What was the highlight/most cherished memory of your military career?

SSG Steven E. — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:35:37 -0400

Response by SGT Benjamin Huminski made Apr 4 at 2016 12:44 AM

SGT Benjamin Huminski — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:44:30 -0400

I spent 7 months training at an Iraqi NCO academy. It's special because I got to better understand how the culture really worked while being able to show men a different way of thinking. It was life changing.

Response by MSG Tim Gray made Apr 4 at 2016 12:52 AM

MSG Tim Gray — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:52:34 -0400

Making sure an injured Iraqi child got medical attention that enabled her to walk again after being in the middle of a firefight.

Response by CW4 Brian Haas made Apr 4 at 2016 1:15 AM

CW4 Brian Haas — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 01:15:51 -0400

The brothers on my left and right that I got to work with every day. And flying Apaches. And blowing stuff up.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Apr 4 at 2016 1:29 AM

SN Greg Wright — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 01:29:55 -0400

Cmon, you can't ask this and not give yours!

Response by SSG Waldo Yamada made Apr 4 at 2016 1:36 AM

SSG Waldo Yamada — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 01:36:14 -0400

Hallucinating while in SFAS. The start of my realization that my body can't take external stimuli/stressors as before. Those cold nights in a sleeping bag with 2 hour sleep makes me appreciate being in my king size bed every night nowadays.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Apr 4 at 2016 5:57 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 05:57:17 -0400

31 years of serving with Soldiers, their Family's and for our Country!

Response by MSgt David Webb made Apr 4 at 2016 6:01 AM

MSgt David Webb — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 06:01:42 -0400

#1 was having my grandfather (retired Army Captain) administer my final oath of enlistment for my reinlistment after my deployment. I reinlisted in Sept of 2011 and he passed away the following July. I retired Dec of 2013. #2 (ranked by importance) was finally getting notification that I was on a list for deployment to Iraq (2010). I was finally going to actually SERVE my country instead of just training to do it. My rotation was 2nd to last I'm Balad. Our relief was the last rotation. We had already done a lot of closing down and downsizing to prepare for the pull-out. I was getting really scared that I would never realize my dream of deploying during wartime ops.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Apr 4 at 2016 7:21 AM

SGM Matthew Quick — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 07:21:48 -0400

When my Career Counselor teammate earned the Secretary of the Army (Department of the Army level) Career Counselor of the Year award...my biggest joys have been and will always be what our Teams accomplish.

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Apr 4 at 2016 7:45 AM

Maj Marty Hogan — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 07:45:38 -0400

In 32 years I have quite a few. If I had to pick one, I would pick something that happened during my last deployment. I had to coach, train, mentor and attempt to save a junior NCOs career- I was still an E7 at that time. I have always been part of a smaller shop or office and you don't really force shape. Had to figure out how to help a kid that had been misdiagnosed as being lazy when severe ADHD was the issue. Helped him with the healing process and got him the help he needed and the right agencies involved. Short story, he was vocally tuned in and could detail the job to me in great detail when asked, but when it came time to executing on his own he would get lost in details. Through correct intervention (not corrective action) we turned him from being on the verge of being kicked out to highly productive and motivated NCO. He was later diagnosed with a more challenging condition, but the original help and skills we helped him define made him successful. This is not something I consider a war hero type action, but it defined to me what my purpose had become and what my role was as a sneior NCO. It validated my career in an instant.

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Apr 4 at 2016 8:45 AM

SSG Ed Mikus — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 08:45:08 -0400

re-enlisting on the Bridge of No Return on the border between North and South Korea

Response by Cpl Jon Westbrook made Apr 4 at 2016 9:32 AM

Cpl Jon Westbrook — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 09:32:54 -0400

Its a toss up between almost being sucked out of a UH 1 from the Jetstream during a raid on a Gas Oil Platform, and doing VBSS with the Recon guys.

Response by SPC Kelly MacLeod made Apr 4 at 2016 10:34 AM

SPC Kelly MacLeod — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 10:34:54 -0400

The look on our OPS NCOIC's face when we presented him with Hulk Hands after he smashed his personal laptop.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2016 10:54 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 10:54:08 -0400

Tough to pick one. Probably being selected for a regular commission at the 2 year commissioned point.

