Posted on Jun 30, 2017
It Isn’t For Recognition, It’s Just For Me
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Within our community, the community of service members and veterans, we often hear people complain or perhaps make fun of those who decide to wear their “- - - War Veteran” hats or some piece of flair from their old uniform. Many people attempt to call out that wearing these things is an attention-seeking tactic; a passive-aggressive way of poking each person that you encounter in public and whispering in their ears, “Hey, I’m a veteran. You’re supposed to thank me for my service now.” But I want to contest this opinion, and offer you a different theory.
If you have not already figured, I happen to be one of those veterans that often wears a pin, or badge, or hat that signifies that I am, in fact, a veteran. Many a time, you will be hard pressed to find me not wearing something that is easily recognizable as something attributed to the military. I have a dog tag that hangs from the short chain on a zipper that is on my leather jacket. On another one of my leather jackets, I often have a “combat cavalry badge” (which I know is not a real award) pinned just above the left breast pocket. I also have my good ol’ DV hat that is laden with little pins.
Yes, I like to have a little something on me, but it is definitely not to call attention to my prior service. Frankly, I could not care any less if I ever get thanked. In fact, I am, more often than not, very uncomfortable when someone walks up to me and says, “Thank you for your service.” Like most other vets, I really don’t know how to properly respond. So, why would I walk around rocking a dog tag or badge on my jacket, or a pin on my vet hat? Let me tell you why...
Many of us have a difficult time when we leave the military. It is a stressful time. The life that you have known for many years is over. If you are anything like me, someone who enlisted directly out of high school and spent my entire adult life in the military (at that time), it is a horrible shock to the system when you are thrown back out into the real world. For a while, like many, I dove into a bottle and swam around inside of it for quite some time. I eventually climbed out of that bottle and began working to get my life back on track, but it wasn’t easy. What made me want to get back up and try to succeed was the memory of what I once was.
You see, I believed when I left the military that I lost a part of myself; like my identity had been stripped from me, like I was a shell of my former self. I no longer wore my sergeant chevrons, or my beret, or any of the uniform for that matter, so obviously I was no longer a soldier. However, after months of self-reflection, I came to the realization that just because my time in the military was over didn’t mean that I was entirely stripped of the title I had earned. I was still a soldier, I had earned that title years ago when I stood up at my OSUT graduation at Fort Knox, Kentucky. That couldn’t be taken from me. It just took me a long time to see this fact.
Even though I had come to this realization that I could still hold onto my identity, time passed and I got further and further from the last time I polished my shoes and made sure that those ribbons were exactly 1/8 inch above the breast pocket. It became easy to slip back into forgetting who I was. That’s why I wear something, anything, always on my person. It isn’t for the looks, it isn’t to ensure that I get my 10% military discount at Applebee’s, and it certainly isn’t for strangers to come and thank me. It’s a reminder to myself of what I have done, where I have been, and who I am. It is a subtle reminder that I am no longer in uniform, but I am still strong, still intelligent, and still destined for greatness.
So perhaps the next time you see someone, man or woman, young or old, regardless of their branch of service or the conflict they served in, and they are wearing something that you recognize, don’t automatically think that they are looking for attention. Maybe approach them and talk to them. Ask them what they did, where they served, when they did it. Maybe that conversation will go a long way and help remind them of who they are. I guarantee that it will make their days just a little bit better, and you might benefit as well from the conversation.
Just remember that you don’t know what is going on in that other veteran’s head. Perhaps the last thing they need is a brother or sister in arms looking down on them for simply being proud of who they are. Sometimes, we all just need a little reminder of who we are, and who we used to be.
If you have not already figured, I happen to be one of those veterans that often wears a pin, or badge, or hat that signifies that I am, in fact, a veteran. Many a time, you will be hard pressed to find me not wearing something that is easily recognizable as something attributed to the military. I have a dog tag that hangs from the short chain on a zipper that is on my leather jacket. On another one of my leather jackets, I often have a “combat cavalry badge” (which I know is not a real award) pinned just above the left breast pocket. I also have my good ol’ DV hat that is laden with little pins.
