wow...

I'm going to have to take a different tack than everyone else. I think it was the day I first saw my *future* wife. I was fresh back from Desert Storm and starting a new job. I was in the office when I heard this AMAZING laugh, and I thought, "Wow! I gotta see who that laugh belongs to!"
I walked around a corner just as she laughed again (so I knew it was her), and she turned toward me and I saw the biggest brown eyes I'd ever seen.

To quote Dracula in the movie Hotel Transylvania, "We zinged."

I'd never experienced anything like that before - or since. We were married three months later - and this year we're celebrating 24 years of marriage.

I've experienced some amazing things in my life - but NOTHING compares to that. It's impacted my life ever since.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made May 24 at 2016 12:44 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Tue, 24 May 2016 00:44:45 -0400

Vortex turbulence when landing, swapped ends 50 feet off the deck, could see the spot on the runway I was about to impact, then the world going into slow motion as I got it straightened out again and landed normally.
Not a particularly important event in itself, but it allowed me to go on to be able to write this today.
I don't believe that I will ever forget it.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 24 at 2016 10:25 AM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Tue, 24 May 2016 10:25:14 -0400

There are 2 events that have impacted me so deeply that I have wept. Earning my Eagle Globe and Anchor and the birth of my first child. Both of these were predicted by my Drill Instructors.
The single most important will be the birth of my first child because being a father is what I wanted to be.
The one which I will never forget as long as I live is when that Eagle Globe and Anchor was placed firmly in my hand. You never forget it.

Response by PO1 Kerry French made May 24 at 2016 4:09 PM

PO1 Kerry French — Tue, 24 May 2016 16:09:03 -0400

The birth and death of my daughter

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2016 4:22 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 May 2016 16:22:10 -0400

Because of where I was and what I was doing the Cuban Missile Crises.

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made May 24 at 2016 5:50 PM

1SG Cameron M. Wesson — Tue, 24 May 2016 17:50:37 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Unfortunately, I can't with any honesty that there was a single event in my life that I consider to be the most important to-date... as there are probably a dozen or more.
The event that made the biggest impression on my life that I'll never forget as long as I live is rather black/dark. It was Central America 1984... it was the first time I was fired upon and returned fire... and saw another soldier die. It was in that moment that I realized that "conflict" was dirty and brutal... and unbiased! It would kill another... an equal opportunity employer if you will. I learned this at the ripe dumb age of 18 and that life can be taken away in the blink of an eye... and that each day should be lived to the fullest. It was also the day I made my piece with "Sky 6" that when he calls me forward... whenever that is... I won't bitch... I won't moan... and I won't ask for anymore time... I'll thank him for the time I was given... and apologize for things I have done.

Response by SSG William Jones made May 24 at 2016 6:36 PM

SSG William Jones — Tue, 24 May 2016 18:36:07 -0400

Unquestionably, it was when I committed my life to the Lord Jesus Christ. I was 10 years old in 1958 when the most important thing in my life took place. I learned that we can’t earn salvation; we are saved by God’s grace when we have faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. All you have to do is believe you are a sinner, that Christ died for your sins, and ask His forgiveness. Then turn from your sins—that’s called repentance. Jesus Christ knows you and loves you. What matters to Him is the attitude of your heart, your honesty. You can do nothing more important!!!

Response by GySgt William Hardy made May 24 at 2016 9:58 PM

GySgt William Hardy — Tue, 24 May 2016 21:58:40 -0400

The night of May 1, 1969. I have told this story before. Before that date I was a snot-nosed young boy with no thought for others. I arrived in Danang RVN. Shortly before our arrival the ammo dump in Danang had been hit. The reception area was leveled. The people working there had cleared a concrete slab and had tables and chairs where they did the in-processing. There were piles of rubble all over the place. We were placed in trucks and driven to Camp Tien Sha, a CB Base. We ate supper and then laid in our racks in their gym which was converted into a temporary transit quarters. About the time we were hitting the sack, we got hit. There we were, about 300+ Marines and no weapons. We were depending upon the Navy for our protection that night. After a bit the mortars stopped and the 50 Cal stopped firing. I suddenly realized that this was for real. From that day forward I was a changed person. I had been in the Corps for 2 years and was only a lowly senior L/Cpl. I attacked my new duties with all the professionalism I could muster. I learned every job in the Communication Center and was selected to learn off-line encryption and decryption. I left Vietnam as a Cpl and the first week at my next duty station I was promoted to Sgt. Instead of being the goof off or skater as we called them, I found myself with 3 years in the Corps and a Watch Officer (or Trick Chief). We didn't have officers on shift and I was filling an O1/2 slot. I can honestly say, because I survived, that Vietnam made a man out of me. Life has been good ever since.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2016 10:00 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 May 2016 22:00:43 -0400

Most important event, I would have to say becoming a father. You hear about it and read about it but don't really know until you go through it, its an amazing experience. Its a great responsibility and reward that never stops.

