What is the worst part about being a service member or veteran?

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:06:23 -0400

I know that we are (or should be) proud of our service. I, like many, believe that my experience in the military made me a better person and is definitely something that I am glad to say that I had the opportunity to be a part of. That being said, not everything is sunshine and rainbows. Although there are various positives that go along with having served, the world is not perfect and because of this, there are always negatives that come along with things. What is the worst part about having served or presently serving in the United States military?

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 11 at 2018 8:25 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:25:24 -0400

Working for assholes.

Response by SGT Daniel Rocco Ames made May 11 at 2018 8:29 PM

SGT Daniel Rocco Ames — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:29:35 -0400

Did you kill anyone/lose any friends.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2018 8:32 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:32:36 -0400

Being killed in an easily preventable training accident. Next: being killed in combat. Everything else is first world problems.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2018 8:34 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:34:17 -0400

I know you don't join the military to get rich, and I know I was young then, but the pay was pretty lame, especially when compared to comparable levels of experience in some police and fire departments. Barracks life as a single junior enlisted Soldier wasn't great. If those two things had been different, it would have been much better.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2018 8:41 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:41:53 -0400

The worst part of retirement for me was moving from an organization (military) that demands accountability, responsibility, transparency and fosters pride into a civilian world that shares none of these values. City and county government is a prime example and seems to be full of people that focus on one thing and one thing only, a paycheck. In other words, I am blessed to have served in the military.

The worst part about having served was not being there for my family when they needed me.

Response by SGT John C. made May 11 at 2018 8:42 PM

SGT John C. — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:42:01 -0400

In the case of myself and many who I have served with in the ARNG it is the "last minute" phone calls because of Mother Nature or some other event that got us activated. At least with my Federal activation for deployment I had a bit of warning but when Mother Nature stops taking her meds those calls can be a nightmare for anyone who's prep work was half assed and their family is left to deal with whatever they didn't get done.

Response by SFC Stephen King made May 11 at 2018 8:51 PM

SFC Stephen King — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:51:14 -0400

Having to leave

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2018 8:51 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:51:18 -0400

Veterans.

Response by LT Michael Watson made May 11 at 2018 10:11 PM

LT Michael Watson — Fri, 11 May 2018 22:11:58 -0400

You have realized early in that the world is not made up of sunshine and lollipops. We make a difference every day by doing the best we can on that day, knowing that tomorrow we are going to get up and do it again. Be proud that you answered the call and served when so many others never stepped outside of their box. Be proud that you did what you could do, and want to keep doing. Never, ever think that you didn’t do enough because you did more than anybody could have ever asked you to do. Thank you brothers and sisters, we did it for you, and you have held the line.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2018 11:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 May 2018 23:08:35 -0400

Moving all the time.

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made May 11 at 2018 11:42 PM

SGT Philip Roncari — Fri, 11 May 2018 23:42:39 -0400

I was in the Service a very short time, just one three year enlistment,so I can’t complain about the lousy pay,barracks life,multiple deployments or missing loved ones all those things happened so long ago or not at all in my case,what was the worst part for me is the loss I felt when I left the people who I served with,some good,some bad ,some just a pain in the ass,but all Brothers.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made May 11 at 2018 11:52 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Fri, 11 May 2018 23:52:08 -0400

The bullshit is less predictable. At least we could mitigate some of the BS when we were still serving.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made May 12 at 2018 1:17 AM

SSG Mark Franzen — Sat, 12 May 2018 01:17:27 -0400

I loved being in military as it was my life until it came to a head where I was forced out after 16.5 years now that I am a veteran I have been dealing with a lot I have PTSD and it is no Fun. why were you asking about it?
SSG MARK A FRANZEN
USA VET

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2018 2:50 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 12 May 2018 02:50:03 -0400

My main gripe has always been...Different rules for Different people. That’s Bullshit!!!

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made May 12 at 2018 3:09 AM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Sat, 12 May 2018 03:09:09 -0400

To be Honest - there is no worst part about a vet or service member - sure there may be some instances where it sucked ( being shot at, being away from family, IED's etc etc) but that is what we volunteered for, we had an informed decision - for the most part - especially the newer servicemembers/vets, we have the overall respect and gratitude of the people we served, we have pride in ourselves, - I looked at every PCS as a new opportunity to experience both other countries culture and norms, and different states culture and norms, got out of the barracks or house and explored and immersed myself into the areas hustle and bustle. So - I would say there is no "worst" part

Response by SSgt Scott Ezra made May 12 at 2018 4:18 AM

SSgt Scott Ezra — Sat, 12 May 2018 04:18:43 -0400

I know how stupid I'm going to sound here, but the hardest thing I had to do was retire somewhat young because of medical reasons.
I wasn't just military myself, it was the family business. I was born in an Army hospital and lived on Navy and Air Force bases and then one Coast Guard Air Station in Puerto Rico until I went active duty myself. My dad was in 30 years and my brother 15 and was also retired for medical reasons. Almost all males on my mom's side have served for around 200 years or so.
So for me, it was super hard to go from that to go away and forget everything you knew up until this point in your life and good luck finding something new.
I did it though because I have a very supportive family and friends.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made May 12 at 2018 6:05 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sat, 12 May 2018 06:05:32 -0400

Losing comrades.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2018 10:04 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 12 May 2018 10:04:13 -0400

The worst part of being in the military for me has been being a part of an organization, the Army, that demands accountability, responsibility, transparency, fosters immense pride, and pushes immense stress while balancing a civilian world that, at large, shares none of these values in my eyes. Cynicial, maybe. I see it in my personal relationships, my career, friendships, professional interactions, and civilian life in general. It seems that people focus on one thing and one thing only in order to benefit themselves. These focuses can vary - education, a paycheck, increase in power and societal standing, wealth, and self serving needs. Its me, me, me, versus us, us, us, or you, you, you. Its self-serving over selflessness. In being part of something that is definitively selfless, I struggle with balancing this overwhelming difference. People are quick to blame something/someone else other than be held accountable. People are quick to hide the truth to make themselves look better in the eyes of others. People are first to self-serve themselves, before thinking of others. Yet, I find myself in the opposite camp. I take responsibility for my actions. I tell the truth even though I may lose standing in the eyes of others. I always put others first before myself. This opposite viewpoint does not seem to be the prevailing mindset of society today, and I feel like a minority for being this way.

Response by SSG Steven Mangus made May 12 at 2018 12:03 PM

SSG Steven Mangus — Sat, 12 May 2018 12:03:38 -0400

Hurry up and wait..

Response by LTC Tom Jones made May 12 at 2018 12:05 PM

LTC Tom Jones — Sat, 12 May 2018 12:05:44 -0400

Spending 22 years on AD followed by 26 years in the JROTC classroom believing that my service/efforts were in support of the notion that this country was indeed "a city on the hill" a.ka. "a shining light" that the rest of the world could depend upon and should emulate and then watching it erode into partisan politics, foreign adventurism, "America First" hubris and a swelling population of young people who generally "haven't done anything or been anywhere" but expect the world to be handed to them on a platter. A nation where adult women go on parade dressed as their genitalia and full professors celebrate publicly the death of a former FLOTUS and deal with the fallout with the ultimate profanity. Tell me we are not a nation in decline. A cathartic rant for sure; thanks for asking. SSG Warren Swan SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth SFC Stephen King COL Mikel J. Burroughs CPT Jack Durish SPC Margaret Higgins CSM Charles Hayden SN Greg Wright SFC Private RallyPoint Member LTC Stephen F. MAJ David Vermillion SMSgt Minister Gerald A. "Doc" Thomas LTC Eric Udouj

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 12 at 2018 12:09 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Sat, 12 May 2018 12:09:28 -0400

family separation- not watching your kids grow up

Response by SSG Todd Gregg made May 12 at 2018 1:15 PM

SSG Todd Gregg — Sat, 12 May 2018 13:15:51 -0400

For me it was always separation from family and the lack of control over your daily life. You literally belonged to them 24/7. You really realize how little control you had once you have worked in civilian life for a few years. Don't feel like going to work? Take a day or 2 off. Don't like that job? Get another one. And on and on.

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made May 12 at 2018 1:44 PM

CWO2 James Mathews — Sat, 12 May 2018 13:44:23 -0400

I guess my greatest disappointment in the Navy was being RIFed back to an NCO status from a Chief Warrant Officer. I had qualified as an Officer of the Deck Underway, and as a Command Duty Officer in port, and served on two ships as a Torpedo Division Officer. I thought that I had done a good job. Such apparently was not the case. The disappointment was in my failure to make the grade to remain in service, and the threat of being sent to a command where the Captain was known to have said he was, "just waiting for me." I knew I would never get through a tour on that submarine, so I left the service on 20+years. I know this is a personal concern, but it always has marked, to me, my failure in an effort for which I had a great affection. My later completion of a Bachelors and Master's Degrees, the later with Distinction, served to soothe the sting of my RIF, to some small degree. Respectfully Submitted, J.L. Mathews TMCM (SS), USN (Ret.).

Response by CPO Glenn Moss made May 12 at 2018 2:59 PM

CPO Glenn Moss — Sat, 12 May 2018 14:59:44 -0400

I'm sure there are a ton of things I could say that people would resonate with. But I'll approach this one a bit differently.

The worst part are the people who think that everything is, somehow, rainbows and unicorn farts outside of the military.

Yep, life can suck in the military. No doubt about it. But the fact of the matter is that life can suck EVERYWHERE and, in fact, it does.

Many of the things such people hate about the military, for example, happen to be the SAME things people hate about civilian life.

Like, having to show up to work all the time. Like dealing with *ssholes and idiots. Like not getting paid enough. Like not being able to take time off work when you need to. Like inept management and inept workers.

The list goes on and on.

Sometimes, it seemed like the worst part about being in the military was having to deal with people who hated being there in the first place (never mind they volunteered for it), who make every excuse to b*tch, moan, complain, and general be a PITA and a load on the rest of us.

I wish such people would simply get their act together, work to the best of their abilities, serve their time, and then get out and move on to something more to their liking.

