If you could serve any decade in the US military, which one would you go back to? Why?

2021-07-27T22:28:20-04:00

Response by MSgt Don VandeBogert made Jul 27 at 2021 11:11 PM

2021-07-27T23:11:43-04:00

The '90s. Why? Because I was junior enlisted and could play the "I don't know sh!t!" card.

If I had to pick any other decade it would be the '40s. Just to see the amount of change happening in the world in such a short period of time and watching a nation coming together for a common goal. I doubt anyone alive today will witness anything like that again.

V/R
Bogie

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2021 11:29 PM

2021-07-27T23:29:48-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden I served with the 1st Marine Division in Vietnam. I could picture myself with the 1st Marine Division at Tarawa, Saipan, Iwo Jima and Guadalcanal.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jul 28 at 2021 12:30 AM

2021-07-28T00:30:48-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden My Army!

Response by SPC James Neidig made Jul 28 at 2021 1:21 AM

2021-07-28T01:21:33-04:00

1860s Civil War , there Was so many Changes to Warfare and Medical, Happening at that time , I Would Just Love to see it

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Jul 28 at 2021 8:10 AM

2021-07-28T08:10:20-04:00

Would of liked to been with my dad on the yalu.

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Jul 28 at 2021 8:35 AM

2021-07-28T08:35:44-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden I would stay with the Marines. I would want to got back to WWII. It actually had meaning to it unlike Vietnam. I could see myself on Iwo Jima and the battle of Okinawa.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jul 28 at 2021 10:07 AM

2021-07-28T10:07:46-04:00

Wh....why are they all grabbing each others crotches?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2021 10:12 AM

2021-07-28T10:12:27-04:00

Here and now is the only place I want to be.

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Jul 28 at 2021 11:35 AM

2021-07-28T11:35:10-04:00

I would have thought the 80's had to be a blast, lots of money to train with, new equipment, not a lot of road side bomb issues apart from Lebanon. That's the safe side of me. Not a lot of foreign wars and stupid ROE stuff. Since I never served in combat, I am not going to try to act all bad ass and claim I should have been on Guadalcanal or Tarawa or some place like that, since I have no idea how I would have done if the shooting started.

Response by SGT Chris Padgett made Jul 28 at 2021 2:47 PM

2021-07-28T14:47:29-04:00

The decade I came in, the 80's.
I came in in 1988, Reagan was still CIC and there was money for anything.
I'd love to have been able to come in sooner. There were still SP5's and the stick up peoples asses wasn't so rigid.

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Jul 28 at 2021 5:12 PM

2021-07-28T17:12:26-04:00

I served with the best there were in Vietnam. Why change and risk not making it home.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jul 29 at 2021 3:28 PM

2021-07-29T15:28:30-04:00

World War II for me. I think I would have liked being an Army Air Force pilot during WWII. The missions were real and critical to the war effort. Bombers, fighters, and transports all had important roles to play in defeating the Axis powers in Europe and Asia. Of those, I think being a bomber pilot in Europe would have been best. Real missions that destroyed enemy capabilities and demoralized the civilian populations. Laid the foundations for the post-war Air Force.

As a Cold Warrior, I missed some of the sense of mission and dedication the Greatest Generation experienced. We flew many missions that were purely training and some that seemed pretty useless. My best flying assignment was in Alaska where we often flew logistics missions to remote radar sites. We supplied all of their food, medicine, parts, and other supplies. We also brought in replacement personnel and carried the outgoing personnel back to civilization.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Jul 29 at 2021 5:32 PM

2021-07-29T17:32:57-04:00

2150s in the Space Force. So when I go *pew pew* it is making the ACTUAL sounds of my weapon. Plus, according to the movies, aliens always fall into one of two categories: Monsters or inexplicably hot humanoids. Kill the first and, well..... you get the idea. Gonna get my Captain Kirk on.

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Aug 13 at 2021 4:53 PM

2021-08-13T16:53:48-04:00

I'd have to go 1770's - just to see and know how it all started.

Response by PO2 Marty Sharpe made Aug 13 at 2021 5:48 PM

2021-08-13T17:48:25-04:00

1960s

Response by LTC Yinon Weiss made Aug 13 at 2021 5:51 PM

2021-08-13T17:51:16-04:00

1940-1945, to serve in the greatest fighting force fighting for the greatest good.

Response by SPC Simon Garcia made Aug 13 at 2021 5:52 PM

2021-08-13T17:52:08-04:00

The very beginning, 1776. I know they suffered greatly, but just imagine the accomplishment, the glory of defeating the worlds greatest Army and creating a new country!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 5:52 PM

2021-08-13T17:52:43-04:00

World War Two—somewhere in Europe

Response by 1SG Steven Imerman made Aug 13 at 2021 5:55 PM

2021-08-13T17:55:05-04:00

I would like to have joined in 1851 so I had some rank at the beginning of the Civil War. I've always thought the troops who fought for the Union were the best generation we ever produced.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Aug 13 at 2021 5:59 PM

2021-08-13T17:59:09-04:00

I served from 1971 to 2000.
I believe that I enjoyed my experiences as a junior officer in the 70’s more than I did as a more senior officer in the 80’s and 90’s, probably because I was much closer to the troops.
I can’t imagine I would have enjoyed a prior decade any more.
Therefore, I’ll say the 70’s.

Response by CW2 Michael Desmond made Aug 13 at 2021 5:59 PM

2021-08-13T17:59:16-04:00

1910-1920

Response by Capt Ron Sherlock made Aug 13 at 2021 6:00 PM

2021-08-13T18:00:33-04:00

Probably during the 80's during the Reagan buildup.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 6:00 PM

2021-08-13T18:00:47-04:00

1970's Because then I would have obtained my college degrees and entered the USAF as an Officer in some technical capacity... As it was, I received my degrees in the 1970's, so I did it in reverse... LOL!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 6:00 PM

2021-08-13T18:00:59-04:00

Right when I served. Mid 60’s-mid 80’s. I was a helicopter pilot/Aircraft Commander during Vietnam at 19 years old, can’t do that now. The development of helicopters and tactics were at their peak. I was later commissioned and served in Infantry Battalion and Brigade. We had money to train and maintain.

Response by SR Michele Butcher made Aug 13 at 2021 6:01 PM

2021-08-13T18:01:38-04:00

Same branch but in the 80’s

Response by SPC Leanetta Scott made Aug 13 at 2021 6:02 PM

2021-08-13T18:02:14-04:00

This is weird, but not really. Do I get to keep the same knowledge that I have now or will my time rewind or whatever? If I can keep the knowledge I have now even though I’m Black I want to go back to the civil war because I want to see General George in action and I think I’ll be able to keep myself alive. If it’s not limited to our military I’d go to see the Romans do their thing too. I mean they were the powerhouses of their time IMHO. But I also want to see the medical advances and war strategies of these militaries. There’s so much I want to see. I love history not just US so I’ll just leave it here cause I can talk about this all day.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 6:03 PM

2021-08-13T18:03:07-04:00

I would choose the 90s and the air force, a lot younger with a more open mind

Response by MAJ Alan Reiter M.A. made Aug 13 at 2021 6:03 PM

2021-08-13T18:03:36-04:00

I enlisted in the army in November 1969 and served on active duty, the NYARNG, the US Army Reserve and Retired Reserve until retirement in 2006. My enlisted MOS was Medical Corpsman and after OCS I was Commissioned an Infantry Officer. I was also a fully qualified Transportation Officer having completed the Advanced Officer Transportation course and the US Army Command and General Staff College. Upon mobilization in September 1990, I served on the staff of the DCGTRANS as the Theater Tasking Officer during Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Desert Farewell. I would not change anything I did in the service of my country.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Aug 13 at 2021 6:07 PM

2021-08-13T18:07:03-04:00

Served 1965 to 1988 was happy with that.
Did want to go back in the 1990s for middle east fun and games.
When I was in went to the middle east 3 times, working out of the embassy's on TAFT teams.

Response by MSG Kevin Elliott made Aug 13 at 2021 6:09 PM

2021-08-13T18:09:07-04:00

1860s. I could participate in the Civil War and the Indian Wars on the Plains.

Response by SGT Anna Tyler made Aug 13 at 2021 6:09 PM

2021-08-13T18:09:41-04:00

Post Vietnam. I got out at that time because my whole unit was being reassigned to different overseas stations. Korea, Germany, Okinawa etc. At that time I didn’t want to go anywhere near overseas so I decided to ETS. In hindsight I wish I had stayed in longer and gone overseas for the experience.

Response by PV2 Duane Schlender made Aug 13 at 2021 6:10 PM

2021-08-13T18:10:19-04:00

1940's. Military service meant something then, and people treated each other with more respect and dignity than any time since. Regardless of politics of course.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 6:11 PM

2021-08-13T18:11:17-04:00

Late 1930's through the '40s. The rise and fall of the Axis powers, WWII of course. 2nd choice if allowed would be Cold War West/East Berlin 70's to 80's again.

Response by MSgt Shawn Sones made Aug 13 at 2021 6:13 PM

2021-08-13T18:13:14-04:00

The 40's or 50's, when the AF was much younger and more exciting, yet more professional and not caving in to socail dumbshit or political correctness. The first part of the 80's were okay, because the Cold War was still going pretty well, and I never should have retrained out of my original career field, Security Police.

