What's your RallyPoint "success story?"

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 18:29:16 -0400

So, how has RallyPoint helped you find your next military assignment or helped to transition to the civilian community? How has it helped to answer a critical career-related question or helped to provide valuable insight into your career?  Also, has it helped you to make any valuable contacts--or helped reintroduce you to former coworkers or supervisors--that have proved to be influential, helpful, or led to partnerships that produced exceptional military or business-related results?  Here's where you can share those success stories, and I'm sure there are more than a few out there! So, pull up a keyboard and let's get this started, thank you for all that you do, and... see you all in the discussion threads! 

Response by Sgt John Henry made Nov 1 at 2013 10:29 AM

Sgt John Henry — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 10:29:29 -0400

To begin with, knowing I can come to this site and interact with friendly veterans and active duty members all over the world is a great value.  I've enjoyed meeting new people via RallyPoint.<div><br></div><div>In addition, I am actively hiring for my company so I am speaking with candidates in my region (New England).</div>

Response by CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 1:22 PM

CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 13:22:14 -0400

Rally Point has helped me to reconnect with other from the past, and see where they have been and the path their career has taken. If members keep their profile up-to-date, I can also see they are currently stationed and where they are heading to for their next PCS.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Nov 1 at 2013 1:44 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 13:44:59 -0400

Through an incredibly helpful RallyPoint contact, I'm assisting a close active duty friend with networking an assignment and position he didn't know existed a few weeks ago.
It's a huge step up in leadership and responsibility for his pay grade, close to his hometown, and will be an incredible career move when selected for the job. I'm keeping my fingers crossed, but just to know this kind of transfer is possible, is a great feeling!

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 4:31 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 16:31:36 -0400

Looking at the current statistics on veteran homlessness (as well as other issues facing our vets today) programs like Rally Point will become critical in the next few years. In my opinion, any means of coming together, of sharing stories and success, can only help create a strong network and voice for helping each other.

Response by CPT Mike M. made Nov 1 at 2013 5:32 PM

CPT Mike M. — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 17:32:55 -0400

Sir, I think the potential is outstanding.  Seeing as how Rally Point is still in its infancy (still has the 'BETA' tag up top) I think it still has some growing to do in order to get the backing to truly influence future positions.  However, for the time being, as it gets its network base established and grows in size, capability, functionality, and recognition, it still serves as a good tool through these forums to get people of all ranks thinking in an unofficial, informal forum and voicing their opinions and/or experience for others to read. 

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 9:55 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 21:55:47 -0400

Networking & mentoring have always been central to personal & professional growth no matter what organization you find yourself in. RallyPoint provides that 'missing link' for servicemembers who may otherwise fall through the cracks. As the old adage goes, "It's not what you know, it's who you know," and RP gives us the keys to get in and drive our own careers.

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2013 11:28 PM

MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 23:28:52 -0400

RallyPoint is filling an amazing position in the digital age.  Facebook and LinkedIn do not allow the freedom of information flow as I am constantly vigilant of non-military persons who are listening.  RallyPoint not only creates a friendly atmosphere but offers tailored features for career growth such as the RallyPoint Universe.  The ability to browse by Location or by Units with a filter for friends only allows me to target my networking capability and watch my network spread.  Thus I am able to leverage their unique positions to help when I am looking for my next duty position.  Just the other day a friend reached out from Germany and asked for help in returning to Ft. Carson where he had been stationed before.  I hope that my connections will help him get his children back into a school they know and a community they know.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2013 7:34 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 19:34:32 -0500

<p>Here's a few other great ongoing discussions on similar subject matter:</p><p>https://www.rallypoint.com/questions/67-what-social-networking-features-would-you-like-added-to-rallypoint</p><p> </p><div class="pta-link-card"><div class="pta-link-card-picture"><img src="http://www.rallypoint.com/assets/fb_share_logo.png"></div><div class="pta-link-card-content"><div class="pta-link-card-title"><a href="https://www.rallypoint.com/questions/67-what-social-networking-features-would-you-like-added-to-rallypoint" target="_blank">What social networking features would you like added to RallyPoint?</a></div><div class="pta-link-card-description">The more suggestions we give RallyPoint the better user experience you will have!

