Post by: Flyin6 on June 17, 2021, 08:48:32 AM
You know I may act all tough and big and bad, but I have to admit, I am really sad at seeing him leave, and I am a bit scared. How does that fit with my faith you ask? I can't answer that, but to say, in the end I am just a dad.
My boy who grew up in my home is so eager to be the best and toughest warrior in the Army. I know that there is someone out there wearing a different uniform who is tougher. We all have our champions and for every great and strong and brave soldier, there is an opposite and more equal. I am just not my good old happy, care free self. You see I seemed to have forgotten all the close calls, and just shucked it off, but now my son will soon be sent off to uncertain danger and I have to say I am not very good with that prospect.
Yea, I know that God watches over we fools, but God has a different way of looking at things than I do, and I wonder if he is getting it all right. I mean, I live in a country where right is wrong, where good is not good, and where liars and fakes rule the roost. My president is a stumbling old fool, and his VP nervously laughs her way through the difficult times. These are not the serious people I want making the big calls which may send my son off to war.
The culture will now teach him to accept and embrace those who choose immoral lifestyles, and he will hear that America started oppressing blacks in the 1600's. Although I strongly object and disagree, that is not the point. A minute spent talking about some freaks sexual orientation, is a minute not studying the art and craft of war. Soldiers in China are not concerned with opinions, but with martial arts, studying our army, and training on increasingly modern weapons. None of these freaking cowards who are now running our nation will ever do any of the heavy lifting, no, that task will ultimately fall on the shoulders of my son and the men around him.
He wants to complete Ranger school. He feels that is some ultimate test of manhood, and to some extent it may well be because it is tough, takes character and builds it, and shapes the man who wears that tab. Ultimately, Nate wants to become a green beret, and I really hope he makes it that far because from my experience, he will be the safest with those fierce men. I keep planting seeds about becoming an aviator, but my pearls are falling on rocky ground. He has not the heart to fly, but maybe he will change, I can only hope so
Post by: oklawall on June 17, 2021, 09:55:00 AM
I feel and know the pain your heart is going through. This was much easier when it was us kissing our loved ones goodbye and turning around and walking off to war, it sure put the shoe on the other foot when we are lovingly looking at their backs as they walk away and as a parent it has never gotten easier as time has passed. I do think you are right that Nate would be safer with a group of highly trained warriors in place of standard Army issue GI.
I'm probably not the best one to give advice on this but from having Doug come back safe and sound each deployment and Bret coming home in a flag draped casket. The list of things that I wish I had done/said has haunted me many times over the years. This has changed me. I know ensure everyone in my family knows how I feel about them, when we depart from each other I hold them a little longer and never leave anything unsaid. I have turned into a huger type of person that is in prayer for our military, my family and our country several times each day. Everyone in my faimly except my youngest grandson is saved so I know that I qill see them again but working on him.
I don't think that this helps you one bit and hope I didn't hijack your post. Just wanted to tell you that you aren't alone. I will be in prayer that Nate will return safe and sound to you.
Thank you for raising a warrior that wants to make the world a better place.
Blessing to you
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Post by: TexasRedNeck on June 17, 2021, 02:22:51 PM
Remember he chose Daniel to slay the giant, Goliath. His ways are not our ways and we do not know His mind, but we know He does not make mistakes.
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Post by: Bigdave_185 on June 17, 2021, 04:07:04 PM
It is amazing how sad our military has become. Soft _____foot chowder heads and as you said China and Russia are building soldiers with one intent, one goal.
Where all here with ya
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Post by: cj7ox on June 17, 2021, 04:50:57 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on June 20, 2021, 12:37:56 PM
Was just sharing my feelings at the moment. One day left, then we load him up at 0900 tomorrow.
Sean, He will be there on the 23rd, I think, but no look after needed, would not be fair or look right. I will visit with you at his graduation sometime in October, perhaps.
22 weeks of training, I think without the airborne school stuff
Post by: Atkinsmatt on June 20, 2021, 02:48:06 PM
Post by: cj7ox on June 21, 2021, 11:07:56 AM
Thanks everyone...
Was just sharing my feelings at the moment. One day left, then we load him up at 0900 tomorrow.
Sean, He will be there on the 23rd, I think, but no look after needed, would not be fair or look right. I will visit with you at his graduation sometime in October, perhaps.
22 weeks of training, I think without the airborne school stuff
Understood. I wasn't offering to go down and check on his training status, BTW (unless you want him to get a little extra "training" from the DS, LOL). If a need arises, though. I'm here. ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on June 21, 2021, 09:34:21 PM
We all shared in one terrific weekend together. We shot down at the farm, ate plenty of meals together, had lots of talk time, threw the young man a nice farewell party at a local venue which was well attended. We fished, ate more, swam, 4-wheeled until the wee hours last night.
This morning we drove him to the recruiting station where we said our goodbyes and amid hugs, tears and well wishes watched our young warrior get in a van and drive away.
He is at the regional admin center where he picks up his packet tomorrow after sleeping in a hotel tonight, then will depart Columbus OH around noon.
He will land in two hours in another Columbus in Georgia, then be bused to a reception center where he will process for a few days. He should be pushing down the earth and getting comfortable in a sawdust pit by Saturday.
He will be allowed one 15 min call after the completion of phase one in a few weeks, then another after phase two. I believe the Staff Sergeant said he will graduate from a basic phase in about ten weeks, but then roll immediately into the infantry school for another 12 weeks. There he will steadily get more and more privileges and should graduate from that between Halloween and Thanksgiving.
From there is the big unknown. If he stops with that, he will be assigned to some unit worldwide for his first assignment. If he makes it into Ranger school, then he will stay at Benning for another three weeks of Airborne school, then a couple weeks of a pre-Ranger course, then, I think, four more months of Ranger training.
I know his stated goal is to not only complete the Ranger course, but to actually be assigned to 1-75th, or 2-75th or 3-75th Ranger battalions.
I have advised him to interview with the special forces if they offer it to him, should that happen, add more than a year of additional training to all of the above...
Post by: kampfitt on June 22, 2021, 08:25:23 AM
Post by: oklawall on June 22, 2021, 08:48:57 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on June 22, 2021, 08:56:48 PM
Phone gets confiscated when he reaches the reception center.
He said he will get one last 30 second phone call. We are currently camped out around the phone awaiting that call...
Three out of four serve or served and the forth will almost certainly do his share as well.
Post by: Atkinsmatt on June 23, 2021, 06:59:18 AM
Post by: TexasRedNeck on June 23, 2021, 09:12:19 AM
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Post by: stlaser on June 23, 2021, 09:32:41 AM
Post by: EL TATE on June 23, 2021, 06:59:57 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on June 23, 2021, 08:59:25 PM
Thank you
We just did what we thought would have been right in God's eyes, and kept our king in the middle of things. We were not easy on them and by many accounts, perhaps a bit too tough. But real men usually grow up under some stress.
Anyway, it's comm out now, so we wait. Next window for a 30 sec call is 3-4 weeks I am told.
I did not know that new recruits are not allowed to sleep for 48-72 hours. And fed very little during the first 10 days. All part of resetting the biological clock.
Post by: Flyin6 on July 12, 2021, 08:57:21 AM
I am so very proud of my son for wearing the uniform and answering the call.
Third generation in a row, US Army
Now if I can just convince him to become an aviator!!! ;-)
Post by: TexasRedNeck on July 12, 2021, 11:20:38 AM
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Post by: oklawall on July 12, 2021, 01:50:11 PM
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Post by: cj7ox on July 12, 2021, 04:37:20 PM
Post by: Atkinsmatt on July 12, 2021, 07:27:29 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on July 13, 2021, 10:01:49 AM
Awesome pic, Big D! Looks like the boy is having fun.Doesn't he look boyish still?
I can't wait to see his pic after he has completed the Infantry school. I have a feeling they will cut his features a bit more gaunt!
The picture of him after Ranger school, if he gets to attend will have him liking like a cadaver...Those people don't eat or sleep!
Post by: Flyin6 on July 13, 2021, 10:02:04 AM
Thank him for me and my family pleaseWilco!
Post by: Flyin6 on August 14, 2021, 01:20:01 PM
Looking more like a soldier
Just advanced from Red to White phase
This is range day, first day he actually launched bullets from his M4
He gave that weapon some Norse name...
Post by: oklawall on August 14, 2021, 01:41:04 PM
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Post by: Nate on August 14, 2021, 07:08:01 PM
I thought you put him in the army and not the air force????? Since when does the army serve chow to trainees on plates, especially at the range or in the field!
Post by: Bob Smith on August 14, 2021, 08:26:53 PM
Post by: Sammconn on August 14, 2021, 11:42:18 PM
Stop lyin don, that boy is not at the range......This!
I thought you put him in the army and not the air force????? Since when does the army serve chow to trainees on plates, especially at the range or in the field!
Cmon. Bag lunch.
Eat it on your lap.
Post by: Nate on August 15, 2021, 12:26:47 AM
Stop lyin don, that boy is not at the range......This!
I thought you put him in the army and not the air force????? Since when does the army serve chow to trainees on plates, especially at the range or in the field!
Cmon. Bag lunch.
Eat it on your lap.
Heres your MRE, you have 10 minutes.....eat it now and taste it later!!!!!
Post by: Flyin6 on August 15, 2021, 10:25:22 AM
Stop lyin don, that boy is not at the range......That was range day. I figured out that the DI's served the chow to them, allowing it to get good and cold while standing there holding it, then gave them all 5 min to eat what they could...
I thought you put him in the army and not the air force????? Since when does the army serve chow to trainees on plates, especially at the range or in the field!
Post by: Flyin6 on August 15, 2021, 10:25:53 AM
Really, they get 5 min for each meal, not 10Stop lyin don, that boy is not at the range......This!
I thought you put him in the army and not the air force????? Since when does the army serve chow to trainees on plates, especially at the range or in the field!
Cmon. Bag lunch.
Eat it on your lap.
Heres your MRE, you have 10 minutes.....eat it now and taste it later!!!!!
Post by: dave945 on August 15, 2021, 02:47:35 PM
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Post by: Nate on August 15, 2021, 03:03:55 PM
Stop lyin don, that boy is not at the range......That was range day. I figured out that the DI's served the chow to them, allowing it to get good and cold while standing there holding it, then gave them all 5 min to eat what they could...
I thought you put him in the army and not the air force????? Since when does the army serve chow to trainees on plates, especially at the range or in the field!
Really, they get 5 min for each meal, not 10Stop lyin don, that boy is not at the range......This!
I thought you put him in the army and not the air force????? Since when does the army serve chow to trainees on plates, especially at the range or in the field!
Cmon. Bag lunch.
Eat it on your lap.
Heres your MRE, you have 10 minutes.....eat it now and taste it later!!!!!
:likebutton:
Post by: Nate on August 15, 2021, 03:04:49 PM
Dang, five minutes wouldn’t even be enough time to have looked at the drink menu at Basic. That’s inhumane!!!
