Posted on May 13, 2018
What habit(s) have you been unable to break after leaving the military?
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Just to start the conversation, I still make sure that my 'gig' line is straight every single time I get dressed.
Training
Basic Training
Boot Camp
Military service
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 209
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I'm a baseball umpire on the side and when I attend my first professional umpire clinic several years ago (Jim Evans Desert Classic), I was one of the few that knew what a "gig line" was!!! Don't like strings hanging on my clothes (and umpire uniform!); umpire hat is ironed and my plate and base shoes are always shined, pants ironed and shirt wrinkle-free. I agree with SGT David Reynolds (although I wasn't Infantry), eating too fast!
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Gig line for sure, especially for a format event. Even at home while watching sports, when the National Anthem plays, I'll remove my head gear and either sit quietly or. if I'm standing, I'll stand at attention.
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CSM Charles Hayden Passed 7/29/2025
I do not advise dummies that; “Oh, Say can you see” means to hit it and render a salute! I will nudge the lady friend if she slips.
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I would have to say:
Use of Phonetic Alphabet.
When returning from travel or camping, I emulate returning from the field. Gear cleaned and stowed, suitcases unpacked and properly stowed, dirty clothes in the hamper or even better washed, coolers cleaned out and stowed, that sort of thing. Get it done so you don't have to do it later. Also, that way the camper is more ready to go for the next trip.
Use of Phonetic Alphabet.
When returning from travel or camping, I emulate returning from the field. Gear cleaned and stowed, suitcases unpacked and properly stowed, dirty clothes in the hamper or even better washed, coolers cleaned out and stowed, that sort of thing. Get it done so you don't have to do it later. Also, that way the camper is more ready to go for the next trip.
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Sleep....I sleep soundly but hear everything in our home. If something breaks the pattern I am up. 0500 wakeup is automatic. Always early to appointments. Only smile when it is necessary. Listen more than you talk. Look folks in the eye. Think about what you would do different when you screw up. That's what 30 years in the Army does for you.
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Yes, 30+ years after RETIRING from the the Navy, I finally no longer am possessed by ensuring my "gig line" is straight, but I REMAIN addicted to coffee. Black coffee, coffee with creamer, flavored coffees, well.....I simply LOVE the stuff! I drink at least 8 to 12 cups per day.
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PT.I swim a mile 5 days a week and work out using body straps. Also bike about 5 miles on weekends when I can get a chance.
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I still carry everything in my left hand, my arm will start to get tired before I realize I can now carry things in my right. I am early for everything and I still say Good Morning everyday to civilians who have no clue what customs and courtesies are. They just walk right by, don’t even look up. Civilians can be wanks ; )
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