What great things have you accomplished on RallyPoint & have you made some key connections?

2015-08-27T10:04:52-04:00

What great things have you accomplished on RallyPoint and have you made some key connections? TELL YOUR STORY!

IT’S NOT BRAGGING, IT’S A TESTIMONIAL TO THE SITE - What can we all do better?

Some of you won't have anything good to say and they may be a reflection of the way you approached it or you ran into a "bad apple" along the way. I'm interested in positive stories!

Here’s my story:

I have made some very strong friends on RallyPoint and you know whom you are.

I was able to get some great photos of members when they first entered the service - outstanding pictures!

I have helped several veterans behind the scenes personally get back on track with their lives and that makes me feel really good inside.

I have worked with a great team of individuals to help a veteran try to get out of debt, but mostly just provided support for their great efforts.

I've meet a great Veteran Advocate on RP and I'm helping to get her word out to veterans in need and I'm trying to help her build her organization, so it’s self sufficient.

I've had people send me message asking for my advice or help - thank you for letting me serve after retirement.

I've been able to provide some of my personal leadership traits and ways of doing business with others in a positive fashion.

I've posted an article on how to Transition into a new leadership position with slides and agenda to be used by all.

I've connected with many civilian recruiters and RallyPoint Members that can help veterans get jobs and I've referred them. I will continue to do that.

I've connected with over 14,915 members and I personally have thanked them for their support and service to this country. I will continue to help in anyway I can when I receive a message. If I can't solve the issue I will find someone on RallyPoint who can help

I'm working with a great group of RP Members on some very critical papers on how we can fix the VA. They are very intelligent and smart people. We will be successful in my mind.

I've met some great Colonels out there much smarter than me and I continue to learn.

I've learned a lot about other military services and made friends in every branch on RallyPoint.

I've had the chances to share concepts on Leadership and get into great discussions about it. Hopefully I've touched some individuals!

I've tried to be very diplomatic, professional, and respectful in all my responses no matter what is said or how it said. For the most part everyone that I've communicated with from Private, Civilian, to General Officer has reciprocated in the same fashion. I thank you all for your professionalism.

I've worked hard to help veterans that have business that are providing services to veterans through my post on getting them additional funding or ideas on to improve their businesses.

I've connected with a great veteran who is building a wall of photos for those that have fallen in Vietnam. An awesome cause!

I've try to help civilian family members with their Family Support Group by soliciting information from all the great experts on RP.

I have connected with many veterans, active duty personnel and retirees outside of RP on LinkedIn and Facebook!

I develop two "A Teams" of great RP members that really go the extra distance to respond and post great feedback!

I have developed some strong relationships with some of the Administrators through mutual respect and discussions

I try to provide Motivational Quotes every day of the week for all my connections and members to provide an uplift for the day.

I recognize all the great influencers on RP when they hit milestones.

I work hard to prevent further suicides through awareness with my role as the Chairman of the Board for Victory for Veterans Foundation.

ENOUGH SAID! RallyPoint can be a great place to meet new friends, help each other, help people in need, and build strong connections outside of RP

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Aug 27 at 2015 10:18 AM

2015-08-27T10:18:17-04:00

I have been able to encourage people who were discouraged.
I have been able to share my faith in Christ to RallyPoint members near and far.
I have connected with everybody who has sent me a request. One of the things I most appreciate about RallyPoint is that it is rank independent. I can have open and frank discussions with E-1's through Flag Officers.
I have made many connections with people who have turned out to be good friends even though we have not seen each other in person yet.
LTC Stephen C., MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca, CH (MAJ) William Beaver, CPT L S CW5 Private RallyPoint Member, SGM Steve Wettstein, CMSgt Mark Schubert, GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad TSgt Hunter Logan SSgt Private RallyPoint Member, PO1 John Miller, PO3 Steven Sherrill, SGT Randal Groover, SGT Robert Hawks, SGT Forrest Stewart, SrA Christopher Wright, SPC Private RallyPoint Member

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 10:20 AM

2015-08-27T10:20:34-04:00

Apparently, my claim to fame is a comment I made on a thread about an "extremely classy dress" that was worn to a military ball...lol.

All jokes aside, I have made some connections w/ some really great people that I hope to meet someday!

