What Was Your Best Experience With a Superior While Serving? Share and Be Entered to Win!

RallyPoint News — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 08:52:35 -0400

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Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Aug 16 at 2021 8:58 AM

Lt Col Charlie Brown — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 08:58:40 -0400

I worked for an amazing General Officer who trusted me to lead my troops and make decisions. Best time of my career!

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Aug 16 at 2021 9:00 AM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 09:00:08 -0400

serving while in the combat zone, getting the mission done in OIF-1.

Response by LTC John Shaw made Aug 16 at 2021 9:50 AM

LTC John Shaw — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 09:50:13 -0400

While in Kandahar in 2010 -11, I had to task units based in KAF to man entry control points, security for the bazaar, quick reaction force, random security, health and welfare inspections. The vast majority of services, general officers, Colonels and CSM supported these efforts with a little explanation and coordination among the US and NATO troops. It was a difficult year and not every service cooperated but most the leadership responded in the way we expect our leaders to act.

Response by SMSgt Jeff Kyle made Aug 17 at 2021 5:51 PM

SMSgt Jeff Kyle — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 17:51:41 -0400

I was just returning from a very difficult TDY. It was supposed to be a routine air show. It turned into a freaking mess! A Canadian helicopter crashed right in front of show central. Stuff went crazy. A local National Guardsman passed on a request for assistance. Since I was the closest thing to a qualified mechanic, I went and helped. When I got back to home base, the Maintenance Officer met me at the flight line. He wanted all the details of what occurred. So I wrote them down and turned them over to him. A short time later, I was presented a medal. Totally floored me! First time ever for an officer to go out of the way to thank me for a difficult job.

Response by CSM Chuck Stafford made Aug 18 at 2021 7:21 PM

CSM Chuck Stafford — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 19:21:50 -0400

Sitting on green ramp at Bragg in the middle of the night and the Bn CSM sits down and simply chatted with PFC me for 10 minutes about life things, not military things

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Aug 18 at 2021 7:28 PM

Cpl Vic Burk — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 19:28:43 -0400

Believe it or not it was when I got a field grade Article 15 in boot camp. I was a cocky seventeen year old kid that got knocked down to size while doing ten days hard labor on the rock pile. The Colonel probably could have thrown me out but gave me another chance and let me stay and finish training. I have never forgot that. It lined my a$$ up and I never got another article 15 the rest of the time I was in.

Response by SGT Christiphor Ballestero made Aug 18 at 2021 7:29 PM

SGT Christiphor Ballestero — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 19:29:12 -0400

Hunter Army Airfield, more than a couple years ago, I had a younger Captain that had recently fathered a child. Being the Supply Sergeant I was working late trying to get things in order for our upcoming deployment. The orderly room lights were on and upon investigating I found the Captain still working. I looked at him and him and said 'kid, go home and spend time with your new baby before we deploy.' The Captain looked at me and said 'old man, I don't take work home.' We had a good laugh about it and went home to our respective wives. I kept his books straight and we got along pretty damned well.

Response by SPC Rob Hunker made Aug 18 at 2021 7:36 PM

SPC Rob Hunker — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 19:36:29 -0400

LTC Meany took me on a tour of Camp Rilea in Oregon one time, and treated me like a general. He always called me SGT Major at work, even though I was a SP/4. I always saluted him when I saw him, even in civilian cloths. I really miss my brothers and sisters in the military.

Response by SPC Beth Dubble made Aug 18 at 2021 7:45 PM

SPC Beth Dubble — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 19:45:39 -0400

Soldier coin night...Drill Sargent making sharp left and saying Grandma (with pride). I was a 34 year old teacher at the time I enlisted. Never left me.

Response by SGT James Johnson made Aug 18 at 2021 7:49 PM

SGT James Johnson — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 19:49:27 -0400

Great lieutenant Kidder in viet nam 1968. Took care of us.loved Simon and Garfunkel.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Aug 18 at 2021 7:58 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 19:58:50 -0400

Having my COL tell to shut up and sit down in a staff briefing- that it was His turn to be an Asshole!

Response by LTC Joe Anderson made Aug 18 at 2021 8:00 PM

LTC Joe Anderson — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:00:14 -0400

My best experience with supervisors was at the Defense intelligence Agency. One of my favorite duty stations. I was bummed when that tour ended. Great people and great work being done there. At least back then it was (from 2010 through 2013 almost 14). As a major I was empowered at DIA. I was given the authority and resources to create programs, put soldiers on orders, and get resources where they were needed. Not often you get that freedom and flexibility as an 04. Usually 04's are under the thumbs of 05 and 06's. I was allowed to thrive and the only thing that would have held me back is if I seriously dropped the ball.

Response by SN Brian Evans made Aug 18 at 2021 8:02 PM

SN Brian Evans — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:02:09 -0400

Finding out that most them were "regular" people and didn't think they were better

Response by SGT Michael Roetker made Aug 18 at 2021 8:08 PM

SGT Michael Roetker — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:08:33 -0400

Sitting in the waiting area of Kuwait International Airport with my commanding officer and the rest of my unit awaiting our return to the US after 365 bog.

Response by Cpl Samuel Pope Sr made Aug 18 at 2021 8:21 PM

Cpl Samuel Pope Sr — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:21:24 -0400

In Okinawa, 1974, a SSGT, me, and several L/CLP's worked together to turn around our Platoon. We became the #1 platoon in the company. As a result the entire company caught the "Gung-Ho!" we started and the "Esprit De Corps" grew exponentially. The company followed our platoon's example. Many of us got meritorious promotions.
We were the First platoon to March In Formation for the 3-5 miles to our work building 'Across the Highway' from the base. Yes, we even stopped traffic for the platoon to march across the highway.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2021 8:49 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:49:10 -0400

Sitting on top of a bunker, smoking a cigar with my Master Gunnery Sergeant, watching a poorly executed rocket attack on our position, talking about his time in Vietnam.

Response by CPL Harry Dofner made Aug 18 at 2021 8:54 PM

CPL Harry Dofner — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:54:48 -0400

My Capt. Richard Gregg & I became good friends-about as close as two army guys can be without Fraternization. But he showed me how to be confident in myself and to stand up for what's right. I was reassigned to another base and we lost contact; but I'll always be grateful for the trust he always showed to me, both personally and professionaly.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2021 8:58 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:58:25 -0400

I was stationed in Alaska as a young TSgt/E-6 (pinned it on a few months after arriving). A few months after returning from a very long deployment, I was selected to go to a conference at Hickham AFB, Hawaii with one of our squadron SNCO's (MSgt Ski. At least that is what everyone called him because nobody could pronounce his name). It was great TDY. I learned a lot from the conference, but in reality, I learned more from MSgt Ski. Every night after the conference, we grabbed dinner and had a few drinks on the beach. We would sit back and talk about various things. He gave me a lot of great advice. After we got back, I would swing by his office for some mentoring from time to time. And he would come out and see me. I learned a lot from him.

Response by SGT Andrew Anderson made Aug 18 at 2021 9:11 PM

SGT Andrew Anderson — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 21:11:08 -0400

Although he was not much higher in rank than myself, he was nonetheless, my superior in 1963-1965. He was the squad leader of the weapons squad of which I was a member. Cpl Gartman was unique in the sense that he was one of the newest members of the company and one of the oldest. Cpl Gartman had served 16 years in the Marine Corps, had a break in service and came back to finish his 20+ in the Army. Cpl Gartman was a member of the 1st Marine Division and participated in and was wounded in the battle of Iwo Jima. He was one of the most decorated members of 1/51st Infantry, 4th Armored Div. He was always on the reviewing stand during parades, the Battalion Commander, the XO, the Battalion CSM & Cpl Gartman. Anyway that's the back story. As far as experiences, there are way to many to cover here but suffice it to say he was an experience just knowing him. Later, as my time in the Army moved forward , the one person who was always right there guiding my actions, especially in Vietnam, was Cpl Beazel Gartman. I learned more about the military & life in general from him than anyone else during my 9 years of service.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Aug 18 at 2021 9:24 PM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 21:24:04 -0400

It wasn't a single encounter, it was the entire time we were together, but it can be summed up by a single encounter.

I was an infantry Squad Leader, and our Platoon Leader had PCSed the week prior. We knew there was a new PL inbound, so we were a little worried about what we would get - LTs are a mixed bag. The PSG had the SLs in the CP, going over some random thing or other when in walks the wettest-behind-the-ears fresh-off-the-boat kid you can imagine, looking like a high schooler wearing his daddy's BDUs, with a butter bar right there on his collar. Great... one of THOSE.

This was his introductory speech (paraphrased). I'm your new Platoon Leader, and I don't know jack shit. I expect you to teach me. When we are planning things, I not only *want* you to tell me when I am fucking up, I *expect* you to tell me when I am fucking up. When we are figuring out how to get things done, I want and need your input. You have been doing it longer than me, you know the equipment better than me, and you know your men better than me. Tell me what I need to know. If you don't agree with things when we are in this office, let me know. But... Once we leave this office, there better be absolutely no one who questions who is in charge of this platoon. It is *my* platoon. Don't even think of countering me in front of the troops. Even if you disagree, once we leave this office, it is final. Yes, sir, no sir, and move the fuck out. I promise to listen to what you have to say, and to take it into serious consideration; in turn I expect you to execute, and execute violently when it is time to go to work. Does anyone have any questions? No? Great. PSG, what is the order of the day....

And that is exactly how he ran things. Best PL i have ever served with. Ever. Super humble dude, way smarter than he looked, and a serious desire to get things done, and done right. And he had the utmost respect and confidence in his NCOs - he made us better just because we refused to tarnish the image he had of the entire NCO Corps.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2021 9:27 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 21:27:28 -0400

BN commander specifically asking for me as his SOG for the BN talk. First time I felt like more than a number.

Response by SPC Douglas Bolton made Aug 18 at 2021 9:48 PM

SPC Douglas Bolton — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 21:48:15 -0400

My drill sergeant was tough on me but from his training I became a new person. At the end of basic he nominated me for soldier of the month and put me on an honors marching band.

Response by PO2 Marty Sharpe made Aug 18 at 2021 9:48 PM

PO2 Marty Sharpe — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 21:48:30 -0400

I was captains driver on USS Saint Paul CA 73. He held 2 navy crosses from WWII. He taught me a lot and was a very fine gentleman. W W McCrory was his name and he finished up a Rear Admiral.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Aug 18 at 2021 10:04 PM

SFC Stephen King — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 22:04:47 -0400

Training the XVIII ABN Corps CSM on functional fitness and just having fun

Response by PO3 Mike Keane made Aug 18 at 2021 10:07 PM

PO3 Mike Keane — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 22:07:04 -0400

When my EO called the cutter while I was on duty and had me relieved from duty at midnight to join everyone in downtown Ketchikan, AK for my 21st birthday knowing we were going to be at sea for a while. She was the best Officer I ever worked with.

Response by SSG Byron Hewett made Aug 18 at 2021 10:25 PM

SSG Byron Hewett — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 22:25:02 -0400

My former Commanding General always took the time to keep track of what ever I have been doing in life like when I graduated from the law enforcement academy to took the time to show up, other times he give me call for whatever the occasion was, he was a great mentor and a great guy.