Accepting it turned out to be bad, but, it was a honor at the time.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2016 11:15 AM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 11:15:09 -0400

Watching my son graduate from Marine Recruit Training 6 month after I retired from MCRD San Diego.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Apr 4 at 2016 12:02 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 12:02:54 -0400

2001 I was deployed to Kosovo. While there I got to work with a Hungarian Infantry Bn. One day the CPT I worked with asked me if I'd ever driven a BTR-80, to which I replied no. He told me to meet him early Sunday morning which I did and got the run down and tour of a BTR-80, then I got to drive it. Was fantastic.
Then during the last part of the tour, the Hungarian Bn was changing out. I and other Americans were invited to attend the change of command ceremony. When we arrived I was approached by the Hungarian CSM and he asked me if I would present end of tour awards to some soldiers. He said I would be provided with a translator and I would present to an entire rank - all awards were lined up ready. I replied YES. As I went through I said a few words to every soldier. Later on at the reception for the outgoing and incoming CDRs, the outgoing CDR came to me with (my) translator and presented me with his personal coin. This coin will buy you more than a cup of coffee, it is one ounce of pure silver with the BN logo on front and denoting the KFOR deployment on the back.
I have briefed Commanding Generals, high ranking politicians. I've given courses to the Ministry of Defense General Staff (Ukraine), but being asked to present awards to soldiers from another country means more to me- I've received my share of medals, but this coin will always hold the top spot.

Response by PO1 Nathan Watts made Apr 4 at 2016 4:00 PM

PO1 Nathan Watts — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 16:00:37 -0400

By my 17th year of Naval Service, I had already done tours on an LA Fast Attack Sub, the USS Houston (SSN-713), cross rated to the surface and subsequently did three more back to back sea commands (turning shore duty down at every turn) on the USS John S. McCain (DDG-56), the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), and the USS Vandegrift (FFG-48).
Years I spent at sea, but my highlight "proudest moment" didn't come from any of those commands - although there were a great many incidents that I absolutely am proud of.
No - it wasn't until I received orders to report to Fort Bliss / Camp McGregor to undergo three months of training in preparation to do a boots on ground tour in Iraq.
This may not be a big deal to anyone in the Army or Marines - but for me it was a really big deal.
Navy Provisional Detainee Battalion II, only the second IA tour in the Navy - longest boots on ground tour for the Navy since WWII.
I was a regular sailor, not a CB or SEAL (kinda obvious on that one - they don't make them as small and weak as I), and underwent the most physical training I had ever endured in my life, which subsequently made me the healthiest and fittest I had ever been, before or since. We floppy flabby squids dropped over 100 of us when training was complete and we shipped out as a unit.
So, yes - I know you guys do it all the time, so this is "nothing" compared to what you have experienced - and I have absolute respect for you all. But for me, there is a reason why nearly 85% of my Facebook friends are all from that one single command, and the rest are just squids I served time with throughout the years.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navy_Provisional_Detainee_Battalion_2

Navy Provisional Detainee Battalion 2 - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Navy Provisional Detainee Battalion 2 (NPDB2) is a United States Navy task force of 422 active duty and Naval Reserve Sailors formed 1 May 2006 for the purpose of combat duties in Iraq.

Response by SPC Donte Hill made Apr 4 at 2016 5:00 PM

SPC Donte Hill — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 17:00:32 -0400

Putting the ink on the paper. The amazing people for whom I've had the opportunity to work with. My highlight would be one product the TF Vanguard AOR Map OIF /OND 10-11. Just my doing my part

Response by CPT Chris Loomis made Apr 4 at 2016 5:52 PM

CPT Chris Loomis — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 17:52:26 -0400

Very simply the day I knew for myself that the title, "Soldier" applied. The day I knew format self that I am, and will always remain an American Soldier.

Response by CPT Chris Loomis made Apr 4 at 2016 5:54 PM

CPT Chris Loomis — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 17:54:22 -0400

SFC ZACK K excellently stated!!!

Response by SGT Larry Prentice made Apr 4 at 2016 6:12 PM

SGT Larry Prentice — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 18:12:25 -0400

My most cherished memory was when I was presented with my combat patch in Iraq 2004. At that moment I was able to say that I was a 3rd generation combat veteran.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Apr 4 at 2016 7:14 PM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 19:14:44 -0400

Watching soldiers grow professionally and personally. The trust the soldiers would do the right thing, and I would fight for them.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2016 7:24 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 19:24:59 -0400

After thinking some more I would change my previous answer. The highlight was when I check mail for the first time after arriving back in the USA, I got a letter saying I was accepted to complete a degree in civil engineering and would become a cartographic officer.

then I went to the library to find out what that was.

