Where would we be without military service?

PV2 Greg Hitchcock — Tue, 01 Apr 2014 06:05:17 -0400

Many people say, including our drill instructors and post commanders, that the military transforms confused teens in to mature adults able to handle any situation and willing to offer help at a moment's notice.

Do you believe we would have been different people today without the training the military offers? In what way?

What does it mean to be a veteran or on active duty compared with those who remained civilians?

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Apr 1 at 2014 7:33 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Tue, 01 Apr 2014 07:33:53 -0400

The military definitely has a positive influence on youth-turned-adults in our society. Look at the other options...

There are good people in all walks of life - whether they served in the military or not - but the discipline, sense of camaraderie, patriotism, leadership skills and ethics that come along with military training are key contributors to our culture. Sure there are some bad apples, but the overwhelming majority of those who come through the service are of great benefit to this country.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Jun 14 at 2014 7:30 AM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 07:30:24 -0400

For me, the military was a chance to give back while paying it forward. I believe in our country and our freedoms and they have been good to me and I want to see that continue for my children. I feel that every citizen should in some way give back to the country, whether through military service, or volunteering.

I probably would be lesser in my experiences and world view had it not been for what the military has given me, and I'm grateful for everyday I had the privilege of putting on a uniform and serving my community, state and country.

Is it for everyone, no. But for those that are drawn to it, its a way of life that stays with you - you can take the SM out of the service, but you can't take the service out of the SM.

Response by MSG Martin C. made Jun 14 at 2014 8:51 PM

MSG Martin C. — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 20:51:44 -0400

I owe so much to the Army it gave me the character and values I lacked growing up. I had a rough upbringing not the best of opportunities but I made a choice an a commitment and the Army did the same. I have no regrets and I would do it all over again.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2014 2:02 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Jun 2014 02:02:12 -0400

Several answers for the several questions:

I think that everyone of us have been affected in some way by our training. maturity, discipline, structure, family, everyone is touched.

To be a veteran or active duty, means we should have a better understanding of what it means to sacrifice. For many we sacrificed careers, money, standing, etc. What was gained, for most, is a deep abiding love and respect for our country and the rights we have because of people like us.

Many civilians I talk with, a) do not fully understand the rights they have b) do not fully understand how those rights are maintained. With that basic lack of understanding it is difficult to respect others opinions when they only see half an equation.

I like the idea of mandatory service, so that everyone gains some perspective. I know this is not possible in this country, however, I do believe some European countries do this to some success.

I was having an interesting conversation recently with another veteran, which centered around the movie "Star Ship Troopers". Before you laugh, what we were discussing was the concept of a global government where in order to be a citizen you had to have been in the military. Only citizens had certain rights. granted allot of that show looked like Eastern Europe circa 1939, but interesting concepts utilized there.

Response by PO1 Javid Benson made Feb 20 at 2015 9:40 PM

PO1 Javid Benson — Fri, 20 Feb 2015 21:40:59 -0500

without service I would be lost, I love my service will not change it for anything, wish I spent more time seeing my daughter grow up and my family more but at that time I was enjoying the service