Why did you join the military?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:07:11 -0400

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2018 11:10 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:10:17 -0400

Hunt the good stuff, lets reword " I want to kill people, is this normal? "

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2018 11:20 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:20:56 -0400

Iran took hostages at our embassy. I joined DEP 1979.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2018 11:42 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:42:54 -0400

My father died serving our country. Like my father, I wanted to serve our country, and I also wanted to aid South Vietnam.

Response by SGT Matthew Sesar made Jul 3 at 2018 11:49 AM

SGT Matthew Sesar — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:49:55 -0400

Iraq war

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Jul 3 at 2018 12:06 PM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 12:06:11 -0400

to get away from my crazy family but boy was I wrong I walk into deployment after deployment.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jul 3 at 2018 12:49 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 12:49:34 -0400

Draft Number 2.

Response by SSgt Holden M. made Jul 3 at 2018 1:36 PM

SSgt Holden M. — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 13:36:21 -0400

I joined because I knew I wasn't mature enough for college after high school and didn't want to waste time and money. Plus there was a part of me that wanted to "do my time" so to speak. My dad did 4 years in the Navy, my grandfather was in the Army and my great grandfather was in the Marines, and my dad said don't join the Army or the Marines. If you join then join the Navy for the Air Force and since I'm not a big fan of swimming because I have to (learned that from boy scouts) then I picked the Air Force. Plus the Air Force only had a 6 week basic training at the time.

Response by SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez made Jul 3 at 2018 1:40 PM

SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 13:40:27 -0400

SPC Ayers,
I joined to get away from all the madness/drugs I was getting into back home in Puerto Rico. It got so bad that people were looking for me. I was still living with my mother and the rest of my brothers and sister. I didn't want to bring all that to my house so, I joined right before the Christmas holidays back in 1992. Now, 20 years in the service was not the plan, hahahaha. All I wanted to do was 4-5 years maybe. Didn't know I was going to like it, then life took certain turns, and ended up staying in.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2018 1:40 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 13:40:30 -0400

At first, I think it was about living up to my dad, uncle and grandfather (82nd NCO, Marine, AAF Pilot). Later on, I think it came down to proving a little guy with coke-bottle glasses from the hills could do it. If I had it to do all over again, it would be for more pragmatic reasons, but frankly...I'm glad I don't have that choice.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jul 3 at 2018 2:54 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 14:54:41 -0400

I joined to "stack bodies", wear little shorts and yell, "rah" but I joined the wrong branch apparently.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2018 3:44 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 15:44:42 -0400

I wanted to not be a burden on my parents. At age 17 I could not work in the mines nor the mills and that was all the good jobs there were. So - the military.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Jul 3 at 2018 10:27 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 22:27:13 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member "You Go to College, Make As and Bs and I'll Pay for It, Make C's and D's and You'll Pay for it or Join the Military" My Father. "I'll Join the Military" "I was Kidding" Dad. "I'm Not" Me. I was Tired of School I wanted to do something and I sucked at School. I was good with Electronics and I knew the Military would let me work on Electronics. Fortunately/Unfortunately I hadn't counted on the Amount of Schooling the Navy Would Put Me Through but I wasn't Disappointed. I got to Play with the Biggest, Most Expensive Tools Ever. From a PDP-11/70 to a 150ft Parabolic Dish Antenna. Sky was the Limit and being a Spook with a "Black Budget" nothing was Too Expensive for Us to Buy.

Response by PO1 Brian Austin made Jul 4 at 2018 1:41 AM

PO1 Brian Austin — Wed, 04 Jul 2018 01:41:17 -0400

Lousy grades, no money, dead end crappy job. Navy recruiter called me, i got the job i wanted, guaranteed paycheck 1st and 15th...no brainer. Visited exotic places, played with exotic toys, had a blast for 22 yrs.

Response by MSgt Dale Johnson made Jul 4 at 2018 9:59 AM

MSgt Dale Johnson — Wed, 04 Jul 2018 09:59:08 -0400

Basically I won the lottery of 1971. I had two options, join and try to get a job doing something I wanted to do or be drafted and get a job someone else wanted me to do. I chose the first option, little did I know I would not like that job even though it sounded like a path to a good job after the service. Then after retraining fell in love with the job I had and decided to apply myself and see how far I could go.

Response by SGM (R) Antonio Brown made Jul 4 at 2018 10:55 AM

SGM (R) Antonio Brown — Wed, 04 Jul 2018 10:55:45 -0400

I joined the Army Reserve to help me focus during the time I was in college. When that did not work I switched to the Active side after a year. It was a way for me to pay off my school debt and acquire money for school. It would only be four years and I would be back in school. 30 years later I have completed my college education and had fun while serving.

