What was your proudest "military moment?"

2013-11-23T01:27:55-05:00

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! 

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 1:40 AM

2013-11-23T01:40:58-05:00

My proudest military moment was the day I pinned SGT. I set a goal when I came in as a PFC to make SGT in 3 years. Although I fell short of my goal, it taught me that nobody was giving me anything in this ARMY. I had to work very hard. I was wearing CPL stripes for a year after that chasing points. When I finally saw my name on the by name list it was an unbelievable feeling. I could not wait to create the Daffin legacy and be one of the best NCO's this ARMY has ever seen. That is my proudest moment.

Response by SGT William B. made Nov 23 at 2013 2:43 AM

2013-11-23T02:43:40-05:00

Annual Training with 301st MI Bn in Hawaii.  I was fresh out of AIT, and this was my first chance to attend AT in Hawaii with the unit.  I got there a couple days late due to having just signed up for a GOVCC and waiting for the orders to get cut.  When I arrived, it was Memorial Day weekend.  We went to the Punchbowl Memorial to help the Boy Scouts of America plant flowers and flags on the graves of 33,000 veterans killed in WWII, the Korean War, and Vietnam.  It was one of those moments that really made me think of the legacy of the Armed Forces and the sacrifices those before us made to better the US and other parts of the world.  There was one grave I remember fixing.  There was a semi-decent wind that day, and this grave had an American flag that split at the shaft and half of the flag was no longer stapled to the shaft.  Looking closer, the grave read "UNKNOWN."  I replaced the flag and left a nice bouquet on it; that poor soul deserved at least a proper flag on his memorial.  I kep the broken one; I have it displayed in my home office.  It always reminds me that someone gave his life in a previous conflict, and we don't even know his name.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 4:06 AM

2013-11-23T04:06:20-05:00

One base I have been to deploys and redeploys Marine units. One day while I was on orders there had been 2 fallen soldiers within the same week pass away in a unclose location. The great wing king himself sent out an email letting us know what time our fallen brothers were coming home with a flag drapped over them. Every individual military and civilian were outside either saluting or had their hand over their heart for the whole funneral procession. I felt it was the least I could have done to show my respects. I found out that both individuals were younger than myself. Being so moved by that day I volunteered for a deployment. I figured I'd help the cause and bring back those that are still down range. Until everyone comes home.....

Response by PO3 Brenton Holbrook made Nov 23 at 2013 7:15 AM

2013-11-23T07:15:33-05:00

Hello Major! I'd like to share my story as well. Thanks for putting this up here! I was serving at what is now Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. I was there when they officially changed the name from National Naval Medical Center, which is another argument for a different day/thread... :) My proudest military moment happened when I was working in the Anesthesia Dept at Bethesda. A MEDEVAC had just arrived and one patient was wheeled directly into the OR for a late night surgery, I was on Night Shift that night and assisted his Anesthesia Care Team. Maybe this is why I remember this patient so specifically but regardless I was happy with the turnout. He was a double amputee and lost his legs, and also had multiple other injuries. Over the next month or two, he slowly came to, realizing what had happened and where he was and I saw him at least a few times weekly being wheeled into surgery. All of a sudden, it hit me one day that I had not seen him in a long time at least a few weeks, I feared the worst and said a prayer for the family. About a month later I had gone down to Main Street to get a sub for lunch. When I was walking back to the lunch room upstairs I ran into a really nice older lady. I apologized and was about to go on my way when I saw who she began talking to. It was this soldier! He was with his whole family and I felt convicted to walk over and say hello. When I approached he asked if he knew me, which he probably saw me in the OR when he was looking around, so I responded with a "Yes, you do." I explained to him and his family that I was a member of the original receiving team in Anesthesia and assisted with many of his surgeries helping my providers as their Corpsman. I told them about how the doctors were confident about getting him able to walk again with prosthetics. I told them about the many surgeries that he went through that got him to where he was today. I told them about how he was constantly on my mind because of the night he came in, that he was the only one and so he somehow stuck to my memory. I told them about how I realized I hadn't seen him in so long and was afraid of what had happened and then I told them about the prayer I said. After I had finished his mom and sister were in tears and gave me a huge hug and told me thank you over and over again for helping him. I gave him a hug as well and said that I was happy to see him walking. We sat down to have lunch instead of me going back upstairs and they told me about how they discharged him from the hospital and he was staying in the Wounded Warrior Barracks they had just built, and about how he was fitted for the prosthetics and how they had just discharged him from his outpatient care and that they were finally going home soon. As an E3 being so low on the "totem pole," it was extremely rewarding to be able to experience such a thing. Later that night when I finally got home I thought back on what we had talked about and I am proud to say that I started to cry. They were tears of joy, and in a place where I had heard of many passing away, and of many people standing in the hallways crying on their cell phones talking to loved ones back home about the latest news they had just received, this cry relieved me of all those times knowing that while for some it was just time to go and that they would be forever in the memory of the American People for their ultimate sacrifice, there were still many more others who would be able to go home to their families and tell the stories of those brave people who gave their lives to protect what we have. And while some families go home sometimes to a feeling of an empty home, some will be able to reconnect with those who knew their loved one in the field and be able to share funny and amazing stories of heroism and bravery in the face of danger and slowly, but surely mending a broken heart. I am a man of faith in God, and while I may not pray everyday, as a Corpsman I do think everyday of those who were in the places I wasn't and those who have passed away and that I am proud to say that they were my brothers and sisters in arms. Even though I may not know all of them, I would gladly defend their honor and memory to those who choose to disrespect their character. Thank you for all you do. Respectfully, HM3 Brenton Holbrook