Response by Sgt Michael Woods made Aug 13 at 2021 6:14 PM

2021-08-13T18:14:30-04:00

Late 60's to Early 70's......Part of the Vietnam Era. I Joined the Marines because of this time period.

Response by SGT Bob Straub made Aug 13 at 2021 6:16 PM

2021-08-13T18:16:52-04:00

1775 to 1785 ... Revolutionary War,
fighting for freedom and independence

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Aug 13 at 2021 6:22 PM

2021-08-13T18:22:11-04:00

As a Navy nurse in WWll

Response by LTC Angie Habina made Aug 13 at 2021 6:22 PM

2021-08-13T18:22:19-04:00

I probably would not do it again. The why is a long story.

Response by CW5 Mark Smith made Aug 13 at 2021 6:23 PM

2021-08-13T18:23:43-04:00

Without question, WWII. The cause was just and the American people supported the military. More specifically, a B-17 or B-24 crew member.

Response by PV2 Eric Coop made Aug 13 at 2021 6:24 PM

2021-08-13T18:24:24-04:00

40s. We were winning wars and kicking butt!

Response by SGT DeAnna Slettebak made Aug 13 at 2021 6:28 PM

2021-08-13T18:28:43-04:00

As a female I would have to say I would stay in the 2000s, although I believe I would have liked to have served in the Army Nurse Corp during WWII because there was so many advances in medicine during that time period.

Response by CPT Larry Hellie made Aug 13 at 2021 6:32 PM

2021-08-13T18:32:56-04:00

1870's with either the 9th or 10th US Cavalry, the "Buffalo Soldiers". I would have been pround to be an officer with the best cavalry units in the US Army.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 6:36 PM

2021-08-13T18:36:46-04:00

The year I joined 1972! There was change in the US as well as in the Army itself, huge changes. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. It was a hard time, the Army revamped itself, became a more professional organization, and started holding people accountable, at all grades. The NCO Corps had to re-invent itself and regain the professionalism and then the trust of the Officer Corps. That was a long, hard row to hoe, Vietnam did a real job on the NCO Trust and Confidence arena, I tell ya. We had some exceptional ones, but we had more that were decent in a combat environment than a peacetime world, and were having a real hard time making the transition. It took almost a decade to get things straightened out and the professionalism back up, and surpassed, from previous levels, but we did it. I'm proud to say I did my part to make it happen.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 6:41 PM

2021-08-13T18:41:37-04:00

1770s.

Response by 1LT Voyle Smith made Aug 13 at 2021 6:41 PM

2021-08-13T18:41:47-04:00

I would choose the 1960s because that was the period in which I served and at least I now know what to expect from it and learned how to survive in it.

Response by SGM Ronald Cheatom made Aug 13 at 2021 6:42 PM

2021-08-13T18:42:40-04:00

I think either as a Buffalo Soldier, in the 1870s, or in my early career, the 1980s. I enjoyed being an Infantryman, a paratrooper, and a SF trooper.

Response by SFC Kathy Pepper made Aug 13 at 2021 6:43 PM

2021-08-13T18:43:07-04:00

WWII. I have a passion for old movies, and the movies of the 1940s have romanticized the military of that time. Intellectually, I realize that patriotic fervor was at an all-time high (i.e. the “Greatest Generation”), and the military was every bit as difficult as during (insert decade here). Still, I can’t get past the uniforms, hairstyles, and USO dances. Second choice: I would take (most of) the years I served, 1981-2016.

Response by Maj Robert Thornton made Aug 13 at 2021 6:44 PM

2021-08-13T18:44:15-04:00

That is a tough question to answer. Growing up I always thought about the Coast Guard. Where I grew up on Long Island we had a CG station across the bay. I believe if I could become 17 again I would like to test to get into the Coast Guard Academy of present day.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Aug 13 at 2021 6:45 PM

2021-08-13T18:45:57-04:00

For me I would have to say WWII as a tanker serving under GEN Patton during the whole drive through France and into Germany.

Response by SSG Ralph Geigner made Aug 13 at 2021 6:47 PM

2021-08-13T18:47:49-04:00

I have a bunch, The War of 1812 & The War with Mexico ( or the TX Revote ) I find these periods very unique, the better use of weapons, I like the Rifles and cannon, uniforms and the battles, Also during the War of 1812 war was in Europe, Napoleonic Wars, that I find of interest, I've been to a few battle sites in Russia and in Austria and Bavaria, I am a CSA Re-Enactor and enjoy the CSA history,

Response by PV2 Florence Henry made Aug 13 at 2021 6:48 PM

2021-08-13T18:48:09-04:00

Vietnam Conflict, Many memories, need to help others.

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Aug 13 at 2021 6:56 PM

2021-08-13T18:56:24-04:00

Whenever in the future allows me to go to space regularly with the space force !
BTW, I have real questions about the picture for this thread, and I that is coming from a sailor!

Response by LCpl John Carr made Aug 13 at 2021 6:57 PM

2021-08-13T18:57:10-04:00

I would go back to my original assignment of the late 1960's. We fought like hell and for a noble cause. No regrets!!!
proud Marine.

Response by SGT(P) Jazmin Johnson made Aug 13 at 2021 7:03 PM

2021-08-13T19:03:48-04:00

This is a tricky question for me, as a woman I wouldn’t have the same choices as I do now for serving. I would love to have been in the revolutionary war because I’m a hopeless patriot. Serving in the civil war would have been interesting but there wasn’t a US Army technically for that war. WW2 I would have been a WASP without a doubt! 1940s win!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 7:05 PM

2021-08-13T19:05:18-04:00

1770s The stakes were highest. The bitching was legitimate. There was less medical documentation burden. If Henry Knox asked for a sawbones for a road trip to Ticonderoga…I’m your Huckleberry

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made Aug 13 at 2021 7:08 PM

2021-08-13T19:08:26-04:00

40s in the Air Corps, in England

Response by TSgt Dierdre Vans Evers made Aug 13 at 2021 7:09 PM

2021-08-13T19:09:59-04:00

I would still serve in the 70s -- it was fascinating to be part of the early days of women being able to serve in all but a few AFSCs. We opened the door for women being able to be air crew and to be in technical fields.

Response by SP5 Paul C. Steffy made Aug 13 at 2021 7:11 PM

2021-08-13T19:11:35-04:00

I'd like to see if the insanity has stopped in the year 2420. WE already know what it was like in the past! When one considers the lives lost, both military and civilian, and the property damage inflicted, how can a sane person accept a future on earth that allows wars. A Federation, of sorts, should be ready to crush tyranny at its fledgling introduction from any country. "Get with the humanitarian program, or be vaporized!" All the world needs to help one-another if we are going to survive into the next millennium ahead-----we'd better get our world in order-----or there will be no world to live in as humans who still possess brainpower. The trouble is-----its a tall order and nearly impossible to achieve. But we should keep trying.

Response by Sgt Josh Yates made Aug 13 at 2021 7:27 PM

2021-08-13T19:27:48-04:00

Same. 2000 to 2005.

Response by SrA Alvin Cook made Aug 13 at 2021 7:44 PM

2021-08-13T19:44:20-04:00

Vietnam because I could have served along my 3 brothers who all served in the Air Force during that period

Response by SPC Deborah Root-White made Aug 13 at 2021 7:49 PM

2021-08-13T19:49:59-04:00

I would go back to when I enlisted - 1975. It was a perfect time for me to join the Army and learn new skills.

Response by PFC Nicholas Efstathiou made Aug 13 at 2021 7:54 PM

2021-08-13T19:54:05-04:00

I wouldn't change where or who I served with.

Response by MAJ Alex Hernandez made Aug 13 at 2021 8:01 PM

2021-08-13T20:01:32-04:00

I would go back and serve in Vietnam again

Response by CSM David Litteral made Aug 13 at 2021 8:02 PM

2021-08-13T20:02:44-04:00

That's an interesting question. First, I served in 4 decades. I was in a different rank group (Jr Enl, Jr NCO, Sr. NCO, and CSM) in each of the decades. So, my feelings about my service in each of those decades is based on looking at it through the lens of that rank. So, if I were to look back as a Jr Enl Soldier, I would like to have served in the 1870-79. As a Jr NCO, probably the 1910-1919. As a Senior NCO, 2000-2009. As a CSM- the same period 2000-2009.

Response by SSgt Rilene Ann made Aug 13 at 2021 8:03 PM

2021-08-13T20:03:44-04:00

Liked my experience 76-81 active 82-84 reserves, but was in AK.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 8:26 PM

2021-08-13T20:26:01-04:00

1940s. I have always had an attraction to the war in Europe. Perhaps I was once there in a previous life. Having said that, I also would like to be in a certain plane flying away from Japan around 8am on August 6 1945

Response by SGT Eric A. made Aug 13 at 2021 8:41 PM

2021-08-13T20:41:09-04:00

Wow, what a question! My first thought was "I'd HAVE to go back to the 1770s so I could KICK ASS with our original Commander-in-Chief, General / President George Washington!!