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made May 13 at 2018 12:40 AM

SPC Erich Guenther — Sun, 13 May 2018 00:40:42 -0400

While serving: Police call, C'mon if you can see the wisdom of buying a floor buffer surely you can see the wisdom of buying a indoor/outdoor vac for cigarette butts. While a Veteran: Having to constantly explain to people their misconceptions about the Army are not as always as true as they thought.

Response by MSG Frank Kapaun made May 13 at 2018 9:35 AM

MSG Frank Kapaun — Sun, 13 May 2018 09:35:44 -0400

I retired in 2005 and the army had gotten far too politically correct for my tastes. Under Dear Leader O’Bumbles, and the reign of King George Bush II, it got far worse.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2018 1:12 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 May 2018 13:12:30 -0400

Time spent away from family.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Leake made May 13 at 2018 1:35 PM

SSG Jeffrey Leake — Sun, 13 May 2018 13:35:46 -0400

Being away from family. Deployments, unaccompanied tours, training, etc. Being a veteran, you miss the brotherhood. Watching your brothers and sisters deploy without you. You feel lost at times. You served your time, as did I and many others. Take pride in knowing you did something that many don't or won't.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made May 13 at 2018 5:53 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Sun, 13 May 2018 17:53:24 -0400

There is most Certainly Not One Single Thing negative about being a Veteran; to me. I LOVE being a Veteran/Retiree!

Response by SGT Matthew S. made May 13 at 2018 9:37 PM

SGT Matthew S. — Sun, 13 May 2018 21:37:29 -0400

Having seen the darker side of humanity and knowing the world isn't near as cut-and-dried as many people believe it to be.

Response by SP5 Dennis Loberger made May 13 at 2018 10:28 PM

SP5 Dennis Loberger — Sun, 13 May 2018 22:28:43 -0400

As a draftee, I served for 2 years. I was deployed right out of AIT. Out of my 2 years, I was only home about 30 days. When I got home my boys were 2 and 4 years old. My youngest had no clue who I was. Being without my family for almost 2 full years was the hardest part. I am proud of my service and would do it over again.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made May 14 at 2018 5:22 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Mon, 14 May 2018 05:22:49 -0400

The worst part of my military experience has been serving directly under senior leaders who believed that standardization of requirements and training schedules was more important than supporting the soldiers and their family members SGT Joseph Gunderson. I have fallen on my proverbial sword a few times for my soldiers.

Overall I am proud and grateful for serving in U.S. Army uniforms from November 1974 to May 2008. The soldiers I have led, served with and under by and large have been honorable and responsible.
Thank you for mentioning me LTC Tom Jones
FYI COL Mikel J. Burroughs LTC Stephen C. LTC Ivan Raiklin, Esq. Capt Seid Waddell Capt Tom Brown CW5 Private RallyPoint Member SGM David W. Carr LOM, DMSM MP SGT MSG Andrew White SFC William Farrell SSgt Robert Marx SSgt Private RallyPoint Member TSgt Joe C. SGT John " Mac " McConnell SP5 Mark Kuzinski SPC Private RallyPoint Member SrA Christopher Wright Cpl Joshua Caldwell SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL

Response by CPL Dave Hoover made May 14 at 2018 6:38 AM

CPL Dave Hoover — Mon, 14 May 2018 06:38:23 -0400

SGT Joseph Gunderson keeping stuff bottled up, not wanting to reveal the ghost in your closet, or just not being allowed to share.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2018 8:35 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 May 2018 08:35:59 -0400

Being away from my family for sure. The other thing that has probably cause the most emotional strain is seeing what war does to people. And by that I mean the ones fighting it AND the ones who just happen to live where it's taking place.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2018 8:37 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 May 2018 08:37:23 -0400

Hmmm...interesting question. For me, the "worst" part is looking back and asking "what if". Personally, I think it's a shame we only get the maturity, wisdom and knowledge to be "great" warriors ...once we're too old to go back and use it. There's at least two or three major choices I "could've/might've" made back then that would have led to a much longer/better career (perhaps)...and things that seemed "impossible" then, that now seem pretty freaking attainable. In some...no many ways, I'm a far stronger, smarter, faster (well, ok-at least as fast) tougher "me" now, and that's always going to generate regrets.

At the end of the day however, I remind myself that even my WORST day now ends with my sitting in my chair, drinking my beer, griping to my wife...and that will always be better than my BEST day as a young Squid.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made May 14 at 2018 9:47 AM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Mon, 14 May 2018 09:47:11 -0400

There are many things that irritate me about the military. The general waste of money, the sometimes “half-ass” method of doing things, the assumption that most military folks are idiots...

But the good far outweighs the bad and I know that when my career comes to an end, I will
miss it dearly. There are so many outstanding folks that I met along the way.

Response by SGT Stephen Jaffe made May 19 at 2018 6:52 PM

SGT Stephen Jaffe — Sat, 19 May 2018 18:52:56 -0400

I was separated in October 1968 after serving almost 4 years in the Army. I experienced some negative reactions from people, but I felt that was their problem. I had become a better person and citizen from having served. Would I do it again, even knowing the outcome of Vietnam ? Better believe I would.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 4:25 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 04:25:06 -0400

For me, it's the personal restrictions that have nothing to do with mission. I came in under DADT. It prevented me from making meaningful connections as a young Airman. I avoid any social gathering or even everyday conversations as much as possible because an innocuous question like "What'd you do last weekend?" could force me to choose between my integrity & a career I have wanted since I was a young kid. The difference it made after my first PCS post-repeal was night & day. I could freely socialize with my shop & get to know them, & they, me. It led to better relationships & a whole lot less stress. It also meant my spouse could be supported the same as any other spouse when I deployed.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made May 27 at 2018 7:39 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Sun, 27 May 2018 19:39:09 -0400

"What is the worst part about having served or presently serving in the United States military?"...IT went by too damn quick! I served twenty-five years in the military and it blew by like being on leave for a week! To those that are currently serving,...don't take it for granted...it'll be over before you know it! I'd do it again.

Response by SSG Rick Miller made May 30 at 2018 1:50 PM

SSG Rick Miller — Wed, 30 May 2018 13:50:10 -0400

Worst part was the Mickey Mouse bulls#@t. Best part was the brotherhood.

Response by CMDCM Kermit Cain made Jun 3 at 2018 5:29 PM

CMDCM Kermit Cain — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 17:29:46 -0400

I did 31+ years and now that I've been out for 20 years I must say (in reflection of the things that still bother me) it's the not only double standards but the double standards where an enlisted member with 12 (or less) years of education is held to a higher standard and accountability than is a commissioned officer (MOST notable senior field and flag grade officers). The USN's motto is "Honor, Courage, Commitment" - not so much held to above the E6 level. The outright dishonesty, lack of accountability, etc. is in the paper each week. I'm not even going to go into the various examples but the Fat Leonard case would be a good read.

Response by PFC Kieffer Elkins made Jun 10 at 2018 7:42 PM

PFC Kieffer Elkins — Sun, 10 Jun 2018 19:42:43 -0400

Well, for me I was never deployed and went overseas or any of that good stuff and I don’t feel like a “true veteran” but then I look back at what I did do and I feel I did my part.

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made Jun 13 at 2018 10:38 PM

Cpl Bernard Bates — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 22:38:41 -0400

When the GI,s come back from Vietnam they were treated like dirt. Some were spit on others were called baby killers. They were encouraged not to wear any military uniforms. It was a different time, the people blamed the military for the war. We were doing what the military told us to do. I was lucky I came home in 66 but we didn't get any welcome home. My wife and family were the only ones happy to see me. It took till 1984 before we got any recognition for our service. Today when someone thanks me for my service " I say thank you" with a grain of salt. I feel it is the politically correct thing to say. I went to the VA once and got treated like nothing. If I waited for their medical help Id be dead. I hope the nation never goes through this again. The USA is still the best country to live in, but sometimes we get our politics screwed up.

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made Jun 13 at 2018 11:32 PM

SSgt Russell Stevens — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 23:32:02 -0400

The worst part was staying deployed too long and developing PTSD as a result. I was put out for that reason and have fought the VA for many years to even get a respectable "Hello" out of anyone there. If my country asked me to do it again, I'd say no.

Response by Sgt Jeff Martin made Jun 16 at 2018 2:13 PM

Sgt Jeff Martin — Sat, 16 Jun 2018 14:13:31 -0400

When I came out in 84, it was such a culture shock. I went from giving orders and following them to asking people to do something and thanking them for doing it. Keep in mind it was what they were hired for to get their pay check. Took me a long time and several jobs to get used to it. Now retired from civilian work, still miss my time in and wish I could go back and do it some more. Even the in country part. No I'm not crazy. I am a patriot. Duty, Honor, Country. I am from the old school. First, Last, Always.

Response by SPC Patricia K. (Williams) Elliott made Jun 17 at 2018 9:24 AM

SPC Patricia K. (Williams) Elliott — Sun, 17 Jun 2018 09:24:15 -0400

For me it was getting out! Even 33 years later, I find it extremely difficult to understand the civilian mindset. I served 11 years and fully enjoyed it! There are times when I wish I was still in!

Response by Lt Col John Culley made Jun 19 at 2018 1:05 AM

Lt Col John Culley — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 01:05:29 -0400

The worst part about being a veteran isTrying to get timely medical care at a Veterans' Administration hospital.

Response by SGM Major Stroupe made Jun 23 at 2018 12:58 PM

SGM Major Stroupe — Sat, 23 Jun 2018 12:58:30 -0400

Adjusting to local government and organizations that are more interested in polishing their own apple rather than looking out for each other. The traits and principles we we taught in the military apply in real life and a surprising number of civilians just don't get it. A warning to all active duty; watch your back and help veterans take care of veterans. No one knows better about taking care of veterans than other veterans. Recommend you seek out various service organizations in your neighborhood and participate. They need your help and your assistance is crucial to taking care of veterans in the future.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2018 1:11 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Jun 2018 13:11:09 -0400

Probably it's serving with all those terrible people, and eating all that terrible food, and serving in those terrible military branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, and getting all that terrible housing and dental and medical coverage free of charge, and receiving that terrible G.I. Bill money for a terrible education, and traveling to all those terrible places, and visiting all those terrible ports of call, and meeting all those terrible people in all those foreign lands...and worst of all...retiring with all those terrible memoires.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 26 at 2018 4:54 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Jun 2018 16:54:35 -0400

Group fitness and the lack of individual accountability it needs to be something that is brought back to the fold especially the way we are promoting soldiers and recruiting them. Individual accountability first then blaiming the NCO when Soldiers continually fail and are not put out to much tolerence because it is too much work to do what you are supposed to do.