Response by CMC Robert Young made Nov 23 at 2013 8:57 AM

2013-11-23T08:57:37-05:00

I recently eclipsed what I thought was going to be my proudest moment by being selected as a Command Senior Chief (think USA/USMC CSM or USAF 1st SGT). Prior to this recent event, my proudest moment was while serving as Ops Boss at a maritime law enforcement and security unit. Most of our focus was riverine security of high value military cargo transiting the AOR, but because of our high speed low drag skills we periodically got drawn into other work. Such an opportunity arose when the harbor where we were stationed was selected for a very high profile international maritime event (17 countries represented with 100,000 plus spectators for four straight days). I went to my supervisor and asked if we needed to prep a plan to help out since we were not committed to a mission during the projected time frame. After conferring with the OIC (E9 in charge of our detachment), and command staff of our parent unit, the answer returned was that a multi agency taskforce had been formed. Our services would not be needed, and we were to use our scheduled down time for maintenance and training. The morning before this event was to begin, I was driving to work when my supervisor called my duty phone. The conversation was ever so brief; don't come to the office. Go directly to parent unit. The OIC is looking for you right now. I rerouted myself, and arrived to find the OIC with a large group of local, state, and federal law enforcement officials and the Coast Guard LT (O3) who was the project manager for the event. The LT had information strung out all over the room. There were bits and pieces of a duty rotation on a grease board. The LT was talking to everybody, and drawing on the board but it was clear that there was no progress being made, and that the resources available would not meet the demand for law enforcement, security or search & rescue contingencies. It was pretty much chaos. I watched for a moment until the OIC realized I was there. At that point, he very calmly looked at the LT, and said "Sir, if you'll get out of Senior Chief Young's way, he'll fix this for you." It took most of the day to develop a plan (duty schedule, logistics, contingency responses, commercial maritime traffic patterns, etc.) and to spin my unit up to help out, but by close of business, I had finalized all of the preparations and made all of the required notifications. We went to work less than 24 hours later. Prosecuted the mission with no mishaps or unmet contingencies. The best feeling was realizing the OIC's confidence in me to resolve a series of complicated issues that a group of officers had worked for more than a month without developing a practical solution. The LT came to me after the event and thanked me for bailing him out, and later endorsed a CGCM recommendation on my behalf. Long day. Long week. But there was nothing so satisfying as the OIC's confidence and the LT's thanks. Having just recently achieved another significant career goal, it makes me hope that there are still greater things that we all might accomplish even yet. Something of which to be even prouder.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 10:13 AM

2013-11-23T10:13:32-05:00

When I was the only SPC and below to receive an ARCOM for a six month deployment to Bosnia. It was initially denied by the TF Commander because of rank, but my Section NCOIC resubmitted it to our actually BDE Commander when we returned. He approved it and I was honored. The NCOIC taught me a valuable lesson about the "hustle" involved in taking care of your Soldiers.

Response by CPL Hayward Johnson made Nov 23 at 2013 8:24 PM

2013-11-23T20:24:09-05:00

My moment was when I earned my E.I.B. Expert Infantryman Badge. It was 2002 we had deployed to kuwait from Ft. Benning. It was hot as all hell out there. I had tried to earn my E.I.B in Korea once before but fell short due to a few stations that i had missed. But this time i was determined to get it. I had actually considered re-enlisting in the army for ranger school and all when i was doing the E.I.B training. It came down to the two last 2 stations which was call for fire and I.m.t. I did call for fire first and barely made it through there, When i came up to IMT i knew there was no way possible for me to mess it up... i dug my kevlar into the ground as i was low crawling, made sure my butt wasnt in the air as i was high crawling and made sure i hit the ground and rolled when i was up he saw me and i was down...i didnt leave room for error...when i stood up from the last movement i screamed as loud as i could...E.I.B to let everyone know i made it

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 8:49 PM

2013-11-23T20:49:57-05:00

I told a bit about this event once before here,  but while I was at Ramstein, AB, Germany a friend was sexually assaulted and had become pregnant.   Tired of all the opinionated voices telling her what to do,  she turned to me.   She asked me what I thought she should do.  Abort or not?  I said that is not up to me,  but whatever you choose,  I will be supportive.    She started crying,  telling me that I was the only one who left it up to her.    She decided to keep the baby,  who she give to a couple who could not have kids. I am proud of that because she trusted me to confide things that she would not tell others.  Proud as an NCO and Supervisor and proud as a man to try and understand a female and a friend.

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Nov 23 at 2013 10:07 PM

2013-11-23T22:07:52-05:00

I have had many personal accomplishments over 25 years, but my proudest Four (yes FOUR) moments have been when I put my Infantry Blue Cord on my son's uniform upon his graduation from Infantry OSUT, his graduation from the Special Forces Qualification Course, getting to do a deployment with him in Afghanistan last year, and most recently his graduation from Ranger School. Once he joined the Army my accomplishments have taken a back seat and I look forward to see where his journey leads him to next.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 10:29 PM

2013-11-23T22:29:39-05:00

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.

Response by Lt Col Luis A. Rojas made Nov 23 at 2013 10:42 PM

2013-11-23T22:42:28-05:00

In my +25-year Air Force career so far, I have had several proud military moments, but the ones that come to mind was when I was blessed with the additional duty of Base Honor Guard OIC at Whiteman AFB MO and Goodfellow AFB TX. I felt very proud of my Honor Guard team...sharpest and most professional enlisted members I have ever worked with. I was always proud of them at each and every funeral detail that we attended.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 11:04 PM

2013-11-23T23:04:04-05:00

I would say that my proudest military moment so far would be the day I commissioned as an officer. I remember the look of pride in my wife and parents' face. It was a significant milestone that I wanted to achieve for years as an enlisted soldier, and the moment I did felt like I had finally concluded a significant chapter in my life.

Response by SFC James Baber made Nov 24 at 2013 12:11 AM

2013-11-24T00:11:56-05:00

I have had many of my own and many family related, the two that stand out the most were pinning my daughters gold bar on and rendering her the first salute she received, and also giving my eldest son his blood stripes when he made it into the NCO Corps.

Response by CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2013 12:14 AM

2013-11-24T00:14:58-05:00

My proudest moment is when I was commissioned as a Warrant Officer and my wife was able to pin me. That was the first promotion ceremony she was able to attend and participate in my career.

Response by PO2 Pete Haga made Nov 24 at 2013 12:40 AM

2013-11-24T00:40:17-05:00

when we were off the coast of Iran in the Persian gulf for a show of force during the hostage crisis. very tense and within 25 miles of the coast and U.S. navy ships and planes every where nothing like seeing a carrier task force together in tight formation. scared the hell out of the Iran navy for sure they had our old PT boats and tried to use them against us. and to think I went to A school with some of those sailors in the Iranian Navy we trained them and they tried to use it against us.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2013 7:36 PM

2013-11-24T19:36:58-05:00

I believe the most memorable and proudest moment was when the detachment that I deployed with in which we supported K2, Uzbekistan, Joint Operations Base during Operation Enduring Freedom, 2002-2003. We had many support missions which were located in Afghanistan, and those Soldiers that met along the way. After all the awards, coins and accolades of acknowledgements. The Best would be from the Soldiers from the Detachment. When I dismissed them to release them from the company area to be with their families.

