We are conducting a new poll among our veteran readers to see what the number one reason people joined the military for.
Please take a second and let us know below, and make sure to check out the results of other vets after you submit your response.
We are conducting a new poll among our veteran readers to see what the number one reason people joined the military for.
Please take a second and let us know below, and make sure to check out the results of other vets after you submit your response.
MY FATHER, TWO UNCLES AND 4 BROTHER-IN-LAWS WAS IN DURING WW-2 AND KOREA. I WANTED TO SERVE ALSO BECAUSE IT WAS THE THING WE DID BACK THEN. THERE WERE 10 PEOPLE THAT WENT TO THE DIFFRENT SERVICES WHEN I GRADUATED. HAD A GREAT TIME AND GOT TO SEE A LOT OF DIFFRENT COUNTRIES. ALSO MY SON SPENT 20YRS IN THE AIR FORCE. IT IS JUST A FAMILY THING TO DO.
1960 president johnson said – 18 years old go sign up for the draft – I graduated from high school on May 18, birthday in August – did not want to go in the army – signed up for the navy – 2 yrs 11 months in the Navy – nuclear weapons tech – Bon Homme Richard Cva31 – 2nd class petty officer
I was 7 years old when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. For the next 5 years WWII was all you heard on the radio and saw in the movies. The whole country was watching and hearing every step of the war. When it ended people celebrated in the streets. I wanted to follow in the footsteps of Eisenhower , McArthur and Patton. I did.
wanted to be proud to serve my country! My brother was a marine as well. I wanted to make it a career, but it didn’t work out. I was thrown down the stairs by DI hitting the back of my head on the doorstop, knocking me out. When I came to, I was told to walk to the infirmary I did. I don’t remember it; I woke up in the infirmary in the ICU and was told that I had a concussion. spent a little over a week there. Then I found out there was a coverup. how it happened. And that destroyed respect. And got out. I went in to make it a career. Very disappointed.
ImA Vietnam Vet Got herring lose and severe back problems. getting 30 percent compensation. but there cheating all Vets because they only pay you when you file for it. They should pay every one from the day it happened. They really care about us. Dam we deserve that money.
I join the Air Force after a 5 day fire which burn the barn and 69 head of cattle, Age 17 had a banker tell Me to sign for $118,000 was more then I could do when I was a twin. and my DAD THEN SAY A WORD stting next to Me. Next day at school recuitor was there talking to senirs class . I choice the Air Force and then went home to have them sign to let Me join . WHen active June 12 ,1964 return home after 9 months in Veitnam 1968 .
I was drafted in November of 1969, during the Viet Nam War. I’m a California Japanese American and met so many nice guys from all around America. Caucasian guys from Texas, Kentucky, South Carolina,
Rhode Island, Nebraska, Massachusetts, Maine, and an African American guy from Arkansas.
Learned so much about cultural America in the late 60’s and early 70’s. Made deep friendship with all these guys, and loyalty in the Army.
My dad was a lumberjack and WW2 navy vet. I had uncles in the Air Force and Army, one who died on the Bataan Death March and one who was seriously wounded in Korea. We were relatively poo. In the state we lived in (NH) college was fairly expensive and out of our reach. I decided to join the military (Army) and take advantage of the GI Bill. Upon my return from Vietnam I learned that there were Junior Colleges that had extremely low tuition prices, Needless to say I decided to stay. My son and daughter-in-law both joined the Navy and spent four years in Asia. Thanks to the GI Bill we were able to get productive well paying jobs. I would encourage any young people to take advantage of the military.
My university required 2yrs
of ROTC. I reupped for the next two years to avoid the draft notice I received during the summer between my Southmore and Junior year of college.
My mother and grandmother dropped me off at the Recruiter office. And I joined that day and the next week I was off to boot camp. Probably was the best move I had ever made. I made the right decision that day and even though I only stayed 4 years but it made me grow-up. Thank you mom!
My Father was in the Army, my uncle was in the Navy, My brother was in Navy and I was in Army. my father died when i was year old.
My father was Marine in WW2
Yes. I also was influenced by
my Grandfather, Father, and
Uncle’s, they were/are WW I,
WWII EUROPE & PACIFIC,
KOREAN CONFLICTS.
I was VIETNAM ERA, so with
Military/Naval family history
I joined US NAVY !!!
I was going to college when the Korean was on and I heard that I was going
To be drafted. I was 18 years old. I joined the Navy for 4 years.