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2021 8:43 PM

2021-08-13T20:43:22-04:00

Corps, US Marine, amphibious, any era.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Aug 13 at 2021 8:52 PM

2021-08-13T20:52:51-04:00

Thank you my friend SSG Carlos Madden for posting an interesting question.
I enlisted in 1974.
As a student of military history, I would choose to go back to the 1930's and be involved in preparing the Army for the operations of the 1940s and 1950. Instead of graduating from USMA, West Point in 1980, I would graduate in 1926 after enlisting in 1921 instead of 1974.
1. Endless opportunities to help shape the force; the end of operational horse cavalry being replaced by armored forces [armored cavalry, tank units and infantry support units, the change from horse drawn to motorized transport and the birth of the Army Air Corps .
2. I would enjoy being involved in the development of tactical and operational procedures, practices and working to take advantage of technical advancements while supporting Maj Gen George S. Patton training armored forces; Maj. Gen. Benjamin D. Foulois and Maj. Gen. Henry H. Arnold training army air corps personnel and Chief of Staff George Marshall.
FYI MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. LTC Bill Koski Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. Maj Marty Hogan SGT Private RallyPoint Member SGT James Murphy CSM Charles Hayden SFC William Farrell MSG Andrew White COL Mikel J. Burroughs 1LT Voyle Smith SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D SPC Nancy Greene SPC Margaret Higgins SSgt Kelly D. SGT Mary G. SSgt Marian Mitchell

Response by SGT Ted Adams made Aug 13 at 2021 8:54 PM

2021-08-13T20:54:31-04:00

I would serve in the fifties as it was a more quiet time and our society appreciated the military.

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Aug 13 at 2021 9:02 PM

2021-08-13T21:02:51-04:00

Doesn’t matter to me. It was every bit as important to serve in peace as it was to serve during war time. I served immediately post Vietnam where it took 37 seconds to get spit on as I left the gate at boot camp. I like to think I earned my right to enjoy the freedoms and privileges of this great nation. Every time period had good things and bad things about them. We all paid some kind of price for our service. I’m proud to have served with some great people and would do so again without hesitation.

Response by Maj Cynthia Y. made Aug 13 at 2021 9:05 PM

2021-08-13T21:05:18-04:00

As an Asian-American female, I doubt I would have been tolerated in any earlier decades.

Response by SGT Joseph Schmalzel made Aug 13 at 2021 9:17 PM

2021-08-13T21:17:15-04:00

1980's and 90's

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Aug 13 at 2021 9:23 PM

2021-08-13T21:23:31-04:00

I would go right back to the time I was in — during the mid 2000s when both the wars were going on and in full swing.

Response by SPC Jason Helsel made Aug 13 at 2021 9:26 PM

2021-08-13T21:26:14-04:00

2001-2010 The majority of my actual service date. I wouldn't change it.

Response by CPL James S. made Aug 13 at 2021 9:48 PM

2021-08-13T21:48:29-04:00

I would serve exactly the same tours of duty that I did serve.
As for the why: I have no regrets and I know what I did changed lives.

Response by Capt Vickie Adams made Aug 13 at 2021 10:00 PM

2021-08-13T22:00:34-04:00

I served in the USAF from 1972-1992, eight years enlisted surgical scrub tech. Operation Bootstrap, then Officer Training School. I was commissioned in 1980. I would like to serve after graduating college and becoming as officer from Day One. I also wish I had been assigned to Europe.

Response by SGT Norwood Hux made Aug 13 at 2021 10:04 PM

2021-08-13T22:04:33-04:00

70s-80s

Response by SPC David S. made Aug 13 at 2021 10:06 PM

2021-08-13T22:06:17-04:00

If I can only pick one fighter pilot WWI.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made Aug 13 at 2021 10:37 PM

2021-08-13T22:37:21-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden I would go back to the 1960s Vietnam because the host of Vietnam Veterans I have met over RallyPoint have impressed upon me the desire to make them know they were the trailblazers that pointed to how our citizens should never blame any active duty or veteran for doing the job the Country's politics demanded. I cannot go back to the 1960s and walk that walk but I can continue developing content for WIZS Town Talk Veterans, to give the veteran population a platform to use their voice. https://wizs.com/towntalk/

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Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made Aug 13 at 2021 10:50 PM

2021-08-13T22:50:54-04:00

I would want to serve from early Post WWII to Post Korean War to be part of rebuilding the world.

Response by SMSgt Bryan Raines made Aug 13 at 2021 11:05 PM

2021-08-13T23:05:03-04:00

1980’s

Response by SSG William Jones made Aug 13 at 2021 11:38 PM

2021-08-13T23:38:39-04:00

I would've liked serving with my Dad in the 34th "Red Bull" I.D. in Africa, Sicily and Italy from 1942-1945. Our relationship would've been weird though, him being my Dad. Secondly, I would have liked to serve with the 43rd Partisan Rangers under "The Gray Ghost" John Singleton Mosby. That would've been a phenomenal experience‼️ Thankful to have served when I did, though... 1968 - 1974 and 1990 - 1999. (Yep - skipped the entire 80's, but that would've been a great time to be serving‼️)

Response by SrA Andrew McCarty made Aug 13 at 2021 11:50 PM

2021-08-13T23:50:24-04:00

US Air Force during the Civil War

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Aug 13 at 2021 11:50 PM

2021-08-13T23:50:30-04:00

I can’t imagine serving at any other time than when I served. I tried to picture myself in each war we’ve fought. I think the opening days of the Korean War are pure nightmare fuel, second only to the retrograde from the Chosin.

Response by SCPO Morris Ramsey made Aug 13 at 2021 11:52 PM

2021-08-13T23:52:09-04:00

1960

Response by LTC Trent Klug made Aug 14 at 2021 12:03 AM

2021-08-14T00:03:44-04:00

As a former Marine, I would want to serve during WW2 withers the 1st Marine Division.

As a Soldier, I would want to serve in WW2 with the 26th Infantry, 1st Ifantry Division just so I could serve with my Grandfather.

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Aug 14 at 2021 12:06 AM

2021-08-14T00:06:26-04:00

I enjoyed my time in the 70s and 80s, but I have to say the USCG has some very cool equipment in service or coming on line today.

Response by SSgt Marian Mitchell made Aug 14 at 2021 12:15 AM

2021-08-14T00:15:05-04:00

I came in in 1974 and had no idea the Vietnam War hadn't been officially ended but I so wanted to come into the Air Force.
I would have wanted to come in a few years before I did to better truly understand the ugliness of those coming back from Vietnam and how they were treated. So many I knew just wouldn't talk about it.

Response by A1C Sandy Ludington-Arieno made Aug 14 at 2021 12:24 AM

2021-08-14T00:24:18-04:00

I wouldn't change the time when I was in. We had tradition and strict discipline, we had pride in our uniform and jobs.

Response by SPC Douglas Bolton made Aug 14 at 2021 1:06 AM

2021-08-14T01:06:32-04:00

WWII so I could be in the trenches with my uncles who fought then.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Aug 14 at 2021 1:16 AM

2021-08-14T01:16:03-04:00

Westward expansion..manifest destiny..1865-1900..

Response by SSG Randy Talbot made Aug 14 at 2021 2:43 AM

2021-08-14T02:43:39-04:00

The decades that I served in. The period of 1975-1990 was one of innovation, new equipment, revitalizing the nco corps after Vietnam and getting back to training and not simulation. It was a tough time too. Vietnam was just over and most of my very first unit were vets. A big struggle between Vietnam era ncos and volar recruits. Remember, some called this the hollow army but the weapons that won desert storm were made in this period.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2021 3:34 AM

2021-08-14T03:34:55-04:00

1940s. The bad guys were clearly identified and the good guys were appreciated.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Aug 14 at 2021 6:46 AM

2021-08-14T06:46:51-04:00

Back to the late '70's SSG Carlos Madden, it was a time of simplicity for me.

Response by CWO3 Dennis M. made Aug 14 at 2021 7:02 AM

2021-08-14T07:02:59-04:00

1776, the revolutionary war would be my decade to serve. To be be with and fight with the very men that fought for our freedom and founded our Nation would be a great time to serve. My 5th Great Grandfather was in the 2nd Regiment of the NY Continental Line and was in Valley forge with Washington's, Army. It would have been a great honor to have served at that time and with those men.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Aug 14 at 2021 8:02 AM

2021-08-14T08:02:00-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden I served for 37 years from 1975 to 2012. I would definitley not want to serve in today's Army, but I would have served proudly between 1965 and 1975...I have deep respect for those who served during this time period and were treated like dirt when they came home - they will always have my deepest respect. I also would have been very proud to serve from 1940 to 1955 and serve my country during WWII and Korea (My Dad's oldest brother served in the Pacifc during WWII) and my Dad served in Korea in 1951 with the 25th Infantry Division and received the Purple Heart. I would have been proud to serve in any of the other military service branches during the same time frames as mentioned above.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2021 8:43 AM

2021-08-14T08:43:08-04:00

2000-2010

Response by SFC Robert Falco made Aug 14 at 2021 9:11 AM

2021-08-14T09:11:04-04:00

I joined in 1980 and served through 2000 when I retired. If I could go back I'd serve during the same time, but I'd have stayed in through at least 2010. The 80's were the height of the "Cold War" and of course in the early 90's the Communist Soviet Union fell apart. World maps changed as governments fell.

Response by Capt Rich Buckley made Aug 14 at 2021 9:20 AM

2021-08-14T09:20:46-04:00

I have no desire to fight as a leader of men in some great battle as General Patton was depicted in Hollywood movies. I’m a small town Realtor. In 63 through 68 I was a pilot in the US Marines serving in Vietnam for 120 missions flying F4b’s.

My consciousness studies for the past 13 years in regression hypnosis convinces me we choose the approximate life we live.

