Was there a specific event that morphed you from a veteran into a patriot?

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 14:01:56 -0400

Was it your oath at MEPs?
Was it graduating from bootcamp?
Was it being thanks by a random stranfer, for your service?
Was it going to war?
Was it seeing how we live compared to all other countries?

My point it is, I don't think many of us can clearly define that exact moment, it was insidious, unknown, slow, but it happened for me. Not when I earned my EGA, not when I graduated from Ranger School, or Dive School, and not even when I was discharged...it happened somewhere between services; 7-8 years in, perhaps when we were activated for a flood in N. NJ. Or activated to help sift through the ashes at Ground Zero.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2015 2:03 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 14:03:55 -0400

I felt an immense pride when the WTC were burning, that I was a part of something bigger than myself.

I felt immense pride seeing the Somali children so happy to see us, give them food and clean water.

Building a school in Honduras, training the Honduran military in advanced reconnaissance techniques.

Activated for Desert Storm.

Receiving my Honorable Discharge Certificate, and then re-enlisting in the Guard, 1 month later.

Response by TSgt Tim (lj) Littlejohn made Mar 17 at 2015 2:07 PM

TSgt Tim (lj) Littlejohn — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 14:07:31 -0400

going to war, Desert Storm.

Response by SSgt Tim Ricci made Mar 17 at 2015 4:04 PM

SSgt Tim Ricci — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 16:04:09 -0400

Its Kinda hard for me to PinPoint the the feeling of Patriotism for me! I do know it was when I was a Youngster in the Army. Our Unit was on Smokebomb Hill in Ft Bragg, the only Airborne unit in the Vicinity. The Company I was in was all just a bunch of Patriotic guys and the being able to train with the SF guys was also inspiring. So I will say as a young trooper was my inspiration! In the Early 80s

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2015 4:10 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 16:10:51 -0400

I don't consider myself a veteran by any means but the event that changed me happened way before I was able to comprehend the situation. 9/11 and previous wars/ conflicts where Ameirican blood has been shed has fueled my fire of passion to serve my country.