Response by SSG Dwight Amey MSA, MSL, BS, AS made Jul 1 at 2018 8:55 AM

SSG Dwight Amey MSA, MSL, BS, AS — Sun, 01 Jul 2018 08:55:25 -0400

my regret with being on active duty is not keeping my weight under control and failing minimum requirements in BNOC by busting tape. Being retired is not what I thought it would be. Mentally, fixing on a career direction and being too old and broke to be a police officer.

Response by TSgt Gary McPherson made Jul 3 at 2018 12:36 AM

TSgt Gary McPherson — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 00:36:21 -0400

Remote tours away from family.Other then that the military took great care of us.Retirement was hard at first as I missed it plus did not have a job to step into.I live very close to a USAF base and go there often.Very proud to be called a Vet

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Jul 3 at 2018 11:01 AM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:01:45 -0400

If you out with a crowd and someone ask you if you ever killed someone in combat? Now I'm not looking to get laid but my 4 combat tours I have killed a few and being Artillery we don't know if we killed women or children in what missions they give us. They just tell us later target destroyed and tend to ball up inside knowing something was attached to that thing you had to do. Then they look at like you are a baby killer or crazy in way. So I tend to keep my mouth shut when I'm out and about.

Response by SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez made Jul 3 at 2018 2:31 PM

SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 14:31:06 -0400

SGT Gunderson,
You know, I look at this picture and one thing comes to mind, how good we/people have it here at home. Us that served, how many times we slept outside, under a tree, or even in a Humvee on the sitting position...shoot, how about in a Bradley Fighting Vehicle? Some complained, some didn't. But I would say that the worse part about serving was the amount of time away from our love ones while supporting our mission. Luckily for me, I have a spouse that understood that. When the time came, I was going to pack my gear and go do my job. Of course she didn't say anything back when I was still in, but now she does. She tells me about the sleepless nights, and it breaks my heart.
You're right, not everything was smelly roses and flowers. There were times that suck. But I also learned to stay discipline, and responsible. Now that I work in the civilian world, I see nothing but a bunch whining people. OMG! If these people had any idea. Hahahahaha!

Response by CMSgt Gary Fichman made Jul 3 at 2018 8:43 PM

CMSgt Gary Fichman — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 20:43:21 -0400

My experience as a civilian manager and supervisor is the everything comes before the job. Totally different from the military. The only thing that came close to the civilian attitude was my assignment to a plum terminal assignment base--all most everyone had one foot out the door.

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Jul 14 at 2018 10:32 AM

SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA — Sat, 14 Jul 2018 10:32:52 -0400

The lack of basic human respect, even when you're squared away completely.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Jul 15 at 2018 11:55 PM

SSG Brian G. — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 23:55:03 -0400

The worst part? When you mention that you serve or are in some conversation and it comes up and now you are looked at by some as if the military was the 'only' thing you could do or the military is for those of lesser mental capacity etc. It is that perception by some rather ignorant, never been in the military folks. It is the hoops that you have to jump through to show that is not the case at all. That in most cases the military member had other options but chose the military as a way of life of just to get ahead due to the various benefits that were offered.

For myself it was the GI Bill and the Army College fund. Those were selling points in addition to all the rest, as College was out of my price range and availability at the time.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 20 at 2018 4:05 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 16:05:56 -0400

SGT Joseph Gunderson: I have two s/c disabilities from the Army; however, I am incredibly blessed with: skills, talents, professionalism that I gained from the Army. I use said skills, talents, and professionalism when I am singing as my career; and, when I am photographing as a career- as well. I also use the professionalism that I gained from the Army: in other aspects of my life. I consider myself very blessed to have served in the United States Army.

Response by SPC Steven Nihipali made Jul 21 at 2018 9:21 PM

SPC Steven Nihipali — Sat, 21 Jul 2018 21:21:11 -0400

Worst part isa watching our fucked up political system fail the US population, consistently. Back and forth, lying Anna making up stupid shit. Disregarding the law and those elected to hold us accountable. If the va was run by veterans, which most of it is, we'd all be dead. Luckily, we have some folks who actually care about their jobs and patients

Response by MSgt Howie Appel made Jul 24 at 2018 3:32 PM

MSgt Howie Appel — Tue, 24 Jul 2018 15:32:37 -0400

This has probably been said one million times or more, but, being a Vietnam Era Veteran, I find that most have little or no respect for veterans.

Response by CW5 Dennis Stewart made Jul 30 at 2018 12:36 PM

CW5 Dennis Stewart — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 12:36:16 -0400

The worst thing? Commanders that where more worried how things appeared rather than what got done. If the power point looked good, then all must be well. So concerned about promotion they forgot duty to the troops Best thing? Some of the best people around to work with.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Jul 30 at 2018 5:34 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 17:34:37 -0400

The worst part of active duty for me was the anxiety caused by the expectation of a midnight phone call that would result in not knowing when you might, if ever, be back. It was accepted, but still an anxious reality. As for civilian life, it was living in a community where there was no understanding of what you had been doing the last 4-30 years, and as a result sort of feeling like a fish out of water.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Jul 31 at 2018 6:52 PM

1SG Ernest Stull — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 18:52:57 -0400

Family was why I served and for my brothers before me.

Response by PO1 J R Foster made Aug 3 at 2018 4:37 AM

PO1 J R Foster — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 04:37:47 -0400

For me, I think it was when I and many others felt like our civilian leaders in the government didn’t have our backs like they should have. I will leave it at that.

Response by PO3 Mike Hayden made Aug 5 at 2018 2:23 PM

PO3 Mike Hayden — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 14:23:43 -0400

The Veterans Administration is, don't get .e wrong I know there are some good people in there working hard. As a whole though it is hurting more than helping

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Aug 5 at 2018 6:45 PM

CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 18:45:57 -0400

When you get a shitty leader you have to deal with for 2+ yrs, PCSing every 2-3 yrs, dealing with CIF personnel, and being shot, blown up or killed.

Response by Sgt R Zan made Aug 8 at 2018 10:28 AM

Sgt R Zan — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 10:28:52 -0400

Watching the country slide through complacency after the Cold War & then onto irrelevance in the wake of globalism, and recognizing that the US is an internally weak country that cannot/ can barely manage its affairs in the absence of an external existential threat.

Response by SGT Tim Tobin made Aug 15 at 2018 7:46 AM

SGT Tim Tobin — Wed, 15 Aug 2018 07:46:13 -0400

The military encourages and demands the best of you. You feel pride on a job well done. Civilians not so much! And with the rampant PC,you can't even tell someone when they suck!!

Response by SSG Sophie Blake made Aug 16 at 2018 10:47 AM

SSG Sophie Blake — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 10:47:05 -0400

I am so very grateful to have served. I am who I am, in no small part, because of that twenty years. That being said, I feel like the rift between my three oldest offspring and I began because of the demands of soldiering; there was simply so much time lost with family and of course, you can't get that back. I work in a nonprofit now, and I am very proud of what I do. However, there's a general lack of "moving with a sense of purpose" that gets infuriating at times. I will forever have "Be, Know, Do" wicked in my brain, and I have a lot of trouble tolerating those who don't. So that's a challenge. I'm fifty years old, and broken in a lot of ways, but sometimes I long for the simplicity (and the constant urgency) that made it easy to commentate on the mission and excel.

Response by SPC Cale Carlson made Aug 16 at 2018 2:31 PM

SPC Cale Carlson — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 14:31:29 -0400

Ungrateful neo Marxist college students

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2018 6:14 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 18:14:45 -0400

TOmany protestors and too much dis respect to the american flag from today kids and you can not do anything

Response by PFC John Parker made Aug 22 at 2018 5:16 PM

PFC John Parker — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 17:16:09 -0400

I think my biggest shock was how unregimented civilian life can be at times. So many people seem to overestimate their importance when they are really just very minor cogs in the machinery of the civilian world.

Response by SSgt Sean Brown made Aug 24 at 2018 1:49 AM

SSgt Sean Brown — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 01:49:27 -0400

Stupid, arrogant officers who never respected Senior NCOs and it always meant someone getting killed or injured out: fuck officers

Response by PO3 Artemis Entreri made Aug 26 at 2018 5:52 PM

PO3 Artemis Entreri — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 17:52:23 -0400

Realizing the people i worked for are all tyrants, trying to take over the world and not save it at all!

Response by TSgt Tommy Amparano made Aug 28 at 2018 11:18 AM

TSgt Tommy Amparano — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 11:18:34 -0400

Not happening lately, but back in the day, I would sometimes trip over all the panties thrown in my direction. Clearly a safety hazard.

Response by SPC Stephen Walsh made Sep 3 at 2018 7:39 PM

SPC Stephen Walsh — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 19:39:58 -0400

In the military for the most part NCO's earned their rank, so you always knew they knew what they were doing. In civvy street you never know how the Boss got to be Bboss

Response by CPT William Jones made Sep 15 at 2018 3:22 PM

CPT William Jones — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 15:22:34 -0400

In most cases, I found negatives are usually personal, I don’t believe there are “mass negatives”. The simple fact is that most should know going into the military that there are going to be long days and bad days...that’s called life and is not exclusive to the military. Instead, the military will likely teach you to deal with them effectively.

Response by Lt Col Vincent Ziccardi made Sep 17 at 2018 6:13 PM

Lt Col Vincent Ziccardi — Mon, 17 Sep 2018 18:13:40 -0400

As so ably stated by Chief Parrish earlier, the hardest part of transitioning from a part of the military organization back to the civilian world, can be explained by the difference in the two word groups - "military organization" and "civilian world". Though both have internal problems and some warts, the former is made up in part by people who are mission oriented (almost regardless of cost), team oriented (concern for the people to your immediate left and right), nearly complete transparency (personal and unit) and accountability for results. My experience with big business (defense contractors) exhibited almost the exact opposite "values": pay, power, profit. After spending nearly all of my productive years in uniform with a clear code of conduct and expectations, I felt like an orphan in a very strange orphanage.