I was in the – Army 1967 , Vietnam era
My older son – Navy
Gulf war
.My younger son -Airforce , Iraq
Graduated high school and no money for college, poor and wrong color. Most jobs available were boring with very limited upward growth possibilities. All my uncles were military and cool. Joined to be cool like them and the adventure they boasted about. Ended having a blast and many adventures, never bored. Retired at 23 years, finished college, taught high school math, retired again. Military was easier than teaching high school, it wasn’t the kids it was the upper level management were there for themselves and would abandon you in a heart beat.
The reason for joining the Military was a movie that i seen call TO HELL AND BACK and that my father served in the second World War. I was married at 16 and their were no jobs making enough money to take care of my wife and daughter. When I turn 17 I join the Army. Served 21 years and retired as a captain. Went to OCS as a staff Sgt at age 27 and served twice in Vietnam. The Military gave me a chance to discover my talents in Track and Field and made two Olympic Teams in Tokyo Japan in 1964 and in Mexico City in 1968 winning a Gold Medal and to be in 12 Hall of Fames .The Military also gave me the opportunity to get a College degree going to at school at night. There are a lot more things that I can say about how the Military made me the person that I am today but it would take more time. If you read my Book The Expression of Hope you can see some of my life Stories. Thank you and Godspeed.
Tried college for a year…did like what was going on on campus in’64/’65, so I joined the Navy b/c I had a favorite uncle who was in submarines before and during the war and it sounded interesting. I spent 7 years in subs (Nuclear Power program) and went back to college after discharge… finished with a Maste’s degree and a great career in civilian nuclear power.
I enlisted in the Air Force due the fact that I was to be drafted by the Army, just 3 weeks after my father died. He was a 28 year career Master Combat Command Pilot flying the B52 and was lost during a sortie, and not knowing at the time I was to be given an appointment to the USAF Academy. When I received my appointment letter, I was informed by my commander that I could not go, so I spent my 4 years as a Pararescue and as a enlisted soldier, I PROUDLY served my country doing 2 tours in Vietnam at DaNang AF Base from 1971-1973 and medically retired in 1975. Using my GI Bill, got my degree spending 15 years in Finance and 19 years in the IT world.
Serving the navy 1972 Enjoy the experience Traveling back-and-forth to To Europe It was a great experience As a young man I would encourage every young man to join the service God speed
I joined the service to become a US Navy Pilot. I decided I wanted to be a pilot when I was in the 8th grade and one of my classmates had an older brother who was attending the US Naval Academy and told him I wanted to be a pilot, so the brother got to me and talked me into becoming a Navy pilot. So I made it my plan to attend the Academy and did well enough in high school and was able to get an appointment to the Naval Academy and then graduated and was selected for Navy Flight Training which I completed and then became a US Navy Pilot for a career in the US Navy
i joined when i turned 17 to serve my country and get out for a more exciting life/ joined the marine corps/ and it changed my life a lot/
I joined when I was 20 years old. I always wanted to be in the military since I was a kid. I had 2 uncles in the army and another was a SeaBee during WWI. My Father was in the Army during Korea and I had a cousin in the Airforce during Vietnam. I wanted to as much as I felt it was my family duty to follow in my family’s footsteps. Because of my college education I started as a PFC in the 101st Airborne Division Air Assault at Ft Campbell in 1980. I was medically discharged from my 2nd station of Ft. Stewart/Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. Both stations had their ups and downs good times and bad but I consider Ft. Campbell my home. If I had it to do all over again I would but I’d stay on Ft. Campbell. I stand up for my brother and sisters in and out of uniform because we have to remember what I’ve got your 6 really means regardless of uniform. Although let’s be honest The Army Is The Best! Lol
No Seabees in WW1
I was 18 just graduated high school and wasn’t off to a very good start in life was homeless just lost my job and not lying to really look towards so my best friend sat me down at lunch one day said he was going to talk to a recruiter and convinced me to go talk to one too said before I say no just listen to what the recruiter had to say and if it was better than the situation I was in then I should join…needless to say I was getting off the bus and on my face two weeks later. Unfortunately due to health issues had to get out at 8 years. During that time I found my family and purpose….since I’ve been out I feel I’ve lost my sense of purpose and self.
