Posted on Nov 6, 2013
SPC(P) Squad Leader
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So my entire perspective has been warped by how the Army functions here in Korea, and quite frankly it has discouraged me to reenlist for fear of the same drama and babysitting I've had to endure here. Is this how the Army is? I was told in AIT, "Big Army" is much better, but them Im told here that Korea is beast of its own. Well, which is it?
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SFC Michael Hasbun
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Something I've noticed is, no matter where you go, no matter where you're stationed, you'll always hear "this isn't the real Army". There seems to be some mythological perfect Army somewhere, but I can't tell you where it is, and everyone will claim it's elsewhere.

 

I hate to say it, but I think the honest answer to your question is yes, that IS how the Army is, to use your phrase, but everywhere you go will be so drastically different that you'll always find yourself asking that same question over again.

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SGT Orderly Room Ncoic
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My brother's first duty station was Korea, at your duty station actually.  He hated every second of it.  He let it dictate his feelings towards the Army, decided not to reenlist.  He ended up going to Ft. Irwin next and loved it.  But by the time he realized that he would want to stay in, it was too late.  

The great thing about the Army is it's always changing.  Just can't get along with an NCO/Officer? Don't worry, if you're single you'll be gone in 2 years anyways.  They'll probably PCS before you do.  Troops get moved around.  The unit I'm in is DRASTICALLY different than it was when I got here 2 years ago thanks to new Brigade, Battalion, and Co. level command teams.  I wasn't a fan of the constant BS, soldier mistakes, etc when I first got here, but now my company hasn't had an alcohol related incident in over 18 months.  

It's always changing, give it a chance.  I would say shoot for that reenlistment regardless. With the recent retention changes, competition is going to be fierce for initial term soldiers, as well as mid and career.  There aren't many slots and you shouldn't pass one by, just to figure out later you want to stay in but the Army has no room.

Good luck!
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PFC Toombes,

 

I have been in your shoes!  I have been in units where things happened and there seemed to be no good reason behind it other than "just because" and it gets annoying.  Just remember, as a private, you don't really see everything that is going on.  Granted you are in Korea and I have never been stationed there, I cannot speak for it.  However, in my previous units things like this seemed to happen quite often.  As MSG Cunningham stated, every unit is different.  I can assure you that he is 100% correct on that.  It is really good that you have an outlet and social network like this because not only can you talk to those who have been in your situation, but you can also meet others who are in locations that may be better suited for you when your time to reenlist comes. 

 

Judging by your MOS, there are a host of locations and duty stations you can become assigned to.  Just reach out to your fellow servicemen and women within your MOS and inquire about possible future duty stations for you.  I did this when I was stationed in Fort Hood four years ago and on the verge of head-butting a brick wall.  Next thing, I requested my current duty station with branch and got it.  I can promise you it is not all bad everywhere.  The army is not consumed of everything bad you have experienced in your current unit.  Honestly, some units will suck and some will be a dream.  Its all in what you make of it really.

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