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Aug 27 at 2015 10:26 AM

2015-08-27T10:26:47-04:00

The chance to talk to people who've walked my walk, talked my talk, and engage in conversation without rank being a factor, is the greatest thing I've seen from RP. I just wish there was a way for the mentorship that is shown here to have been implemented to the same degree to the troops when I was in, and given to those still serving.

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made Aug 27 at 2015 10:31 AM

2015-08-27T10:31:27-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Sir, I have made some key virtual connections as you know - you and I have had some "offline" discussions about how to best serve our RP members! Like LTC Stephen F. I feel blessed to have been able to engage with people and share my faith with them.
Oh, and I got 2 down votes! :-)

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 27 at 2015 10:33 AM

2015-08-27T10:33:11-04:00

As someone that has been on this site pretty much since launch, this site has been very good to me and I've enjoyed it through all the past 3 years or so.

Thanks to RallyPoint and the trust of the staff, I've been able to take some of the situations we discuss here to the public by being one of the public spoke people of this site. Thanks RallyPoint I've been able to not only share my personal story but convey how RallyPoint has been a critical link in the chain of my transition to civilian life in such media articles as People.com and other world class business journals and publications. Through these articles, not only are we talking about RallyPoint but we are addressing the issues facing Veterans and the gap that exists between civilians and Veterans. We have allowed people to read about this idea of changing the conversation from one of pity for the Veterans to one of wanting to help lift us up without babying us. We have discussed ways employers can truly make an impact by successfully writing and targeting their job announcements for Veterans.

RallyPoint has also been a great place for me to learn from some amazing leaders of all ranks and branches. It has allowed me to gain better insight into how issues are playing out across the country and how Service Members and Veterans view their own transition. Thanks to RallyPoint and all the members, I feel I'm a more well rounded person able to speak more on some of these topics because of the amazing input I receive here in these forums.

This idea that LTC Yinon Weiss once had only on a napkin outside a restaurant has truly turned into something that more amazing that he or anyone else probably thought of. Sure we have had our issues from time to time. We have had some great days such as RPx last year and some sad days with learning that some members weren't able to shake the ghosts and ended up taking their own life but through it all we have continued to demonstrate to not just the military but to the civilians the power, insight, and knowledge that a group of highly motivated Service Members can briing.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Aug 27 at 2015 10:45 AM

2015-08-27T10:45:39-04:00

What I have seen since coming aboard a relatively short time ago, is a great mix of current and former military people. Not to mention none of the racial issues that is seen on other sites. From what I have seen, we are of a very similar mind, just as I remember it while on active duty. Perhaps I was lucky to be on submarines, but all that mattered was getting the job done. Any harassment done back then was in good spirit and was taken as it was done. Kudos to RP for the site that I hope is around for a long time. Also, very limited nastiness as seen on other sites, disagreements, but little downright hate speech.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Aug 27 at 2015 10:56 AM

2015-08-27T10:56:54-04:00

Rally Point has helped me finally get past my mental hangups I had about my time in the service. It is filled with good people, and a sense of community. After discovering what a solid community Rally Point is, I wanted to be a positive member of the community. I have tried to be post insightful, relevant, or thought provoking ideas sprinkled with my sarcastic and cynical personality. I discovered that I do have an emotional response to seeing veterans mistreated (most especially by our on VA), and that I have a great sadness at the struggle of those struggling with PTSD.
I have connected with some AWESOME people (there are too many to list here, and I don't want to forget anyone so I will refrain) that make me think, challenge me to evaluate my own positions on issues, and sometimes just laugh my ass off.
Overall I am extremely glad that I stumbled upon Rally Point, and gave it a chance. I describe it to people as what would happen if Linked In and Facebook had a love child, and that love child enlisted in the military.
Thanks to all who have made me laugh, cry, and think.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 11:22 AM

2015-08-27T11:22:03-04:00

I have connected with some very nice people. I have learned from reading posts from many and varied viewpoints. I have hopefully encouraged and helped some others.

Response by SPC Scott Lindquist made Aug 27 at 2015 11:26 AM

2015-08-27T11:26:56-04:00

I like your site, im pretty new to it. I'm hoping to find guys who was stationed at Fort Ord in 1985/1986

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 27 at 2015 11:28 AM

2015-08-27T11:28:48-04:00

"To us and those like us, there's damn few of us left!"

