What's One Thing That Makes or Breaks a Military Career? Share and Be Entered to Win!

2021-09-14T09:11:16-04:00

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Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Sep 14 at 2021 9:28 AM

2021-09-14T09:28:55-04:00

thanks for sharing.

Response by LTC John Shaw made Sep 14 at 2021 9:33 AM

2021-09-14T09:33:20-04:00

Serving in key leader positions and showing that you can handle the difficult decision making while keeping your mission, unit and soldier's interests in balance.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2021 9:53 AM

2021-09-14T09:53:18-04:00

Leadership. Any tour of duty depends upon one's leaders. If it is toxic, one might never recover or reenlist.

Response by PO3 Rick Lewis made Sep 14 at 2021 11:28 AM

2021-09-14T11:28:20-04:00

ATTITUDE!

Response by SN Kristi Kalis made Sep 14 at 2021 1:43 PM

2021-09-14T13:43:37-04:00

Trust. If you don't trust those above you, you can't do your job well. If you don't trust those below you, the mission will fail.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2021 8:32 PM

2021-09-14T20:32:49-04:00

Choose your rate, choose your fate. If you want to be in long term and advance, you might have to sacrifice what you're familiar with to go down another path that offers opportunity.

Response by SGT Leonard Frank made Sep 15 at 2021 1:54 PM

2021-09-15T13:54:35-04:00

I was a reservist, our promotion system is much or was much different than regulars. I had all it took to make SGT just before we left for D Shield, and I was stonewalled. I was an independent contractor which meant army pay was our entire income. So the promotion would have been very helpful. One time at the end of a formation with over 200 soldiers making noise talking, giving section orders etc, I went up to our wimpy MAJ and the two Sgt Majors and ask the commander who do I have to B**W to get a promotion MAJ HUH? what did he say? Nice SGT M smirking mean one growling, well I answer, he says again HUH? did he say what I think? mean S M It is loud out here sir and I am sure you did not and I am sure he will be sorry if he repeats it. Never had so much before going off to eat sand for a year. That my friends is dead end career progression. Ironically at the end and we had to stay way past the war theGeneral over their gave all E1 -E4 a one rank promotion, end of the war but better than a stick in the eye

Response by SPC Roger Opfer made Sep 15 at 2021 3:12 PM

2021-09-15T15:12:17-04:00

After three years in the Army right out of high school. I thought I would give civilian life a shot. I like the small town atmosphere an being around my family an the closeness. I knew I could re-enlist or join the Reserve if I didn't like civilian life. I should have join the Reserves but waited to long. It's been ok, Life is what you make of it. One thing I'm very happy with. Is joining the military. It was a meaningful part of my life that most people don't have. Weather we knew it or not, it helped us mature mentally & physically & for some more spiritually.

Response by PO3 Patrick Chavis made Sep 15 at 2021 6:28 PM

2021-09-15T18:28:14-04:00

Who you know will get you way farther than what you know. Knowing the right people opens doors so much faster

Response by CPL Ty Martin made Sep 15 at 2021 7:41 PM

2021-09-15T19:41:06-04:00

Leadership and their respect. you cannot continue to beat the dog and ask the dog to stick around. Had it not been for the E-7 acting first sergeant's constant harassment, I would have enjoyed my military career. Sometimes it is better to just walk away. One of the worst decisions of my life. Although, I must admit, my Irish temper played a part as well.

Response by SSgt William (Bill) Pangrass made Sep 15 at 2021 7:55 PM

2021-09-15T19:55:09-04:00

The ability to listen and learn

Response by PO1 Autumn Winters made Sep 15 at 2021 8:16 PM

2021-09-15T20:16:07-04:00

As the song goes, "You gotta know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, know when to run."

_That_ is a lesson I'm still learning. I never held 'em as much as I should've and I walked away from far too much.

Granted, I served in a different era, when it was a "crime" to be out as anything under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella, so I was on my way out already (wanting to be _me_ rather than having to be very careful about keeping masks in place. So in one sense, the answer is tolerance. Not just now when we can tolerate and accept people that are different, but how much you can tolerate living a role that doesn't fit.

If you don't know your limits -- when you should hold, fold, walk, or run -- success will be much harder to grasp and much easier to lose.

Response by SFC Joseph A. Anderson made Sep 15 at 2021 8:46 PM

2021-09-15T20:46:25-04:00

Integrity. What are you willing to overlook? When you see something that is wrong, do you look the other way, or do you speak up? I for one, spoke up. Did not make me popular, kept me from getting promoted for sometime, but in the end it was all worth it. I was able to retire and say I did the right thing when it counted. People that cheated were held accountable, some went to prison, some were discharged dishonorably, and some received punishment deserving of their misdeed. Some were told to retire. Satisfaction in some cases because of the intimidation of the higher up trying to get you to do something after you told them it wouldn't work. Didn't matter who. What mattered was the right thing to do. So I would say that would make or break your career.

Response by PO2 Justin James made Sep 15 at 2021 8:46 PM

2021-09-15T20:46:43-04:00

Some of the harder training in the military has a high attrition simply due to a person's mindset. The negative thinkers tend to rub off on others and they are usually the first to fail.

Response by PO2 Rick Oswald made Sep 15 at 2021 8:50 PM

2021-09-15T20:50:11-04:00

Pretty decent career options if you decide to stay serving or work for the federal government in the future.

Response by MSG James Reynolds made Sep 15 at 2021 8:53 PM

2021-09-15T20:53:33-04:00

Asking leaders, "Who succeeds in my position?" Leaders like to talk and when the answer this question, listen to their leadership philosophy and be resilient with it..