Response by MSgt Aaron Brite made Aug 18 at 2021 10:28 PM

MSgt Aaron Brite — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 22:28:16 -0400

A 180 story. Joined a new ANG unit as a TSgt, traditional weekender and got off on the wrong foot with the then SMSgt. Not long after, realized the shop FT personnel were unionized fed employees first and foremost with no time to train and babysit "GD DSGs" (drill status guardsmen). A cry you could hear muttered or yelled and written across the unit. A few drills of this and I had to file a complaint. Sunday of next drill the base theater was jammed full of FT personnel and leadership and us DSG's saw a lot of dragging tails after. My SMSgt had a few words of apologies for us and things turned around. The younger troops who couldn't give up the superiority complex (SrA chewed me, a TSgt out) soon got the lesson hammered in.
Skip forward a couple years and the SMAgt with a Chief stripe coming down is a good friend of and we work well together having stood up the one of the ANG's first LRS QA offices from scratch. Well the annual awards Commanders Calls rolls around. Our newly minted Chief is up handing out awards and is so new at it, begins the introduction for my award with, "biggest pain in my ass who kept the my ass straight and doing things by the AF manual and getting them done first and right. Cue Colonel, Captain, and the other section Chief looking aghast as I break out laughing.
Yep from PITA to partner. And only coworker from that unit to ever visit my home.

Response by TSgt George Rodriguez made Aug 18 at 2021 10:47 PM

TSgt George Rodriguez — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 22:47:13 -0400

A new 1st Sgt came into the organization at our hospital. He was calling each NCO into his office separately to get to know them. When my turn came I entered his office and laid down a packet of salt on his desk. He asked what that was for and I told him that if he was going to chew my ass out I wanted it to taste good. He laughed and we got along great after that. At the time I was an E-6 Tsgt NCOIC of the internal medicine clinic.

Response by SFC Kevin Turner made Aug 18 at 2021 10:49 PM

SFC Kevin Turner — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 22:49:37 -0400

Jumping a APC with mic lic attached over a revine during combat operations

Response by CPL Paul B. made Aug 18 at 2021 11:06 PM

CPL Paul B. — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 23:06:47 -0400

Shortly after AIT, I was stationed at Camp Casey, South Korea. During the yearly exercise, my commander at the time called me into the tent and asked me. "SPC Buck, I heard it's your Birthday." I said, "Yes sir, I'm 23 years old today." Needless to say we had 32 brand spanking new Paladins. So, long story short. He let me give the first command to "FIRE!!!!" for the exercise.

Response by TSgt Edwin Rollins made Aug 18 at 2021 11:11 PM

TSgt Edwin Rollins — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 23:11:11 -0400

I was very lucky to have served with some of the finest people ever created. The best moment I had with a superior was my first ever deployment to the Middle East. So many laugh till you cry moments.

Response by Sgt Michelle Evans made Aug 18 at 2021 11:21 PM

Sgt Michelle Evans — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 23:21:29 -0400

For Thanksgiving one year while serving in the Air Force at Fairchild AFB in Washington, all of the single enlisted people on base were brought to the Rec Center and served dinner by all of the officers, including my own squadron commander, all the way up through the Base and Wing Commanders as well. It was the best Thanksgiving dinner I ever had.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2021 11:44 PM

MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 23:44:40 -0400

Checked into a new unit and I was trying to fix the mess the previous person in my spot left. It was the middle of the second week and the CWO I worked for said "MSgt, I'm bored...". I couldn't believe it. I definitely wasn't bored. I was trying to fix everything. I said "OK, Sir. I'll play your game, why are you bored?". He answered "because you're doing all the work I was doing". I sat there dumbfounded because he had so much of his own work that he should have been doing but was doing the MSgt's work because it wasn't being done and things were far from where they were supposed to be. It was great because we got to set boundaries and lanes of effort and I got to mentor an amazing Officer and we (and the unit), were all better for it and we made great advances at that unit. We are still great friends to this day and there were many more great adventures that were had.

Response by SPC Jeff Stassin made Aug 18 at 2021 11:50 PM

SPC Jeff Stassin — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 23:50:17 -0400

Way back in 1996 while at 41rst Ordinance Company, we stayed on Rheine Ordinance Barracks (ROB) just out side of Vogelweh, next the old Opel car manufacturer. At the motor pool we had just finally defeated a college graduated butter-bar with no field experience. He really belonged to headquarters and not the motor-pool, we caught him in the office playing "Doom" or "Duke Nukem" the original around that time, too many times to count, he would then turn and act like a 20 year veteran drill sergeant standing all of 5 foot 4 inches maybe 6 inches in his boots and 2 years older than myself at the time. He absolutely ruined the motor pools motivation and comradery. There were no secrets in that motor pool, we short joked him to death loud enough that it was never behind his back and muttered, until he got his ticket to head quarters, as he walked to HQ the angels were bellowing out "AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH"
Our new Lieutenant Osbourne walks in. She is rather good looking, but stern and had a husband that could have been Hulks little brother. Something was different about this Lieutenant, she commanded respect while giving respect, something our motor pool had been missing for sometime. Within her first week, I watched as she left her office, this was the only time that door was being closed and locked, she walks right up to the motor Sargent and bluntly asked is there anything you need help with, same to the transportation Sargent.
After putting in her first parts orders for us, she came out to the motor pool, get this, in coveralls, and proceeded to climb under the old Oshkosh PLS with me and asked me "What are you doing, and How may I help?" If the woman wasn't married I would have asked in that moment. She said give me the grease gun and proceeded to help me grease 110 grease zerks on that vehicle. While under the vehicle she explained to me how she just graduated from the Green to Gold, and came out to Germany with her husband. Our motor pool had been United from a former Specialist to a Bad-Ass 2nd Lieutenant.
For the cherry on top we also received a CW4 Nuendorf (forgive any misspelling) working on his CW5, his office consisted of two chairs, one in next to motor pool sergeants desk, and the other was next to the CO's desk. That year in 1997 we received the USERAR Service, Maintenance, and Safety Award for having the most outstanding and hard working motor pool in Europe (again forgive spelling or right terminology). In my entire career, there were only three other officers that came close to the respect given to and from this lady and gentleman. Thanks you two from the bottom to the top of my heart, for the best experience with the Chain of Command I ever had.

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Aug 19 at 2021 12:13 AM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 00:13:31 -0400

The time I spent with my ETMC, even before the ET-1 list came out, he took me under h is wing and started teaching me how to be a LPO and run my own department.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2021 12:24 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 00:24:49 -0400

When I was a PFC, I went to the Soldier of the Year Board and placed 2nd. The CSM observed my disappointment and took me to the side and I'll never forget "her" talk. She said, "PFC Miles, do not allow this 2nd place finish to stop you from reaching the top. I can see how disappointed you are to place 2nd in the battalion but use this as motivation to study harder to win next year. I believe in you! Just this brief contact with a superior motivated me to not only win Soldier of the year the following year as an E-4, but I went on to win NCO of the year as an E-5 and again as an E-6. I will always remember this and I paid it forward as well while sitting on boards when I noticed the heartbreak and disappointment on Soldiers and NCOs who really wanted to win.

Response by SPC David Roberts made Aug 19 at 2021 12:44 AM

SPC David Roberts — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 00:44:02 -0400

I was a SP4 in the 313th CEWI (Combat Electronics Warfare and Intelligence) Battalion attached to the 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, but I worked in the comm center of the 18th Corps Special Security Office. My boss was Major Mullins who started out as a PVT in the Korean War and was nearing retirement in 1978. He was great.

I was short, about to ETS, and pretty fed up with the military. Although I did my very best at my mission, I wasn't putting much effort into being a strac troop appearance wise.

One morning, I was walking to company area from the motor pool where I had been fixing some crypto gear and the HQ company XO, a 1st LT just transferred from an infantry unit, decided to hassle me about my haircut. Let's just say the length was pushing the regulations. He chewed me out, and ordered me to have it cut during lunch. But our duty section had a bunch of fire extinguishers that were late for their annual inspection and we were about to have an IG inspection. The boss needed this done, so I volunteered to take them to the fire station during my lunch time in my POV. I thought it wouldn't take long and there'd still be time for a quick Army haircut.

It took forever, I didn't have time for the haircut, and after lunch, who should I meet but the XO! He was really mad when he saw my uncut hair and dragged me into the company office. When we got there, he told the 1st Sergeant to write me up for an Article 15 for disobeying a lawful order. I had never been in trouble before, and this was a shock for me.

As the 1st Sergeant started typing away on the appropriate form, I tried to explain about the extinguishers, but he thought I was just BSing him. So I asked him if he would at least call Major Mullins to verify it. He did, and when Major Mullins got on the line, he chewed out that LT so strongly that I could hear him from five feet away. The LT went from smirking to frowning to apologizing as the major told him I was one of his most reliable soldiers and that he had personally sent me out to get those extinguishers checked. He told him that if he ever has a problem with one of his troops, he can bring it to him, but never, never, never, mess with them when they are doing their mission.

The LT put down the phone and the first thing he said was "Top, tear up that Article 15 on Roberts." The next thing he said, was "Roberts, you can go." I didn't see him much after that. I think he was avoiding me.

This was just one example of the many times Major Mullins helped me out. Despite my flaws, he always treated me like a human being and a valuable member of his team and not like some random troop he had to put up with. I'll never forget him. I hope he reads this because I never had a chance to thank him.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Aug 19 at 2021 11:24 AM

MCPO Roger Collins — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 11:24:20 -0400

My senior officers were all replaced during eating time. The new CO (O-6), told me to write my own evaluation with substantiating remarks. Gave myself top 1/5% in all categories. When he read it his comment was, you think you are really good. He smiled and said he agreed. Promoted next cycle.

Response by MGySgt Charles Restifo made Aug 20 at 2021 12:01 AM

MGySgt Charles Restifo — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 00:01:16 -0400

With out a doubt communicating with superior officers that took intelligence offered as "real time" and allowed the exploitation at the delivery or very soon after in order to make a real difference.

Response by SP5 Charles Gould made Aug 20 at 2021 3:04 PM

SP5 Charles Gould — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 15:04:16 -0400

Oct 2, 1966. Recon team, on an insertion into the Rung Sat Special Zone in Vietnam, on an ARVN River Parol boat. VC detonated an underwater mine right under our boat, and I was blown about 50 ft into the river. Unconscious and underwater, 2nd Lt dove in and pulled me to the surface under fire. I was pretty messed-up, but alive. He was a new ROTC butter bar, but made us a believer in him that day. (And in future operations). Changed our minds about ROTC trained Infantry officers, at least that one. Don’t know where he went to school, or where he went, or even if he lived through the war. Strak dude.

Response by PO1 Thomas B. made Aug 20 at 2021 8:05 PM

PO1 Thomas B. — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 20:05:14 -0400

After reporting aboard the USS Preble, my Division LCPO, GMCS Relyea took a green, fresh out of school GMM3 under his wing and showed me the ropes and became a role model for me. The old term was a Sea Daddy. I know it was his job but he seemed to spend more time with me than other guys in the Missile House. I guess he saw more potential in me.

Response by SSG John M Jacobson Sr made Aug 21 at 2021 7:53 AM

SSG John M Jacobson Sr — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 07:53:16 -0400

Being a Visiting Three Star's Driver during an exercise and all we talked about was family and friends. He gave some great advice and then slapped me on the back, shook my hand and gave me his Commanding Generals Coin. That was back in 1982, and I still carry that coin with me every day.

Response by SFC Annette Pittman made Aug 21 at 2021 12:29 PM

SFC Annette Pittman — Sat, 21 Aug 2021 12:29:04 -0400

While stationed in Germany one of my favorite supervisors was SSG Newton. He was a blessing to me with positive words, motivation and determination to keep me moving in the right direction, throughout my military career! A big hug & thanks to SSG Benjamin Newton.

Response by SGT Michael Brand made Aug 22 at 2021 2:07 AM

SGT Michael Brand — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 02:07:44 -0400

Back in 1983, while I was a SGT/E-5 serving with the 5th Special Forces Group at Ft. Bragg, NC, a young 2nd Lt. came and sat down at my table in the mess hall where I was dining alone. He was very open, friendly, & curious about my experiences in the army since he was still in the medical ROTC program, and he was at the Ft. Bragg Hospital as a summer intern. We quickly became friends, and to this day, we're still in touch and still good friends -- 38 years later!