Response by SSG Russell Busicchia made Jul 6 at 2018 11:30 AM

SSG Russell Busicchia — Fri, 06 Jul 2018 11:30:02 -0400

At 19 I didn't know what I wanted to do. My father was always complaining that he did not go Regular Army, he was Army National Guard. So I thought I'd try it. Liked being a soldier I served 20 years.

Response by MSG David King made Jul 11 at 2018 8:39 AM

MSG David King — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 08:39:07 -0400

I needed training in a new vocation. I joined the Army in 1983 when I turned 21 as a Combat Medic in a reserve unit. It was a great opportunity that became my career after I went to active duty service 18 months after basic and AIT. After 5 years on active duty I returned to the reserves and found the best kept secret, the AGR program. I served 24 years as a full time Medic and retired an E8 at 29 years of active federal service through retention control. I have great respect for those that I served with and for those that continue to serve. God bless America and all those who serve in Uniform.

Response by SGT Chas Brothers made Jul 11 at 2018 9:24 PM

SGT Chas Brothers — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 21:24:09 -0400

I came from that era where I didn't have a choice. My parents turned me over to the military and basically signed their rights to me over to Uncle Sam. Beginning of story....

Response by SSG Ricky Johnson made Jul 12 at 2018 8:08 AM

SSG Ricky Johnson — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 08:08:45 -0400

Originally I didn’t want to be drafted. My dad was drafted in wwii and my brother for Viet Nam. So I enlisted. Rather than getting out after 3, I ended up staying 11 yrs 3 mo 17 days, but who counts.

Response by SSgt David Tanner made Jul 15 at 2018 1:38 AM

SSgt David Tanner — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 01:38:56 -0400

First I wanted to serve my country. Second my Great Grandfather and Grandfather served in WWII my father served in Libya, Vietnam and Laos. As you can see my family has a tradition of serving our great country. I've lived in Germany as a teen and saw firsthand the negative affect of communism and socialism and wanted to ensure my children would be able to live in a democracy. Finally, education when active duty I obtained my Masters degree, as a DoD civilian I have almost completed my Doctorate.

Response by SPC Russ Bolton made Jul 15 at 2018 5:06 AM

SPC Russ Bolton — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 05:06:16 -0400

I am a patriot. I joined the army in 1985 because like many fine soldiers before me made the same choice. It is still my oath, It is a very large family that some how it seams like I kind of fit.l know that it is the same story as most everyone. Many blessings to all of my brothers and sisters in arms.

Response by SPC Russ Bolton made Jul 15 at 2018 5:19 AM

SPC Russ Bolton — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 05:19:35 -0400

Just a fine howdy do to all of my brothers and sisters.have a wonderful day.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Jul 15 at 2018 9:43 AM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 09:43:34 -0400

That's a real complex question, in general...I've related on Jere in the past our Dad conditioned my next younger brother and myself to both go in, I was Army ROTC 3 yes, on scholarship for the latter 2 yes, though I didn't finish the program, I went USAF OTS afterward instead, my brother went USMMA Kings Point, I commissioned him when he finished...the whys were really complex, our Dad had been a Nay aircraft mechanic on Grumman TBM Avengers, the carrier based turboprop planes with folding wings, he'd gotten out when his family lost his Mom, he had to take care of my uncle, his younger brother, he passed as a result on Navy observer training, which always nagged at him, he'd also taken the NROTC exam, of read in his records later when I'd sent for them...also, my uncle, his sister's husband, as I've related, was a SSgt in the 3118th Signal Svc Battalion/Group, one of Eisenhower's radio operators, his unit got a Presidential Unit Citation endorsed by Gen Eisenhower, I did read that, he'd relate having met Eisenhower, and having seen the Germans surrender at Reims Germany in the little red schoolhouse, he swiped a copy of German surrender Telex to Gen Marshall, he helped send it, my cousins still have it, also, Gen Eisenhower gave him his diploma at Columbia Univ on the GI bill while Gen Eisenhower was president there before getting elected, the Gen actually recalled him briefly, though the aide with the diplomas looked positively aghast....

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Jul 15 at 2018 9:45 AM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 09:45:25 -0400

Sometimes, though, quite honestly, I often wonder, in retrospect, of our Dad knew what he was actually getting my brother and myself involved with...honestly, I think, quite frequently, that may well have been why he didn't similarly indoctrinate and condition our younger fraternal twin brothers...as I may have already said, the whole thing was really, really complex, honest....