Response by MSgt Sara Schweppe made Sep 15 at 2021 9:07 PM

2021-09-15T21:07:19-04:00

Your attitude will make or break your military career! Having a positive attitude does not mean having a smile from ear to ear all day long, it is not about seeing the canteen half full, it is much more. With an optimistic mindset, when things are heading south quickly, your mind allows you to see the world with clarity and the tribulations become less egregious. Having a positive mind makes a soldier receptive towards in information. As Benjamin Franklin once said, "Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain as most fools do." Negative people will take immense pleasure in criticizing the mission.

Response by SPC Dana Young made Sep 15 at 2021 10:22 PM

2021-09-15T22:22:25-04:00

Family/family support is a definite career determinant. With me as a mother being pregnant with my 5th child and having a child who was entering high school diagnosed with ADHD, I realized I had to make the most important decision of my life. It was my family or my career. I had to examine the pros and the cons, considering advancement and retirement in my career. I also had to accept exam the pros and cons of the sacrifices I was making. I have been out of the military now 7.5 years and I don't regret my decision.
Dana Y.

Response by SGT Matt Saunders made Sep 15 at 2021 10:35 PM

2021-09-15T22:35:21-04:00

Attitude. A good positive attitude not only helps you get through whatever task or situation placed before you but others see it too. I know it may sound corny but it helps a unit to bond & function as 1. A bad attitude will have the opposite effect. Plus your chain of command will definitely see it. Why draw attention to yourself for all the wrong reasons then, of course, say it's everyone else's fault you get in trouble or don't get promoted.

Response by Maj Gary Ewers made Sep 15 at 2021 10:46 PM

2021-09-15T22:46:45-04:00

In the USMC anyway, homesteading, or planting yourself at one duty station fir more than three years can kill your career. I spent 8 years at Edwards AFB and I’m convinced it kept me from attaining O-5.

Response by Lindsay Bond made Sep 15 at 2021 10:47 PM

2021-09-15T22:47:52-04:00

Cancer

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2021 10:55 PM

2021-09-15T22:55:05-04:00

Attitude and MOS continuing PME. Soldier, Airmen, Sailors and Marines have PME courses available to them and should avail themselves to these free courses. Some are through correspondence, online or in class attendance. Points are awarded for each course successfully completed toward retirement and promotion.

Response by SSG Kendra McWain made Sep 15 at 2021 11:10 PM

2021-09-15T23:10:18-04:00

Attitude. A negative attitude is disruptive to team cohesion. It also hinders job performance. A positive attitude, on the other hand, seriously improves performance, cooperation, and success for you and your team.
We all have bad days and negativity will happen. Communication with your leaders and peers can help relieve the pressure of the negative issues so you can still be successful.

Response by SGT Ralph Shorter made Sep 15 at 2021 11:20 PM

2021-09-15T23:20:11-04:00

Leadership. If a Vet is not a part of the CLIQUE, then they will NOT be promoted. If they use the IG, then they are screwed even though the Command is supposed to search and assist a Vet in problems that are FACT, but nothing is ever done to complete the process the Vet is needing.

Response by PFC Jennifer Hendricks made Sep 15 at 2021 11:32 PM

2021-09-15T23:32:52-04:00

Respect. It goes both ways. You have to respect your chain of command. But those below you must also respect you. And this starts inside. If you don’t respect yourself, no one else will. And if you don’t respect yourself you can’t respect those in authority.

Response by SPC Timothy Marlow made Sep 16 at 2021 2:45 AM

2021-09-16T02:45:37-04:00

Lack of Motivation!

Response by Capt William Norton made Sep 16 at 2021 3:57 AM

2021-09-16T03:57:28-04:00

As a 2ndLt just graduated from flight training, my assignment was Pilot F4C pipeline southeast Asia. I was paired with a Captain as my Aircraft Commander. I was soon due for my first OER and the Captain as my Commander had to wright it. This was first OER and he had known me for 2 months and he gave me a 9-7. Said it was a favor as it gave me "room to grow". Later, with a glut of Captains and few Major slots, a 7 rating in your file was a "kiss of death" and with "up or out' in force, I was out.

Response by CPT David Gowel made Sep 16 at 2021 6:21 AM

2021-09-16T06:21:44-04:00

Makes: a consistent leadership style focused on using your rank to support the success of your subordinates.
Breaks: the opposite of ^.

Response by SGT Bill Braniff made Sep 16 at 2021 6:53 AM

2021-09-16T06:53:14-04:00

I am a Vietnam Veteran, combat Tet 1968. From our point of view the one make and or break item would be continued combat in close areas like Vietnam. As far as todays Military I would have to say the number of deployments firstly.

Response by MCPO Gary Frady made Sep 16 at 2021 8:23 AM

2021-09-16T08:23:19-04:00

Discipline! During our military career we must be versed in rules and regulations in order keep ourselves disciplined as well as holding our peers and subordinates accountable.

Response by Sgt Eric Akey made Sep 16 at 2021 8:51 AM

2021-09-16T08:51:04-04:00

The ability to improvise, adapt, and overcome your future obstacles and life's challenges the day you walk away from your military career, whether that's 4 years or 20.

When the time comes for you too join the ranks of millions as a veteran you then take on the greatest risk yet. The term "battle buddy" seems to fade. The guidelines and information pushed from the top ceases. The phrase "welcome to the suck" just got real. You will have your family still, military brotherhood never walks away as your family at home. The hardest part is allowing them to be apart of that every day mentality of following rules and procedures set in place or having your family try to understand why your anger flares up first thing in morning when you haven't even talked to anyone yet. Your body starts to weaken quickly as it's not use to the go, go, go everyday routine and for that you start to break down faster and faster. Everyday abuse that your soul accepted from training finally is now a whole new demon.