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 25 at 2016 12:23 AM

COL Charles Williams — Wed, 25 May 2016 00:23:21 -0400

911

Response by CPT Kurk Harris made May 25 at 2016 2:10 PM

CPT Kurk Harris — Wed, 25 May 2016 14:10:47 -0400

August 31, 2000. I married my wonderful wife. Since then I have had a number of smaller, significant events. Deployments, and returns home (we both served, and deployed separately). Completing college. Having 4 wonderful kids (2 sets of twins, because we were too busy in the Army to deal with numerous pregnancies). Retiring from the military. Through each of these and many other events, she has been my partner, my coach, my cheerleader, my mentor, my critic, and my greatest blessing. Without her I wouldn't have accomplished 1/3 of what I have. She is my anchor.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2016 2:25 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 May 2016 14:25:17 -0400

It was time to make a move when coming home to find dinner plate broke and knife and fork bent. Joining the Army was the greatest life event for me.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2016 3:24 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 May 2016 15:24:05 -0400

Funny actually, getting arrested. I made a stupid choice the winter of 2013. I was on my motorcycle speeding at... well I guess you can say "the speed of death". I ended up getting arrested for it. You may ask yourself why this was the best thing that's every happened to me? Well at the time I was signed up to go active duty in a field completely different than what I am in now. Because of the arrest, I lost my spot in the MOS and delayed my enlistment by 6 months. At the time, I was extremely bummed, but once everything was clear, had the charges dropped to a lower punishment I was able to "enlist again". This time I got an MOS that was in my field and I met some of my best friends in AIT. It was definitely a blessing in disguise.

Response by MAJ Michael Pauling made May 25 at 2016 8:18 PM

MAJ Michael Pauling — Wed, 25 May 2016 20:18:39 -0400

The day I served in Afghanistan and saved a life intead of taking one

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 8:14 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 08:14:28 -0400

9-11, it changed everything

Response by LTC Jesse Edwards made May 26 at 2016 6:46 PM

LTC Jesse Edwards — Thu, 26 May 2016 18:46:25 -0400

This is easy.

Meeting my wife 6 months after high school. From that, everything followed.

Response by Deborah Gregson made May 29 at 2016 3:17 AM

Deborah Gregson — Sun, 29 May 2016 03:17:43 -0400

Several events listed here have impacted my life, like being married, Sept. 11th, my Salvation.

But the defining event that brought me where I am today happened on Aug. 24, 2002 when my mom fell off the bed she was standing on to turn on a ceiling fan in the middle of the night at my sister's house in Colorado where she was visiting. She hit her neck on a dresser resulting in her being a C3,4,5 incomplete quadriplegic at the age of 71. At the time I was in NC helping care for my mother in law who had dementia, and my other sister was in CA living about three hours away from where my parents actually live in Petaluma. About six months after her accident we were able to get her home, and since then with the help of a few hours a day from caregivers my dad has been able to keep her at home.

The most difficult thing is that now my parents are 85, didn't always heed the advice of their perpetually 10 year old daughter, and have run out of funds to pay for help, repairs and needs. I'm in Petaluma right now checking on them and trying to arrange for a few mobile home repairs, but their having few funds makes it difficult, and I have come to the conclusion that dad's at the point where he really can't be caring for mom anymore. That's going to be a really difficult conversation to have in the near future with them and my sisters, but I'm the oldest and the most wicked of the sisters, so it's my job to do what is right and best for them.

I've learned tons of stuff about caregiving, services, medical and insurance issues, programs, and the vast amount of needs that aren't met at all by anything if you don't have money. It's allowed me to help hundreds of others by sharing what I know, and they then share with others. That's been the greatest gift from this journey with our families the last 15 years, being able to help make the path others follow a bit easier, and helping them know they aren't alone.