Response by MAJ Seth Goldstein made Jul 16 at 2018 9:53 AM

MAJ Seth Goldstein — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 09:53:22 -0400

It was not because my family has a history, I love the military or that I'm super patriotic. I needed money for college, not to mention all the organization and leadership skills the Army had to offer. I would not trade the 20+ years for anything but I'm also happy I spent my entire career in the AR/NG other than deployments because how anal most soldiers can be.

Response by SSG Larry Batten made Jul 19 at 2018 6:10 PM

SSG Larry Batten — Thu, 19 Jul 2018 18:10:39 -0400

To get the heck away from my parents!

Response by SPC Katherine Adams (Clayburn) made Jul 20 at 2018 1:42 PM

SPC Katherine Adams (Clayburn) — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 13:42:32 -0400

I joined to keep the legacy going in my family. It skipped a generation with my parents, aunts and uncles. My grandpa served in WWII as an MP.
With that and I had no other options in front of me at the time. Needing something career wise, stable work, after high school. So I joined in the summer as soon as I turned 18 before my senior year, then shipped out to Basic after graduating.

Response by COL Ed Gibson made Jul 20 at 2018 7:18 PM

COL Ed Gibson — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 19:18:17 -0400

I joined the Navy in 1943 to serve our country.

Response by PO1 William Price made Jul 25 at 2018 1:21 AM

PO1 William Price — Wed, 25 Jul 2018 01:21:54 -0400

Back in '74 the judge offered me door #1 or door #2, best thing that ever happened to me.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2018 7:13 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 19:13:20 -0400

To ensure my friends and family keep their freedom and a chance to make a better life for myself.

Response by Maj John Bell made Aug 2 at 2018 8:25 AM

Maj John Bell — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 08:25:01 -0400

I wish I could tell you it was for noble reasons. It was not.

As a kid I was reckless, not in criminal trouble with the law, just reckless in trouble with the law. For my Dad the final straw was during my sophomore year in high school. I was brought home by National Park Service Rangers, after I was banned from Sabino Canyon National Park for rappelling. My expertise consisted of seeing rappelling on a National Geographic special. I bought my gear at the local hardware store and used that brown manila hemp line. (Yes the kid that frays when you look at it real hard.) I had no idea how to tie rappelling knots so my rig mostly consisted of granny knots and half hitches. The park rangers were waiting for me at the bottom. It was one of a series of about nine incidents in three years where law enforcement stopped me from doing perfectly legal, but really stupid stuff. Plus the time when my uncle brought me home from his ranch for trying out my matador cape skills with an extremely unfriendly Angus Bull. Yes, I know what it is like to have a mud hole stomped in my ass.

My Dad sat me down and told me that he had no expectation that I would live to be 25. Based on that assumption, he saw no reason to pay for me to go to college, and would not do so until I had proven that I had developed better judgment. But he gave me no idea of how to prove myself. So I talked to a Navy recruiter at the beginning of my junior year. The next thing I knew, a Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officer was knocking on my door. Despite being a dumbass convinced of my own immortality, I was an excellent student, class valedictorian, student body vice-president, three sport varsity letter man, and a National Merit Scholar. To everyone's astonishment, especially Dad's, I was nominated and accepted.

So I ended up in the military as kind of a "screw you, I can do it myself" to my Dad. He never did pay for my college, but he did transfer the college fund to my daughter.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2018 3:38 PM

CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 15:38:36 -0400

I didn't make many mature decisions as an 18 year old in 1979. My Dad and Mom busted their butts for 5 kids and if I went to college, I would have been chasing skirts and not focused on studies so I enlisted. Didn't know whether I would last 35 days, months or years, turned out the latter. E-4, back to E-2 to E-7 (Chief Petty Officer), got my commission and retired as a Commander (O-5).

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Aug 5 at 2018 3:22 PM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 15:22:51 -0400

Growing up i had heard all the stories that all my uncles would tell from WWII thru Vietnam. I also had some older cousins who also served in the US Military. I guess you can say that it has been a family tradition to serve in our great countries military. I am very proud of my 26 years of service.

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Aug 5 at 2018 5:22 PM

LCpl Cody Collins — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 17:22:40 -0400

My dad said I needed to learn discipline. And would only let me sign up in the Marine Corps! Well it worked, no hands in pockets in this house !!!