My love of aviation and flying is stronger than any need to fight.

Somehow or other each life I live seems to include some aspect of flying. We are nearly always where we are suppose to be, doing what we do. Each life is a divine mission we choose or are prodded by our higher self to participate in. Just do the best you can now.

As best I can interpret in the immediate prior life, I was shot down and killed as a pilot flying for the Luftwaffe, of all things. Not certain if it was WWI or WW2 as the flames consumed me.

I’m there to fly because I love aviation and I’m here to serve.

Right now, right here, is one of this world’s greatest battles and greatest timeline moments. We are all in the epic battle of all time between powers of darkness and powers of harmony, love and light.

If you are asking me to choose the greatest battle of all time, well hell, we’re in it! We chose this out of all past or future battles available to us for our soul’s growth and this is beyond hypothetical.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2021 9:32 AM

2021-08-14T09:32:55-04:00

Would choose WWII to serve with my Dad in every theater of operation he started in tie Philippines then to North Africa/Middle East, then to Europe staying ahead of Patton all the way to Austria, then back to the Philippines to finish out the war according to his DD214

Response by SPC Tamara Trammell made Aug 14 at 2021 11:26 AM

2021-08-14T11:26:23-04:00

This one.
All jobs and schools opened to women in 2016. I got out in 2014 and when I tried to go back in someone screwed my paperwork so badly it would take something close to congressional intervention to get that shit straightened out.

I'm not ambitious. I was a combat medic attached to an infantry unit and that's all I wanted to be, but it really weighed on me seeing First Sergeant walk in front of formation every week trying to get SOMEONE to sign up for Ranger School. If it had been an option, would I have signed up? Maybe even tried for a green beret someday? Probably not. But knowing there was a cap on what I could even try to do was a constant irritant.

Response by CSM Curt Tipton made Aug 14 at 2021 11:28 AM

2021-08-14T11:28:47-04:00

1861-65 and I would serve in the Army of the Confederacy.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Aug 14 at 2021 11:58 AM

2021-08-14T11:58:51-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden I would go back to the 1990's for me In the Army of course it was a trial and error time in my life. It was so fun during those times and I will never forget them.

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Aug 14 at 2021 12:21 PM

2021-08-14T12:21:18-04:00

That is a tough question. I am not disappointed in my era. We have been in conflict for all by a few of thr 37 I have served. I think the late 40s when the Army Air Corps began would be an exciting time. Things have changed so drastically in the last 10 years, I am glad my rime is drawing near. Not much of answer but would pick thr 80s and 90s again.

Response by SGT(P) Joseph Esposito made Aug 14 at 2021 1:01 PM

2021-08-14T13:01:27-04:00

WWII or the Rough Riders in the late 1800's.

Response by PFC Ryan Vance made Aug 14 at 2021 1:37 PM

2021-08-14T13:37:12-04:00

I would choose to go to WWII Pacific Theater or Vietnam

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2021 1:43 PM

2021-08-14T13:43:31-04:00

Really I liked the time I was in, 1979 thru 2004. A lot happened during that time period and I was part of it. My only regret was I should have stayed active duty in the Corps. But the Lord had other plans for me and everything worked out.

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2021 2:17 PM

2021-08-14T14:17:49-04:00

1940-1950; the principles involved

Response by SSG Donald H "Don" Bates made Aug 14 at 2021 3:24 PM

2021-08-14T15:24:32-04:00

I would stick with my original branch, US Army. My old group was closed out so wonder where I would have been over the past decades. I servced 1953-1955, lots of changes since then.

Response by SSgt Donald Libby made Aug 14 at 2021 4:53 PM

2021-08-14T16:53:44-04:00

1770 - 1780

Response by PO3 Stephen Nurse made Aug 14 at 2021 5:05 PM

2021-08-14T17:05:22-04:00

Branch(es) : Navy, Coast Guard, or Air Force
Time Period : Early 2000s (in spite of Bush/Cheney and OIF & OEF)
Reason(s) : To become an aviator ( non-fighter/bomber ) OR an air traffic controller. In addition to doin cool shit like: jump school, SERE school, deploying w/ a carrier strike group, CASEVAC & medivac flights, search & rescue flights, logistical support, etc.

Response by A1C Sandie Weidner made Aug 14 at 2021 5:18 PM

2021-08-14T17:18:21-04:00

I enjoyed myself while in, but if had to do it over, 80's as women in the military were finally getting the respect that they deserve for their service. Women now a days are not held up on a pedestal while serving next to the men. they are promoted right along with the men as equals, not as an aftermath.

Response by LTC J. Lee Mudd made Aug 14 at 2021 5:30 PM

2021-08-14T17:30:18-04:00

First choice: 1930s
Second choice: 1940s

Response by SFC Edward Ermey made Aug 14 at 2021 6:31 PM

2021-08-14T18:31:20-04:00

I wish I could have started my career in 1979, I would have been able to enjoy all of the 1980's.
But I started out in the NG in 1982 while in high school, 1984 in the RA.
I did enjoy the 80's plenty of training options. By the time 2010 came around I was glad to retire.
I had half of my career in the Infantry, and the last half in Maintenance. Was a Motor Sergeant for my last 8 years. The 80's was all about the team work, the 90's reduction in forces and politics started taking a toll, the 2000's was all about politics, perception, what's in it for me, and political correctness.
I enjoyed being trained by Vietnam veterans and when they were gone, missed them dearly.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2021 8:02 PM

2021-08-14T20:02:11-04:00

I would want to serve during either WWII or the Civil War. If offered the American Revolution, I would take it. All three are my favorite periods of history, and while I know life sucked for our professions of Arms in those times, I would love to experience their lifestyle firsthand to gain a more definitive understanding of it. Given, of course, that I could come back to modern time and report on it.

Response by CPL Eudora Powell made Aug 14 at 2021 10:19 PM

2021-08-14T22:19:31-04:00

I wouldn't change a thing. There were great times and traumatic times in the army. But the people I met, knew and still love, even though I no longer have contact, helped shape me into who I am now. God bless them, they were awesome!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2021 3:37 AM

2021-08-15T03:37:55-04:00

WWII

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Aug 15 at 2021 4:27 AM

2021-08-15T04:27:09-04:00

1942-1962

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Aug 15 at 2021 7:59 AM

2021-08-15T07:59:07-04:00

The American Revolution.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Aug 15 at 2021 9:03 AM

2021-08-15T09:03:27-04:00

No touching

Response by MAJ David Bigelow made Aug 15 at 2021 9:47 AM

2021-08-15T09:47:15-04:00

I think the unit is a far more im[portant choice than the time period.

Response by SFC Don Vance made Aug 15 at 2021 12:18 PM

2021-08-15T12:18:19-04:00

I'm torn between the 1770s and 1860s. Those wars formed and shaped our nation to become where we are today. The soldiers were actually fighting for what they believed in and the outcome affected their families for generations to come.

Response by Col Joseph Lenertz made Aug 15 at 2021 3:21 PM

2021-08-15T15:21:56-04:00

I agree with SGT Chris Padgett . I was lucky to enter the USAF Academy in 1980. By the time I graduated from pilot training in 1985, most of the hard feelings of Vietnam had been turned around and we were looked at as the good guys once again. Reagan defense budgets meant plenty of new toys and a few small skirmishes to prove them out. The fall of the Berlin wall and repudiation of communism made us feel 10 feet tall.

Response by SSG Diane R. made Aug 15 at 2021 3:44 PM

2021-08-15T15:44:34-04:00

1960's, Germany.

Response by MGySgt Bob Willis made Aug 15 at 2021 4:02 PM

2021-08-15T16:02:52-04:00

The Marine Corps in the 1920s & 30s. Small units of Marines serving in Central and South America, Haiti, Cuba, and guarding the US Mail. Sounds like fun times.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2021 5:20 PM

2021-08-15T17:20:57-04:00

I would prefer the 1940's when you were graded on what you were and what you could be. Granted I like the life expectancy of now better.

Response by SSG Brian MacBain made Aug 15 at 2021 9:41 PM

2021-08-15T21:41:21-04:00

I would say early 90's. was station in Germany and the beer was great!!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2021 10:38 PM

2021-08-15T22:38:43-04:00

WWII. I hate the world anymore.

Response by SrA John Monette made Aug 16 at 2021 7:06 AM

2021-08-16T07:06:58-04:00

i'd have to keep my original service time. Late 1980's to early 1990's.

Response by CPO Nate S. made Aug 16 at 2021 3:24 PM

2021-08-16T15:24:24-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden Even though as I shared with PO2 David Witt I served from 1975 to 1996 and had a good career and I was forced to choose it would be WWII. My grandfather was executed by the NAZIs for his faith, and I would be happy, during the war to take out any member of NAZI leadership who espouse they were "more equal" or "superior" to another.

This said the modern post-Vietnam military, especially during Reagan saw improvements that were needed and I was proud to be part of that transition, especially during Gulf War I.

Response by PO3 Erik Jensen made Aug 16 at 2021 6:23 PM

2021-08-16T18:23:45-04:00

I served in the mid 90's in the Coast Guard. It was a major transition period for that branch. If I was to go a decade... 1940's... or the 1960's....

Response by Sgt Jay Jones made Aug 16 at 2021 7:52 PM

2021-08-16T19:52:01-04:00

I would stick with Vietnam!