Yes, I like to have a little something on me, but it is definitely not to call attention to my prior service. Frankly, I could not care any less if I ever get thanked. In fact, I am, more often than not, very uncomfortable when someone walks up to me and says, “Thank you for your service.” Like most other vets, I really don’t know how to properly respond. So, why would I walk around rocking a dog tag or badge on my jacket, or a pin on my vet hat? Let me tell you why...
Many of us have a difficult time when we leave the military. It is a stressful time. The life that you have known for many years is over. If you are anything like me, someone who enlisted directly out of high school and spent my entire adult life in the military (at that time), it is a horrible shock to the system when you are thrown back out into the real world. For a while, like many, I dove into a bottle and swam around inside of it for quite some time. I eventually climbed out of that bottle and began working to get my life back on track, but it wasn’t easy. What made me want to get back up and try to succeed was the memory of what I once was.
You see, I believed when I left the military that I lost a part of myself; like my identity had been stripped from me, like I was a shell of my former self. I no longer wore my sergeant chevrons, or my beret, or any of the uniform for that matter, so obviously I was no longer a soldier. However, after months of self-reflection, I came to the realization that just because my time in the military was over didn’t mean that I was entirely stripped of the title I had earned. I was still a soldier, I had earned that title years ago when I stood up at my OSUT graduation at Fort Knox, Kentucky. That couldn’t be taken from me. It just took me a long time to see this fact.
Even though I had come to this realization that I could still hold onto my identity, time passed and I got further and further from the last time I polished my shoes and made sure that those ribbons were exactly 1/8 inch above the breast pocket. It became easy to slip back into forgetting who I was. That’s why I wear something, anything, always on my person. It isn’t for the looks, it isn’t to ensure that I get my 10% military discount at Applebee’s, and it certainly isn’t for strangers to come and thank me. It’s a reminder to myself of what I have done, where I have been, and who I am. It is a subtle reminder that I am no longer in uniform, but I am still strong, still intelligent, and still destined for greatness.
So perhaps the next time you see someone, man or woman, young or old, regardless of their branch of service or the conflict they served in, and they are wearing something that you recognize, don’t automatically think that they are looking for attention. Maybe approach them and talk to them. Ask them what they did, where they served, when they did it. Maybe that conversation will go a long way and help remind them of who they are. I guarantee that it will make their days just a little bit better, and you might benefit as well from the conversation.
Just remember that you don’t know what is going on in that other veteran’s head. Perhaps the last thing they need is a brother or sister in arms looking down on them for simply being proud of who they are. Sometimes, we all just need a little reminder of who we are, and who we used to be.
Retirement
Recognition
Service
Badges
Command Post
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 104
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As for me, I wear these items from time-to-time because I have earned the right to do so. If you have served on any of the collective services and do so, please continue on doing so. It is pride in what you have accomplished in life by serving. If while doing so a person comes up to you and thanks you for your service, reply to the that you thank you for supporting those that do. Though most that do so probably do it because they miss that time in their life and do to connect with others in their same position. No better conversation starter than wearing your unit or service identifier and finding a brother that you would not have otherwise. I have been in places where my meal was bought for me and others because we were identifiable. To those that bought the meal, they did so out of honoring those that pay a price that those who haven't will never understand. Those are called, Proud Americans. I am very thankful that those who served in Vietnam wear some form of identifier. It is because they do that I am able to say to them words they did not here a lot. The words, Welcome Home and I thank you for your service. Without them carrying the torch of their era, we would not be able to serve this era and there would be nothing to carry on. I do so every time I see that Vietnam Veteran. I teach those around me to tell those veterans thank you and welcome home too. I was having dinner with my wife outside a military base and in uniform. I observed a Vietnam Veteran come in to have dinner with his family. My wife and I approached him and told him thanks, welcome home and that his meal with his family was on me. I did so quietly because sometimes it can be a pride thing for some. I left him with his family to enjoy their time. When I requested my check, I learned that my wife's and my meal had been paid for by an anonymous patron. That was pretty cool sign of paying it forward. Now for the few, I did not attempt to or care to verify the mans service. You see, I performed my act of kindness because I felt in my heart it was the thing to do. From time to time we have some imposters out there and posing. You all are aware of that. I say that to say this. People do these types of act because they truly feel that the US Veteran I special. If from time-to- time a poser is awarded a purchased meal and/or thanked. that poser will never know or have the since of pride of we veterans and military service members experience. It is a feeling that your sacrifices are known to many and because you and I have and continue to do so America is still a proud and grateful nation. Wear you service/unit identifier with pride and when doing so, let your actions show that you are an ambassador to the entire military population among us. BE, KNOW, and DO!