Response by PO3 Eddie Crawford made Aug 5 at 2018 9:45 PM

PO3 Eddie Crawford — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 21:45:28 -0400

My dad was a Combat Infantryman in the Battle of the Bulge. In 1968, out of high school, I went to see a Army Recruiter about joining up. I asked him what jobs I could qualify for? I was wanting Armour cause my Dad was in a Armoured Division during WWII.
Here's what he said, "You're 18, out of high school, not married, we'll get you anyway. Why would I want to waste my time testing you for what you want"
So, I went right across the haul to the Navy Recruiter. He said that the Navy was pretty full up and asked what the Army Recruiter said to me. When I relayed the conversation to the Navy Recruiter he said called the Army Recruiter every name in the book.
So, I took the ASVAB, scored very high and chose Engineering for my rate.

Response by SPC Russ Bolton made Aug 6 at 2018 10:34 AM

SPC Russ Bolton — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 10:34:44 -0400

I joined the army to prove to myself and everyone else that I can do any that I put my mind to

Response by SFC Jim Dorsey made Aug 6 at 2018 3:01 PM

SFC Jim Dorsey — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 15:01:33 -0400

Early 70s, President Carter’s economy sucked. Needed a job. Then at some point love of country and being part of something bigger than me kicked in. As well as my love for military history and being able to see places I had only read about.... Normandy, Pointe du Hoc, Bastogne, Berlin etc

Response by PO2 Brian McCown made Aug 7 at 2018 8:46 PM

PO2 Brian McCown — Tue, 07 Aug 2018 20:46:29 -0400

I joined the Navy because I did not want the draft to take me into the Army at some later date.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2018 9:31 AM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 09:31:56 -0400

I tell myself and other people that I joined because I was third generation military and as the eldest son, it was my destiny. I never really wanted anything else either. But it's also true that my parents were getting a divorce and I was pissed at them and didn't want to be with either of them so, on Friday the 13, June the 13 1980, my 17th birthday I joined up to get away from them! Take your pick.

Response by CSM Michael Chavaree made Aug 9 at 2018 3:56 PM

CSM Michael Chavaree — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 15:56:10 -0400

To get a T-shirt

Response by PV2 Luther Haynes made Aug 10 at 2018 9:39 AM

PV2 Luther Haynes — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 09:39:38 -0400

I enlisted because I wanted to enjoy the experience. In a small town just like everywhere else, occupations are very scarce. Good thing I did, we also talked about why we joined when we had campfire in the barracks. Met a lot of good friends and still have them today.

Not to mention that all of my uncles joined and served in almost every branch expect Coast Guard, following the family legacy

Response by LCDR Mike Walker made Aug 10 at 2018 9:44 PM

LCDR Mike Walker — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 21:44:00 -0400

My reason was fairly simple. The draft was sure to get me since I didn't have a single deferment to stand on. I also wanted to go to college. My father, being a career enlisted man, couldn't afford to send me.

Response by SGT Eric Bachrodt made Aug 11 at 2018 8:34 AM

SGT Eric Bachrodt — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 08:34:53 -0400

I needed direction in my life. I was a very active spirited youth.

Response by SSgt Gerald Davis Jr made Aug 12 at 2018 3:23 PM

SSgt Gerald Davis Jr — Sun, 12 Aug 2018 15:23:07 -0400

1965 Go to college (I graduated 215/217). Get married (I went to my Sr. Prom stag. That left me with 4 choices. Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines. I had pretty much made up my mind at 6 when my grandmother took me to Eisenhower's 2nd inauguration. The Marines lining the parade route were the coolest I had ever seen. I can't say that my recruiters lied to me. Sitting in the living room with my Mom, I ask what boot camp would be like. The recruiter didn't hesitate. He said "You'll get your ass beat every day. My only regret is getting out after 9 years.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2018 6:11 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 06:11:59 -0400

I'm one of those odd balls who always wanted to join the military since I was a little kid. When we had career day in elementary school, I always signed up for all the military ones. I woke up an hour early on school days so I could watch G.I. Joe & Transformers before I had to get ready for school. I've always been drawn to the discipline (SecDef just put out a great memo on it too). Now that I'm in, I also appreciate the accountability. I tried to go the Academy route. I earned a nomination but not an appointment to USAFA. Then I tried the AFROTC thing for a year in college. Found out I'm much more of the doing type & enlisted life would probably suit me better. I still stayed in school & finished my B.S. but called up the AF Recruiter about a week after I graduated to enlist. 5 months later I was in San Antonio, TX. Never looked back. If anything, wonder if I should have done it sooner.

Response by PO2 Robert Cuminale made Aug 19 at 2018 12:42 AM

PO2 Robert Cuminale — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 00:42:22 -0400

The Draft.