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Aug 22 at 2021 11:43 AM

MSG Thomas Currie — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 11:43:16 -0400

Not directly a personal experience, but one that impacted our entire unit.

Serving with the US tank battalion in Korea we got a new Battalion Commander who seemed genuinely interested in getting the battalion straightened out (it had been the poorest unit i had seen).

One of his orders a little while after arrival was that no tank would be towed back to Camp Casey. Any tank that broke down in the field would be repaired in the field and the crew would stay with the tank until they could drive it back. His staff quickly explained that such an order could apply to organizational level maintenance repairs, but not to support level repairs because 702d Maintenance NEVER operated in the field. His response was "We'll see about that."

I cannot attest to the accuracy of the stories that he went to the Brigade Cdr and the CG about it, but shortly thereafter 702d Maint did start working in the field.

While we appreciated the spirit of the order, the general impression among tank crews was "That order will stand until the first time some commander's tank breaks down in the field."

Sure enough, a while later a commander's tank did break down in the field -- that tank was HQ-66, the Battalion Commander's own tank -- and it had sheared a final drive. For all the non-tankers reading this -- that meant waiting at least a week for a part to be flown in from CONUS and then having support maintenance come to install it (actually to watch the crew do all the work of installing it). No one expected the Bn Cdr to stay with "his" tank, especially since Bn Cdrs rarely even set foot aboard the tank that is nominally theirs.

He shocked the hell out of everyone. Yes, he was at his desk in the Bn Hqs each day, and attending staff meetings and all the usual commander stuff (we later learned that the Bde Cdr had insisted on it), but at 1700 each evening, his jeep driver would stop by the mess hall to pick up mermite cans with supper for four people and a full mermite of coffee, then pick the commander up at Bn Hqs and drive him out to his tank where it had broken down in the field. He had supper and spent the night with the crew, including standing watch; then in the morning his jeep driver would show up with mermites of breakfast and another mermite of coffee. The commander dressed, shaved, and ate breakfast with the crew, then his driver took him back to the Hqs where he spent the day on his usual routine - except that he ate C Rations for lunch (just like his crew in the field). He did this every day until the replacement final drive arrived, that day he stayed in the field with his crew changing the final drive and reinstalling the track, before TCing the tank for the drive back to the motor pool.

This, and hundreds of smaller ways he always kept his word, gave us a battalion that would have followed him to hell and been sure he could lead us back out again (a spirit that was more than evident on August 19th 1976... but that's another story)

Response by SPC Lynda England made Aug 22 at 2021 7:56 PM

SPC Lynda England — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 19:56:32 -0400

After AIT was trying to flag down a cab to head to the airport but couldn’t find one. A brigadier general pulls up and says hop in I’ll take you! Turns out he was from my home state and we had a great conversation before delivering us to airport. Will never forget his kindness.

Response by PFC John Scherback made Aug 22 at 2021 8:33 PM

PFC John Scherback — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 20:33:43 -0400

Ordered too go on an telling my superior.like to .but we just ran out of gas.

Response by CPO William Stoop made Aug 23 at 2021 10:30 PM

CPO William Stoop — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 22:30:48 -0400

Commander Bruce Lewia, my EMO aboard the USS Eisenhower CVN-69. By far the best Officer I served with. The real life conversations we had still stick with me to this day. We served together from 1988-1992. Great person and better mentor and confidant.....

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Aug 24 at 2021 9:12 AM

PVT Mark Zehner — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 09:12:32 -0400

When I was ETSing my Captain came up to me handed me his personal information and told me when I was through with college he'd help me to become an officer! He was never one for compliments but I knew from that point on there was nothing I couldn't do in life! I graduated third in my class from college!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2021 4:07 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 16:07:43 -0400

In the jungles of Panama 1975, an SF sergeant said to us as we looked down a boonie trail path, "When in doubt, back up, regroup, and find the means to accomplish the mission". All the Way!

Response by LCDR Diane Neff made Aug 25 at 2021 6:20 PM

LCDR Diane Neff — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 18:20:40 -0400

My boss refused to let her boss assign me another collateral duty when I had too many hours of work and ended up with pneumonia that would not go away. They were testing me weekly for HIV because my immune system was not responding to anything. She knew that I would do what it took to do the job right, but my assignment plus collateral duties were simply ridiculous. This was during a time when it was considered "fair" to load the unmarried member with off-hours duties because they didn't have a family to take care of. I never minded taking holiday duty so others could be with their families, but having someone in an identical job yet not expected to take on any collaterals simply because they were married was unfair, and my boss stood up for me. It meant a lot to have someone who cared about my well-being.

Response by Cpl Arthur Pence made Aug 25 at 2021 8:11 PM

Cpl Arthur Pence — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 20:11:54 -0400

We had been on Vieques for about three weeks providing comm support for the annual fire-ex and on the day we were leaving we had all the gear stowed in cases and Bags and were sitting around waiting for the truck to carry our gear out. A Lieutenant we didn't know walked up and told us that that there wouldn't be any truck and we should carry all that gear down the hill. Well we figured that there would have to be trucks at the bottom of the hill and they could just damn well drive the half mile and pick up our gear. An hour the Lieutenant was back and livid, cussed us out and told us that if we didn't get that gear down the hill he would be most unhappy. Same discussion, same conclusion. Our First Sargent showed up and said, "Men, I have checked and there are no trucks available until much later and if we want a shot at liberty we've got to get moving." He grabbed a 70 pound antenna crate, threw it on his shoulder and started down the hill. We had all the gear to the staging area in less than 45 minutes.

Response by SGT Sean Ferguson made Aug 25 at 2021 8:15 PM

SGT Sean Ferguson — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 20:15:24 -0400

I would say my most memorable moments with a superior was when I got called into his office and got screamed at for about 15 minutes about not paying on a truck I had supposedly purchased. When he was done he asked if I had anything to say. So I stated I didn't even have my DL yet let alone bought a truck so you obviously have the wrong person and the look on his face was priceless.

Response by AN William Davis made Aug 25 at 2021 8:31 PM

AN William Davis — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 20:31:00 -0400

While serving in the Navy I was put in a situation where I saved lives and millions of dollars worth of air craft. My Commanding officer Was the late Senator John McCain. spoke with him often and received letter of commendation.

Response by PO3 John Deck made Aug 25 at 2021 8:32 PM

PO3 John Deck — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 20:32:48 -0400

I had two immediate supervisors that had a real positive impact on my impressions of the Navy.ADC Cortum and AD1 Ferriera .I was a brand new Airman in VF-31 Tomcatters.I had been with the Squadron about a year and had made Plane Captain.But now fleet wide exam cycles for advancement were coming up and both men had motivated me to try out for Aviation Machinist Mate as my striking career choice.I tested for and made advancement with their help and assistance.They also helped with me to get a tough "C" school once we came back from cruise.

Response by SP5 Norbert Schluessler made Aug 25 at 2021 10:40 PM

SP5 Norbert Schluessler — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 22:40:09 -0400

66 in Quin Nhon I was working in supply for a senior warrant officer that had a required flight to Saigon for a conference and invited me to fly along with him. At the airport he left for the meeting ( taling his golf clubs I have no idea where they come from) I procedded to borrow a hi-lo (it was Sunday and the traffic was low) and load the Caribou with pallets sitting on the termac. When he got back I had the load manifested for his review. the flight back to Quin Nhon was kinda blurry and I don't remember much. I drank several of the Hamms beer (hot ... since sitting on the termac) and was as you say "drunk as a skunk!" We chilled the first several with the fire extinisher but that soon ran out and the rest was rather warm. Even today i can't stand the smell or taste of a Hamms. I woke up late that afternoon as the pallets of beer was unloaded back in Quin Nhon. Sorry no photos ... I left the names off to protect the innocent!

Response by TSgt Pamela Hoelscher made Aug 26 at 2021 12:06 AM

TSgt Pamela Hoelscher — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 00:06:32 -0400

As the first woman supervisor in the lab I worked in at Norton AFB, I had a hard time to getting respect from the men working under me, partly because out of 110 people, only 5 were women, and they didn't want a women giving orders to them.
My supervisor saw my struggle and took me under his wing. He taught me how to supervise others and gain both respect and confidence.
He would have me give someone a task and watched what happened. He intervened only at first, then took off my training wheels.
His help was a great part of me getting confident as a supervisor and adult.
The best thing? Having the men tell me I was the best supervisor they ever had.

Response by LCpl Toby Studabaker made Aug 26 at 2021 12:38 AM

LCpl Toby Studabaker — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 00:38:45 -0400

Over in Afghanistan my platoon CO helped me while I dealt with the loss of my wife just before deploying.

Response by LCDR Claire S. made Aug 26 at 2021 1:07 AM

LCDR Claire S. — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 01:07:32 -0400

My husband was deployed onboard a ship and I hadn't seen him for 6 months. I was stationed on a staff in Washington DC., and was additional duty to an Admiral. When the Admiral heard that my husband's ship was going to stop in Hawaii at the same time that a conference was to take place, he sent me instead of his regular staff member to represent him at the conference, even though I had no special knowledge or skills more than the other officer. To this day I would run in front of bullets for that Admiral.

Response by PO1 Matt Werry made Aug 26 at 2021 1:35 AM

PO1 Matt Werry — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 01:35:43 -0400

As a second class po I was found guilty of article 112a (wrongful use or possession of an illegal substance). For the other two of my shipmates on the submarine, that meant getting kicked out of the Navy. For me It meant that I got to serve for my original six years and then extended for an additional two and a half years. Nobody believes me at first, but I chose not to take the illegal substance. When my CO found this out he did not go light on me, but he let me stay in my rate. When I spoke to him after my punishment he told me that it was because of my good choices and that I made sure my shipmates made it home safely (because I was not under the influence). No one else that I talked to has EVER heard of a single other person to be kept onboard (and in the same rate). The power of honesty, integrity, and looking out for those who need to be brought home safely. I’ve lost too many to such naïveté. Not about to let my friends die in a peace-time drive home. Thank you for believing in me Captain!

Response by SPC Will Thorson made Aug 26 at 2021 6:49 AM

SPC Will Thorson — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 06:49:23 -0400

Best experience with a superior? I got a couple. I'm lucky I only had 2 awful platoon sgts. I had a capt America as a company commander and a medal hunter as a platoon leader. The guys that taught me about being an infantryman, Sgt Heinrichs in Germany. We just got along really well. Sfc Williams. The grandad of plt sgts. Professional but with a kindness, its a not a weakness, i just learned a ton and he made it easy. SFC Harrell. Big guy...more the fatherly type. I was his loader/gunner at NTC which was a boon for me. I was the one who picked up mre for the field and we were getting test boxes. That was 92. When they were doing changes to our food. Even when he was frustrated or pissed at you, he'd give you this look and then carefully explain things. Such a good guy. I'm lucky i didn't have too many sgts that were complete assholes, we've all had them. I'm gonna leave out a ton.. From 2003 on, i lost 23 brothers in Iraq and Afghanistan. Auto one point, i couldn't pick up a newspaper without seeing someone i served with. Sgt Jordan, Sgt Williams, Sgt Olsen, and it goes on and on. Everyone left a mark on my 8 year career. Even the crappy ones. You learn from them how to not lead. Sorry if this kinda went sideways. I couldn't pin point one guy. I was blessed to serve with dozens of ncos and officers that were worth serving with for our country. When I came into service, there were higher ranked sgts that served in Vietnam so there was this experience that up until 2003 or so wasnt there. Sorry guys...i bumbled along. Haha

Response by SN Katheryn Bermann made Aug 26 at 2021 7:36 AM

SN Katheryn Bermann — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 07:36:38 -0400

Last watch I ever stood I busted a 17-year old fresh out of RTC trying to sneak vodka onto a ship. Chief treated me like royalty for about three days.