Response by SPC Rory J. Mattheisen made Apr 4 at 2016 8:28 PM

SPC Rory J. Mattheisen — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 20:28:01 -0400

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2016 10:45 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 22:45:03 -0400

I rotated back to shore duty in 1983 from Fighter Squadron Eleven to AIMD Power Plants. While that AO '82' IO Cruise with VF -11 was a good tour, as retirement was ahead, I was a fairly happy sailor having served 20 years with both the Army and Navy, until the Div Officer called me in to his office. When he told me to take a seat, I knew my 6 would remain "in tack". He said I have good news and bad news, which first? I said" I'll take the good news first. He said" Gotta call from your old squadron skipper. He told me that a 2nd Class Petty Officer had requested that I should be the one to swear him into his re-enlist.. Needless to say, I was heartened to know that I had became a positive influence in my last command. Then he said, " Enlisted can't issue the oath". I said that sucks for the young sailor. I thought for a moment then told the Div Off, " As a member of the US Army's police force, I was authorized to advise man or woman of their rights against self incrimination, and a young sailor who has expressed his desire to continue his Naval Service, I can 't administer the oath of office but I can advise a man of his constitutional rights against self-incrimination. No way could I square that with what my conscience.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2016 7:22 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 07:22:03 -0400

During Hurricane Katrina - saving all the folks that were trapped in their homes and on their roofs. Also, getting to work with their local law enforcement and fire department to help bring their city back to order. Cherished memories I will take to the grave with me!!!!

Response by Sgt William Coffee made Apr 5 at 2016 8:59 AM

Sgt William Coffee — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 08:59:32 -0400

After 12 moths in Vietnam I was handed a manila envelope June 1970 inside which was a set of orders directing me to stand down from my current assignment and report to transient facilities Danang for transportation to Camp Butler Okinawa and further transportation to CONUS. Happiest day of my Military career.

Response by SGT James Ader made Apr 5 at 2016 9:02 AM

SGT James Ader — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 09:02:56 -0400

dropping many Maahdi Army soldiers in Spring of 04. POGs

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Apr 5 at 2016 9:15 AM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 09:15:55 -0400

Like everyone, there were countless tiny moments that stood alone. Some were bad, some were funny, but I have to say, my most cherished memory in the Marine Corps, was the moment when SSGT Condon put that Eagle, Globe, and Anchor into my hand, and said that phrase that she repeated sixty times that morning, "Congrats, Marine...welcome to the family."
I curled my fingers around it, and yea, I was crying, because I'm pretty sure I worked harder for that single piece of brass, than I'd ever worked for anything in my life.

Response by MGySgt Fred Stammer made Apr 5 at 2016 9:17 AM

MGySgt Fred Stammer — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 09:17:28 -0400

Deployments and the Camaraderie with the Marines I've served with

Response by PO1 Chris Crawley made Apr 5 at 2016 9:22 AM

PO1 Chris Crawley — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 09:22:19 -0400

The flight deck.

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Apr 5 at 2016 9:35 AM

SPC Steven Depuy — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 09:35:05 -0400

Reforger 78, my track commander on my M-113 wanted to drive for a bit. I jumped in the commanders seat. It seems he left his M-16 lay on top of the vehicle and I did not notice, and it was thrown over. We realized it when we got to the next town. We went back, in the dark, and found it. That was a major HOLY SHIT moment for both of us, that ended up a lot better than it could have.

Response by SPC(P) Alexandra Hinds made Apr 5 at 2016 9:38 AM

SPC(P) Alexandra Hinds — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 09:38:36 -0400

Considering that I have yet to deploy, I would have to say that my highlighted and most cherished memory of my so-far Military career would be when I was awarded the APFT award in AIT for achieving the highest overall score of both the males and females. It is something that I do not promote nor that I brag about considering I do not practice PT the way I was. Hopefully, in my next 1-1 1/2 years left, I will have a more highlighted memory for my career.

Response by COL Len Grasso made Apr 5 at 2016 9:47 AM

COL Len Grasso — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 09:47:31 -0400

Meeting personnel with common core values that you could trust and rely on.

Response by PO1 Kyle Crippen made Apr 5 at 2016 10:14 AM

PO1 Kyle Crippen — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 10:14:52 -0400

Again there are so many memories that are cherished in different ways. There are moments that are special to me that would make no sense to any one else, yes this group would understand to a point.
But in general it is bringing my DET back with everyone we left with, and good health is a bonus.

Response by PO3 James Carter made Apr 5 at 2016 10:32 AM

PO3 James Carter — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 10:32:12 -0400

It may sound kind of cheesy but to me it was actually BEING in the military. I followed Kennedys speech...Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country..Being in the military gave me a sense of purpose and aim..I knew, with a few exceptions I'm sure, that I could depend on you or anyone else and vice versa when and if the balloon went up....while I wish I could of been a WO-3, O-3, CSM I wouldn't trade my experiences with anything and am glad for the time that I had in the military.....