One thing I would like to see added is a ribbon rack to display your awards on your profile as well as a way to dis...</div></div><div style="clear: both;"></div><div class="pta-box-hide"><i class="icon-remove"></i></div></div>

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 11:19 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 23:19:40 -0500

<p>Checking back in here to see if anyone has any success stories to share, specifically those that have specific or measurable results; perhaps you've had a challenging, elusive, or technical question answered, a career or business lead (military position, transition to the civilian world) or opportunity...  also, please feel free to share any other positive result that your affiliation w RallyPoint has helped to facilitate.  Thank you all for sharing your thoughts, wisdom, and subject matter expertise; thank you for your service, and... best wishes for continued success!</p>

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2014 10:42 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Jan 2014 22:42:17 -0500

I have met two Senior NCOs that have helped me learn a lot of things and helped me fix up my ERB. CSM Maynard and 1SG Rink. Amazing.<div><br></div><div>I actually just told like three people to sign up today using that success story(ies) as a reason.</div>

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Feb 9 at 2014 5:28 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Sun, 09 Feb 2014 17:28:04 -0500

This week we opened a special email address to capture the success stories you might have from using the RP platform: [login to see] .
It's critical we get these stories in print for our members to see. Hope to see some great success stories soon!

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Feb 12 at 2014 9:22 PM

CH (CPT) Heather Davis — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 21:22:16 -0500

<p>MAJ Burns:</p><p><br></p><p>Rally point has been instrumental in mentoring and growing our next generation. I have benefited from Rally Point by engaging in thought-provoking dialogue. I have engaged with leaders that have served in past generations, and I am in awe of the commitment and dedication that bonds us in not only caring but guiding those who have lost hope.</p><p><br></p><p>I am an Army Chaplain, and I want to use Rally Point to engage with all that need a genuine friend and someone to talk to.</p>

Response by SSgt George Brown made Feb 12 at 2014 9:27 PM

SSgt George Brown — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 21:27:31 -0500

It has given me a place that is filled with people who KNOW!  

Response by SSG Richard Stevens made Feb 17 at 2014 7:24 AM

SSG Richard Stevens — Mon, 17 Feb 2014 07:24:49 -0500

when i  first saw, rally point on my, email. i wasn't sure about it, so i  would give it, a try everybody has been, great. the first time, people understand me, thank you everyone.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2014 4:50 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 16:50:11 -0400

Thus far I have met some great individuals and received a lot of leadership advice.  However, most successfully I have received the following from this site:<br><br>1) A POC in theater who has given a great deal of advice and information on our upcoming deployment.  Also, I was able to pass this contacts information along to my Company Commander and hopefully he will garner the information he needs to make our unit successful.<br><br>2) My wife will be heading up my units FRG while we are gone and I was given a POC to an FRG leader who has experience.  Hopefully this contact can assist my wife in heading up an FRG that is successful and not drama filled.<br>

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2014 6:49 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 18:49:57 -0400

<p>In order to promote maximum discussion on this and related topics, here are just a few discussions you'll want to check-out; thank you for all that you do, and... see you all in the discussion threads!</p>

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2014 9:36 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 21:36:03 -0400

<P>Open letter to the RallyPoint team,</P>
<P>I wanted to share with you my recent success that I can only attribute to the RallyPoint.com program. </P>
<P> </P>
<P>Kristen and I have been contemplating departing active duty and moving our family back to California but still want to serve. We decided the guard or reserves would be a great option and knew there were part time opportunities in Northern California where we wanted to set roots to be close to family for baby. The only problem was we didn’t know anyone in a guard or reserve unit that could show me the ropes of the part time military world.</P>
<P> </P>
<P>I turned to RallyPoint to make a connection. After you showed me the unit filter function we found Captain Ritchie Buenviaje, who was a part time guardsman, Maintenance Officer at the 129th Rescue Wing at Moffett Field California. I sent him a pm through RP and told him what I was looking for. He responded right away and we formed an instant friendship. We had two friends in common, one he had deployed with and I currently work with in my Program Office. </P>
<P>Ritchie took my resume and performance reports and put in a good worth with the unit commander and guard recruiter. This was about 3 weeks ago and just yesterday the Group and Squadron commander called me for and interview. Based on Ritchie’s recommendation and quality performance reports they offered me a position starting as soon as the Air Force releases me from active duty under the Place Front program. </P>
<P> </P>
<P>The next step is to find civilian employment in the same region. RP is one of the vehicles helping me to explore that avenue as well.</P>
<P> </P>
<P>I want to give a big thanks to you and the RallyPoint team in helping ease some stress during a potentially frustrating transition process. Cheers,</P>
<P>-Nate </P>

Response by SPC Michael Hunt made Mar 17 at 2014 5:48 PM

SPC Michael Hunt — Mon, 17 Mar 2014 17:48:11 -0400

Success through RP for me is connecting to Troops and Veterans from all walks of life. Beats the hell out of isolating and trying to share my experience with non-Vets whom may never understand what we've been through.