Response by SSgt John Buono made Aug 26 at 2021 8:09 AM

SSgt John Buono — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 08:09:01 -0400

I have two stories, can’t decide which is better, so I’ll post them both. Oddly, both involve commanding officers.

I had some type of severe illness after hours. All I wanted to do was sleep I had no energy. Couldn’t even really talk. So, my wife calls the after hours medical line for me. Doctor is an asshole to her. Demanded to speak to me, and when I couldn’t talk, told my wife I was “either drunk, stoned, or ‘possibly’ something seriously wrong.” He authorized her to take me to civilian hospital, but ‘ordered’ her, a civilian, to have me report to sick call in the morning, and to have a toxicology report in hand from the hospital. At the end of an all nighter at the local hospital, who laughed at the ‘order’ for a toxicology report because I showed no signs of being drunk or stoned, sent me home to rest. Wife calls the military clinic because I had already missed sick call, and arranged for me to come in clinic later in the day since I had little to no rest in the hospital. That wasn’t good enough for the on-call doctor. One of my commanding officers, Ops commander of the squadron, was apparently golfing buddies with him. So, I get called into the squadron late morning after my clinic appointment, with my squadron commander and Ops commander wanting to know why I disobeyed a direct order. Told them the whole story and they were stunned. Especially the Ops Commander. Ops Commander calls the on-call doctor and chewed his butt. Gets off the phone, tells me I’m good to go, smirks and says “We’ll, I guess me and him aren’t golfing buddies anymore. I can’t believe he would do this to one of my best Desk Sergeants.”

Other story, I pulled over a GS-15 for running a red light that turned out to be the new Services commander. The guy in charge of the gym, chow hall, rec center, etc. and made sure I knew it. I was always the guy that didn’t give tickets unless they were lying or being a butthole, so this guy got a ticket. Reporting instructions for civilian employees were to report to their immediate supervisor within 24 hours or next duty day. He says “My supervisor is Col. (redacted) the Support Group Commander (as if I didn’t know who she was. Remember, I was a Desk Sergeant, so I regularly had to call the high ranking officers in the middle of the night to do notifications. I knew all of them, and they knew me.). I’ll be sure to let her know.” At this point I was tired of this idiot’s attitude, so I pointed at my name on the bottom of the ticket. Told him, “Good, make sure you tell her, Sgt. Buono gave you the ticket.” He replied “Oh, I sure will, and you’ll be sorry you gave me that ticket.” Yea, like I haven’t heard that one before. I was shaking in my boots. Ok, sure, buddy. “Have a good night, sir.” A few nights later, I encountered the Support Group Commander, she was doing post checks (one of the few senior officers that actually came out in the middle of the night). So we chatted for a bit and I asked if she had spoken to the GS15 I wrote a ticket for. Her reply “Yep, I sure did. I told him if Sgt. Buono wrote you a ticket for running a red light, maybe next time you shouldn’t run a red light.”

Response by PO2 Kevin Topping made Aug 26 at 2021 11:21 AM

PO2 Kevin Topping — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 11:21:09 -0400

In the mid 70's, I was serving on the Samuel Gompers, a destroyer tender. A ship came in while we were in Yokokuska with many UHF transmitters that failed an inspection. I was assigned to get them running over the weekend. Sunday, while I had three open at the same time, a Lt, jg came through the ET spaces. He watched awhile and then asked many questions about what I was doing, how UHF worked and such. We spent maybe 20 minutes. But I felt he was truly interested in me and my personal story. About 30 minutes later a PO First Class and a PO second class ET came from off duty offer help. Well I needed it and told them how to help and we had all radios at full spec the next day. I don't know the lt.'s name, but he should have done well with the Navy and life in general. He showed he cared and helped me care also.

Response by PO2 Bill Whalen made Aug 26 at 2021 11:32 AM

PO2 Bill Whalen — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 11:32:21 -0400

I served onboard a ballistic missile submarine. Surfacing and diving was a complicated affair and because it had to be done right it often took a long time. My job was to rig the bridge (on the top of the sail) after surfacing and also before diving. The CO was usually on the bridge -- especially before staying underwater for a long time (months). He and I would be the last of the crew topside, and it became a 10 minute tradition, after I broke down the rig, to smoke a cigar, enjoy the uninterrupted time, and savor the view and the fresh air.

Response by LCDR Michael Pumilia made Aug 26 at 2021 12:24 PM

LCDR Michael Pumilia — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 12:24:43 -0400

I was the Officer of the Deck - Underway on USS Lexington (CVT) during the annual Family Day. The bridge was fairly crowded with our senior officers, their family, and special guests. Flight Ops were underway. Everything was fine until I heard a quiet voice on the bridge intercom say "I've lost steering control." With low voices, myself and the helmsman went through the steps to regain control and shift the steering to the other motor and ship's cable. Certainly didn't want to cause panic on the bridge. Flight ops continued for another 20 minutes. Then the skipper announced it''s time for lunch and invited the officers and guests to proceed to the wardroom. He was the last to leave the bridge, but first he said, "Mike, your professionalism during the steering emergency was outstanding and the bridge team responded excellently to your guidance. I've heard many good things about your ship handling and now I've seen it in duress. Good job." When he was gone, I extended these sentiments to the bridge team.
It's one thing to be put in a leadership position but never forget that it is the team's effort that turns a good piece of work into an excellent one.

Response by PO3 Gary D. Owens made Aug 26 at 2021 3:13 PM

PO3 Gary D. Owens — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 15:13:14 -0400

In 1965 orders came in to NAS Corpus Christi Hospital for a Hospital Corpsman E4 for going to the Marines deploying to Viet Nam. There were only two of us there so as senior to the other man I was picked. My wife and I were good friends with the Hospital Commander and his family a Lt. Col. USN MSC mustang, they knew my wife was 7 months pregnant so a couple weeks later I was told there had been a mistake because I had only 12 months and two weeks left on my enlistent and the orders were for 13 months. I would have gone then but today I thank God that I did not. My Buddy that went is now suffering from many diseases caused by Agent Orange. Very sorry about him. I think but do not know, that he help back just because she was with child and he was not married. By the way, he had been a Corpsman with the Marines in Korea then became an officer.
That is what is called a mustang.

Response by SGT Linda Al-Omair made Aug 26 at 2021 4:02 PM

SGT Linda Al-Omair — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 16:02:56 -0400

I had been out on commitment in the field serving as medic & ambulance driver for 200 OTC training in the woods in FT Benning. The Sgt. Major called me from the ambulance and had me stand in front of all the trainees. He asked the men what size bra cup I had. Then in front of all the men he grabbed my right breast & said he thought they were double D's. My instinct was to punch the MF; however, you can't hit a superior officer. So I reported the incident to my Captain when I returned to base. Nothing was done; so I found the culprits home address on base knocked on the door & told his wife to tell her husband to never touch my breast again. My punishment for interfering in a marriage was to pick the grass out of cracks in sidewalks. The general of post witnessed my endeavor and had is driver stop so he could speak with me. He asked me, "Weren't you soldier of post last month; and if so why are you doing this demeaning task?" I explained what had happened. He became irate & said I new sexual abuse was happening but no women ever report it. I told him we report it and are punished for it. He was immediately on the phone with our Cpt. He told him I was to be given 1 week off. And if another incident of sexual harassment happened to me and he wasn't informed, He would court-martial him. I had a guardian angel for the rest of my time at Fort Benning.

Response by CPT David Gowel made Aug 27 at 2021 10:00 AM

CPT David Gowel — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 10:00:55 -0400

While serving overseas as an O-3, I spent 6 months trying to convince PERSCOM that I should be assigned to a specific billet for my next CONUS duty station and received a "hard no." My boss at the time found a way to get me in front of an O-9 who was in the stratosphere of my chain of command to make the case for why it was in the best interest of the Army to make an exception to policy and place me in that assignment. Within a week of that meeting, I received orders for the job I tried to get but failed on my own. In that experience, my boss, and my boss' boss' boss' boss' taught me how one's rank should be used whenever possible to support the people you lead.

Response by SrA Larry Stewart made Aug 27 at 2021 10:08 AM

SrA Larry Stewart — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 10:08:06 -0400

First off I want to point out that people of higher rank are not a superior. The term superior means that a person (in this context) is gifted in ways that others are not, etc. The post title is better served as "Senior Leaders", "Supervisors", "Ranking officers", etc. Sticking point over.....

For me:

While stationed at Kirtland AFB, I got the benefit of working in a small office assisting service member families. Times started getting rough for me on the family front (so many of us know that pain) and I ended up staying in the transient room of the dorms. One night ended up being particularly bad and I hit several bottles, to the point that I don't remember getting to my room (fortunately this was my lowest point). The next morning I was jolted awake by the dorm manager pounding on my door saying, "Stew (me), MsGT Rog (my supervisor) called and is looking for you, wondering why you are not at work."

"Oh S--T." crosses my mind and basic training pushes me out of bed, through 5 minute prep and I am out to the office. When I get there, luckily no one in the front and I go directly to MsGT Rog's office; still mostly asleep and evidently still smelling heavily of alcohol. I greet Rog with "Sir, I am sorry I am late..." and between my appearance, alcohol odor and the things going on in my life, MsGT Rog just waives it off and takes me to our conference/training room and tells me to sleep it off and we can talk later.

A few months later, I come to find out that MsGT Rog and his supervisor decided to put me in for an out of cycle promotion, even with the missteps I had during my time working for him. He is a man I will truly never forget.

Response by PO1 Dawn Butler made Aug 28 at 2021 2:54 PM

PO1 Dawn Butler — Sat, 28 Aug 2021 14:54:40 -0400

During a long day with a crappy senior officer nagging all day. My direct supervisor, someone that I liked and respected sat down with me and said something that stuck with me the rest of my career in the military. He said, "You will work with some good and some bad people. Learn from them all. From the good, learn what you can and emulate them. From the bad, make sure that you never repeat what they do".

Response by PFC Andrew "Tommy" M. made Aug 29 at 2021 2:43 AM

PFC Andrew "Tommy" M. — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 02:43:57 -0400

I had gotten in trouble for something silly, don't even remember what, but my acting plt. sgt decided to send me and another guy, both of us were drivers, on field duty with Base headquarters. Turned out that all we had to to was shuttle half of their group back to their barracks twice a day, while they were doing their thing we were allowed to go to our barracks and just had to be back to make return trips on time. Well my acting Plt. Sgt. found out what was going on and tried to have both of us changed out for some of his "pet" soldiers, but the Fst. Sgt. that we were assigned to stuck up for us and basically told our sgt. to f-off , and that we were his for the two weeks, was like a paid vacation really.

Also, I was never tasked to do special duty again, lol .

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 29 at 2021 8:09 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 20:09:53 -0400

An Armor Brigade Commander mentored me. People like him are deep thinkers and have a deep reach to provide overhead cover. I think the biggest lesson I learned from him is to recognize the support soldiers. They rarely get thanked. That gave me a great perspective after my tours in aviation and armor.

When I became a REMF I challenged the Finance Detachment to give world class support. That was my combat arms experience speaking. Once the unit reached my expectations, I worked very hard to show my soldiers my gratitude and to develop programs to boost their morale.