Response by LCDR James Stossel made Aug 16 at 2021 8:41 PM

2021-08-16T20:41:36-04:00

1770s or 1860s. Terrifying but totally satisfying.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Aug 17 at 2021 5:00 AM

2021-08-17T05:00:53-04:00

The Army during the late 60s, early 70s. I'm kind of partial to my own time period.

Response by 1SG Lyle Miller made Aug 17 at 2021 8:58 AM

2021-08-17T08:58:41-04:00

I would serve the same twenty years over. For my MOS, it was an exciting time. ‘72-‘92.

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Aug 17 at 2021 10:58 AM

2021-08-17T10:58:38-04:00

I’m like everyone else here. What is going on in that picture? I guess it’s just the new military.

Response by SSG Dale London made Aug 17 at 2021 4:14 PM

2021-08-17T16:14:26-04:00

I would not change a thing. The 80's and 90's saw the rebuilding of the army and the end of the cold war. Heady stuff. I loved it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2021 7:41 PM

2021-08-17T19:41:46-04:00

When I was playing army as a kid I always imagined myself as a continental soldier during the Revolution.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Aug 17 at 2021 11:57 PM

2021-08-17T23:57:06-04:00

1990-1999. I saw a restoration of pride in serving after the crap Vietnam Vets (and I am one) were subjected to. I went the San Francisco eight times between 1966 and 1972 and will never visit that cesspool again.

Response by CSM Sal Simonetta Jr made Aug 18 at 2021 2:43 PM

2021-08-18T14:43:48-04:00

Oddly enough, I would still choose the 1980's. That's when the Army was in a very good transition period and I'm glad I was a part of it then.

Response by CPL Adam Schoenwald made Aug 18 at 2021 3:56 PM

2021-08-18T15:56:46-04:00

Honestly it wouldn't matter to me. Defending my country is in my family blood, I would sign up in any era

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2021 6:55 PM

2021-08-18T18:55:32-04:00

As a history graduate student, I ask myself that question every day. I hate everything about the 21st century. Mine would be the American Revolution, the Civil War, or WWII.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2021 8:24 PM

2021-08-18T20:24:40-04:00

My first thought was the American Revolution, but then it occurred to me that a large percentage of colonists were not in favor of separating from the King, and I am not sure I know enough about the reasons there were for settling the dispute over things like taxation without representation. So I would go with the War of 1812 when Britain attacked us, both directly and through Canada.

Response by PO1 Richard Wilson made Aug 18 at 2021 10:40 PM

2021-08-18T22:40:39-04:00

I would go back to the Nam where we did our duty and never got thanks for it. TF-116 PBR 535 It was the best and worse time of my Life and would do it all over again,

Response by Capt Rich Buckley made Aug 19 at 2021 8:03 AM

2021-08-19T08:03:53-04:00

Right now, right here, is one of this world’s greatest battles and greatest timeline moments. We are all in the epic battle of all time between powers of darkness and powers of harmony, love and light.
https://youtu.be/2xWVSYZCq4Y

TURN THE TIDE!!! JUDGMENT DAY APPROACHES new Majestic 12 Telegram posts global events

LAW OF WAR: THE STORM THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS playlisthttps://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSdLmbE8GEbZ9JDpmjY3ESAHLTnL8HKEEhttps://www.bitchute.com/play...

Response by A1C William Bennett made Aug 20 at 2021 3:15 AM

2021-08-20T03:15:28-04:00

If I had to choose again when to sign up for military service, I would still go into the service in 1972. I met a lot of great people and good friends, the one thing that I would change though is I would have made a career of the military.

Response by Amn Dennis Crotts made Aug 20 at 2021 5:07 AM

2021-08-20T05:07:31-04:00

Civil War if we knew then what we know now the out come may have been a bit different with less death and destruction on both sides.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2021 9:37 AM

2021-08-20T09:37:33-04:00

I wouldn’t change a thing.

Response by SGT Michael Overholt made Aug 20 at 2021 3:08 PM

2021-08-20T15:08:50-04:00

2000 on! I wouldn't change a thing. Well, other than getting hurt and having a medical.

Response by SSG Alan Pelletier made Aug 21 at 2021 8:30 PM

2021-08-21T20:30:41-04:00

WWII, somewhere in the European Theater

Response by SSgt Eric Owens made Aug 22 at 2021 6:34 PM

2021-08-22T18:34:12-04:00

The 1940's. I would have proudly served during WWII along side the greatest generation. Long before America's strength was weakened by politics and the evil left. You have a choice in life. You can stand and fight or live your life on your knees.

Response by LTC Orlando Illi made Aug 22 at 2021 9:15 PM

2021-08-22T21:15:58-04:00

1940's - I would like to have served as an Armored Cavalry Officer in World War 2

Response by SSG Mannix Brooks made Aug 23 at 2021 3:39 PM

2021-08-23T15:39:14-04:00

The best decade to me was the 80s a good mix of battle hardened Vietnam era vets and at the time new school Army that was getting better organized and more lethal. The Army that came out of the 80s is the one that kicked ass in Desert Storm but unfortunately that group is almost gone.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2021 7:08 PM

2021-08-23T19:08:19-04:00

I enjoyed my time in the Military. If I could I would have liked to serve with Washington to see American being formed.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2021 11:08 PM

2021-08-23T23:08:16-04:00

SSG Carlos Madden I really enjoyed my active duty time that spanned three Presidents: Reagan, Bush, Clinton. I love the fact that I went through the cold war, the fall of the wall, the Gulf War and the LA Riots. My decade is mid 80s - mid 90s. It fit me and I fit it. It was the end of wall-to-wall counseling, but there was so much more respect. The NCO was really coming back from the micromanagement and SGTs Time really was my favorite time of weekly training in the early 90s. I had some awesome NCO mentors and most crappy NCOs were kept busy in schools and off of the line. We also had amazing LTs and CWs. And the German Marksmanship badge was with German Weapons. I was shocked when I learned today they use U. S. Weapons. Makes the badge a cookie cutter award rather than a challenge. G3 with fixed sites, or the MG and a super lubed bi-pod. I shot gold, but the G3 was silver by one round [edit] so my badge is silver! Dang it!

Response by LTC Gary Bracht made Aug 24 at 2021 8:18 PM

2021-08-24T20:18:45-04:00

Tough question...but I think the the 1980s were good to me, was past the trauma of Vietnam and was able to do lots of things that we pushing the envelope for that time frame...commanded an airborne rifle company in Alaska in the early 80s...lots of live fire exercises and the state was our sandbox.

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Aug 25 at 2021 2:11 PM

2021-08-25T14:11:19-04:00

Given the choice, I'd like to go back to the Army of the period 1985 to 1995. During my service, as I have looked back at it, those were the years we were at our best -- most professional, best led, best people, best understanding of our role. Peak was probably just before the combination drawdown and ramp up for Desert Storm.

Response by CPT Manuel Ruelas made Aug 26 at 2021 2:15 PM

2021-08-26T14:15:34-04:00

The 60's. It would have been an honor to live and fight with our Brothers and Sisters from this era.

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Aug 29 at 2021 12:53 AM

2021-08-29T00:53:01-04:00

My favorite Uncle served in the U.S. Navy during WWII in the Pacific. If I could pick any time to serve - that would be the when and where. He was on Aircraft Carriers, but I would have loved PT Boats!

Response by 1LT Kathleen Heisler made Aug 30 at 2021 8:19 AM

2021-08-30T08:19:41-04:00

I think I would go back to the decade when all jobs were finally open to women, even though it took a long time for women to actually get there.

Response by Sgt(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2021 5:25 PM

2021-08-31T17:25:25-04:00

I'm going to go with now is a good time for me to serve. Space Force in 200 years doing interplanetary missions will be pretty nice.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2021 4:23 PM

2021-09-01T16:23:48-04:00

The 80's. All-volunteer military under President Reagan. GPS-enabled weapons and before CNN.

Response by Col Rebecca Lorraine made Sep 2 at 2021 1:54 PM

2021-09-02T13:54:55-04:00

As a woman I enlisted in 1975. It was tough being a female going through initial basic with all women, being segregated, having different standards and struggling to prove I was worthy. That fight continues, but I would want to become an astronaut. My dream is and was space. I would still be medical. I would be into flight medicine and long haul space travel. So, my time is really yet to come. Although, we do have a space station, we have not explored beyond lunar travel. Thanks for the thoughtful question!

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Sep 2 at 2021 4:51 PM

2021-09-02T16:51:35-04:00

the 60s, roaming around Korea and Vietnam doing soldier stuff

Response by 1LT Voyle Smith made Sep 2 at 2021 4:53 PM

2021-09-02T16:53:51-04:00

I would choose the 1960s, simply because it was the period during which I served and I learned how to survive in it.

Response by SSgt James Atkinson made Sep 4 at 2021 10:29 PM

2021-09-04T22:29:48-04:00

My choice would be to serve in the French-Indian War and then to serve in the Revolutionary War, and if I was still physically able to serve as an old man in the War of 1812.

My second choice would be to serve starting a few years before my first war and then during the Spanish American War (as an enlisted man), then college, then a commission, then World War I, then remain on active duty until World War Two, and then serve through the war, and remain on active duty until the required old-age retirement, at which time I would serve in a civilian capacity.

Response by SFC Gary Fox made Sep 5 at 2021 11:34 AM

2021-09-05T11:34:45-04:00

I served in from the 70s to 2010. If I could go back and pick a decade to serve in it would be 2001 to 2010.

