Posted on Nov 23, 2013

What was your proudest "military moment?"

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We've all had many memorable moments throughout our careers, and among these there's likely that one defining experience, which stands above them all. Perhaps it was a school or training experience, a family member's graduation or retirement, assuming command or leadership position, selection for a special program, or something altogether different... in a military career, there has been many of those defining moments and memorable experiences, what was yours? Please feel free to share photos, links, video, audio files or anything else needed to help tell your story. Similar to everyone having their own reasons for joining the military, each of us has a unique story to tell, and a most memorable event or proudest moment in your career. I've heard some amazing stories over the years, so I'm certain that you all have some great moments to share; I look forward to hearing your amazing stories, thank you for all that you do, and... see you all in the discussion threads! 

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Military Career Train2

Edited >1 y ago

Posted 12 y ago

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Responses: 79

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SPC Charles Brown

Posted >1 y ago

What was your proudest "military moment?"

My proudest military moments were being able to serve with two different generations of soldiers. My first 9 years were from 1979 until 1988 where I served in all three components of the Army. After which I left the service a bit disillusioned but still dedicated to being a soldier. I returned to active duty in 1999 after an 11 year vacation. The thing that makes me proud of this was that I had to complete basic training at the tender age of 36. I was the oldest member of my company. I did my AIT at Fort Lee, Virginia and was sent to Fort Drum where I served in what I believe is the finest division (10th Mountain; Climb to Glory), and the best infantry unit 4th BN. 31st Infantry Regiment in the Army today. The soldiers I worked with were the best trained and most motivated soldiers I have ever met. It was my honor to serve with these Officers and Soldiers of all ranks, and if possible I would do it all over again. It is with pride that I call them my family and friends. God bless them all and those who never returned from combat may you rest in peace, I will see you on the other side.

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SFC Gary (Bigsarge) Portier USARMY RET.

Posted 12 y ago

Becoming and Being a Total Army Instructor.

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Col (Join to see)

Posted 12 y ago

In order to encourage maximum discussion, here are just a few related topics that you may find interesting; thank you for all that you do, and... see you all in the discussion threads!

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Col (Join to see)

12 y

Here's a great thread on a topic that should be "near-and-dear" to any leader worth their salt... check it out here: https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/what-achievements-by-your-subordinates-are-you-most-proud-of

RallyPoint | What achievements by your subordinates are you most proud of?

I'm a firm believer that if you take care of your subordinates (or other service members), they'll take care of you.It's been true in my career and I'm sure it's more common then we're aware of.What's...

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Col (Join to see)

>1 y

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/promotion-ceremonies-how-do-you-do-it

Promotion Ceremonies: How do YOU do it? | RallyPoint

I saw a post of somebody getting promoted and saw a few things that the Corps would never allow and that interested me in asking how you were promoted or how your branch of service conducts promotion ceremonies. For Marines, promotion to Sergeant and below typically have the entire platoon and sometimes company formed up to promote the Marine (even if it's to PFC). These Marines typically do not get any say in how they want to be promoted....

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SFC James Baber

Posted 12 y ago

I think this is a good thread for those we are trying to get to join can see the substance of some things we discuss between us as current and former military, soft spoken as well as informational and mentoring types of postings.

We also have fun at times while remaining professional.

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Lt Col Don Daugherty

Posted 12 y ago

Taking my commissioning oath in 1991 & feeling like a genuine member of the military. Being associated with such devoted and committed individuals, and their families, is humbling. You represent the best of America! Every day I read your stories and they never cease to amaze me.

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SPC (Join to see)

Posted 12 y ago

I'm very new to being a soldier and I hope I have many more proud experiences to come, but to date it was turning my chute in after my fifth jump at Airborne School. I had seen Band of Brothers a dozen times prior to joining and always wanted to be a paratrooper. I felt like I could do anything and I had never had a smile so wide.

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SFC Michael Hasbun

Posted 12 y ago

For me, it was graduating the Small Arms Master Marksman (Small Arms Master Gunner) Course BEFORE they lowered the standard on it to address the high failure rate. It was fun watching people fail left and right, knowing you were still in there. It's a shame they watered down that course...

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CDR Richard Tucker

Posted 12 y ago

I have 2 moments that are my proudest. NR 1- I was a First Class petty Officer onboard USS Truett FF1095. I had been onboard almost 6 years and I was looking to transfer to shore duty. The Commanding Officer sent for me and started telling me that it was my duty to remain with the ship. He stated that he knew I was over the 5 year requirement but he would greatly appreciate it if I stayed until June of the following year. I knew the ship`s schedule and knew there were no deployments coming so I asked him what was so special about that date. He responded `That is my change of command` He told me that I was a pass down item for CO`s because I would work on any area of the ship at anytime and he anted his ace in the hole. I thanked him but told him it was time for me to go. I will never forget the feeling it gave me.

NR 2- USS Saratoga CV60, first job as a new prior service Ensign. We were Anchored off the coast in the Adriatic and had a 3 inch hole in the bottom of the ship. An old flange had rusted away. Lots of pressure coming in below the waterline. Our guys were busting hump trying to fix, Eventually Me and the Warrant Main Engines Officer were left with the task. I guess you could say we were both rather salty. We made the repair and looked like a couple of drowned rats. I stood up and then noticed the CO had been standing there watching the whole affair. We both received a personal letter from him that had some absolutely glowing comments.

I have many fine memories from 31 years, but these are the two favorites.

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SSgt (Join to see)

Posted 12 y ago

SPC Hayward. It was a miracle for everyone involved in that it met everyone's need and plus, I believe Jackie wanted to keep the baby anyway. Just a cool story there.

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What was your proudest "military moment?"

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