I was lucky. I drove to the airfield at Ft Riley and introduced myself to to the helicopter pilots. The door was opened when I said I served in the 160th SOAR for a couple years. I asked them to fly my soldiers around and they were delighted to do so. Every time my soldiers flew in helicopters, I gave them a gift certificate for two large free pizzas to give to the pilots. I had a great relationship with the pilots. They were so good to the soldiers and me in my endeavor to build morale. The pilots were good people.

I laugh. The pilots thought hot dogging in the helicopters would be fun, but the soldiers ended up puking. I kindly asked them to tone down the flights.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2021 7:44 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 07:44:58 -0400

Literally drove up to DIVISION he, ( saw a flag with a star, thought. What the hell, someone here knows something, ha ha) SAT ON THE STEPS, and the CSM walk out, " can I help you?" Yes sir, where the hell do I go? I was a shake and bake, I didn't have AIT...he ended up taking me in his humble to the field, my company was there, he chewed out my NCOIC, because he was supposed to be my sponsor. Lol.

Response by CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton made Aug 30 at 2021 8:59 AM

CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 08:59:21 -0400

DEATH OF COMMANDER:
http://thewall-usa.com/info.asp?recid=38710
LESTER EUGENE OONK
LTC - O5 - Air Force - Regular
His tour began on Aug 31, 1969
Casualty was on Aug 13, 1970
In BIEN HOA, SOUTH VIETNAM
NON-HOSTILE, GROUND CASUALTY
HEART ATTACK
Body was recovered
Panel 08W - Line 108
NOTE: ONLY EIGHTEEN DAYS LEFT ON HIS TOUR:
MY LAST SIX MONTHS OF MY SECOND ONE YEAR TOUR IN VIETNAM WERE SERVED UNDER LT. COL. OONK (AUGUST 69 TO FEBRUARY 1970). I HAVE PHOTOS OF HIM AWARDING CERTIFICATES TO SOUTH VIETNAMESE WORKER, OBSERVING BRIEFING BOARD WITH FIRST SERGEANT AND SOME OTHER PHOTOS I HAVE IN MY FILES. LATER, AFTER HIS DEATH AND I WAS NOTIFIED, I CONTACTED HIS WIFE AND RELATIVES AND SENT CERTAIN ITEMS TO THEM. IT WAS VERY STRESSFUL TO HEAR OF HIS DEATH, BUT HE AND I AND MANY OTHERS WERE UNDER CONSTANT STRESS DURING OUR TIME THERE AND I'M SURE THIS CONTRIBUTED GREATLY TO HIS HEART ATTACK. DURING MY TIME SERVING UNDER HIS COMMAND, I EXPERIENCED A SNIPER ATTACK ON THE BASE WIDE SHUTTLE BUS. THIS ATTACK WAS ONE OF SEVERAL SIMILIAR THAT OCCURRED OVER THE YEAR I WAS AT BIEN HOA AB, RVN. AGAIN, A BUS RIDE WAS KNOWN TO BE SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT. I HAVE THOUGHT LONG AND HARD TO DETERMINE A TIME/DATE FRAME AND MY BEST REMEMBRANCE WOULD BE BETWEEN 1 SEPTEMBER AND 20 DECEMBER 1969. I DO REMEMBER I CAUGHT THE BUS NEAR THE OLD PASSENGER TERMINAL AND TENT AREA, ALONG WITH OTHER PASSENGERS AND DRIVER. MULTIPLE STOPS WERE MADE, PASSENGERS GOT OFF AND ON, AND WE CONTINUED THE ROUTE. IT SEEMS TO ME THAT WE HAD PASSED A BASE SECURITY POLICE OR U.S. ARMY PERIMETER DEFENSE HOWITZER LOCATION AND WERE NEAR THE BASE STEAM BATH AND MASSAGE THERAPY BUILDING, BUT I AM NOT SURE. I WAS NODDING OFF AND SLEEPING MOST OF THE TIME UNTIL THE WINDOW SHATTERED! I UNCONTROLLABLY DEFECATED ON MYSELF AND HAD TO FORCE MYSELF TO RESPOND TO THE CIRCUMSTANCES, WHICH I WAS ILL-PREPARED FOR. MEMORIES OF THE IMMEDIATE AND FOLLOWING CIRCUMSTANCES ARE FADED, JUMBLED AND FEW. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE WINDOW SHATTERED, AND THE OFFICER FELL INTO THE AISLE, I GOT UP AND LEANED OVER HIM AND PLACED MY OPEN HAND OVER HIS NECK/HEAD AND EAR AREA AND PRESSED ON THE SITE HOPING TO STOP THE BLEEDING. THE OFFICER GURGLED A FEW TIMES AS IF TRYING TO SPEAK, BUT IT WAS NOT UNDERSTANDABLE. WITHIN SECONDS OF THE SHATTERED WINDOW, SEVERAL ARMY SOLDIERS CAME FORWARD FROM THE REAR OF THE BUS AND TOOK OVER WITH MORE SPECIFIC AND HELPFUL KNOWLEDGE AND TRAINING. OTHER TIME, DATE AND/OR REVELANT EVENTS ARE OBSCURED BY TIME PASSED. THE AMBULANCE ARRIVED AND TOOK THE OFFICER AWAY, THE BUS PASSENGERS AND DRIVER WERE INTERVIEWED, BUT NONE COULD TELL ANYTHING OTHER THAN "THE WINDOW SHATTERED, THE OFFICER FELL IN TO THE AISLE, AND WE TRIED TO HELP." SHORTLY AFTER THE SNIPER INCIDENT, I WAS CALLED TO LT. COL0NEL OONK'S OFFICE AND WAS ASKED TO RELATE TO HIM WHAT HAPPENED. I TOLD HIM PRETTY MUCH WHAT I WROTE ABOVE. HE ASKED ME HOW I WAS DOING, AND AT THE TIME I NONCHALANTLY RESPONDED THAT I WAS OKAY. COLONEL OONK REQUESTED I COME BACK TO SEE HIM AT ANYTIME FOR COUNSELLING SHOULD I NEED HELP. i DID AVAIL MYSELF OF HIS COUNSELLING OFFER THROUGH DAILY CONTACT AND MOST NOTABLY AFTER A BASE WIDE ATTACK ON JANUARY 5, 1970, WHICH INCLUDED THE AIR TERMINAL COMPLEX. NEW BARRACKS, PASSENGER TERMINAL, CARGO TERMINAL, HAZARDOUS CARGO AREA. AND UNIT VEHICLES, WERE ALL DAMAGED CONSIDERABLY. NOTE: THESE ADMISSIONS OF INADVERTENT BOWEL RELEASES IN TIMES OF STRESS ARE NOT INDICATIVE OF MY ABILITIES TO PERFORM DUTIES, LEAD TROOPS, OR RESPOND TO SITUATIONS. MY PERFORMANCE REPORTS ARE ALL FULLY EARNED AND DOCUMENT MY SERVICE. THEY ARE HOWEVER, INDICATIVE OF MY DEEP CONCERNS FOR LIVES AND INJURIES OF ALL AROUND ME AND MYSELF AS WELL! "MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS, AS SUNG BY DEAN MARTIN," COMES TO MIND, BUT THE LYRICS ARE OF BETTER CIRCUMSTANCES THAN I RELATE HERE.

LTC LESTER EUGENE OONK

LTC LESTER EUGENE OONK web page at theWall-USA Vietnam veterans Memorial page

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made Aug 30 at 2021 3:50 PM

MSgt Mark Bucher — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:50:16 -0400

I took my LtC boss, another visiting LtC out for opening weekend of duck hunting in ND. Shot bunches of ducks, never paid for a meal. I did have to teach them how to properly clean a bird. Never pluck, just skin them and fillet out the breast. Oh well, officers, somebody has to teach them….

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Aug 30 at 2021 4:21 PM

SSG Bill McCoy — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 16:21:36 -0400

I've had two big ones that affected my whole career. The first was at my first duty station after enlisting in the Army. Because of my prior service (Navy Hospital Corpsman), I was made an Army Medic and assigned to Walter Reed (Wash., D.C.). I was assigned from there to the satellite Health Clinic at Ft. Myer, VA as an Ambularnce Driver because I wanted out of the medic field. The clinic's 1st SGT helped me by editing a DF requesting assignment to the MP Corps. It went from three PAGES to three concise PARAGRAPHS, thanks to his knowledge.
The next (related) biggie was while driving the clinic shuttle vehicle back and forth to Walter Reed with service members and retirees getting treatments. At the time, our 29 passenger buss was broke down and I was using one of those six-door "Checker" cab vehicles. The last passnger was a LTC who I asked NOT to sit up front as someone was already there and I didn't like driving with someone RIGHT BESIDE me. He complied and was a 4th person in one of the two rear seats - a tight fit.
A few miles from Watler Reed, the front passenger gasped and fell over onto my lap. I pulled up a side street in a high class neighborhood and ordered EVERONE to get OUT of the vehicle. The Colonel was the only person in uniform. As a SP4 (E4), I "ordered" (literally) the LTC to get in the seat behind me and hold the gentleman. I turned around and sped back to Walter Reed (the guy was breathing), carefully blowing red lights whild flasing the high beams and blowing the horn. Got the guy to the ER and "ordered" the LTC to go in and get a guerney (stretcher) while I got the guy out of the vehicle, layed him on the guerney and rushed him into the ER.
On the way back to pick up those who I left behind, the LTC started asking me for my name, rank, SN and my plans for the Army. It hought I was in some DEEP do-do. When submitting my DF requesting transfer to the MP Corps, I was told at Walter Reed Personnel by the SFC/NCOIC, that it was vitually a NO-GO as the medic MOS was critically short (as was the MP's) and had a reenlistment bonuse of 4 ($10K) versus a renlistment bonus for the MP's of 1 ($2K).
The LTC had me drop him off at the Ft. Myer O Club, saying to me, "You will hear from me, one way or another." I thought I was TOAST! The following week, my Section NCOIC told me to drive the shuttle again telling me to report to Personnel between runs. When I did, the SFC/NCOIC there, pretty much angrily asked, "WHO DO YOU KNOW?!" I asked what he meant and he said, "I told you it would be IMPOSSIBLE to change to the MP's! WHO DO YOU KNOW AT THE FORRESTAL BUILLDING in downtown D.C." Confused, I told him I didn't know what he was talking about.
He more or less tossed a set of orders at me and said, "Tomorro morning, you repoort to the 437th MP Detachemnt! You've been transferred to the MP Corps and will have to do 90 days of OJT! I KNOW that YOU know someone downtown! Some Colonel pulled strings and you're going to the MP Corps and you report tomorow morning at 0700 hrs to Captain Farber, the Detachment Commander!"

Response by SPC Ana Moody-Dash made Sep 1 at 2021 8:04 PM

SPC Ana Moody-Dash — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 20:04:24 -0400

Went to a transit unit that used me and the other female 63S as KP for our whole platoon, while in Saudi. When newly assigned warrent officer came he saw this and started training me on dashboards instead of KP ever other day.

Response by A1C Russell Wilfong made Sep 1 at 2021 8:45 PM

A1C Russell Wilfong — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 20:45:45 -0400

Senior Master Sergeant Smith was an amazing boss and human being. We played racquetball together and run for exercise together and when we were at the office we worked very well together. He really was a mentor to me and I never thought to tell him that he was someone I truly looked up to and admired greatly.

Response by SPC Richard Pazmino made Sep 1 at 2021 9:29 PM

SPC Richard Pazmino — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 21:29:31 -0400

Working with my senior medic in our makeshift clinic, flushing ears and doing foot inspections during deployment.

Response by SPC Ashley T made Sep 1 at 2021 9:59 PM

SPC Ashley T — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 21:59:34 -0400

BDE Sgt Mjr say a contraband poster of Kat Von D in my barracks room and allowed me to keep it because nobody else had a problem with it. He always made me feel like a person and made me feel heard.

