What is your most radical or unpopular opinion concerning the military?

2018-03-15T16:44:18-04:00

Response by SFC Johnathan Severs made Mar 15 at 2018 4:46 PM

2018-03-15T16:46:22-04:00

Toxic leadership and the ‘Good O’Boy’ program are real issues that are poorly addressed.

Response by Cpl Tom Surdi made Mar 15 at 2018 4:47 PM

2018-03-15T16:47:32-04:00

That we don't need to be put on a pedestal by everyone we encounter simply because we enlisted in the Military. Not everyone in the military is a good person, much like the rest of the country the Military has good and bad people in it. We are not all deserving of respect and admiration. Each individual needs to be judged separate, not on the basis that they simply enlisted.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Mar 15 at 2018 4:48 PM

2018-03-15T16:48:44-04:00

That our Military Services are being utilized by politicians for missions that don't necessarily serve the USA's best interests and that we are in effect becoming the policemen and women to the world.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 4:58 PM

2018-03-15T16:58:08-04:00

Don't get me started.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 5:07 PM

2018-03-15T17:07:15-04:00

Poor decisions made by persons sitting at a desk in a safe place away from the action.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Mar 15 at 2018 5:19 PM

2018-03-15T17:19:12-04:00

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Mar 15 at 2018 5:20 PM

2018-03-15T17:20:07-04:00

Well ever since the 1980's I thought the retirement benefits should be portable and based on years of service with a 5 year vesting period so that someone that serves 5 years or more gets a portion of the retirement as a lump sum or annuity. Also, say someone in their thirties that wants to enlist can roll in their civliian plan that has accrued so far to the military plan, so they might not have to serve a full 20 years before retirement but what they expected to round out their past civilian work. Thats really the biggest thing making the military retirement system more interchangeable and compatible with the civilian side. Nobody else agrees with me though and folks either say impossible or it would drain people away from the military and will never happen.

Response by SGT Russell Wickham made Mar 15 at 2018 5:26 PM

2018-03-15T17:26:48-04:00

That I was nothing more than a poorly paid mercenary. When I got to Iraq in 2008 and discovered that I wasn't doing anything to protect the United States, and everything to make Haliburton and KBR rich, it was shattering. Once I decided I could live with being a merc, then I was able to do my job. Afghanistan was actually a better deployment simply because there was less money to make there, and so we weren't doing missions to support the civilian contractors. Nothing I hated more than supporting contractors that were making 10 times what I was while mucking up the whole situation.

You asked. I'm pretty sure that answer isn't going to be well liked. Then again, a PFC isn't privy to the information senior leaders are and only have incomplete observation and perception to go on.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Mar 15 at 2018 5:41 PM

2018-03-15T17:41:24-04:00

The military should do as it did in the past (2005 back to about the late 80’s), that is to set standards of conduct, entry requirements, retention requirements, and discipline requirements above that of our societal norms. It appears today that we change standards and requirements everytime a segment of society deems it appropriate. I do not profess to have the answers, but I can say that observing from the outside it appears to me as if we continue to change mid stream without slowing down long enough to see if the last change worked. Thank you for your service. Please do not read into my statement trying to differentiate what specifically I am referencing, as stated, I am referring to all that is on going.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Mar 15 at 2018 5:52 PM

2018-03-15T17:52:54-04:00

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 5:53 PM

2018-03-15T17:53:48-04:00

I believe military manpower could be reduced approximately 15% and it would still run at the same level it does now. Too many times I question the purpose of Soldiers in units, and I'm sure it's the same in other branches.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 6:19 PM

2018-03-15T18:19:06-04:00

Not sure how radical this is: Military leaders should stop seeking intellectualism. Leadership isn't about philosophy. There is no need to be an anthropologist in order to lead. "Human terrain" and civil considerations are important, but not the focus of military science. The civilian corporate world, with its fascination with pseudo-scientific management fads, has _nothing_ to offer the professional military with regard to how-to-think. Also, contrarianism does not equal wisdom. Be wary of fads, slogans, or anything that uses the term "methodology" (which should mean a study of method, but is instead used for the purpose of making the word "method" look fancy).

I was only an E-5, and a long time ago. However, later, I worked at a defense contractor in a role that exposed me to lots of discussion of doctrine, particularly with regard to the whole counterinsurgency and military operations other the war stuff. There seemed to be lots of fascination with anything from the world of academia or business. It seemed like the Army invented the entire concept of hipsterism before hipster was even a thing. Just a few weeks ago there was National Geographic program, Chain of Command, that kept showing segments in each episode that presented what seemed to be highly scripted interactions between officers and a civilian academic. I am very skeptical of that sort of thing.

I see the need to understand what's going on in societies where our troops are deployed or might be deployed. I see a need to detect problems before they require attention. I see a need to develop and maintain relationships with influential or observant people on the ground in a British empire kind of way, but these are things that I think belong more in the realm of the civilian intelligence community and the Dept of State. Also, I think such things require much more specific expertise than just a broad coverage of social studies.

In the military, there is certainly a need for intellect, but not intellectualism. In other words, if you had to figure out how the United States could physically destroy the North Korean threat to its neighbors and the US before the North Korean regime could cause large-scale harm, that would require mental heavy-lifting. How do you achieve surprise? What is the extent of DPRK capabilities? What to hit in what order and where? What countermeasures does the enemy employ and how can we overcome those? Another fairly recent example, from the post-9/11 world, would be the development of tactics, techniques, and procedures for defeating the IED threat or more generally improving the ability of US ground forces to operate in an environment in which the enemy makes frequent use of guerrilla tactics. (The Left of Boom stuff.) Those are the kinds of things that military thinkers need to be good at. That's where the brains need to be applied (and have been). But while technologies may change the battlefield, and the identities of the enemies change over time, the military art and science is just an extrapolation of what's already been learned. There is no need to throw out the book and replace it with something from the faculty lounge and the board room.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 6:29 PM

2018-03-15T18:29:11-04:00

Certain enlisted MOS's should require at least an associate's degree before joining in order to keep pace with advancing technology and to bring prospective service members up to basic skill levels. Lack of proficiency in reading, writing, arithmetic, and Microsoft Office does impact mission.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 6:57 PM

2018-03-15T18:57:49-04:00

Also, I don't know you guys still have to deal with this, but they used have these orange reflective belts. I think that Army was little too attached to those.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 8:07 PM

2018-03-15T20:07:46-04:00

That every United States soldier is considered the most highly trained and best equipped soldier in the world. I beg to differ.