Response by SSG Melvin Nulph made Sep 22 at 2018 7:51 PM

SSG Melvin Nulph — Sat, 22 Sep 2018 19:51:19 -0400

Yes, the worst part of being a service member was becoming a veteran. Not just a veteran but one that’s considered 100% disabled. Now the worst part of being what I am today is no longer being what became my way of life for 20 years, a service member.
None has to do with power or position, (I was just an E-6) but the brotherhood, and other bonds we made with members (all ranks) that I served with. Knowing you have their back as well as they have yours. We’ll get this done and everyone will do their part, it will be done as a team. May bitch about it later over a beer, with the NCO’s, Lol or to hear what the subordinates ideas were to make things better if we have to do it again when I asked them (they all got their turn) some came up with some great ideas once in a while as well as learned why it wouldn’t work.

Response by PO3 James Bobiney made Sep 25 at 2018 8:37 AM

PO3 James Bobiney — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 08:37:15 -0400

It some places as a Veteran, such as my little closed minded town. Very few people give us the respect we are due. I'm not talking about discounts either. I rarely even ask for a discount. But people take the freedoms we have in this country for granted. Now when I go to Cheyenne, a Military town, I am thanked and given discounts every day many times. I give them thanks in return. But it is the difference between cultures in my opinion.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Sep 27 at 2018 1:46 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Thu, 27 Sep 2018 13:46:09 -0400

No matter where I am or what I am doing it is all a challenge, life provides obstacles, too which military life gave me the tools that help to overcome, about the only difference is no deployments and that is what affected me the most; the adrenaline rush.

Response by FN Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2018 11:28 PM

FN Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Oct 2018 23:28:28 -0400

-What I liked about the military?
Structure, steady pay check, travel and my friends.
-What I disliked?
Too much favoritism, people take credit for your work and get all the awards, toxic leadership that cared more about rank then their own troops, everything went PC (politically correct), more of a dog & pony show with less effort on training, command preaches standards but most don’t meet them, etc.-Too many to name.
Whenever you get out of the military you have to rediscover your purpose and self worth all over again. For me I focused on my physical (fitness/nutrition), spiritual (meditation) and mental (knowledge) health.
Currently using my G.I Bill for Welding Technology at Sierra College.
Life is progressing day by day.
Just have to take it one battle at a time until you win the war.

Response by SP5 Jeannie Carle made Oct 11 at 2018 1:37 AM

SP5 Jeannie Carle — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 01:37:50 -0400

My worst part about having served was getting out. I should have found a way around that, somehow.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Oct 15 at 2018 11:52 AM

PVT Mark Zehner — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 11:52:29 -0400

You get to a point where you just don't care about the negatives anymore! I'm just glad I made it this far!

Response by SSgt Kerry Dillon made Oct 21 at 2018 12:32 PM

SSgt Kerry Dillon — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 12:32:06 -0400

Mine was trying to acclimatise to being around and working with civilians. All their thinking was the I,I,I me,me,me attitude. I was a foreman and my boss would get on me for getting my hands dirty working with my crew. I told him ya gotta lead by example. To this day I still have to learn to tolerate them. I got out of the Corps in 94 after 16yrs. I am now retired.

Response by SPC David Dougherty made Oct 26 at 2018 9:44 PM

SPC David Dougherty — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 21:44:53 -0400

Nothing. Knowing what if you never served!

Response by A1C Charles Hagen made Nov 11 at 2018 4:59 PM

A1C Charles Hagen — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 16:59:51 -0500

Remembering the details of what happened and not being able to control pain is without a doubt the worst part. Having others who know what I mean and who share this...that helps. In the service there was order, in civilian world there is not.

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Nov 15 at 2018 11:50 PM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Thu, 15 Nov 2018 23:50:05 -0500

CMSgt Mark Parrish summed it up well. The worst part was not being there for my family at times, the second worst part is not being in the service any more.

Response by SSG Mark Metzler made Nov 18 at 2018 11:03 PM

SSG Mark Metzler — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 23:03:05 -0500

The worse part, attempting to adjust to civilian life, after 20 straight, consecutive 20 years, even with a college education. I am just to military. SSG Mark Metzler, USA-Retired, Military Police Corps.

Response by PO3 Brad Phillips made Nov 21 at 2018 8:54 AM

PO3 Brad Phillips — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 08:54:11 -0500

Being damn good at your job in the service. Just not to be given a chance to do it in the civilian world. Unless you go to school that will teach you less than the schools you attended in the military. I feel many in management over look us veterans based on job security. They know we are structured in a way that management tends to come easy to us. That makes us a threat to their jobs. Even though that's not our intention. We just want to find our place.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Dec 10 at 2018 8:16 AM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Mon, 10 Dec 2018 08:16:27 -0500

Honestly the worst thing about being in the service for me was imposed stupidity. I completely understand necessary stupidity, but when there is a better way to do things and "the boss" refuses to do things that way simply because it's not his/her idea... yeah, that sucks.
But... then again, the same is true in the civilian world, you just have more of an ability to tell "the boss" what you really think (maybe at the cost of your job, but not at the cost of UCMJ / "the law").

Response by PO1 Aaron Baltosser made Jan 14 at 2019 9:29 AM

PO1 Aaron Baltosser — Mon, 14 Jan 2019 09:29:42 -0500

1: Loss of fellowship after service
2: Disconnect between injuries during service and disability compensation after. Only 50% or higher rate concurrent receipt.

Response by SGT George Duncan made Jan 20 at 2019 6:27 PM

SGT George Duncan — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 18:27:10 -0500

listening to people who have no idea what war is all about

Response by SFC Charles Temm made Feb 2 at 2019 5:24 PM

SFC Charles Temm — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 17:24:03 -0500

I think CSM Parish (below) says it quite well. Trying to add anything would be a waste of time.

Response by CPL Timothy Coffey made Feb 4 at 2019 8:37 PM

CPL Timothy Coffey — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 20:37:34 -0500

Being contaminated was worse part of my service and being a Veteran, i would suggest everyone is really careful with all chemicals they are asked to work with. Make sure the chemicals are safe for you and the environment. Trust nobody read the MSDS for yourself. try to make sure that Supply only orders safe chemicals. Watch what your cleaning weapons and motor pool equipment with. In war situation you must do what you must, but safety in peacetime is best practice to keep the military strong for years to come.

Response by COL Ed Gibson made Feb 6 at 2019 12:40 PM

COL Ed Gibson — Wed, 06 Feb 2019 12:40:21 -0500

The honor of serving our country is indeed some thing to be proud of and at the same time being giving numerous opportunities to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve with is "Awesome" . Thoughts of a very old soldier.(93 years young)

Response by SGT Daniel Myers made Feb 8 at 2019 3:49 PM

SGT Daniel Myers — Fri, 08 Feb 2019 15:49:15 -0500

There were/are many worsts for me. Coming home was a real thrill! All the protestors at the airport, the people spitting on me and my uniform and me having to bust some heads to let them know that was unacceptable behavior! (Was that politically correct or what! Lol) My best friend wouldn't come get me from the airport because he was afraid someone might see him and after all, they were calling us baby killers. End of friendship. I saw the world in black & white, right & wrong, no shades of gray. After 3 weeks my parents came to me in the middle of the night and asked me to pack all my things and leave as they were afraid of me especially after all the years of abuse they put me through they were afraid I may now kill them. I snickered and left quitely. I floated from job to job wondering how some of my bosses got their jobs in the first place let alone tie their own shoes in the morning. Got married, got divorced. Had anger control issues but never abused anyone. Got married again and was in a wreck and got my noggin rattled. This time was different. I started having flashbacks, very violent ones. This was over 20 years since I'd gotten out it was only then that I'd been diagnosed with full blown PTSD. It's well controlled now. I still get irked when non-vets thank me for my service. It's the way they say it I think that pisses me off. It sounds so trite, phoney and rehearsed. I want to look them in the eye and say: "If you wanted to thank me, where the hell were you 45 years ago when I was at the airport getting spit on?" Instead I politely smile and hold back my puke, civy's - I just can't stomach them.

Response by SSgt Liam Babington made Feb 9 at 2019 10:32 PM

SSgt Liam Babington — Sat, 09 Feb 2019 22:32:03 -0500

Dealing with stupidity unrelated to the mission at hand

Response by SSG Adrian Walker made Feb 17 at 2019 7:29 PM

SSG Adrian Walker — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 19:29:17 -0500

The only bad thing for me was the 5 years I was gone from my own family due to multiple deployments, I am proud to have served for over 10 years and would have done 30 except for losing both of my legs,, i have kept the ( if you're not here 15 minutes early you are already late) mantra.

Response by COL Gary Gresh made Jul 19 at 2019 6:42 PM

COL Gary Gresh — Fri, 19 Jul 2019 18:42:44 -0400

The worst thing for me was joining the great civilian workforce where no one is in charge and everyone wants everything free and does not want to pay for with service to country. I constantly get the line”
“ you get health care free, don’t you think everyone should? I reply spend 20-30 years in a foxhole if you want my benefits. Civilians have no fricking idea what we have done for the benefits we EARNED.

Response by SP5 Dennis Loberger made Oct 23 at 2019 10:32 PM

SP5 Dennis Loberger — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 22:32:10 -0400

I was in for 2 years as a draftee in 1972. Of that 2 years, I was home about 30 days having been deployed overseas for 19 months. I had a wife and 2 young boys, one was 2 years old and one 3 months old at the beginning. Separation from my family at that time was the worst part and convinced me that that was not the life for me. Had I been single, well, that may have been different

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2020 5:04 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Jan 2020 05:04:15 -0500

Family asking what is happening about shit I have do or do not know anything about. I had my mom ask me shit about what other branches are gonna do with Iran. As if I would fucking know

Response by Cpl Sean Fitzgerald made May 26 at 2020 8:44 AM

Cpl Sean Fitzgerald — Tue, 26 May 2020 08:44:08 -0400

The assumptions that are made: about beliefs or politics, anything that attempts to corral us all as being like-minded on all things.
In my experience, a lot of civilians want us to believe a certain way about topics they are interested in and if we don’t, somehow we are the disappointment, or a “disgrace to the Uniform”.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Jan 30 at 2021 8:47 AM

SFC Melvin Brandenburg — Sat, 30 Jan 2021 08:47:37 -0500

Sacrificing my time I should have spent as a father

Response by SMSgt David A Asbury made Feb 28 at 2021 2:20 PM

SMSgt David A Asbury — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 14:20:21 -0500

Knowing someone is making a wrong decision you disagree with, a double standard.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 28 at 2021 6:16 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 18:16:31 -0500

Stupid civilians questioning my service. The fvcking idiots think they are qualified to make that judgement.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Feb 28 at 2021 7:24 PM

1SG Ernest Stull — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 19:24:16 -0500

The worst part for me was that I had to many years in and had to retire. The Army was my hobby. I loved every minute of it the good and not so good times. I was all in.