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HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Post by: Flyin6 on September 10, 2021, 12:50:40 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on September 10, 2021, 12:51:39 PM
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 10, 2021, 01:01:09 PM
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Post by: Bob Smith on September 10, 2021, 01:25:07 PM
Post by: cj7ox on September 10, 2021, 02:11:45 PM
Post by: oklawall on September 10, 2021, 04:15:24 PM
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Post by: EL TATE on September 10, 2021, 05:09:51 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on September 10, 2021, 05:25:32 PM
Funny story: We were talking Sunday, his weekly call of four minutes. His mom asked him if he was getting along with everyone. He answered "No." She pressed, "You didn't get into a fight did you?" Him: "Yes, I did." Her: "How could you do that?"
Him: (Classic!!!) Mom, we are 160 guys all cooped up together, with a lot of testerone. They are teaching us how to kill people, how is that we wouldn't fight?"
Post by: KensAuto on September 10, 2021, 08:56:15 PM
Post by: stlaser on September 11, 2021, 05:28:23 PM
Post by: cj7ox on September 13, 2021, 11:46:35 AM
He is changing for sure
Funny story: We were talking Sunday, his weekly call of four minutes. His mom asked him if he was getting along with everyone. He answered "No." She pressed, "You didn't get into a fight did you?" Him: "Yes, I did." Her: "How could you do that?"
Him: (Classic!!!) Mom, we are 160 guys all cooped up together, with a lot of testerone. They are teaching us how to kill people, how is that we wouldn't fight?"
Perfect answer! And diplomatic, with no curse words...that boy may well be ossifer material! LOL!
Post by: Flyin6 on September 16, 2021, 09:08:58 PM
He is starting to at least listen to my suggestions concerning pilot training. Give him a year of being hot/sticky/filthy/ cold/drenched/frozen/sleep deprived/ and too many "police calls" and he will begin to hear me more clearly ;-)He is changing for sure
Funny story: We were talking Sunday, his weekly call of four minutes. His mom asked him if he was getting along with everyone. He answered "No." She pressed, "You didn't get into a fight did you?" Him: "Yes, I did." Her: "How could you do that?"
Him: (Classic!!!) Mom, we are 160 guys all cooped up together, with a lot of testerone. They are teaching us how to kill people, how is that we wouldn't fight?"
Perfect answer! And diplomatic, with no curse words...that boy may well be ossifer material! LOL!
Post by: Bob Smith on September 16, 2021, 10:27:08 PM
Post by: cj7ox on September 17, 2021, 09:28:08 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on September 17, 2021, 09:34:52 AM
In that amount of time he may wish to at least go to a mechanized unit. Being hot/sticky/filthy sucks a lot more when you have to walk everywhere. Oh, and Bradleys have heaters! LOL!He wants to get to the 101st now.
Post by: cj7ox on September 17, 2021, 09:46:30 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on September 17, 2021, 10:19:29 AM
That'll get him pretty close to home. And in close proximity to those whirlybird contraptions, maybe further convincing him to take up learning to drive them. ;-);-)
Post by: Flyin6 on September 26, 2021, 07:44:03 PM
He is shooting the M249 and M240 last week/next.
Hollywood shot:
Post by: oklawall on September 26, 2021, 08:59:06 PM
Post by: Higher Caliber on September 27, 2021, 02:48:39 AM
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Post by: Higher Caliber on September 27, 2021, 02:54:29 AM
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Post by: Nate on September 27, 2021, 01:19:00 PM
Post by: Higher Caliber on September 27, 2021, 02:31:34 PM
Its the new army my brother!!!I don’t know what to do with my hands so I’ll just throw them in the air.
I feel like if the new army has decided this is a better way to do it then us “old army” guys should be entitled to compensation.
This goes way beyond defective ear plugs.
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Post by: Flyin6 on September 27, 2021, 05:59:57 PM
This is OSUT infantry school?? At Ft Benning?? Who and how did this picture get taken? Why is there a kid in the kill zone wearing ear buds on a yoga mat? Who authorized the hoodie on the other fella? Why isn’t the floor shiny?? How is there time for these shenanigans?New, softer, more understanding and accommodating Armee!
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He is in OSUT, graduated from the "basic" phase a couple weeks ago, now in the straight-up AIT phase. Graduates in December just before Christmas.
Post by: Flyin6 on September 27, 2021, 06:02:12 PM
There’s stuff on the floor and the dirty laundry bags are full and camelbacks aren’t allowed. I have so much anxiety over this picture if SDS Carter saw this, the whole platoon would be deceased.So that pic is the second day of a two day pass down in the "CTA"
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It all gets cleaned up/polished by the end of the day. Looks to me like the buds there are cleaning up their gear, getting ready for the coming weeks instruction.
It's tough, I suppose. Nowhere near all of them made it this far. They are dropping kids/recycling weekly.
Correction, that pic is not the CTA...but his bay. I've seen it before. Has a high shine on the floor like you'd expect.
Post by: Higher Caliber on September 27, 2021, 06:44:43 PM
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Post by: cj7ox on September 28, 2021, 11:49:32 AM
:popcorn:
Post by: Nate on September 28, 2021, 03:00:20 PM
If PFC Harward gets a suspicious post card with a picture of a submarine on it, and a message that says, “Private Harward advises drill sergeant has no smoke!” It wasn’t me
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HC, You don't have a hair on your backside if you don't do it. :wink:
:popcorn:
I highly encourage this awesome character building exercises...... :beercheers:
Post by: Higher Caliber on September 28, 2021, 03:39:14 PM
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Post by: Nate on September 28, 2021, 05:37:29 PM
Post by: Bob Smith on September 28, 2021, 07:12:13 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on September 29, 2021, 10:10:04 PM
If PFC Harward gets a suspicious post card with a picture of a submarine on it, and a message that says, “Private Harward advises drill sergeant has no smoke!” It wasn’t meOh No!
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Poor kid has to do pushups just to get the huge letters I send him weekly!
Post by: Flyin6 on September 29, 2021, 10:13:04 PM
I’ve done it for many before!! I’m gonna need his address!PFC Nathan Harward
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Able Co. 1st Bn. 19th In.
8775 Albanese Dr. BLDG 3240
Ft. Benning, Ga. 31905
Post by: cj7ox on September 30, 2021, 09:38:41 AM
:popcorn:
Post by: Flyin6 on September 30, 2021, 11:41:28 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on October 19, 2021, 10:09:34 PM
Post by: oklawall on October 19, 2021, 10:23:57 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on October 30, 2021, 07:13:53 PM
Man this one came right out of left field
He has been assigned to the 3rd Infantry, Old Guard at Ft. Meyers, Virginia!
You know the soldiers who guard the tomb of the unknown soldier? Yup, that's them.
Now I doubt that he will be selected to walk that line, but that is his unit. They do ceremonies all over Washington DC, bury soldiers at Arlington, and protect Washington should the British decide to invade a third time
He is accepting of it, although he wanted to be a deployable infantryman.
Post by: Nate on October 30, 2021, 07:18:23 PM
Post by: stlaser on October 30, 2021, 10:53:26 PM
Post by: Farmer Jon on October 31, 2021, 08:34:01 AM
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Post by: BobbyB on October 31, 2021, 05:04:17 PM
He is accepting of it, although he wanted to be a deployable infantryman.
They do deploy on occasional basis. Most recently I believe they were in Africa training some country's military, if I remember correctly. If he wanted to be a Tomb Guard, nothing to stop him from putting his name forward and trying out for it.
Post by: Flyin6 on October 31, 2021, 05:13:56 PM
Correct. Two recent deployments to AfricaHe is accepting of it, although he wanted to be a deployable infantryman.
They do deploy on occasional basis. Most recently I believe they were in Africa training some country's military, if I remember correctly. If he wanted to be a Tomb Guard, nothing to stop him from putting his name forward and trying out for it.
Post by: stlaser on October 31, 2021, 07:06:57 PM
He is accepting of it, although he wanted to be a deployable infantryman.
They do deploy on occasional basis. Most recently I believe they were in Africa training some country's military, if I remember correctly. If he wanted to be a Tomb Guard, nothing to stop him from putting his name forward and trying out for it.
As long as he fits the measurements for the uniform. I recall it being very selective on size.
Post by: BobbyB on November 01, 2021, 07:27:42 PM
As long as he fits the measurements for the uniform. I recall it being very selective on size.
They are posted online somewhere.
Post by: cj7ox on November 03, 2021, 02:02:01 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 03, 2021, 08:46:47 PM
That's awesome, Don! Make sure he watches Gardens of Stone. ;-)When we get him home.
Thinking about it. We have family day one the 16th. Maybe after that, when he has to report back, we could meet up??? On the 17th its, graduate and go...hitting the road for the long drive home...
Post by: cj7ox on November 04, 2021, 10:12:25 AM
That's awesome, Don! Make sure he watches Gardens of Stone. ;-)When we get him home.
Thinking about it. We have family day one the 16th. Maybe after that, when he has to report back, we could meet up??? On the 17th its, graduate and go...hitting the road for the long drive home...
This month?
Post by: Flyin6 on November 04, 2021, 10:24:54 AM
December 16thThat's awesome, Don! Make sure he watches Gardens of Stone. ;-)When we get him home.
Thinking about it. We have family day one the 16th. Maybe after that, when he has to report back, we could meet up??? On the 17th its, graduate and go...hitting the road for the long drive home...
This month?
Post by: cj7ox on November 04, 2021, 10:43:50 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 04, 2021, 06:31:58 PM
Tracking. I have it on my calendar!Rog, I'll PM ya later, get your cell...
Post by: Flyin6 on November 12, 2021, 11:03:14 AM
Post by: Nate on November 12, 2021, 11:33:32 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 12, 2021, 11:45:11 AM
Kind of hard to not see him in the back...lol. looks to be the 3rd tallestThat's him!
Check your emails...
Post by: oklawall on November 12, 2021, 08:22:29 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 14, 2021, 05:13:50 PM
Good looking group of our warriors
Post by: BobbyB on November 15, 2021, 07:02:24 PM
Platoon Photo:
I was E 1-19
Post by: Flyin6 on November 16, 2021, 09:14:18 AM
Is the 1st of the 19th the only regiment training 11 series folks?Platoon Photo:
I was E 1-19
Post by: BobbyB on November 23, 2021, 09:13:02 AM
Is the 1st of the 19th the only regiment training 11 series folks?
I don't know. There used to be others but then they moved the Armor school there and stuff changed.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2021, 10:30:19 AM
I put his blue Chord on
Quite an honor
https://www.facebook.com/kathy.cliftharward/videos/483291413417041
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2021, 10:38:14 AM
My son graduated the Infantryman training at the National Infantry Museum. It is a remarkable place. I'd encourage a couple hour visit if you're in the area
But this little tidbit of information is new to me:
The parade field the young men form up on and march in review on is putting green quality and laser level from any point to any point. The actual dirt there was gathered from every major battlefield where US Army Infantrymen fought and died. There is soil from Normandy France, and sand from Omaha beach. There is soil from Corregidor, Philippines and from many islands that were once Japanese strongholds. Dirt from the Ardennes Forest where we fought the battle of the bulge and dirt from Germany where we first pressed into that country. There is sand from the deserts of North Africa and from Caserne, Italy. Every new Infantryman trained to enter our fighting Army Infantry walks on ground his brothers past fought for and died for.