Response by TSgt Joe C. made Jul 10 at 2016 7:48 AM

TSgt Joe C. — Sun, 10 Jul 2016 07:48:21 -0400

Being born would be my first, marrying my wife on the Fourth of July in 2010 was another milestone!

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Jul 10 at 2016 9:56 AM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Sun, 10 Jul 2016 09:56:42 -0400

Sorry for the duplicate

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Jul 10 at 2016 10:00 AM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Sun, 10 Jul 2016 10:00:06 -0400

Turning 80 last November 10th....

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2016 11:06 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 11:06:58 -0400

Same as Stephen, for me it was the moment the lights came on that Jesus is the way, the truth and the light - and I found Him through science.

Response by 1LT Susan Bailey made Jul 12 at 2016 3:21 PM

1LT Susan Bailey — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 15:21:45 -0400

You know, for me, this is a tough question! I have had several events in my life that I could probably point to as the most important, good or bad. For example, there was that one time that I had a car accident while out with a friend. She was driving and the two other lanes going in the opposite direction were never ending, yet, just went she over corrected for for going off the side of the road and we crossed all the lanes and hit the guardrail on the other side of the road, there was a break in the traffic. The right front wheel was pushed into the passenger side, and my shoe flew off my foot and hit the back window. I managed to get out of the car unscathed. Given that the traffic resumed its continuous path and I could have been killed, I think this definitely qualifies as one of the most important events. In the daylight the car looked much worse, and my friend's Dad called to make sure I was really okay. That night I really felt like God was looking out for me.

Then there was the night that I was on my first night shift as the only RN, and Charge Nurse on my ward at WRAMC on the Head and Neck Surgery unit and 3 months into the job as a new nurse. One of my patients had a reoccurrence of their neck cancer and was on blowout precautions (meaning the tumor could eat through the jugular or carotid artery) and so we had to have a visual on them at all times. The patient didn't want the door open, so we compromised and put it half way open. Well, when you work on a unit you really get to know the normal and abnormal sounds and those things that should cause alarm or not. I heard a wet sound coming from his room, so I went to check on him. He wasn't in the bed. But there was a lot of blood in the bed, across the floor, under the chair where my patient was, in his lap and down his gown. He actually was bleeding out, his tumor had indeed gotten through the jugular. I immediately applied first aid principles and placed gauze all around his tracheostomy and applied some pressure. I also hollered for my colleagues to call everyone on the surgery rotation from intern to Surgeon of the Day. I wasn't going to waste any time going up the chain. All three came to the floor and you could hear them grumbling on the way down the hall. Mrs. McPherson directed them to my patient's room. They all repeated what I did and looked from the bed across the floor to me where I stood straddling the blood in my white utility dress uniform with gauze all around the trach. My patient was "talking" to me and was very calm. He couldn't really voice anything with the trach in, but he was mouthing the words. The Docs asked me what was happening, I explained what was going on. They went out to huddle and came back in the room. They actually said to me "Well, you're the ENT nurse, do what you think you should". DId I mention that I was a new nurse at the time? They don't really teach you about this stuff in school, or orientation as it were. And if I knew what to do, I wouldn't have called them! Oy! So I suggested calling his family so they could come in and spend time with him. The Surgeon flatly refused. I argued, he ordered me not to do so, and left the Intern with me to make sure I didn't. In the meantime, we got the patient cleaned up, and settled back in bed. I was determined that he make it through the shift so I his family could come in ASAP. I essentially spent most of the rest of the night with him through more bleeding incidents, and tried to keep him as comfortable as I could. Talked with him as he reminisced about his life. Fortunately, I had very strong staff members on with me and they could handle the load that night. As a new nurse, this really was a pivotal moment for me. He was a DNR, and I really had to think of things to help him and let him get some rest in between episodes. In fact at one point I found myself holding his head off the side of the bed for quite some time. This was the only time I was grateful for push-ups. We gave him supportive treatment, and as soon as the Intern finally left at 0600, I called the family. They came in and he made it through the day to visit with them. He later bled out in his sleep and was found by my colleagues. The blankets were pulled up pretty high so it wasn't obvious what was happening. He reminded me of my grandfather (the only one I ever knew and looked up to) who died while I was in OBC, from cancer too. I felt like he was there, and helping me out. I never prayed so hard in all my life as I did that night.