Response by CPT Hannibal Bray made Apr 2 at 2014 5:55 PM

CPT Hannibal Bray — Wed, 02 Apr 2014 17:55:17 -0400

Networking online can be a daunting undertaking, particularly with all of the various professional and social networking sites available today. However, to me, RallyPoint stands out as the premier site for military/veteran job seekers and recruiters like me who are actively seeking candidates on a weekly basis. Last week alone I recruited 2 highly qualified veterans to help expand my solar business in New Jersey and California. Thank you RallyPoint!

Response by SGT Ben Keen made May 13 at 2014 4:38 PM

SGT Ben Keen — Tue, 13 May 2014 16:38:47 -0400

My story is that through RallyPoint, I've been able to find, connect, and share ideas with other Veterans who are working within our own communities trying to help raise awareness and to be a voice for all Veterans in our respected areas. RallyPoint has given us one more tool to use to help those who are going through the transition or are about to. I hope that through the different discussions we have here, that those of you on Active Duty awaiting transition can find a source for your answers. As I was telling a young Active Duty Soldier yesterday, we are doing this so that the issues we are going through aren't repeated when it is his turn to transition just like the Vietnam Veterans worked so hard to ensure that those after them would never come home to the same bullcrap they faced. Let's remember, while people were buying us beers and offering Vietnam Vets were called names, spit on and treated like criminals and thanks to them we got the great home coming we got.

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made May 14 at 2014 7:35 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Wed, 14 May 2014 07:35:11 -0400

I'm able to connect with other veterans working in industry and veteran-owned businesses in a single location. It helps me to share about our nonprofit, Project Sanctuary (http://www.projectsanctuary.us), with those who want to build our financial resources so we can serve more military and veteran families.

Home - Project Sanctuary

Home page for the Project Sanctuary website

Response by SSG Robert Burns made May 14 at 2014 8:03 AM

SSG Robert Burns — Wed, 14 May 2014 08:03:52 -0400

I used to waste countless hours sleeping. I thought to myself, there must be something better to do with my time. Then I found Rally Point. Now sleeping is just something I do for fun on the weekends.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2014 7:55 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 14 May 2014 19:55:09 -0400

Yesterday, a fellow Captain, from out of the blue, sends me a text asking if I knew any one at Beale AFB. I wasn't sure, but being form the region I had to know someone. She was traveling in the area on emergency leave for her father’s funeral and had ripped her dress blues pants that she needed for the service. Clothing sales would be closed by the time she got there so we need so one to pick them up before 1600 when they closed in order to make the service the next day. Thinking quickly I jumped on RallyPoint and used their map locator tool and realized I had a pilot friend stationed at Beale. I contacted him but he was deployed to Afghanistan but got referred to his flight commander. I explained the situation and he was more than happy to help an airman in need. He picked up the uniform items she needed and later that night they met up and made the hand off. The next day she made the funeral special for her family during a challenging time.
- Thanks for making the connection RP!!! Keep up the good work!

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 14 at 2014 8:43 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Wed, 14 May 2014 20:43:19 -0400

I don't know if you could consider this a success story, yet. I am helping a young soldier who is battling alcoholism, so far he is four days sober that I am aware of, but he is hanging in there. I am hopeful that I can get one of his battle buddies who is closer to help me out with keeping him clean and sober. I am therefore hopeful that this will become a success story of a long term duration. I am asking prayers for him from anyone who is willing to do so. Thank you all.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made May 21 at 2014 10:31 AM

Capt Brandon Charters — Wed, 21 May 2014 10:31:23 -0400

Another bit of good news hit us yesterday! One of our USAF members applied to the Startup Institute on our Higher Education Page and was just awarded a Veteran scholarship to attend their summer courses. We'll be putting a nice release out on this soon. Big congrats on this because SI has a 90% success rate in placing students with jobs after the curriculum.