I joined the Marine Corps to get out the heck of the house. My Dad was tougher than any DI I had in bootcamp. The only problem I had in bootcamp was my was keeping my pie hole closed. I am like my brother Donald J. Trump. If I have something to say I said it. and at 67 years young I still say whats on my mind. Thats something I will take to my grave. By the way I did 20 years and retired as a GySgt (E-7). I live on 4 pensions now and I can’t complain wouldn’t do any good no nobody would give a rats ass anyway.
Trump was a DRAFT DODGER 🙄
The respect I did not get in high school. I was bulled all four years of school, but when I got home after boot camp and was walking down the sidewalk wearing that USMC uniform and three of the bully’s without anything been said moved out of my way. (that there were serval thousand Marines along side of me might have had something to do with it)
I joined the army in 1976/1982 i was 18 years old. I know Freedom is not Free!!! I Believe all the young people should join and learn how life Really is in our world. My father was in WWll . he tough me everything i know + how too fix things Right my self because it cost. Lots of money to hire someone to fix it !! And thats my motorcycle’ he got me at age 11years i had to keep it running and i did… People was allways wanting me to fix there motorcycle cars trucks Etc… Thats how i learned plus lots of other things Electric welding and fiting and all kinds of other things… Now i have young ones im teaching them the things my father tough me….. And so on and so on… Freedom is not Free!!!!! God Bless America land of the Free.home of Brave. Keepon keeping on… Greg Mc innis
No regrets, drafted during college trying to qualify for the Navy Aviation Cadet program. Ended up flying Army helicopters and airplanes for 20 years. Served in the 1st Air Cavalry 68-69 Vietnam, 2nd Infantry Division Korea, Three wonderful years in Germany, Retired as a Major, Master Army Aviator and just a great career. We moved 18 times in twenty years, raised 3 military brats all good citizens with great jobs, and proud of the family history of military service.
I was born in a military hospital, Ft. Benning. I always wanted to be a soldier for as long as could remember. I join the military at the age of 17 in 1974. My first tour was in Seoul Korea, I knew then I was going to make a career in the military. Eventually, I served in Panama twice and in Germany. I had many great stateside assignments as well. Raised three beautiful girls who are well-rounded young ladies. I served 22 years and should have done at least 30 years. I have always been patriotic and wanted to serve our great nation. I wish more young people would take advantage of the great opportunities to see the world and serve our great nation.
To fulfill my lifetime achievements,service to my country and the people of the U.S.A.!
I was going to college when the Korean War was on. I was 18 years old and I was
Going to be drafted into the Army. I joined the Navy and was stationed on a
Destroyer for 3 1/2 years and spent most of the time in the war zone.
When I graduated highschool I wasn’t interested in going to college or in being drafted, so I enlisted.
I spent my sophomore year in a military school, so I knew what I was signing up for.
In 1966 AD, if you could walk and had a heartbeat, and had no exceptions, you were going to get a letter from the Selective Service Board to serve a minimum of 2 years in the army.
I chose to enlist in a better branch of service, instead!
I was drafted into army in 1965. So joined USAF. Olunteered for Chinese language school. Was accepted. Was selected for airborne program. Flew off coast of Soviet Union, North Korea, East ans South China, Gulf of Tonkinand over Laos. Ended up flying off coast of N Korea in an AF EC121 after NKs shot down a Navy EC121.Thought was going to crash and die on my last mission. Had over 2800hours in the air.
I wanted to serve my country, and see the world. I also wanted to surf around the world, never got a chance to surf, my ship the U.S.S. Inchon (LPH-12) was almost always deployed. I first got on my ship in 1982 in Beruit Lebanon, also was able to travel all over Europe. It was a real adventure!!!
Dad Army. The Draft, Vietnam. I’m USAF retired. Am very happy to have served my country, wish I could do more now.
All of my family members was in Military dad and three brothers ,and myself. I am Helen my husband James Preston Jones Sr has passed away.
Since the age of 12, when my brother joined the Army, I wanted to follow in his footsteps. As I came to age, life was pulling me in another direction but at the end of my junior year in high school, my parents sat me down and said they could not afford to pay for me to go to college. That sealed the deal and I joined the Army strictly for the GI Bill benefits. After three years I became sick of how the Army treats its soldiers and went to the Air National Guard. Then after 9/11, I went on active duty in the Air Force. While I joined for the GI Bill, I continued to serve to retirement because of a sense of pride for my country.