Response by SSG Greg Miech made Mar 1 at 2021 12:18 AM

SSG Greg Miech — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 00:18:37 -0500

Listening to so many stupid, lazy, incompetent employees with no experience of life, travel (Cancun does not count). Too much of the Facebook type crowd. Headphones were a savior.

Response by Maj Maria Avellaneda made Mar 10 at 2021 10:51 PM

Maj Maria Avellaneda — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 22:51:30 -0500

Agree -
100%

Response by SrA Steven Houde made Mar 12 at 2021 8:57 AM

SrA Steven Houde — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 08:57:32 -0500

I was an airman assigned to a duty station 11 miles from my parents' home (Hanscom AFB, MA) in 1979. I had volunteered for assignment to bases on Okinawa, the Philippines, or any other Far Eastern duty station, but the Air Force, in its ultimate wisdom decided I'd be too much of a danger to U.S. prestige outside the country, and that I should be assigned to my own home state where I could do little as damage as possible. (Go figure!

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Apr 12 at 2021 12:09 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 00:09:10 -0400

There were times that I felt that I was an outsider looking in. For example, due to the pandemic, the gyms on Fort Hood were either closed, or the ones that are open were only for active duty.

Response by Cpl Archie H. made Apr 12 at 2021 7:43 AM

Cpl Archie H. — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 07:43:04 -0400

After 50 plus years of reflection it is hearing politicians and government employees tell you they care about the health and welfare of our military and veterans. Then ignore them with policies that insult your intelligence with bull sh(“t going nowhere solutions.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2021 5:53 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 17:53:14 -0400

Ok, so I was in the Navy and I have been out exatcly one year today. My military enlistment was not the typical one you read and see about going into combat, guns, tattoos and what not. I was attached to a F18 squadron and have a total of 22 months of sea time. Although I didn't have the "typical" career there are two things that I have noticed that have been hard on me and my family.
1. The fact that you are taught that you are apart of the greatest fighting force in the world and there is no better training available out in The civilian world and companies with hire you on the spot. Once you are out with all this "training" that you have acquired, unless you have se sort of supervisor/leadership role it is very hard to find a job.
More on that I people want to DM me.
2. Is also the fact that (in my case) the anger and bad habits you pick up when your in. Like I said I didn't have the stress from being boots on ground but being a final checker on a flight deck of a carrier for 12 hours a day is no walk In the park either. Basically what I'm getting at is having to adjust to a less stressful situation but your reaction to stress has not changed and you blow up over something small, that's what no one talks about.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Apr 16 at 2021 3:08 AM

PV2 Glen Lewis — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 03:08:03 -0400

I didn't and still don't find the structure in civilian life that I so enjoyed in the Army. It's what I valued the most about the service.

Response by PO3 Aileen Dodge made Apr 16 at 2021 6:31 PM

PO3 Aileen Dodge — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 18:31:47 -0400

The worst part of being a Veteran no matter if you are a war time Veteran or peace time Veteran is having to deal with the Veterans Administration! And I mean any department of that organization.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Apr 16 at 2021 7:54 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 19:54:17 -0400

Having to face the jealousy of those who are not

Response by Sgt Dan Baughman made Apr 16 at 2021 9:54 PM

Sgt Dan Baughman — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 21:54:52 -0400

There is no worst part. I am a Nam vet 0311. We were shamed and humiliated for our service. To this day i still do not wear much stuff saying im a Marine. Im proud of what i did.10yrs in the Corps. So be proud but be humble.

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Apr 16 at 2021 11:21 PM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 23:21:27 -0400

Military--hurry up an wait; away from the family [BOREDOM]; pride in job accomplishment [ACHIEVEMENT]
Vet--alcoholism, [BOREDOM]
Vet with a non-government job--sense of accomplishment, ability to made recommendations for improving the process [in some instances] and knowing the job you are doing is the job you were hired to do [and not standing at the gate looking at ID cards or cutting the grass]. [PRIDE and RESPONSIBILITY]

Response by 1SG Brian Adams made Jun 7 at 2021 7:06 PM

1SG Brian Adams — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 19:06:33 -0400

Nothing

Response by CPT Angela Wilder made Jun 13 at 2021 2:39 PM

CPT Angela Wilder — Sun, 13 Jun 2021 14:39:01 -0400

I miss serving my country. I no longer work for the Federal government but I meet my need to serve by donating my time and sometimes money to organizations whose cause serves the community.

I initially missed the self-healing paycheck and the benefits. When I worked for the city, the pay was lower but the my job satisfaction was high. I was serving the community as a Public Librarian. The benefits were no comparison to the ones I received in the military. This improved when I got a Civilian Federal job. Suddenly, my military time (I did not retire) counted for something through the Military Buy-Back program. The TSP, with matching contributions was available to me. Finally, it looked like I would be able to retire after 20 years of service anyway - which would not be the full 20 because with the Military Buy Back Program my years in the United States Army would count toward that retirement.

I've recently learned that Veterans can use the commissary. I know that this is only relevant if you live near a Military Installation. But it is still nice.

I missed the uniform at first because I had to learn how to dress in a civilian environment. But once I understood its just different variations of a neutral colored suit (skirt or pants), I was fine. Depending upon on where you work, you either wear the whole suit or just the suit without the jacket and maybe some more comfortable shoes. You can wear a pull-over sweater or a twinset instead of the button down shirt or blouse. There is more you can do but you have to be careful. You may be able to get away with t-shirts and jeans at work but it could hurt you professionally. Some work environments only require chinos and a polo shirt. Follow the dress code, if they have one. Hopefully, someone else with experience leaving the uniform and dressing for a civilian office can add.

I missed the PT too. But I ran track in high school before enlisting so I'm just weird like that. It was difficult for me because a knee injury kept me from running. So I learned to walk for my exercise. When I had a gym membership (when I could afford it), I would use the low-impact cardio machines. I particularly liked the bike and the elliptical machine.

I've been out now longer than I've been in so I've adjusted to (or can't remember) everything else I missed about the military.

Response by CPT Angela Wilder made Jun 13 at 2021 3:55 PM

CPT Angela Wilder — Sun, 13 Jun 2021 15:55:00 -0400

I read at least two posters that said they get upset or angry when they are told "Thank you for your service." by civilians. What should people say to you? I am not a Vietnam Vet but my father was. He would simply say 'Thank you' in response. But he always said he could not relate to them and felt like an outsider around them.

Based on my experience with civilians, some can be unappreciative or even jealous of your service. I also know that office politics can 'trigger" PTSD-like symptoms in a Veteran too.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Jun 23 at 2021 8:32 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 08:32:46 -0400

Being away from loved ones for very long periods of time

Response by SFC Sfc Darwin Maring, USA Ret made Jun 24 at 2021 7:49 PM

SFC Sfc Darwin Maring, USA Ret — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 19:49:00 -0400

Me, Retired, Got hired by Ross Perot at Electronic Data Systems and changed uniform to suit and tie with clothing and dress rules, hair fules, just like the Army and went and computerized the Army on project VIABLE.

Response by PFC Michelle Gauthier made Jun 26 at 2021 10:38 AM

PFC Michelle Gauthier — Sat, 26 Jun 2021 10:38:00 -0400

The worst part for many enlisted women who are there for their comrades, is being raped. Their lives are never the same afterwards. What if it would have been your wife or sister that was sexually molested?

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Jul 4 at 2021 12:32 PM

1SG James Kelly — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 12:32:09 -0400

Civilians.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2021 10:48 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Jul 2021 22:48:49 -0400

When I got off active duty in 1977, I felt my 4 year enlistment put me 4 years behind my peers. I have since gone in to get commissioned and served a few more years. It was worth it.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 6 at 2021 1:01 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:01:54 -0400

Stupid f@cking idiots who think they know more about me than I do as they say I never served. Another stupid f@cking idiot made light of PTSD. He deserves a baseball bat.

Response by TSgt Robert E. Bonney made Jul 6 at 2021 1:20 PM

TSgt Robert E. Bonney — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:20:21 -0400

I, like most, am very proud of my time in service; it was my honor and privilege. Of eight (8) active duty bases, I enjoyed most of my assignments and made the best of some others. Now only three (3) of those bases are still active, Congress has closed the other five (5). Whether or not having served or currently serving is the worst part depends a lot on a persons attitude and perspective of the world. If you had or have a bad experience while serving then your attitude will be negative unless you take it as a positive learning experience and move on with life. For me there is no worst part of having served, but I do think that the military does not get the recognition it deserves. Some states and some civilian businesses display signs of 'support' for the military but it is not real support, it is just 'eye candy' for them. Try to get a military discount from these places, see what happens. I have tried and was told 'we don't do that anymore'.

Response by CPL Sheila Lewis made Jul 6 at 2021 2:34 PM

CPL Sheila Lewis — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 14:34:22 -0400

dealing with civilians.

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Jul 6 at 2021 2:49 PM

SSG Bill McCoy — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 14:49:03 -0400

Literally, as for being a Veteran, the ONLY "worse" part was having civilian bosses (two in particular) who hated Veterans, or at the least as another boss said to a fellow Veteran, "John went to college; you went to the military. That's YOUR FAULT."
I have a VERY low flashpoint when it comes to most civilians.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jul 6 at 2021 8:00 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 20:00:15 -0400

Constant questions

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2021 8:01 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 20:01:19 -0400

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Jul 6 at 2021 8:29 PM

Cpl Vic Burk — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 20:29:46 -0400

When you leave the military you have to grow a whole new circle of friends and comrades. Somehow that didn't work out so well with me when I left and I never fully got to the point with more than a couple guys that I felt comfortable with like I did with my circle in the Marines. The bond just wasn't there.