Response by Cpl Ray Fernandez made May 27 at 2014 1:35 AM

Cpl Ray Fernandez — Tue, 27 May 2014 01:35:05 -0400

The only thing I can bring is meeting a lot of interesting people on here.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made May 27 at 2014 11:29 AM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Tue, 27 May 2014 11:29:45 -0400

There is a big part of us that will always be military, whether its the training, the memories, or the way we view problems or solutions in life.
At times, though, that 'no-nonsense, cut thru the bull and get to the real matter at hand' view of problems has made people step back, and give me this owl-eyed blink as they stare at me. Its times like that, that I feel as if there is this big gap between me and so many others... and then I find something in my email that Rally Point has a new question to ponder, or someone has answered one of my thoughts... and I don't feel so 'strange.'
Rally Point gives me a chance to feel a part of a community again, of people who have my shared experiences, and they don't need me to explain what "Pros and Cons" are, or why I find some things ammusing that mean nothing to those who "Didn't go"
Rally Point gives me that sense of 'common bond' that I missed without ever realizing it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2014 8:29 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 May 2014 20:29:20 -0400

I feel like I can get honest feedback and insights from professional with different military backgrounds. its like a breath of fresh air when I see others asking the same types of questions I have been too timid to ask within my organization.

Response by Cpl Christopher Allen-Shinn made May 29 at 2014 9:07 PM

Cpl Christopher Allen-Shinn — Thu, 29 May 2014 21:07:14 -0400

I've only met one guy on this site that I knew when I served, but in that sense my other 14 contacts are all successes. I separated nearly a dozen years ago, so I joined primarily to connect with other veterans & service members. My new federal job had nothing to do with RP (pesky USAJobs & civil service rules), but I'm happy to report that I begin working for the Navy as a civilian on Monday!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2014 7:29 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 19:29:17 -0400

Using Rally Point, I was able to find a General Officer (GO) to endorse one of my former Soldiers (now a Veteran) for his Retroactive Combat Action Badge (CAB) from 2003.

After our deployment in 2003 the unit was disbanded when the CAB was announced this Soldier was at another base in another unit and didn’t have the documentation to put in for it. He contacted me on Facebook because he had heard that I helped a few other Soldiers get a retroactive CAB. I put all his documentation into a packet but the Army had changed the requirement that Retroactive CABs for veterans now required a GO endorsement. I contacted G1 and they stated it could be any GO (Active, Guard, Reserve or Retired) for a Veteran. I contacted both GOs at my base, the one I contacted first didn’t want to look at the packet, the next GO I contacted initially said he thought he could support but later decided he would not. I then used Rally Point and through some messages and emails was able to get the packet in front of a GO who then provided a Endorsement Letter for the CAB. I checked on the Soldiers packet the other day and he is being mailed the badge along with orders and a new DD214 with the badge included.

I call that a success story

Response by SSgt Jersun Amos made Jul 16 at 2014 11:00 PM

SSgt Jersun Amos — Wed, 16 Jul 2014 23:00:08 -0400

Gotta send out a big thanks to Capt Brandon Charters, Mr. Joseph Wong, and Mr. John Bentley on helping me land a job immediately, during my current transition from the military. Honestly couldn't say enough great things about these 3 gentlemen as they were key to not only influencing me in my decision to join a company but also in referring me to Companies and Recruiters either within or outside of their network. Let's just say that their overall mission is to assist and help us Veterans in finding a job, regardless of whether or not it was for their company specifically. More so, I want each and every one of you to know that their network is much larger than any single one of ours and without that assistance you will never be able to reach out to the right recruiters/hiring managers!

I do have to say that I will be paying it forward to anyone else that is directed my way and I'm excited to say that I'm happy to have had the opportunity to worked with these three gentlemen in my job search. THANK YOU ALL! It's greatly appreciated! Can't wait to officially start working on Friday!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2014 3:57 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 03:57:50 -0400

My only hope is to find a mentor. I've been in for quite a few years, but I'm still absorbing information like a sponge. I'm much more of a listener than a talker, and maybe, if I'm lucky, will find that one soldier willing to share his or her experiences with me. Aaaannnd...that's it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2014 5:38 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 17:38:10 -0400

Sir, I initially came onto RallyPoint at the suggestion and recommendation of a friend and fellow NCO. Even though I joined in November 2012,I really didn't start using RP until late last year by updating my profile and adding people to my friends list. It's been a lot of fun on here making new friends and contacts as well as the various conversations in the forums. Except for about a half dozen or so people I personally knew beforehand, I had never met anyone I had befriended on here. The only two people though so far I have met through RP then subsequently met in person are SSG Martinez (met a few months ago) and MAJ Carl Ballinger, who I met yesterday. MAJ Ballinger and I chatted for quite some time yesterday and it was quite enjoyable. I definitely look forward to meeting others from on here though.