When I join the military, though I wanted it for the benefits, I felt very proud to serve my country. As of today, I don’t recognize this country. I hate to say it’s the republican party that makes this country look and sound very bad. I know that there are some Republican veterans who probably be upset with me. But how could you vote for someone who’ divide a great country and how could you just be so selfish and think about what you want than what’s best for the country. . This whole country is Nothing more than immigrants. I really believe that this country was going in the right direction when we voted for Obama. The only good thing that tRump did was exploit all the racism and hatred that was hiding. I’ve never experience racism until I join the military. And most of all I never knew that it would hamper my advancement in the military. So though I serve my country, at times, I feel embarrassed. God Bless America and Stop the Hate!!!
I disagree that the republicans have divided the country, but you have to go back before the most recent all the way back to Clinton. Anyone who calls half the country terrorists shouldn’t be a leader and I have heard the major democrats say that repeatedly since clinton. As a Republican, I am smaller government and self responsibility. The government shouldn’t be in everything, particularly the federal government. The constitution is clear, these senior leaders were never mentioned to be a career. All of our representatives and leaders need to be term limits, and connected to their constituency. We do not work for them, they work for us. To many think they are elite and above the normal constituents.
Well said
We live in the Greatest Country in the world but Trump and people like trump tried to change this country way of life. Trump divided this country and wanted to be a Dictator if you and people like you don’t see it should look at January 6th and what the republican and trump is still doing to make the American people suffer with Hate and changing weman rights and respect for all peoples
Totally agree
I totally agree with you my sister in arms. It is very embarrassing. I pray for change in the right direction every day. It is 2022 and there is still racism. I am sure GOD frowns on America.
You are so wrong. You just have to look at what the democraps have done. And you probably don’t know the US constitution. I served my country too ! The only time our economy and security was strong was with the republicans in control.
You are so right!
What Republicans?? The real ones or the Trumpers?
yes ,you can have your Republicans and your Democrats,,but this country has no place for the Trump family…………………now lets get back to being American Veterans,,which no one in that family were,
You’ve got your party’s mixed!!!
It’s the Dummyrats that are ruining our country!!! Wake up and pay attention!!!
Open boarders! Inflation! Oil dependence from our enemies!
Corruption through out the Democrat Party. Bidens are compromised!!!
Thank you for stating the truth about your times in the Military and the way Trump divided this country. God Bless you and thank you for your service.
I HAD A FATHWER, TWO UNCLES AND TWO FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY THAT WAS IN WORLD WAR 2. I DID NOT WANT TO GO TO COLLEGE. ALL I WANTED TO DO WAS JOIN THE MILITARY.
I CHOSE my military service- as best I could. I joined a Civil Affairs/ Military Govt. company. Did my
basic training at Ft. Knox.
When Russia loaded their ships with missiles- headed for Cuba, MY orders were cut for Ft. Gordon- GA and we readied to go to Cuba. (I believe BECAUSE of our country’s response to this threat,-at least in part- RUSSIA turned their ships (carrying missiles -to be aimed at the U.S.) and took the missiles back to Russia, and a potential WAR was averted..
Now this is MY view of how this whole scenario played out, and I am pleased / grateful that this
WAR was averted!
I joined up because it was the only way I could see to get out of my parents’ house and on my own. The immense pride in serving my country slowly built over the next few years, and I ended up retiring as a CW4 after 28 years.
I joined the service to serve my country and would do it again if I could. Frankly, the benefits that are offered are incredible IN short, I am proud to be an American and having serve my country.
I was 19 years old and I was proud to serve my country
I was born to be a soldier…a tanker. I was born to lead a desperate ‘charge’ that would save all my colleagues lives. It happened…to a greater or lesser extent. But to allow this vision to have a chance I had to first get into the Army, then guarantee I’d get an 11 series MOS. To do all this I had to destroy the direction my life had been taking for 19 years. I had to thwart untold obstacles to accomplish this, including screwing up a West Point appointment, screwing up my high school GPA (IQ 136), screwing up my first two years of university and not last but not least, maintaining an ongoing chart of lies, half truths and fabrications in order to not upset my family, friends et al.
I from a Military family! My Grandma was a WAC pilot. My dad 25 years submarines, “Plankowner” Nautilus. My wife and Army nurse. My son, carriers ” Plankowner ” USS John Stennis.