They stood there and ask me to stand fast. The Soldiers, My Soldiers saluted me and stated " We would deploy with You again SFC Tamez, anywhere in the world, On any Mission! Thank you!" I stood there looking upon proud men. Men that any officer or senior noncommission officer could count on, and had a great deployment experience. I would soon PCS to another unit a few months later, a major subordinate command to gain a new position and job title. "

"God Bless Those NCO's Who Have Great Leadership Skills, Knowledge, and Experience to Past It On To Soldiers That Are Challenged To Fill Your Boots."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2013 9:24 PM

2013-11-24T21:24:23-05:00

I feel I am my most successful when the Soldiers I work for, with, teach, mentor, or assist reach back and let me know they're ok and tell me what's going on with them and what goals they've reached and tie that into something they learned from me. Best feeling ever........ I feel like a Mom whose kid graduated college or something!!

I love reaching my own goals and obtaining more knowledge daily, but ^^ that is like a slice of Heaven!

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Nov 25 at 2013 12:03 AM

2013-11-25T00:03:15-05:00

Selection to Sergeant Major...solidifies that hard work and taking care of Soldiers pays off.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2013 2:12 AM

2013-11-25T02:12:46-05:00

This may be a little off course here but by the time I was finished as an observer and moved on to forecasting,  the job description for the observer had changed.   My doing radar obs, toxic corridors,  skew-t plots,  alert birds CCTV briefings and a few more things had helped the forecaster out and made his job less stressful.    My first supervisor was astonished that I knew what a Line Echo Wave Pattern and spotted one of the radar.    Winds from that stormed that topped out at over 80,000 foot storm was 88kph. That was one of my coolest technical achievements.    Observers no longer had a lot of time to sit around and complain.   I would tell them that the soldiers and airman who had really hard jobs might go off on them for complaining when the infantry type slept on frozen ground on bit up by mosquitoes.  My brother was Army and that it is the hardest job in the military.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2013 6:03 PM

2013-11-25T18:03:30-05:00

I understand that my moment might not shine as much as others, but it's still my best without a doubt. It was when I passed my SGT board.

Now I'm a SSG, so that might leave some to wonder why I wasn't prouder of getting my rocker. The simple fact is, I had transferred from Active Duty to a National Guard unit and the promotion board was just a paper board. Getting my E6 was pretty lackluster compared to getting my stripes. I stood before all the company First Sergeants and the BN Sergeant Major, showed them what I knew, and rose above several of my peers.

So, allow me to get off topic when I say: Paper Boards are for the birds.

Response by MAJ Bryan Zeski made Nov 25 at 2013 11:45 PM

2013-11-25T23:45:26-05:00

Bringing everyone in my company back from Afghanistan.

Response by CDR Richard Tucker made Nov 26 at 2013 1:45 PM

2013-11-26T13:45:14-05:00

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.

Response by SGT Brendan Beely made Nov 26 at 2013 2:03 PM

2013-11-26T14:03:54-05:00

So, no crap, there I was....I was up next on the rotation to fly with the Army Burn Flight Team. We get alerted that there was a burn victim waiting for us in Landstuhl. So we kit up, and hit the airport. 10 hours later, we were in Frankfurt, catching our cab to the hospital. When we arrived, we found a soldier that had been blown up, was the only survivor from his vehicle, and was severly burned.

We went to work doing what we do - dressing changes, inspecting the inside of his lungs, optimizing all his numbers and values for the trip home - all under the ever vigilant eyes of his wife, that had been flown out to Germany to be with her husband.

The next day, we load up on a C-17 Globemaster III and begin the trek home. This individual didn't tolerate the flight well, though, and began crashing almost as soon as we took off. Me, being the respiratory therapist, took over manual ventilations, as he wasn't tolerating the breathing machine well. For about 7 1/2 hours of our 11 hour flight, through an in-flight refeuling and landing, there I was, strapped in to the litter, breathing for this soldier manually, as his wife watched from about 8 feet away.

He survived, and made as much of a full recovery as possible. With teary eyes, he asked if I would speak at his medical retirement. That speech was one of my proudest moments - knowing that I had saved this soldier's life in one of the most austere environments: with limited supplies and equipment, 40,000 feet above an ocean with nowhere to go for help.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Dec 2 at 2013 7:48 PM

2013-12-02T19:48:36-05:00

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...

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2013 6:21 PM

2013-12-17T18:21:35-05:00

Hello all, just checking-in to say 'thank you' for sharing your inspirational military stories; also, please feel free to upload any photos, add links to video, sound files, or anything else that will help you to tell your stories. Thanks again folks, and... thank you all for your outstanding service!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2014 9:03 PM

2014-01-06T21:03:31-05:00

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.

Response by SPC Christopher Morehouse made Jan 6 at 2014 9:50 PM

2014-01-06T21:50:52-05:00

This may be long winded, sorry.

I was in the Honor Guard in western NY and I was damn proud, but my proudest moment in the Army also happens to be one of my more embarrassing (not most embarrassing) fuck ups (pardon my french, but it was). Let me set the scene for you.

It is late in 2004, and SPC Morehouse is an automatic riflemen currently at the RPC palace complex just around the corner from Baghdad Airport. My unit was running security for the special peoples that operated out of there, patrolling the local village type places and chasing down mortars and such. While operating there we got a tip of some possible bad people living in this house inside our AO, and SPC Morehouse is about to go on his very first raid, Hooaa!

Now the plan was, just as the sun was coming in our company would roll in on this house out in the middle of no where from all directions, our hummers would roll in right up to the front door, my platoon would all spill out, line up, and go in. Before that, my team leader and I where charged with reconing the house, to ensure nothing changed between night fall and when our guys where going to be rolling up. Man I thought I was hot shit, crawling around with my SAW and my NVG's, my team leader had a thermal scope, and we skulked around that place for about an hour, and then right before sun up did another sweep, krept right up to the building and checked the entry point to make sure it was clear. All was good to go.