These are just a couple of events that had a real impact on me, and were very important to making me the kind of nurse and person I am today.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2016 7:40 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Jul 2016 07:40:52 -0400

The births of my children are by far the most important events of my life. That moment signifies when I learned unconditional love and true selflessness.

Response by SSgt Robert Marx made Jul 15 at 2016 3:29 PM

SSgt Robert Marx — Fri, 15 Jul 2016 15:29:56 -0400

My most important event would be my acceptance of the salvation wherein Christ freed me from the yoke of bondage. The second would be marrying my "trophy wife" who accepts, encourages, and aids me in this walk of life. The third is the birth of the finest daughter imaginable.

Response by Kim Bolen RN CCM ACM made Jul 15 at 2016 6:07 PM

Kim Bolen RN CCM ACM — Fri, 15 Jul 2016 18:07:04 -0400

I Plead the 5th on both questions Mikel!

Response by PFC Teresa Walker made Jul 16 at 2016 12:07 AM

PFC Teresa Walker — Sat, 16 Jul 2016 00:07:49 -0400

Being abandoned by a husband I truly thought was a gift from God, and that only death would part us, left alone, disabled, and penniless, with no help from the state I was divorced from him in, lost my home, my possessions steadily being stolen from a garage I could not secure, being unbelieved about the illness that has disabled me because it doesn't show "outward" signs, fighting the system to get compensation for the vaccines that stole my whole life, filled it with not only the pain and agony of the physical suffering, but the pain of not being believed by those I love most. Being cut off and losing contact with a grandson I raised until he was four, then taken from his mother, and custody given to her sister, with absolutely no concern with ripping him from me, the only one who had been his security, in all of this, only my God, has been my comfort. I still pray, and hope, for restoration and a life that can be used to comfort others who have been wounded likewise.

Response by SGT Brent Scott made Feb 3 at 2018 7:31 PM

SGT Brent Scott — Sat, 03 Feb 2018 19:31:23 -0500

The day my 3rd child was born and I knew that I had finally reached my true goal of a 5 part family!!!

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2018 7:54 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Feb 2018 19:54:19 -0500

My marriage over 42 years ago.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2018 11:28 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 Feb 2018 23:28:21 -0500

The day they opened the air transport door - and the heat, humidity, sounds, and odor hit me - to be quickly followed by my very first day serving in mass casualty triage, prep, surgery, and recovery care. I thought USC+LA County Hospital ED / Fort Sam had prepared me - but this was the real thing mass casualty care 12 on / 12 off day after day - huge change in sense of organization and sense of responsibility for myself, for my patients, and for my nurses and medical care staff. Warmest Regards, Sandy :)

Response by SrA Alvin Cook made Feb 4 at 2018 11:06 AM

SrA Alvin Cook — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 11:06:14 -0500

The birth of my first child. That was the point where I stoped living for myself and realized I needed to start doing more positive things in life/leave a positive mark in my community. Be a example of the type of MAN I wanted my sons to be and my daughters to Marry

Response by Shauna Rickert, CSM made Feb 4 at 2018 6:11 PM

Shauna Rickert, CSM — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 18:11:13 -0500

The day I accepted Christ!

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Feb 5 at 2018 10:30 AM

Maj Marty Hogan — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 10:30:13 -0500

Would be hard pressed to pick only one.

Personal growth- high school graduation, joining the military, and commissioning late in my career. Deployments, college, and now a masters program are all game changers.

Soul growth- birth of my son, death of my father, BMT, and all listed above. Divorce. Marriage.

What was the most important. They all had small feeds into where I am right now and all make me the individual I have become.

Never forgets- saying goodbye to my father knowing it would be the last time I saw him alive. Graduating from Louisiana Tech and when I walked across the stage a 9-year-old stood on his chair and yelled that's my dad. The day I found out I would be moving from E to O.

Life is a challenge- I will always attempt to meet it head on, but I can't ratchet everything down to just one event. Great question Col.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Feb 5 at 2018 11:53 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 11:53:35 -0500

COL Mikel J. Burroughs: Reaffirming my Baptismal vows; and, therefore, accepting CHRIST as my SAVIOR!