Drafted June 1967. Army basic then Directly to Vietnam as a front line grunt combat medic 67-sixty nine with the 2/7th cav. Lots of action Phan Thiet, the Idrang, Bong Song, Hue tet 68 meeting the NVA, S&D patrols in Quan Tri. April 68 cleared the way into Khe Sanh to relieve the Marines form the 77day siege by the NVA, then directly to the Ashau valley and on to The Iron triangle. Lots of action in each location. Returned from VN from 15mo in the Field as a front line combat medic with 1st Cav. Lots of action. Got back into school looked for a job in the medical field. All the jobs low pay and offered about the same challenge and advancement as burning shit. In college the kids seemed immature and in a different world from me. The Air National Guard approached me with an offer to Fly Airomedical Evacuation on C-97 and C-130 at the same pay and rank and the opportunity for advancement in rank. I could continue in college with the GI bill. I TOOK IT. Great training and professional friendships. Later transfered to the active Air Force reserves. Qualified in aeromedical evacuation on the C-141, C-9, KC-135. Flew 1000’s of hours world wide moving the wounded, the sick, and incapacitated to various locations as needed for treatment. Flew the wounded out of Desert Storm and patients from and to all the US, Alaska, Hawaii, Asia, the South Pacific, Europe, and more. Retired from the Air Force Reserves in 2000 as an E-9 with retirement and health benefits. Meanwhile finished college and continued in my civilian career as an engineer in water systems. Welcome home brothers
Thank you, Sir for all you have seen and done for our country at home and abroad.
I joined for a regular paycheck. In 1983, construction work was spotty, and I was tired of being laid off. I joined the Army as a medic, stayed for just over 20 years and am extremely grateful that I did. HOOAH!
I was, as a young boy always fascinated by the Navy. I joined when I was 16 and of course after 5 months they caught up with me and booted me out. At 18 I rejoined and served 3.5 years with the regular Navy until I found out the Seabees were still active. 1954 I transferred over and went to Port Hueneme, CA for schooling and training.
Talk about a great career!! I enjoyed every minute of it even in Vietnam. Retired 1971, and the benefits are great.
Like a lot of guys in 1969 I drew a low lottery number and knew I was likely going to be drafted. The Navy seemed the best choice for schools. I went to “A” school for Avionics and spent three cruises with an A4 Skyhawk Squadron aboard the Carrier USS Hancock, CVA-19. Supporting the war from a “bird farm” gave me purpose and kept me busy until I finished my enlistment in 1973. I got to see a lot of places and have many experiences which shaped the rest of my life. In retrospect, some of the best things a young man lacking in direction can do is travel and be exposed to many cultures and people, Military and civilian, American and foreign nationals It changes your whole outlook on life. My only objection was that the Navy dictated where, when, and how long I would be in each place. I do concur with many who praise the many friends and associates I gained during my enlistment. They were either extraordinary or borderline psychotic with traces of the moderately illiterate. There really didn’t seem to be much “middle-ground”. All-in-all, a good cross-section of the U.S. citizenry. That knowledge really helps you in determining where exactly you fit in.
Yea… I’m Viet Vet also.
Hello. A vet
The gi bill was monumental for me as it provided enough funds for me to go from Corpsman in my 4 years to master’s degree in civil engineering. And on to PhD via another veteran scholarship.
I was a boiler technician aboard the USS Oriskany CVA-34, a World War II carrier. I joined the Navy during peace time, volunteered, 1973-1976. The ship was a rust bucket, the first time I saw it was in Subic Bay, PI. Hot shitty job, but that’s what I did the rest of my life, either maintenance or boiler operator. Would I do it again? Sure would, but I’d change a ton of things, like go for 20yrs. A pension at 38yrs. old, can’t beat that. The government should’ve never quit the draft! I learned so much about myself in those 3yrs. To my brothers and sisters who are serving now, you are not forgotten, WE support you 100%.
My father served on the Oriskany in the Korean war. My brother took him to watch when they sunk it for a coral reef…tears in his eyes. He lost many friends on that ship. Thank you for your service.
O went in to serve my country and to learn how to be a man at the time I was young and hadn’t be anywhere at all I did learn those thing but I got hurt and all was lost no one could help me at all so o was told to go my way and find it out for my self . I have been trying what ever I could to get help the best way I could still no one made a difference so I out he making it the beast I can see.what I lost all these years. Stop
I joined the Airforce to be able to serve my country doing what I love to do…..nursing.. Being a nurse when I joined, I had hoped to further my career in nursing taking care of people
I do and did not believe, we should have been fighting a war in Vietnam. Too many soldiers were killed on both sides for nothing, but I felt a sense of duty to my country and joined the Navy. Too many people, today and back then lacked a sense of duty and humility. I’ve felt for many years that all Americans, in some capacity, should be in our military and/or Peace Corps to gain the gain the humility and respect of our nation. Their should not be any “Fortunate Sons and Daughters”!