Response by MAJ David Guyette made Sep 6 at 2021 10:47 AM

2021-09-06T10:47:43-04:00

My father served in the Battle of the Bulge. I would like to have experienced the Army he served in during the 1940's.

Response by PO3 Thomas O'Brien made Sep 9 at 2021 8:56 AM

2021-09-09T08:56:14-04:00

That's a tough one. There's so many. The time I was in, late 80's, was pretty good, I learned a lot and got to see a lot of the world. The military also wasn't bogged down by political correctness and we didn't need our hands held because we were treated like the adults we were. Anytime from about the early 1900's up until the early 90's would've been good. I definitely wouldn't want to have been in the navy before steam power. Or since I got out where it's turned into a nanny state.

Response by PO2 Christina "Jian" Phillips made Sep 12 at 2021 11:19 AM

2021-09-12T11:19:44-04:00

If I had to chose I would serve before women. As a female who suffered some of the worst side effects of mixed gender berthing I seriously believe like my father did women had no place on a ship or sub. Period. Decade chosen 1760s.

Response by SSG George Duncan made Sep 12 at 2021 2:49 PM

2021-09-12T14:49:11-04:00

1776

Response by PFC Michael Korach made Sep 14 at 2021 10:33 PM

2021-09-14T22:33:21-04:00

WWII European Theater Army

Response by COL Roxanne Arndt made Sep 15 at 2021 8:19 PM

2021-09-15T20:19:21-04:00

Being a nurse it's hard to say....I would have like to been a nurse during the Korean War or the Vietnam War......My experiences in Iraq were very fulfilling and I'm proud of my service but watching documentaries or reading it seems that those time would have been a great experience.

Response by SGT Lashaun Berry made Sep 15 at 2021 8:47 PM

2021-09-15T20:47:36-04:00

I would actually go back to 1999

Response by LTC Bill Koski made Sep 15 at 2021 9:48 PM

2021-09-15T21:48:24-04:00

From 1984 to 2016, like I just did. E-2 to O-5, I wouldn't trade it.

Response by TSgt Frank Harman made Sep 22 at 2021 5:21 PM

2021-09-22T17:21:28-04:00

The old West in the US Calvary...

Response by SPC Ophelia Moye made Sep 22 at 2021 7:11 PM

2021-09-22T19:11:26-04:00

Air Force, seems to be better opportunities. Army next!

Response by SPC Raymond Allen made Sep 23 at 2021 10:16 AM

2021-09-23T10:16:14-04:00

I wouldn't change when I served. It was fun in 1999! I was the Y2K compliance officer for the Command Group at USAREC.

Response by SPC Britanny Winnie Balthaser made Sep 23 at 2021 1:58 PM

2021-09-23T13:58:04-04:00

As a female that is a difficult question. But I honestly would have to go back to WWII '30s and 40's I think the morale and support the military had would have been very helpful and despite the hardships with that technology of the time I think it would have been a learning experience and be a connection with not only the people you worked with but with your country.

Response by PO3 Sidney Gaertner made Sep 23 at 2021 6:45 PM

2021-09-23T18:45:11-04:00

I would not change my time to serve, I met some really great people who I now call family. I can pick up the phone and call them anytime I want and it is like we never stopped talking the last time.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2021 12:48 AM

2021-10-17T00:48:45-04:00

1990 to 2003 is the time I would have loved. The Army was more relevant in war against terrorism but now everything is shitshow....

Response by SSG Donald H "Don" Bates made Oct 22 at 2021 5:31 PM

2021-10-22T17:31:18-04:00

I would have to go back to the 50's when things were much simpler. No cell phones, no computers, a united America, I am getting too old for a lot of the "stuff" of todayu.

Response by SN Virginia Johle made Oct 23 at 2021 9:55 AM

2021-10-23T09:55:05-04:00

The early 90s when I was in. The post-Desert Storm/pre-911 era was awesome.

Response by 1LT Murray Robinson made Oct 27 at 2021 4:08 PM

2021-10-27T16:08:21-04:00

For combat, I would like to go back and be in the 1/9 Cav and serve with John Stockton or the 11th ACR fighting against NVA regulars in the Central Highlands. I always wanted to fly gunships, but my eyes made sure I was a field artilleryman.

I would go back to a couple of decades. For the "old army" experience, probably back to the 1920s or 30s. That is when it was time when people stayed at the same rank for decades. Officers played polo and golf etc. That would be the "fun" choice just to see if all my old timer relative were right about the army back then.

Response by PO1 Robert Ryan made Oct 28 at 2021 6:52 PM

2021-10-28T18:52:02-04:00

I serveed in The Army fro March 1967 Through December 1977, In January 1979 I enlisted in the Navy reserve 3 months later i requested to transfer to Regular Navy. Between both Services I spent 22 years 3 months on avtive duty. To answer your question, I would serve once again from March 1969 to March of 1970. I was with Bravo Company 1/22 Infantry with the 4th ID, I would do it again not to go back to war. but to once again walk along side the brave soldiers I served with. As time passed I came to think of the as my heroes

Response by MSgt Earl Hinchey made Oct 28 at 2021 7:05 PM

2021-10-28T19:05:15-04:00

None. Each decade was different in someway, but all were bad in other ways.

Response by MAJ JohnK Wright, V made Oct 28 at 2021 8:47 PM

2021-10-28T20:47:44-04:00

1980's. Best 10 years of my Service (78-96).

Response by Sgt Donald Chalfy made Nov 1 at 2021 5:15 PM

2021-11-01T17:15:35-04:00

I would choose the 1940s, WWII, as a Marine machine gunner with the 1st Marine Division, 5th Marine Regiment, fighting in places like, Tarawa, Saipan, Iwo Jima, Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa.
I chose this period because, out of the Corps' adolescence in WWI, I believe the Marine Corps, grew up and into its own, making its bones in WWII and earning its rightful place in the as the fiercest, most respected fighting force in the world. To have been a small part of that generation, in that time, in those places and whether I lived or died, I would have served amongst the giants and heroes that are now household names and legends in the Marine Corps. WWII was a war we didn't want and yet, was worth fighting for every inch in both theaters.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Nov 2 at 2021 4:44 PM

2021-11-02T16:44:36-04:00

80's - Lots of money and plenty of people to do the job and we knew exactly who our enemy was...BUT I served in three decades and was one year into a fourth when I retired...LOVED EVERY ONE OF THEM!

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Nov 4 at 2021 6:26 PM

2021-11-04T18:26:01-04:00

1878 thru 1900...

Response by 1SG Nick Baker made Nov 6 at 2021 1:52 AM

2021-11-06T01:52:00-04:00

80's Europe, we lost a lot of great units since that time

Response by CPO Michael Sordelet made Nov 7 at 2021 10:31 AM

2021-11-07T10:31:34-05:00

As a history junky I love the idea, however I have to ask if I would go back in time with the knowledge I have now, or would I be completely starting over subject to the cultural mores and knowledge of that time period?

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Nov 12 at 2021 1:14 PM

2021-11-12T13:14:44-05:00

The 1940s, because back then we actually fought wars to win them and finished the job.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2021 9:18 PM

2021-11-16T21:18:35-05:00

I would serve in the 40’s. I always looked up to the men and women of that era. Our Country was United against a morally reprehensible foe.

Response by Jud Newborn made Nov 21 at 2021 5:31 AM

2021-11-21T05:31:26-05:00

I'd definitely go back to WWII, the Good War and the most meaningful battles of our time, fighting side-by-side with the Great Generation - and my Dad, if we could serve together, whether in the (Army-) Air Force or anywhere on the globe where needed. Except Alaska.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2021 7:28 AM

2021-12-04T07:28:00-05:00

probably just to the late 80's to fix what went wrong in my life and meet my Grand Uncle who was a Major General.

Response by PO2 Richard C. made Dec 11 at 2021 1:01 PM

2021-12-11T13:01:42-05:00

Call me crazy, but I would go back to the 1810's Navy and serve on the USS Constitution. We won the Revolutionary War but the British didn't really believe it until after the War of 1812, when "Old Ironsides" basically wreaked havoc with Britain's ships-of-the-line and other vessels. For the crew, there was glory in victory but it was NOT an easy life under sail and they all knew it going in. They did it anyway, and voluntarily. I've had the pleasure of touring the ship at its berth in the old Charlestown (MA) Shipyard several times. My 6'1" and 220+ pounds didn't go well with the low overheads below deck, but most of the crew back then were smaller.
A few years ago I went to Boston for her July 4 turnaround cruise in Boston Harbor.. She fired a 21 gun salute with her cannon at high noon and was answered from ashore. It is not usually done under sail, but I have to admit that this old sailor got a little misty-eyed right about then. Must have been smog.

Response by SSG John Bacon made Dec 15 at 2021 5:01 PM

2021-12-15T17:01:27-05:00

I would have joined the Army in 1991 instead of the Air Force. I was much more suited to the Army when I re-enlisted in 2003. but I was trying to make my Dad proud of me.

Response by SP5 Gary Hartman made Dec 19 at 2021 4:52 PM

2021-12-19T16:52:02-05:00

I served 3.5 years in the Army Security Agency and very thankful for the education and experience. The only way I would serve more is an iron clad agreement that I could say NO to just any assignments. Not fond of places like Shemya, Alaska; Thule, Greenland or any place in Ethiopia. Those were some of the choices besides Vietnam. Actually, Vietnam might not be so bad today!

