Just John's Scribblings
When i was a kid i threatened my dad several times that i would join up. But he convinced me that the military isn't a good choice for women and I agree with that (now). I'm sure there are women who can hack it or excel even but as a general rule I think they pose more of a risk than a benefit. For a fella though it's a good choice.
Young men (and women) have few places to go and test themselves these days.
In the old days, a man farmed and had the responsibility of providing for his family. These days, young guys have meaningless jobs and sit in front of computer screens for fun. And somehow we are all surprised when they become alcoholics and addicts.
The US Navy was one of the best things that ever happened to me. I had to learn to get myself squared away and was give the honor of advancing in rank and being responsible for others. Where else can a young person get that kind of training and experience?
I'm not going into a big spill here over what enlisting in the Marine Corps meant to me, Lord knows we have talked a Hell of a lot about it and will a whole lot more...
Way to much to write here, but like you bro it was the best thing I ever done.
I wish we were serving together and in the same command...
Semper Fi.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/
tol...icle3241388.ece
Note that "attention to detail" is the recepie for success.
Who teaches attention to detail these days? High schools?
Nope, it's the guys the smokey bears!
I'm still getting the spelling details down!
The few, the proud, our Marine...
Love ya, Mom
Great post, John. I saw the changes in Aaron, and they came quickly and proudly. The Army did many of these same things for me.
I learned Honor, Integrity, and attention to detail (see kris above), and attempt to apply those characteristics to my daily life as a civilian. Though I occasionally fail, the military provided me with a benchmark from which to measure; a standard to begin from. Is everyone good for the military? Sadly, no; but is the military good for everyone? I believe it is. It reminds us of our mortality, and teaches us that we are NOT the center of the universe.
J.J.: I though you liked McCain?
Here's my post on the Juan Hernandez controversy, in any case:
http://americanpowerblog.blogspo...-right-
and.html
Nope; I'm certainly not a McCain fan. I've marveled from time to time at the tactics of his opponents, and the press, but that's about it. Like I've said before, I think he's a good man, but I can't support his stance on various issues, nor his voting record. Now if we could just infuse his pro-military stance into some of the other candidates....
John, first, thanks for sharing this. I was scared to death when my oldest decided to join the Marines, but it has turned out to be great for him. I can't believe how much more mature and responsible he is than most kids his age (and the same with his younger brother). 2nd, I agree with your view on McCain. I'm way too fiscally and socially conservative to vote for him, but I DO like that he is pro-military.
Not that it will ever happen in my lifetime, short of a revolution...... I think that we should follow the society proposed in Robert Heinlein's famous book "Starship Trooper". If you wanted to be a voting citizen, and hold voted public office, you need to serve a term in the military services, with an honorable discharge. Not that it would stop the Kerry's, McCain's or Murtha's, but they would be vastly outnumbered by those with a conservative sense of responsibility to the individual, as opposed to a socialist sense of responsibility to the collective society.
B Woodman
I am 25 and I think that I'm too old to join the military, Marines that is. Although my friends at work, who are ex-marines, laugh and ask me if I'm joking. Clearly, I agree with all the comments above because my friends have influenced me positively and challenged me to be better. Can someone give me a word of wisdome? Thanks.
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