Why are us Veterans treated so poorly. It is like getting a tooth pulled to get anything from our Government. Why is that
Most politicians don’t serve so they could care less about those that protect their asses – why are housing illegals and not our homeless veterans a priority
I was the daughter of a LtCol, USAFR Retired when I joined the AF Nurse Corps in 1972. Daddy had been a pilot in WWII, flying paratroopers into Normandy. It was second nature to care about my country and contribute to the cause. I served at 9 different bases in 23 1/2 yrs of active duty and retired as a LtCol like my Dad. I loved most every minute of my career. To this day, my best friends are those I met and made in the military, though many miles separate us all. May God continue to bless and keep our servicemen and women safe.
Joining the Marine Corps was just something that I had planned to do from a very early age. Two of my older brothers had served before me. It was just the thing to do.
I was a wired child. I used to read encyclopedias and almanacs. I fell in love with those Marine Corps Dress Blues when I was in -at grade!!
I joined to beat the draft and get out of the projects and see the world. Fell in love with paratroopers uniform. 🪂
I went into Submarines, I was on a Diseal then a nuke fast attack our of New London, and I would do it all over again.
I jolned the U.S.Navy during the Viet Nam area 1968 1972 to support my country I went to iet Nan 69 70 The men I servied with wer the best I ever met . I would do it again
I am satisfied
I salute you all. My first Captain, Captain Frederick F Klein III who put me on track toward a Naval career. CDR Tea, a Naval Pilot at CTF 73, Cubi Pt. Philippines. Captain Bontrop at NAVCAMS, Naples, Italy. Thereafter, I received orders for AMCC-1 in Hawaii. I stayed there as the OIC for 9.5 years because that was what I wanted to do. The most deployed AMCC in the world. Not one outage, not one glitch in my entire career. Never promoted after almost 10 years after that. In 9.5 years, we were never visited by by anyone except by an LDO Lt. who wanted to know how our PMS/MDS systems was working. His comments, an outstanding facility, outstanding records – Truthfully, I did not expect it. Not one of my people were promoted, including me. We never let anyone down and this is what we got for respect.
I had a great, great Uncle in the Civil War. 2 Great Uncle’s in WW1. Several Uncle’s in WW2 . My Father & several Uncle’s in Korea. A couple of older Cousins in Viet Nam. I felt that it was my duty to the Nation to serve in the Army. I’m glad that I did.
My family has a history of military service back to the American Revolution. My father fought in WWII, my Grandfather fought in the Spanish American War. My 2nd Great Grandfather fought in the Civil War, and several of my ancestors fought in the American Revolution. Both my sister and I served our country. I was in the Air Force, she joined the Army
i got to finish 10 th grade. joined the marines one day after turing 17 1954 korea found out i was in and surendered.LOL war o they let us out after two yrs.service i got my GED, graduated with my class 1956
Our country use to represent the moral and ethical values for the world. We were the best and pride was in everything we did! Multiple feeder into this pride were religion, Boy Scouts and male fraternities. Justice was quick and fair. Lawyers didn’t interpret the law just executed it. American focused on the future an didn’t dowel on the past.
To HONIOR THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR ALL!!!!!
In 1958 I was an undisciplined 17 year old high school graduate without any skills or experience. I knew I had to do something. I joined the marines for 4 years. Within the first week of boot camp I learned discipline. After 16 weeks of boot camp and infantry training I had a goal to be the best I could be. After 2 years as a radio operator which included 13 months in the far east, I was given the opportunity to go to electronics school. I graduated in a critical MOS.
After leaving the military I worked in aerospace with the skills I learned in the marines, and I went to night school. After 10 years of night school I graduated with honors and a degree in Business Administration. I spent 25 years as the CEO of a financial institution.
Joining the marines was one one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
I came to this country from war ravaged Germany. Most of my relatives served in various capacities in the German military. I joined as it was in my family background and I wanted to serve the United States.
I don’t care what country you come from the common soldier is OK. In WW2 Germany the SS and Gestapo were the worst men/women who enjoyed killing and torture. NOT all German men were this way.. Hitler and his Brown shirt thugs started everything bad. Read your history books and learn how it all happened. After WW1 there wasn’t any work, people were starving and German pride was broken. Hitler gave them a purpose to live and grow., work They built the best highway system known and it is still used today.. I don’t know how he got off doing what he did to the Jewish people., crazy. And immoral I lived in Germany for 3 years with the US Air Force and loved every min. of it.