Since no plan survives, well, damn near anything, moments after sun up my company XO's hummer comes rolling up to us, and he's shouting "Where the F is so and so" . Man I just wanted to scream at him to shut his flippin mouth and get the F out of here. I didn't of course, because he was the 1st lt and I a lowly SPC. I thought he was going to blow the whole thing, but I think he eventually figured out where he was and drove off. Moments later the rest of our guys came pulling in fast, poored out of the hummers and lined up at the door.

I was the # 3 guy in the stack. we went in. Now we spent the last couple days going over how to say "Lay down on the ground" in arabic. I swear though, when we went in, all you could hear is a dozen 11B all screaming "Get on the fucking ground!" (this came up as an 'improve' later on in our AAR)

We took the first room, grabbed a bunch of guys and gals, and I stayed in that first room as part of the security force there. My squad leader threw me some guy and told me to cuff him and put him against the wall with the others.

Now here is SPC Morehouse, all hopped up on adrenalin and in the moment. I grab a pair of flex cuffs hanging off my body armor, grab the guys hands, zip zip, and toss him against the wall. We start to collect the others from being sent our way as the rest of our guys continue clearing the building. We take it without a shot fired, and it looks to be a grand total of like 5 families living in this place.

Eventually, standing guard over the men, I notice the guy I cuffed wiggling and hopping around on the balls of his feet as he is crouched over against the wall. He looks like he has to pee or something. (I promise, the proud moment is coming).

It turns out, when I zipped him up, I had put the cuffs on waaaaaaaaaay too tight. I looked at the guys hands and they where a pretty deep purple, and his little pee dance was accompanied by a tormented look of pain on his face. I told my swuad leader and he came over and had the guy get up so we could get the cuffs off. He couldn't, so second squad leader tried. No go. Now I'm thinking "oh shit, I hope this guys a bad guy because I might have just cost him his hands". It didn't come to all that fo course, because my squad leader wiped out his gerber and just sawed the things off. Man did that guy look relieved, and the color started slowly to fill back into his hands. At this time my squad leader relieved me of securing the prisoners, and I went outside and got on my gun in my hmmwv. I spent the rest of the search (we where looking for weapons caches) manning my gun, and feeling pretty horrible about messing up the guys hands, even if it did end up all right.

So we searched these peoples house for 2 hours. It got pretty well torn apart. I mean every piece of clothing, furnature, rugs, we swept the yard, dug up some patchs in their little stable/goat fence thing, the works. We didn't find a thing. Turns out one of the heads of the family was actually an Iraqi police force officer. They where frikin on our side!

Towards the end of the search, I notice the guy I cuffed standing at the door I had checked just that morning. The door to his house, that I invaded, woke his kids, cuffed him and tossed him against a wall, and made his hands turn a color no human being has any business being. He was standin at the door watching me, and next to him was a little boy, maybe 7 or 8. He had his hand on the boys soldier, and I couldn't make out the look on his face but he said something to the boy and pointed at me.

The boy came running up to the hmmwv, and said in that way anyone who spent any time patrolling those villages knows "mista mista" and then he tossed me something, and ran back to his dad. I caught it and took a look. It was a ripe, red apple. It had a little bruise on one side. I looked back at the man and his boy, he waved to me and went back inside.

A little while later I saw my team leader come out the front door talking to the man. They spoke for another few minutes, then my team leader came back to the vehicle and told me we where packing it up. I crouched down, curious what the guy had said and told me team leader "Well they took that pretty well".

This is what my team leader told me. He said, "Yeah, well that guy you cuffed told me they are just so happy we didn't kill them. That his son there with him, and he said that back before we got here, if the Republican Guard had received the kind of tip we got, they would have come and killed them all and then searched the house."

I didn't say anything. I just stood back up and manned my gun. The guy was out there again, in front of the house with a bunch of other people from the other families. He waved and did a bunch of others, and all the kids. They shouted good buys and farewells. I waved back. I still had a hard time processing what I had just heard.

here we came in, rolled up just at sun up. Came into their house. Separated them from their women and children, and then ransacked the place. All because we got a half way credible tip that they had a weapons stock for local insurgents. And they where grateful. Grateful to us. Grateful to ME. Because the status quo before we got there would have had them all dead before they where found to be innocent.

It was one of the many culture shocks I received in Iraq, but I remember coming away from that raid feeling very proud to be an American soldier. Because for the first time I actually got to see that me, and those wearing the uniform with me, WHERE making a big difference in the world. God I wish I could have kept the apple frozen in time. I would place it higher then any of my medals, my campaign ribbon, or my CIB.

I gave a year of my life in Iraq, but I helped take a little evil out of the world. I still can't believe what kind of world they must have lived in, but I was then, and am still today, damn proud I was part of changing it.

Response by Lt Col Don Daugherty made Jan 8 at 2014 7:56 PM

2014-01-08T19:56:54-05:00

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.

Response by SFC James Baber made Jan 11 at 2014 10:32 PM

2014-01-11T22:32:52-05:00

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.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2014 12:40 AM

2014-02-09T00:40:34-05:00

Oh gosh, so many. None are remotely close to what many have already posted, but I was in the Army at a different time with a lot less adrenaline!

- Finding a never-before-used spot for my EW jammer at NTC. Even the O/Cs said no one had ever found that place before, and driving the HMMWV up there was pretty gnarly (man, I love driving those things!). We kicked ass on that mission (until the BC came to see what all the fuss was about, leading the OPFOR right to us, thanks ma'am.... *rolling eyes*) My team was named Heroes of the Rotation. Rock on.

- Being named night-shift NCOIC for the aviation brigade S2 shop in Bosnia over others of higher rank and experience. That meant I wrote the INTSUM that was disseminated around the country that our flight crews used to stay out of trouble. I also gave the morning briefing to the Bde Cmdr and the rest of the day staff. As a SPC not even trained as a 96B. When I rotated out of country, the Bde S2 OIC said he'd never seen anyone do as good a job. Got an ARCOM for it, too.

- Many years later, and now an Army civilian, supporting 1000+ armor Soldiers through an OIF deployment as the battalion Family Readiness Support Assistant. We had the best rear detachment team of all time, between the rear d commander and 1SG, the battalion cmdr's wife, and the eight company FRG leaders. I didn't realize how awesome a team we were until they came back (didn't lose a single Soldier!), the BC changed command, and I PCSed away. I still get contacted from people involved that say how much they appreciated all that I did for them. An awesome two years.