Connecting and reaching out to brothers and sisters who know what's its all about has been a blessing. A lot of times you feel like the only one in the room because you don't have anyone who can relate to your experiences or your humor or the "meaning of life" because they've never worn a pair of combat boots. That all changed here on RP. Now the room is full of us!! I got to attend and speak at the RP for Business meeting in Boston this year and that was a real treat!! I had the pleasure of meeting Yinon Weiss, Elizabeth Malkin, Brandon Charters, Laurie Deitemeyer from the staff along with several other members of the RP community to discuss transitioning and employment issues.

Response by TSgt Melissa Post made Aug 27 at 2015 11:30 AM

2015-08-27T11:30:08-04:00

I haven't been on here that long but so far I have received support and advice from so many leaders in our military of today and yesterday. I absolutely cherish their input and experience. As the old saying goes "Life is too short to make all the mistakes, so learn from others" this can be applied in many ways. I have posted one professional and one general interest thread and for the professional one, I have received an enormous overflow of feedback. Not only that but I have received from every branch, from current and prior, from enlisted and officer. It couldn't get much better than this.

I really enjoy RP because for some it may be just another social media outlet but for me it is a safe social media, a professional social media, and it is a social media in which I have a common lifestyle with all the contributors. I'm sure FB, Twitter, Instagram, and whatever else out there all have their pros but here it is strictly military and I just connect in a whole different way with other military members than I do with civilians.

I don't remember how I stumbled upon this place, but I'm really glad I did!

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 27 at 2015 12:00 PM

2015-08-27T12:00:02-04:00

Ok, then there was that whole RPX 2014, funniest member award thing-ee...
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/rpx-2014-funniest-member-nominees

RPx 2014 "Funniest Member" Nominees! | RallyPoint

Here is your list of nominees for the 9th of 11 RPx 2014 Awards: Funniest Member. As always, we welcome your debate and encourage feedback. Funniest Member Nominees: [~45358:SSG Robert Burns] [~78818:SSG V. Michelle Woods] [~8084:SSG Scott Williams] [~203177:MAJ Robert Petrarca] Respond with your choice, vote up an already existing response with your choice, or nominate a well-deserving member we didn't think of. We'll tally up the votes an...

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 12:04 PM

2015-08-27T12:04:47-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs, I would like to think that some of my answers to questions, past life experience stories that I've have shared and the advice that I've given has helped someone out. I also enjoy learning something new each day by reading all the post made by everyone. I love interacting with everyone on RP. The connections to people are just and added bonus.

Response by SPC Robert Mcnally made Aug 27 at 2015 12:06 PM

2015-08-27T12:06:55-04:00

You are definitely accomplished , as a veteran myself, appreciate EVERYTHING you are doing for veterans. Thank you sir.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 12:22 PM

2015-08-27T12:22:21-04:00

I have made some interesting connections and have become friends with quite a few members. I enjoyed seeing my friend, Louie Meza, who I served with, join and participate in RP discussions.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 1:48 PM

2015-08-27T13:48:44-04:00

I have made some great connections here and I help out where/when I can. I think great accomplishments in relation to myself on Rallypoint are yet to come. Time will tell.

Response by SSgt Khanh Pham made Aug 27 at 2015 3:16 PM

2015-08-27T15:16:10-04:00

I was pretty much invisible to the world prior to 2014, no one knewed anything about me or where I am. I started getting active on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and from LinkedIn connected to RallyPoint. This complete stranger to me, michael synan, invited me to RP. I jointed solely on the purpose of helping another veteran build RallyPoint into a place for other veteran to hang out. I knew nothing about it, and nothing about anyone relating to it, including the stranger from LinkedIn.

RP has the same effect as any other internet forum. It also has the common background and interest in military. Something I can be proud of so far?

Well I think I actively tried to not condescend on other people's thought and opinion. Usually motivated to move any subject toward a useful end.

There were some old folks out there that may not be able to hear a unique perspective, and I think RP provided the vehicle for me to present my unique perspective.

Thought is no different than other tools. It can be used for good or bad. RP is a good venues for excercising thoughts. Fairly safe environment, with plenty of people to call out bullshit if one start spewing crap. I think the excercises of thoughts on RP is a possitive accomplishment, as the community is positive outcome oriented. Having a culture of positive outcome orientation is an accomplishment in itself.