I joined the USAF after College, as a preferential choice over threat of being Drafted. I was indeed fortunate for my service was basically early space activities, Apollo, deriving Space Shuttle Requirements , operating early IR&D space vehicles, Project Engineer for modernizing remote tracking stations, space vehicle integration into Space Shuttle missions, operating protype GPS satellite constellation and developing and deploying GPS ground system. A once in a lifetime opportunity to contribute and support USAF enhancing our National capabilities.
I joined the Navy in 1959. Wanted a career. Was on admiral’s staff in Japan. In charge of officers service records. Officers would fly over Vietnam just to collect hazardous duty pay without landing to get their orders stamped showing they were actually there. I would. Not approve thier request because our boys were dying there and these people were benefiting off their deaths. I was sent to a warehouse to stamp shipping orders for household goods for shipping back to the states. So I was so disaluted that I got out and never looked back. BEST MOVE I EVER MADE. GOD Bless our service men!!!!!!!!
I joined the navy in 1967 before my graduation because I wanted to serve my country, after Basic training in San Diego and Servile training I receive orders to Saigon Vietnam. The ship I was on was decommissioned in Hawaii, my new orders list to report to the NAME naval station where I worked on the YR-70 would ride on PBR’s and went from 1967-1968-1969-1970 . Why I stayed so long because when I came home first time people didn’t like the uniform that I was proud of and to meany fights. I’ve seen a lot of things that only combat personal see and not good. Went to Loma Linda Naval Hospital advised them that was hard to be home about the dreams,cold sweat been married for the wrong reasons never truest anyone they said it would go away in 2015 I went back because my life was nothing except for my two kids. All the mistakes and people I hurt from 1970 to 2015 life wasn’t good. The VA is helping now late but I have help !
Welcome home to all the Veterans who never got a welcome home from our country
Sir,
Worked for an LDO; LT Richard Hazard who was on gun boats in the Mekong Delta. Decorated up the Ying Yang. Don’t know whether he passed Lt. or not but should have. Relayed his experiences to me, because I expressed interest and told him my uncle served honorably in VN at Pleiku and Anh Khe from 66-67. I myself retired a CPO, Radioman. His stories are the only reason I stayed in the military. I would love to hear yours, as I am a writer who documents the heroics of the Brown Water Navy.
Joining the military was my childhood dream.
I wanted to see the world and get an education. Worked to get a congressman elected. He went to Washington, I went to the Naval Academy. Graduated in 1954 as an ensign, graduated in 1961 from Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. Went to sea and saw the world. Naval Academy offers 3500 calories of healthy diet per day, 8 hours per day in classroom, 8 hours per day at physical exercise, and 8 hours of sleep each night, plus summer cruises to far away places. Great life. Now 90 years old and would do it over again.
I joined the United States Air Force as an immigrant and served 20 years retiring in 1995. I loved the Air Force and was stationed in Alaska and other bases. I became a citizen in 1983 and became an Air Force recruiter in the NPS ( non prior service) and eventually a medical recruiter. I also have a grandson currently serving in the Air Force. Thanks
I served in the US Army (and then later the Ohio National Guard) as a 12B combat engineer from 1985-1992. Regrets? Yeah I probably could have been a better soldier but I was young and full of energy. I got to see some of the world out there. Panama , Korea . It was all ball busting strenuous work but I am glad I did it. Met and married my wife of 35 years now and live in a house financed thru the VA loan. Met many good guys also , some of which I can still contact today. Go Army!
I joined the military because I was in an unhealthy relationship and I wanted to do something different with my life. Really enjoyed the time spent in Germany, Korea, Kansas, Washington State, and Virginia. Being a soldier was an experience of a lifetime, now reaping the benefit of having served, is even better!! I met lots of really cool people, some of whom I will never forget, such as Sgt Jones,
Sgt Pendergrass, Spc4 Brown, in Bamberg, Germany. Also, CTJones, in Bamberg. SFC Robert Lee McCrary, in Ft Lewis, Washington, was the best motor sergeant ever. Also Sgt Michael Hayes, in Tongduchon, Korea. ( Camp Casey).