The thing I personally have gathered from watching my brothers get out and then check out of 1st civ div early unfortunately is that everything in the Marine Corps is handed to you on a gold platter. As a young fresh Marine RO to a sqd leader with 2/4 then rounding out my 8 years as a MWTC instructor I didn't have to do all the leg work when it came to life. What I mean is.....
Paperwork - check
Vehicles - check
Food - check
Living quarters - check.

And list goes on.

So as Marines we are highly educated with a butt pack of useless knowledge but when it comes to applying it in the real world it comes up short in a lot of areas. We as Marines start to feel misjudged or misunderstood. We start putting more guilt of why can't I get this right? I want to be the best I can for everyone around me. Failure isn't an option and if we somehow feel as if we failed then getting help is the single most hardest thing to do. Realizing and recognizing there's a problem is ultimately the most challenging. In some cases taking away the issue, aka ME will allow others to love they're life without the hassle of dealing with my frustrations or complaints or mentality then becomes a win in our brains for our family. But truth be told it's not. And even though I can type it on here no problems, knowing that I'm not completely failing here with my family is another. Dealing with the outside world and being an adult and taking responsibility of paying bills or making calls, being protector of family while maintaining house chores or work schedules is now on you and that sounds petty and we'll get over it but the bottom line is vets do get over it.....they die.

My answer is long and drawn out more than likely and I could explain in person in 5 mins and cover more but to improvise, adapt and overcome your future obstacles as a civilian dealing with everyday life would be my answer. Without victory everything in your career is irrelevant if you fail. It would ultimately break your military career or being a one mind, any weapon type of Marine.

Stay strong brothers

Semper fidelis

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2021 11:50 AM

2021-09-16T11:50:46-04:00

Attitude and adaptability.

Response by PO2 Russell "Russ" Lincoln made Sep 16 at 2021 12:08 PM

2021-09-16T12:08:29-04:00

Integrity of the service member and the command.

Response by SN Harry Conrad made Sep 16 at 2021 12:12 PM

2021-09-16T12:12:55-04:00

Attitude

Response by SSG Rafael R. Rodriguez Sr. made Sep 16 at 2021 1:41 PM

2021-09-16T13:41:47-04:00

One thing that can break your military career is how you carry yourself. You can have a High Level Security Clearance like a TS/SCI and have to be very careful when drinking among your buddies and don't spill details about your job and what you do! Also, you have to make your that you are always in good standing with your creditworthiness. A slight blemish can either determine to downgrade your security clearance, or a change in your MOS.

Response by CMSgt Alan Yoshida made Sep 16 at 2021 2:28 PM

2021-09-16T14:28:17-04:00

What's One Thing That Makes or Breaks a Military Career? In my opinion attitude is what makes or breaks any career. If you feel you can do anything then the odds are you will go far becasue you will try to accomplish things opposed to sitting back and hoping things will work out. Life is what you make it and the unit will always benifit from a bunch of people who have good attitudes and try to take the unit to the next level.

Response by CPO Deborah Simmons made Sep 16 at 2021 2:34 PM

2021-09-16T14:34:20-04:00

Leadership. Everyone can't lead. Leading is about trust. If you don't have that, your people is just going through the motion because they have to. Good leadership turns into trust your people will have your back as you will have theirs.

Response by COL David Lowry made Sep 16 at 2021 3:41 PM

2021-09-16T15:41:31-04:00

As an enlisted service member, make your career by adding value to the organization. Be a great team member. As an officer, make your career by mentoring your subordinates and providing for their welfare and professional development. In turn, your subordinates will support and take care of you. As Texas Bix Bender said, "You can pretend to care, but you can't pretend to be there." A career can be quickly broken by lapses in integrity (only you can compromise your integrity), indebtedness, and other violations of the UCMJ. Bender also said, "Never miss an opportunity to shut up." When you do speak, make your comments count. Be brief. If you are looking for a great book on leadership try "Start With Humility", by Merwyn Hayes.

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Sep 16 at 2021 4:34 PM

2021-09-16T16:34:58-04:00

Honor, truth, and upholding the very oath you took to the US Constitution without reservation, politics or bias. THIS is what makes or breaks a US Military career, regardless if you are just a E1 doing mundane things, a E5 with your first command of people or an officer leading many. Your honor and your oath are what will determine your career.

And today more than ever, I hope and pray most still active duty, remember what their oath means and they choose to stand by it and not allow a few in power to dictate or ignore the very thing we are sworn to uphold. Just because something is an order, does not make it right, legal, Constitutional. And if it is not legal, moral or Constitutional, your HONOR demands you take a stand.

Response by SGT Daniel Harvey made Sep 16 at 2021 5:15 PM

2021-09-16T17:15:58-04:00

Attitude! In your country , the military, your men and yourself! lack of one will cause you to fail in being a career soldier. First off you have to love your country even if you don't believe in what decision has been made, You have to make a full commitment to the military in all that it is and stands for, You have to be dedicated to the men and women you serve with and know you will have their back as you are counting on them to have yours, You have to have the commitment to yourself to do your duty to God and Country no matter what you face

Response by MCPO Hilary Kunz made Sep 16 at 2021 7:46 PM

2021-09-16T19:46:00-04:00

One thing? Read and understand the directions, then act on them with confidence. As a speed reader I managed to become in charge behind the scenes in boot camp, which carried forward to “A” school. Once in the Fleet I continued that, getting special and challenging assignments that made me stand out for advancement, while reading everything I could, chasing every qualification I could.

Response by SSG Rick Miller made Sep 17 at 2021 7:18 AM

2021-09-17T07:18:10-04:00

Toxic leadership, and how you react to it. I've seen that kind of leadership drain every last bit of morale from everyone who suffered under it. I've also seen that kind of leader get relieved for cause, so it cuts both ways.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Sep 17 at 2021 2:14 PM

2021-09-17T14:14:59-04:00

Thank you for the information!