Response by PFC Maxo Marc made Dec 24 at 2021 2:02 PM

2021-12-24T14:02:13-05:00

I’d want to serve during the Vietnam era.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2022 9:56 PM

2022-01-04T21:56:36-05:00

I’d invest into Bitcoin before enlisting lol.

Response by SPC Maurice Evans made Jan 9 at 2022 6:08 AM

2022-01-09T06:08:40-05:00

Revolutionary War and meet General Washington and be an officer in the meeting where General Washington refused to become a king. Communications would have been a lot different back then however LOL

Response by SGT Christiphor Ballestero made Jan 9 at 2022 11:05 AM

2022-01-09T11:05:50-05:00

I would go back to when it was skill in your mos and leadership that got you promoted instead of this "who you know and who you blow" political promotion system that's invaded even the lower ranks.

Response by SGT Alan Simmons made Jan 10 at 2022 11:17 AM

2022-01-10T11:17:44-05:00

I joined in 1989. My father retired in 1988 as a CSM and my plans were to make a career in the Navy until he and his brothers had the "we've been Army since 1763" talk with me. I would have made the Army a career until injuries while in the Army and a medical board during the Clinton administration's force reductions got hold of me.

With that said, chances are I would have served in any branch of this nation's armed forces during any era (past, present and future) simply because I believe that serving in the military is as much of a calling as being a doctor, a minister, a missionary, or anything else in life. I was called to serve my country. And if I am needed, even at 51 and with the service connected injuries and disabilities I have, I'll still be ready to stand with those who have taken the oath to defend this nation and our Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic.

(I know for some of you, you're thinking my answer is pretty cheesy - but it's how I feel) Anyway, when my dad was stationed in Hanau, Germany, AFRTS played this daily. It was one of the reasons I knew joining the military was something I wanted to do:
https://youtu.be/XRYg70HHkQs

Army: We Were There

U.S. Army motivational video, circa 1980

Response by Cpl Ronald S Wiemelt made Jan 25 at 2022 8:25 PM

2022-01-25T20:25:57-05:00

WWII RIGHT AT THE TIME OF D day

Response by SPC Greg Campbell made Feb 4 at 2022 7:44 PM

2022-02-04T19:44:06-05:00

If I had to do it again I'd wanna be right where I was in 80-83. Only thing I would change is keeping the hole between my nose and chin shut.

Response by CPT Earl George made Feb 5 at 2022 6:05 PM

2022-02-05T18:05:39-05:00

the 60's. I had a semester plus in when I turned 18 in 1968. With a draft number of 56, I was sure I was going into the service after college. I was enrolled in Army ROTC and planned on going in as a 2LT in 1971. my life centered around preparing for that day. It was much to my surprise in Feb 71 when we sat in ROTC class to make branch choice selection as well as first duty station to find out that not only were they not sending any new 2LT's to Vietnam, but instead of 2 years active duty, many of my classmates were only getting 3 months active duty. I had been offered a RA commission so I was getting at least 3 years active duty. I was ready to go to Vietnam. I had classmates that I would not have wanted to follow to the latrine.

Response by PO1 Sam Deel made Feb 5 at 2022 11:59 PM

2022-02-05T23:59:50-05:00

For me, that would be easy....the 1940s. When I was a boy, my neighborhood pals were all World War Two Veterans and Rosie the Riveters. I learned so much from them that they were an integral part of my upbringing. I have always belonged in the Greatest Generation. Then there is Texas Boy, Audie Murphy. We both come from the same Sabine River stock. Then there is my Dad (Army Air Corps) and my Uncle (Navy). I would be able to Serve with them. I have always been a World War Two History buff. The Military Tech and rapid advancement in research and development is just so intriguing. It was all slide rules and seat-of-the-pants. Just my style.

Response by CPL John Fournier made Feb 6 at 2022 3:43 PM

2022-02-06T15:43:18-05:00

1940 to 1945 The best generation ever

Response by MSG Reid Zohfeld made Feb 6 at 2022 7:33 PM

2022-02-06T19:33:56-05:00

I would go back to when I joined in 1976
Recruits where treated liked adults with responsibility in basic and I didn’t mind being called a maggot It was a drill sergeant endearing way of transforming us from civilian to soldiers
After 4 weeks we where able to go to the Em club for live music and 3.2 beer
When I hit my first duty station the Camaraderie was everywhere
Even though those where my best I still enjoyed the Army for 37 years and still miss it 9 years removed

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2022 12:02 AM

2022-02-07T00:02:57-05:00

Easy. 1770’s.

Response by Sgt Donald Liebzeit made Feb 8 at 2022 5:21 PM

2022-02-08T17:21:34-05:00

It's easy for me. The greatest generation. (WWII)
thanks for the question,

Response by SPC Ray Slayton made Feb 8 at 2022 7:31 PM

2022-02-08T19:31:31-05:00

The Vietnam era, at least we were civil, not like the rest of the country.

Response by SPC Ray Slayton made Feb 8 at 2022 7:33 PM

2022-02-08T19:33:43-05:00

The Vietnam Era when we were soldiers and not pawns of Critical Race Theory, didn't matter whether you were brown, black or blue. We were all treated the same.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2022 10:51 AM

2022-02-09T10:51:23-05:00

Back where it all started.

Response by Sgt Ivan Boatwright made Feb 10 at 2022 10:07 AM

2022-02-10T10:07:00-05:00

I would go back and join the Marines at the beginning at Tun tavern and serve for life. It would have been brutal, and there would have been no glory or benefits. However, I would have felt as if I accomplished something instead of how I feel about my service in Vietnam.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Feb 10 at 2022 1:30 PM

2022-02-10T13:30:25-05:00

The 90’s

Response by PO2 Roger Douglas made Feb 10 at 2022 9:12 PM

2022-02-10T21:12:08-05:00

I think I would have to say.. 1940-45... I would loved to have been on a destroyer in the north Atlantic..it might have been cold, hard work... but you could watch the liberty ships arrive in England and know you had made a difference..

Response by PO2 Rex Carter made Feb 11 at 2022 7:31 AM

2022-02-11T07:31:37-05:00

Navy

Response by PO2 Rex Carter made Feb 11 at 2022 7:34 AM

2022-02-11T07:34:24-05:00

Tin cần sailor life

Response by SPC EOTrees Myles made Feb 13 at 2022 3:58 PM

2022-02-13T15:58:22-05:00

I won't fall for this one, Lol, because I would remain in the same decade that I enlisted in. World war 1 couldn't have been for me because it just could not have. World war 2, is certainly a no, no too all because I would feel as though, I would be real;ly protecting this country for nothing . These are certainly my feelings and thoughts,

Response by SSG Michael Needham made Feb 14 at 2022 5:45 PM

2022-02-14T17:45:04-05:00

I liked My era early 70's , uniform was simple to maintain .Leadership had its collective shit together ( the fragging in Nam was weeding out the bad ones) and the NCO core was professional some were vets of Korean War and tours in Nam

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Feb 14 at 2022 6:28 PM

2022-02-14T18:28:25-05:00

The Greatest Generation. Why? Because at least then, the military was still the military and we did what we said we would do and we did not stop until the job was done.

Response by SFC Jose M. made Feb 16 at 2022 10:38 AM

2022-02-16T10:38:00-05:00

The 80's. I joined the army in 1984, I can talk about that decade and those of the present. Since they gave the stress card to the soldiers in Basic Training, the Army has not been the same. In the 80's the army troops were more disciplined and were more oriented to complete the mission without questioning their superiors.

Response by SP5 Ward Posey made Feb 16 at 2022 3:58 PM

2022-02-16T15:58:11-05:00

1940-1950.

Response by CPO Kurt Baschab made Feb 16 at 2022 4:33 PM

2022-02-16T16:33:34-05:00

I am Fine with the 3 decades I all ready served ,from 1984-2014, but If I could change just one or two thing, that would be stopping Admiral Yost Demand we become more like the United States Navy.
like many a crew members told him when he stopped by for questions with the crew, if we wanted to be like the navy, we would have Join the united States Navy.
then Towards the end of my Military Career, the Failure of the Chiefs Mess of stopping the Admirals Desire to make the Chiefs, More Like JO, With the Failure to Advance in a certain time frame, you are forced out, and the Admirals Desire to make Chiefs Mess more Like the ward Room. this was the Battle I was Fighting on my way out, but was Doomed to Fail without the support of the Command Master Chiefs.
with out there support it was doomed to fail, seeing how that position became a political Position, it was design to fail. from the very moment the Admirals told the command Master Chiefs it was a done deal. we no longer have a enlisted person that speaks for the enlisted men that position has been corrupted. so I am Glad I served when I did, glade I am out no that I am Out. Life Goes On.

Response by 1SG Jarvis Jenkins made Feb 18 at 2022 10:11 AM

2022-02-18T10:11:02-05:00

Probably The OD GREEN,Early 80's 90's

Response by SMSgt Michael Gleason made Feb 28 at 2022 11:04 AM

2022-02-28T11:04:51-05:00

For me, it would definitely be the 1980s. After the ignominy of being in uniform in the '60s and '70s, it was during President Reagan's term in office that I finally and actually felt proud to be out in the community in uniform! For example, I (in uniform) was following and elderly couple into a bank. The man turned and held the door open. I turned around to see for whom he was holding it, figuring that it was for someone behind me. There was NO one behind me - he was holding it for ME! I couldn't believe it! What a far cry from the "crowd reception" in the two previous decades!