Response by CPT Tim Wibking made Sep 1 at 2021 10:58 PM

CPT Tim Wibking — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 22:58:09 -0400

Col Edwards believed in 2nd chances and leading by example. I'll never forget this.

Response by MGySgt Ron Soens made Sep 2 at 2021 9:44 AM

MGySgt Ron Soens — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 09:44:17 -0400

While stationed at MCAS Miramar, my wife, Lisa, became deeply involved with the LINKS program and became good friends with the 3rd Marine Air Wing CG’s wife. LINKS provides new spouses the Lifestyle, Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills in relation to their new life with their Marine. So Lisa was invited to tea I believe at Mrs. Bolden’s house and she drug me along since I was involved with LINKS as well. The girls were chatting and Gen. Bolden happened to be home as well and we began to talk. I knew of his history as an astronaut and casually mentioned my son and his 1st grade class were talking and learning about space. Without hesitation (or prompting from me…) he quickly offered to go to their class and tell them about HIS experience in space! Obviously I said that would be fantastic. He made the time and the kids loved the presentation. What a great and modest man.

Response by SSgt John Westphalen made Sep 2 at 2021 1:58 PM

SSgt John Westphalen — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 13:58:32 -0400

When I was an airman with barely one stripe, I was serving as an orderly room administrative specialist. Though a lowly airman, working in the orderly room meant I worked closely with both the first sergeant and the squadron section commander. I was very fortunate that both the first sergeant and squadron section commander of my unit were intelligent and had good senses of humor.

One day, the squadron section commander, a first lieutenant, had stopped at my desk to ask me a question or tell me something; I forget which. Anyway, when he'd finished, I looked up at him and said, "Thank you, lieutenant; that'll be all." His eyes widened, and he muttered, "Oh, okay..." and walked away. We all had a good laugh!

Response by Sgt Patricia Eggman made Sep 5 at 2021 12:18 AM

Sgt Patricia Eggman — Sun, 05 Sep 2021 00:18:24 -0400

When the new female Lt. stop in front of me during inspection. She said, '"I don't know how you got your shoes that shiny."' Good work.

Response by LCpl Gregory King made Sep 8 at 2021 6:20 PM

LCpl Gregory King — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:20:52 -0400

Knowing we had each others back without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion!! Would die for each other in a heartbeat if needed!! SEMPER FIDELIS

Response by CPL Angelika Guilbe made Sep 8 at 2021 6:21 PM

CPL Angelika Guilbe — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:21:59 -0400

The best experience I shared with a superior is when a superior advocated for me when I endured a sexual assault. And I saw that the higher up could be human.

Response by CW3 Steve Butts made Sep 8 at 2021 6:31 PM

CW3 Steve Butts — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:31:26 -0400

When assigned to 10th SFG as their Group Property Book Warrant, I was introduced to "isolation" prior to deployment (destination does not matter); at some point, the Group Commander informed me that because of my previous performance during a previous assignment he was assigning me as "Team Leader" in addition to my duties as Logistics Operations Officer. When I informed the Commander of my plans to retire, he informed me that retirement was for those who could not cut the mustard and that the lack of manpower necessitated that my retirement papers be placed in the circular file! My future was not only enhanced by assignment with the 10th SFG but resulted in my receiving the Legion of Merit and the personal satisfaction knowing that my survival was solely attributed to the men with whom I was assigned. My life since retirement has been blessed several times when meeting some of these same folks with whom it was a distinct honor to serve and learn life-saving skills from the very best.

Response by SSG Willie Means made Sep 8 at 2021 6:37 PM

SSG Willie Means — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:37:17 -0400

I was an E2 in Bravo Battery Second Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Field Artillery Regiment/B Btry 2/27 FA during Fall Training 1977 at Graffenwhor West Germany. Another Private and myself was on Guard Duty when a Quarter-Ton pulled up and wanted access to Our Wheel Park. The other Private looked at me and wanted to open the gate but I began explaining to the driver that the Command Sergeant Major did not want any vehicles allowed in the Wheel Park once it had been washed down. I noticed the driver kept giving me a subtle head nod towards the passenger seat and was telling me he needed to get in the Wheel Park so they could see if all the vehicles had been parked. I told him again I was sorry but Command Sergeant Major definitely was clear when he told the Batteries He did not want anybody coming in the Wheel Park unless we had received word from Battalion. At this time the passenger spoke up and told me to "Come around here Private!" I went around to the side of the vehicle just as the person was getting out and it was the Command Sergeant Major. The other Private and I both jumped to Attention but He told us to "At-Ease." Then He asked my name and Rank and which Battery was I in. I told Him and He told me "Good Job, and if anybody try to get in, you do just what you just did and tell them what you just told my Driver. We need good Soldiers like you and I'll tell You First Sergeant you was definitely doing your job." I said thank you Command Sergeant Major and at Shift Change the next morning, 'Top'/First Sergeant, told me I had did a good job last night and the Battery Commander heard him. I was given a three-day pass by the Command Sergeant Major and the Battery Commander had the First Sergeant also give me a Four-Day Pass. When I got back to my FDC Section, even my Section Chief had heard about it and I remember he grabbed me by the shoulder and shook me (Our FDC Section was very close and always received praise from the Battery Commander and the other Cadre in the Battery for the job we did in FDC. GOD BLESS!!!

Response by PFC John Barnett made Sep 8 at 2021 7:15 PM

PFC John Barnett — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:15:48 -0400

When the drill sergeant picked us up at reception. I had the same first & last name as the first sergeant. He hated the first sergeant.

Response by CPT Ryan Lee made Sep 8 at 2021 7:22 PM

CPT Ryan Lee — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:22:06 -0400

i was a young XO, stressing, working really late with the company supply team to prepare for a change-of-command property inspection. It was probably 10 p.m. or so. I remember the outgoing commander posting up at my door and said, Hey I want to ask you all (me and the supply team) a question, "Is the Army jacked up?" We all laughed and said, "Hell yeah!" Next, he asked, "If you work 24-hours a day, do you think you'd be able to change that?" We looked at each other and said, "No definitely not." He then said, "Alright. I appreciate everything you all are doing, but you need to go home now. We're going to be ok. Just go home." I smiled at him and he said, "No, seriously, y'all go home." I'll never forget that. I still cherish that moment and that compassionate, mature advice.

Response by Cpl Jacob Herring made Sep 8 at 2021 7:37 PM

Cpl Jacob Herring — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:37:54 -0400

The best memory I think I had was a lateral move Seargent that thought they were God's gift to the Corps. This Seargent decided, during day hours, to travel down to the local exchange and buy items for themself. During the time it takes to travel from our facility to the exchange, he keyed his microphone whilst driving. Unbeknownst to the Seargent in question, they proceeded to partake in singing, particularly songs that go against the image or brand that they are trying to maintain.

The best experience I had, was when I changed platoons and was assigned a Watch Supervisor that genuinely cared about his Marines. He looked after us, mentored us, and became a really good friend. He would spend time with us in each of our posts and would guide us. This was a huge change from my previous platoon, who only cared about their image like it was still Grade School.

Response by Cpl Joshua Wright made Sep 8 at 2021 8:16 PM

Cpl Joshua Wright — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 20:16:44 -0400

Had an amazing talk with my mean as a rattle snake 1st sgt when my son was born.

Response by MSgt Sara Schweppe made Sep 8 at 2021 9:09 PM

MSgt Sara Schweppe — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 21:09:12 -0400

This is how I knew I worked for a quintessential leader. His name was Colonel Todd Starbuck of the 152nd AW in Reno, Nevada. I can't even remember what I did but it was not good. He looked me in the eye and said, "I am going to go before the superiors and defend you but this will never happen again." I have never forgotten that. Instead of throwing me under the bus, he defended and supported me. I have tried to live by this action - not jumping to conclusions, realizing the pain the person is putting on themselves is way more intense than anything I could offer.

Response by SrA Susan Leonard made Sep 8 at 2021 9:15 PM

SrA Susan Leonard — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 21:15:24 -0400

I was pregnant and my car broke down. I was having to walk some days. One day it was really hot and my captain loaned me his car so I could go home for lunch.

Response by SP5 John Hien made Sep 8 at 2021 9:33 PM

SP5 John Hien — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 21:33:00 -0400

My best experience was being led by a tank commander who knew how to keep his teenage crew in line and having a platoon leaders who were always up front, leading us into battle. I spent eighteen months in Vietnam with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and I think it was undoubtedly the best combat unit in Vietnam.

Response by SPC John De Poe made Sep 8 at 2021 10:18 PM

SPC John De Poe — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 22:18:37 -0400

One of my first nights in Germany at my first assignment as the company Radio Repairman., I was taken to town by some of the guys in my platoon. Drank to much and as soon as I hit my bunk, I had to jump up and run to the latrine. I started throwing up as soon as I left our room and continued to do so all the way to the latrine. Our Platoon Sgt. had a room directly across from there. When I had finished in the latrine, the Sgt. was waiting for me in the hall holding a mop and bucket and laughing his butt off. I recall that memory quite often when I am walking down a long hallway.

Response by Capt Stefanie Irwin made Sep 8 at 2021 10:42 PM

Capt Stefanie Irwin — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 22:42:25 -0400

I was a young dumb butterbar who had just rented a house that was a piece of junk and my husband was deployed. My refrigerator was broken in the rental so I asked my OIC for permission to meet the repairman back at the rental (for which I had to pay out of pocket). She completely surprised me by offering her husband’s repair services instead, called him right then and there, and she drove me to my house to meet him there and fix my fridge for free! I’ve never had a boss like that again, one who takes care of their own both on and off duty. If you see this Col Katherine Lowry, thank you!!

Response by SPC Jacqueline Pruitt made Sep 8 at 2021 11:09 PM

SPC Jacqueline Pruitt — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 23:09:38 -0400

When I was on my first rotation to south Korea, I participated in a spur ride. I was apart of a field artillery unit, 1st Cav. The spur ride consisted of ruck marching, the gas chamber, obstacle courses, crawling under barbed wire, just to name a few activities. My SSGT volunteered me to participate in the spur ride and I couldn't have been more shocked. I did not think that I could possibly finish it. I didn't believe in myself. I did not believe I was strong enough. I refused to speak my SSGT for days. I felt she was abusing her superiority.
There's an option to quit the spur ride at any moment, and everyone actually thought I wasn't going to complete it, because they too did not believe I was tough enough. That's when I knew I had to complete the 26 hour nonstop event. I pushed through every activity of the spur ride, marched over 46,000 feet, completed land navigation and battled ankle fatigued.
Once we finished the spur ride, it was the next day, my team was tired, sweaty, dirty and ready for some food and rest.
I found my SSGT later the next day, I told her thank you for volunteering me for it and that it gave me the greatest sense of confidence. Two other soldiers in my unit who participated in the spur ride quit midway and they were teased about it the rest of rotation. I had a sense of pride ever since that day. That SSGT became my favorite NCO. We are still in touch till this day. She reminds me of the spur ride everytime I feel down and depressed about myself. She was, and still is the best part of my military career.