Now that's history!
Here is a vid of that field and our son joining those hallowed ranks of honor:
https://www.facebook.com/kathy.cliftharward/videos/666178707718329
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2021, 11:17:45 AM
No longer going to 3rd Infantry, "Old Guard"
Now headed the the 3rd Infantry Division, Ft. Stewart, GA (Near Savannah)
And he was told they are about six months out from a deployment to Poland
Post by: Atkinsmatt on December 18, 2021, 01:15:31 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2021, 04:49:56 PM
When does he report? I am right there.3 Jan
I'll be seeing you semi often then! Which is great, I met Shawn at Benning. I was in Clothing Sales when this man comes up and said, "I think I know you, you Don Harward?" And yes it was him. So cool to meet that day. Another highlight in a day filled with them!
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2021, 06:03:40 PM
Post by: Nate on December 18, 2021, 07:32:51 PM
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 18, 2021, 09:37:21 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 19, 2021, 09:55:28 AM
Makes me proud as a dad, but also as an American to see there is still goodness and good men and women, and honor here
Post by: Atkinsmatt on December 19, 2021, 09:24:05 PM
Post by: cj7ox on December 20, 2021, 10:21:16 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 20, 2021, 06:17:50 PM
It was great meeting you and the family, Big D! I wish your son all the luck in the world moving forward. He will do great things! He may even end up in an ABCT when he gets to Stewart. ;-)Yea, he could. We'll know soon enough.
Did you see where Matt Atkins is there? Retired 1SGT!
Get to meet him too, and I have a bunch of Night Stalker buddies from 3rd bat retired there as well. We already are planning for the summer vaca to Savannah (If the knucklehead is there and not in Poland)
Post by: wyorunner on December 20, 2021, 09:42:07 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 20, 2021, 09:46:30 PM
Chief, first off, congratulations on raising sons who love our country enough to want to volunteer to serve. Many may think it’s not a big deal, and while it is just a choice, the military is quickly becoming unrecognizable to what all here have served in. Which makes that choice a HUGE deal. I for one am thankful to see good man continue to stand up for what we all here believe in. Thank you to you for instilling solid principles, and thank you to him for stepping up.I'll pass your thoughts on to him
Thanks
Post by: cj7ox on December 21, 2021, 10:11:59 AM
Post by: Nate on December 21, 2021, 11:27:09 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 03, 2022, 05:08:40 PM
With the day planned out...Wake up, go with everyone to get breakfast, then get the PFC a haircut (Like he really needed one), then come home, pack and over to the airport for a 1400ish dropoff with a planed 1600 departure
I got up earlier than everyone else, showered then settled into a good cup of joe all alone.
Knock at the door. One of his sisters show up for a visit. Note: We had a family dinner/get together the night before so that everyone could say their goodbyes...Read: Unexpected!
Now it's getting late like 0900ish and the pre-ranger is not up so we beat on the door. He comes out sick as a dog who is already sick!
We take his temp: 99+ but not 100. Sore throat dizzy, diahrea, puking...sick.
I have a thought: Will the airport even allow him to enter or the airline allow him to board the plane? Me thinking: Probably not.
Girlfriend then tells me Pre Ranger has passed out twice in five minutes while trying to stand up and pack.
Me thinking: I think we need to call the reception center at Ft Stewart, we don't but pre-ranger does.
All I hear is "yes, sergeant first class, like a dozen times, pre-Ranger hangs up.
Instructions from that Sergeant no-class: Well, if you can't fly, then you need to drive here. Only a Ft. Stewart COVID test will suffice.
So, me the warrant officer, again thinking: So we have a soldier who is sick and can't drive and just passed out, 2X. We need to verify if he has Covid, and the only testing place they accept is the troop medical clinic at Ft. Stewart! I quickly remember why it was that I got out of the Army, but that does not help this sick soldier.
So, we decide to drive him there. It's now 1045, it is a 10+45 drive with no stops, but mom rises to the occasion and we pack everything and get that soldier in uniform and into the car. I feed him a bunch of water and a Benadryl. and a little after 11 they pull out of the driveway.
So its now 1700 and mom called to tell me she is 40 min north of Columbia and 3+20 outside Ft Stewart, and...that kid...has not woken up yet. Still has a fever, and she won't stop for any reason.
Just got done reserving her a room there for the night
Nice, Army, really nice. Good plan too, Sergeant. I'd make sick soldiers drive too. Heck while we're at it, lets make them fly and operate armored vehicles as well. Thanks Army for taking care of my son!
Post by: Atkinsmatt on January 03, 2022, 06:45:03 PM
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 03, 2022, 07:15:46 PM
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Post by: oklawall on January 04, 2022, 04:16:06 AM
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Post by: Sammconn on January 04, 2022, 08:50:04 AM
Oh man that is the military at its best and another reason I retired when I did. Hope he gets feeling better soon and safe travels back for your wifeNo kidding.
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Always that “military intelligence” joke (or not).
Safe travels to HH6 and get well to PFC.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2022, 11:14:35 AM
OK, who is in charge?
Who's on first...??
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2022, 11:21:03 AM
So things have loosened up a bunch, but Kat says Nate is standing at attention for everyone and moving around like he was made out of stone.
My take: The fact that Kat is there and is talking to the Cadre of the in-processing center is going to soften Nate's landing. The fact that Nate is more like a Marine than a soldier will bode well for him and my guess is that the Sergeants in the in-processing center will make a call or two ahead of Nate to tell them he is a good kid.
We shall see, but I think, sick or not, he is making a good first impression. Kat said she will spend another night.
Post by: dave945 on January 04, 2022, 11:36:43 AM
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Post by: cj7ox on January 04, 2022, 12:47:56 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2022, 12:49:35 PM
Sounds like initial contact was with a pissed of Staff Duty NCO, who had probably been taking a bunch of calls from others reporting in "sick" to get a few more days. Might have gotten a little different result if he requested to speak to the SDO, but that request may have caused additional problems for him. Hope he feels better soon, and HH6 doesn't end up with the kung flu while driving back to the Kintuck. Let me know if there's anything I can do.We're good
Thanks
Post by: wyorunner on January 05, 2022, 08:30:08 PM
May Kat have a safe trip home, and the new soldier continue to be light in a dark tunnel that is today’s military. Hope he is feeling better.
Post by: cj7ox on January 11, 2022, 08:47:40 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 11, 2022, 09:01:44 AM
Any word on the pre-Ranger's unit of assignment? Has he recovered from his crud?Not very efficient, this new Armee
As of last night he still did not have word of the test results which has had him isolated along with all the other sick people from Ft. Stewart since last Monday, so he begins his 9th day of just sitting in a room waiting for someone to tell him something.
And that's the real thing here. No one is telling him anything. I don't have any sense that someone is looking after these troops. That's sergeant business, but some officer is supposed to be in charge.
I can't even begin to explain how different that is than my Army. We looked after our troops. I can't count the number of bacon sandwiches I ate because I always ate last and all the good stuff was already gone...But the troops saw and knew that about we officers and respected it. The NCO's did too and really, we were all alike, and we cared for our soldiers.
What I'm seeing playing out here:
Not my Army, not at all
Post by: cj7ox on January 11, 2022, 10:44:57 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 11, 2022, 05:54:56 PM
Yeah, I think this is especially a problem with the COVID Quarantine facilities. Management of those facilities is a rotating duty assignment, taking away from normal duties. And since these are "replacements" no-one really takes ownership. A real "not my Soldier, not my problem" mentality, which is a shame. I think it will be better when he actually gets to his unit. Either way, he should be out of quarantine soon, as the requirement is only 10 days from onset of symptoms.Rog
Post by: Flyin6 on January 19, 2022, 10:23:43 AM
Looks like Charlie Company, 3-69 Armor (Pronounced "Third of the sixty ninth")
Sean cleared it up for me. I guess Alpha and Bravo companied of third battalion are M1 Abrams tanks, and Charlie has Bradley Fighting Vehicles
New concept to me, but hey, it's our Armee!
Proud Army dad right here!
Post by: cj7ox on January 19, 2022, 02:38:00 PM
Post by: wyorunner on January 19, 2022, 06:34:16 PM
He has an assignmentThis is good to see! How’s his health?
Looks like Charlie Company, 3-69 Armor (Pronounced "Third of the sixty ninth")
Sean cleared it up for me. I guess Alpha and Bravo companied of third battalion are M1 Abrams tanks, and Charlie has Bradley Fighting Vehicles
New concept to me, but hey, it's our Armee!
Proud Army dad right here!
Post by: Nate on January 19, 2022, 08:50:00 PM
My soldier is the BN FSNCO of that BN.....HAHAHAHAHA
He will be looked after
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 19, 2022, 08:56:24 PM
So don, heres just how small the army is!Or punished if he doesn’t write home to mom on a regular basis
My soldier is the BN FSNCO of that BN.....HAHAHAHAHA
He will be looked after
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 19, 2022, 08:59:41 PM
He texts and talks every day!So don, heres just how small the army is!Or punished if he doesn’t write home to mom on a regular basis
My soldier is the BN FSNCO of that BN.....HAHAHAHAHA
He will be looked after
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 19, 2022, 09:00:10 PM
So don, heres just how small the army is!Small world indeed!
My soldier is the BN FSNCO of that BN.....HAHAHAHAHA
He will be looked after
Post by: Nate on January 19, 2022, 09:07:50 PM
I have been informed to pray that he does not end up under SFC Hobbs as he is a self absorbed prick who thinks he is gods gift to the infantry.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 19, 2022, 09:15:38 PM
So good news don, 3-69 is entering modernization and is not scheduled to go anywhere anytime soon.Charlie co. 3rd platoon...Only four platoons in C-Co, right? 25% chance, 1 in 4...
I have been informed to pray that he does not end up under SFC Hobbs as he is a self absorbed prick who thinks he is gods gift to the infantry.
So good news don, 3-69 is entering modernization and is not scheduled to go anywhere anytime soon.Korea in 23...
I have been informed to pray that he does not end up under SFC Hobbs as he is a self absorbed prick who thinks he is gods gift to the infantry.
Post by: Nate on January 19, 2022, 09:17:04 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 20, 2022, 09:39:54 AM
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Post by: cj7ox on January 20, 2022, 01:55:48 PM
So good news don, 3-69 is entering modernization and is not scheduled to go anywhere anytime soon.
I have been informed to pray that he does not end up under SFC Hobbs as he is a self absorbed prick who thinks he is gods gift to the infantry.
Yep, they'll be getting the latest and greatest variants of the Abrams and Bradley.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 20, 2022, 04:10:54 PM
For a tanker/cav/grunt guy!!!