- And although this isn't technically my moment, the day my husband took responsibility for his first company as a 1SG. I was smiling so hard I felt like my head was about to split open. He'd been working his whole career for that moment, and it was finally his turn. It's still surreal seeing him wear the diamond.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2014 12:54 AM

2014-02-09T00:54:57-05:00

Successfully leading a squad downrange and bringing them all back.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2014 5:53 PM

2014-03-01T17:53:48-05:00

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!

Response by SFC Gary (Bigsarge) Portier USARMY RET. made Mar 11 at 2014 12:36 PM

2014-03-11T12:36:03-04:00

Becoming and Being a Total Army Instructor.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Mar 26 at 2014 10:19 AM

2014-03-26T10:19:49-04:00

It will be in 37 days, when I rotate out of BN command.

I was proud, and surprised, to be selected. It turned out to much more work, and much more satisfying that I could have ever expected. The unit is visibly better in each and every metric I can think of, and I am giving the new CDR a well-oiled machine.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2014 10:52 PM

2014-03-26T22:52:41-04:00

I would say it happened last year when my unit and I got back from our annual training. I decided to order pizza for everyone as a final celebration. When everything was winding down, a corporal came up to me and told me that my AGR SFC and myself had influenced him to reenlist due to how the two of us lead the unit. The corporal told me that myself and the senior NCO gave him confidence that there is still good leadership in the Army. I would say that I was proud to have that happen more than actually commissioning.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Mar 27 at 2014 11:23 PM

2014-03-27T23:23:17-04:00

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.

Response by SGT Lucas Serna made Apr 1 at 2014 12:35 PM

2014-04-01T12:35:42-04:00

When I ETS'd from the active component after five years it was so close to my BDE's return from OIF that my unit had no time to process any kind of PCS/ETS award. My supervisor, with whom I had spent the previous 3 1/2 years, took it upon his self to have a plaque made and mailed it to me a month or so after I got out. He included a short note explaining that, in his opinion, when I decided not to re-up the Army had lost one of its finest NCOs and the best soldier he had ever supervised. While I understand that the note was merely a reflection of one man's opinion it confirmed to me that I had done my duty well. I valued those words from a fellow soldier far more than any of the accolades I earned during my time in service; I still do. If anyone was in a position to critique my abilities as a soldier it was him.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 2 at 2014 4:01 AM

2014-04-02T04:01:38-04:00

We Sailors are big on ceremony and tradition, When you retire a Boatswains Mate from 1st Division, "Pipes" you over the side (Group of tones on the Boatswains Whistle) One of the oldest rates in the Navy a Hard, Rough Group that are the Kings of Shipboard Ceremony. They fight at the drop of a hat because they can. Word filtered up to me that there was almost a knock down dragout in 1st Div Berthing over who would have the Honor of Piping CT1 over the side. If that doesn't give you a big head nothing will. Most OODs weren't very polite to the guys in 1st Div, I treated them with the same respect that I expected to be treated with.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2014 9:33 PM

2014-04-15T21:33:36-04:00

I have had quite a few. But, the the two that pop into mind immediately is when I first became a Career Counselor I was assigned to Madigan Army Medical Center, a WTB was one of the units in which I was responsible. This Combat Engineer had his arm blown off by an IED in Iraq. He fought tooth and nail to get a Continuation of Active Duty (COAD) agreement. The only thing he wanted was to go BACK to Iraq with his Engineer unit and lead his Soldiers. I am very proud to have helped this Soldier work this issue. It was a very proud moment to see this warrior raise his right hand.

The other moment was moving across the berm in Iraq with the FLOT within an hour of the start of the ground war. It was amazing to see Joint Air/Land battle at its finest.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2014 8:13 PM

2014-04-16T20:13:37-04:00

I think I just had it yesterday when I passed JMPI. I was so excited I tried to hug the Black Hat. Then I ran inside and slid 10 feet along the newly waxed floor up to the control table with a big smile on my face. The control table Black Hat said, "So... I take it you're a go?"

What makes it uniquely military is that I can't begin to explain to my family how big of a deal that was, or how hard it was to someone that hasn't been to Jumpmaster School yet. I feel like I climbed Mt. McKinley and I can't tell anyone.

Response by PFC Glen King made Apr 17 at 2014 11:12 AM

2014-04-17T11:12:14-04:00

When I graduated the Ranger Indoctrination Program and dawned my Beret!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2014 11:40 AM

2014-04-17T11:40:26-04:00

My proudest moment was as an Army Reserve Company Commander speaking at my outgoing Change of Command Ceremony. My wife and pre-teen daughters were in the audience. As I highlighted what the Company had accomplished during my time in Command. I was interrupted after each milestone event with a rousing HOOAH from my soldiers and each one was progressively more enthusiastic. Although, my daughters did not exactly know what HOOAH meant, it was clear to them that I had a very positive impact on this large group of soldiers. The pride I felt was shining through their eyes and told me that they understood why I sacrificed time with them to serve in the Army Reserves.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2014 9:59 AM

2014-04-27T09:59:32-04:00

After the Twin Towers fell, my Guard unit sent "Push packages" to help with the recovery and and 4 mos after 9/11 my unit itself, was charged with pulling security around and on the Holland and Linclon Tunels between NJ/NY. I was able to go to Ground Zero, as I stood on the roof of the Fire House overlooking the site I thought, here I am on, duty, on my own soil. This We'll Defend"

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2014 6:59 PM

2014-05-03T18:59:04-04:00

In the USCG, very few (if any) folks enlist with a guaranteed career school - you wait until you are advanced to E-3 and then put your name on a waiting list for any school you both want and for which you are qualified.

We had a non-rate (E-2 at the time) that wanted to be an aviator SO bad... but had barely flunked the color-vision test. Talking with him one day, I suggested that he request to re-take it. He perked up and asked, "They let you do that?!?!"

A couple of days later, he tested... and flunked by one card - a different one from before. He was crushed.

I made a quick call to a buddy in medical and found out that if he waited 30 days, he could retake it.

Flash forward 30 days, I sent him again. He flunked by one card...