Response by Sgt John H. made Feb 5 at 2018 11:55 AM

Sgt John H. — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 11:55:03 -0500

COL Mikel J. Burroughs , the single most important event in my life will always be marriage to my wife. This is for the obvious reasons. The second most important event, because of the continuing impact, was the death of my son. Both events tugged me in different directions but it was my wife that saved me from the effects of the loss of my boy.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2018 1:11 PM

Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 13:11:47 -0500

The most momentous moment in my life was/is when I surrendered my life to Christ! My initial surrender was at age 6, then I found that I must surrender everyday for it to be Effective!!! HOORAH !!!

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Feb 5 at 2018 1:42 PM

SPC Brian Stephens — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 13:42:20 -0500

When I gave my heart and my life to Jesus.

Response by SPC Woody Bullard made Feb 5 at 2018 1:54 PM

SPC Woody Bullard — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 13:54:34 -0500

A two part answer COL Burroughs. At 39 meeting the woman that made my life complete with
our marriage. At 43 being with my wife in the delivery room watching our daughter enter the
world and take her first breath of air. The God given miracle of life.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Feb 5 at 2018 4:08 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 16:08:12 -0500

What single event in your life do you consider to be the most important to-date? 1.) The day I was aved by Grace through faith. 2.) The day my wife said yes.

What event made the biggest impression in your life that you'll never forget as long as you live? The birth of my daughter. I realized that my purpose was to raise and protect her and it wasn't about me or my wife any longer. It gave me a whole new purpose and perspective in life.

Response by Sgt Albert Castro made Feb 5 at 2018 4:14 PM

Sgt Albert Castro — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 16:14:14 -0500

Can't answer that one definitively. There have been many important events to name just one. Marriage, kids, decision to volunteer for Military service, a 20 year commitment to Fed L.E life. Can't really pick just one I don't think. Great topic though.

Response by SSG David Andrews made Feb 5 at 2018 4:53 PM

SSG David Andrews — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 16:53:08 -0500

There are too many to just pick one. The number one would be my salvation by Jesus Christ my Lord. Number two would be school graduations. Number three would certainly be finding and marrying my wife. Number four would be the births of my children. Number five would be the births of my grandsons, Number six would be retirement.

Response by 1SG James Matthews made Feb 5 at 2018 5:00 PM

1SG James Matthews — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 17:00:41 -0500

Recognizing the need to allow Jesus Christ into my heart and to tell Him You are in charge.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Feb 5 at 2018 5:42 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 17:42:35 -0500

Holding my grandson when he was born, and then 10 yrs later taking him to meet the Adjutant General I have known for 41 yrs.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Feb 5 at 2018 7:18 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 19:18:47 -0500

For me, it’s when this little one entered the world. Nothing will ever be the same!

Response by SPC Douglas Bolton made Feb 5 at 2018 9:38 PM

SPC Douglas Bolton — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 21:38:39 -0500

COL Mikel J. Burroughs It has to be when my bride said yes thirty years ago.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Feb 6 at 2018 1:12 AM

PVT Mark Zehner — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 01:12:38 -0500

My kids being born!

Response by SFC Jerry Sodan made Feb 6 at 2018 1:14 AM

SFC Jerry Sodan — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 01:14:35 -0500

I’ve been a soldier and I’ve been a Police Lieutenant. Becoming a father and Grandfather are the most important

Response by CMSgt Steve Pennington made Feb 6 at 2018 1:26 AM

CMSgt Steve Pennington — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 01:26:54 -0500

This is a difficult question. After our marriage, I think it is the birth of our children. Our son was born when I was in Vietnam and it took the Red Cross almost a week to tell me. I was with my wife for the birth of our daughter at delivery. Beyond that perhaps it was our childrens graduation from college. Coming under fire for the first time was an important event and I am still in touch with my friend Ralph Casida, who I was with at the time. The births of our 4 grandsons were important. I guess now, every day is important.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 3:15 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 03:15:39 -0500

My ordination to the priesthood.

Response by CW5 John M. made Feb 6 at 2018 3:17 AM

CW5 John M. — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 03:17:31 -0500

The rejection of secular atheism and materialism in Sep '73 for a (non-denominational) relationship with Biblical Jesus. A burning stick plucked from the fire (Zechariah 3:2). What is truth? (John 14:6). For me, all other great events are secondary.