Response by SGT James Gish made Sep 17 at 2021 6:59 PM

2021-09-17T18:59:48-04:00

The good old boy club. If you are in it, you’ll move up easily. If you aren’t, you won’t. Fact.

Response by SGT James Gish made Sep 17 at 2021 7:00 PM

2021-09-17T19:00:25-04:00

Leadership or the lack there of.

Response by SPC George Allen made Sep 18 at 2021 11:03 PM

2021-09-18T23:03:14-04:00

Attitude, Integrity, Respect, Military bearing and above all else do your job like you are trying to be the best in the Army. Be willing to help anyone that wants it.

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made Sep 18 at 2021 11:20 PM

2021-09-18T23:20:25-04:00

An alcohol or drug related incident

Response by SGT Jonathan Persons made Sep 18 at 2021 11:21 PM

2021-09-18T23:21:20-04:00

A break in my book is the inability to earn the respect of your soldiers because you do not fight for them when they are in the right.

Response by PO1 James Akins made Sep 19 at 2021 3:44 AM

2021-09-19T03:44:43-04:00

There's one thing that could both make or break a military career and it is called personal "Sacrifice", that means what is a person willing to give up to make a career serving in the military. This depends on a lot of factors and each one of must decide what they are willing to sacrifice to make a career out of the military.

Response by SSG James Liska made Sep 20 at 2021 12:06 AM

2021-09-20T00:06:12-04:00

Family support. Tough to stay in when the family wants out.

Response by MAJ Chet Heidl made Sep 20 at 2021 2:55 AM

2021-09-20T02:55:35-04:00

Attitude!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 20 at 2021 12:49 PM

2021-09-20T12:49:28-04:00

Always do the right thing. Trust is everything and one’s word should be gold.

Response by PO3 Kenn Andrus made Sep 20 at 2021 3:14 PM

2021-09-20T15:14:28-04:00

To be blunt, knowing whose but to kiss and whose not to kiss. You can be the best leader in the world but if you get on the wrong side of someone in the chain of advancement, you'll go nowhere.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2021 6:28 PM

2021-09-20T18:28:32-04:00

Your owns smarts. To expand on that, your ability to learn and adapt to changes around you. Grow with people and to learn. If you don't have the "smarts", both street and book, you won't make it.

Response by CW3 John Himes made Sep 21 at 2021 2:49 PM

2021-09-21T14:49:14-04:00

Good leadership makes a military career. Poor leadership will break a career. I was blest to serve under some great leaders both at the small unit level and at division level. in my 20+ years I only served under two poor leaders, one a battery commander and the other a brigade commander. The brigade commander never made general, and the battery commander end up retiring as a major. In one sense you might say the system worked weeding our bad leaders. I wonder, however, how many good soldiers, and good leaders, those two men stop from making the Army a career.

Response by Sgt Christian Mendieta made Sep 21 at 2021 6:44 PM

2021-09-21T18:44:32-04:00

Working on promotions, or not working on your promotion. This is something that always has to be on your mind, or you are frozen in your career and can eventually even get pushed out like I was. It was a mistake I made that I regret.

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Sep 21 at 2021 10:07 PM

2021-09-21T22:07:42-04:00

Never shirking from the military values we swore to. NEVER!!!!!!!!

Response by PO2 Jack Steiner made Sep 22 at 2021 1:11 PM

2021-09-22T13:11:06-04:00

The persons attitude.

Response by AN Daniel C Begay made Sep 22 at 2021 10:47 PM

2021-09-22T22:47:16-04:00

True comradeship- knowing your unit has your back, helps you achieve your best and encourages growth.

Response by SSgt Donald Hahn made Sep 23 at 2021 12:48 AM

2021-09-23T00:48:37-04:00

100% with Sgt. Reynolds

Response by Sgt Michael Valgos made Sep 23 at 2021 4:39 AM

2021-09-23T04:39:26-04:00

To have the initiative to take charge of a situation showing your knowledge skill and leadership and showing that you can get it done even under pressure

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2021 5:30 AM

2021-09-23T05:30:03-04:00

I joined as a Supply Clerk and quickly found out I didn’t like sitting behind a desk all the time, so I changed my MOS to Combat Engineer. Best decision I ever made. The job you do is critical to deciding how long you want to stay in. I guess you’d call that “attitude”. The Engineer job I did required a TS/BI clearance and the units I served in had the best leaders compared to what I experienced in an Infantry BDE. In 1988, the job I was doing as an Engineer evaporated and I found myself in an Artillery unit. Their motto was “On the Minute” but what it should have been was “in a minute”. Worst leadership structure I’d ever seen, which prompted me to go Reserve instead of re enlisting Active. I did the Reserve thing the rest of my career. I had an opportunity to make E8, but Top wanted me to get behind another desk and I chose not to.

What makes or breaks a career is to answer what are you willing to do to keep it. I retired with 36 plus years. Half was active, half was reserve. My best time was with the Engineer units I served with and I guess that’s mainly why I stayed in so long. So, Leadership is a key factor, but your attitude is high on that list as well - in my opinion.

Response by CW2 Michael Bodnar made Sep 23 at 2021 10:25 AM

2021-09-23T10:25:36-04:00

I think there are many ways to tackle this question. I think first and foremost is someone's desire to serve. Being in the military is not for everyone but there are those individuals that want to serve their country and answer the call when needed.

