What Things Did You Learn About Yourself That Were Unexpected or Surprising During Your Military Service? Login & Share to Win!

To believe in myself. I learned how to push my limits

I learned that I could handle more heat than I thought I could and that I had more guts than I ever imagined I had.

I was surprised to find out how well I could adapt to different situations; physical, mental, and emotional.

I started when I was 17. I had no idea how disciplined I could be.

I really enjoyed learning. I thrived in the training, trying to suck as much information as I could, even the more in-depth self learning as I dove into how a ship runs. I achieved a qualification the month before I retired, because I wanted to learn more even as I was leaving.

I learned a lot about the power of working together/teamwork. For so long in my life, “teamwork”, was lumped in with social status or some people were just not team members. That made me a lot more independent. However, in the military, you are pushed past those limitations and those that stay away from working with others find themselves forced to get the job done. A lot of friendships are made this way. Alternatively, sometimes people learn to stay away from certain ones but, you begin to find your people. “Your people” are the ones that you share a lot in common with and are able to foster some great relationships with others.

Looking back over my 24-year military career, it struck me that I may have been more capable than I initially realized. My intent was not to stay in the service after my initial commitment (4 years). At the time, the Air Force was desperate to retain engineers so we bargained for the assignment after my initial tour was completed. That assignment led to me gaining expertise on special weapon security, which led to other related assignments (INF Treaty). In the end, I had two assignments as a commander and other roles that were out of the ordinary. Two factors may have played a part in my career - I was in the right place at the right time for certain assignments, or others smarter than me (there are a lot of these sort of people) saw something that I didn't. That said, I give credit for most of any success that I had to the NCOs who helped me develop as a young officer during my first assignment.

I am very tough both physically and mentally. Tougher than I thought...stronger than I thought. I never knew this before I joined the Army. I discovered these things while working alongside people of all sorts, all backgrounds. They challenged me (and not just Drill SGTs) to do things I didn't think I could do...andi saw success, even at getting others to work with me! The military is a very fine start for any youngster...a very fine start!

The quiet leader in me. Yes, the leadership training I received in both my military and civilian career was beneficial, but was still sort of surprised how "normal" it is for me. Feel very blessed for all my experiences and opportunities.

I learned that I can handle more than I thought! I learned so many leadership skills and enjoyed leading! I also learned a lot about teamwork!