There are some connection made, but no additional activity from those connection. Either I am being followed, monitored, or people just need a casual connection and not ready for more involvement. People all have their personal lives which consume their time of day. We cant possible help or actively sustain deep connection with everyone. I appreciate those who seeked to connect with me. I also welcome any personal comments for me directly. RP is a positive point on the internet for veteran.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 3:41 PM

2015-08-27T15:41:05-04:00

CPT Private RallyPoint Member 1LT Private RallyPoint Member CPT Private RallyPoint Member CPT Private RallyPoint Member talked me into this video about LTs saluting....

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Aug 27 at 2015 3:42 PM

2015-08-27T15:42:28-04:00

I've angered a lot of conservatives? I don't know probably nothing..

Response by Sgt Spencer Sikder made Aug 27 at 2015 4:08 PM

2015-08-27T16:08:16-04:00

Other than learning much, I can't pin point a particular accomplishment. I feel comfortable that sometimes my input has cause some to ponder an alternative solution to their issue. And it may be too early to find out if my suggestions have benefited their cause. Especially when it comes to VA claim processing.

I appreciate much of the dialog I have read on this site. While I may disagree on how to resolve a particular matter, it doesn't mean that the resolution proposed is a bad one. I think that saying, "nothing ventured, nothing gained" fits some of the resolutions I don't agree with.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 27 at 2015 4:40 PM

2015-08-27T16:40:31-04:00

Col Private RallyPoint Member created a thread about 2 years ago about this very thing. I think it will compliment your thread nicely.

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/what-s-your-rallypoint-success-story

What's your RallyPoint "success story?" | RallyPoint

So, how has RallyPoint helped you find your next military assignment or helped to transition to the civilian community? How has it helped to answer a critical career-related question or helped to provide valuable insight into your career?  Also, has it helped you to make any valuable contacts--or helped reintroduce you to former coworkers or supervisors--that have proved to be influential, helpful,...

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Aug 27 at 2015 5:27 PM

2015-08-27T17:27:32-04:00

"What great things have you accomplished on RallyPoint and have you made some key connections? TELL YOUR STORY!"....COL Mikel Burroughs

I probably have not accomplished any great things on RallyPoint, Colonel & have been looking to connect with some guys who served with the !st Radio Co, FMF Force Troops. It was one of the first Marine Corps units in Vietnam with 42 men among the early arrivals in January 1962 at Pleiku.. It later grew to the 1st Radio Battalion in Vietnam with in country service from 1962 - 1975.

But I do find the political commentary very interesting & sense a lot of frustration with the current administration.

I did attend the Army ASA Radio School at Fort Devens MA & the only Marine in my class. I also attended the Navy DF Radio School at Charleston SC & all Marines in this class.
I was selected for OCS as a Sgt (E-4) but accepted an offer for the Apollo Program. And had second thoughts about that decision for a lot of years.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 27 at 2015 5:56 PM

2015-08-27T17:56:09-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Great post Colonel. I am recovering from a catastrophic accident that killed someone, amputated another guy's legs and messed me up pretty good as well (a kevlar mooring line parted and we were in the way). My injuries may have career-ending implications for me, and for the last little while, I have been pretty depressed, aimless, at times even hopeless. After finding RP, I've made new friendships and connections, and found purpose in coming and talking with a group of people that I have a built-in connection with. I can literally say that RP is helping me feel better on a day to day basis. Which is not to say that it's a crutch by any means -- I have plenty of tools in the box -- but it does add some purpose and brightness to any given day.

I had one tool tell me to 'enjoy your fake internet points, Greg', and thought to myself, yeah, it's just points to you. To me, it's interaction. Connection. Human contact.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Aug 27 at 2015 7:26 PM

2015-08-27T19:26:28-04:00

mmhhhh....I'm not really sure other than to help out....encourage or maybe discourage in some situations.....made a lot of contacts with really great Vets/Peers. Learned a few things...well learned quite a few things....and had some good debates....well, maybe a few that some got upset over..lol

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 27 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-08-27T20:28:47-04:00

I have done nothing great, I am just following the ebb and flow of the currents.

