Do you still feel the obligation as a leader to accomplish the mission and assist our troops (veterans)?

SGT Craig Northacker — Tue, 27 May 2014 10:01:47 -0400

I have found as an old NCO that I feel that obligation more strongly. It drives me daily as we develop new programs for veterans and their families. We expect 2014 to be a blockbuster year in helping many people throughout the country. Our core has no ego - it is all our obligation, and it gives us a purpose like no other.

Response by CSM Michael Evans made May 27 at 2014 10:07 AM

CSM Michael Evans — Tue, 27 May 2014 10:07:20 -0400

Great topic! Im curious as to how much feedback this will develop. I have found over the years to constantly pass on information to former Soldiers of mine who have since retired due to 20 years or more of service, or medically retired. Id like to think someone will continue to look out for the rest of us when the time comes. I often asked on new policies, regulatory guidance and such by retirees. Its amazing how fast the dialogue stops once you hang up the uniform.

Response by SFC Rich Carey made May 27 at 2014 10:08 AM

SFC Rich Carey — Tue, 27 May 2014 10:08:19 -0400

I think that is why I am the Transition Coach for a University. I have developed several programs to help Veterans and their family. I thought it was because I was a Career Counselor

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made May 27 at 2014 10:18 AM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Tue, 27 May 2014 10:18:52 -0400

Even worse, Sgt, I often annoy myself because of my "Well, someone should do something.." view, and I end up doing it myself, (i.e buying food for the elderly veterans, paying for pet food, pet adoptions and pet vaccines for elderly veterans, and so on). Nothing major like you do, just small things that help our older brothers and sisters live a little easier, you know?
I've been out quite a while now, and I would like to say it was all that Leadership training, but quite frankly, I think its more the "Leave no one behind" view that was nudged, pushed and shoved into us all over the years.
I am not sure if it was our leadership training, or whether the military just attracts those who feel a need to step in, but I know that most everyone I volunteer with at the shelter and the food bank, have a tie to the military... and considering that we are 1% of the total, does make you wonder.

Response by SSG Robin Rushlo made May 27 at 2014 10:58 AM

SSG Robin Rushlo — Tue, 27 May 2014 10:58:57 -0400

I feel once a leader at any level in the military you are obligated from that point till you die. Toe tag is only excuse.

Response by SGT James Elphick made May 27 at 2014 11:13 AM

SGT James Elphick — Tue, 27 May 2014 11:13:28 -0400

That's why I am in the job that I am in and expanding it as much as possible to incorporate more Vets. I started a work-study program through the VA and I work with young Vets which allows me to help them not make the same mistakes I made after I transitioned.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 27 at 2014 11:43 AM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 27 May 2014 11:43:38 -0400

Craig,

Great to hear...read...but I think every year we strive for that to be the best year. I still strive to accomplish the mission, but what is the mission in the civilian World? Remember, while we served there were very few missions that we really were on?
I still try to take care of our brothers and sisters in uniform but I wish...prayed...I had a mission.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made May 27 at 2014 11:53 AM

MSG Wade Huffman — Tue, 27 May 2014 11:53:04 -0400

Absolutely I do, that's why I chose to become a County Veterans Service Officer once I retired. It's a frustrating job dealing with the VA as an advocate for our veterans, but it's very rewarding as well.

Response by SFC Matthew Parker made May 27 at 2014 12:53 PM

SFC Matthew Parker — Tue, 27 May 2014 12:53:51 -0400

Obligation to veterans, no. I will contribute money and time to support a veterans food or clothing drive and I donate suits for interviews but I expect and demand the VA and the government to live up to its promises and support the veterans.

But as a senior non-commissioned officer, a designation that doesn't go away with retirement I do offer all my skills, experience and training if ever needed to the active Army and reserves. I volunteer to work with young NCO's all the time but there is no system in place to harness the knowledge of NCOs so it can be passed on.

I see general officers paid good money to give a speech or conduct seminars and to work at the war college but where are the programs to bring experienced first sergeants, platoon sergeants back to work with the NCO corp.

I will support our young leaders and mission success as long as I can, just tell me where and when.

When we hear of a veteran in need you can bet there is another ten veterans we don't know of that need help also. So I don't feel an obligation to that one vet, I feel a obligation to hold the system accountable for all of them.

Response by SSG Selwyn Bodley made May 28 at 2014 1:17 PM

SSG Selwyn Bodley — Wed, 28 May 2014 13:17:02 -0400

I don't think the obligation for helping soldiers ended with my ETS. I especially feel the stronger need with veterans. I am a pastor now and its been awesome to have many vets in the church both young and older. I believe its been a good place for them. Not only for the strength that God gives them but also the camaraderie of each other. Especially since so many vets feel disconnected and alone.

Response by CPT Richard Riley made May 28 at 2014 4:35 PM

CPT Richard Riley — Wed, 28 May 2014 16:35:47 -0400

When you define assisting the veteran troops as an obligation, you've place a moral or duty imperative upon that assistance. There are numerous ways individuals go about 'taking care of one-another' and the best are those who give their time and effort freely without any obligation.
I think you find that the inter-service camaraderie is just one aspect of helping one another. The development of sites like RallyPoint drive home that philosophy by offering a one-stop-shop of mentoring, advice, opinions, and suggestions all geared towards improving each person to the best of their ability.
I'm happy to be in the group that offers what they are able freely and without expectations. Therefore, in answer to the question posed, Do I feel obligated - no, but that has nothing to do with will I help and assist where I can.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 25 at 2019 3:34 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 15:34:03 -0400

I have a soft spot and empathy for veterans with PTSD. In retrospect, when I went through the MEB I was in the dark about my mental constitution and the road ahead. Those who went through the process are gone and those new to the process are in the dark. I want to be the quartering party that can lead veterans on the right path and the right destination. I feel a sense of awe if I can help someone get their life back.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 25 at 2019 6:05 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 18:05:02 -0400

Yes as military leaders are to take care of troops.