Response by PO1 Milton Conkle made Aug 19 at 2018 11:14 PM

PO1 Milton Conkle — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 23:14:37 -0400

Vietnam was still going on in March of 1970 -when I turned 18. The same day I signed up for the draft I signed up for the Navy. I wanted a choice in my future. One week after graduation I was heading to boot camp in Great Lakes,Ill.

Response by SFC M Baum made Aug 21 at 2018 2:44 PM

SFC M Baum — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 14:44:31 -0400

First, it was a family tradition. I later realized it was about the people around me. No politics, no agenda, just the most professional people in the world protecting each other.

Response by SP5 Richard J Jones made Aug 24 at 2018 5:07 AM

SP5 Richard J Jones — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 05:07:09 -0400

My father served in the CBI theater in WWII as an ammunition truck driver in Burma under the command of "Vinegar Joe" General Joseph Stillwell. When Vietnam came around, my lottery number on my 19th birthday was 362. That meant I'd never go, so I enlisted instead. I was always a patriot, and believed in serving my country like my father did. Any kids I have will be informed about my military experience.

Response by CW3 Kim B. made Aug 26 at 2018 5:38 PM

CW3 Kim B. — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 17:38:53 -0400

Career change!

Response by Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. made Aug 27 at 2018 12:12 AM

Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 00:12:48 -0400

In 1966 at age 19 & newly married, I received my draft notice. I decided that I should enlist. Joined the Air Force. Severed 22 yrs. & am still married to the same lovely woman for over 52 yrs!

Response by CMSgt Robert (Bob) Kelchner made Aug 27 at 2018 11:14 AM

CMSgt Robert (Bob) Kelchner — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 11:14:25 -0400

I had graduated High School and wanted technical training and a military experience. I joined the Air Force a short time before my 18th birthday. I went to aircraft Radar school and served 25 years. Retired as E-09 Chief Master Sergeant. Probably the best decision of my life.

Response by SSG John Eroh made Aug 27 at 2018 1:36 PM

SSG John Eroh — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 13:36:57 -0400

I went in right out of high school in '66 because I already had taken my tests & physical so I enlisted so that I got what I wanted rather than where they wanted to put me. The Coast Guard had a long waiting list (found out later they were in Nam too) and the Army was the only service to guarantee me a particular school. Enjoyed my MOS enough to stay till retirement. I was fixed station communications (InterBase) with 2 years at Site R/Ft. Ritchie, MD, the post commander's head Gardner for a year at another post and as Chief Engineer at the post radio station among my assignments.

Response by CPT Kevin Juul made Aug 27 at 2018 3:32 PM

CPT Kevin Juul — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 15:32:10 -0400

The first time I enlisted in the Air Force for 6 years because I had a low draft # and I wanted to pick my branch. The second time I received a Commission through ROTC and a BS in GeoChemistry through SUNY Fredonia. As an Air Force Airman I was an Aircraft Electrician (maintenance) as an Army Officer I was Commissioned as an Ordnance Officer (maintenance). Retired as an Ordnance Officer. Loved both branches.

Response by SGM Bill Johnson made Aug 27 at 2018 4:05 PM

SGM Bill Johnson — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 16:05:04 -0400

I was broke. I had $37 and a used car. 36 years later I retired.

Response by Sgt John Mizell made Aug 31 at 2018 12:00 AM

Sgt John Mizell — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 00:00:02 -0400

To do my duty, to my Country

Response by SSG Stephen Arnold made Sep 3 at 2018 11:57 AM

SSG Stephen Arnold — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 11:57:38 -0400

Army college fund.

Response by Sgt Clyde Sinclair made Sep 3 at 2018 6:53 PM

Sgt Clyde Sinclair — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 18:53:57 -0400

I can remember the day my father, a WWII veteran, told my brothers and I that we had an obligation to serve in our countries military. But to answer your question: 1) Out of respect for my father and the love he taught us to have for the nation. 2) My country was at war in Vietnam. 3) Hippies were whining and dodging the draft. 4) There was no way in hell I was going to set at home and watch TV while guys were dying in rice paddies. There are a lot of things I regret, but I don't regret serving along some of this nations's finest in a time of need. I'd hate to have to have that on my heart every night.