Response by PO2 Joan Feledy made Apr 5 at 2016 10:54 AM

PO2 Joan Feledy — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 10:54:47 -0400

Most of my memories were small and personal. They were about accomplishment and pride. Each time I went through one of these moments, it gave me a feeling of pride, purpose and accomplishment I never realized I could have. The military was a great place for me, we fit together very well.

Response by SSG Donald Mceuen made Apr 5 at 2016 11:36 AM

SSG Donald Mceuen — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 11:36:51 -0400

When i swore in and changed my life for the best

Response by CMSgt Ernest Walker made Apr 5 at 2016 11:56 AM

CMSgt Ernest Walker — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 11:56:02 -0400

During my 30 year career in the Air Force the most cherished moment occurred in October 1962 when our fighter squadron deployed on very short notice to Homestead AFB, Florida at the beginning of the Cuban missile crisis. I was awakens around midnight by our first sergeant and told to pack my duffel bag and report to the hangar. We loaded our equipment on a flight of C-123's and took off, destination unknown. We flew for several hours and landed to refuel. We deplaned and I asked the fuel truck driver where we were and he said Maxwell AFB, Alabama. We got back on the plane, took off and flew for several more hours. When we landed it was very warm outside and we were told that we were at Homestead AFB, Florida. We immediately unloaded our equipment and set up shop. Our F-102's were already there so we services them and they took off. It wasn't until later in the day that we were told what was going on in Cuba. Our pilots flew missions around the clock and we slept in the hangar. We weren't the only squadron deployed there. The flight line was literally full of fighter aircraft. One evening the alert Claxton sounded and pilots swarmed out and fired up there planes. I thought the stuff about to hit the fan when they began taxiing to the runway and taking off but about halfway Dow the runway they cut their throttles and returned to the ramp. It turned out to be a practice run but we didn't know that at the beginning. It was a very surreal feeling thinking we were going to war.

Response by SSG Jay Marchand made Apr 5 at 2016 1:18 PM

SSG Jay Marchand — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 13:18:39 -0400

Becoming an instructor (Air Assault, JRTc) to share what I was taught, learned thru experience. That was with out a doughty, the best time in my 20 years.

Response by SP5 David Cox made Apr 5 at 2016 1:22 PM

SP5 David Cox — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 13:22:33 -0400

My time in the Berlin Brigade, at Field Station Berlin, and the fall of the Wall.

Response by SP5 Michael Cates made Apr 5 at 2016 3:13 PM

SP5 Michael Cates — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 15:13:14 -0400

Well really although it sounds odd but the most profoundly important thing that I remember and I have told over the years is How a platoon from the 198th Brigade near Chu lai, Vietnam was ask to send a platoon to protect a Village from having its Mayor Beheaded All was good until we got orders from stateside to pull out! The VC came in and YES the New Mayor! TALK ABOUT BEING BRAVE AND KNOWING WHAT PUBLIC SERVICE IS ALL ABOUT AND LOVE OF COUNTRY! We did this back and forth thing and it taught me something for a LIFE TIME!! Wow have you heard about ISIS ie. BEHEADING!!! HOW SAD!!! That the DEMOCRATS AND LIKES OF BILL ARES etc. pulled us out to leave the VIETNAMESE PEOPLE to fend for themselves before they were READY! But they fought COMMUNISM TO THE DEATH! Then we had the FIRST refugee crisis ie. BOAT PEOPLE!!

Response by PFC Donnie Harold Harris made Apr 5 at 2016 3:50 PM

PFC Donnie Harold Harris — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 15:50:51 -0400