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2022, 07:56:24 PM
Today, he is deployed near a combat zone
This sure got real PDQ!
Post by: Atkinsmatt on March 02, 2022, 09:20:04 PM
Post by: oklawall on March 03, 2022, 07:25:33 AM
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Post by: oklawall on March 21, 2022, 06:59:41 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2022, 10:25:29 PM
I know he and you can't say much but any word on your on his safety?He's safe
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Some are forward, some are not.
They have spent a lot of time on ranges tuning everything up. He became a M249 SAW gunner and also has a M240 assigned to him. So from errand-boy he moved up to being the squad machine gunner.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 22, 2022, 12:28:13 AM
1976! That’s old as Don!
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Post by: oklawall on March 22, 2022, 05:54:19 AM
I find it odd the gov hasn’t got anything newer then either of those two guns,Just for the record I'm an M14 old guy
1976! That’s old as Don!
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 22, 2022, 11:03:32 AM
I find it odd the gov hasn’t got anything newer then either of those two guns,Not nearly as old...unfortunately, says the man with the worldly voice. (While the Christian man says, "Yippee, closer to meeting Jesus...Finally!)
1976! That’s old as Don!
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The M240 is a great gun...Period!
I was in the Army when we first converted our armored vehicles from a M-219 or a M-73, 7.62 gun to the M240. All I can say is from my experience, that Belgium gun really works. Gone were the constant jams and feeding issues. I would fill the ammo can in a M-60 with 2,200 rounds, then just run the belt onto the floor for another 2,000 rounds. (Anymore, and the loader wouldn't have any room left to sling rounds into that hungry 105mm cannon.) I have fired the barrels off more than one of those guns.
As a helo pilot, my gunners used M240's for a couple of decades. I recall very few jams, except for one very memorable one when a Panamanian was shooting a .50 cal at us and Manny got off exactly one round to suppress him while we maneuvered away. That's the "Lucky-Dollar" story in the book.
Now in Baghdad, the gunners would go to the M249 for suppression if we were getting really engaged. A quick pull of that trigger and 100 rounds were flying everywhere. It's a pretty good gun.
You keep what works and Machine guns do not need to get automated or improved, they just need to work all the time.
Post by: cj7ox on March 24, 2022, 02:55:26 PM
I find it odd the gov hasn’t got anything newer then either of those two guns,
1976! That’s old as Don!
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The Ma Deuce is still in use, continuously since 1917. ;-)
Post by: Bob Smith on March 24, 2022, 04:19:21 PM
Post by: KensAuto on March 24, 2022, 08:43:15 PM
Keep and use the proven stuff and add the newer stuff. Right Ken?I will defer to the guys that have been there and done that when it comes to powpows!... but I assume you mean other things.
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 25, 2022, 07:42:49 AM
(Shots fired - literally)
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Post by: KensAuto on March 25, 2022, 09:43:06 AM
I think he means those outdated overpriced inaccurate unreliable hammers you love…What do you mean inaccurate!!
(Shots fired - literally)
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Post by: Bob Smith on March 25, 2022, 11:31:30 AM
I think he means those outdated overpriced inaccurate unreliable hammers you love…
(Shots fired - literally)
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Thanks Charles. Don't agree on your description however
Post by: cj7ox on March 25, 2022, 03:02:51 PM
I think he means those outdated overpriced inaccurate unreliable hammers you love…
(Shots fired - literally)
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John Moses Browning was a genius. The 1911 design proves that. Been around for over 100 years, and still the go-to combat pistol for a lot of trigger pullers on the pointy end of the spear. You Glock guys are just like cross-fitters. SMH
Post by: EL TATE on March 25, 2022, 04:18:03 PM
I think he means those outdated overpriced inaccurate unreliable hammers you love…
(Shots fired - literally)
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John Moses Browning was a genius. The 1911 design proves that. Been around for over 100 years, and still the go-to combat pistol for a lot of trigger pullers on the pointy end of the spear. You Glock guys are just like cross-fitters. SMH
plus they're just bada$$. "here come the good guys"
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 25, 2022, 05:11:21 PM
accurate or reliable, choose one when choosing a 1911….
sloppy was reliable, and tight was accurate. Of course Ive never thrown a $3500 custom 1911 in the mud and stomped on it to verify….
But i have done that with glocks….
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Post by: Nate on March 25, 2022, 08:13:20 PM
I think he means those outdated overpriced inaccurate unreliable hammers you love…
(Shots fired - literally)
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John Moses Browning was a genius. The 1911 design proves that. Been around for over 100 years, and still the go-to combat pistol for a lot of trigger pullers on the pointy end of the spear. You Glock guys are just like cross-fitters. SMH
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Post by: KensAuto on March 25, 2022, 09:02:03 PM
Post by: cj7ox on March 28, 2022, 02:40:48 PM
Lol i knew that would stir the pot….
accurate or reliable, choose one when choosing a 1911….
sloppy was reliable, and tight was accurate. Of course Ive never thrown a $3500 custom 1911 in the mud and stomped on it to verify….
But i have done that with glocks….
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I've got a couple that are "sloppy", that are plenty accurate (I used to be able to have 5 hole touching at 20yd). Funny thing is, that performance could never be repeated from a bench rest. Then again, you won't be using a bench rest in a "shoot the bad guy before he shoots me" situation. Never had a reliability issue with them either. ;-)
I've also owned Glocks, I like them. Good pistol. I just prefer my 1911.
Post by: EL TATE on March 28, 2022, 04:56:17 PM
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 28, 2022, 06:44:22 PM
It’s so much fun. In the end its what you practice with.
But I will say I’ve never been beat in a pistol match by a 1911…..
Here we go….again
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Post by: KensAuto on March 28, 2022, 06:51:26 PM
God, how I love to stir this pot. :evilNope, not going to do it... nope, just no
It’s so much fun. In the end its what you practice with.
But I will say I’ve never been beat in a pistol match by a 1911…..
Here we go….again
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Post by: cj7ox on March 29, 2022, 12:05:33 PM
God, how I love to stir this pot. :evil
It’s so much fun. In the end its what you practice with.
But I will say I’ve never been beat in a pistol match by a 1911…..
Here we go….again
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That just tells me the caliber of competitors you've been facing. ;-)
Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 29, 2022, 04:20:34 PM
(https://media1.giphy.com/media/ZQsizWJ3SOUzImzPkE/giphy.gif)God, how I love to stir this pot. :evil
It’s so much fun. In the end its what you practice with.
But I will say I’ve never been beat in a pistol match by a 1911…..
Here we go….again
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That just tells me the caliber of competitors you've been facing. ;-)
Shots fired ol son!!
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Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 29, 2022, 07:03:42 PM
Well played, sir, well played.God, how I love to stir this pot. :evil
It’s so much fun. In the end its what you practice with.
But I will say I’ve never been beat in a pistol match by a 1911…..
Here we go….again
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That just tells me the caliber of competitors you've been facing. ;-)
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Post by: oklawall on March 29, 2022, 08:13:37 PM
Post by: dave945 on March 29, 2022, 08:48:29 PM
It wasn’t just one or the other.
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Post by: stlaser on March 29, 2022, 08:59:23 PM
God, how I love to stir this pot. :evil
It’s so much fun. In the end its what you practice with.
But I will say I’ve never been beat in a pistol match by a 1911…..
Here we go….again
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Unless he was trying to hit you in the head with that hammer…..
Regardless, I’m pretty sure Ken gets beat daily by H!
Post by: wilsonphil on March 29, 2022, 09:21:02 PM
God, how I love to stir this pot. :evil
It’s so much fun. In the end its what you practice with.
But I will say I’ve never been beat in a pistol match by a 1911…..
Here we go….again
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Now TNR when your competing in the cowboy action league in the Eastwood age division im sure your doing very well.
AND in Kens defense when your used to shooting at "H" sized targets its hard to miss, so I'm sure he thinks that 1911 is the best thing ever.
Don I apologize for everyone for totally DOT this great thread.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 29, 2022, 11:34:23 PM
just to try and get this back about a young man. What is the current issued side arm of the Army?Currently transitioning to the Sig P320
Post by: Flyin6 on March 29, 2022, 11:37:12 PM
I’m the Air Force we were issued both left and right side arms. Just another reason we’re better.Anybody else want this guy silenced?
It wasn’t just one or the other.
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I can do it pdq...
;-)
And all of U'2: Quit messin' up my thread!
Post by: EL TATE on March 30, 2022, 11:20:06 AM
just to try and get this back about a young man. What is the current issued side arm of the Army?Currently transitioning to the Sig P320
Gotta say i'm a big fan of these. curious to hear what your boy thinks in more than range situations. Hopefully he doesn't have to find out for a long time...
Post by: Nate on March 30, 2022, 05:08:38 PM
Gotta say i'm a big fan of these. curious to hear what your boy thinks in more than range situations. Hopefully he doesn't have to find out for a long time...just to try and get this back about a young man. What is the current issued side arm of the Army?Currently transitioning to the Sig P320
his rank and duty position does not qualify him to carry a pistol.
the sig P320 is the civilian version of the M17 pistol
Post by: Flyin6 on March 30, 2022, 06:15:39 PM
I want to agree with Nate. I always see him with either a M4 or a M249 SAW, no pistolGotta say i'm a big fan of these. curious to hear what your boy thinks in more than range situations. Hopefully he doesn't have to find out for a long time...just to try and get this back about a young man. What is the current issued side arm of the Army?Currently transitioning to the Sig P320
his rank and duty position does not qualify him to carry a pistol.
the sig P320 is the civilian version of the M17 pistol
Post by: cj7ox on March 31, 2022, 10:52:24 AM
Post by: Atkinsmatt on April 04, 2022, 03:42:46 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_W8gyUAe-aI
Post by: Flyin6 on May 28, 2022, 11:05:59 AM
He and his unit landed in a foreign country where he all of them had to draw equipment. Everything from personal items up to and including Abrams tanks. That poor kid has been in the field or on a range almost constantly since leaving. He has only had a handful of actual days off and with that time hasn't been able to get off post where they are except for one day.
One day away from the Army in all this time! Think about it, Think about just how much these soldiers give up. Well, I'd say nearly their entire lives. The Army is gracious enough to give them some sleep, but I suppose that is necessary.
It's been a long time since I was a junior enlisted guy and I suppose you tend to forget the hard stuff, but I am reliving it again through him.
I got two messages on my phone in the past week. The first was "We're going to the field for 30 days." That's it, nothing more. I texted and called but, nothing. Then yesterday I get another message, "We're here."
I gotta say, this being a parent of a deployed soldier really sucks. That poor boy of mine has worked his a$$ off since joining. He has been in the field or on a range more days in the past year than he has been in a barracks. He sleeps in a bedroll on the ground. If it's raining, he is wet. If it is snowing and raining, he is cold and wet, for days at a time. He is as skinny as a freaking rail.
I guess I must have forgotten just how tough it was, but man, could we give the kid a freakin' break already!