Response by CPT Joe Cox made Aug 6 at 2014 5:10 PM

CPT Joe Cox — Wed, 06 Aug 2014 17:10:01 -0400

I came here for the same reasons as many of you. I would love to reconnect with old friends, and am certainly excited about the prospect of creating new networks that may lead to Operations management or Logistics management careers.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2014 7:06 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 07:06:13 -0400

In this day and age there are so many opportunities for Active/Guard/Reserve assignments outside the "normal" paths doing interesting tasks that a resource like this can be invaluable. I wonder if there is a way RP can develop a more robust "unit" element to this, more clearly explaining unit missions in a "wiki" style that can be edited by unit members to provide more clarity on the unit mission than the generic unit pages that exist in mainstream Army media channels.

That being said, I like to engage folks here on RP that do unique and interesting jobs in the military in order to gain insight into the next layers of my military career.

Response by SPC David Bruce made Aug 9 at 2014 10:07 PM

SPC David Bruce — Sat, 09 Aug 2014 22:07:42 -0400

Hey state department! I'm looking to work as a civilian overseas! Hire me!

Response by SGT Steve Lovegrove made Aug 11 at 2014 9:00 AM

SGT Steve Lovegrove — Mon, 11 Aug 2014 09:00:39 -0400

Want to link up with other Veterans about Mental Health issues, Vet related activities and the like.

Response by Sgt James Call made Aug 11 at 2014 11:25 AM

Sgt James Call — Mon, 11 Aug 2014 11:25:14 -0400

Networking...networking...networking!

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2014 10:49 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Aug 2014 22:49:20 -0400

Here's a great opportunity to share your RallyPoint story, I'm sure there's many of us that have a great story to tell, so check out the link below for all the details... good luck, and best wishes for continued success!

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/rallypoint-member-video-contest?utm_source=blog&utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Post&utm_content=RallyPoint%20Member%20Video%20Contest&utm_campaign=Blog%20Posts

RallyPoint Member Video Contest | RallyPoint

We want to hear your RallyPoint story! Read the contest guidelines here (http://rly.pt/video-contest-rules) and submit a link to your video in the discussion comments for the running of a $500 cash prize and the chance to be featured on the RallyPoint website! The contest starts now, and we’re taking submissions until September 12th. It’s up to you to pick the top five videos, so vote up your favorites. Keep in mind that the sooner you submit...

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Aug 14 at 2014 11:58 AM

Capt Brandon Charters — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 11:58:49 -0400

Time Warner Cable just hired on RP member SPC Nicole Jensen at their San Antonio location! She will be leading the way as a construction coordinator. Thanks Joseph Wong & LTC Paul Turevon for reaching into our network and plucking the best of the best. Looking forward to dozens of other great success stories coming from TWC. Best of luck to you Nicole!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 15 at 2014 11:31 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 23:31:21 -0400

I'm brand new to RallyPoint but I have already found an old friend who held my hand through the transition from Infantry to Aviation. I had the honor of serving with him at 3 different assignments and went to Iraq with him in 2007. I also found a son of one of the best commanders I ever had in the Air Cavalry. I can't wait to comment on this discussion in another month!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Jun 25 at 2015 11:56 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 11:56:20 -0400

Col Private RallyPoint Member I have a GREAT one! I just noticed a new member who's name sent me thinking "Where do I know this guy from???" I sent him a contact request, asked the standard intro questions, and sure enough...a veteran I went to basic /OSUT infantry training with. Not to show my age, but it has been over 1/4 century!!! The memories are all coming back, names we have forgotten are resurfacing, and only RallyPoint could have pulled this off. LTC Yinon Weiss CPT Aaron Kletzing SSG Carlos Madden Nick Petros Capt Brandon Charters RallyPoint Team and the rest of my RallyPoint family, I give you thanks. PFC Wozo Osorio thank God the Drill Sergeants burned your name into my memory. What a great few last days it has been.