Response by SGT Cornelia Huebscher made Sep 8 at 2021 11:52 PM

SGT Cornelia Huebscher — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 23:52:58 -0400

Being treated like a TEAM member and encouraged to find improvements. Be it, when I was stationed at Ft. Greely, 88M, and designed a better way to store and have better access for the spare tires. Later, when I was 91B in Honolulu at Tripler Army Medical Center, I was invited to do Physician Grand Rounds on Diabetes, that was so awesome. Then US Army MEDDAC Heidelberg Germany, I was able to teach a better triage for children. There were no screaming kids in the ER, even when one needed stiches in the toe, we put a sheet across, numbed the area up needle free, then the kid asked when were we starting, and to tell kid that we were finished. Getting my Advanced Cardiac Support at Travis Air Force base and being the only enlisted soldier there. And a Physician Assistant taught me how to suture. There were so many special moments, I could write a book. I have been totally blessed by good Leadership and I passed this on to my fellow soldiers. The only serious complaint was Military Sexual Trauma, and at that time I was not taken seriously by my NCOIC at the Motor Pool, otherwise very good leadership. I have learned to be there my troops and not barking orders. Bottom line care for your fellow soldiers and be part of a solution. Because of this I was a better supervisor in my civilian life. I think every civilian in a supervisory position should take NCO Leadership courses, learning how to build a team, better communication and overall appreciation. And I surely miss being in the Military.

Response by AN Daniel C Begay made Sep 9 at 2021 12:34 AM

AN Daniel C Begay — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 00:34:42 -0400

When I first got to base, Petty Officer G.... took a shining to me and made me temporarily in charge of the group I came over with to the squadron. He instilled in me the confidence and drive to get me through my time there.
For the next year and half before he retired, his care and open ear was there when I needed it. i remember one time, I felt alone and isolated from my fellow sailors, he assured me that I wasn't alone and I will find my support out there someday. I miss him, wherever he is.

Response by SPC Joseph Goldman made Sep 9 at 2021 1:21 AM

SPC Joseph Goldman — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 01:21:15 -0400

I was drafted 3/4/64, I was a month away from 22,. my college credits dropped below 9. I was Hon. discharged 3/3/66. Fort Hood armored infantry, I made E4T in 10 months. I saw all the combat officers charge to Viet Nam. I maintained radios for 13 M113 APCs, 3 jeeps, and a 1/4 ton truck. My field position, and we war gamed a lot, was with the CO. Battalion strength start 400+ discharge about 125, Nam was ramping up. My CO Captain, and XO 1st Lt, were both from supply. The XO tried to march us like he tried to immatate a southern DI who had a very very very.... bad night, he was told by the Coronal never to march soldiers under his command. The XO signed out my 1/4 ton truck and got lost, we found him. The Coronal told me never give him a vehicle. The XO ordered me to give him the truck, several times to this E4, who said no. He got loud. I told him to call the Coronal.

Response by Sgt Eduardo Mendez made Sep 9 at 2021 2:53 AM

Sgt Eduardo Mendez — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 02:53:54 -0400

As a Sergeant of United States Marines Serving as Staff of the Inspector Instructor, 4th Landing Support Battalion, San Jose. California I was tasked as the Administrative support to The Inspector Instructor as well as handling the reservist we as active duty members were supporting. The exercise was Turbo Intermodal Surge which entailed the complete offload of an MPS (Maritime Prepositioning Ship) from BIC, Blount Island Command, the Active Duty Cadre consisted of a Major, a Captain (USMC O3) one Gunnery Sergeant, one Navy Corpsman Hospital Corpsman Second Class (With Fleet Marine Force Designation and me a Sergeant of United States Marines. My Major now a Lieutenant Colonel head through the active duty grapevine that my birthday was during the offload of the MPS and during the exercise, I attempted to keep it as quiet and under wraps as possible as not to interfere with the exercise, but to no avail. Major Katz was dead set on doing it nice, he ordered a cake be made from the Hotel we were staying (Holiday Inn) Airport Jacksonville, Florida, and tasked the Gunny; Gunnery Sergeant McDougal to get the festivities on! We were a tight bunch as Active duty Inspector Cadre and once all of the Birthday Logistics were completed Major Katz (Who as an Inspector Instruction in the Marine Corps is equivalent to the Commanding Officer) actually he over-sees the Reservist Commanding Officer, he and the Gunny cornered me in the corridor on my way to work on the Green Machine (the Computer in which we input data to get Token Payments for the Reservists) Gunny told me, "Sergeant Mendez, you are in deep $hit, for not reporting to the duty that this is in fact the day you were born on many moons ago" - I told the Gunny that I didn't want to interfere with operations on Turbo Intermodal Surge, but to no avail, Major Katz had a cheese eating grin on his face and said "Mendez you just gave me an excuse to grant some liberty for the Active Duty Cadre" I was bright eyed at this point, Major Katz said "well its your day there Mendez, what do you want to do, go high speed and low drag and end up eating the worm, or more relaxed like eating oysters at Hooters after a good meal of BBQ Ribs, Pulled Pork, Sweet Tea, at Bonos" , I opted for the latter as long as there were some cold beers to go with the festivities we all had a blast at dinner, stopped at Hooters for a few hours and ended up in San Augustine and finally in Daytona, it was a very memorable birthday for me, and Major Katz and Gunny McDougle went WAY, Way above and beyond the call of duty to take care of one of their own Marines on his birthday, I felt Loved and appreciated I did not expect a Commissioned Officer to really go so far out of his way to insure that one of his had a memorable birthday Gunny Mac also made a lot of Major Katz' request come to fruition. This was a textbook example of what exactly sets the Marine Corps apart form the other Services, Marines are and always will be a Band of Brothers and Sisters who above and with some exception rank has it's privilege's but we all wear the same exact uniform we are all from 4 Star General to the boot Private honored and privilegiad to say we are Marines first and foremost. To Lieutenant Colonel Jon Katz, sir I learned how to treat both superiors and subordinates form your tutelage. Thank you and Semper Fi !

Response by PVT Robert Bernhardt made Sep 9 at 2021 8:03 AM

PVT Robert Bernhardt — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:03:06 -0400

My best experience with a superior was with. My First sergeant at the first duty assignment after returning from Vietnam. We had heart to heart conversations on subjects like if we believed in killing.Neither of us did. For instance, I asked him why he was in the Army. He said “I’ve got 17 years in and retire in 3.” I said “I’ve got 3 years in and want out.” He helped me get a discharge.

Response by SPC Laura Triplett made Sep 9 at 2021 8:18 AM

SPC Laura Triplett — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:18:21 -0400

I always felt very “safe” when I walked with the leader of our Company. Captain Marsh treated everyone like they were important. I recall one day we went to get the Jeep from the motor pool and as we were walking, rude male soldiers started whistling and making rude comments behind us…directed at me. I will never forget when Captain Marsh turned around and gave them a verbal warning about such actions!

I also remember walking to the office to work one day and passed a “soldier”. He turned around reprimanding me that I did not salute him, as he was an officer! He wanted to turn me in, so I said ok, lets go to the office and you can turn me in. He is the one that got the works over! He looked as if he slept in his uniform for days and did not have a hat on. Captain Marsh had him apologize and he proceeded to write a letter to his superior Officer. I feel that our Captain had our back when we needed to have support!

Response by TSgt Donnie Hargrove made Sep 9 at 2021 8:22 AM

TSgt Donnie Hargrove — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:22:11 -0400

It was Oct 1980. I had been at my first Station for maybe 2 weeks. The NCOIC of the Clinic, MSgt Dube' took me to a lunch meeting and we just sat and talked. He asked why I enlisted, why the I chose the Medical Field and what were my goals while serving. Then just chatted about anything that came to mind for the whole hour or so. It impressed me so much, that for the next 20 years ever time I had a new member arrive I always made time to sit with them and chat as a friend before I set into the role as Supervisor.

Response by PO3 Monica Zink Davenport made Sep 9 at 2021 8:32 AM

PO3 Monica Zink Davenport — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:32:07 -0400

LTJG Ambach, Camp Pendleton, 52 Area Clinic. I was late, I went to tell him I’d arrived and was about to explain why..I’ll never forget..he told me apologize without giving excuses the excuses diminish the apology..I will/have carried this with me always!

Response by SPC Trevor Pearsall made Sep 9 at 2021 8:50 AM

SPC Trevor Pearsall — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:50:24 -0400

The best encounter I ever had with a superior happened one night during a training exercise. It was winter and the temperature at that point was hovering around 10 degrees. While every other leader was huddled around a fire in the center of our position, my squad leader was out there with his men, trooping the line, checking our morale, and encouraging us. He could have hung out with his peers and stayed warm by the fire, but he didn't because his men were out there, in the cold, doing their job, and so was he. That moment made my respect and devotion to him as a leader unwavering.

Response by SPC Trevor Pearsall made Sep 9 at 2021 8:51 AM

SPC Trevor Pearsall — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:51:32 -0400

Response by SGT Michael Futrell made Sep 9 at 2021 9:17 AM

SGT Michael Futrell — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 09:17:46 -0400

During a hot Fort Gordon summer, we were stuck doing a company change of command ceremony in full battle-rattle. We'd "practiced" for hours, without any of the command present obviously, and were all dying for the ceremony to end so we could get our kevlars off and get out of the sun. Our outgoing commander was not well liked, she didn't change that feeling by giving a LONG farewell speech that none of the soldiers in formation could care less about. When it finally came time for our incoming commander to speak, we were all anticipating to hear his life story and all his plans for the next 10 years... but no!

He basically said "Hi, I'm Captain NewGuy, I'm proud to be taking command of bravo company, that is all"

Needless to say, he was a good commander and he definitely started off on the right foot.

Response by SFC Leon Amer made Sep 9 at 2021 9:39 AM

SFC Leon Amer — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 09:39:35 -0400

First unit stateside at Ft Bragg after Germany straight out of AIT, don't recall his name but I remember his face ... and position, a Major, our Bn S3. I arrived there as a SGT, and got sort of dual-slotted in S3 and Bn FDC, as the 3 Shop had a computer terminal that was intended to help the Ops folks stay updated on the firing batteries' activities and be a source for them to send movement orders and such. This is mid 1980s. Fast forward 10 years or so, late 90s, I'm a new SFC instructor at the Field Artillery School at Ft Sill. A TDY trip assignment to Ft Drum, NY is available. I'd been on one of these before as a SSG, the junior of a 2-man team. This time my section chief slots me as team leader of 3. We have to hand-carry the classified hard drives with which we need to upgrade the systems the 10th Mountain artillery folks are using, which creates some hassles with airport security in Chicago where we need to connect flights. Bad weather in early Feb. has us missing our connection from Dallas through O'Hare to Syracuse, NY, so we scramble to get the next bird of any airline bound for SYR. We make it to Drum Friday night in our rental car with our carry-on bags and the hard drives. Checked bags AWOL. Saturday we get into our classroom where the computers are already set up for our 2-week class and get busy on the software upgrades in our civvies. We're thinking we might need to start class Monday 0800 in civvies and wing it from memory if our checked bags don't catch up with us ... not to mention fresh socks, undies, lesson outlines, practical exercise booklets, etc. Halftime of the SuperBowl we get a call from the on-post motel front desk saying our bags have arrived from the Syracuse airport. Yay! Guess who is the Division Artillery Commander of 10th Mountain Division now? Yup, COL (Bn S3 from Bragg)! He remembers me as a sharp, squared away NCO, tells his staff to be as helpful as possible if we need admin support, like copying, phone access back to Sill, etc. (unlike the lukewarm treatment we got on previous trip from previous Cmdr). Our last night at Drum before returning to Sill he even invites my team to dinner in Watertown as a "thank you". Next monthly promotion and award assembly (in schoolhouse lecture hall) I get a surprise - that COL wrote my whole team up for ARCOM's.

Response by CPL Patrick Lake made Sep 9 at 2021 9:58 AM

CPL Patrick Lake — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 09:58:17 -0400

Being put on a medivav in 1969 by Captain Kern Dunigan, a Medal of honor recipient

Response by SMSgt Robert Crawford made Sep 9 at 2021 11:11 AM

SMSgt Robert Crawford — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 11:11:08 -0400

I had a Squadron Commander (BA) when I was a young SSgt. He was a Gulf War POW (Capt) and he was probably the most effective and yet humble commander I had in my entire 26 year career. He later came back as our Group CC (COL) and he was still the same person. I requested him to re-enlist me before my PCS as a M(Sgt) and he remembered who I was. Before we did the re-enlistment we sat down in is office and talked about the AF his time as POW and my time stationed at Mtn. Home. He is one of those guys you can say you were proud to have worked for.