Response by MAJ Karen Wall made Mar 2 at 2022 4:43 PM

2022-03-02T16:43:30-05:00

I always knew I would do something medical, and during the 80s, a show called China Beach came on and I somehow felt a visceral connection to the character of the RNs in Vietnam, and many times felt like I had been there in another life. That was the start of my need to be not just an RN, but an Army RN. To this day, I feel a pull to that time and war.

Response by SGT Richard Mitchell made Mar 14 at 2022 11:21 PM

2022-03-14T23:21:00-04:00

To come down to it, I am happy to have served when I did (1968-71). I had linguistic abilities in German and Russian. I served in Germany, which made use of my abilities. Maybe the period of time near the end and right after WWII would be my other option. There was a need to sort out a lot of information in that time period, too.

Response by SSG Ted Strachan made Mar 24 at 2022 3:37 PM

2022-03-24T15:37:34-04:00

I would have enlisted in 69-70. Would have chosen to do 1 tour in Vietnam, then posting in Germany for as much of the 70s-90s as possible- especially Berlin.

Response by MAJ Karen Wall made Mar 28 at 2022 11:45 AM

2022-03-28T11:45:58-04:00

Before I became an Army Nurse, I always felt a pull to the nurses in Viet Nam. I would watch shows and movies about them and would have a surreal feeling that I had been there. To this day, 30 years later, I still feel that pull and embrace anything that I see or hear about the Viet Nam nurses.

Response by PO1 William Bargar made Mar 31 at 2022 8:01 PM

2022-03-31T20:01:36-04:00

For the WORK HARD - PARTY HARD I would stay in my era! But the DRAW-DOWN to my era is SUPER SLOW PROMOTIONS! Now days, for what I observe promotions are far better. Awards are easier as well! I am a Federal Employee that works with Active Duty U.S. Navy

Response by SSG Damon Lucas made Apr 18 at 2022 8:32 PM

2022-04-18T20:32:25-04:00

Revolutionary War, just for history reasons

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made Apr 19 at 2022 11:09 AM

2022-04-19T11:09:23-04:00

It's been so long since I've ventured on RP. I would say WWII. I like the history of that era.

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made May 17 at 2022 10:59 AM

2022-05-17T10:59:57-04:00

I have always been intrigued by the history of WWII. Of all the wars we fought, WWII is the most I read up on. I like the history of all the armed forces that fought on two war fronts back in the early 1940s.

Response by MAJ Jim Hollingsworth made May 21 at 2022 12:12 AM

2022-05-21T00:12:39-04:00

I would have gladly deployed with Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders. He was an awesome leader.

Response by SFC R. Lee Linebarger made May 23 at 2022 11:21 AM

2022-05-23T11:21:31-04:00

40s 50s 60s.

Response by 1stSgt Daryl Allen made Jun 20 at 2022 11:51 PM

2022-06-20T23:51:59-04:00

I would stay within the same time period 1972-1992. May have made some other choices career wise but happy with what I did do.

Response by SFC Phillip Smith made Jun 23 at 2022 1:01 PM

2022-06-23T13:01:00-04:00

World War 2. I will go back to World War II for several reasons one: This is probably one of the last wars United States fought for a good given reason. 2nd: it is a time the Best American generation stepped up to the plate and served our country.

Response by SSG Ted Strachan made Jul 5 at 2022 11:34 PM

2022-07-05T23:34:05-04:00

2 decades. From '41 to '49, and from '64 to 73' Both WWII and Vietnam particularly interest me.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2022 5:26 PM

2022-07-27T17:26:05-04:00

1940s

Response by SGT Kevin Whaley made Jul 31 at 2022 6:46 PM

2022-07-31T18:46:28-04:00

WW2

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2022 11:07 PM

2022-09-11T23:07:03-04:00

Though I respect those who do and have served, I think I'd stick with when I chose to serve, or maybe a bit sooner. The military of today is looked down upon a lot by those who spent a good deal of time in it and those who've since retired for the many changes that have come along. I understand this as I've been in many a situation where I think in my head "SH!T like this wouldn't fly in XXXX date or even a few years ago." But I can also look at this and remember that the military many times enacts the changes which society adopts and is at the forefront of innovation while being disciplined and selfless. Now not everyone in the military embody these things, but sooner or later like a virus it is purged from the system. There are flaws, there are cringe moments but ultimately we are still doing what we do best and we're getting better by the day. The modern military has experienced more transitions in recent history than most prior eras have. We remain flexible, we adapt and then we overcome and complete the mission.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2022 11:04 PM

2022-09-13T23:04:07-04:00

I would serve in the same time frame I did (73-94) but would add about 4 or 5 years to my original start date, taking me back to the 68-69 time period. I always regretted not having served in Vietnam with most of my peers.

Response by TSgt Alejandro Cuervo made Sep 18 at 2022 2:03 PM

2022-09-18T14:03:20-04:00

If I was able to time travel, I would have like to served in the 30's-40's as aviation was being introduced. I would have loved to have been part of the early age in Naval Aviation.

Response by SPC Shannon (SHAE) Coy-Tozzo made Sep 30 at 2022 4:41 PM

2022-09-30T16:41:37-04:00

I enjoyed the era I was in.

Response by SSgt Luke Hunt made Oct 16 at 2022 6:59 PM

2022-10-16T18:59:57-04:00

I'd say post ww2. to get the world back into sync after a disastrous war. I like helping others and feel that I would have been able to provide some good help

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2022 12:04 AM

2022-10-17T00:04:25-04:00

Thanks for asking such an interesting question! As I thought about it, I didn't want to picture myself in a time of war because... war sucks. But, as I scrolled through the history of conflicts we have fought in, there's never a period longer than 5 years where we weren't doing something and fighting somebody. So, sign me up for the 1900-1910's as my first choice because it seemed like a peaceful decade, or 1990's to 2000 because a lot of people I admire served then, or my last choice would 1860-1870 because as much it pains me to imagine myself killing my fellow Americans in a civil war, I can think of no greater time where our country needed good Soldiers to fight and care for each other, to lead the country in it's darkest hours.

Response by SP5 Terri Bastedo made Nov 7 at 2022 12:06 AM

2022-11-07T00:06:59-05:00

I'd still serve when I did. No changes.

Response by PO1 Robert Ryan made Dec 20 at 2022 11:51 AM

2022-12-20T11:51:24-05:00

Without a doubt the Time I served. US ARMY March 27, 1967-December 17, 1977, Primary MOS 11B. Secondary MOS 95B. US Navy January 19798 Jube 1989. my Rate was Master at Arms. Retired E-6 (medically due to major orthopedic injury) was not able to go aboard ships again. I would do it again not to go to wear in Vietnam again, but to once more walk alongside and served with soldiers , and sailors I served with.

Response by SSG Alvin Amezquita made Jan 30 at 2023 10:38 PM

2023-01-30T22:38:25-05:00

WWII

Response by SGT Barry Labbe made Mar 31 at 2023 7:00 PM

2023-03-31T19:00:25-04:00

I just wish that I could go back to 1979 when my first tour was up and reenlist instead of getting out.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2023 9:29 PM

2023-06-01T21:29:18-04:00

I'd go back to my era in the late '90's, change my rate in the Navy and find some good leadership and mentors to help mold me into a 20-year career veteran. I had a terrible first tour and it just ruined me. I just wanted to hurry up, finish my time and get out. Crossing over into the AF after 9/11 was a great experience but I didn't stay in because I felt so disoriented and I had a hard time adjusting. I couldn't see myself serving 20 years, but I sure wish I could turn back and make a few smart moves knowing what I know now.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2023 7:36 AM

2023-06-29T07:36:15-04:00

So...do I have my current knowledge?! Seriously though, I would love to have served during WWII. I hold that generation very dear as they were made of different stuff.

Response by MAJ Scott Meehan made Jun 29 at 2023 8:56 PM

2023-06-29T20:56:56-04:00

Since I would not trade my 25-year experience for anything in the world, I would take the decade of the 80's, one of the ones in which I served.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2023 9:31 AM

2023-12-12T09:31:11-05:00

It may sound cliche', but I'd want to serve during WWII. The objectives were clear (and less political) and technology hadn't outpaced tactics (as in WWI). Of course, we're talking about the U.S. military, right? No way I'd want to fight on the eastern front, as a German or Russian. That was a meat grinder.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Feb 8 at 2024 1:49 AM

2024-02-08T01:49:06-05:00

1960 Things were more regimented and simpler from what I've seen and read now days.

Response by SSgt Stirling Rasmussen made Feb 20 at 2024 9:09 PM

2024-02-20T21:09:25-05:00

I would want to be part of the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2nd Division (Army) when they stopped the German advance on Paris at Les Mares Ferme on 2 - 3 June, 1918.
That is probably not the best of choices, however, because then I would have had to survive the 11 June attack into Belleau Wood, the July 18 attack toward Soissons, the action in September at Saint Mihiel, the 'Box' on 4 October at Blanc Mont when we would be taking fire from German machine guns from three sides, and finally the crossing of the Meuse under German machine gun and artillery fires in the battle of Meuse Argonne on the night of 10 November 1918, knowing that the war would end the next day. Most probably I wouldn't have made it through all of that.