Response by SrA Michele Burgman made Jul 22 at 2021 7:44 AM

SrA Michele Burgman — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 07:44:50 -0400

Chain of command really makes a difference. I had two really good commanders and two that didn't give a crap about anyone under their command. I would likely have retired if I knew I could have good quality commanders and supervisors throughout my military career. Enlisted pay sucks, especially since you're basically on call 24x7. The quality of VA care sucks. All-in-all, I had a positive experience and it opened the door to a solid career outside of the military.

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Aug 5 at 2021 4:55 PM

SSG Bill McCoy — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 16:55:37 -0400

I've pondered this question for quite awhile and while we all have those militray days that totally sucked, overall my days in the military were awesome. Okay, Vietnam was the one big exception. Other than that, the worst part of the military was having to return to civilian life and workforce because civiliians have a, "Life OWES me," attitude.

Response by SGT Jodi WittBailey made Aug 24 at 2021 8:50 PM

SGT Jodi WittBailey — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 20:50:54 -0400

The daily pain.

Response by MSgt Gary Young made Aug 26 at 2021 8:17 PM

MSgt Gary Young — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 20:17:39 -0400

I served in Thailand 72-73 and still can not get my benefits because of a SOB on the board had turned me down 8 or more times. He even said my work wasn't 12' from the perimeter when they sprayed AO. My Colonel wrote me a buddy letter telling this so-called attorney on the board that he sent me there because that was my duty station. 5-way bypass and 5 stents later still can't get my benefits. As of August of this year also had to have defibrillator put in my chest.

Response by SPC Arthur Lowder made Sep 3 at 2021 6:03 PM

SPC Arthur Lowder — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 18:03:57 -0400

just being over look when asking for help from the VA, the fight for your RIGHTS.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Sep 4 at 2021 12:52 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 12:52:04 -0400

I am proud, it who I am. American society has not had an enemy destroying its cities since the Civil War. They have not needed to depend on us

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2021 4:59 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 16:59:25 -0400

The relationships you form while you're in the military don't translate as well to the civilian world. It's the nature of the beast: you can't find that level of friendship in the civilian world.

Additionally, in the military no one lets personal convictions/beliefs/background/etc. keep them from working with someone else, as you're thrust into situations where you have to work with your squad/team to accomplish a common goal. I haven't seen that as much in the civilian side, at least, not that I can recall. No one really cares where you're from, or what you believe about [topic/subject], as long as your mission is accomplished. It's amazing, in the civilian world, how quickly a project can be derailed due to a difference in one's personal beliefs/convictions.

Response by SP5 Leo Fitz made Sep 8 at 2021 7:23 PM

SP5 Leo Fitz — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:23:28 -0400

Answering why you never deployed. I was a gold star army vet during nam times. Faught the war in Georgia .

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2021 7:40 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:40:58 -0400

As a Veteran, seeing the way people “support Our Troops”. Supporting is not a sticker on the back of a car that was probably made in China or thank someone in uniform. it is a physical giving of assistance like giving to Armed Forces Emergency Relief funds or donating items to be sent to overseas personnel.

Response by PV2 Chase Best made Sep 8 at 2021 8:01 PM

PV2 Chase Best — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 20:01:35 -0400

being homeless

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 8 at 2021 10:06 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 22:06:07 -0400

I think I alluded to hearing stolen valor. There is a dickhead poster who claims I am subject to stolen valor. Just amazing.

Response by SPC(P) Donald B. made Sep 9 at 2021 2:37 AM

SPC(P) Donald B. — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 02:37:42 -0400

As a Vet - Not being able to go to sleep when everyone else in my house does... but, its good for the company I'm growing :shrug:
As a Grunt - Running... too much fnkicg runnnning!!!

Response by CPL Adam Schoenwald made Sep 9 at 2021 2:45 PM

CPL Adam Schoenwald — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 14:45:55 -0400

The hardest part of serving was deployment, but also the most rewarding because you find out who your real buddies are. The 2nd part was having to end what I wanted as a full life long career due to injury, finally the 3 toughest thing is being a Combat Vet surrounded by civilians asking stupid ass questions like "did you get to kill anyone". I think Regan left a note to Bush as he left office and it said something along the lines of "It's hard to soar like an eagle when you fly with a bunch of turkeys" I miss the family I had on post, it didn't matter who you were, if you were a soldier, you were family, even if you were a piece of crap, the unit took care of its own. The closest thing I have found to a family like that is my Church small group and as great as it is, still pales in comparison.

Response by SrA Gina Hotard made Sep 21 at 2021 7:00 PM

SrA Gina Hotard — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 19:00:55 -0400

Not while serving, but as a female vet being asked where my sponsor is. Asked for my husband’s social not mine. People forget about the women who serve proudly and honorably

Response by CPL Joshua Adkins made Oct 28 at 2021 8:53 AM

CPL Joshua Adkins — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 08:53:33 -0400

Having my son taken out of custody because I served in the military and being told that my military service makes me an ineffective parent when I believe the opposite to be true.

Response by Sgt Fredric Garms made Oct 28 at 2021 10:56 AM

Sgt Fredric Garms — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 10:56:54 -0400

Watching our politicians getting us into WAR’S that we have no intention of WINNING! Watching our servicemen coming back home with no arms or legs and other horrific injuries including PSTD.! We should not allow these people to stay bin office. You would have thought we learned enough after the Vietnam War, but noooo! Afghanistan and the War with Iraq were total disasters in my opinion. We should have never gone in the first place. Just ask some of families of these dead and wounded veterans. Im sure that many would agree with that.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2021 11:58 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 11:58:37 -0400

The worst part about presently serving is being selfish and not being there especially in times when your family needs you most.

Response by 1SG Jack Crutcher made Oct 28 at 2021 5:29 PM

1SG Jack Crutcher — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 17:29:19 -0400

For me the worse part about being a veteran is getting older

Response by SFC Charles E Hightower made Oct 28 at 2021 7:38 PM

SFC Charles E Hightower — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 19:38:34 -0400

I was E-6 for 12 years with 2ea Meritorious Service Medal ( MSM) and an QWP before being promotion E-7, I had 19 years at the time of Promotion. Centralized promotions are conducted Army-wide at Army Personnel Headquarters. The unit or battalion has little to do with the promotion process in these cases. There are no minimum time-in-grade requirements for promotion to E-7, E-8, or E-9, but soldiers must meet the following minimum time-in-service requirements to be eligible for promotion: It full of shit!!

Response by PO2 S.J. Carroll made Oct 28 at 2021 11:15 PM

PO2 S.J. Carroll — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 23:15:09 -0400

While there were unpleasant glitches while I was AcDu, I find there is NOTHING, NOTHING, NOOTHING bad about being a veteran. Then again, the people of West Virginia are proud of their veterans

Response by CPO Michael McKee made Oct 29 at 2021 12:41 AM

CPO Michael McKee — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 00:41:11 -0400

Being away from wife and family for long periods of time. When I did it we only were able to communicate via letters, and everyone knows that they don't arrive in the order that they were sent, so it's ruff when you get one that says everything's OK now, without a statement as to what was the problem. We started numbering our letters to fix that problem.

Response by CPO Arthur Weinberger made Oct 29 at 2021 9:12 AM

CPO Arthur Weinberger — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 09:12:41 -0400

Thank you SGT Gunderson. During my career in the Navy I was privy to having most personnel perform their duties very well. After retiring this was not the case. Perhaps the efficacy was 60%. This believe it or not was often true of retired or former military personnel as well. We need to hold humans accountable and not accept marginal performances!

Response by SGM Omer Dalton made Oct 29 at 2021 10:15 AM

SGM Omer Dalton — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 10:15:03 -0400

From a 22 year Army vet, looking back and wishing i had done some things differently. After being retired almost 30 years i still thing about it. Can’t complain too much, the Army was very good to me. Gave me a job and a good education. Still Hindsight is a bitch.

Response by Capt Bruce Kramer made Oct 29 at 2021 11:25 AM

Capt Bruce Kramer — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 11:25:15 -0400

My wife and I are blessed to still receive the majority of our health care from Wright-Patterson AFB, although dental is currently active duty only, and some "specialty" departments (many referrals in those areas going to off base civilian providers). We say THANK YOU to the many who have and are continuing to provide us medical care on Wright-Patterson AFB since I PCS'd here to fly for the 4950th Test Wing in 1985. Your care is most appreciated!

If I have to answer "What is the worst part?" I'd go back to my SAC days on Alert... and some of the ORI exercises -- being told one time by the CC that when we get off Alert -- even though an ORI was expected -- "Go do whatever you have planned." OK, so I get home (on base) with the rest of the week and weekend before having to report back to the squadron and load up my family to drive about a hour away to pickup a part for my car. We spend a little more time shopping before driving back to the base... ONLY to find notes on our door, "WHERE ARE YOU?! GET YOUR A** over to the squadron ASAP!" And almost before we get in the door, a crew member shows up screaming, the CC is pretty PISSED!.... I jump into my flight suit, grab my helmet and flight bags and... AFTER everything is over, I'm handed a letter of reprimand! Fast forward a week, the CC calls me into his office...... and actually apologizes for his behavior and tears up the letter of reprimand! He said he knew I was "new" and took his ""Go do whatever you have planned" (after getting off Alert) literally... and indeed it was to be that way even though he had "hoped" we'd all sit at home waiting to be called when the ORI kicked off. My plane was the only one keeping them from being 100% in record time... but we did achieve 100% -- just not in the time it could have been IF i had stayed home. The CC admitted the ORI is not to be "gamed" even though we all know better... LOL

Becoming disabled was a real bummer -- especially since I was just transferred into Systems Command from SAC, but THE real "bummer" was just a couple of years ago in medical retirement when I turned 65!

Tricare Prime worked great for years -- especially since our premiums were "frozen" due to my disability; however once I turned 65 I has hit with an outrageous Medicare "tax" - premium!!! Fortunately, I 'm usually not a frequent flyer medically -- maybe being seen at the base a couple of times a year for a routine "physical" -- so too suddenly be FORCED to pay into Medicare to be able to KEEP Tricare for Life was an insult to our service IMO!