Response by SGT Mark Halmrast made Mar 15 at 2018 8:37 PM

2018-03-15T20:37:47-04:00

Combat MOS = males
Nuke the PT belt
Increase pay, especially haz duty

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Mar 15 at 2018 8:39 PM

2018-03-15T20:39:09-04:00

Mandatory servce

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Mar 15 at 2018 9:09 PM

2018-03-15T21:09:14-04:00

Transgender wanna bees that join the service to pay for the operations and not being able to deploy for years or maybe never. Opinions vary

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 9:12 PM

2018-03-15T21:12:46-04:00

Airborne is overrated.
Marines aren't even a real Branch.
The Tuna MRE is the best.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Mar 15 at 2018 9:51 PM

2018-03-15T21:51:13-04:00

Young women who reach the age of 18 should be required to register for Selective Service.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 10:09 PM

2018-03-15T22:09:12-04:00

Lowering standards to achieve the politically desired demographics will get people killed.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 11:26 PM

2018-03-15T23:26:49-04:00

W T F. You figure it out.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2018 1:13 AM

2018-03-16T01:13:14-04:00

PT standards. MOS based.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Mar 16 at 2018 2:23 AM

2018-03-16T02:23:11-04:00

SGT Joseph Gunderson getting reprimanded or even kicked out for wearing your religion on your sleeve...having a bible at work, or a religious calendar or even speaking about your religion while on duty or in uniform....just really makes me mad.

Response by Cpl Zach Wellborn made Mar 16 at 2018 2:47 AM

2018-03-16T02:47:42-04:00

There shouldn’t be a lower fitness standard for women. Only strong as the weakest link right? Why make them that right off the bat? I think there should be 1 bar, meet it or get out. Equality right? No weak links.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2018 8:08 AM

2018-03-16T08:08:05-04:00

I probably shared it yesterday...we'll see how flayed I get :)

In short, I think we forget that the Military, regardless of branch, MOS, designator, rate or community is about fighting and supporting the fighting of wars. I'm older (maybe wiser) now, and hope being a "civilian" has "civilized" me a bit, but our enemies are decidedly uncivilized, and I believe that one can "overthink" policy to the point of inhibiting our combat capability. Within reason, and without subterfuge, complacency or tolerance of gross criminality or cruelty..."warriors" aren't, and most likely should not be, "squeaky clean".

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Mar 16 at 2018 11:20 AM

2018-03-16T11:20:57-04:00

SGT Joseph Gunderson here is another one. Gender reassignment surgery! Should be paid out of their own pocket. IT is not life or death or life threatening in any way. it is not a surgery to alleviate someone who is in terrible pain...it is not to cut a something growing in you that might kill you...it is a choice...no it is a WANT...a DESIRE...so yeah, this just chaps my hide.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Mar 16 at 2018 11:43 AM

2018-03-16T11:43:30-04:00

I really have no radical or negative opinions.

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made Mar 16 at 2018 12:26 PM

2018-03-16T12:26:02-04:00

That the military used me, abused me, damaged me, then put me out with a medical discharge and my country as represented by the VA doesn't care.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2018 1:53 PM

2018-03-16T13:53:54-04:00

That no one since WWII has "fought for our freedom". Not since then has our actual freedom been threatened. In Iraq/Afghanistan/Vietnam/etc. we fought for America, sure. But had we lost/quit/etc. no ones life back home would have been void of freedom. You hear this phrase thrown around a lot though.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 16 at 2018 3:02 PM

2018-03-16T15:02:04-04:00

shooting people who are beyond FUBAR

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Mar 16 at 2018 6:47 PM

2018-03-16T18:47:36-04:00

The most unpopular opinion concerning the Marine Corps has nothing to do with the Marine Corps itself.
When I served I actually serve with fellow Marines that actually Carried Ku-Klux Klan membership cards. I serve with Caucasian Marines that had never came into contact with a real black person outside of TV. And some of these situations were not fun, When any in we are respected each other and we had each other's back. In a couple even burned up their membership cards because they realized over time that what they were told about African Americans whether true. Is just a part of life but I would never tell anyone in the civilian world that I did not like the Marine Corps or that I am glad I am out of the military. The military isn't designed for you to have fun or to be treated like a king or Queen we all enlisted to do a job and sometimes that job is awfully dirty and hard. I practically lived in the Middle East before it was popular to be in the Middle East the technology wasn't there to film us in real time and broadcast it over Satellite TV. And I am in no hurry to recount some of the things that went on I just thank God I made it back.

Response by PO2 Peter Klein made Mar 16 at 2018 7:38 PM

2018-03-16T19:38:31-04:00

We don't need a military parade!

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Mar 16 at 2018 10:01 PM

2018-03-16T22:01:00-04:00

It appears from Colnel up they are tied into one scam or another and stealing from the troops they are supposedly in charge of

Response by CW2 Ernest Krutzsch made Mar 17 at 2018 6:43 AM

2018-03-17T06:43:13-04:00

That your squad leader will take care of you, in most instances their time is consumed filling out the reems of paperwork required to get rid of the poor soldiers. You go to them to let them know you are eligible for promotion, you tell them you want to go to the next required development course. Take care of your own career

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2018 8:54 AM

2018-03-17T08:54:33-04:00

That not everyone is created equal and we shouldn’t expect that people will be equal.

Some people are smarter than others, some taller, shorter, thinner, fatter, coordinated, stronger, a better fighter, a better linguist, better with people, better with inanimate objects like computers, etc.
That the SOLE determining factor for selection for a position and hiring should always and only be reduced to selecting the best candidate regardless of race, gender, sexual oreintation, Religion, age etc. for that is true equality. Everyone has the same rights and responsibilities, including the right to fail. Create true egalitarian pockets where the mission of the military and the safety and defense of the nation matter the most. incidentally this should apply in all areas. In the case of a tie ir similar candidates then the one with the lowest socioeconomic (hardship) position wins out.

Response by Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay made Mar 17 at 2018 11:51 AM

2018-03-17T11:51:07-04:00

War is obsolete in resolving conflicts. It does not prove who is Right or Wrong; Good or Bad. - from a Veteran For Peace and Pax Christi member.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Mar 17 at 2018 4:48 PM

2018-03-17T16:48:11-04:00

With the draft the military had a better cross-section of society. With the all-volunteer military we tend to have a draft of the disadvantaged.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2018 8:05 PM

2018-03-17T20:05:13-04:00

This is neither a radical nor an unpopular opinion. It is an immutable, irrefutable, and indisputable FACT: the Navy and the Marines existed from 1775 until 1783. Then, every single sailor and marine was fired. Sent packing. Told not to come back on Monday. By the Second Continental Congress. Every stitch of clothing, every musket, every boat, barge, and box of hard tack was sold or given away. In 1783, the Navy and its marines ceased to exist. Period.