Response by Maj William Raney II made Aug 27 at 2015 9:07 PM

2015-08-27T21:07:53-04:00

Well said sir. Semper Fi.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 9:12 PM

2015-08-27T21:12:06-04:00

I have been here for a while. I go way back on this site. Almost as far back as the SGT Ben Keen. I have been able to learn so much and actually met some great people. Which SGT Ben Keen was one of them along with so many others. I also got an Award. I got the "Most Runway Discussion" at RPx 2014. It was a blast. But everyday I learn a bit more and Rally Point becomes every yet again better. I have became a better officer thanks to RP and I will still improve.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2015 9:36 AM

2015-08-28T09:36:20-04:00

I joined RallyPoint upon recommendation from a friend. We were both going through OCS at the time and thought it would be a great way to connect with others who had gone through the program and in general just keep up with what all is going on across all branches of the Armed Forces. I ended up connecting with some great people, received awesome mentoring, and still do.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Aug 28 at 2015 7:59 PM

2015-08-28T19:59:57-04:00

Since being on this forum I have made some damn good connections... Mark and James to start with!! I also hope that I have made a few of you think in a positive way and put a smile on a few more of your faces. I began my "tour" here in a negative way and brushed a lot of People the wrong way due to arrogance on my part mostly, but had a Discussion with James palmer ( If you guys havent met him, your missing a very awesome and caring person) and have learned that there are two sides to every coin. I am far from perfect but with the guidance you guys provide I can say Im a better person then when I 1st joined !!!

Response by SPC Mark Beard made Aug 29 at 2015 6:22 PM

2015-08-29T18:22:15-04:00

I have had the honor to meet and greet so many of you my Brothers and sisters in arms and to be able to thank each and everyone of you for your service which is my honor and I really enjoy doing this on and off the computer to me this site is like walking into my American legion post buying you a drink for your service and sharing the brotherhood we all have earned this site is out standing !!!!!!! SALUTE

Response by SSG Leo Bell made Aug 29 at 2015 6:24 PM

2015-08-29T18:24:52-04:00

I have been able to make great connection here and meet some old friends. I've learn a great deal from others and been able to give helpful advice. I've made some good friends on RP.

Response by SFC John Durham made Aug 29 at 2015 6:56 PM

2015-08-29T18:56:14-04:00

I think just being able to stay connected with Military personnel. Whatever the branch or status may be is a blessing. Made a few connections so far! Just maybe I will say what someone needs to hear. You just never know.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-08-29T21:20:35-04:00

Sir, COL Mikel J. Burroughs you were the first to reach out to me on RP, although I have not been a member for very long, the members have made me feel very welcomed. I know that some of my posts have been in outer space, some aggressive, some even down right "dumb", I still try to maintain respect for all my brothers and sisters.
I feel that I have made friends and have received advice from the best that RP has.
Every day that I am interacting, is a day that I am the winner. I hope to be able to maintain the aquaintences and develop full fledge friendships.

After being out of the service for 47 years, RP has enabled me to recognize some of my weaknesses, and with its help and along with the VA, I have been developing a list of "stuck" points to move my life forward.
The comraderie from this community is every bit as strong as being on active duty. And the relationships with my fellow Vietnam vets is "awesome".

Thank you RP, and members of the community for your support and just for "being there. And thank you again, COL Mikel J. Burroughs for reaching out.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Aug 30 at 2015 11:10 AM

2015-08-30T11:10:46-04:00

The ability to help Active Duty and veterans struggling with life issues, as well as helping veterans with disability and compensation issues...

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 30 at 2015 3:53 PM

2015-08-30T15:53:39-04:00

I gave a couple pep talks. That's it.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2017 7:13 PM

2017-03-28T19:13:35-04:00

Without RP, I wouldn't had been able to create a partnership with the French Army Reserve Staff Officer College's Course in Basic Staff Operations and be the first 'officer' to graduate from the program. Now TRADOC is looking at sending Cadets and junior officers to the course. That's a direct proof that RP is really making a difference in the community.

I also received very valuable information about both military and civilian related topics.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jun 19 at 2017 7:39 AM

2017-06-19T07:39:54-04:00

I've gain a lot of insight and knowledge from a lot of the great members on Rally Point, and gained a lot of new friends too.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 8:18 AM

2017-06-19T08:18:14-04:00

Getting there. Made some awesome connections so far!