I contacted Sen Brown (Ohio) about the ridiculous Medicare TAX / premium, but he had no informed / legitimate response to the Medicare practice -- simply sent paperwork to apply for "assistance"! Even though our income might qualify us, I was simply asking Sen Brown WHY not allow us -- military retires AND especially disabled vets -- to remain in the Tricare program (with our current premiums) that was working just fine -- NOT be FORCED to come up with a Medicare "premium" 3.77 times the cost of Tricare Prime!!!

IF you're retired, but not yet 65, prepare your budget for it! (We went from $114.99/3 months for Tricare Prime up to $433.80/3 months for Medicare! AND of course the TAX continues to climb -- now $148.50/month -- $445.50/3 months -- with no allowance for disability NOR all that I paid into Medicare/Social Security over the years, PLUS now with all the insane SPENDING in Washington, will I even be able to get my PAID FOR social security when I turn 70?! IMO ANY government "social welfare" program is the WORST INVESTMENT in the world -- should have never been started initially and is only getting WORSE!

Response by SPC William Coyne made Oct 29 at 2021 11:28 AM

SPC William Coyne — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 11:28:17 -0400

"What is the worst part about having served in the United States military?" is a question like "What is the worst part of having attended a banquet?" Given that the defense of our nation necessarily comes with dark shadows, the worst part was not only working alongside fellow servicemen and servicewomen who could manipulate "the system" to their personal gain, but that the results of their private pursuits seemed to contribute more to the mission than anything I offered. It was a distressing paradox at the time that seriously challenged my morale. I gradually learned to accept my small and seemingly insignificant participation, and to take some little pride in it. But even to this day, visiting a VA facility is an intensely emotional experience, for I know I walk on hallowed ground.

Response by PO3 James Bobiney made Oct 29 at 2021 2:58 PM

PO3 James Bobiney — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 14:58:26 -0400

Realizing that in my small town in Montana nobody gives a shit about you or your service and just takes our freedoms for granted.

Response by PO2 David Harlow made Oct 29 at 2021 5:20 PM

PO2 David Harlow — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 17:20:42 -0400

I know I'm saying the same many of you are, but I also saw a whole different side of things when I left the navy versus the civilian sector. I worked in retail for several years (Value Village, think Goodwill, but red). Most of the people I worked with would do their jobs fine, but a lot of the management would push push push but not help to get the team's numbers up for the day. Then the next morning they'd get yelled at for not making numbers. How do you expect your people to do their jobs and in turn make you look good to the executives if you don't come down to our level and realize what's going on and help out to make the difference? On the ship, even some of my chiefs (E-7s) would be down in the machinery space tearing apart the turbine generators with the rest of us. So much nicer when they know what's going on because they were doing it too.

Response by Sgt Terry Rizzuti made Oct 29 at 2021 5:38 PM

Sgt Terry Rizzuti — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 17:38:02 -0400

I wrote a book about my military service in Vietnam called The Second Tour: Soul Injury. It took nearly 300 pages to put the worst part in perspective, so I can’t do it here. Being a Vietnam Veteran from 1970 until 2011 pretty much sucked. Not only did our peers turn against us, but so too did the veterans that came before us. But veteranship has done a complete turnaround since then and is now fantastic. All that said, I wouldn’t trade my military service for anything.

Response by PFC Guy Gantner made Oct 29 at 2021 7:59 PM

PFC Guy Gantner — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 19:59:32 -0400

Sometimes dealing with the VA hosp.

Response by MSgt Mike P. made Oct 29 at 2021 9:23 PM

MSgt Mike P. — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 21:23:30 -0400

Having retired 30+ years ago, I am depressed at where our country stands, militarily, borders, financial actions, lack of planning and operational actions in Afghanistan, etc. I feel for our current troops and the type of "leadership " they have now. CRT Training, threatening discharge/repayment of costs of Training, etc.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2021 9:59 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 21:59:32 -0400

The worst is being a service member and veteran
The best part is being a service member and a veteran.
Love it and hate it

Response by PO1 Kate Schoeneich made Oct 31 at 2021 4:00 PM

PO1 Kate Schoeneich — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 16:00:17 -0400

Being able to fit in with those that didn't serve. Lack of respect from some on the workplace. They could care less for what you did.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2021 12:05 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 12:05:32 -0500

Asking for help in the wrong way....

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Nov 25 at 2021 6:05 PM

SGT Erick Holmes — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 18:05:06 -0500

Being out of the ARMY now for 10 years and working on a NAVY Submarine base it's difficult to sit back and watch the laziness, the disrespect from lower enlisted to higher up, the not taking responsibility for your actions and anything else that is wrong with the lower enlisted. By all means I was not the perfect Soldier. But with time and age and different situations you grow up quickly. Todays military (no offense for those that are still in) in any branch has become soft or for better words different. From allowing cell phones and email and internet to be used in either basic training or boot camp to getting 96hours time off because you went 96 days without any alcohol or drug related incidents. To me your not suppose to be drinking underage or doing illegal drugs to begin with. To be quiet and not saying anything as a former squad leader is the toughest part. For me that is

Response by SSG Raul Alaniz made Nov 25 at 2021 10:27 PM

SSG Raul Alaniz — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 22:27:26 -0500

After I Retired from the U.S Army, would have liked to have done another 10 yrs. I tried to get use to the civilian puke's life, not trying to be funny, there's no structure, so I marched on for another 16 years. (I'm in the Medical Field). Retired from work period, but my heart is STILL ARMY, and I live very close to a Post, where I Always feel at Home. Such as Life.

Response by SGT Steven Wade made Nov 25 at 2021 11:05 PM

SGT Steven Wade — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 23:05:49 -0500

Doing service for the worst people this country has so offer.

Response by MCPON Art Freed made Dec 28 at 2021 12:29 PM

MCPON Art Freed — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 12:29:49 -0500

Being there for our country is a great honor. I loved it.

Response by SrA Gina Hotard made Dec 31 at 2021 11:53 AM

SrA Gina Hotard — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 11:53:55 -0500

I value the time I was on active duty and miss it greatly. Wasn’t always perfect, yet even on the worst days I felt it was a “calling “ for me. Worse thing I have to deal with as a civilian is people asking where my sponsor or husband is for his social, and being called sir when on phone making appointments or calling the 800 number. People forget women serve also, and in the combat arena.

Response by LTC Philip Marlowe made Jan 4 at 2022 4:51 PM

LTC Philip Marlowe — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 16:51:58 -0500

You know, I don't like 'negative'. Finding the NEGATIVE in literally anything is too easy. That's why when you ask someone about ANYTHING - 98% of the time, that individual inundates you with the NEGATIVES as if you/we are too stupid to KNOW there are negatives and that we've considered them. So my question is, WHY do we care about 'the worst things' in anything? Why do we not focus on the POSITIVES? There is negative to every facet of life - but in my 70 years, I've come to the conclusion my POSITIVES far outweigh any of the negatives. When I'm asked "What was your favorite assignment" my answer is and always has been ALL OF THEM simply because I didn't take an assignment or go on a deployment and start looking for the NEGATIVES. Fact is you don't have to because the NEGATIVES will eventually seek you out - meaning you should know they exist, be prepared, but don't sit around worrying about them. I served 8 years in the USAF and over 34 years in the Army - Active and Reserve Components and all I have to say about it is - I loved every moment.... even the NEGATIVES, simply because I sought out the 'silver lining' in each, found it and did my best to use them to GROW as an individual and leader.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Jan 9 at 2022 9:05 PM

SPC Chris Ison — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 21:05:55 -0500

For me it is other veteran's.
I have had issues with many veteran's at the VA.

Some of them need to learn to stay in their lane. I remember, I was being seen for gall bladder surgery. I was talking to the doctor and my wife jumped in and said, "She doesn't need to know that." So, i told my wife to go wait outside. The doctor needed me to get a CT scan, so she sent me to radiology. When i came out of the office my wife was no where to be found, so I went to radiology to get that crap out of the way. My wife showed, up angry as hell. Angry because i kicked her out of the consultation and angry because she had to hunt for me after the fact. So this dumb ass steps in and starts defending my wife, and that almost came to blows.

Then their are the people who bad mouth the president (this was during President Obama's time in office). And I have a really sore spot for veteran's who support Trump. You will get mad about Jane Fonda (all of which is lies), or Cindy Williams (who said we did not need a pay raise), or even Tom cruise (who said being on set is the same as being deployed); But Trump calls us losers and suckers and you vote for him? Hypocritical much? I am sure they are all bad mouthing Joe Biden now too.

Then you have the whiner's who lie about their service. Claim medical records are classified, or that they were part of Hamburger Hill when they are nowhere near being old enough to even been in Vietnam let alone in a major battle. And my favorite "They didn't have stuff like this when i got out."

We are supposed to be unsung STARC heroes. And I am sick of veteran's acting like the civilian populace owes us something.

Response by PO1 Sam Deel made Jan 29 at 2022 1:26 AM

PO1 Sam Deel — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 01:26:54 -0500

The worst part for me, personally, was being forced out of the Service due to my Service Connected injury. The Navy did a royal screw up that cost me my career and my life. Actually, that the VA had a hand in that last part.