A navy and its company of marines was chartered, note, not re-chartered, to BEGIN its role as a military of the United States of America in 1794, as a result of the Navy Act, passed by the first Congress of the now United States federal government. But, it took four years to buy the first boat and commission the first crew to man the boat in 1798. So, do not tell the good citizens of America that the Navy and Marines have existed since 1775. They have not. They will not celebrate their 240-something birthdays this year. They were first "conceived" in 1794, but they were not "born" until 1798.

And you want to know who acknowledges those facts? A certain four-star Marine general and former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, James "Hoss" Cartwright. I was acquainted with this fine man and great general when he was the commanding officer at StratComm in Bellevue, NE. On one occasion while we were dining together at a military birthday ball for the 55th Air Wing at Offutt AFB, I casually broached this topic with the general and his command noncomm, a Navy Master Chief, by the way. Seems the general knew all about it, had for decades, but remarked that he wasn't about to piss off a bunch of marines with rifles. We all laughed. Oh, yes, the general and his CMC both served on the USS MIDWAY, but after me. I don't think I'll ever see a four-star to salute me again!!!

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Mar 17 at 2018 10:22 PM

2018-03-17T22:22:32-04:00

I feel there should be more officer recruitment from the enlisted ranks. They should find outstanding E-5s and E-6s with 5 to 10 years time in service and send them to college on an ROTC scholarship to complete their bachelor degrees and then, here's the radical part, commission them as 1LTs based on their prior experience or, at least, have them only serve one year as a 2LT. The reason why the Army has a retention problem with junior officers is that the "college kids" tend to view the Army as a stepping stone to another career rather than a career unto itself. A junior NCO with 5 or more years in is already invested in making the Army a career.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2018 3:33 AM

2018-03-18T03:33:48-04:00

That no Soldiers should be forced to live in barracks.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2018 12:20 AM

2018-03-19T00:20:33-04:00

We need to severely curb the encroaching "PC" culture that's bleeding in from the idiots on the cancer that is the American far left. Being that I'm in the United States Army, where we're trained and expected to eventually have to "kill people," I don't need some pantywaist coming up to me and whining because I said or typed the word "fuck" somewhere and they got their feelings hurt. Cursing is part of who the military is. If you don't like it? You volunteered to be here. Go find something else to do for a living.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 12:02 PM

2018-03-20T12:02:20-04:00

The Post 911 GI Bill is WAY too generous.

I like the transferability to children. I'm not a huge fan of transferability to spouses (just because I've seen too many 'contract marriages' where a young guy signs over his GI Bill for BAH), but that's not the hill I'm going to die on.
What aggravates me is that it is supposed to be an assistance program-- not a sustenance program for 4 years after completing the service. The old Montgomery GI Bill (which you had to elect and pay for, by the way) was a tuition assistance program. It covered state school tuition (or up to that amount at a more expensive school), and that was IT. No housing stipend, no meal plan stipend, none of the extras that Post 911 has. It was designed to HELP a servicemember through college, and it was affordable (largely because not a lot of people who earned it used it or used it fully-- a lot used it for vocational training which costs a LOT less than a worthless 4 year degree.) What we have now is an unaffordable entitlement program.
Do I like getting free stuff for my service-- sure. I DON'T like adding to the crippling federal debt or otherwise crippling the defense budget with money better spent elsewhere.

Response by SPC David Willis made Mar 20 at 2018 1:01 PM

2018-03-20T13:01:03-04:00

That we spend entirely too much money on R&D and equipment when the soldier (sailor, airman or marine... also coastie I guess) is the most important part of the military.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 8:54 PM

2018-03-20T20:54:58-04:00

Get rid of the military academies. Waste of money.

Response by SPC(P) Mark Newman made Mar 24 at 2018 11:13 AM

2018-03-24T11:13:15-04:00

What opinion do I hold that will make y'all hate me lol? Answering this is just asking for trouble. Of course, e-4, so, if being honest can annoy someone, I'll try.

Response by CPT Earl George made Mar 25 at 2018 7:48 PM

2018-03-25T19:48:38-04:00

Tired of hearing "hero" attached to someone who did a tour in Iraq or Afghanistan.(mainly by the news media)

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Apr 2 at 2018 12:00 PM

2018-04-02T12:00:20-04:00

It could be effectively replaced by the private sector, in a truly free society.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 2 at 2018 9:52 PM

2018-04-02T21:52:20-04:00

There is no physical equality among people of the same gender. Much less people from different genders.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2018 8:36 PM

2018-04-03T20:36:40-04:00

Our medical retirement system is unfair to the taxpayers. It's way too easy for someone who was only in the military for 2 years to get paid for life. This is a job, a honorable job, but still a job. If Walmart retired everyone who gets hurt and pay them for life, then Walmart will be bankrupt.

Response by Cpl D L Parker made Apr 4 at 2018 8:52 PM

2018-04-04T20:52:01-04:00

We only need one camouflage materiel.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2018 9:06 PM

2018-04-04T21:06:29-04:00

Two of them.
1. Kick the Air Force out of DOD and just make them a uniformed service like Public Health and NOAA.
WHY: Really? You have to ask? All you have to look at their AFI to recognize that they are trying to run it like a corporation then a military organization. I have more respect for the USPHS than the USAF.

2. Do away with undergraduate program at military academies.
WHY: There are plenty of ROTC options. You still want 1,000 special people to pick? Give them military academy scholarships. It not like these graduates are any better prepared for a commission then ROTC counterparts and it would still be cheaper.

Response by SSG Craig Newton made Apr 8 at 2018 10:37 AM

2018-04-08T10:37:53-04:00

That everyone, either upon graduating from high school or turning 18 if not in school, has to serve a minimum of 2 years in the military branch of their choice.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Apr 8 at 2018 2:05 PM

2018-04-08T14:05:16-04:00

That is over bloated, far too many generals and admirals, doesn't train to be professionals, and is still conducting training like it was WWII.

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Apr 16 at 2018 8:11 AM

2018-04-16T08:11:38-04:00

Mine is that we've all been manipulated. We join the military as young men and women, thinking that we are defending our country and our Constitution. This is rarely the case, and few of us, at that age, understand the Constitution's history and what it means. Then, we go do things that are blatently unconstitutional. I didn't understand this until I was already a Commander, getting a briefing in 2003 Afghanistan that we were putting in infrastructure to stay at least another 10 years. I thought we were there to get bin Laden and leave. I was played for a sucker. I don't like being a sucker. We were used as enforcers for the New World Order. I DON'T LIKE THAT!

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2018 2:37 PM

2018-04-18T14:37:26-04:00

I have a two part answer to that question that are both a radical and unpopular opinion concerning the military: 1) Awards and Decorations should not count toward promotion AND 2) not everyone could, should or even wants to be a Command Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force! Notes on number 1: if Awards and Decorations did not count toward promotion, the only people who would have them are the ones who actually earned and deserve them! Notes on number 2: because there are a lot of people who just want to WORK ie., do the JOB they Joined the Military to DO, starting at E-4 there should be a alternate career path for those people where they can make grade for the money! Give 'em the stripes but not the star through E-7 based on job knowledge and performance and the price they pay is that they can't get any higher.