Once while on a rest break as the CO's radio operator on a Company-wide remote patrol of the Border area between North and South Korea, I laid back on my backpack for a rest. After a few minutes, a poisonous snake Mamushi) crawled 5 or so inches from my Face, Coming high down to me over from the top of my radio. After I was out of Harms way I jumped up and Pulled my 45 out. A fellow Radio Operator for one of the LT's. a Platoon leader ( I was the current Radio operator for the company commander) came from behind me hitting it with the butt of his m16. We were on top of a mountain range waiting for the company commander to return from a visit with command. As He pulls into view, I instantly had and Idea as we watched the captain returning up the mountain, walking up our way. I took the snake and laid it on the trail where he would walk by. As he came up the mountain I walked down to meet him. I was his radio operator, of and Infantry Company. This soldier was the cream of the crop. I was and expert marksman in most small arms weapons. I was on A team of sharpshooters. He was a West Point graduate. What could go wrong? As he came up the trail To meet me we came upon the snake between us. I quickly jumped into action stating I got this sir. A ma-munshi laid there on the trail. The only poison snake in Korea, as I recall it. I pulled my colt 45 and took off its head with one shot. Before he had a chance to realize the damn thing was not moving. All before he had a chance to see the thing was already dead. It was for fun. I figured. I did not think the captain would react as he did. Next thing I knew I was being interviewed to go to West Point. Now That was scarier than the snake. Jobs I have had in the Army. Infantry, 1/3 of a law crew (hand held missile), radio operator of which the Battalion commander LTC.himself came down to fire me from this duty. So in the wisdom of the company commander I was put on a 3 man Law crew. Until I realized There was Motor pool duty on the Jeep. All those letters and shit alfa's and bravo's.got in the way of my pot smoking at the time. Apc Driver camp Benning small tank. What an experience this was. I was a Volunteer. My draft # was in the 300's.

Response by SPC Ingo W Schiller made Apr 5 at 2016 4:03 PM

SPC Ingo W Schiller — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 16:03:24 -0400

I really dont know i was in the Cold War and did my Duty in 62-63 in Germany ! I had a better Job before i got drafted and after i got out !

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Apr 5 at 2016 4:11 PM

PO1 Todd B. — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 16:11:24 -0400

For me, it was aboard the U.S.S. Comte De Grasse DD-974 when we ported in Ireland. We were the first U.S. warship to do so since WWII and it is a week I have never forgotten. It would take too long to describe all the reasons why, but I can tell you I am not the only one aboard that ship that felt as I did.. the day we left, the ship even played an Irish dirge over the 1MC as we pulled away from the port very slowly...

Response by TSgt Dan Kenna made Apr 5 at 2016 4:22 PM

TSgt Dan Kenna — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 16:22:21 -0400

Separation.

Response by SPC Tim Grasmick made Apr 5 at 2016 4:36 PM

SPC Tim Grasmick — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 16:36:09 -0400

20 years later and I was just thinking of this today. The first time I put on the uniform and the first day my DS called me soldier. not to be sissy lala sentimental BSer but that is my answer. The day I got out was not even close. That day was closer to my worst days. I joined the National Guards shortly after that, but with my disability's I could not last past my 6 years. Kicking myself now for not staying in the Army. 20 years this year):

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2016 4:57 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 16:57:51 -0400

I was lucky to have a lot of cherished memories involving operations and the brothers I've worked with, but by far my most cherished memory was after the Crucible when my Kill Hat handed me my Eagle. Globe, and Anchor, and said "Welcome to the brotherhood." I shed enough tears to last me a lifetime over the next 5 minutes.

Response by SSG James Hughes made Apr 5 at 2016 5:08 PM

SSG James Hughes — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 17:08:05 -0400

Serving on the Military adviser before the War

Response by SCPO Carl Wayne Boss made Apr 5 at 2016 5:17 PM

SCPO Carl Wayne Boss — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 17:17:13 -0400

I would have to say the highlight as well as the most cherished memories that I have about my time in the Services were/are centered around the People I served with!

Each of them, highly dedicated and most... extremely competent individuals, that often selflessly put aside their needs and the needs of their respective families in order to do their duty... People that as a rule gave 120% of themselves both mentally & physically in their day to day service participation and more often that not well exceeded expectations.

We as a Country are lucky to have had them in our service and the amount of good we were able to accomplish, the lives we were able to save or otherwise positively impact is beyond any power to estimate.

Without them I would never have enjoyed the success I have both in and out of the Service... I owe them all a debt that can never be repaid!

Response by SSG Darian Jones made Apr 5 at 2016 5:40 PM

SSG Darian Jones — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 17:40:04 -0400

The brothers i deployed with and fought with side by side together. No better feel when you know they have your 6 all the time any time!!! Would do it all over again in a heart beat! No better organization than the us military!

Response by Sgt Kevin Thompson made Apr 5 at 2016 5:50 PM

Sgt Kevin Thompson — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 17:50:06 -0400

LMFAO great question.

Mine is the fart that killed Ssgt Q.