Response by COL Larry Sage made Sep 4 at 2018 1:56 AM

COL Larry Sage — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 01:56:55 -0400

Involuntarily inducted (drafted) during 1st year of law school. Father was retired Chief Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force and disappointed when I was drafted and failed to attend Air Force Academy. I reminded him that it was the Army Air Corps he originally volunteered for and served in! He said "....damn, you're gona be a great lawyer"!!! Larry Sage, COL (ret), Infantry

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Sep 4 at 2018 8:45 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 08:45:13 -0400

Because I wanted to.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2018 2:53 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 14:53:20 -0400

Self-discipline, structure, purpose, change. USMC choice was a challenge piece. I expected the worst and they did their best to provide it. Overcoming adversity is essential in life. Leaders need to learn how to follow first. Good training. Any branch.

Response by TSgt Tommy Amparano made Sep 4 at 2018 3:41 PM

TSgt Tommy Amparano — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 15:41:21 -0400

For the high pay and short hours.

Response by PO3 Matt Strunk made Sep 4 at 2018 4:53 PM

PO3 Matt Strunk — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 16:53:15 -0400

To see if I could. Part of me didn’t think I could do it.

Response by SFC Dennis A. made Sep 4 at 2018 5:11 PM

SFC Dennis A. — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 17:11:13 -0400

I knew I had to do something after high school and didn't want to go on to another school or could I afford it. The Army seem like the way to go as it would teach me a skill and give me both a pay check and time to decide what to do with the rest of my life. (and it got me away for home)

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Sep 4 at 2018 9:55 PM

SSG Harry Herres — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 21:55:23 -0400

I was born in the military, my whole life was Army. The day I enlisted I was 6months short of 20 years. It is what I wanted, it's what I did and glad I did.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2018 11:01 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Sep 2018 23:01:33 -0400

I got into a heated discussion with a soldier I arrested. He asked a question that changed my life. Asked if I felt so strongly about it, what was I doing?
I found a recruiter and backed up my opinions.

Response by CWO4 William Johnson made Sep 7 at 2018 8:55 PM

CWO4 William Johnson — Fri, 07 Sep 2018 20:55:38 -0400

Hated school, problems at home. Needed guidance. Thought the service was the answer. Joined in March 1961, retired as a CWO4 in June 1991. With the exception of my family, the Navy was the best thing that ever happened to me.

Response by SMSgt Tom Burns made Sep 9 at 2018 9:33 PM

SMSgt Tom Burns — Sun, 09 Sep 2018 21:33:43 -0400

Was subject to draft in 1969, but decided to do it my way, went US Air Force and served our country for 26 years. Followed father , retired US Army and bother US Navy.

Response by SFC Robert Green made Sep 13 at 2018 11:16 AM

SFC Robert Green — Thu, 13 Sep 2018 11:16:23 -0400

To Travel and defend my country.

Response by SGT Ken Nash made Sep 17 at 2018 7:18 PM

SGT Ken Nash — Mon, 17 Sep 2018 19:18:26 -0400

Impress my future ex wife, but family is high veteran status

Response by PO1 Darrell Sanders made Sep 23 at 2018 2:53 PM

PO1 Darrell Sanders — Sun, 23 Sep 2018 14:53:00 -0400

I was wandering through lie aimlessly for about a month after High School. I couldn't afford college and tried working at a Campbell Soup company factory in Ohio. My Dad had been a Marine during Korea, my older brother was in Vietnam as a Wing Wiper at DaNang Marine air base. So I went and joined the Marines. spent 3 years active and 9 months reserve as an 0331 (light machine gun M-60) I was only qualified as a proof director at a fire arms factory. I was going to college on the GI bill, gotten married, worked on lift trucks with my dad, and played music in bars whenever I could get a gig for 40 bucks a night. Wife got pregnant then complications with the baby and I couldn't afford the medical bills. I was not going to be a grunt in the Corps the rest of my life so I tried the Navy, Took the test and became a Computer tech. No Macs no PC's ,they weren't invented yet, 10 years before I was medically discharged. No regrets on either experience, although I found later the Marine recruiter in 73 lied when he said all I could re-enlist for was an 0331, again.

Response by 1stSgt James Raymond made Sep 25 at 2018 1:45 PM

1stSgt James Raymond — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 13:45:41 -0400

Beginning at 4 years old I felt a call and obligation to serve my Country and to protect and defend the Constitution.

Response by SSG Steven Borders made Sep 25 at 2018 1:55 PM

SSG Steven Borders — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 13:55:32 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member Having worked the same type of jobs since I was 16, I wanted a change. I originally started looking at the Air National Guard in 2010. I thought I could better my life with the help of the Military, my father did it MSgt Private RallyPoint Member, and grandfathers, plus uncles. So it was a family thing. After being laid off in 2010, I decided to got Active Duty at the age of 31. And well I have been serving this country for almost 9 years now. Doing what I can to inspire and motivate my soldiers.