Response by MAJ Bill Maynard made Apr 19 at 2018 3:35 PM

2018-04-19T15:35:23-04:00

When you wear a uniform, you represent the group of people who has fought to preserve our nation's freedom and safety of it's citizens. The uniform represents far more than one service member to the average civilian. Let them give you thanks and be graceful about it. They may never interact with another service member or veteran. You may be the only one person they have had the opportunity to express their gratitude to.

Response by Gregory Pasquier made Apr 27 at 2018 7:28 PM

2018-04-27T19:28:32-04:00

That we “need” a large standing active military.

Response by Maj Earl Tilford made Apr 29 at 2018 10:14 AM

2018-04-29T10:14:33-04:00

That military people are unthinking robots. War is by far more mental than physical since the aim is to break the otherside's will or intimidate it into doing our will. That is a mental process backed by physical action. The physical part is science in material and art in application through process which is itself mentally-driven. Great military leaders read history and philosophy and they apply it through leadership. Way too much emphasis on the managerial ehtos in the 1950s led to disaster in Vietnam. Our chief opponent, Vo Nguyen Giap was a student of Clausewitz more than Sun Tzu. Before becoming a revolutionary he was a college professor who taught French Revolution and the Era of Napoleon. Marxist concepts flawed his grand strategy but in the end, US forces were outthought more than they were outfought.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Apr 29 at 2018 3:41 PM

2018-04-29T15:41:26-04:00

That the military has evolved, and not in a good way. It used to be if a military member screwed up they would be punished sure but it would be handled at the platoon or company level and they would be 'retrained' by their respective NCO's and rehabilitated to the betterment of the respective service. Sure there were some that got removed but those were the ones that actually did something that could not BE rehabilitated. These day we are too quick to discharge a service member for something that back in the day would have gotten a summarized, a retrain and then the member would be able to resume. Now we lose valuable members and in a time where some branches are finding it hard to even find minimally qualified candidates, let alone keep them.

The military needs to STOP doing political BS missions. We are not a police force and yet for decades its exactly what we have been doing.

Response by MSG Frank Kapaun made Apr 29 at 2018 10:35 PM

2018-04-29T22:35:23-04:00

That we as veterans are “victims.” No we aren’t, I knew what I was getting into when I signed on the dotted line.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Apr 30 at 2018 1:55 AM

2018-04-30T01:55:06-04:00

My most radical opinion of the military is, that 99% of officers feel that they are above many military regulations. Uniform wear especially. Even since my retirement 26 years ago, I see their disregard for the correct wearing of their uniforms is appalling and shameful. Were I on active duty today, I would not salute their violations of uniform wear. But I had to respect the rank, but not the man/woman in that uniform.

Response by PO1 Charles White made May 2 at 2018 1:11 PM

2018-05-02T13:11:38-04:00

The paper work and the amount of it is absolutely maddening. The levels of approval from an idea takes months and sometimes years.

Response by SFC Nelson Munford made May 3 at 2018 5:42 PM

2018-05-03T17:42:38-04:00

The average person in this country doesn't have a clue about the US Military's day to day operation and far too many service members don't either.

Response by GySgt Kevin Vest made May 4 at 2018 11:39 AM

2018-05-04T11:39:30-04:00

Mine was that I joined the Marine Corps. My parents were against anyone of us kids going in because of some of my uncles' experiences in Vietnam but, I went anyways. It had nothing to do with me going in the Corps, but, that I went in any branch of the service. Later they realized it was for the best and my older brother actually went in the Air Force about a year and a half after I went in.

Response by CPL Any Jim made May 5 at 2018 5:57 PM

2018-05-05T17:57:13-04:00

That a 2LT out ranks a CSM! I would of love to have seen a 2LT tell a CSM to get down and push! Who could fantom some one with 25 years plus in service could be told to push by sum one with less than a year in service! But it is possible, and the ones that knows this is the CSM! Why you think 2LT and officers get awards deserserved or awards upgraded' because CSM says so because senior non- commisinoed advisor knows rank structure; thay just not going to let a subordinate know .....

Response by CPL Any Jim made May 5 at 2018 6:07 PM

2018-05-05T18:07:17-04:00

Quick question ? If it is motor stables monday and an NCOIC is out doing checks on generators. And CSM is walking around with Plt Sgt and they pop their head in the NCOIC office and four privates are asleep! Can CSM make LTC service members push? Technically service members are equipment on LTC PB( Property Book?) Or Should the CSM make the Plt Sgt push till NCOIC comes back from generator checks? Because technically a CSM job entails as senior Non Commisioned Officer advisior an only advises and deals with Corporal to who has highest rank right below theirs ?

Response by SGT Bryan O'Reilly made May 12 at 2018 9:19 AM

2018-05-12T09:19:46-04:00

That we should as a nation be required to know and understand the articles of the freedom we defend. that our history and constitution should be made part of public school curricula to include small arms safety training. The 2nd amendment is not a privilege its a birthright it needs to be taken seriously or we risk losing it. That means teaching kids safety at an early enough age so they aren't fascinated by guns later And, finally that t should include a compulsory 15 mos to 4 years commitment to serve. Those that are unsuited could do Peace Corps or a similar sanctioned humanitarian mission. But since the end of the draft this nation has become gentrified and servile. Civs see us as 2d characters they are either afraid of our potential melt down or we are some icon incapable of doing wrong. Both are untrue and that isolation and gentrification are the recipe for end of empire. IMO
Bayonet!

Response by Cpl Eric White made May 15 at 2018 10:22 AM

2018-05-15T10:22:23-04:00

For me is the fact that there are many proxy "wars" that are happening all over the world in which our country is performing operations covertly. Obviously many are essential to try and sway situations in the favor of the US regarding the delicate balances of world powers while others are for the gain of individuals who have no other motive than pocket lining. Regardless while active duty I would serve without question due to the nature of my obligation to the country. Yet in hindsight questions arise as to the legitimacy of some of these conflicts.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made May 15 at 2018 10:46 AM

2018-05-15T10:46:33-04:00

That “A veteran is someone who, at one point in their life wrote a blank check made payable to “The United States of America,” for an amount up to and including their life.” In addition, to the everyone thinking that they should get a check for the rest of their lives by blaming everything on their "military duty."