Response by SGT Carl Watson made Sep 9 at 2021 11:11 AM

SGT Carl Watson — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 11:11:58 -0400

Being recognized for the good work that I was doing as an aircraft mechanic by an E-7 and CO who referred me to Cobra training then after training making me a crew chief.

Response by Sgt Les Dz made Sep 9 at 2021 3:47 PM

Sgt Les Dz — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 15:47:16 -0400

When I first enlisted in the Marine Corps I was so excited that I would be getting a chance to see the world, learn how to fight and maybe even buy myself a charger with 27% interest, as dumb jr enlisted tend to do. As we all know, that's not the way it ever goes, well..maybe the charger part. Anyways, I absolutely hated the Marine Corps and was a SysAd at the time and on one particular occasion, myself and a few other Lcpls had just finished setting up a computer network with Korea and everything was running smoothly. I'll spare you the jargon but a hotshot Major comes in and tells me that we have to redo everything because he doesn't think we set everything up correctly. I insist that everything is perfect, we spent literal days working on this setup and I was not about to take everything down. I went over everything, step by step , and he kept interrupting me and telling me I was wrong. I'm getting pretty heated by now but I'm in a room full of officers so there's not much I could do. I decide I'm done listening to this idiot so I tell him "Sir, everything is setup perfect and I'm not wrong here. You're wrong! Stop telling me how to do a job you have no idea how to do." As you can imagine he was PISSED! The guy was ripping me a new one, I though he was going to put hands on me, when out of nowhere comes in SgtMaj H who tells Major Hotshot to "calm tf down". SgtMaj H backed me up and told the Major that I was entirely right and that he had no F-ing idea how to do my job. It was the greatest feeling I've every felt while enlisted. Looking back, I shouldn't have done that, I was being an ass. I was so bitter about my time in the Marines and the good memories are very few but this right here...this was one of the highlights.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2021 5:20 PM

MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 17:20:33 -0400

We had the opportunity to test some new equipment which would greatly benefit our unit and possibly more. We ended up making some 'illegal' modifications to some vehicles to make it all work and we had amazing results. We kept our RGT CO in the loop the whole time and he loved what we were providing him in capabilities. We had an inspection team come down and they tried to hammer us for the modifications we made, and usually things never went well for us because a lot of COs use CYA. The CO didn't even bat an eye, said he authorized it (which is not entirely true and he knew it, and we knew it), and said "was there anything else?". The inspectors were dumbfounded, said no, and left. Our CO didn't mention it to the group ever and let us continue to do our thing. He earned mass respect for that and we fought even harder for him. We had some long nights and weekends but we were proud of what we were doing. Once people started rotating and new staff arrived, the CO would only talk to me and that really irritated my immediate supervisors, but they never tried to learn everything or figure out the CO's intent. Once the CO left my days were numbered there too and I happily left to my next unit who by-name requested me to do the same type of innovations there too.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2021 5:26 PM

MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 17:26:39 -0400

At my next unit I started hot and heavy and trying new things and getting the unit back to where they needed to be. I was very surprised how little the guy I replaced did and 45 days into my tour I was due for a performance evaluation. Usually everything under 90 days is consider Unobserved and I expected that outcome. Next thing I know I received an Observed 45 day performance evaluation that was that Officer's #1 overall report that was ahead of (2) 365 day Observed reports for the guy I replaced. I was in shock and didn't think that was fair to the other guy (though inside I definitely knew I earned it) but the Officer insisted and pushed it all the way to the top for review because that was very unusual. That Officer earned my respect, and even more so, because he was very good friends with the other guy but didn't want to do ME dirty. That was a great time and a great unit.

Response by Andrea Gillum made Sep 9 at 2021 7:34 PM

Andrea Gillum — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 19:34:00 -0400

going to pizza hut

Response by SrA Richard Harvey made Sep 10 at 2021 9:56 PM

SrA Richard Harvey — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 21:56:13 -0400

When I met my new C.O. when he came to Thailand. He tapped me on the shoulder (down town, Ubon Thailand) and said, "I am your new commander and I am buying you a beer, and I want to see you in my office, first thing in the morning. He was so cool.Major Robert E. Lee got fired and Major "T" got pulled from going to Nam, and they sent Lee to Nam instead. His name is Major William I. Thibedoux. I hope I spelled it correctly. I would love to meet him again.

Response by SSG Ronald Lindsey made Sep 11 at 2021 2:34 PM

SSG Ronald Lindsey — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 14:34:35 -0400

autumn reforger 1983 I NBCNCO/ Co. driver my wife and one of my buddies wife figured out where we were from the Chaplin and brought out a big bag of brotchen and brots to us and our platoons and the Captain was pretty cool about it and got a good laugh out of it then looked at the girls and said that was really sweet of you but please do not do it again

Response by RallyPoint News made Sep 16 at 2021 9:38 AM

RallyPoint News — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 09:38:32 -0400

Congratulations to MSG Private RallyPoint Member, SPC Mark Huddleston, SFC Casey O'Mally, Sgt Eduardo Mendez, and SPC Laura Triplett! 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 their stories!

Response by MSgt George Murray made Sep 19 at 2021 5:14 PM

MSgt George Murray — Sun, 19 Sep 2021 17:14:40 -0400

Oh this is easy, thanks for the question. I was in Panama and my NCOIC was Sgt. Hightower. When I arrived on base I had my meeting with him and I told him I was one of those guys that volunteer. He liked it because most of the guys in Transportation didn't do that. I got to go to all the countries in central and south America. When I got my TDY orders for Vietnam he came along also. He was E7 and I was E4 at the time.

Response by SSG Robert Ercolini made Sep 20 at 2021 6:15 PM

SSG Robert Ercolini — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 18:15:47 -0400

I enlisted in the Regular Army December 3, 1954 and was sent to Ft. Dix NJ for my basic training. Two years prior to this I joined the Mass. Nat. Guard. Since I was the only recruit in my platoon with prior military training, I was made "Acting Platoon Leader" on my second or third day. Our training officer was Lt. (JOHN) Thompson. Over the eight week period, he assigned me many various duties, which I tried to preform as best I could. Because of the growing respect I had developed for him which I hoped was mutual, I was doggedly determined not to let him down. At the end of this period of our training, we were told that we had one last phase to complete- a full gear forced march at double time which was, if I recall correctly, 4 miles long. 2 miles through a forrest trail the first half and 2 miles on beach sand for the second half. I was at the head of our platoon and as we advanced along into the beach sand area, I was beginning to falter. Further in, I was seriously faltering and a feeling of dread came over me. A few yards further and suddenly I felt someone grab the back of my collar and was pulling me along and the next thing I heard was "Do not even think about it" ! I can not tell you what it was, but suddenly I was faltering a lot less and was determined to finish at the head of our platoon, even if I had to cough up my lungs to do it. I admired and respected him and have never forgotten him through out my life! I was a white boy from Boston, and he was a young black man from (not quite sure) the South. In the years that followed, I have looked upon this and my remaining time in the Army, as my Epiphany into manhood. SSgt R.A. Ercolini

Response by PO2 Jack Steiner made Sep 20 at 2021 9:45 PM

PO2 Jack Steiner — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 21:45:13 -0400

The Commodore's AC went out off the coast off Vietnam in stiffening heat, compressor was bad, none available without a long wait, but a watercooler compressor onboard, with a hammer, bowed the back wall of AC unit and was able to have it working n 1 day. Best friend I had, when he would take the motor launch out when we were in port he always request me for an engineman, then have a basket of fried chicken and the fixens for the boat crew. we usually went to some remote place with his GF in that port, we would go off and swim and whatever and have a picnic, real great duty.

Response by PFC Robert Avants made Sep 25 at 2021 4:34 PM

PFC Robert Avants — Sat, 25 Sep 2021 16:34:42 -0400

My basic training Co, Capt Patrick J Ronan, kept me out of trouble, because he forgot, to notify 1st Sgt I had been sent home for 7days on emerg leave, he's the one who came and got me and took me to the airport.

Response by CPT Kurk Harris made Oct 28 at 2021 7:50 PM

CPT Kurk Harris — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 19:50:48 -0400

I was an Infantry (11C) Specialist in the Army. I had just failed Land Navigation at Expert Infantryman Badge testing because I changed a point on my score sheet when somebody else told me they had the same point, and they were sure I was wrong. I told SSG Brinston what happened. He looked dead in my soul and told me that if I failed the next day that would be fine. He’d personally teach me what I needed to know in land navigation, but if I failed because I second-guessed myself or trusted someone else more than I did myself that he didn’t want me back in the platoon. He didn’t need soldiers who didn’t believe in themselves. The next day, I went back out to do navigation and sure enough some “hero” out there tried to “check my answers”. I heard SSG Brinston’s words in my head and told the dude to pack sand. I finished the navigation course and had gotten all 5 of my points correct. I never missed another land navigation point again after that. In fact, I never failed another anything the rest of my time in the Army. To this day, more than 27 years later I still hear his words every time I start to doubt myself. That challenge he gave me has become one of the greatest gifts I was ever given in my life. Cheers to you SSG Brinston, wherever you are.

Response by MSgt Brian Williams made Oct 29 at 2021 1:13 PM

MSgt Brian Williams — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:13:44 -0400

As an AIC I traveled around PACAF for about 3 weeks with a CMSgt doing COMSEC briefings prior to the TEAM SPIRIT exercises. It was my first time doing anything of that magnitude and Chief gave me the responsibility of putting the briefing together and presenting it. The Chief took take care everything else. After a briefing I heard a Colonel tell Chief that my briefing should be given to the all the personnel coming in theater for the exercise. I was stoked and hoped that I would get the chance the following year but I went PCS 2 months before. That was my introduction to what a Chief in the Air Force was supposed to be. Only strike against for me being a North Carolina fan, was he was a Duke fan. Great guy!

Response by Pvt SanJuana Méndez made Nov 12 at 2021 6:45 PM

Pvt SanJuana Méndez — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 18:45:37 -0500

My best experience with a superior was when I was at standby waiting to be discharged. Don't remember her name but the LT saw I was " eat up" with my siblings who had recently become orphans, concerned that I (their matron) was not there to help them adjust.

She decided to ask me prepare for a gala that was being given to General Braddock ask me to embroider gold stars on red satin with the general's name, to be used in cushion for him. Don't remember if I finished the task but I do remember bringing home cloth I'd been embroidering on. In any event, I felt honored at being given that task to distract me.

Response by Cpl David Miller made Nov 16 at 2021 1:29 PM

Cpl David Miller — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 13:29:36 -0500

During my first tour in Vietnam in 1969, our squadron gunnery sergeant invited several of the Crew Chiefs (HMM-265) to his hootch to celebrate his rotation back home and his ultimate retirement. He broke out a bottle of whiskey and we passed it around (my first taste of straight bourbon). He told a few stories from Korea and previous tour in Vietnam. Then he proceeded to give each of us a momento, which included a holster for a .38, a flashlight-green gooseneck, wire pliers and similar things that many of us already had. He gave me his K-bar that according to him was given to him by his gunnery sergeant in Korea, which had been given to him in World War II by a senior NCO. I don't know why he gave me such a valuable treasure. It has been a treasure to me ever since. I think of that gunnery sergeant often because he also gave me great leadership in establishing my trade as a mechanic in the squadron.