Response by LCDR William Breyfogle made Sep 28 at 2018 8:07 PM

LCDR William Breyfogle — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 20:07:12 -0400

I grew up in a military family. I liked the determination and drive I saw in military people ... as though they had a REAL reason to get up and get dressed in the morning. I wanted that for myself.

Response by LCDR William Breyfogle made Sep 28 at 2018 8:08 PM

LCDR William Breyfogle — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 20:08:44 -0400

I grew up in a military family. While it was never demanded that I eniist, I wanted the same drive and determination that I saw in military people. My father was career Army, so I though I'd try the Navy for a few years ... and ended up staying in for 37.5

Response by LTC Robin Gronovius made Sep 29 at 2018 10:02 AM

LTC Robin Gronovius — Sat, 29 Sep 2018 10:02:44 -0400

I was a freshman in college and an ROTC cadet living in the dorm room next to me convinced me to try ROTC. I liked it and joined the Army National Guard the next summer. My plan was to stay in the Guard after graduation, but I was selected for active duty upon commissioning. I spent the next 24 years on active duty.

Response by SPC Geana Schnepp made Oct 5 at 2018 10:58 AM

SPC Geana Schnepp — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 10:58:48 -0400

After high school I knew I wasn't ready for college and I wasn't sure what I really wanted to do with my life. A friend joined the Army and if I joined she would get a bump in rank. So I thought why not. I left for Basic between Christmas and New Years 1986. She left just after New Years 1987. I really enjoyed my time in the Army.

Response by MSgt David Haupt made Oct 9 at 2018 6:38 PM

MSgt David Haupt — Tue, 09 Oct 2018 18:38:21 -0400

Can trace the family roots in the military to 1755. Most famous is Brig Gen Herman A Haupt, Union Army, Engineer, Railroads.

Response by SPC James Jackson made Oct 17 at 2018 2:48 PM

SPC James Jackson — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 14:48:59 -0400

I always knew I would be a soldier. I grew up in a household of mental and physical abuse. I did something wrong, I got beaten and not your average dad pulls off his belt but with whatever was close at hand. I did something my dad thought was wrong, beaten. He was having a bad day, beaten. Got in trouble in school, didnt matter if it was my fault or not, beaten. And remember all this time I was told I was scum up to the level that Al Capone was a better person than I was and that I would always fail. I went to school in the 1st grade with 2 black eyes because I got into a fight and didnt give my dad the note out of fear so he beat me like a man, closed fist. I have a sister 2 years older than me and I would take the blame for her when I could because I was already used to the beatings. 1and1/2" wrench..beat with it. Ive been beaten unconscious as a kid but I refused to stay down which probably made it worse. I've had beatings go on for a week.. wake up to it, go to sleep to it, get one during the day just because he was still thinking about it. When I was 15 I decided enough was enough and fought back, he called the cops said I turned on the family. I was arrested, got sent to W.W. Moore in Danville then Beaumont in Richmond before I was sent to Job Corp. I swore then that I would stand up for those who didnt have a voice in the world and fight for them. When I joined the Army it was the first place I ever called home...

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2018 8:14 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 20 Oct 2018 20:14:01 -0400

Wanted the option of choice over draft. Stayed in the AF for 34 years.

Response by CPL Peter King made Oct 20 at 2018 11:30 PM

CPL Peter King — Sat, 20 Oct 2018 23:30:23 -0400

At school i got the chance to spend a couple of weeks with the British Army in Berlin. I flew in to RAF Germany, taking the military train to Berlin.

My room overlooked Rudolf Hess’s room in Spandau.

I traveled in to East Berlin (like a scene from the Man from UNCLE).

During that trip I became convinced that the proper direction for me was to protect my country and our people. Within a year I had taken my country’s shilling.

Never looked back.

Response by SMSgt Mike Wood made Oct 23 at 2018 12:53 PM

SMSgt Mike Wood — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 12:53:14 -0400

Wanted to do something that would make a difference. Also, wasn't very mature and the discipline and focus took care of that. Chose to be medic. Felt that this was the best course for my beliefs.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2018 7:10 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Oct 2018 19:10:57 -0400

I am proud to be an American and serve to my country.

Response by PO1 Dori Lowham made Oct 27 at 2018 10:45 PM

PO1 Dori Lowham — Sat, 27 Oct 2018 22:45:25 -0400

I joined the Navy because it was an avenue for me to take that would make me grow as a person and gave me a chance to give back to my country - I joined in 1983.