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 8:20 AM

2017-06-19T08:20:03-04:00

Accomplished some things while in USMC but only with a lot of help. None would qualify as great either. The closest thing to going it alone was enlisting 86 Marines 84-87. I have to believe some of them made contributions, so I'm indirectly involved in that. Probably the proudest achievement of my wife's and mine was raising a responsible daughter and son. Conception was the best but it was a lot of fun after that as well. Children don't come with an Instruction Manual and we learned along the way. It wasn't always pretty but they still made it through college and are productive, responsible citizens. I'll always be proud of them and although we provided the support and guidance, they actually did the work. We just did the worrying.

Response by MSgt Stephen Council made Jun 19 at 2017 8:40 AM

2017-06-19T08:40:40-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs I have reviewed and provided input on resumes to young Soldiers and Airmen as they separated and embarked on civilian careers. I mentored a young Airman as she worked through the waiver processes to join the Air Force.

Response by PO2 Richard C. made Jun 19 at 2017 9:37 AM

2017-06-19T09:37:07-04:00

I'm a relative newbie to RallyPoint and am still learning and developing a corps of contacts and friends. I've been out since 1970 and have found that RP fills a gap I didn't know existed in my life. The gap was communicating with people who I could relate to even though I don't know them (yet). I don't always agree with what someone says, but I respect their right to that opinion because they earned that right with their military service. All of us who served honorably know we have a special commonality most civilians can't understand. I hope in the near future to contribute more to the common cause than I have so far.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 9:47 AM

2017-06-19T09:47:14-04:00

I am fairly new here, I have not had much time to interact nor achieve anything substantial. I do enjoy reading discussions and giving my input when I can. I look forward to potentially learning a thing or two from colleagues on here.

Response by MSG Mark Million made Jun 19 at 2017 9:48 AM

2017-06-19T09:48:53-04:00

You have been a great asset to our community and to all that have served. I noted one particular area of interest that you work on and that is fixing the VA.
From personal experience I would say that the single biggest thing the VA could do in order to improve is fix its hiring process. The typical VA hiring process takes 6 months with an employee able to start work 2-3 months after they know they are getting the job. One of the biggest reasons there are delays in care is because there are shortages in staff. If staff can't be up to standard for up to 6 months at a time it creates delays in care. I believe that if employees were provisionally hired after passing a local background check, (waiting for official full time employment dependent on passing the Federal Background check), those employee slots would fill faster creating fewer delays in care related to staffing shortages.

Response by PFC Jim Mills made Jun 19 at 2017 10:10 AM

2017-06-19T10:10:23-04:00

This is an on going achievement for me to do better and share things that I've learned and experienced. I like to share my faith, thoughts and my feelings to help me better connect with my brothers and sisters young and old . I'm still in the process of relocating and intend to step up my game and get involved by starting a veterans group in Georgia. I will strive to be a better fellow man and example of what I've learned through my upbringing in a military family and during my own military experiences !

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Jun 19 at 2017 10:53 AM

2017-06-19T10:53:03-04:00

COL MIKE BURROUGHS- thank you for first responding to me when I became a member of Rally Point. Not going sit here and write long story but I never checked the news or social media or was even interested in social media before I was introduced to RP. I was really hurting on my resume skills and communication skills with others. Kind of to myself I guess. Now I blog every morning and do QAs and I enjoy myself here on RP. I have met a lot of wonderful people MIL and CIV and retired people who I never would of had a chance to remotely speak to while if was serving in the ARMY because of their rank. We all have or good and bad days and we tend to write about them here on RP. Nice place to come and let it go sometimes. I've expressed a lot here about my transition from the military to civilian life and my PTSD side that I want people to know about. Thank you for listening and being a shoulder. Thank you COL MIKE BURROUGHS- for writing the introduction to my book THE MIRROR about PTSD and hoping it will be out this December or 2018. Rally Point is already going through major changes and I have nothing to add on that. I think you have the right people running the show right now, some day I wish to be a part of your team and help veterans like myself, too many homeless veterans out there who need someone and veterans with problems that can log on to RP and find the answers, most PROFESSIONAL SOICAL MEDIA WEBSITE I've seen thus far.

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Jun 19 at 2017 11:10 AM

2017-06-19T11:10:09-04:00

Rally Point came to me out of nowhere during an incredibly low time in my life. It got me through an even lower time. Without it? I got nuthin.

Response by Sgt William Biggs made Jun 19 at 2017 11:19 AM

2017-06-19T11:19:29-04:00

My claim to fame is having written 4 Command Post articles. It felt pretty awesome to get published on the site and see the conversations it started.