We were were out in the field in 29 palms (the stumps) in our hummer and our plt sgt Ssgt Q Quirindongo was in our vehicle. I don't know what the hell did it but I had to fart while in the turret and Ssgt Q started screaming WHAT THE FUCK THOMPSON?!!!!! He made our driver pull over and told me to get the fuck out and don't come back. Basically my fart gave my plt sgt. some road rage and I still laugh about it today.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2016 6:29 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 18:29:26 -0400

Being deployed with a best friend with being the only two medics for a infantry company and creating a SOP for medical training for a POI my unit created for the Jordanians. The thought process, the ability to put a lot of your knowledge into it and see the result flourish was amazing. Then being to demonstrate how effective your teaching methods were by having them perform their new skills after many months since their training in front of a new unit leadership was great. Made you feel like you did something. I couldn't of ask for a better friend to work with let alone the guys I served with.

Response by PO2 Randall Knight made Apr 5 at 2016 6:44 PM

PO2 Randall Knight — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 18:44:50 -0400

guiding a junior member and seeing them "get it" and knowing they can carry on and pass it on when the time comes.

Response by SPC Rob Miller made Apr 5 at 2016 10:34 PM

SPC Rob Miller — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 22:34:00 -0400

When I pounded my wings into my chest after Airborne School. I still didn't know anything but damn it if I wasn't proud.

Response by LCpl Stephen Sharp made Apr 5 at 2016 11:08 PM

LCpl Stephen Sharp — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 23:08:09 -0400

My most CHERISHED MEMORY as a US MARINE was that of putting my right had on "THE WALL" & visiting the Battle of Iwo Jima, Mount Suribachi Monument in Washington D.C.

Response by SPC Eddy Rojas made Apr 6 at 2016 7:21 AM

SPC Eddy Rojas — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 07:21:56 -0400

Working with some of the most adaptable unselfish smart people I have ever met. We shared some tough times but In the end we made it work and we didn't whine about it.

Response by RADM Jay Yakeley made Apr 6 at 2016 9:00 AM

RADM Jay Yakeley — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 09:00:33 -0400

Flying over 6,000 hours in F-4's, F-14's F-18's and 1300 carrier landings

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2016 9:12 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 09:12:47 -0400

My time as a battery commander. The first time I stepped in front of the formation and realized I was responsible not only for the Soldiers in front of me but their families as well. An analogy I used to describe it is what a new pilot must feel when they look behind them from the cockpit and see all the people on the plane and realize they are responsible for getting these folks safely to their destination and back to their families.
I am not sure there is anything that compares to the feeling of running into one of my former Soldiers and seeing the look of appreciation/excitement of meeting up again. That look always tells me I made a positive impact on that person.

Response by Cpl Bruce Raftery made Apr 6 at 2016 9:19 AM

Cpl Bruce Raftery — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 09:19:59 -0400

When I fist got back fom Viet Nam I was assigned with an officer to escort bodies back to their final resting place

Response by LTC Tom Jones made Apr 6 at 2016 10:06 AM

LTC Tom Jones — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 10:06:19 -0400

A Regional Forces (RF) NCO and his wife came to me holding their severely infected infant daughter and explaining that the (Cambodian border in II Corps) Province doctors had told them that the child was beyond their ability to save. With a bird coming in from--and to return to--Cam Rhan Bay on the Coast of Vietnam, I advised my team chief to ask for an evac. "You're too soft with these people, Jones. They just want a free ride to the Coast. No." He then turned back to his board game in the team house bar. I acknowledged him with a, "Yes, Sir" and went back to the TOC where I made the call counter to and in spite of my Captain's guidance. A couple of weeks later, that NCO and his wife again approached me with tears in their eyes but this time they were carrying their recovering child in their arms. Their gift of gratitude was a box of six small rice cakes; a sacrifice a his pay grade. I was back in the States when, surprised, I got the "Stars and Stripes" article in the mail from our Team Operations NCO detailing what had happened. Far and away, my proudest moment. Great question. Thanks for asking.

Response by SGT Andrew Sherman made Apr 6 at 2016 10:29 AM

SGT Andrew Sherman — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 10:29:23 -0400

After a tough day of travel in a hot MRAP to a remote base near the Iranian border, we played a set (I was in the 34th ID Band, Red Devils Rock Band Team) and literally saw morale improve. The people on the base smiled and danced and the genuineness of their emotions could be felt. Music made that base forget about where they were, and took them "home" for a couple hours. Then we got in the gun trucks and did it again for about 8 more months.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Apr 6 at 2016 10:38 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 10:38:00 -0400

I was landing an L-18 on the tactical runway at Eglin AFB when I hit vortex turbulence and the tail passed me up and my left wing dropped when I was just 50 feet off the deck. I could see the spot on the runway behind me that we were about to impact.

After the icecicles went into my heart along with the thought that I didn't know what to do, time slowed to a crawl. I knew that I had to add max power and get the left wing up, and full left rudder to bring the nose back around. It all happened in slow motion, but I got straightened out and brought it in to a normal landing.