Response by MSG Rod "Seaux" Larreau made May 20 at 2018 12:19 PM

2018-05-20T12:19:32-04:00

Using the military for a social experiment by congress members or radical groups. The military needs to remain a merit based promotion process, not a place to hide members of society that have a hard time climbing the ladder in society. It doesn't matter the ethnic back round, gender or sexual preference, everyone must meet high standards, morals, and true faith to the Constitution of the USA. If you don't believe in the Constitution then go find a country you are willing to fight for. If you aren't a student of the Constitution then don't re-enlist. You should know what you are swearing to before raising your right hand..... the oath doesn't promise a paycheck, medical benefits, education assistance or the right to claim a religious, sexual, or ethical exemption. It all boils down to who is on your left and right, if those your with don't feel the same dedication to their oath, then all trust is lost. The unit, group or individual will fail every endeavor, task, obstacle and battle. Our officers and civilian oversight need to understand this and stop playing games with men and women in uniform.

Response by CPT Don Kemp made May 20 at 2018 9:47 PM

2018-05-20T21:47:29-04:00

The military is not a safe place to be. I never served in combat but in both Korea and Europe, there were training fatalities, some involving alcohol, all from violating some safety protocol. What with long hours, heavy machinery, weapons, explosives, and stress, it is a tribute to the military fatalities are not higher.

Response by PO2 Louis Fattrusso made May 28 at 2018 2:20 PM

2018-05-28T14:20:48-04:00

Having to work for a poor and negatively aggressive chief and not being able to walk away.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jun 2 at 2018 12:18 PM

2018-06-02T12:18:52-04:00

When they stopped flogging and beheading! Hurt my feelings!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2018 12:57 AM

2018-06-04T00:57:05-04:00

That there should be one physical fitness standard, regardless of age or gender. The only variation should be between Services.

Response by SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez made Jun 4 at 2018 10:30 AM

2018-06-04T10:30:09-04:00

SGT Gunderson,
I've never ran into anything specific comments about the military. But, can tell those who say, thank you for your service, genuinely. I had some individuals that say it, then they look at me up and down...what the heck? I rather you not say anything at all. We all join for different reasons, I just happened to be part of major operations along the way.

Response by LCpl Jason C. Willis made Jun 4 at 2018 11:57 AM

2018-06-04T11:57:29-04:00

Plenty of domestic enemies that are actually an existential threat to the United States and the freedoms of the people...

I digress...

Semper Fidelis

Response by Sgt Joshua Hout made Jun 4 at 2018 12:03 PM

2018-06-04T12:03:57-04:00

I don't like the way the USMC promotes. There were many leaders that I came across that didn't know their job but the could do 20 pull ups, run fast and shoot well. I agree that a Marine must be physically fit and be able to shoot but I think the Corps would benefit from implementing a test to get promoted like the Navy does.

Response by PFC Elijah Rose made Jun 4 at 2018 3:09 PM

2018-06-04T15:09:20-04:00

I have several very unpopular opinions regarding the defence establishment. Here's the one I think should be easiest to pursuade people of:
D&C and dress uniforms do nothing for no one. They're anachronisms from 200 years ago and are only a waste of time and money.

Response by SGT Patrick Reno made Jun 5 at 2018 5:10 PM

2018-06-05T17:10:43-04:00

Before any one can enter any public service job they should have to serve their country in the military. All public service jobs should be earned through military service. Especially politicians.

Response by SSgt Ronald Orso made Jun 5 at 2018 5:19 PM

2018-06-05T17:19:55-04:00

The military is not a social experiment.

Response by PO1 Michael Bruner made Jun 6 at 2018 6:58 AM

2018-06-06T06:58:53-04:00

I know I'm sick to death of people assuming we've all got PTSD or some other mental disorder.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2018 2:03 PM

2018-06-07T14:03:59-04:00

"Athleticism" is over-emphasized WRT PT.

Be fit. Be Strong. Be ready to fight. If you are pulling 'two-a-days' but you can't shoot, don't understand the fundamentals of the offense, and don't understand the Constitution you've sworn to defend, you might be an athlete. You will also be someone I don't want to fight with.

If you can shoot a gnats earwax out of his ear at 300 meters, study all the doctrine and tactics and intellectual 'meat' the Army can throw at you but are to thick or too slender to get your weapon system to the place on the battlefield it needs to be to ensure it influences the enemy in our favor, then you aren't a Soldier. You also are someone I cannot fight with.

But if you habitually score an above unit average score on a PT Test, you work hard to know your job and perform your tasks to standard if not above standard, you love America and the U.S. Constitution that protects it and it's people, and you can handle yourself respectably in a fistfight where a friend or family member is in jeopardy.... the you sound like a Warrior... and I've got your back.

Too many Soldiers spend too much vain time trying to look a certain way or run a certain speed and simultaneously could be taken out with one firm bitch-slap. That's not a Soldier in anyway consistent with the Warrior Ethos.... If you can't fight, all the PT you do is worthless.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Jun 8 at 2018 3:29 PM

2018-06-08T15:29:42-04:00

Military pay is comparable, or even better than, civilian pay.
Reasoning:
Military is only taxed on base pay. Plus when deployed in a qualifying zone you pay no income tax.
You get extra pay for living off post.
You get extra pay when you mess separately.
You get an annual clothing allowance.
You get 30 days paid vacation a year.
You get some of the best free medical care and dental.
You get paid training in the skill of your choice.
You get several different incentive pays for special skills, like jump pay, dive pay, etc.

one of the best jobs you can have as a civilian is accountant (money wise). they start at 26 dollars an hour, and generally double their salary every 7 years. It takes a four year degree (which actually takes most people five years to complete). So at 23 you are making about 52k a year, regardless of where they live their is no variable housing allowance in the civilian world. If you want to work at a big 4 accounting firm you can do it, they have one in almost every major city, but if you work in San Francisco, Los Angels, Miami, New York, (these cities all have the some of the highest earning potential) you will commute 2 to 3 hours day. with commute and starting workload as an accountant you are looking at an 80 hour work week, 50-60 in the office. Plus you have to be certified to earn anything more than your starting salary and that takes a Masters degree and at least one year of accounting experience to be a CPA. so it takes you 7-8 years to become an actual "accountant". Then you have to have continuing education credits, and each year the tax code and can and does change. And if you work in say Virginia beach you top out at probably 80k a year.

A specialist over 3 makes 2314.80 base pay. or roughly 27,777.60 a year (or about 13.50 an hour for a 40 hour work week), a little more than half a starting accountant. And doesn't pay rent, utilities, school loans, or pay for medical and dental insurance, and you don't NEED a car, or any form of transportation.

But let us make a more comparable comparison an EMT, in Raleigh, N.C. averages 15 dollars an hour. NOTE this IS NOT a starting salary. this is an average of all the EMT's in the city form 0 years of experience to over 40.