Response by SGT Kevin Taber made Sep 23 at 2021 1:18 PM

2021-09-23T13:18:41-04:00

Common sense. It's not too common any more tho

Response by Maj Ross Webster made Sep 23 at 2021 1:22 PM

2021-09-23T13:22:28-04:00

INTEGRITY

Response by Cpl Diana Thompson made Sep 23 at 2021 1:25 PM

2021-09-23T13:25:16-04:00

Indiscretion.

Response by PVT Michele Bowman made Sep 23 at 2021 1:27 PM

2021-09-23T13:27:52-04:00

I think the one thing that will break a military career is one is not very determined. You cannot join the military just on a whim you have to know your why, stay on course with your why, be determined in your why and give it all you have for your why!! Determination is key. Your why will make you humble yourself, your why will show you how brave you can be, your why will teach you discipline, your why will make you strong in areas you were weak in and your why will grow you up.

Response by SSG Manny Acuna made Sep 23 at 2021 1:30 PM

2021-09-23T13:30:53-04:00

Egos... Keep that stuff in check if you don't people will die or get hurt, and there's always a respectful way to be heard and if it's good top brass or top stripes will listen.

Response by Dara Euson made Sep 23 at 2021 1:35 PM

2021-09-23T13:35:05-04:00

So I am not affiliated with the military, however I would like to thank all that are serving and have served! My grandfather (who's now past on) was a WWII vet and I never learned until more recently, just the amount of selfishness within the military. Unfortunately, I'm starting to see a lack in leadership, and the many mandatory requirements. I know first hand that my husband was not accepted by many areas he applied in. But only because of background questions from when he was in his early youth, but as well as him having to many visible tattoos, to his mental history background also. I feel like had they really taken the time with his application, he too would be serving our country as he had hoped.
I know there's so much misinformation with so much going on in our country, but until my last breath I would support our military to the fullest, regardless of their lack of leadership as each one of these men and women in service are human beings, just like us, and I can't bare hearing the life long traumas they ultimately end up suffering, as well as many other negative impacts being in the military could do to a person. We need to be grateful, even if they are advised on doing something, doesn't mean they agree, it's just them trying to provide for their family as well!

Response by SFC Dennis Brandon made Sep 23 at 2021 1:40 PM

2021-09-23T13:40:17-04:00

Unethical behavior.

Response by SPC Bryon Ganson made Sep 23 at 2021 1:51 PM

2021-09-23T13:51:25-04:00

A competent and supportive chain of command 100%.

Response by SSgt Lanny Fisher made Sep 23 at 2021 1:54 PM

2021-09-23T13:54:12-04:00

Patience...LOTS of patience.........

Response by AA Elena Giordano made Sep 23 at 2021 1:55 PM

2021-09-23T13:55:36-04:00

The level of corruption within leadership… Have leaders with no moral compass when you’re reporting sexual assault? Your career and everything you’ve worked for - not to mention your mental health, future career options, and hope for any justice - is toast.

Response by CMSgt Vince Mee made Sep 23 at 2021 2:01 PM

2021-09-23T14:01:20-04:00

Integrity

Response by SGT Ed Greenslit made Sep 23 at 2021 2:01 PM

2021-09-23T14:01:59-04:00

Breaks—drugs, DWI, assault

Makes- initiative, people/leadership skills

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2021 2:02 PM

2021-09-23T14:02:40-04:00

Covid vaccination.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2021 2:10 PM

2021-09-23T14:10:17-04:00

Failing the whizz quiz. ...
Taking one drug to hide another. ...
Getting too drunk to remember what happened. ...
Sex with someone who's underage. ...
Sexting using a government phone. ...
Playing fast and loose with marital status. ...
Solving an argument with a fist. ...
Failure to be not fat.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2021 2:19 PM

2021-09-23T14:19:27-04:00

Promotions vs Responsibility - What is meant by that is Senior NCOs are only looked at for promotion once a year and even then, no "description" or "list of requirements" of what is being looked at. I mean, i knew an E7 who had 3 Combat tours, received his Masters and Bachelors in two different disciplines (One being Criminal Justice) , been passed over at least 5 times, had served as a Detachment NCO, Squad Leader, Assist. Platoon Sergeant and a Platoon Sergeant. It gets very frustrating to be tasked into these different job descriptions and receive little to no recognition. I, myself, was passed over for E8 on at least 6 occasions without an explanation of what i could do better/ needed for the next grade. Now, I've been retired for almost 5 years and some of the Soldiers I've served with (who i keep in contact with) are complaining about the same thing.

Response by SP5 Walter Anderson made Sep 23 at 2021 2:40 PM

2021-09-23T14:40:14-04:00

Absolute obedience

Response by SFC Scott Higgins made Sep 23 at 2021 2:46 PM

2021-09-23T14:46:49-04:00

Education.
You need to keep learning; for your job performance, your promotion potential, your understanding of mission requirements and interpersonal relations.
Educate yourself, keep learning. If you rest, you rust.

Response by PO1 Ricky Allen made Sep 23 at 2021 3:12 PM

2021-09-23T15:12:14-04:00

The one thing that makes or breaks a career is conditioning. What do I mean?
There are three things you need to learn immediately:
1. Get to work on time. That includes meetings, Quarters, etc…
2. Look good. Square that uniform up so that you’re sharp.
3. Be nice. So many people think kindness is overrated. It created opportunities for me.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2021 3:45 PM

2021-09-23T15:45:44-04:00

Response by SPC John Tsutsui made Sep 23 at 2021 3:49 PM

2021-09-23T15:49:59-04:00

For me simply put it would be leadership, self dedication to duty and respect.

Response by LCpl Kevin Bryson made Sep 23 at 2021 4:01 PM

2021-09-23T16:01:48-04:00

An open mind can make not only your military career but also heighten your experiences. Unwillingness to adapt will certainly lessen, if not break your military career.