After taxiing in and refueling the plane and tying it down, while we were walking to the operations shack my instructor (who had not said a word up to that point) said "Waddell, do you remember that landing on the Tactical runway?" - as if I will ever forget it - "I almost took it from you, but you did what I would have done, so I let you have it".

Especially coming from that instructor, it was the highest vote of confidence I have ever received. Both of our lives were on the line.

Response by CPL Wilfred Roberge made Apr 6 at 2016 11:31 AM

CPL Wilfred Roberge — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 11:31:14 -0400

I joined the Reserve in 2000 after breaking both legs and an arm , plus I have flat feet, so Basic was VERY VERY HARD I was recycled, I was told I was gonna go home but I stuck it out and I made it through. Two months later I "fainted" at my civillian job and fell off a ladder and landed on my head onto a concrete floor (ladder was at least 10 feet tall), this led to finding out I was Epileptic, thought I would NEVER be able to stay in the service at all let alone dep.loy. Civillian Neurologist put me on meds and got things under control enough that the Army finally agreed to deploy me with my unit in 2007 during the Surge, that would have to be my proudest moment!!!! Being deployed when I thought I was a sure fire never gonna go overseas soldier!!!!!
Was very proud that when we landed in Shannon , Ireland on the flight to Iraq to refuel, the crowd at the Terminal gave us a Standing ovation when we left to reboard. out floght. I also remember being at Bight Star in 2001 and a Kuwaiti Soldier asked if I was American and when I answered yes he got out of his vehicle and hugged me and said he was so sorry for 9/11 and that Kuwait loves America.

Response by PO3 Michael Synan made Apr 6 at 2016 12:17 PM

PO3 Michael Synan — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 12:17:19 -0400

3............ being crew to an Angel Flight ....catching a Russian nuke on its way into Vladivostok, it was said to be off the east coast by ny....having a n older grandparent couple smile as i walked thru airport in dress blues

Response by TSgt Vince Diana made Apr 6 at 2016 2:24 PM

TSgt Vince Diana — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 14:24:46 -0400

EVERY MINUET, OF MY 21 YEARS OF ACTIVE DUTY, WAS A CHERISHED MEMORY !!

Response by Sgt Kenneth Mayberry made Apr 6 at 2016 3:28 PM

Sgt Kenneth Mayberry — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 15:28:29 -0400

The bonds that I still have with my brothers in Arms. Plus the ten years that I put in.

Response by SPC David Young made Apr 6 at 2016 3:47 PM

SPC David Young — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 15:47:58 -0400

I have two that stand out for me. I was Runner-up for 1992 1st Infantry Division Cook of the Year. A Brigadier General came to my Dining Facility to present the awards I received.

The second thing was graduating from Air Assault School at Fort Campbell a couple of years later.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2016 4:41 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:41:56 -0400

Stationed at Ft. Carson, Co., went into town for a cup of java and met the girl I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. I winked at her and it pissed her off so bad that she said yes to a date that has lasted 47 yrs.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2016 4:51 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:51:11 -0400

Receiving my Twenty Year letter. There are many others that all bunch up together in Second Place, but the former is all alone at Numero Uno.

Response by SFC Alfredo Gonzalez made Apr 6 at 2016 5:21 PM

SFC Alfredo Gonzalez — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 17:21:01 -0400

Pinning on one of my former soldier's Ranger Tab who was previously an E-4 in my Platoon (2nd PLT) after I PCS'ed from Germany to Ft. Benning. I had already retired, but somehow NOW 1LT Price, found out where I was working, and asking me to pin on his tab. The crux of the matter is that SPC Price had been assigned to S1, although he was an 11B, because the Platoon/Company had somehow managed to peer this soldier out of the PLT, hence he was detailed to S-1... Long story short, as soon as I was assigned as the 2nd PLT SGT, I found out I had a man detailed/assigned to S-1 and immediately did the necessary and required to get him back where he belong; an Infantry Platoon... Of course, the 1SG and CO backed me... The soldier wanted nothing more than to be back with in his Infantry PLT and I had my soldier back. Win win situation! BTW, I was a civilian none Ranger type pinning on a Ranger tab... Typically that doesn't happen... I believe in second chances!

Response by SPC Geoffrey Chatten made Apr 6 at 2016 6:01 PM

SPC Geoffrey Chatten — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 18:01:54 -0400

We got stuck at an IPHONE outpost on black air advisory for a few days. We ran out of food and began trading. We ate a large meal and danced as if they were family. I tell everyone the best meal of my life was that one.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 6 at 2016 9:23 PM

COL Charles Williams — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 21:23:15 -0400

SSG Steven E. I have had many, so it is hard to pick one. But, I think the most memorable moment I can remember is the feeling I had when I graduated from Ranger School in 1985, knowing 300 started and less than 100 were standing.