Post by: TexasRedNeck on May 28, 2022, 11:20:10 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on May 28, 2022, 09:58:56 PM
Meanwhile his peer group back in the states… What?! No freaking Starbucks! What will I do without my latte? And the Internet here sucks! I haven’t been able to see my girlfriend/boyfriend/other in three whole days!Yea, there's that too
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Biggest and most consequential word of all: Choices
Post by: BobbyB on May 29, 2022, 07:58:38 AM
He has been in the field or on a range more days in the past year than he has been in a barracks. He sleeps in a bedroll on the ground. If it's raining, he is wet. If it is snowing and raining, he is cold and wet, for days at a time. He is as skinny as a freaking rail.
I guess I must have forgotten just how tough it was, but man, could we give the kid a freakin' break already!
He's living the life of the infantryman. You adapt to it or let it beat you up. He'll be fine.
Post by: Flyin6 on May 29, 2022, 08:36:45 AM
I understand. And I was a Tanker. Not as tough, we had a tank to "Sleep" in but the maintenance of that thing...He has been in the field or on a range more days in the past year than he has been in a barracks. He sleeps in a bedroll on the ground. If it's raining, he is wet. If it is snowing and raining, he is cold and wet, for days at a time. He is as skinny as a freaking rail.
I guess I must have forgotten just how tough it was, but man, could we give the kid a freakin' break already!
He's living the life of the infantryman. You adapt to it or let it beat you up. He'll be fine.
And I ran with the Rangers, Seals, green berets and others for many years, so I have seen all that.
But
During no time in my experience was I ever the dad, watching my son go through all that
and
I trust the NCO's out there, so I know in the end he will be fine.
Post by: BobbyB on May 29, 2022, 09:08:04 AM
I understand. And I was a Tanker. Not as tough, we had a tank to "Sleep" in but the maintenance of that thing...
And I ran with the Rangers, Seals, green berets and others for many years, so I have seen all that.
But
During no time in my experience was I ever the dad, watching my son go through all that
and
I trust the NCO's out there, so I know in the end he will be fine.
I didn't mean what I said to sound as if it was minimizing the Father caring for his son aspect. I have learned that a lot of what I say gets misconstrued by people at work, generally due to how I speak. I meant it as he'll be fine going through all this fun stuff.
Post by: Flyin6 on May 29, 2022, 09:45:58 AM
Couple things:I understand. And I was a Tanker. Not as tough, we had a tank to "Sleep" in but the maintenance of that thing...
And I ran with the Rangers, Seals, green berets and others for many years, so I have seen all that.
But
During no time in my experience was I ever the dad, watching my son go through all that
and
I trust the NCO's out there, so I know in the end he will be fine.
I didn't mean what I said to sound as if it was minimizing the Father caring for his son aspect. I have learned that a lot of what I say gets misconstrued by people at work, generally due to how I speak. I meant it as he'll be fine going through all this fun stuff.
1. I Didn't take it that way
2. I talk the same way. True soldiers all do
3. I know you and I know your "kind"...same as the special ops dirt grinders I served with
so, I get what you're saying
oh, and I didn't take it that way ;-)
Post by: oklawall on May 29, 2022, 03:05:36 PM
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Post by: cj7ox on June 13, 2022, 09:55:35 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on June 13, 2022, 10:14:27 AM
Any update on your young crunchy...I mean infantryman? Has he found a Polish bride yet?Poor kid has been in the field, training, for 2 weeks. Has another 2.5 weeks to go before he finishes.
That's all they do is training followed by training, then more training with a forecast of additional training. Easy to see how they are so eager to kill something once we cut them loose!
Post by: cj7ox on June 13, 2022, 12:47:51 PM
Any update on your young crunchy...I mean infantryman? Has he found a Polish bride yet?Poor kid has been in the field, training, for 2 weeks. Has another 2.5 weeks to go before he finishes.
That's all they do is training followed by training, then more training with a forecast of additional training. Easy to see how they are so eager to kill something once we cut them loose!
That's good! Makes him proficient. ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on June 17, 2022, 07:00:10 PM
Got a call. He's finally back in from that big training op, followed by something they did. They did some good team training with Italians, Bosnians, and two other countries' soldiers. The US SF, 10th group acted as aggressors and unfortunately made quick work of my boy twice. He spent a good amount of time as a "Casualty," but that, was, at least, dry.
Lessons were learned and new acquaintances were made
Something he said which rubbed me wrong: He mentioned they may be getting "Deployment patches out of this. First off, they're not called deployment patches, they're called "Combat patches." Second, if there weren't bullets and bombs being tossed about, then combat did not take place.
I kind of withheld my opinion, but that's as wrong as two guys marrying! Wait, no...
He said he disagreed and said he wouldn't wear it. I don't know what to tell him to do right there. I see it the same as giving everyone at a sporting event a trophy. That was wrong but look at where its come to. I know guys who had it really hard, actually in combat. To give men who were a couple of hundred miles away from the fighting combat patches is pretty unfair to those of us who really were in combat. JMO
Post by: EL TATE on July 19, 2022, 02:33:45 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on July 19, 2022, 03:59:17 PM
"combat patches/trophies" "deployment patches/participation awards". less and less like your army huh chief.The differences are becoming striking!
Post by: Atkinsmatt on July 19, 2022, 04:11:51 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on July 19, 2022, 04:38:16 PM
Wait til you see females with their hair down in uniform. guys with facial hair. I know I had to learn the definition of uniform. I also wonder who the rocket scientist is that approved the new pt gear to be all black and then require everyone to wear a reflective belt. Among a couple of quick observations.I see it in the lack of discipline and the fighting spirit is gone. These people move more like conditioned robots who are afraid of their shadow.
Nate tells me guys get turned in all the time for harassment.
WHAT???
That's all soldiers ever do to each other
Builds character!
Post by: oklawall on July 19, 2022, 07:30:40 PM
Even as a civilian I have to spend way to many hours away from doing my normal job to learn about diversity and inclusionWait til you see females with their hair down in uniform. guys with facial hair. I know I had to learn the definition of uniform. I also wonder who the rocket scientist is that approved the new pt gear to be all black and then require everyone to wear a reflective belt. Among a couple of quick observations.I see it in the lack of discipline and the fighting spirit is gone. These people move more like conditioned robots who are afraid of their shadow.
Nate tells me guys get turned in all the time for harassment.
WHAT???
That's all soldiers ever do to each other
Builds character!
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Post by: Flyin6 on August 04, 2022, 10:55:29 AM
The march began at 0400 this morning in Germany. Nate was amongst those in the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division who made it.
The Norwegian military sponsors it and is both present and certifies a soldier's participation.
What's cool about this is that the Norwegians were Vikings, and Nate has a fascination with the Vikings of old.
Congrats son!
The Norwegian ruck march is a Norwegian armed forces skill badge which is earned when participants complete an 18.6 miles (30km) ruck carrying 25 pounds in their rucksacks. Participants receive a foreign military “Marsjmerket” badge upon completion. The general rule is that Men must complete the Norwegian ruck march in 4 hours and 30 minutes
Post by: oklawall on August 04, 2022, 12:06:05 PM
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Post by: TexasRedNeck on August 04, 2022, 02:18:54 PM
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Post by: Sammconn on August 04, 2022, 02:45:31 PM
Me and mama at 23.8 on the day.
That was enough…
Post by: Atkinsmatt on August 04, 2022, 09:42:05 PM
Post by: wyorunner on August 11, 2022, 03:51:21 AM
He just participated in and won the "Norwegian Ruck March Award"Congrats to him! They are holding this event on MCBH in December. I’m gonna try to get in, very limited spots here.
The march began at 0400 this morning in Germany. Nate was amongst those in the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division who made it.
The Norwegian military sponsors it and is both present and certifies a soldier's participation.
What's cool about this is that the Norwegians were Vikings, and Nate has a fascination with the Vikings of old.
Congrats son!
The Norwegian ruck march is a Norwegian armed forces skill badge which is earned when participants complete an 18.6 miles (30km) ruck carrying 25 pounds in their rucksacks. Participants receive a foreign military “Marsjmerket” badge upon completion. The general rule is that Men must complete the Norwegian ruck march in 4 hours and 30 minutes
Post by: Flyin6 on August 11, 2022, 08:43:06 AM
A-"T" sighting!He just participated in and won the "Norwegian Ruck March Award"Congrats to him! They are holding this event on MCBH in December. I’m gonna try to get in, very limited spots here.
The march began at 0400 this morning in Germany. Nate was amongst those in the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division who made it.
The Norwegian military sponsors it and is both present and certifies a soldier's participation.
What's cool about this is that the Norwegians were Vikings, and Nate has a fascination with the Vikings of old.
Congrats son!
The Norwegian ruck march is a Norwegian armed forces skill badge which is earned when participants complete an 18.6 miles (30km) ruck carrying 25 pounds in their rucksacks. Participants receive a foreign military “Marsjmerket” badge upon completion. The general rule is that Men must complete the Norwegian ruck march in 4 hours and 30 minutes
Post by: EL TATE on August 11, 2022, 10:38:16 AM
A-"T" sighting!He just participated in and won the "Norwegian Ruck March Award"Congrats to him! They are holding this event on MCBH in December. I’m gonna try to get in, very limited spots here.
The march began at 0400 this morning in Germany. Nate was amongst those in the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division who made it.
The Norwegian military sponsors it and is both present and certifies a soldier's participation.
What's cool about this is that the Norwegians were Vikings, and Nate has a fascination with the Vikings of old.
Congrats son!
The Norwegian ruck march is a Norwegian armed forces skill badge which is earned when participants complete an 18.6 miles (30km) ruck carrying 25 pounds in their rucksacks. Participants receive a foreign military “Marsjmerket” badge upon completion. The general rule is that Men must complete the Norwegian ruck march in 4 hours and 30 minutes
His spidey senses went off when someone posted about running, lol
Post by: wyorunner on August 11, 2022, 02:26:38 PM
Lol, no I lurk a lot more. Been busy trying to expand a print and embroidery businessA-"T" sighting!He just participated in and won the "Norwegian Ruck March Award"Congrats to him! They are holding this event on MCBH in December. I’m gonna try to get in, very limited spots here.
The march began at 0400 this morning in Germany. Nate was amongst those in the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division who made it.
The Norwegian military sponsors it and is both present and certifies a soldier's participation.
What's cool about this is that the Norwegians were Vikings, and Nate has a fascination with the Vikings of old.
Congrats son!
The Norwegian ruck march is a Norwegian armed forces skill badge which is earned when participants complete an 18.6 miles (30km) ruck carrying 25 pounds in their rucksacks. Participants receive a foreign military “Marsjmerket” badge upon completion. The general rule is that Men must complete the Norwegian ruck march in 4 hours and 30 minutes
His spidey senses went off when someone posted about running, lol
But yea I really do love running/rucking/walking events.