Response by SGT Carissa Lara, RCS made Jun 25 at 2015 4:08 PM

SGT Carissa Lara, RCS — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 16:08:52 -0400

I've been able to answer some questions about my specialty for others looking to reclass. It's hard to find good information on it and even harder to find someone with first hand experience with my MOS. I was even able to put these soldiers in touch with our program director for more information.

Response by SPC Tony Nguyen made Mar 14 at 2017 4:49 PM

SPC Tony Nguyen — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 16:49:00 -0400

I can't say that this website has helped me obtain a job, but some of the Army Values has helped me get a job. (Although, illegal, but I was unaware). I performed an act of self-less service by participating in a Fundraiser selling Krispy Kreme Donuts to raise funds to give to the VA in hopes it somehow helps with the 22 suicides of Veterans everyday. I've been donating one dozen original glazed Krispy Kreme donuts to the VA in my town and they disappear within minutes. The store that I purchase donuts from began to hire and I landed a job because I already helped the store gain money as well as some more sales experience on top of what I already knew from working around food before my short military career. The VAMC serves free coffee to all, patients, staff, and visitors. I just thought I'd give donuts to go with coffee as well as to provide a tasty treat to trigger the reward system since sitting and waiting for appointments can seem like an eternity.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Mar 17 at 2017 1:38 AM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Fri, 17 Mar 2017 01:38:05 -0400

Being retired now for over 20 years, time flies, I enjoy the chance to sometimes feel like I am able to mentor to some degree those who are still serving or on the verge of getting out. The range of topics does keep you on your toes.

Response by SFC Jack Bennett made Mar 17 at 2017 4:42 AM

SFC Jack Bennett — Fri, 17 Mar 2017 04:42:56 -0400

My last assignment was 1987 as the G3 8th Army New Equipment NCO. I learned to work and write at the corporate level. I retired that year and my career took off. I recently came out of retirement and started a Fitness Trainer Business at 70.

Response by SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD made Mar 17 at 2017 2:47 PM

SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD — Fri, 17 Mar 2017 14:47:47 -0400

Being on RP, has been an experience I'll never forget. The comradery and care I sense, goes beyond expectations. We joke, laugh, argue, and feel the hurt our brothers and sisters have verbalized in the past. The interaction we have established with one another, fills that void one feels, when separating from the service. When I'm on this site, great memories flash through my mind. I thank all who are on this site. Prayers go out to you, and your loved ones. Blessings.

Response by SGT Todd Miller made Mar 21 at 2017 9:25 AM

SGT Todd Miller — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 09:25:48 -0400

I am not special. My time and career in the military has come and past. (I would do it again, I miss it.) I have suffered with many of the same problems that today's veterans suffer with. There was no manual when I ETS'd on how to get back into the real world. I'm trying to help an author, that I met on RP, write that book. I like networking and mentoring others as best that I can. I don't always have all the answers but have learned where to look for more information. I have found some great warriors on the trash heap of life and have tried to lift them up and get them back in the game. It breaks my heart to see them cast out, homeless, jobless, addicted, or beat down. These were people that I admired, respected, and emulated. I like RP's vetting process. I know that the people whom I take and give advice on RP have been there and done that no bull. Helping others helps me. Sometimes I run into situations where I need expert advice to counsel someone. I find lost veterans sometimes in places where others won't go.

Response by GySgt Duane DaVein made Mar 21 at 2017 2:22 PM

GySgt Duane DaVein — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 14:22:15 -0400

RallyPoint has been a disappointment. First of all, I can't verify my account because I refuse to send a copy of my DD214 to a nongovernmental entity. Secondly, some of the so-called Marine Corps officers on here seem to be rabid liberals who believe the USMC mission is to not kill our enemies but distribute food and water or some such stuff.

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Mar 24 at 2017 6:23 AM

Capt Christian D. Orr — Fri, 24 Mar 2017 06:23:19 -0400

No Earth-shattering success story here, but RP has been a wonderful tool for reconnecting with old friends, colleagues, and comrades, and for meeting new ones.