V.N. veteran. Drafted in Jan. 68 got to nam in July came home early in May of 69 . In the field f.o. for 4.2 mortars based between chu chi and Cambodia border. Stayed in the field .I was rto 6 months the rest of the time spent in fie. I went awal when could not find Judy my wife. Found out I was divorced no home no boat no car no rod n reels. Nothing left I would not take all the money in the world for the experience. But would not wish it on anyone. Did my dutie and it cost me everything I loved. Could not get job for 5 yes. Ptsd issues got help in 96. 100% .from 70 to 96 was the worst time in my life. I’ve got good woman 51 yes. I’ve put her and my kids through he’ll a lot of times. Thanks for reading part of my life story PFC C.A. YOUNG THANKS FOR SERVING WITH ME. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. HAPPY DREAMS
I don’t have any regrates joying the Army. The Army took care of me and my family no matter where we were stationed! If I had the chance to do it all again I would!! I served 22 years in the Army and my family was with me me every step of the way. We are all here to tell our story! 2 1/2 yrs in California, 5 years of Europe, 11 months in Korea, as a Commissary Officer, 11 months in Colorado, one year at
Ft. Cambell, 8 1/2 years at Ft. Knox, three of those years as a Drill Sergeant!! I am Extremely Proud of my accomplishments and Pleased knowing the my family was well taken care of!! Thank you Jesus and our Military Organization!
After my 22 years of service, I was able to do what I truly joued the Army for, College! I initially joined te Army for the education benefits. After serving 22 years in the Army I was finally able to do what I joined for. I didn’t want my parents to pay for me to go to college so I joined for the education benefits. I now have my Bachelor Degree in Business Management. Yes, My Parents got to see me complete what I joined the Army to do, 22 years later! Thank You Lord!
I joined the Navy to see e my country I didn’t know about nam but. I found out about it a week after I got on my frist ship we spent 10,mosthere and then I went back and drove a patrol boat for13 mos nam was not a convental warand I am paying for it now just like a lot of other guys
I joined the Air Force in September of 1978 and served on active duty, then went into the Air Force reserves and finally served in the California Air National Guard, retiring in 2018. I Saw several combat zones, went to many countries, met and made friends that I will never forget. I served to protect the belief’s of our country and I am proud of ever day of service. I was and still am, Proud to call myself an American and will proudly fly our great flag in my yard until the day I die.
I have few regrets having served in the military I was able to see much of the world, meet many interesting people, learn a trade, learn leadership skills and support my family. The military has also provided a retirement and health care for me and my family. My wife was the victim of medical malpractice in her early 20s by a few of the military doctors and has been disabled for much of her life. This made her ineligible to get SSi earn SS credits due to not being able to work. Also found that no matter if you are in the military or civilian life discrimination preferential treatment and circumventing the system was always a problem. The pay deployments, TDYs, housing and PCS moves were quite challenging to say the least. After retirement the friendships made monetary payments and health care are a great reward for those times. No regrets except for one.
In 1966 I lost my student deferment and became 1A, prime fillet for the draft. The choices at that time were to dessert to Canada and Lose your citizenship in disgrace or declare to be a conscientious objector or get a doctor’s note stating you have a bone spur (like Trump). I was not willing to go down that road. Instead, I was fortunate to enlist in the U.S. Navy Reserve. I’ve been rewarded with the GI bill & got a BA in business which led to a career. I’ve received loans to purchase a mortgage. I’m still receiving medical benefits. Finally, 2 WestPac tours on an Ammunition ship (during Viet Nam war) helped me realize what I could endure. I didn’t understand why we were there. I was glad I didn’t have to fight for my life or take a life.
I served during the Cuban crisis stationed in Iceland. I saw the Russian ships with the rockets laying on the deck as they sailed just south of Iceland. Didn’t know what they were until it was announced later that rockets had been delivered to Cuba.
Then in 1963 I was on leave in Rhode Island with my wife when my mother-in-law called me to see the TV. President Kennedy had been shot. All service personnel were told to report back to their base within 24 hours. I walked up to the corner, got the bus to Providence, then a train to NYC. At each destination there were personnel to help you get to your destination. Finally arrived at McGuire AF base and within a few hours I was on my way back to Iceland. Both of these incidents were life changing being n full alert and not knowing if war was coming. I am so proud of my service and the things I experienced and all he things I learned.
My youngest son served 20 years in the Navy. I am a proud father of a Master Chief Petty Officer. He flew in surveillance aircraft out of Japan.
Al Ortiz
I join the Army in the Vietnam era to defend our country, training, education and to focus for the future.
Same here!