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If anyone makes fun of a veteran for wearing something indicative of their prior service such as a hat, a t-shirt, or a small pin or badge or whatever... I'd chalk that up to bad character on their part.
I joined the Army in May 2002 at the age of 17. Through a series of wild circumstances, here I am at the 15 year 4 month mark and facing down the next PCS being my last... I have to admit I'm a bit terrified of the thought of not being in the Army anymore. I'll probably have a pin or something on my bag, my jacket, a suit, etc.
Excellent article, though it's a bit pathetic that this had to be a topic because some people are jackasses.
I joined the Army in May 2002 at the age of 17. Through a series of wild circumstances, here I am at the 15 year 4 month mark and facing down the next PCS being my last... I have to admit I'm a bit terrified of the thought of not being in the Army anymore. I'll probably have a pin or something on my bag, my jacket, a suit, etc.
Excellent article, though it's a bit pathetic that this had to be a topic because some people are jackasses.
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A guy I worked with once made a snarky comment about a moto shirt I was wearing. Without a hint of irony I pointed out that he wore a Cal Berkeley T shirt often, had a UCB sticker on his computer, and a UCB license plate protector.
We advertise the accomplishments we are proud of.
We advertise the accomplishments we are proud of.
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90% of the time my husband usually has some type of Marine Corps shirt on. He also does not wear for the recognition but to remember that life he misses. I have also noticed that it helps him when we are out and another Marine says Semper Fi in passing. It's the Commeraderie like none other.
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Hello all!
Your post was a super read SGT Gunderson. I believe that everyone who served should be proud of their service, and they should never feel like a need to hide that fact from anyone. I retired from the US Army at Fort Bragg at the end of 1996. I felt lost at first and wasn't sure I should wear anything indicating my service as I moved into civilian sector employment. I even refused to consider any jobs with the government for many years.
It turned out to be the wrong train of thought, and after a few years, I felt the pull to find a way to serve our country again, so I went into contracting. I loved the interaction with the younger military members, and quickly learned they were desperately wanting to learn from my experiences in the military. I spent the last 11 years training soldiers at Fort Bragg on the use of computerized combat systems, but also took time to impart some old skills during the training that I feel they also need to learn, but are no longer being taught. I took a position working at a Marine Corps Air Station in Iwakuni, Japan earlier this year to stay working around the military, and for my wife and I to be closer to our youngest son who is stationed in Okinawa with US Army SATCOM.
All that being said, I wear some type of military clothing on a daily basis; most with a US Army theme. I'm not looking for recognition of my service either; just letting others know that I am proud to have devoted most of my life to helping in one way or another with keeping our country and its allies safe. Plus, wearing what I do seems to be a great conversation starter since I'm one of only five or so Army retirees working here. The young Marines and Sailors constantly ask about my Army days and why I am here working with them. The MPs on the gate seem to take extra pleasure in loudly addressing me by my full rank as I come on base each day, and also making sure any new Marines on the gate know to address me as such. I take great care to address them back by their proper rank also. A few of them even give me a "HOOAH!" every so often. And I acknowledge them back with "HOORAH!", and tell them to be proud of their service and sacrifice.
All of you reading this need to be proud also! Not everyone has felt the call of military service in their lives!
Your post was a super read SGT Gunderson. I believe that everyone who served should be proud of their service, and they should never feel like a need to hide that fact from anyone. I retired from the US Army at Fort Bragg at the end of 1996. I felt lost at first and wasn't sure I should wear anything indicating my service as I moved into civilian sector employment. I even refused to consider any jobs with the government for many years.