He ended up taking that damned test FIVE times before he finally passed it. I never really thought about it - he wanted something and I knew how he could get it - and if he missed a half-day of work every month, nobody was going to die - so why NOT send him??

He put his name on the Aviation Structural Mechanic list and six months later he left for school. I never thought another thing about it.

Flash forward several years and I get a letter in the mail with a pic of him, his wife, and child - next to a Coast Guard helicopter... HIS helo. He thanked me for everything I had done, and said that I had changed his life.

Crap - I didn't do a damned thing but look out for one of my people. I will say that that letter was my proudest military award I ever received... and the envelope is background in my shadowbox.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Oct 18 at 2014 10:10 AM

2014-10-18T10:10:31-04:00

My proudest military moment was being able to push through promotion paperwork for three Soldiers, obtain re-enlistment bonuses for four Soldiers, and re-arranging an R&R schedule to support a Soldier and his family while maintaing 100% mission accomplishment. The crowning accomplishment came from my BN CDR who stated "you are the best Detachment Sergeant I have seen in my 24 years in the Army." My accomplishments were always about mission accomplishment and taking care of troops. The greatest satisfaction I had was in the success of the Soldiers I mentored.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Oct 19 at 2014 8:00 AM

2014-10-19T08:00:00-04:00

It was when my training, skill, and valor all came together as one in a rescue I performed. Although not recognized, I know what I did to save two men from possible death.

A diesel tanker jackknifed and rolled on a narrow two-lane mountain curve. I saw it coming and stopped my loaded bus short and pulled to the shoulder. The driver was partially ejected during the rollover. The wreckage stopped just 50 feet in front of me and diesel was flowing out of the tanks like a river.

I backed the bus away to a safe distance and threw on my school bus warning flashers. I jumped out and ran to the wreck, shin deep in diesel fuel. With help from a couple others on the bus, we extracted the two men inside the cab. I treated the men for trauma and we flagged down a scout helicopter to radio for help. (No cell phones back then.) CHP and emergency crews eventually responded.

Still made my run to Ft. Ord after going back to the barracks to clean up.

Response by CPO Bernie Penkin made Oct 19 at 2014 1:49 PM

2014-10-19T13:49:44-04:00

I was advanced to Chief in September of 2001. Due to the events of 9/11 Chief's Initiation was pushed back a month due to all that was going on. My proudest moment came at the end of initiation. After going through the entire process of initiation rites, building a hat box and everything else I stood in the line of new chiefs. Got chills down my spine as the Chief's Creed was read and my wife pinned my anchors on. That was the day I BECAME a real Chief.

Response by SSG Louis Marucci made Nov 24 at 2014 5:14 AM

2014-11-24T05:14:23-05:00

One of my sons went to college on an ROTC Scholarship. Because I had been an NCO, he asked me if I would give him his first salute at his commissioning. Proudest moment of my life.

Response by MSgt Bj Jones made Dec 6 at 2014 1:16 AM

2014-12-06T01:16:09-05:00

For me, it would have to be the time I won a gold medal in an international Military shooting competition on Dachstein Mountain in Obertraun Austria, May 2010. I was the only American and the only woman to get a gold medal in that competition. It was pretty funny being an Air Force woman outshooting a bunch of US Army men, who had won silver and bronze medals. The other gold medalists were German and Austrian military. There were eight countries competing. If you're asking about service specific, well, crazy as it may sound, it would probably be the time my boss (a SMSgt at the time) told me my greatest skill was as a supervisor (which is what he rated me highest on in my feedback). That was a surprise to me. Yes, that means more to me than any medals I received or any other accolades I've gotten.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2014 7:33 AM

2014-12-06T07:33:28-05:00

My 2 yr old (well, he was 1.5 at the time) removed my CPT rank for my MAJ pinning ceremony:

Response by CW3 Clayton C. made Dec 6 at 2014 7:56 AM

2014-12-06T07:56:58-05:00

Sir,

I have so many that cannot be compared with one another.

When I received my Eagle Globe and Anchor from Drill Instructor Sergeant Borders was my first defining moment. I hadn't done anything special and I had no idea what would be in store for me afterwards, but I wasn't expecting the emotional response that we all had.

The next defining moment was when I received my Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge from SFC Dave Grotkin. That was the culmination of a lot of training and learning. When he pinned me he said, "Now that you've passed the course, you get to learn how to be an EOD Tech." At the time I had no idea what he meant, but I learned quickly that even thought I'd just passed one of the most difficult schools the military has to offer, I still didn't know a damn thing about my new job.

Recently I was selected to attend Warrant Officer Candidate School. I expect that after completing WOCS (hopefully) I will have yet another defining moment in my career. I find it difficult to differentiate between my first two moments, as they meant so much to me but for very different reasons.

Response by SSG Peter Ludlum made Dec 6 at 2014 9:48 AM

2014-12-06T09:48:11-05:00

In 2000 I had a female E-4 who had been one for a long time and was always getting passed over because we had a dumbass Readiness NCO who didn't think females should be SGT's and she was done with it and was not going to re-enlist. Since I also worked for the Guard as a civilian I knew how to get around this problem. I told her to just hang on and let me see what I could do. I found a way around this poor excuse for a Readiness NCO and next month to his surprise orders came down for her promotion. He knew I had something to do with it but could never prove it. At his retirement ceremony I told him and happily sent him on his way. Now this newly minted SGT was again told by me that she needs to shoot higher and go to OCS. in 2002 she graduated OCS and I had the honor of her first salute. Today MAJ (P) Donna WU is now an environmental Chief at National Guard Bureau. She has been not just an NCO but a company commander in Iraq and a Battalion XO. She has 4 different tours in the zone. Had this young SP4 quit the military would have lost out on a great leader. I have accomplished many things for myself but the accomplishments of those I mentored are my proudest moments. A wise drill SGT once told a young recruit that our accomplishments are gauged by those we mentor and their accomplishments and not the medals and ribbons we receive. I am a far better person for knowing each and being a part of the growth of the troops under my tutelage.