The ABSOLUTE worst experience was flying our Navy C-130 to the Air Base in Djibouti to provide an Honor Flight for a fallen Shipmate, whom I had never met. I had seen footage of such ceremonies, but never in person, let alone, directly participating in one. And there I was, for six hours, quietly starring at the Flag draped casket of a fallen Shipmate, right there on my cargo deck, only giving his his Chief escorting him Home, as supportive glance. Pure silence. Even the always present hum of 4 Hamilton props with their Allison powerplants, made not a sound. It was both awe inspiring and painful to the core, at the same time. An experience that I shall always remember, but desire never to repeat.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2022 1:36 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 01:36:36 -0500

Was truly an honor to serve my country. The relationships and memories of service, I wouldn't trade for anything. The worst experience is coming back from service and returning to a society that doesn't care or understand the sacrifices we soldiers make, and those sacrifices sometimes come at an expense. For me, I struggle with PTSD daily. It also makes it difficult to maintain employment and especially difficult for employers to understand you. That's what I dislike the most. Is the lack of understanding of veterans in the workplace. Here's a story with over 1.3 million youtube views to explain why.

https://www.change.org/p/justice-for-trey-and-deborah

Sign the Petition

Disabled Veteran & Wife Both Terminated Over Safety Concerns

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made Jan 29 at 2022 11:26 AM

SPC Lyle Montgomery — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 11:26:53 -0500

The worst part is the sorry ass politicans making decisions for the good troops doing the work. Two good examples of this are the debacle exits from Vietnam and Afganistan. It is not the troops that screwed things, It is the worthless politicans from both partys. I am glad to have served in Vietnam as an Army infantryman and have no regrets. My generation has lots of health problems but we have a good VA system in Omaha. I know that the current Gulf War vets have health problems and will into the future. God blett all service people and vets.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2022 3:04 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 03:04:34 -0500

I have recently come to the realization it is hard to be proud of fighting on the loosing team. First Viet Nam and our "withdrawal with honor" . Then Afghanistan, deserting and abandoning allies and Americans, even to the point of sneaking out of Bagram in the middle of the night. And now Ukraine.
I served proudly and at times fought hard. But
What is the worse part about being a veteran?
THE SHAME

Response by SFC Eddy Meador made Mar 5 at 2022 12:13 AM

SFC Eddy Meador — Sat, 05 Mar 2022 00:13:07 -0500

Having to watch it become a social experiment.

Response by Cpl Jeremy Jones made Mar 5 at 2022 2:50 AM

Cpl Jeremy Jones — Sat, 05 Mar 2022 02:50:47 -0500

That one guy that we gave the title Lance Commandant for always being a suck up to the officers and thinkings he’s in charge a squad leader who now thinks he’s giving orders!

Response by MSG David Lambert made Mar 5 at 2022 1:24 PM

MSG David Lambert — Sat, 05 Mar 2022 13:24:10 -0500

I’ll never regret serving with the best people our country offers. During my time from 1972 -1994 we had a lot of issues that impacted us. The end of the gold standard, Cold War, Vietnam draw down , multiple changes in service policies , reduction in force imposed twice, involuntarily reclassification of MOS, ( because they oops reduced the force and had to rebalance their NCO Corps) same with the Officers . We had several rounds of Race training, ran short of parts for maintenance after multiple budget cuts. Reinvented proficiency tests several times for common core training tests, MOS proficiency training tests. Weight testing and multiple gyrations of APFT testing . There is never an end to changes imposed regardless of common sense. We were and are compelled to accept those changes then and now. Even in retirement those changes still have a long reach. Still, I’m proud to have served my country for 22 years in peace and war. Proud my so served 27 years, and his son, my grandson is currently serving on his 4th year with the US Marines!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2022 6:43 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 18:43:21 -0500

Hurry up and wait! Especially when you have to pee at an urinalysis!

Response by CDR Dan Campbell made Mar 9 at 2022 8:51 PM

CDR Dan Campbell — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 20:51:08 -0500

The worst part for me was deciding what color of socks to wear. In the Navy if my shoes were brown, I wore brown socks; if my shoes were black, I wore black socks; and if my shoes were white, I wore white socks. So after retiring, I stopped wearing socks

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Mar 27 at 2022 1:25 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 13:25:37 -0400

Missing life because of trainings or deployments and not having a group of people who are committed to getting the job done when you transition to the civilian world.

Response by SMSgt Ed W. made Mar 27 at 2022 2:51 PM

SMSgt Ed W. — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 14:51:25 -0400

I learned how to eat to fast, a habit which follows me to this date.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Mar 27 at 2022 3:18 PM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 15:18:28 -0400

I Loved Serving & Was Proud To Be A Member Of Our USAF... The ONLY Reason I Decided To NOT Make It A Career Was The Income .....I Served From My 17th Birthday -- 06/29/61 - 06/10/65... During My Tour In South Korea, I Drew Base Pay, Hazardous Duty Pay, Isolated Hardship Duty Pay, & Over Seas Pay, TOTALING: $173.00 Per MONTH....And Had About 3 Years Time In Grade As An E-3 With No Promotions In Sight .... I Couldn't Afford To Re-Enlist, And It Looked Like They Couldn't Afford Me , Either....
Back In Those Years, It Wasn't Unusual For Ranks Up To & Including SSGT, To Receive Federal Welfare & Food Assistance Programs To Help Support Their Families......

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2022 8:59 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 May 2022 20:59:19 -0400

Just got done reading everyone's posts. Brought back loads of memories, both good and bad. I think, (like so many others), I had both good times and bad. There were both things I liked, and didn't like. Probably the thing that got under my skin the most was "favoritism", and/or politics....both military, and civilian.

But, in an effort to be positive, I think ONE OF the things I MISS the most, are the hi-jinks that leave you laughing so hard your throat and face hurt, and you have tears rolling down your cheeks.

But without a doubt, the [single] most traumatic event for me was having Mt. Pinatubo in the Philippines blow up in our faces. People sometimes want to counter with: "Well...I've been in a tornado.", or "I've been in a hurricane." Well, I'm here to tell ya; I've experienced tornado's as well as hurricanes, (or Typhoons, as they're called in that part of the world). 2 of them were "super" typhoons. And none of these compare to having a whole, entire, freaking MOUNTAIN....EXPLODE!!!!, in your face!!! In fact, it was one of the largest pyroclastic eruptions ever recorded since they started keeping track of them, (eg: bigger than the Mt. St. Helens pyroclastic eruption in Washington state in 1980). THEN, we got hit with a typhoon just a day or two later, and then another eruption. NOT, FUN!!!! As the years have gone by, I've learned that most of the Marines who were there with me came down with PTSD from the experience....myself included. Mother Nature showed us, (first hand), that she is so big, and so powerful, that she can squash us like bugs, and not even be aware that she did so. So....I don't mess around with Mother Nature any more since being present for that event. If the weather forecaster recommends staying at home, I keep my happy ass at home. And you won't see me visiting Yellowstone any time soon. No. It's not the same as being in combat. But that does not mean that being caught in pyroclastic volcanic eruption does not cause a significant emotional event.
I don't want to, and won't, but if anyone else is interested, you can look up the Mt. Pinatubo eruption on the internet, (in general), and You Tube, (specifically). Pretty safe bet that it's in Wikipedia as well.

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made May 10 at 2022 12:03 PM

SPC Lyle Montgomery — Tue, 10 May 2022 12:03:10 -0400

I wasn't crazy about being a grunt in Vietnam. Shooting and being shot at wasn't exactly my bag. I did what I was told and got out of there OK. After returning stateside I had trouble getting used to the Regular Army. My platoon sgt was a great guy and so were my fellow soldiers, but I had a butter bar who was fresh out of OCS and he was a real asshole. He seemed to go out of his way to make my life miserable. He told me that I could not wear the subdued CIB patch on my fatigues, which I was allowed to do. I told him that if he could wear the stupid airborn patch on his, then I could wear the CIB on mine.That started it all. Any way I ETS after 7 months and got the hell out of the Army with my full rank of E4 I am proud to have served but no way in hell did I want to stay in. I have had a successful career as a union Millwright.

Response by SSG Ramone Bey made May 10 at 2022 11:19 PM

SSG Ramone Bey — Tue, 10 May 2022 23:19:25 -0400

Lack of RESPECT from our own Country and the Ones we Protect !!! They are willing to Help other Countries with Money, Homes and FREE Education !!! Then CLAIM that we DIDN'T earn the RIGHT to RECIEVE any of it !!!

Response by PO1 Bob Davis made May 23 at 2022 6:17 PM

PO1 Bob Davis — Mon, 23 May 2022 18:17:57 -0400

Dealing with civilians! Zero pride in their work ethic.

Response by CH (MAJ) Eric Dye made Jun 6 at 2022 8:01 AM

CH (MAJ) Eric Dye — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 08:01:41 -0400

Every field has people who don't do their job or keep their promises - military, civilian, gov't, industry, business, etc. Bad bosses and military leaders make promises in the heat of a crisis that are easily forgotten when the pressure is off and the mission moves on. Good leaders though, even if they can't fulfill their promises because of circumstances beyond their control will likely suffer pains of conscience for the rest of their lives. Then, when such circumstances arise again make sure those they ask to do something know no absolute promises can be made but the consequences for everyone if the mission is accomplished.

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Jul 27 at 2022 7:47 PM

SGT Erick Holmes — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 19:47:46 -0400

The not knowing, the lack of common sense people don't have, the last mi ute changes for stupid sh*t, the not listening to the lower enlisted. There are others that i could go on and on about but the 1 one that sucked about being in the military is the not knowing

Response by SGT Doug Blanchard made Aug 4 at 2022 6:22 PM

SGT Doug Blanchard — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 18:22:04 -0400

The worst things in my case was having what is now an ex wife that would g I stepping out on me when my unit was out in the field on maneuvers, that or she would go running home to momma and daddy. I never knew if she was going to be at our apt when I got back.
Then I would get letters from friends back home where she was going to Ione of the local bases t I the EM club and leaving with different sailors or marines. I finally divorced her due to her bs.
But like the saying goes, karma is a bitch, she got married to a sailor that was ships company. She complained I was gone all the time, well the sailor she married was gone m I re often and for months at a time.
Only other bad thing was, the first years of my daughter's life, she did not even know who I was.
Even with the ups and downs, I would do it all over again. Best damn experience of my life by far.

Response by SPC Jennifer Clever made Aug 29 at 2022 5:34 AM

SPC Jennifer Clever — Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:34:43 -0400

Why invoke negative comments. It is a volunteer service. If you raise your right hand and take the oath. Do your time. If you don't like it don't reenlist. Pretty simple.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2022 7:48 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 19:48:20 -0500

Life isn't perfect but serving shows you how to appreciate the little things which makes life more grand

Response by Sgt Kenneth Garthee made Dec 28 at 2022 9:29 PM

Sgt Kenneth Garthee — Wed, 28 Dec 2022 21:29:54 -0500

Being patient! The hardest thing through all the networking of appeals and waiting for someone to give you an answer.