Sharing one lesson at a time
Deciding that you want to join any branch of the armed forces is a big decision. People do it for a host of different reasons. Raising your right hand and swearing the oath are only the first step. Words are valuable, but it is our actions that determine that value. It doesn’t take any courage …
Continue reading "Lesson 12: Respect is earned by enlisted, expected by commissioned"
There is a rivalry that exists between all the branches that stretches throughout history. It is an ongoing understanding that the branch you serve with is the only branch that is needed and contributes the most towards national security and freedom. My personal experiences are no exception to this rule. I encountered friction and rivalries …
Most people go through life never having enough for everything to be ideal. You don’t have enough money, there aren’t enough people at your work to do the job efficiently, you don’t have the proper tools, you have the proper tools, but not enough of them, the list goes on. There are times when you …
Like anything in life, there are always going to be benefits and drawbacks. The military is no exception. The military can be efficient, but it is far from perfect. Every branch has its different functions and place in the bigger picture. Every branch is top notch at what they do, but infallible they are not. …
From the moment that you get off the bus on that first day to the day you either separate or retire from your military service, there is no such thing as private property. Personal belongings are a myth. Everything is subject to inspection or review and even if you are considered proficient when it comes …
Continue reading "Lesson 8: There is no such thing as private property"
If only I had a dollar for every time I, or my colleagues, asked “why are we doing it this way?” or “What is the purpose of this action, other than compromising security?” I assure you, there would be no need for me to ever work another day in my life. For nearly 23 years …
This is a lesson that you learn on day one of military basic training. The instructors are trained to put you through one of the most uncomfortable situations of your life. It is a part of an effort to weed out the members who cannot handle the stresses that accompany military service and lifestyle. To …
Continue reading "Lesson 6: There is such a thing as stupid questions"
The overall concept of “One team, one fight,” is a good one, in my opinion. In theory, if an entire organization were able to consistently operate using that philosophy as the backbone of their functioning, they would be unstoppable. Sadly, it has been my experience that no organization is able to fully implement it as …
Continue reading "Lesson 5: One team, one fight, when convenient"
Please don’t misunderstand the title. This is not a gender specific concept. This is just what we used to say in the military about the person who engages in any kind of unacceptable behavior. We all know at least one, and a time has arisen at some point in your life, whether you know it …
Life isn’t always fair. Things don’t always go the way you want them to. Movies, in most cases, tend to let good triumph over evil, but real life will teach you that is not always, if ever, the case. The military is no exception. There are always more questions than answers. Why is he getting …