Response by CPT Jim Kotva made Oct 28 at 2018 7:48 AM

CPT Jim Kotva — Sun, 28 Oct 2018 07:48:43 -0400

I was 18 had really no direction my dad was in the Army I joined my 1st job was a crew chief on hueys.

Response by PO3 J.W. Nelson made Oct 29 at 2018 8:19 PM

PO3 J.W. Nelson — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 20:19:25 -0400

I joined the Navy because my college deferment was revoked and I was 1A !!! And I wanted a choice of what I was going to do !!

Response by PVT Kelly Karshner made Nov 5 at 2018 9:43 PM

PVT Kelly Karshner — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 21:43:19 -0500

My grandfather served in WWII and my Father served in Vietnam, my stepfather also served in Vietnam and I wanted to do my duty to my country also.

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made Nov 11 at 2018 10:42 PM

Cpl Bernard Bates — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 22:42:19 -0500

I was a farm boy, never been anywhere and I wanted to see the world. At 17 Dad signed for me and I went to Parris Island. I was scared but I was going to do my best. I went in the marines in 59 it was a slow time it took a week to get enough recruits to for a Plt. I turned 18 in boot camp. I have been to Camp lejune, Puerto Rico, Quantico, camp Pendleton, Okinawa and San Diego. after 4 yrs. I got discharged and joined the Army. I have been to Ft. Ord., Ft Knox, Ft. Gordon, Vietnam and Ft. Dix. where I got discharged after 7yrs in the Military. I got my wish. Semper fi.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Nov 18 at 2018 7:36 AM

1SG Ernest Stull — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 07:36:15 -0500

I joined b/c ever since I was a kid growing up I read, watched every war moving that was made. I was destined to be a soldier and I was for 23.5 years. If their was away I got the mission accomplished and had a great time.

Response by SSG Keith Jahnke made Nov 19 at 2018 10:59 AM

SSG Keith Jahnke — Mon, 19 Nov 2018 10:59:00 -0500

One day in March of '69 I received a letter in the mail stating that my friends and neighbors had selected me to serve. The next day I was in the recruiting office and signed up for 3 years. At the AFEES station I got a pitch for the Army Security Agency and wound signed up for 4 years. After serving for 2 1/2 years, signed up again for 4 years in order to switch MOS from 05H to 98B. Total service was 6 years, 6 months & 1 day.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Nov 24 at 2018 3:48 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Sat, 24 Nov 2018 03:48:13 -0500

I didn't want to go to college after I graduated High School in 1987, but I knew I had to do something positive with my life. So I joined the Army.

Response by SPC Marguerite Wright made Nov 26 at 2018 12:36 AM

SPC Marguerite Wright — Mon, 26 Nov 2018 00:36:22 -0500

We were a dysfunctional family. Everything I ever had was because I was born an American. I survived because I was born an American. Had I been born in another country, in a Third World Country, I may not have been where I am today. Things may not be ideal. We may not be perfect. But we are not the monster some people would like to make us out to be. Even as a kid I knew how lucky I was to be born an American and I knew I wanted to pay it forward one day by joining the Army. So I did. I have never regretted it. I would do it all over again.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 26 at 2018 3:50 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 26 Nov 2018 15:50:29 -0500

It gave me an opportunity to wear different hats.

Response by PO2 Louis Fattrusso made Nov 30 at 2018 6:13 PM

PO2 Louis Fattrusso — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 18:13:39 -0500

Interestingly, I was drafted in our country’s last draft. Since serving in the Navy was a family tradition, I enlisted in the Navy after passing my draft medical and swearing in to the Army. I am proud to have served.

Response by PFC Anthony Bruce made Apr 21 at 2020 2:12 AM

PFC Anthony Bruce — Tue, 21 Apr 2020 02:12:29 -0400

To serve my country and go to war hoping I could save someone with a family from having to go.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Sep 21 at 2020 1:08 PM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 13:08:25 -0400

I wanted to serve my country, proud of it.

Response by Sgt Michael Hoffman made Sep 22 at 2020 12:29 PM

Sgt Michael Hoffman — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 12:29:59 -0400

I joined because I'd been too young for WW 2 and Korea was on and I wanted to serve.

Response by Cpl Robert Russell Payne made Jan 14 at 2021 10:45 AM

Cpl Robert Russell Payne — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 10:45:09 -0500

Because I wanted to be a Marine! My first dream was to play football at Auburn like my Dad did but a 5 flat 40 won't cut it at Auburn so the Marine Corps it was. I think it's cool that if you look at the Dress Blues blouse and the Auburn home jersey you will see that the colors are very similar. War Eagle!