I've also made a lot of great connections. I think one thing everyone can do better is invite more people!

Response by PO3 Sandra Gomke made Jun 19 at 2017 11:28 AM

2017-06-19T11:28:44-04:00

Well, I started out here with the purpose of "outing" a poser. Thanks to RP, the poser has stopped his lying, bragging, chest puffing. But I stayed for the camaraderie. I've made some great connections here. Brothers and sisters wanting to help our Veterans here at home. As a card carrying member of the Blue Star Mothers, I have recommended RP to other mothers. Their service members need to know there's a network out there to help them. Whether they're active duty or veterans. I've learned a lot about our military and about our military system.
So, I don't have much to brag about (except the poser), but I love it here!

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 12:16 PM

2017-06-19T12:16:17-04:00

Everyone of you is a GREAT connection, I prize my friendship with each you ! A belated 'Happy Father's Day' to every Father, you Are HEROES to me & to your children !!! With the eventualities of life being what they are these days, please conduct yourselves as such, our children are such delicate creatures,please conduct yourselves as the HEROES you Are !!! God Bless everyone of you !!!

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Jun 19 at 2017 12:29 PM

2017-06-19T12:29:08-04:00

I have made some connections that I would not have made without RP. Vacation in Vegas- CPL Eric Escasio gave us some great places to look around and offered to show us around. We had an action packed trip set up, so we could not hook up but was nice to get a message. I love reading the leadership ideas and seeing how the services handle them differently but the same. I realized I am more old school than I thought. Progressive yes old school in my ways. I also like helping if at all possible and a few have transferred over to Facebook friends as well. Appreciate all your mentoring here as well COL Mikel J. Burroughs Setting up for today and for what comes next.

Response by Cindy Umanzor made Jun 19 at 2017 12:30 PM

2017-06-19T12:30:18-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Thank you for connecting me to your network of thoughtful individuals! I've only been part of the RP community for a few weeks but I've felt very welcomed and appreciate you including me in your posts.
Your willingness to share our post recruiting active duty U.S. service members has helped create buzz about the study on RP. We've had two people from your network join and have 810 to go!

Response by Sgt Albert Castro made Jun 19 at 2017 12:34 PM

2017-06-19T12:34:25-04:00

I was lead to this site by an A-10 pilot friend and co-worker of mine.. I have always valued my military service in the USAF and many years in the Army NG. Being an Airman/Soldier was easy for me (so to speak. PT and forced marches suck. LMAO) I never really intended to accomplish anything in particular on RP but really enjoy rubbing elbows and hearing what other warriors have to say on topics these days. Like the "Briefs" on RP and have made some really cool connections here. Can you tell I think the RP is "good to go?" Damn right it is! Thanks COL Mikel Burroughs for all you do for all of us on the RP Sir. To all on the RP, have a kick ass week and be proud always.
OOHA!!

Response by CPL Eric Escasio made Jun 19 at 2017 1:22 PM

2017-06-19T13:22:28-04:00

If I had found out about rallypoint a long time ago not just this year. I could have been smiling a long time ago.

Response by SP5 Robert Ruck made Jun 19 at 2017 1:32 PM

2017-06-19T13:32:12-04:00

I've met some really great folks here on RP. I've learned an awful lot of history including a lot of background info on Vietnam and the living hell those soldiers went through. I've shared some laughs and yes some tears with other Vets. I've been insured by some of the accomplishments of fellow Vets after they leave the military. All in all RP has been and continues to be a wonderful experience for me.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Jun 19 at 2017 1:35 PM

2017-06-19T13:35:14-04:00

I once got about 30 downvotes for calling a POS a POS... i still can aspire to greatness & strive for a personal best...

Response by CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern made Jun 19 at 2017 1:59 PM

2017-06-19T13:59:30-04:00

Whenever you are exposed to anything in life, it is an opportunity to learn for the first time.

RallyPoint provides this opportunity through the exposure of massive experience and knowledge eagerrly shared for all to benefit.

I am grateful I found the site, the welcome received, and the support and positive reinforcement from comments on my posts.

What have I accomplished on RallyPoint is a connection with fellow veterans I have not had in many years. I consider every connection a "key" connection. I have so much to learn from all.