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Dec 6 at 2014 3:42 PM

2014-12-06T15:42:24-05:00

I have a couple my first was when i pinned my warfare device on my first deployment. It was not easy but well worth it. Then completing my deployment to Iraq i tried for 3 deployments prior to get to Iraq/Afghanistan and when i finally completed it it marked that i I got to take part in something bigger then myself.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2014 5:09 PM

2014-12-06T17:09:31-05:00

For me, my proudest moment so far, as it's only been a year and a half, was the day I graduated tech school. That day I got to wear my new stripes for the first time, it made me so happy. I waited months for those stripes.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2014 5:12 PM

2014-12-06T17:12:39-05:00

I think for my mom it was the day before I graduated basic. She came to lackland and the first time she saw me was the airmans run. She cried when she came to hug me out of formation after the coin ceremony. It was beautiful.

Response by 1LT David Moeglein made Dec 6 at 2014 6:09 PM

2014-12-06T18:09:07-05:00

I have two moments that made me feel especially proud during my military service. The first one was when I was a supply clerk in a cavalry OSUT unit. We went out to qualify with the M16. A number of drill sergeants in the unit had been dogging me out. I out shot all of them at the range, getting my expert rifle badge. My troop commander came up to me in front of them, put his arm on my shoulder with a big smile, and proudly exclaimed, "Supply." One of the drill sergeants later coached me through the process to shoot expert in pistol as well. I very much appreciate his having done this.

Another proud moment was when I was in Korea. I was the battalion staff duty officer when we were alerted that there was a sergeant who found out his wife wanted a divorce, and was planning to jump off the 3rd floor barracks roof. I went out on the edge of the roof with him and talked him down. It felt good to know that he and his children would have a continued relationship, and that it didn't end that day.

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made Dec 6 at 2014 7:12 PM

2014-12-06T19:12:39-05:00

Mar 13 2004... The day I brought my whole company back from Iraq alive... It was a transportation company POL... We only had 5 wounded and no dead. If you think that is easy... Stop and think about it. On that day I realized that there were a number of former 1SGs of mine that id probably had made very proud. Not to mention the families of the soldier's.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Dec 7 at 2014 2:55 PM

2014-12-07T14:55:26-05:00

Col Private RallyPoint Member Sir, my proudest moment came as Detachment Sergeant of the 1149th MP DET (CID) at Camp Mabry in Austin, TX. I organized and was able to have a Major Command, Command Sergeant Major preside over the 1st NCO induction ceremony held in the command. To have a group of NCOs experience the history and tradition of our "corps" and cross that symbolic line, while embracing the values and leadership responsibilities inherent in being an NCO truly made me proud. A tie for me, was when I was the 1SG for a deployed CID unit and we returned home with the same people we deployed with. There have been many moments, but the majority of my self satisfaction came from helping other Soldiers, performing for my unit, and accomplishing the mission.

Response by SSG Regina Golding made Dec 7 at 2014 3:49 PM

2014-12-07T15:49:57-05:00

My proudest moment was after an extended deployment my CSM singled me out in front of my whole company to give me his coin. It was completely unexpected and as a young Specialist I was almost in tears. Ah good times!

Response by SGM Gregory Tarancon IV made Jan 11 at 2015 12:18 PM

2015-01-11T12:18:10-05:00

I have had many proud moments in my military career, but if I had to pick one I would say that it has to be my Son’s (1LT Greg Tarancon; https://www.rallypoint.com/profiles/341934-11a-infantry-officer) graduation from the United States Military Academy class of 2013 and having my boss (Brigadier General Sean Mulholland) fly down for his graduation and pinning his 2nd Lieutenant bars. As a father, I can think of anything that instills pride and honor than having your son follow in your footsteps.

1LT Rifle Platoon Leader at 1-26 IN, 2nd BCT, 101st ABN, XVIII ABN CORPS | 11A: Infantry Officer...

11A: Infantry Officer, 1LT, Army | RallyPoint professional military profile.

Response by SGT(P) Bruce Van Havermaet made Feb 21 at 2015 4:30 PM

2015-02-21T16:30:42-05:00

I've had a lot I would have to say completing pldc in 1985 30 day's of hard training at FT.LEWIS and our trainer's were all at one time rangers.

Response by PO1 Matthew Maxon made Jun 19 at 2015 11:35 AM

2015-06-19T11:35:23-04:00

I was E5 and the senior elevator technician by training and rank. I had my Navy Lt. directly order me to bypass a safety to expedite the ammo onload. I refused the order and then went to find the regulation in the Navy Technical Manual. The only person who can order me to bypass a safety is the CO in writing.

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Aug 3 at 2015 2:24 PM

2015-08-03T14:24:11-04:00

Making Chief Petty Officer!

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2015 2:39 PM

2015-08-03T14:39:25-04:00

That's a tough question Sergeant. I've performed on many Honor Guard and Color Guard ceremonies that all could easily take the cake on my proudest moment, and making Third Class among those. I'd have to say among them all, my proudest moment might be carrying the American Flag in a Color Guard ceremony for the SkyBall which took place on an airport in one of the hangers. A lot a nerves trying to take over in front of hundreds, maybe over a thousand people who's direct attention is on you. Never missed a beat though. Hoo-Yah.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 3 at 2015 3:45 PM

2015-08-03T15:45:12-04:00

One day I walked into a WTU and saw and E-6 and E-7 with eyes that looked into space. I introduced myself and told them, if they listen to me I was going to give their lives back to them. I coached them for a few months and they got better and started to enjoy life as evidence of their smiling and laughing. The two were sitting at a table laughing and I said, "See you are not fvcked up anymore." And we all laughed.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 3 at 2015 6:18 PM

2015-08-03T18:18:33-04:00

I have many. My favorite moments were the awards and decorations ceremonies I got to attend either for myself or my subordinates or peers

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2015 7:22 PM

2015-08-03T19:22:16-04:00

Had to be my promotion to CW4. Most of my immediate family was able to attend the promotion, including my father, who passed away a couple years later. That was a very proud moment in my career and my life.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2015 8:17 PM

2015-08-03T20:17:58-04:00

The day one of my soldiers (who had ETSed over a year ago) contacted me to thank me for all the help and guidance we (NCO'S running our maintenance shop) had provided him during his time with us until he finaled out of the Army. He also contacted me to let us know how our mentorship helped him find a career that he really enjoyed.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Dec 11 at 2015 12:00 AM