Post by: Flyin6 on August 11, 2022, 07:58:57 PM
Post by: Atkinsmatt on August 25, 2022, 12:07:40 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on August 25, 2022, 12:10:08 PM
A second group got home this week. Has Nate made it back yet?Saturday
Post by: cj7ox on August 25, 2022, 02:06:11 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on August 25, 2022, 04:02:41 PM
The Norwegian Foot March is no joke. I've done it twice. First time I missed the qual time by 5 minutes. I did it cold, with no prep. LOL! The second one, I trained a bit!I never did it...But then again, I never heard about it
Funny thing about going into Special ops as a pilot. In the interview, they ask you if you are willing to go to jump school, Air assault school and volunteer for the Ranger course. Well, I thought about it and decided if those guys all do that, then why not.
So then I get there. They tell me I need to volunteer for Air Assault, so I did. I left Monday the very next week. I finished as the distinguished honor graduate and #3 on the (then) ten-mile run/ruck march (I ran it)
Next, they sent me to level two SERE. Only two schools, the Seals school in Maine, and the Special Forces one at Camp Mackall. Went there and finished that.
Then I turned in my 4187 for jump school, but they said I'd be months in training in their varied fleet of modified Chinooks. I didn't forget, and the very day they finished training me, I dropped the app for jump school. It was denied. Their answer was something like "We are really short on pilots." So I seasoned it for a year while working out daily with the SF/Seals/ and our Airborne guys. A Seal team 6 guy tried to work a back door slot for me through the Navy because I told him if I got it, I would consider an offer to branch transfer over to their side and give BUDS a try. They have a pretty cool deal with team guys who are actual pilots who fly all sorts of things for them.
The Army was furious with me so I called them out. I dropped two more 4187's. One for RIP (Ranger Indoctrination Program and another for the SF qual course, which unknown to the Night Stalkers I had already partially done.
The Colonel pulled me in and asked me if I 1. Had a death wish, or 2. Wanted to be Rambo, or 3. Hated the Army.
It pi$$ed me off because I knew I was as good as any of those guys and I only wanted my chance to prove it. But the NightStalkers can be pretty convincing and before you knew it I was earning my second combat patch and doing some out-of-whack stuff.
Things like that ruck march would have been things I would have loved to do but was not allowed to do. First, we are short of pilots. Later on, we can't afford to lose guys with your experience.
Tough to "Be all you can be" IMHO
Post by: wyorunner on August 26, 2022, 01:44:58 AM
Hoping boss lady and I can manage to get into Decembers March!!!! We’ll see how the qualifier goes next month.The Norwegian Foot March is no joke. I've done it twice. First time I missed the qual time by 5 minutes. I did it cold, with no prep. LOL! The second one, I trained a bit!I never did it...But then again, I never heard about it
Funny thing about going into Special ops as a pilot. In the interview, they ask you if you are willing to go to jump school, Air assault school and volunteer for the Ranger course. Well, I thought about it and decided if those guys all do that, then why not.
So then I get there. They tell me I need to volunteer for Air Assault, so I did. I left Monday the very next week. I finished as the distinguished honor graduate and #3 on the (then) ten-mile run/ruck march (I ran it)
Next, they sent me to level two SERE. Only two schools, the Seals school in Maine, and the Special Forces one at Camp Mackall. Went there and finished that.
Then I turned in my 4187 for jump school, but they said I'd be months in training in their varied fleet of modified Chinooks. I didn't forget, and the very day they finished training me, I dropped the app for jump school. It was denied. Their answer was something like "We are really short on pilots." So I seasoned it for a year while working out daily with the SF/Seals/ and our Airborne guys. A Seal team 6 guy tried to work a back door slot for me through the Navy because I told him if I got it, I would consider an offer to branch transfer over to their side and give BUDS a try. They have a pretty cool deal with team guys who are actual pilots who fly all sorts of things for them.
The Army was furious with me so I called them out. I dropped two more 4187's. One for RIP (Ranger Indoctrination Program and another for the SF qual course, which unknown to the Night Stalkers I had already partially done.
The Colonel pulled me in and asked me if I 1. Had a death wish, or 2. Wanted to be Rambo, or 3. Hated the Army.
It pi$$ed me off because I knew I was as good as any of those guys and I only wanted my chance to prove it. But the NightStalkers can be pretty convincing and before you knew it I was earning my second combat patch and doing some out-of-whack stuff.
Things like that ruck march would have been things I would have loved to do but was not allowed to do. First, we are short of pilots. Later on, we can't afford to lose guys with your experience.
Tough to "Be all you can be" IMHO
Post by: cj7ox on August 26, 2022, 10:57:30 AM
So, I figured the Norwegian with only a 25lb pack would be a breeze. That pace is pretty freaking killer! You've pretty much got to average a 12 min mile pace. LOL!
Tried to go to airborne, was told no need for tankers to jump out of planes. Really wanted to go to pathfinder, but by the time I had time, I was past the maximum grade. LOL. Never really had the desire for ranger school. Thought hard about, and got actively recruited for SF. But, I realized I was already too broke down physically for selection.
Post by: Nate on August 26, 2022, 12:28:29 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on August 26, 2022, 12:47:22 PM
I have only done 2 ..... :popcorn:Nijmegen??
Post by: Nate on August 26, 2022, 06:18:22 PM
I have only done 2 ..... :popcorn:Nijmegen??
Yes sir
Post by: Flyin6 on August 26, 2022, 06:36:24 PM
CongratsI have only done 2 ..... :popcorn:Nijmegen??
Yes sir
Honorable...Tough
Post by: Nate on August 26, 2022, 09:52:42 PM
CongratsI have only done 2 ..... :popcorn:Nijmegen??
Yes sir
Honorable...Tough
That was back in my prime.....lol
German sausage and their liquid bread was my main diet back then.
Post by: Flyin6 on September 19, 2022, 04:45:48 PM
Post by: oklawall on September 20, 2022, 11:30:01 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on September 20, 2022, 11:33:09 AM
Him: "Tracking."
He has transitioned. No longer the high schooler we sent off to Ft. Benning, he is now an infantryman.
Post by: Atkinsmatt on September 21, 2022, 07:26:56 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on September 21, 2022, 09:46:09 AM
This isn't about me, I just did what any good soldier would have done, and I bet that great guys like Matt and Nate, and Bobby and others here did a ton more. I am seeing a disturbing trend of not looking after our most valuable asset, our individual soldier. Example: So that deployment my boy and thousands like him just sent on in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine was clearly that, a deployment. A deployment with prospects of engaging in combat with Russians. We sent a contingent to NATO to fulfill our treaty obligations.
But now and after the fact, and in the last month of the 6-month deployment for the first batch of warriors, the Army has decided to call it a "Training exercise." BULL SHEET! It was deployed in response to armed intervention by an adversary plain and simple.
The soldier is there regardless of the label one places on it but guess what. If the soldier is deployed, he gets a little extra money to help with the expenses. Money to buy food because we do not do a great job of always feeding our troops. We give them money so that when they are marching through some ville, they can buy a snickers bar because they missed breakfast because they were deployed on some listening post and their ruck was already too heavy with extra ammo. Ya, they took money away from our soldiers, and I think that sucks!. They took away the opportunity for the guys to get some deployment ribbon. They took away opportunities for the kids to go to schools, get promotions, and a ton of other things.
That kid of mine was promised a hefty enlistment bonus, but here we sit nearly a year and a half and a real-world deployment later and the Army has not paid him one red cent of that bonus. He was going to pay off his truck to save on interest payments, but he never got the check. My son does not want me to do anything about it, but my intentions were to find out who the Colonel and sergeant major were who has failed to fix this and hand their names along with a nicely documented letter over to my congressman to allow him to play around with their careers a bit.
Not taking care of our soldiers is simply the worse thing we can do as an Army that is led by a government intent on transitioning gays into men or women or birds or whatever and helping millions get into our welfare and social security system but at the same time allowing our warriors to help pay for it.
Post by: Atkinsmatt on September 21, 2022, 11:11:39 AM
At Ft Stewart there is a big outcry currently about mold in the barracks showing up on social media. Now they are publicly saying they don't know why leaders aren't checking soldiers rooms. They fail to say that they have for years told them not to. Allow the soldiers some privacy. Things sure have changed.
Post by: Flyin6 on September 21, 2022, 11:55:38 AM
I agree. As I am at work on military installations, Ft Bragg right now, I see things that make me, shall we say sad, as I try not to talk that way. Why is it so vitally important for females to wear ear rings in a combat uniform? Have their hair down? All of the mandatory sensitivity classes that detract from training? Merely to further an agenda as the military is one of 2 places where the government can forcibly impose their will. The other being prison.When I toured the 1st brigade barracks, into some rooms, I was surprised at how dirty and messy things were. Dirt in the hallways and a general mess. That simply NEVER happened in my day. We used to have NCO's that took care of that stuff. I mean why not, they have a bunch of workers at their beck and call. See a mess, and just get it cleaned up or organize an all-nighter cleaning party. Next time you inspect, things were miraculously in order...amazing!
At Ft Stewart there is a big outcry currently about mold in the barracks showing up on social media. Now they are publicly saying they don't know why leaders aren't checking soldiers rooms. They fail to say that they have for years told them not to. Allow the soldiers some privacy. Things sure have changed.
But it's worse than you think. A soldier deployed over there said that most of the machine guns that were issued from the European stockpile didn't work. He finally got his working after parts replacement and a lot of range time and cleaning. The Abrams were a patchwork of parts with lots of stuff like side plates gone. The Bradleys were breaking down constantly, and the emphasis seemed to be on those soldiers caught DUI on SCOOTERS!
Have we seriously that farked up that a commanding general restricts our troops to the compound because of a half dozen moped incidents? I think we are broken as a military. I think our good up-and-coming critical thinking and combat-focused leaders were washed out during the Obama administration and we now have a slew of yes-men just trying to get by.
I could be wrong, and I hope I am.
Post by: wyorunner on September 21, 2022, 03:04:45 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on September 21, 2022, 05:07:16 PM
It’s worse than you probably realize or think. There are some very solid leaders still, but the majority of them just walk the line so as not to get fired. CSMs, 1SGs, and company commanders have become close to expendable at the whim of an upset soldier who files some bs report. It’s a sad state of affairs, but it appears to me it was and is all by design.I would tend to agree, that it's all by design
We are being weakened in all ways. Masculinity becomes something toxic. We introduce sensitivities into the warrior ethos. We dilute and sanitize everything. I can only hope our enemies are in a similar state or someone, someday is going to hand us our a$$.
Post by: Nate on September 22, 2022, 03:16:21 PM
1. Make sure you understand that no disrespect or shade is being sent in Nate's direction
2. Some folks need to "go take a knee and drink water"
I am singularly not impressed with our more senior Army leadership. I keep hearing things that run counter to how we used to operate. Sure, we always trained hard and sacrificed, but what I am hearing is senior leaders not taking care of our soldiers. Particularly the lower enlisted. I know something about that because it seemed like every day, I had to do something to help some "Kid" out of a jam. Whether it was changing an assignment, helping with a DUI, marital problem, an issue with the law, or something, I could leverage my rank, and because I knew people and get a million little things done without anyone ever knowing.