Response by SGT Eric Knutson made Jun 19 at 2017 2:28 PM

2017-06-19T14:28:49-04:00

For myself sir, running into a few old comrades that I have served with over the years, finding one of my guys who was going to get out, wound up staying in because of a few things I talked to him about, and he made it to retirement, while still married to the same woman, that was the crowning achievement for my time IN uniform, but I found out about it through here. Otherwise, it is being able to contribute to some of the discussions here, and sometime just vent my spleen (thanks to all who tolerate that part of me) with people, who may or may not agree with what I said, will and have helped me grow further than I was. But mostly it is for the calming effect it has on me for my real time in the world here is Albuquerque. I am much more calm on the streets because of this, Thank you again to all, even the one or 2 morons that I have bumped into, even you have helped me along the way.

Response by SGT Steve Hines-Saich B.S. M.S. Cybersecurity made Jun 19 at 2017 2:39 PM

2017-06-19T14:39:23-04:00

RP is a place where I really feel like myself...as I work through the transition process and finish my education. There are veterans here who understand that...and give practical advice. I do myself to assist others who may benefit from my experiences and know how.

Response by SSG Eduardo Ybarra Jr. MS Psyc made Jun 19 at 2017 3:52 PM

2017-06-19T15:52:15-04:00

I am still in my infancy being a member of this great site. As far as making a difference in someone's life or an impact on someone's well being, I can't definitively say that I have accomplished this. As well I haven't run into any negative experience or something that would be considered "off pudding". I am hopeful that the longer I am a member here this may change.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 4:34 PM

2017-06-19T16:34:30-04:00

I have met some Amazing people!

Response by SSgt Robert Marx made Jun 19 at 2017 5:16 PM

2017-06-19T17:16:15-04:00

I have connected with some very great people but more than anything I have done or said, RallyPoint has assisted me far more than I can repay.

Response by PO1 Aaron Baltosser made Jun 19 at 2017 8:14 PM

2017-06-19T20:14:57-04:00

I've made some great connections here. I get to do a meet up in Bear Butte State Park in August this year because of that. I've been able to use what Navy knowledge, and people knowledge here that would have been worthless if I had not found this site.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jun 21 at 2017 10:19 AM

2017-06-21T10:19:38-04:00

The connections are great, it helps bring and give insight, and it helps provide reinforcement for me and possible guidance for others

Response by CMDCM John F. "Doc" Bradshaw made Jun 22 at 2017 12:48 AM

2017-06-22T00:48:40-04:00

Have met New Brothers and Sisters and some old acquaintances!!! Excellent place to keep in touch and network!!!

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2017 8:50 PM

2017-06-23T20:50:13-04:00

I am quite new to RP but in the short time I feel like I have been able to add some good input, provoke thoughts, and help introduce our internship program at OweYaa to some great members. Overall, I look to continue to stay actively engaged, provide help and advice where I can, receive great advice and continue to learn more from and about the community we all belong to!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2017 11:14 PM

2017-06-23T23:14:21-04:00

Recontacting previous colleagues via RP helped me recover from PTSD,.
I hopefully have managed to help a few other service members on RP.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Jul 11 at 2017 11:50 PM

2017-07-11T23:50:10-04:00

What I have accomplished is being able to respond openly and as honestly as possible to many challenging scenarios and questions that are posed on the site without worrying about any reprisals. While there may be those who have been or who have attacked, I have not experienced either of these scenarios to my responses; on the contrary I have found good levels of conversation and deeper thought put into many subjects that are approached here. I have found a level of respect for all viewpoints, and that is how problems are solved.

Response by PO3 Steve Bagley made Aug 5 at 2017 2:35 PM

2017-08-05T14:35:55-04:00

As soon as I was verified on this site I got a welcome by col Mikel Burroughs

Response by SSG Antoinette Azevedo Toscano made Nov 26 at 2017 6:27 PM

2017-11-26T18:27:41-05:00

I have made some great connections with current and former military and have found a place where people with similar experiences can communicate freely. I appreciate RP very much.

Response by SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter made Nov 26 at 2017 8:13 PM

2017-11-26T20:13:43-05:00

I really enjoy this site there is very valuable information shared among the members. Issues that Veterans are facing is a key topic of mine. This site allows folks to find out information that others already have experience in. This is a great site from my perspective!

Peace!