There is a reason construction workers command a premium salary, they only work for 6-9 months out of the year, so they need to earn more when they work, to live during the lean times, There is a reason why certain fields like lawyer ( 7 years of education a state certification), doctor (8 years of education, 3 years of practical experience, and sate certification), accountant (6 years of education and state certification), architect ( 6 years of education and one of the most stringent state certifications lasting five days), get payed a premium salary, they spent years learning their profession.

Being a soldier is the easiest job you will ever have. Next time you think, I am going to get out and make real money, you might want to do some research first.

Response by Maj Hans Von Milla made Jun 9 at 2018 8:52 AM

2018-06-09T08:52:53-04:00

That the Air Force screwed up royally when it deleted warrant officers from its force structure. Members of the other services understand this instantly when I say it, but when I say it to Airmen, I get blank "WTF?" stares, or "the Pilot Mafia would never allow that now" or "the Chief Master Sergeant Mafia would never allow that now." Except for Airmen who have worked with warrant officers: they understand a Warrant's value.

Response by SSgt Frank Martin made Jun 10 at 2018 4:01 PM

2018-06-10T16:01:52-04:00

I am absolutely against transgender ople in the military...for both mental and physical considerations.

Response by SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson made Jun 11 at 2018 3:38 PM

2018-06-11T15:38:58-04:00

The military has gotten too soft! We train to fight not "hug it out." My basic/AIT was brutal but it is what made me who and what I am. Pretty soon instead of shooting Howitzers we will be shooting glitter cannons. I didn't enlist to make friends, I enlisted to protect fellow citizens and our country. Now its "drill Sargent that hurt my feelings, I'm sorry private why don't you take a break and i'll reflect on my actions."

Response by SSG Rick Miller made Jul 1 at 2018 2:58 PM

2018-07-01T14:58:47-04:00

That nobody but Rangers should wear a black beret, and that women don't belong in combat arms.

Response by CPT Bobby Fields made Jul 6 at 2018 11:01 AM

2018-07-06T11:01:50-04:00

I don't know how radical it is, but we have to get past the belief by the general public that everyone who served is somehow an expert on the military. Closely related, don't think you are an expert because you served one enlistment.

Response by Cpl Amilcar Mendieta made Jul 14 at 2018 11:02 AM

2018-07-14T11:02:31-04:00

At the time, I was assigned to cbt engr battilon Lejeune main site, troops work in the field stayed in the field. When wm's were assigned to our company. They had special privileges, won being that at the end of the day, they would be sent back to Garrison, while the men stayed out in the field. Needless to say that just didn't cut it. Also the work being dispatched what's always bias for them, and increase in rank was much easier for the WM's. If you're in my company platoon Squad you need to pull your own weight no matter of gender, I have no problem working side-by-side female Marines as long as they work and do the same work I'm doing.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 12:09 PM

2018-07-14T12:09:49-04:00

PT ceases to be an individual responsibility the second you mandate 1.5 hours of enforced pt every morning. You planned it now it's your responsibility.
PT is "only to maintain" is a lazy excuse for a bad program. No decent workout program in the world spends over an hour 5 days a week 'just maintaining' a substandard fitness level.
A forced pt program the involves running every day or almost every day is a disservice to your soldiers and a cop out.
Officers/e6+ should do pt in the mornings just like everyone else. (Maybe just my experience with this one)

Response by SGT Stephen Jaffe made Jul 15 at 2018 7:42 PM

2018-07-15T19:42:43-04:00

When I see a man or woman in a military uniform, I always thank them for their service. I remember catching flak in 1968 when I came home.
Here is one opinion I read from a man who is a field grade officer in the Army Reserves. He had served on active duty, but switched to the reserves. He said the only recent war where Americans were fighting for their country was World war II. The other wars, we were and are fighting for someone else's country.

Response by PO3 Don Goracke made Jul 15 at 2018 7:50 PM

2018-07-15T19:50:28-04:00

Anything gender outside man And woman

Response by Cpl John Cogswell made Jul 17 at 2018 11:49 AM

2018-07-17T11:49:37-04:00

I found out in the late 1990s that Smedley Butler's quote still held a lot of truth. War is a racket.

In the spring of 1990 as a Marine grunt, I had a chance to help develop lesson plans for patrolling operations, infantry tactics, and weapon system training handouts and courses in Spanish for the militaries of Honduras and Guatemala.

These forces then committed atrocities against local indigenous people who could not read, let alone study and espouse Marxism, or wage a guerilla war against their governments.

What they had was land that wealthy individuals in both countries wanted for development, but the local subsistence Indian farmers were in the way.

By labelling them as communists, not only did they have a free hand in pushing them off their land, but in exterminating them as well.

Our military once stood on the principles of spreading democracy. I once believed we could and would do no wrong, that we had moral clarity on our side. Now I am more inclined to ask who is profiting when I see it deployed. Patriotism to me, is more often than not, a lie used to justify the enrichment of the few over the many. I am not saying it is dead, but patriotism should never be blind to consequences.

Response by SFC Armando Sanchez made Jul 23 at 2018 7:59 PM

2018-07-23T19:59:15-04:00

The military is not a democracy.

Response by CPT Stephen Smith made Jul 28 at 2018 6:30 AM

2018-07-28T06:30:55-04:00

Sgt., you're likely too young to been around in the '60's and 70's to have experienced the exact opposite reaction from many of your countryman directed towards Americans wearing the uniform of the U.S. I promise you, today's reaction is far better than that experienced by members of the military in the Vietnam era, which was often very demeaning and negative. I wonder if today's reaction to persons in uniform issn't due to a mixed stimulus. One, older people may be feeling a bit guilty for their unfortunate behavior toward military members during their youth and to the widespread negativity of the Vietnam era. Secondly, younger people's motivation to encourage today's military might be stimulated by the fact that they understand that as long as enough volunteers sign up to do the Nation's fighting, they don't have to be bothered, themselves.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2018 9:26 AM

2018-07-28T09:26:34-04:00

Personally, I hate the black beret for Soldiers.

Response by Sgt James Shott made Aug 1 at 2018 3:39 PM

2018-08-01T15:39:15-04:00

I am probably not the first or only one with this opinion, but I put in my 4 years, but was not and am not a "hero." I never left the States, and my job-related "dangers" were more likely personal errors than anything.

I feel certain there are at least tens of thousands like me.

Response by SPC Steve ChenRobbins made Aug 7 at 2018 2:44 AM

2018-08-07T02:44:23-04:00

It depends on who the listener is, as to which is the most unpopular. The most radical would probably be my belief in the system suggested by Robert A Heinlein whereby full voting citizenship is only available to those who have served in the Military or the equivalent. It obviously would require revision of the Constitution, at the least, and is not likely to happen bar an alien invasion or a zombie apocalypse, but while Service does not automatically make you a wise or good person, I think you should have to put in an ante if you want to decide which way the game is going to go.