Response by SSG Donald Kuhns made Sep 23 at 2021 4:53 PM

2021-09-23T16:53:40-04:00

Honesty - Granted I did retire but I took a huge break in service because my senior leadership was not honest with me. They assigned me out of my high security G2 position and slotted me in a G1 officer management position claiming there were no open slots for my rank/mos in the HQ. It didn't take long for me to fond out that it was a out right lie. Because of this I lost interest and did not reenlist. 3.5 years later I reentered the service. If they had been honest at the time and given an eta to when I would be slotted correctly, I most likely would have stayed in.

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Sep 23 at 2021 5:00 PM

2021-09-23T17:00:54-04:00

Integrity and honesty, without them you are a follower not a leader. If you are a leader and do not have them, no one will follow you!

Response by PO1 Ron Littrell made Sep 23 at 2021 5:09 PM

2021-09-23T17:09:21-04:00

Fitness

Response by PO2 Paul Dempsey made Sep 23 at 2021 5:19 PM

2021-09-23T17:19:12-04:00

Motivation

Response by Dieudonne Magloire Kamga made Sep 23 at 2021 5:54 PM

2021-09-23T17:54:38-04:00

For my part, I believe that it is our right to provide ethical and moral guidelines in order to bring our compatriots to understand the merits of the fight we are waging. for our country remains and remains the undisputed leader of the countries on across the planet

Response by 2ndLt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2021 5:54 PM

2021-09-23T17:54:55-04:00

Leadership! 100% it makes the biggest difference

Response by Lt Col John Plaza made Sep 23 at 2021 6:09 PM

2021-09-23T18:09:43-04:00

Character. It can do both.....unfortunately.
Character is the habit of doing the right thing even though no one will know……or everyone will know. It’s having the courage to do what’s right even though it’s difficult, painful, or costly. It’s doing the right thing even though you know you will not be recognized, thanked or rewarded and might even suffer as a result.

A person of character does the right thing solely because it is right. They do not seek acclaim, award, or rank.…..they do it because they care about others and the community they live in.

Our character is engraved upon us by consistently making choices using this guidance.

Regardless, I recommend a life of character even if it doesn't always further your military career......you can look at the person in the mirror with pride and satisfaction.

Response by Cpl Greg Hernandez made Sep 23 at 2021 6:20 PM

2021-09-23T18:20:16-04:00

Marriage

Response by CPL Larry Monkus made Sep 23 at 2021 6:24 PM

2021-09-23T18:24:47-04:00

you have a right way and a military way

Response by CPL Larry Monkus made Sep 23 at 2021 6:25 PM

2021-09-23T18:25:33-04:00

you have a right way and a military way

Response by LTC John Mcavoy made Sep 23 at 2021 7:04 PM

2021-09-23T19:04:46-04:00

Not being politically correct.

Response by SPC Lawrence Kader made Sep 23 at 2021 7:05 PM

2021-09-23T19:05:46-04:00

Family approval and backing, I got married right after deployment to my permanent station ft Bragg and after 2 weeks all I heard was I want to go home to be near my parents, finally I gave in 3 years later and got out but that wasn't good enough she left me 3 months after getting out I wanted to re enlist but 2months later I was in a bad vehicle accident that left me medically unfit for service to this day I regret getting out.

Response by PFC Julie McLean made Sep 23 at 2021 7:26 PM

2021-09-23T19:26:49-04:00

A feeling of purpose.

Response by SrA Joe Martin made Sep 23 at 2021 7:41 PM

2021-09-23T19:41:24-04:00

Dedication is the key. It is necessary to overcome any challenge that you may face. It is needed to devote the time and attention to building the career.

Response by SGT Peter Schaefer made Sep 23 at 2021 9:00 PM

2021-09-23T21:00:58-04:00

An injury can take you out no matter your level of expertise or drive. I had a parachute landing mishap and hurt my back early in my career. I fought for almost 7 years to prevent getting discharged before I ran out of options. Although being in the 82nd ended my career, it's one of the best experiences of my life.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2021 9:46 PM

2021-09-23T21:46:02-04:00

A good mentor early in your career

Response by SP5 Derick Johnsohne made Sep 23 at 2021 9:56 PM

2021-09-23T21:56:23-04:00

one's drive to succeed and ways to show it .

Response by SSG Conrad Sylvestrelamb made Sep 23 at 2021 10:19 PM

2021-09-23T22:19:24-04:00

Time management

Response by BG Mike Bridges made Sep 24 at 2021 1:20 AM

2021-09-24T01:20:24-04:00

Motivation to your oath of enlistment or commission and all that it means.

Response by SSG Leon Laprade made Sep 24 at 2021 3:04 AM

2021-09-24T03:04:06-04:00

Attitude.

Response by SSG(P) D. Wright Downs made Sep 24 at 2021 11:38 AM

2021-09-24T11:38:50-04:00

Flexibility As an enlisted person and an NCO one has to be able to be flexible, to be able to bend to the situation as required.

Response by PFC Michael Lewis made Sep 24 at 2021 6:58 PM

2021-09-24T18:58:46-04:00

Not learning to play the game

Response by SGT Robert Eddy made Sep 24 at 2021 7:48 PM

2021-09-24T19:48:03-04:00

Being wounded in combat and permanently disabled did it.

Response by PO1 Gary Bell made Sep 25 at 2021 9:36 AM

2021-09-25T09:36:23-04:00

Stable home life.

Response by SSG Franklin Briant made Sep 25 at 2021 1:56 PM

2021-09-25T13:56:56-04:00

Discipline is the key to a long and successful career. Without discipline you will not survive teh military.