Response by PO2 Jeffrey S. made Feb 6 at 2018 4:18 AM

PO2 Jeffrey S. — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 04:18:04 -0500

July 20, 1969 when we landed on the moon!

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Feb 6 at 2018 5:22 AM

MSgt John McGowan — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 05:22:30 -0500

COL Mikel Burroughs —Good Morning Sir. There is so many impressive things that define a person’s life. So very many that I will put all mine together and just say it’s been a wonderful ride. Just to look back and recall decisions made, actions taken and we know there is no do-overs. I going to say my wonderful life, my family and knowing someone has my back. I love life. Good Day to You Sir. Your questions really makes a person think. Thank You for being there for us Sir.

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made Feb 6 at 2018 5:41 AM

MAJ Montgomery Granger — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 05:41:07 -0500

9/11/2001. Changed my life forever. Important? Beyond that. Peace is so important to me that I would lay down my life to help provide it to my family, my loved ones and to my fellow Americans. That's why we serve, and that's why we must WIN the Global War on Terror. Until all Islamists are dead or no longer have the means or will to kill us we must defend ourselves. Hooah!

Response by SFC Kenneth G. made Feb 6 at 2018 6:10 AM

SFC Kenneth G. — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 06:10:56 -0500

I would have to say the single most important event in my life was graduation from Drill Sergeant School. It was the only graduation my Dad was ever able to attend in my life and he sure was proud of the moment and of me.
The biggest impression on me in my life was joining the Army. It helped me to grow up and to find direction in life.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made Feb 6 at 2018 6:19 AM

PO3 Phyllis Maynard — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 06:19:08 -0500

This is a great testimony opportunity question COL Mikel J. Burroughs. I am on the same journey path as LTC Stephen F.. In the fall of 1991, I recommitted my life to Jehovah God and I got on my knees in my baby's playroom and asked Jesus to bring his love and forgiveness back to my heart and continue to be my mediator, Lord and Savior. But, that did not come first. My, then 17 month old baby was dying from no apparent reason. All test were negative for illness or disease, but he was fading away and his pediatrician was helpless to do anything medically. But she said something so weird to me , at the time. She said he is failing to thrive because you have no maternal love for him, you only provide the best materialistic life for him. Well, on that day that I recommitted my life to the Lord, A Voice gently said to me, "If you can love him, he can live". I fell on my face and begged God for my son's life and made a commitment that I would devote my life to him until he was well able to make his own way in the world. One week later, when his prognosis previously was I would need to start planning his burial, we were back at the pediatrician office. He had gained 2 pounds and was crawling and climbing all over everything in the office. That was 29 years ago. I can't see or prove HIS Heavenly existence, but the proof is in my life everyday.

Response by SPC Mike Lake made Feb 6 at 2018 6:36 AM

SPC Mike Lake — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 06:36:49 -0500

Definitely giving my life to Christ when I was 15 changed my life forever I wouldn't be here today if I didn't

Response by SPC Brett Curry made Feb 6 at 2018 7:23 AM

SPC Brett Curry — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 07:23:29 -0500

That's a hell of a question. There's so many, how do you pick one when all put together is why you are who you are today.
But I was have to say my wife. The best and worst thing that happened to me. She saved my life and showed me real love for the time in 33 yrs. 10 wonderful yrs together. I only raised my voice once in 10 yrs. She never raised her voice. The the car accident that took her just about took me and I wasn't even there.

Response by LTC Jeff Shearer made Feb 6 at 2018 7:34 AM

LTC Jeff Shearer — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 07:34:47 -0500

No particular order but I think the best/most important parts of my life:
Getting Married, she became my best friend
the day my son was born, wow!
I could go on but the issue with that is I would most likely give away my age. Then all of yall would think I am old as dirt hahaha I kill me

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 7:48 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 07:48:57 -0500

I have to agree with LTC Stephen F.. The most important event was the day I was saved by my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I can't tell you the exact date like so many people can, but I can take you to the seat I was sitting in up at the very top of the balcony in the chapel at Covenant College in Chattanooga, TN. It was the summer of 1984 and I was there for a youth camp with my church.
Also pretty high up on the list are the day I married my wife, the days that each of my four children were born, and the day last August that I found out that I had been selected for promotion to LCDR which ensures that I can stay in to retirement.
As far as major historical events, which based on the image is what I think is the focus of the post, I would have to say the terrorist attacks on 9/11/01. In my lifetime that has been the biggest, paradigm-changing event that I can remember.