2015-12-11T00:00:36-05:00

I was a SSG (11B) working at the V Corps Rear, G3 Ops section during a Corps FTX. My job was in terrain management, tracking all units, bases/base clusters, I worked the 2000 - 0800 shift, loved it as most of the "big boys" weren't there. One night the Ops Officer came to me, "SSG Dawson, grab your overlay and get it to the briefing map. We've just had a SPF(special purpose forces) insertion deep in the Rear AO and the DCC has called a meeting". "In the old days" we did acetate overlays with icons taped to the map showing unit/base locations, it was coordinated with the briefing area map so I could just set it on. Each section to brief had an overlay. I got mine posted and was prepared with my unit listings. I had been briefed where the insertion was and marked it on my map.
The DCC took over the meeting. "SSG Dawson, what units are near the drop zone?" The only base near (about 150k) I noted this and gave the types of units there. In the base was an EPW cage. So the DCC began his around the room asking the section OIC/NCOICs what effect this would have and for their input. As I stood in the back listening it came to me - What if the force came with a bunch of weapons, headed for the EPW cage and liberated the POWs, they could effectively double their force. I was standing by a Major, I leaned over to him and asked him the question. He replied, no this wouldn't happen, but it kept bugging me. No one in the room said anything, including the Major when it was his time to speak! At the end the DCC asked if there was anything else. Well being a SSG in the midst of high rank, I was a little hesitant, but I lifted my hand like a school boy. The DCC called on me and I spoke my piece. Holy Cow, did his eyes light up! He immediately called on the MP OIC and asked how many POWs were there. The MP NOCIC quickly went and got the info, returning informed there was over 450. The DCC then made the decision to call out the QRF. He told the MPs to muster all the local troops they could to support the base. The QRF (1/4 Inf) was to form a blocking maneuver. By this time my shift was over, my OIC was at work, so I was told to take off. Later that afternoon I stopped by around 1600 (nothing else to do), and everyone was doing nothing. I asked my OIC what was going on. She told me we'd "killed the computer" (the game came out of Ft. Leavenworth). The insertion was to take up a day's play, but by the immediate action taken by the DCC, we snipped it in the bud! On the last day of the FTX the DCC presented me with his coin.
I have others, but in my military career, this one always stands out because no matter what your rank is, if you got "that feeling", don't be afraid to speak!
CSM Private RallyPoint Member, SGM Private RallyPoint Member, LTC Stephen F., LTC Stephen C. LTC Scott O'Neil , TSgt Hunter Logan SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4",

Response by MSG Wally Carmichael made Dec 11 at 2015 3:04 PM

2015-12-11T15:04:57-05:00

Leading the team that finally won the Force Skills Competition at MFO, Sinai Egypt. That last US team that won was 14 years prior. I received an impact ARCOM from, at the time, COL Petraeus, Brigade Commander 504 PIR, 82nd ABN DIV.

Response by Lt Col Harry Clawson made Feb 8 at 2017 11:51 PM

2017-02-08T23:51:32-05:00

9 Oct 2001, aircraft commander of one of the six original AC-130s sent to fight the enemy and destroy them like the evil cowards my great uncles faced in Nazi Europe. As we coasted eastbound out over the Atlantic, we made our last line of sight radio call to the US air traffic control. Ther replied, 'You are cleared to contact Oceanic Control...And thank you for all you do!' I'll never forget that moment--we were all quiet and I was thanking God for all the years of training and education, of exercise and study and sweat and His good providence that brought me to that moment-- to let me be ready and able to take the fight to the enemy less than one month after their hideous attack. I was a part of kicking their evil ass straight to Hell for the next decade and 9 more deployments into box, but nothing ever beat the knowledge that day. With surety of purpose, we were bringing a most righteous reckoning to a most deserving enemy -- or as Wyatt Earp was once purported to have said- 'You tell them We're coming! You tell them I'm coming and Hell's coming with me!'. Hoorah!

Response by CPO james A. Redd Jr made Feb 13 at 2017 5:20 PM

2017-02-13T17:20:22-05:00

MY most proud moment was at a change of command ceremony. I was the Lead Ceremonial Sideboy. As the Incoming New skipper came thru the line he looked at me directly as he passed. And the Old Capt. came thru next, he did the same thing. I started to get a weird feeling in my gut. We were given the order to Parade Rest. And your mind goes kinda blank as all the talking heads go on and on about this and that. I was just kind a waiting until we got the A Ten HUT call. Then! I heard my name called and the order for Front And Center!
Pop To attention, One step back, and snap a quick rt face and walk to the podium.
All the Blah Blah Reporting as ordered sir!
He then opens one of the Big Blue Binders and goes into all the list of things that Command thought I did great in.
He then Comes upto me and Hands me a BT1 patch and Saluted Me First!
Command Action Promotion!
He then says "Stand Fast PO1 Redd and he goes back to the podium and opens another Big Blue Binder and recites My first Navy Achievement Medal for some field op we did earlier in the year.
I thought my Dixie cup was gonna fly of my head and my Blouse was gonna shred I was excited!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 12:47 PM

2018-02-07T12:47:44-05:00

1) Surviving Iraq
2) Making Sergeant
3) Making Staff Sergeant

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 12:47 PM

2018-02-07T12:47:53-05:00

I think for me it was earning an EFMB. Crossing the finish line of the road march was an amazing feeling.

Response by SGT David T. made Feb 7 at 2018 12:54 PM

2018-02-07T12:54:50-05:00

The day I got my DD-214 that says honorable.

Response by SFC Gary Guyer made Feb 7 at 2018 2:26 PM

2018-02-07T14:26:06-05:00

Graduating EOD School

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 5:39 PM

2018-02-07T17:39:23-05:00

Surviving CSTX at McCoy in August 2017 with my sanity (mostly) intact MSG Private RallyPoint Member

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 6:22 PM

2018-02-07T18:22:09-05:00

MSG Private RallyPoint Member The day that I earned the title of United States Marine, and the day that I left Vietnam, when so many brothers did not.

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Feb 7 at 2018 7:22 PM

2018-02-07T19:22:28-05:00

Getting a free ride home from the RVN 1967 ,thanks USAF your stewardess weren't the greatest looking and there was no inflight movie but the absolute best plane ( ok aircraft) I've ever and I mean ever taken.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 7:37 PM

2018-02-07T19:37:17-05:00

Completing the Airman's Education and Commissioning (AECP). That required taking completing 120 semester hours in 2 years and 7 months.