As evidenced by …? what acts or actions have YOU physically witnessed to say that the military leadership is not taking care of soldiers? Or is this based off third- or fourth-hand opinionated gossip?
This isn't about me, I just did what any good soldier would have done, and I bet that great guys like Matt and Nate, and Bobby and others here did a ton more. I am seeing a disturbing trend of not looking after our most valuable asset, our individual soldier. Example: So that deployment my boy and thousands like him just sent on in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine was clearly that, a deployment. A deployment with prospects of engaging in combat with Russians. We sent a contingent to NATO to fulfill our treaty obligations.
But now and after the fact, and in the last month of the 6-month deployment for the first batch of warriors, the Army has decided to call it a "Training exercise." BULL SHEET! It was deployed in response to armed intervention by an adversary plain and simple.
That was not a combat deployment! It was a training exercise, just like what re-forger was back in your day.
The soldier is there regardless of the label one places on it but guess what. If the soldier is deployed, he gets a little extra money to help with the expenses. Money to buy food because we do not do a great job of always feeding our troops. We give them money so that when they are marching through some village, they can buy a snickers bar because they missed breakfast because they were deployed on some listening post and their ruck was already too heavy with extra ammo. Yeah, they took money away from our soldiers, and I think that sucks! They took away the opportunity for the guys to get some deployment ribbon. They took away opportunities for the kids to go to schools, get promotions, and a ton of other things.
What money did they take from soldiers? If married soldier’s had their BAS (basic allowance for subsistence) taken from them and want to complain about it, then they should read AR 37-104-4 chapter 11 and AR 600-38 chapter 4. How did they take away the opportunity of a deployment ribbon, when there is no such thing as a deployment ribbon! There is such a thing as a campaign ribbon, but again they were never deployed, and they never had combat orders. What opportunities were taken away from them regarding furthering education? They had access to correspondence courses, they had access to the education center, and they sure as heck had access to computers which would enable them to take online classes. What opportunities were taken away from a soldier getting promoted?
That kid of mine was promised a hefty enlistment bonus, but here we sit nearly a year and a half and a real-world deployment later and the Army has not paid him one red cent of that bonus. He was going to pay off his truck to save on interest payments, but he never got the check.
Has Nate gone directly to finance (which he has that right) and spoke with them directly as to why he has not gotten his bonus yet? Has Nate spoken directly with anybody in his chain of command with the rank of E-7 to E-9 or O-3 to O-5 about this, or has it been his team/squad leader? Have you read his enlistment contract?
My son does not want me to do anything about it, but my intentions were to find out who the Colonel and sergeant major were who has failed to fix this and hand their names along with a nicely documented letter over to my congressman to allow him to play around with their careers a bit.
I would tell you to stay out of it unless he SPECIFICALLY asked you to do something about it. If you get involved based off of your assumption of what he is venting about, you will negatively mark your son for the rest of his career in the military and he will stop telling you things for fear of how your actions are going to effect him down the line! I specifically gave you the name and phone number to a senior NCO in that unit and has said he will look out for Nate. Nate should know exactly who I am speaking about!
Not taking care of our soldiers is simply the worse thing we can do as an Army that is led by a government intent on transitioning gays into men or women or birds or whatever and helping millions get into our welfare and social security system but at the same time allowing our warriors to help pay for it.
I see things that make me, shall we say sad, as I try not to talk that way. Why is it so vitally important for females to wear earrings in a combat uniform? Have their hair down? All the mandatory sensitivity classes that detract from training?
Oh lookie here…. Two perfect examples of the bigotry that has started to become common place here! This is the straw that broke the camels back for me!!!! What does somebody’s sexual orientation have to do with anything?! NOT A DAMN THING!!! Can they do the job that they said they would do?! Does somebody’s sexual orientation stop them from standing in front of a bullet?! Do the bigot’s on this site really believe that this is the 1950’s and that they will get infected with the gayness virus by touching, seeing, being near a gay person?! If you are bothered by somebody’s personal choice while they are still accomplishing their mission and feel the need to force your will or opinions onto them in some way, shape, fashion, or form, because it doesn’t fit YOUR opinion … then you are the virus that is still infecting this country!
The same thing goes with how a soldier presents themselves. Just because somebody has a haircut that you don’t like … does it make it wrong?! Because somebody has fingernails that are longer or colored in a way that you don’t agree with … does it make it wrong?! Shall I keep going?! Just like I stated in the last paragraph. If you are bothered by somebody’s personal choice while still accomplishing their mission and feel the need to force your will or opinions onto them in some way, shape, fashion, or form, because it doesn’t fit YOUR opinion … then you are the virus that is still infecting this country!
At Ft Stewart there is a big outcry currently about mold in the barracks showing up on social media. Now they are publicly saying they don't know why leaders aren't checking soldiers’ rooms. They fail to say that they have for years told them not to. Allow the soldiers some privacy. Things sure have changed.
When I toured the 1st brigade barracks, into some rooms, I was surprised at how dirty and messy things were. Dirt in the hallways and a general mess. That simply NEVER happened in my day. We used to have NCO's that took care of that stuff. I mean why not; they have a bunch of workers at their beck and call. See a mess, and just get it cleaned up or organize an all-nighter cleaning party. Next time you inspect, things were miraculously in order...amazing!
Please tell me how doing room inspections as anything to do with the quality of the lowest bidder’s construction of the building causing structural and hazardous conditions?! Stop abusing the bullcrap phrase leaders checking soldiers’ rooms! You want to get rid of mold and flooding and ac/heat problems and let’s not forget about the plumbing problems with the barracks at bragg … stop paying the lowest bidder millions of dollars and accepting the steaming piles of doo doo that they give to us. Its toxic phrases like this that cause people to leave the military!
Why does somebody who lives in the barracks have to have their privacy rights violated with inspections, but people who live else where have their privacy rights respected? In reality, those “leaders” that are checking soldiers’ rooms are the ones who live in self-induced cesspools and have absolutely no business telling somebody else they are filthy!
Post by: Flyin6 on September 22, 2022, 05:29:15 PM
I am going to preface this post with 2 things.
1. Make sure you understand that no disrespect or shade is being sent in Nate's direction
2. Some folks need to "go take a knee and drink water"
I am singularly not impressed with our more senior Army leadership. I keep hearing things that run counter to how we used to operate. Sure, we always trained hard and sacrificed, but what I am hearing is senior leaders not taking care of our soldiers. Particularly the lower enlisted. I know something about that because it seemed like every day, I had to do something to help some "Kid" out of a jam. Whether it was changing an assignment, helping with a DUI, marital problem, an issue with the law, or something, I could leverage my rank, and because I knew people and get a million little things done without anyone ever knowing.
As evidenced by …? what acts or actions have YOU physically witnessed to say that the military leadership is not taking care of soldiers? Or is this based off third- or fourth-hand opinionated gossip?
I listened to a couple of soldiers tell their stories following basic. Some of the accounts crossed the line. Additionally, I witnessed how Nate was treated upon arriving at Stewart. More like tossed into a sick bay for a couple weeks with very little contact. Next, the Defac was closed to the 1st brigade, 3ID and the soldiers forced to ride a bus to an off post location to eat. 40 min between buses does not allow time enough to eat. I got that from, like, everyone. Lower enlisted are just ordering delivery
This isn't about me, I just did what any good soldier would have done, and I bet that great guys like Matt and Nate, and Bobby and others here did a ton more. I am seeing a disturbing trend of not looking after our most valuable asset, our individual soldier. Example: So that deployment my boy and thousands like him just sent on in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine was clearly that, a deployment. A deployment with prospects of engaging in combat with Russians. We sent a contingent to NATO to fulfill our treaty obligations.
But now and after the fact, and in the last month of the 6-month deployment for the first batch of warriors, the Army has decided to call it a "Training exercise." BULL SHEET! It was deployed in response to armed intervention by an adversary plain and simple.
That was not a combat deployment! It was a training exercise, just like what re-forger was back in your day.
The deployment of thousands of soldiers from the US was a deployment. It was on presidential order and a direct response to the Russian invasion. Our soldiers trained while over there, and that makes sense. 1st Brigade was online to deploy to Korea up until a couple of weeks before they left to Germany. Those soldiers were rerouted as a contingency to stave off an expanding war in Europe. It was only changed to a "training exercise" well after the deployment and within a month of redeployment to CONUS
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/01/27/troops-these-bases-are-alert-deployment-over-ukraine-crisis.html
The soldier is there regardless of the label one places on it but guess what. If the soldier is deployed, he gets a little extra money to help with the expenses. Money to buy food because we do not do a great job of always feeding our troops. We give them money so that when they are marching through some village, they can buy a snickers bar because they missed breakfast because they were deployed on some listening post and their ruck was already too heavy with extra ammo. Yeah, they took money away from our soldiers, and I think that sucks! They took away the opportunity for the guys to get some deployment ribbon. They took away opportunities for the kids to go to schools, get promotions, and a ton of other things.
What money did they take from soldiers? If married soldier’s had their BAS (basic allowance for subsistence) taken from them and want to complain about it, then they should read AR 37-104-4 chapter 11 and AR 600-38 chapter
All the soldiers were paid BAS for the deployment until the last month when the thing changed into a training exercise. At that point, BAS was removed
4. How did they take away the opportunity of a deployment ribbon, when there is no such thing as a deployment ribbon!
Well, that can be debated. I was awarded several UN ribbons (Which I do not wear) while sent as a part of a US response to some situation that did not develop into a war. Now whether the deployment of loads of NATO soldiers was going to be given a name and thus possibly a ribbon is debatable. The US position of bowing out and calling it a training exercise is not giving credit where credit is due.
There is such a thing as a campaign ribbon, but again they were never deployed, and they never had combat orders. What opportunities were taken away from them regarding furthering education?
Very obviously the folks who went over were kept busy and well away from their garrison where they may have been able to go to any number of training events outside their unit activities. Those opportunities simply were not there. These kids stayed in the field nearly all of the time over there. No schools down pine tree alley. I see first hand other soldiers in the mommas circle of moms who sat back and did whatever they wanted and had opportunity, those who were not deployed. That's what I am refereing to.
They had access to correspondence courses, they had access to the education center, and they sure as heck had access to computers which would enable them to take online classes.
Disagree completely. These soldiers were worked practicially all of the time. Nate spent a couple months humping in the bush or shooting on a range or training with Belgian, Norwegian, Italian and other armies. He didn't have enough time to get a good night's sleep. No, certainly these soldiers got zero opportunity to do anything like that.
What opportunities were taken away from a soldier getting promoted?
See the above. Corespondence courses add promotion points. Around the post courses affort promotion points, our guys got zero of those. Soldier to soldier a private in a non deployed unit had six months more opportunity to do those things than the kids who deployed did.
That kid of mine was promised a hefty enlistment bonus, but here we sit nearly a year and a half and a real-world deployment later and the Army has not paid him one red cent of that bonus. He was going to pay off his truck to save on interest payments, but he never got the check.