Response by CW2 Michael Bodnar made Aug 9 at 2018 2:49 PM

2018-08-09T14:49:17-04:00

PT Belts actually save lives in combat and must be worn at all times when on the FOB.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Aug 14 at 2018 10:14 AM

2018-08-14T10:14:07-04:00

women in actual combat moss's can they lead from the front in combat not the testing sites or field. COMBAT

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 14 at 2018 3:45 PM

2018-08-14T15:45:59-04:00

It is only a dangerous job.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2018 10:37 PM

2018-08-14T22:37:01-04:00

I am not a fan of female soldiers in combat arms MOS.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2018 8:35 PM

2018-08-16T20:35:06-04:00

SHARP is an abused program and this makes it hard for real victims to seek help.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2018 10:31 PM

2018-08-20T22:31:39-04:00

Army of One was R-Word.
“Army Strong” got it right.
(Certainly couldn’t go with Army smart)

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Aug 22 at 2018 9:36 AM

2018-08-22T09:36:05-04:00

I don't know if it's radical or unpopular. The US Military has no interest whatsoever in actually winning wars. The idea is to keep them going as long as possible while the government sticks a sharp stick into anything that might actually bring peace.

Response by SSG David Forler made Aug 29 at 2018 7:21 PM

2018-08-29T19:21:38-04:00

TransGender B.S. Wussiefing the Army to be politically correct. The BUISNESS is to destroy the enemy. Not to go to your gay safe place, blow bubbles, have a nappypoo... It’s time to wake up the RE EDUCATED, brainwashed by the worst teacher unions and socialist, progressive, Marxist, true RACIST against White America( Racism is Racism, PERIOD)

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Sep 1 at 2018 2:13 AM

2018-09-01T02:13:35-04:00

As much as we would like to believe it and want it to be true, not every one is in the military because they love our great country and want to defend it "against all enemies, foreign and domestic". Many are there simply for the benefits, especially educational, with job training for the future secondary. In this day of the all-volunteer force, love of country should be first and foremost in t he minds of those who join.

Response by PO1 Randy Kohles made Sep 4 at 2018 12:47 PM

2018-09-04T12:47:55-04:00

The only unpopular opinion I have of the Military all branches is that at one time they allowed Transgendered people into the military. There is just no place in the military for these people.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Sep 12 at 2018 4:33 PM

2018-09-12T16:33:52-04:00

Free surgery for transgenders

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2018 1:39 AM

2018-10-01T01:39:10-04:00

I personally don’t have any radical or unpopular opinion concerning our Military. Just our political leaders whom can’t make a simple decision. Just damn make a decision and stick with it. Our Military is the best I’ve seen since the 1970’s. Yes, I’ve been around and then some. Semper Fi People.

Response by PFC Kevin Becker made Oct 1 at 2018 3:48 PM

2018-10-01T15:48:14-04:00

Duplication of assets. Let the Navy and Marine Air Wings handle ground support. Marines and Army handle typical infantry and artillery duties. Leave deep penetration air missions to the Air Force.

Response by LCpl Michael Cappello made Oct 5 at 2018 2:58 AM

2018-10-05T02:58:02-04:00

That the military should NOT be forced or even allowed to do gender reassignment procedures. Since ALL Marines share the basic mission of a rifleman, I could care less what gender you are. I could care less what gender you prefer to become, as long as it has ZERO negative impact on my beloved Corps and my brother and sister Marines. However, that choice is a very personal choice, and as such should be the responsibility of the person making that choice. The SOLE responsibility of that person. As a tax payer I do not feel that a person should be allowed to FRAUDULENTLY join the service in order to facilitate gender reassignment. Do it on your own time and on your own dime.

Response by CPL Justin Higgins made Oct 7 at 2018 10:21 PM

2018-10-07T22:21:57-04:00

It seems to me that the Army misrepresents itself in many ways. I only met soldiers who were patriotic about serving their country after I got out. Soldiers get treated like crap for no reason at all. There is so much pointless agony you have to go through that isn’t relevant to mission readiness. 50% of people I met in the Army were assholes that I didn’t like. You better lock your gear up I had a so many things stolen from me. Thievery is a huge problem, way more than in civilian life. I could go on and on. So much for honor, duty, and brotherhood while you are in the Army these things don’t seem to exist and you all know this is true.

Response by SGT Thomas Mitchell made Oct 17 at 2018 5:19 PM

2018-10-17T17:19:49-04:00

This military culture can, at times, be dysfunctional. Service members are there for varying periods of time. It is incumbent to protect subordinates from $%*( trickling down the chain of command as well as to protect superiors from $%*( backing up the chain of command. This is a part of keeping the faith.

Response by SSgt Bruce Probert made Oct 19 at 2018 7:36 PM

2018-10-19T19:36:25-04:00

As an Older Marine I remember how we were treated, it is nice that today's troops don't as a whole have to deal with that hostility. I am appalled at the appellation of hero to all who serve. None of us really knew what we were getting into when we enlisted, which diminished that "Act of Heroism" If you remember the moment that you first were shot at for real, you know that feeling.... The simple act of boarding a helicopter or aircraft heading into a potentially hot LZ is an act of courage. Each of us who have come under hostile fire has faced the very real realization of some one trying to kill us. Some men rise to extraordinary acts of courage, some survive them and others do not. It is a rare act that someone gives his life willingly, most are killed fighting the enemy, some never knew the battle was joined, so I resent the saying, "he sacrificed his life for his country" because the enemy took his life. If you don't understand what I'm talking about, nothing in your ordinary life will help you understand. We all live with our personal nightmares some are more haunted than others some have seen just too much. No one who has not been, there done that can possibly understand. Semper Fi my Brothers

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Oct 19 at 2018 11:55 PM

2018-10-19T23:55:39-04:00

SGT Joseph Gunderson Dare I say married Servicemen? I know, it reads Servicemen!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2018 12:30 PM

2018-10-20T12:30:04-04:00

Medical Holds in AIT should be given privileges!

Response by Maj John Bell made Oct 20 at 2018 12:36 PM

2018-10-20T12:36:00-04:00

I believe that US military forces should not be committed, with the exception of non-combatant evacuation operations, without a declaration of war. Once a declaration of war is made, the only acceptable outcome is for the enemy to surrender unconditionally, and the war should be fought in that context. Those nations that offer material support to our enemies should know that their interests and personnel in the combat theater are fair game and will be targeted as if they were enemy assets.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Oct 21 at 2018 8:57 AM

2018-10-21T08:57:08-04:00

I think we need to get away from untrained Soldiers and Untrained units fighting our battles.

Response by PO1 Don Mac Intyre made Oct 23 at 2018 8:40 PM

2018-10-23T20:40:28-04:00

Getting a Thanks isn't exactly being granted hero worship. I think 7% of the population Volunteered to serve in the Armed Forces, that kind of puts those that did step up just a bit elevated at least.