Response by SGT Stanley Bass made Apr 6 at 2016 11:20 PM

SGT Stanley Bass — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 23:20:29 -0400

Funeral Detail for fallen Comrades. It was a 30 day assignment, and i wish i could have done it longer. One was a Georgia state trooper who was in the National Guard as well. He was killed in the line of duty on a Georgia interstate. They had a helicopter fly over and everything.
Second would be as an E-3 Meeting CSA General Gordon R Sullivan, because i refused to let his Colonel sign for a classified document, and the General was the only one that was cleared in his office to sign for it. i was wrong and the colonel had in interim clearance, but i got to meet the CSA and he commended me for sticking to my guns, even though I was wrong, and gave me his CSA coin.

Response by SGT Nathan Huff made Apr 7 at 2016 1:24 AM

SGT Nathan Huff — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 01:24:52 -0400

getting out. I just had a bad streak of luck with bad leaders. After getting injured the last time before getting out it was just downhill from there. to often a "broke dick" is treated like crap while used for every ounce of work they can get out of them. At that point the comradery that I loved and cherished faded. I miss the family I had in the military just not the BS from the shty leaders I had around me.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2016 5:10 AM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 05:10:40 -0400

The day I separated!

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Apr 7 at 2016 9:25 AM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 09:25:23 -0400

The day I (and my team) were awarded Certificates of Merit for scoring 266 out of a possible score of 300 on a Team Military Skills Land Navigation Stakes course as a young sergeant in 1970s Korea. It was a gruelling, all-day, wet, muddy and exhausting experience. I could count on one hand the number of things that went like we had practiced. It was the highest score and were 'First Place'.
It also meant more as time went by in my 20 year career because as I was promoted and won many more awards (individual and team) it continued to stand out as a 'proof' to myself that I could lead soldiers.

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2016 2:43 PM

CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 14:43:16 -0400

Sharing Thanksgiving Dinner with the President and dignitaries only months after 9/11 and the kickoff of OEF, I was the only soldier to receive the Presidential challenge coin.

Response by LT Everett Suchland made Apr 7 at 2016 5:36 PM

LT Everett Suchland — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 17:36:52 -0400

The year I spent "wintering over" at Byrd Station, Antarctica, during Operation Deep Freeze 67. I was the only communicator (Radioman First Class) at the research station.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Apr 8 at 2016 5:12 PM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Fri, 08 Apr 2016 17:12:09 -0400

When I knew how to maneuver tanks with simple voice commands. Each section, each tank knew the SOPs. Each Tank Commander, gunner, loader, driver knew their jobs. I must give a lot of credit to the PLT SGT for letting me focus on tactics, and the E-6 for being Tank Gods.

Response by MSgt Marvin Kinderknecht made Apr 11 at 2016 12:56 PM

MSgt Marvin Kinderknecht — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 12:56:36 -0400

May god bless you for your compassion and fortitude. I would not give a rice cake to your officer.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2016 9:17 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Apr 2016 21:17:39 -0400

Going to Iraq healthy n returning Healthy, along with graduating from DS School! HOO-AH

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made Apr 14 at 2016 9:04 PM

SGT Paul Mackay — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 21:04:56 -0400

being released from illegal detention

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Apr 15 at 2016 9:25 PM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Fri, 15 Apr 2016 21:25:09 -0400

My Tank Platoon being REDCON1

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2016 6:57 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Apr 2016 18:57:00 -0400

leaving vn in 67

Response by LT Everett Suchland made Apr 26 at 2016 5:32 PM

LT Everett Suchland — Tue, 26 Apr 2016 17:32:48 -0400

Wintering Over at Byrd Station during the Navy's Operation Deep Freeze '67. This entailed being at the research station living in tunnels for approximately 13 months.

Response by CPL Wilfred Roberge made Apr 27 at 2016 9:33 PM

CPL Wilfred Roberge — Wed, 27 Apr 2016 21:33:45 -0400

Very bittersweet one was showing up at my retired Command Sergeant Major's Funeral and Wake. We were a tight-knit and laid back type of unit and you could tell it made his wife feel good to know that his soldiers still cared to show up at his funeral. She introduced me as one of his soldiers and bragged about how nice it was for me to invite him and her to my wedding.
Funeral details always were tough but rewarding.