Has Nate gone directly to finance (which he has that right) and spoke with them directly as to why he has not gotten his bonus yet? Has Nate spoken directly with anybody in his chain of command with the rank of E-7 to E-9 or O-3 to O-5 about this, or has it been his team/squad leader? Have you read his enlistment contract?
He has been to his PAC a couple of times and finally to the division finance. They are telling him som bull crap story pointing out that he fell into a time peroid where the Army switched systems. They think he was not coded, and now, wonderously, no one can find his enlistment paperwork. Not the recruitment station, nor its higher command, not Benning, no one. He should have been paid more than half a year ago. He has gone for help so much that he is concerned he will be labeled a winer over this.
My son does not want me to do anything about it, but my intentions were to find out who the Colonel and sergeant major were who has failed to fix this and hand their names along with a nicely documented letter over to my congressman to allow him to play around with their careers a bit.
I would tell you to stay out of it unless he SPECIFICALLY asked you to do something about it. If you get involved based off of your assumption of what he is venting about, you will negatively mark your son for the rest of his career in the military and he will stop telling you things for fear of how your actions are going to effect him down the line! I specifically gave you the name and phone number to a senior NCO in that unit and has said he will look out for Nate. Nate should know exactly who I am speaking about!
No, I'm not getting involved at all. Because if I did, I'd hammer the senior command along with all the names I know of the COC that touched this. I'd go straight to my congressman and speak to him personally. He is 7 miles away and I know him. But I did a fair number of years and I know how it was. It is probably worse that I remember and yea, I will not do something to "Mark" him. He has this and has made it clear he wants no help. But at the end of the day, he is my son, he is an American soldier and those are two things I dearly love.
So, no more needs to be said. I vented, you vented, it's one to one and the matter is closed.
Not taking care of our soldiers is simply the worse thing we can do as an Army that is led by a government intent on transitioning gays into men or women or birds or whatever and helping millions get into our welfare and social security system but at the same time allowing our warriors to help pay for it.
I see things that make me, shall we say sad, as I try not to talk that way. Why is it so vitally important for females to wear earrings in a combat uniform? Have their hair down? All the mandatory sensitivity classes that detract from training?
Oh lookie here…. Two perfect examples of the bigotry that has started to become common place here! This is the straw that broke the camels back for me!!!! What does somebody’s sexual orientation have to do with anything?! NOT A DAMN THING!!! Can they do the job that they said they would do?! Does somebody’s sexual orientation stop them from standing in front of a bullet?! Do the bigot’s on this site really believe that this is the 1950’s and that they will get infected with the gayness virus by touching, seeing, being near a gay person?! If you are bothered by somebody’s personal choice while they are still accomplishing their mission and feel the need to force your will or opinions onto them in some way, shape, fashion, or form, because it doesn’t fit YOUR opinion … then you are the virus that is still infecting this country!
The same thing goes with how a soldier presents themselves. Just because somebody has a haircut that you don’t like … does it make it wrong?! Because somebody has fingernails that are longer or colored in a way that you don’t agree with … does it make it wrong?! Shall I keep going?! Just like I stated in the last paragraph. If you are bothered by somebody’s personal choice while still accomplishing their mission and feel the need to force your will or opinions onto them in some way, shape, fashion, or form, because it doesn’t fit YOUR opinion … then you are the virus that is still infecting this country!
At Ft Stewart there is a big outcry currently about mold in the barracks showing up on social media. Now they are publicly saying they don't know why leaders aren't checking soldiers’ rooms. They fail to say that they have for years told them not to. Allow the soldiers some privacy. Things sure have changed.
When I toured the 1st brigade barracks, into some rooms, I was surprised at how dirty and messy things were. Dirt in the hallways and a general mess. That simply NEVER happened in my day. We used to have NCO's that took care of that stuff. I mean why not; they have a bunch of workers at their beck and call. See a mess, and just get it cleaned up or organize an all-nighter cleaning party. Next time you inspect, things were miraculously in order...amazing!
Please tell me how doing room inspections as anything to do with the quality of the lowest bidder’s construction of the building causing structural and hazardous conditions?! Stop abusing the bullcrap phrase leaders checking soldiers’ rooms! You want to get rid of mold and flooding and ac/heat problems and let’s not forget about the plumbing problems with the barracks at bragg … stop paying the lowest bidder millions of dollars and accepting the steaming piles of doo doo that they give to us. Its toxic phrases like this that cause people to leave the military!
Why does somebody who lives in the barracks have to have their privacy rights violated with inspections, but people who live else where have their privacy rights respected? In reality, those “leaders” that are checking soldiers’ rooms are the ones who live in self-induced cesspools and have absolutely no business telling somebody else they are filthy!
Post by: Flyin6 on October 04, 2022, 07:51:11 PM
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 05, 2022, 07:13:49 AM
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Post by: oklawall on October 05, 2022, 08:33:13 AM
And now you know how the wife felt everytime you left?I have said many times "Much easier to be the one going in place of staying home"
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Good picture boss
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Post by: Flyin6 on October 05, 2022, 11:05:00 AM
OK, Ya, and man is that ever true.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 06:03:57 PM
Post by: oklawall on January 10, 2023, 06:36:40 AM
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Post by: Atkinsmatt on January 10, 2023, 08:35:30 AM
Post by: Nate on January 10, 2023, 10:06:16 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 10, 2023, 06:17:46 PM
call for fire and the medical lane are the biggest failure points, hopefully he listened to his fisters and medics.We'll soon see
He was one of just a few to get that Norwegian award.
I later learned he also earned the Belgian PT excellence award, having to do back to back 40km ruck march/runs. 40KM in 5 hours or less, then repeat the very next day.
And
He won silver in the Dutch award
and
He was the only soldier in his brigade to get recommended to take the German PT test. That was called off because of mission requirements since they were there as part of a US contingent to NATO in case the Ukraine thing took an ugly turn.
And here is where I'll editorialize some. The kid took silver in three very prestigious soldier challenges. He was the ONLY soldier in the 1st Brigade to achieve that. You'd think there would be at least an Army Achievement Award if not an ARCOM for doing that, but nothing.
I said it before and I'm going to continue saying it, this is not any Army I knew. They fall all over themselves with inclusion training/brainwashing and a real soldier shows up and sees nothing.
And after many trips to his chain of command and coming up on his two-year point (in May) he still has not gotten his enlistment bonus!
It's a credit to him that he is trying so hard to prep for the EIB. Me, I hope he interviews for either Ranger or SF and gets the heck out of this regular Army as soon as he can.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 03, 2023, 11:36:15 AM
The last task was a 12 (or 13??) mile ruck march which has to be completed within 3 hours. I believe the start time was at 0100. I got a call very early this morning saying, "Dad, I did it."
Out of all the soldiers who started, only around 20% made it to the end.
It paid off big dividends for him, and it looks like he is going to get a shot at his dream.
Because of winning this badge as a PFC, they are going to send him off to the Ranger prep course. I used to call it RIP (Ranger Indoctrination program) but now it is called RASS or something like that.
(Sean, perhaps you can correct me here and let us all know what Rass stands for)
Basically, it is a couple of weeks of torture designed to weed out all but the toughest. Those who make it go on to the Ranger training course which last months and results in the successful candidate being awarded the coveted Ranger tab.
That's what the kid wants, and then an opportunity to actually join the Ranger regiment.
Thank God there are men with the stuff to make it to such lofty places. The enemies of America really fear Rangers, Recon Marines, and Seals, and the Green Berets. To go to war with us means you get to meet these men...
Post by: Nate on February 03, 2023, 01:09:59 PM
Make sure nate understands the true difference and meaning between the tab and the scroll!
Just because somebody went through the "leadership" course, it does not make them a ranger ... it only makes them qualified.
Post by: JR on February 04, 2023, 03:21:36 AM
Post by: Atkinsmatt on February 04, 2023, 07:39:40 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 04, 2023, 11:01:01 AM
A request don ...He understands very well.
Make sure nate understands the true difference and meaning between the tab and the scroll!
Just because somebody went through the "leadership" course, it does not make them a ranger ... it only makes them qualified.
My guess is we may well be looking at 100% real deal soldier here.
He is so focused and has changed so much
He works out every day in the gym when he is not in the field
He challenges every "Volunteer" opportunity they put before him.
He was recognized, as he was invited to become the Bde Cdr's driver...but for reasons only he can explain, he declined, opting instead to remain in the infantry company. He is focused with his eyes always on that tab.
Post by: cj7ox on February 06, 2023, 12:34:42 PM
Good for him! He's definitely got his eye on the prize, and knows what he wants. It's just a shame he had to decide to be a crunchy. :wink:
Post by: Flyin6 on February 06, 2023, 03:50:15 PM
He has wanted to be an Army Ranger since he was 3!
Post by: Flyin6 on February 11, 2023, 10:46:21 PM
He will be evaluated by taking a standard PT test, a swim test, a 5-mile run, a 12-mile ruck march with a 75 lb. ruck, night patrolling, and day/night land navigation along with some weapons evaluations.
He is concerned because he lost 12 pounds during the EIB test and has only regained some of that weight. He is working out constantly but reports his knees are not in the best condition. He was eating and drinking a protein shake the whole time we were talking.
If he completes the evaluation, he will be given a Ranger course date for this summer.
Best to ya son, go get 'em!
Post by: Mrwoody on February 12, 2023, 09:45:33 PM
Post by: cj7ox on February 13, 2023, 12:23:29 PM
It came up fast, but the kiddo starts the Ranger Assessment Course, a 4-day test on Tuesday.
He will be evaluated by taking a standard PT test, a swim test, a 5-mile run, a 12-mile ruck march with a 75 lb. ruck, night patrolling, and day/night land navigation along with some weapons evaluations.
He is concerned because he lost 12 pounds during the EIB test and has only regained some of that weight. He is working out constantly but reports his knees are not in the best condition. He was eating and drinking a protein shake the whole time we were talking.
If he completes the evaluation, he will be given a Ranger course date for this summer.
Best to ya son, go get 'em!
Outstanding!
Post by: oklawall on February 14, 2023, 08:26:03 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 14, 2023, 11:12:59 PM
He failed to meet the Ranger's PT test requirements.
He said they require 49 perfect pushups
With them counting he did 45
Their pushups are not like our pushups, suffice it to say.
That boy of mine is a rock. He has almost no body fat. He maxes standard Army PT tests, and he just won awards taking three other nations' military PT tests.
But for the Rangers, that is not enough
He says he will do this again the next time it is offered.
Post by: Atkinsmatt on February 15, 2023, 05:56:56 AM
Post by: cj7ox on February 15, 2023, 01:20:46 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 16, 2023, 10:32:07 AM
Good. That'll give him the time to replace the mass he lost recently. He now knows the standard for the RAC, and can practice. I'm sure he'll skate thru the next one!He blew out day 1. And he told me the night before he was worried about the upper body strength stuff. He knows his body. He was concerned about land nav, because of the lack of references on the map to use for night nav. Same-same as Benning, just flat and pine trees with a good helping of swamp to make things interesting.