Response by CPL LeChonne Wright made Sep 25 at 2021 4:05 PM

2021-09-25T16:05:33-04:00

Racism. MST

Response by CMSgt William Wilson made Sep 25 at 2021 8:16 PM

2021-09-25T20:16:37-04:00

The ability to quickly ajust to any and all situations.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 25 at 2021 10:21 PM

2021-09-25T22:21:09-04:00

Losing sensitive items. When a unit leaves an area they need to do a hands on sensitive items inspection. When they arrive at a new location they need to conduct another hands on inspection.

Response by SSG Michael D. made Sep 26 at 2021 1:26 AM

2021-09-26T01:26:46-04:00

A permanent profile for a mental health diagnosis is a career ender because you are no longer deployable. The status also ensures you will no longer be a candidate for promotion.

Response by SN Linda Darlington made Sep 26 at 2021 10:49 PM

2021-09-26T22:49:25-04:00

Recruiter Integrity! Mine lied to me and didn’t process me in as an officer like I deserved. I spent most of my reserve contract IRR until it expired. I couldn’t rerate, transfer branches, or reenlist. Had everything gone the way I planned, I’d still be serving.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2021 6:43 PM

2021-09-29T18:43:30-04:00

Attitude, trust, decision making and leadership can make or break your career.

Response by FN Mark Jewett made Sep 29 at 2021 7:29 PM

2021-09-29T19:29:04-04:00

When politics is allowed to drive. The only loyalty is to the constitution of the United States, not a political point of view

Response by Maj June Shaffer made Sep 29 at 2021 10:16 PM

2021-09-29T22:16:46-04:00

Maj June Shaffer - Not being a white man or a "girly woman"! As an assertive Asian American I didn't fit the stereotype. But living long and being retired is the best antidote.

Response by CPT Timothy Holden made Sep 29 at 2021 10:38 PM

2021-09-29T22:38:49-04:00

too much deployment

Response by SA Bob Thompson made Sep 29 at 2021 11:40 PM

2021-09-29T23:40:06-04:00

Sexual assault did it for me. At 17, after graduating early from H.S, I enlisted in the Navy (1969). While studying sonar and volunteering for sub service I was sexually assaulted while I was sleeping. I thought I would be murdered. Luckily I survived but immediately started the process to exit the military. I was given a General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions six months later. I really loved the Navy, my father was career Navy. That definitely broke what I was hoping to be a Military career.

Response by Capt Beth Anne made Sep 30 at 2021 9:10 AM

2021-09-30T09:10:39-04:00

Leaders. I once had a commander tell me that a General told him to focus on family first, then the military. Because when the military is gone, you want your family to still be there. Then when I told him I couldn't stay late on a whim one night because my childcare wasn't available (it was my MIL), his response was, "Well, I guess you chose family over military... you'll be lucky to retire at Major." One choice changed how he treated me for the next year. Joke was on him - I had amazing leaders after that... but it was too late. My choice was made. When my husband had a promotion opportunity that would require me to separate, I took my sign and it was the best decision I've ever made. Sadly this means that the poor leaders end up making rank while the legit talent and people we NEED in the military get out because they can do better. The double-faced "take care of your people" rhetoric is killing our military. A lot of times as a leader, I had to pull Airmen aside to help them with personal choices that were great for them but were not so great for the military. Sadly, because of that, we lost a bunch of great Airmen because the military was slowly killing peoples' families and dreams.

Response by Capt Beth Anne made Sep 30 at 2021 9:12 AM

2021-09-30T09:12:22-04:00

Response by MSgt Tony Jeffords made Sep 30 at 2021 12:41 PM

2021-09-30T12:41:55-04:00

Marriage.

Response by SP5 Rachael Guevara made Sep 30 at 2021 1:48 PM

2021-09-30T13:48:54-04:00

Adaptability. Every field event, PCS, promotion, etc makes vulnerability a huge challenge. I know because I fell for this when I landed in a horrible unit at a dream post and was promptly presented with "you gotta get down to get around" mentality. I chose to reject the sexual advances of my chain of command and they chose to show me the boot. A very long and strong boot that reached the top of the food chain. I had no chance of survival. If I had support, I would be a champion for the MST issue.

Response by SSG Christopher Conklin made Oct 1 at 2021 3:18 PM

2021-10-01T15:18:05-04:00

Great leadership

Response by SFC Stephen King made Oct 1 at 2021 4:51 PM

2021-10-01T16:51:51-04:00

Not fearing failure. Being able to plan for success and never quitting. Mission or battle planning. The old saying "such it up and drive on." However understanding it took an epitome and realizing I could only control my thoughts and not others was the crescendo of the lesson.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2021 7:48 PM

2021-10-01T19:48:48-04:00

Your personal commitment and willingness to endure. Sometimes life is going to throw you a curve ball and it’s awful. You have to have the personal self courage and strength to endure.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2021 10:19 PM

2021-10-01T22:19:00-04:00

Being able to adapt is a must have skill. It makes it easier to deal with any situation and helps to work better with others. If you are not able to adapt than it makes it harder to be successful once out of your comfort zone. This skill is so versatile because it helps in the best of times and worst of times, to include when there is great leadership or toxic leadership. If you are not able to adapt then people are less likely to work with you and that could cause you to have a negative attitude. If that is the case, it is better for you to serve your time and get out and not infect others with negativity.

Response by PO3 Jed Dunkin made Oct 2 at 2021 1:30 AM

2021-10-02T01:30:17-04:00

Attitude

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2021 12:56 AM

2021-10-03T00:56:44-04:00

Integrity.

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Oct 3 at 2021 7:43 AM

2021-10-03T07:43:10-04:00

Your ability to handle command.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Oct 3 at 2021 10:15 AM

2021-10-03T10:15:53-04:00

Simply put, Integrity. If you have it your career will fall in place, if you do not you are destined for failure.