Response by 1SG Klayton W. Hayes made Feb 6 at 2018 8:03 AM

1SG Klayton W. Hayes — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 08:03:20 -0500

1. My acceptance of Jesus as my Savior.
2. My marriage to my best friend of 45 years.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 8:41 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 08:41:09 -0500

Definitely September 11. We have not been the same since. If we don't get it together as a nation, the evil ones will prevail. We were unified for a very short while. People returned to church for a very short while. Then what?

Response by SSG Donald H "Don" Bates made Feb 6 at 2018 8:44 AM

SSG Donald H "Don" Bates — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 08:44:02 -0500

My marriage to Jan, the mother of my four children was the most important in my life and though Jan is gone, the gift of great kids continue to give!! I am blessed to have them! Being made speaker of The Surge Real Live Cow Show made the biggest impression as it gave me confidence, spoke to over 50,000 people one summer and for a shy farm boy, that made an impression.

Response by SFC Walter Lovett made Feb 6 at 2018 8:46 AM

SFC Walter Lovett — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 08:46:38 -0500

The single most important event of my life was the day I realized that I was a sinful person destined for an eternity separated from my God, Jesus Christ. I felt ashamed of how I had lived my life and understood the Jesus’ sinless sacrifice on the cross paid for my sin and yours. I bowed my head and asked Him for forgiveness and accepted His free gift of Salvation through the grace of God.

My life has been forever enriched and blessed by my relationship with Jesus Christ, the one true God. That was when I was 9 years old, and I have no doubt that His hand of protection has been with me throughout my entire life. I pray you too have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

If you want to know more about this click this link: https://chataboutjesus.com/

Chat About Jesus

Response by SFC Ronald Moore made Feb 6 at 2018 9:14 AM

SFC Ronald Moore — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 09:14:02 -0500

The day I fully surrendered my life to Jesus.

Response by SGT(P) Michael H. made Feb 6 at 2018 9:26 AM

SGT(P) Michael H. — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 09:26:37 -0500

Dislocating my hip in the Special Forces Qualification Course, better known as The Q. I wouldn't have been out of training to be where I was the night I met my wife, and I wouldn't have my beautiful little girl today if that "accident" had not ended my SF career right there. Life is often about trades. Some people say "one door closes, another opens". I think it is trading one "good" thing for something far better! It's all about perspective.

Response by Sgt Vance Bonds made Feb 6 at 2018 9:37 AM

Sgt Vance Bonds — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 09:37:06 -0500

I don't know, I mean, I should say all my children but then there was Afghanistan and my LEO career. My marriage......i don't know. I think I probably should be embarrassed

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Feb 6 at 2018 9:46 AM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 09:46:19 -0500

I would have to agree with LTC Ford. Other days (outside of family which he also mentioned,) that came immediately to mind was the assignation of JFK, and of course, 9-11. On that fateful day in November, I lost a great deal of innocence. I suspect that was true of most of us boomers. From that time on I was much more aware of the world and specifically the evils that surround us. 9-11was a time of personal agony for so many. I unfortunately know several people who lost loved ones on that day.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Feb 6 at 2018 10:02 AM

LTC John Griscom — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 10:02:57 -0500

Marriage, children, transition to civilian status as a Department of the Army Civilian (DAC). I mention the last item because it allowed me to have more of an impact on medical operations in Europe.
And my youngest son was just promoted to MSgt in the Air Force.

Response by PO2 Kristine Lilja-King made Feb 6 at 2018 10:05 AM

PO2 Kristine Lilja-King — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 10:05:26 -0500

The day I was told I was pregnant with my son/the day he was born. He is now Active Duty Army and has two Iraqi tours under his belt. I am so proud of him...he has given me 3 beautiful grandchildren.

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Feb 6 at 2018 10:33 AM

Capt Christian D. Orr — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 10:33:39 -0500

At the risk of sounding like a politician talking out two sides of my mouth, I have a two-part answer......

From a Big Picture/Grand Scheme of Life standpoint, 9/11. I was 26 y/o at the time, and 16 days shy of my graduation from USAF Officer Training School (OTS); my OTS Basic Officer Training (BOT) class, Class 01-08, became the very first post-9/11 OTS BOT graduating class.