Response by SGT Gregory Tibbs made Oct 23 at 2018 9:08 PM

2018-10-23T21:08:58-04:00

is wasn't until recently that people started recognizing the military and thanking them for their service which I do not see a problem with. However I do have a problem with the state of Colorado being the only state that gives out the most military discounts which should be the same across the board because members of the military come from all over. As a matter of fact instead of just thanking military personnel for their service do something more to help them who are less fortunate than yourself because we only seem to matter when we are on active duty and forgotten after the fact.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Oct 29 at 2018 8:38 AM

2018-10-29T08:38:06-04:00

I would have to say deployments and transfers. While I was in years ago I had a few TDY’s and a couple of deployments but today’s force has had many under their belts. Too many. I saw a TV show where 1 Army guy had 6 Purple Hearts. I recall one friend complaining about a transfer to Maxwell AFB from Robins AFB. After 14 years ar Robins. At that time I had made approx 6 PCS’s. They may do it now,but I was never told what I needed to do for a promotion. I got you didn’t make it.. How can you get any where without knowing where you short falls are. I had the records, awards and had run a branch . What was next?

Response by SSG Dale London made Oct 31 at 2018 12:19 PM

2018-10-31T12:19:21-04:00

How about this: that to be able to vote, hold an elected position or serve in a political office you should have to serve at least two years in the military or equivalent. Also: that age should not be a bar to military service. Finally: that civilian contractors should not be allowed to do a job in place of the military that the military can do. This goes for everything from working a CIF, to security details to running a dining facility. Sole exceptions would be concessions like the PX/BX/NX, NCO/Chiefs/Officers Clubs, Comissary, Four Seasons, etc.

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Nov 4 at 2018 5:55 PM

2018-11-04T17:55:55-05:00

Bring back drumming out shitbirds, red line brigs and resume executing murderers, rapists, child molesters and traitors.

Response by LtCol Paul Bowen made Nov 5 at 2018 12:22 AM

2018-11-05T00:22:44-05:00

The Marine Corps is the largest collection of non-conformists in the Country.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Nov 24 at 2018 3:08 AM

2018-11-24T03:08:45-05:00

Respect those individuals who have earned their qualification badges. They worked hard to earn them and if you feel jealous, tough.

Response by LtCol Craig Covert made Dec 4 at 2018 7:27 PM

2018-12-04T19:27:21-05:00

That the VA should be reserved for the use of combat injured veterans and retirees only. Active duty service members have access to the military hospitals, as do reservists injured on active duty. If you are done with your time in the service and didn’t make it a career or weren’t injured in a conflict, find yourself a civilian health care provider and stop clogging up the system. The VA is broken - per a Special Agent wit the VA OIG, half of the people walking the halls are “one pump chumps” who either purposely committed fraud to enter the system, have faked PTSD, or had a service officer at their local VFW, American legion, Etc help them craft the wording for a non-service related injury to make it appear service related. Sorry Charlie, but just because you are a Vietnam era veteran who served one tour in the jungle without a Purple Heart, why are we paying for your diabetes 40 years later? Perhaps you shoulda held back on the daily box of Krispey Kremes, you lard butt! Sorry, but lifestyle injuries, be it hurting yourself in the weight room during or after service, poor health choices, or simply a certain “era” of service crowds out facilities that should be dedicated to Purple Heart winners and retirees only. Want to fix something in the VA? Change the rules, fire the fraud perpetrating service officers who tell you to get your free medical by crafting your story about your injury and stop the intentional attempts by every Discharge counselor who prompts you to think of every single injury you’ve had and somehow make it service related to “get your piece of the pie.” I don’t care if it occurred on active duty - if it’s not combat related and you aren’t medically retired, get a civilian health provider. It’s your choice to leave the service before retirement eligibility....You’re wasting my taxpayer dollars for claiming you are somehow disabled. Are you that guy who has had flat feet you’ve had since birth, yet still managed to turn it into a 10-20% lifetime payout? YOU are the reason the VA is broken. You should be ashamed!!!!

Response by SPC Jordan Sutich made Dec 5 at 2018 1:08 AM

2018-12-05T01:08:14-05:00

It's way more easy to get through now. The pay is much better... (my opinion)

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Dec 19 at 2018 6:56 PM

2018-12-19T18:56:56-05:00

That our services are being traded and used for the wrong purposes. We are a bargaining chip to be used in cementing an agreement. Especially when there is no real legitimate reason for our presence there?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2018 10:17 AM

2018-12-21T10:17:44-05:00

Neglecting to provide Soldiers with training relevant to their MOS and only run countless WTBD's and then wondering why you have people in your ranks who are not proficient in their jobs. Yes, WTBD's are essential to basic function of being a Soldier and conducting combat. However, straight up neglecting or refusing to resource relevant MOS training can be equally detrimental to a Soldier's readiness.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2018 9:26 PM

2018-12-28T21:26:35-05:00

Mandatory “fun runs” are the opposite of fun.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2019 5:46 PM

2019-01-14T17:46:49-05:00

I enjoyed the omelette with cheese MRE.....when it was warm

Response by PO2 Steven Earl made Jan 15 at 2019 4:54 PM

2019-01-15T16:54:14-05:00

Man, that's a tough one. I guess it would be that people are people, no matter the uniform or flag. I discovered that people did not shed their culture or upbringing when entering the service. If you were a racist at home, you are now a racist in a uniform.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2019 1:42 PM

2019-06-12T13:42:06-04:00

I remember when the Army experimented with "stress cards" in basic training. Really? If you can't handle being yelled and cursed at, how in the heck are you going to handle a combat situation? GEEZ!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2020 2:34 AM

2020-04-18T02:34:55-04:00

That the military has become a defunct/corrupt welfare system.

Response by SGT Herbert Bollum made Apr 30 at 2020 2:32 PM

2020-04-30T14:32:31-04:00

If the ARMY wanted you to have an opinion they would have issued you one.

Response by Wayne Soares made Nov 7 at 2020 4:58 PM

2020-11-07T16:58:33-05:00

Thanks for the question brother joe

Response by Cpl James R. " Jim" Gossett Jr made Jun 17 at 2021 7:38 PM

2021-06-17T19:38:49-04:00

It's not what it used to be in the 60's

Response by A1C Chris Pointer made Jul 3 at 2021 12:58 AM

2021-07-03T00:58:52-04:00

Just because you attain a certain rank or leadership position doesn’t mean you deserve it

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2021 1:54 AM

2021-07-08T01:54:07-04:00

That many Soldiers in Leadership positions will crush your career if felt threatened that you are more stellar than they are. That, and also that "Soulfood Sunday" at the DFAC is no longer a thing. Was the best day to eat at the DFAC.