Response by PO2 Robert W. made Mar 25 at 2017 8:13 AM

PO2 Robert W. — Sat, 25 Mar 2017 08:13:34 -0400

I'm a gratefully recovering drug addict, clean date 21 Oct 2005. RP has allowed me to freely give back what was readily given to me. I have been able to locate members struggling here and then connect with them in the real world. It's subtle and it's one person at a time, but it is my opportunity to make amends to those who stood by me when I couldn't stand at all.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2017 4:24 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Mar 2017 16:24:13 -0400

I think having a place to come to and communicate with people that have shared the trials that i go through as a young leader is pretty amazing. We have the ability to share knowledge on grand scale.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Mar 26 at 2017 12:39 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Sun, 26 Mar 2017 12:39:49 -0400

I live in Denmark with very little to no contact with vets. This is my connection. Also after retiring I get to give back a little knowledge, experience and guidance to others. It has helped me open up and deal with situations. On this site I don't need to hear, "I understand" because I know the understanding is here. You all have no idea what this site means to me.

Response by CPO Nate S. made Dec 6 at 2019 4:31 PM

CPO Nate S. — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 16:31:24 -0500

I live in the Mid-Atlantic Region and have had the privilege of meeting some who are on the platform in person. We shared a meal or coffee and conversation. I have been fortunate to have many great exchanges with the honorable men and women who have posted here.

I have always agreed with some, but I have worked to be respectful and to state my positions clearly. What I learned is the men and women of principle come here to share. I especially love it when JO's ask honest questions and allow us "ole guys and gals" to chime in and not cut us off because they think they know it all.

I have also loved chatting with those who would have been junior to me had I still been on active duty today. Nearly all, have a maturity and wisdom that is remarkably mature. Perhaps it is because they have suffered essentially a 30-yrs war if you go back to 1990 regarding he Global War on Terror.

I am proud to know men like Col Mikel Burroughs and women like Lt Col Charlie Brown. Many other too. What a great RP family. Besides, sharing with my fellow veterans has been a great way to remain connected to men and women who under adn whom I understand!

Thanks for allow me to share,

Nate Szejniuk
HMC( SW/AW), USN (Ret), HM-8432/HM-8404

Response by SSgt Richard Kensinger made Dec 6 at 2019 5:11 PM

SSgt Richard Kensinger — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 17:11:52 -0500

I can share my 3+ yrs. of clinical research on combat trauma and hopefully reach some who are still struggle w/ psychosocial wounds and encourage them to seek efficacious care. This also fits with my 4 yrs serving as an AF ER medic during the Vietnam Conflict. I dedicate all of my volunteer time in this regard to those who never made it home and to those who are still adversely impacted. I would like to hear much more from field medics on this platform.
Rich

Response by Sgt Daniel Hobart made Dec 6 at 2019 6:22 PM

Sgt Daniel Hobart — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 18:22:13 -0500

My story might be a little different from most. After Vietnam, I dove into building my Construction Business. and spent twenty years building homes. Our Daughter was born and a few years later our Son was born. He was a year old when his Mom took her own life. My life was spinning out of control, but I had two children to raise. During that time is when I found out I had Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Years went by and my children were gone on there path in life. Then in 2006, my daughter was killed in an auto accident. When I thought my life was on a good path, boom!! I found my Son dead in bed in 2009, from a drug overdose. Moving forward I am now off all medications. I am here by the grace of God. There is still purpose my life, and I strive to,"Stop the 22 a Day." SEMPER FI

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 6 at 2019 8:48 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 20:48:40 -0500

I like military history and topics. It occupies some of my times. It is a good forum to cross talk on various subjects. I really do love sharing my knowledge on military history and matters. However I feel like I am wasting my time talking about military history. Why share if nobody cares?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2019 11:25 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 11:25:14 -0500

I’m currently active enlisted soldier, who want to attend Officer Candidate School. I been enlisted a little over four years. I have my 4-year Bachelors Degree and secret clearance. I have the Army OCS check list. How do I find DA form 6285 for Pre commissioning interview or it is another form because that form is not in armypubs.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Dec 8 at 2019 10:55 AM

MSG Floyd Williams — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 10:55:10 -0500

Rally Point is my Military Community even after retirement, and it gives me joy to give back by offering advice and helpful information to those who are still serving, also sharing my experience.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Dec 8 at 2019 4:42 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 16:42:11 -0500

Col Private RallyPoint Member: Good Afternoon, Major Burns! I Love being on Rally Point; as it feels as though I am back in the military!
I Love being on Rally Point for the following reasons: the camaraderie; the love; the fellowship; the honor; endorsing others; voting others up; and, because I believe Rally Point to be a stellar site!