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Oct 3 at 2021 7:33 PM

2021-10-03T19:33:28-04:00

Doing what that Lt Col in the Marines did and criticizing the leadership was a career terminator for him. Seventeen years of honorable service down the drain overnight.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Oct 4 at 2021 10:57 AM

2021-10-04T10:57:34-04:00

The ability to go with the flow and understanding the decisions of leadership, no matter what level it comes from.

Response by Cpl Ronald Everitt made Oct 5 at 2021 8:35 PM

2021-10-05T20:35:11-04:00

One thing that will break a military career is to miss the years deadline to re-enlist. At least that is what happened to me in 1973 when the years date over-lapped by thirteen days.

Response by PFC John Dowling made Oct 11 at 2021 6:20 PM

2021-10-11T18:20:41-04:00

Horrible battery commanders who don’t know what to do, and get agitated when it is pointed out.Only had one but that was enough.Captain Ralph Milton Buie.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2021 9:09 AM

2021-10-21T09:09:01-04:00

Congratulations to CPT Moses Woods, SSG James Liska, SN Kristi Kalis, Irene Mitin, and MSgt Jim Mohler! You've all won a $100 Amazon gift card! An e-gift card will be sent to the email address associated with your RallyPoint account.

Thanks to all who participated and shared!

Response by SFC Stephen King made Oct 21 at 2021 9:23 AM

2021-10-21T09:23:32-04:00

Resilence, the ability to suck it up and drive on. Embrace the suck and never quit.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2021 10:04 AM

2021-10-21T10:04:47-04:00

If I had to narrow it down to ONE: leadership.

Toxic leaders breed toxic leaders, who breed a toxic organization. Good leaders breed good soldiers, who foster a cohesive unit. Great leaders breed great men and women, who develop a nation.

Response by SFC Terry Fortune made Oct 21 at 2021 12:23 PM

2021-10-21T12:23:04-04:00

Leadership and hurry up an wait.

Response by TSgt George Rodriguez made Oct 21 at 2021 5:54 PM

2021-10-21T17:54:04-04:00

Education, devotion to duty, Knowing the regs that govern you and not letting your superiors buffalo you into doing something wrong.

Response by PVT Michele Bowman made Oct 22 at 2021 8:26 PM

2021-10-22T20:26:24-04:00

One thing that makes the military life is the discipline you learn which carries you the rest of your life.

Response by SGT Stephen Alder, MsED, BA, AA made Oct 22 at 2021 8:53 PM

2021-10-22T20:53:24-04:00

Toxic and selfish leadership

Response by SGT Frank Roberson made Oct 22 at 2021 9:11 PM

2021-10-22T21:11:09-04:00

You need to stay true to yourself and your unit. A job is a job, but the Service is a choice.

Response by SPC Fabian Barahona made Oct 22 at 2021 9:58 PM

2021-10-22T21:58:57-04:00

Leadership and trust on the superiors.

Response by PO3 Deb Chadderton made Oct 23 at 2021 12:10 AM

2021-10-23T00:10:57-04:00

Responsiveness from your chain of command versus knowing you can’t trust those above you.

Response by SSgt Cynthia Hamilton made Oct 23 at 2021 4:25 AM

2021-10-23T04:25:41-04:00

Involvement in a coup attempt or insurrection to stop the peaceful transfer of power is a real career stopper. Let's make sure we vacuum out all the January 6th traitors.

Response by SPC John Dexter made Oct 23 at 2021 8:02 AM

2021-10-23T08:02:07-04:00

Family support and mental health

Response by Sgt Earl Neconie made Oct 23 at 2021 12:14 PM

2021-10-23T12:14:43-04:00

Everything makes or breaks your career! If we are not fighting the enemy; then we fight amongst ourselves! Nuthin’s changed since 1975…

Response by Pvt SanJuana Méndez made Oct 24 at 2021 10:34 PM

2021-10-24T22:34:29-04:00

One thing that will put kibosh on one's military aspirations is feeling greater duty elsewhere. Am Native American, my family's firstborn. Tho I didn't learn about my Native heritage 'til after discharge, I wz raised believing that firstborn--regardless of gender--wz responsible for younger siblings when there is no parent.

When my mother, 5 yr widow, wz killed in traffic accident, leaving me to worry about 5 siblings--including youngest, critically injured in same accident. One wk into 10-day emergency leave, I asked for for indefinite leave of absence in order to secure siblings' welfare. Instead of explaining there wz no such thing but I qualified for hardship discharge, perhaps fearing loss of quota or loss of female recruit, recruiter suggested it wz in siblings' greater interest that I should return to duty. After 2-wk extended leave granted, returned to Basic Training & failed to catch up. Wz placed in nxt training platoon & failed to adapt, & wz placed on standby pending separation, which came without counsel, disclosure or fanfare. Not only did sense of family duty destroy military aspirations but also employment marketability.

Response by PO2 Roger Diez made Nov 1 at 2021 6:01 PM

2021-11-01T18:01:25-04:00

An Ensign with a pencil.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2021 6:17 PM

2021-11-09T18:17:42-05:00

It all boils down to toxic, apathetic and spineless leaders. Even with all of the good times and experiences, leadership can ruin it all.

Response by John Cherry made Dec 13 at 2021 12:04 PM

2021-12-13T12:04:19-05:00

Toxic leadership destroys an organization

Response by SGT James Bradley made Dec 30 at 2021 11:57 AM

2021-12-30T11:57:08-05:00

Resilience is the key ingredient to flourish in and out of the military.

Response by PO2 Tiffany Otero made Jul 28 at 2022 2:04 AM

2022-07-28T02:04:28-04:00

Leadership!!