What do you wish you had known before your first assignment?

SGT Robert Pennington — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 10:57:28 -0400

Do you wish you had taken more online classes, made more friends, took advantage of the on post programs? What advice do you have to soldiers about to start their first assignment In the real army?

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Aug 18 at 2015 11:01 AM

SCPO David Lockwood — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 11:01:18 -0400

That is a geat question. I wish I knew what I could expect from shipborad living than I did.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2015 11:10 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 11:10:13 -0400

Oh man, where to start? Take advantage of all the education available on base. Take advantage of the MWR on base. Dont be a barracks rat (as in dont stay in the barracks all of the time). Listen closely and carefully to those that have been in the squad/platoon longer. Be prepared to be messed with. Roll with the punches.

Response by SSG Skylur Britz made Aug 18 at 2015 11:32 AM

SSG Skylur Britz — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 11:32:02 -0400

That my chosen MOS only goes to 5 places in the world, really wish I would of taken part in more post sports/ events.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Aug 18 at 2015 12:23 PM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 12:23:54 -0400

Keep your mouth shut.(silence is golden) learn when you get there. Not saying if you have question not to speak. Just don't think you know it all. Learn from the people above you. Bust your ass in everything you do! show you have the knowledge and the want to improve and to learn. Be where you are supposed to be when you are supposed to be there and in the proper uniform. Carry a note book and pen. Take notes. Read and learn from said notes. Stay away from the panther piss, and the clubs off post. You will do fine.

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made Aug 18 at 2015 1:25 PM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 13:25:42 -0400

That civilians can be "in charge" of military people and drink on the job. Almost cost me my career!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2016 7:32 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 May 2016 07:32:31 -0400

If you have time get enrolled in some DL college courses. Get through your SSD's as quick as you can and don't be afraid to ask questions. Get there early and stay late, learn everything you can. Learn from the Good NCO's and what not to do with the bad ones. Find a good mentor and stay in his/her hip pocket. If you can do this you will stay well ahead of your peers. Good luck.