At a more deeply personal level: graduating from my enlisted USAF tech school training at the Security Forces Academy, Lackland AFB, TX, on 04 Feb 2000, and moreover being the Top Graduate (thus receiving the Sgt. Louis H. Fisher Award) to boot. That gave me both the professional pedigree and the personal confidence that made all my subsequent career successes, military (including the aforementioned OTS graduation & commissioning), Federal civilian law enforcement, and private military contracting alike, possible. Hooah and thanks be to God!

Response by MSgt Billy Zuber made Feb 6 at 2018 11:12 AM

MSgt Billy Zuber — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 11:12:14 -0500

I will agree with what many others here have said. The day I was saved by grace through faith. Grace is unmerited favor. That was What I experienced. The other event was the day my wife said "I do". She has been my supporter, my defender, my best friend. She stayed with me through good times and bad times, and during times when she would have been better off leaving. God created her just for me, and I am blessed.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 11:20 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 11:20:51 -0500

For me it was the realization that God is in control. And no matter how much I want to be in control, HE is ordering my steps and my path. My only job is to obey him and trust him. Pretty tall order sometimes. He has provided every blessing in my life. Some of those lessons very painful, but I learned from them anyway.

If you are right with The Lord, you are right everywhere else.

It sounds simple, but people try to complicate it anyway.

God Bless you all.

Tommy

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Feb 6 at 2018 1:17 PM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 13:17:05 -0500

There were two special events that occurred well after my Army retirement and connected with my religious faith. When I baptized and confirmed my wife Elizabeth on 4 Dec 2010 that was one of immense joy after years of denial on her part. But the best was yet to come and one that gave completion and a new beginning in our marriage.

We were ready for one of God's blessings that took special preparation and faithfulness--that of being sealed as husband and wife for time and all eternity in the Baton Rouge Louisiana Temple on 9 July 2014. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints understand fully this sacred event, but for those of you not of my faith that special ordinance means Elizabeth and I are sealed for the eternities in the Celestial Kingdom of God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ--so long as we stay obedient and faithful. Our marriage is no longer "Until death do we part." That sealing was performed under the full priesthood authority of the First Presidency of the Church given by our Lord and Savior.

Not all on this website can comprehend the seriousness and sacredness of these two events, but please know they are most special and unique to Elizabeth and me.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 3:34 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 15:34:34 -0500

A Wife who supported me all these years, the ups and downs and still around. Oh, the Harley too, she bought it.

Response by SGT Mark Halmrast made Feb 6 at 2018 4:28 PM

SGT Mark Halmrast — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 16:28:33 -0500

Jesus. Rescued me. With kindness and love, unmerited yet freely given.
Stuck in a mess of my own making, Jesus got dirty, wading with His white robe into the muck. He lifted me, carried me to solid ground, and while I stood in rancid shame...not deserving of even the smallest act of kindness.. He put is arms around me and said, "Mark, I love you."
No judgment. No condemnation. Just love. Pure, unconditional love.
My life has never been the same.
He changed my life. Forever.
Thank you for the question COL Mikel J. Burroughs.

Response by SSgt James Tadlock made Feb 6 at 2018 9:22 PM

SSgt James Tadlock — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 21:22:21 -0500

Regrets, I've had a few, but then too few to mention.

Response by PO3 William Carrien made Feb 7 at 2018 12:10 PM

PO3 William Carrien — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 12:10:29 -0500

That's a hard question to answer, so many times you think this one then before you know it something else comes around.
First, you enlist, then you show up at boot camp and you think, now it's this one, hen it's graduation day. Then, it's the first cruise. Before you know it, you're questioning yourself, Do you stay in or accept a discharge. The day you got married then the day your child is born. Like I said, tough to say.

Response by SSG Michael Eastes made Feb 9 at 2018 2:17 AM

SSG Michael Eastes — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 02:17:11 -0500

Accepting Christ as my savior, followed by marrying my wife. We were both 91C students at Valley Forge General Hospital (Army) when we met. We celebrated our 45th anniversary last month. She worked on me and prayed for me for over 20 years, and I finally got the message in 1994, that Jesus Christ is exactly who He said He was. Yes, I am a slow learner.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 12:56 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Feb 2018 12:56:30 -0500

Birth.