It turned out to be the wrong train of thought, and after a few years, I felt the pull to find a way to serve our country again, so I went into contracting. I loved the interaction with the younger military members, and quickly learned they were desperately wanting to learn from my experiences in the military. I spent the last 11 years training soldiers at Fort Bragg on the use of computerized combat systems, but also took time to impart some old skills during the training that I feel they also need to learn, but are no longer being taught. I took a position working at a Marine Corps Air Station in Iwakuni, Japan earlier this year to stay working around the military, and for my wife and I to be closer to our youngest son who is stationed in Okinawa with US Army SATCOM.
All that being said, I wear some type of military clothing on a daily basis; most with a US Army theme. I'm not looking for recognition of my service either; just letting others know that I am proud to have devoted most of my life to helping in one way or another with keeping our country and its allies safe. Plus, wearing what I do seems to be a great conversation starter since I'm one of only five or so Army retirees working here. The young Marines and Sailors constantly ask about my Army days and why I am here working with them. The MPs on the gate seem to take extra pleasure in loudly addressing me by my full rank as I come on base each day, and also making sure any new Marines on the gate know to address me as such. I take great care to address them back by their proper rank also. A few of them even give me a "HOOAH!" every so often. And I acknowledge them back with "HOORAH!", and tell them to be proud of their service and sacrifice.
All of you reading this need to be proud also! Not everyone has felt the call of military service in their lives!
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I don't wear any Army bling of any sort, and really can't see myself doing so in the future. The closest I come to ANY bling is race & BJJ t-shirts and a scuba-themed jacket, and a few similar bumper strikers - and those only in the last few years. That's really a feature of my personality. Not only do I not want to call attention to myself in public, I actively want to do the opposite. Therefore, I tend to minimize things - of any sort - that might make me stick out in a crowd.
That said, I generally assume that if someone wears bling of any sort, it is because it either has a personal meaning to them, or they are really proud of it. Both of which are great reasons to wear it. If that sparks conversations with others, well then that is probably great.
One thing I've noticed, as I have gotten in better shape over the last year, when I wear the BJJ shirts, I tend to get into a fair number of conversations about the sport with random people (same thing years ago, when I was in shape and doing striking arts). Which I would normally avoid (conversations with random people - I've already got a thing I'm doing, wherever I am!!), but it is on a topic I find interesting, helps me be more approachable, and I think makes me friendlier overall.
That said, I generally assume that if someone wears bling of any sort, it is because it either has a personal meaning to them, or they are really proud of it. Both of which are great reasons to wear it. If that sparks conversations with others, well then that is probably great.
One thing I've noticed, as I have gotten in better shape over the last year, when I wear the BJJ shirts, I tend to get into a fair number of conversations about the sport with random people (same thing years ago, when I was in shape and doing striking arts). Which I would normally avoid (conversations with random people - I've already got a thing I'm doing, wherever I am!!), but it is on a topic I find interesting, helps me be more approachable, and I think makes me friendlier overall.
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COL Vincent Stoneking
Heh. So I realized I fibbed a little. I do have multiple War College polos that I wear pretty regularly...
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I see old vets (I guess these days I should probably say older vets) that wear hats all the time with service information. I don't think they are attention seekers, I just figure they are proud of what they did.
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To me, its a matter of pride. I am proud that I have served (continue to serve) in the military. There is no reason to hide. I don't wear it everyday, but I have a few T-shirts and a couple of ball caps with military affiliation on them. I wear them proudly, 99% of the time no one seems to notice.
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It's a tough decision for me. I've never worn anything to signify my service in Vietnam but since my state (Colorado) gives me a free license and registration as a Purple Heart recipient, I have the plates on my truck. A few days ago someone sent me a Purple Heart / Vietnam Veteran baseball hat which is sitting in my office. I haven't decided whether to wear it or not. I do like talking to other Vets from any conflict and any branch. I was Army Airborne having served with both the 82nd and 101st (101st in Vietnam). There are so many people who really didn't serve in Vietnam wearing military gear - easy to tell after talking with them for a few minutes - that it makes me uneasy .... Such is life...
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Great post. I don't wear anything that ID's me as a vet, however, I don't harp on people who do. It's a personal decision that only the individual knows their own motivations for doing.
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