What would you tell your 20 year old self?

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 17:08:08 -0400

What would you tell your 20 year old self? For the benefit of the next generation of veterans, please share your wisdom and lessons learned.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 5:09 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 17:09:36 -0400

I wouldn't tell myself anything. Because if I changed anything in my past then I may not be where I am today. One of my biggest mistakes in life led me to meet my Wife with whom I now have two children. So, even though it may not be the fun answer, it is my truth. I am extremely happy with where I am in life right now and I made it here one mistake at a time.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Aug 23 at 2014 5:16 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 17:16:12 -0400

Take responsibility for your actions, like dad used to tell me. If you f*** up own up. Take your consequences and LEARN from them. Never make the same mistake twice, that simply proves how stupid you are, and stupid cannot be fixed. Like the wise man said "It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt." Something I did quite well as a 20 year old, removing all doubt that is.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Sep 2 at 2014 1:50 PM

SGT Richard H. — Tue, 02 Sep 2014 13:50:06 -0400

My 20 year old self was doing just fine. My 27 year old self, on the other hand...I would like to tell that guy to stay in!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2014 3:59 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Sep 2014 15:59:53 -0400

No change for me however with a couple minor..."no, don't do its". Next go round I would not marry my 1st Wife, I would not marry my 2nd Wife...there were a couple earth slamming airborne operations that I would have said, "No, not today" if I had it all to do over again. Including the Article 15s! Those were good causes and would do the same again and take the punishment for them. Though back in the 70s, they were not career enders like they are now. Back then, it almost seemed like you had to have one in order to get promoted! In my case, I guess I wanted to be doubly sure! All worked out in the end!

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Sep 2 at 2014 4:16 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Tue, 02 Sep 2014 16:16:27 -0400

Other then a couple "maybe I could have done THAT differently"....they wern't even really mistakes....just could have been done differently..... I guess 1 thing would have been to NOT have the 1 year break in service.... just helped me acrue another date in my service dates pile that do not add up like many people do! ;-) Overall, satisfied with my career run!

Response by SSG John Bacon made Sep 10 at 2014 2:12 PM

SSG John Bacon — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 14:12:47 -0400

I would have told my 18 year old self to have joined the Army in 1991 instead of the Air Force. I would have retired with 20 in 2011 instead of Medical Retirement with 12 in 2013.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Sep 10 at 2014 3:05 PM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 15:05:47 -0400

Well, my 20 year old self was only three years ago. But if I could tell my 15 year old self something, it'd be to actually study in school because it realllly would have helped me right around now.

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Sep 10 at 2014 7:37 PM

LTC Hillary Luton — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 19:37:24 -0400

Go to class and actually study. and when your little voice tells you to do something, listen to it.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Sep 16 at 2014 10:34 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 22:34:27 -0400

Dear Self,

Remember the dream you had ever since watching "War Games"? Yeah that one, about turning launch keys. Go Air Force you dumbass!

Sincerely,
Moi

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2014 12:55 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Sep 2014 00:55:56 -0400

I would tell my 21 year old self "stay active dummy" and my 44 year self go five more become 1st Sgt and have thirty and maybe get that next stripe.

Response by SSG Laureano Pabon made Sep 17 at 2014 12:57 AM

SSG Laureano Pabon — Wed, 17 Sep 2014 00:57:49 -0400

AAUUUUhhhhh SFC Mark Merino at 20 years old I had already reenlisted in the army for another 3 years.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Sep 17 at 2014 1:21 AM

Capt Jeff S. — Wed, 17 Sep 2014 01:21:04 -0400

Focus on developing yourself physically, spiritually, and mentally. Work out every day, go to church, go to school and/or take correspondence courses if you can, and apply yourself in your professional development. The club and your social life can wait. If you stay busy and focused you will reap the dividends later and will appreciate your sacrifice more.

I'm not advocating the total lack of a social life (because too much work and not enough play makes Johnny a verrrry dull boy), but rather emphasizing right priorities.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2014 4:20 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Sep 2014 04:20:44 -0400

I would tell my 20yr old self to stay active, don't settle for something out of fear of rocking the boat; be that marriage, career, etc., don't worry about what others think at the end of the day, if you can look at yourself in the mirror then all is good.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2014 1:46 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 13:46:57 -0400

My 20 YO self was doing just fine, I will leave him alone and let him continue doing his thing. My 25 YO self is another matter. That idiot needs to stop being self-righteous put up with a little BS, stay another 14 and have had a meaningful career.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2014 7:12 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 19:12:03 -0500

SPC James Mcneil, I say this with humility. My advice to my younger self would be this: "Remember what you did those last 30 years in the 'other world'? Well, do it again! Soldier on and keep soldiering on. Stay for about 30 years and then retire. I'll be you'll make CW5 before all is said and done."

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Nov 14 at 2014 7:59 PM

CMSgt James Nolan — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 19:59:20 -0500

The DI won't actually KILL anyone..

Response by CPL Rick Stasny made Nov 14 at 2014 11:08 PM

CPL Rick Stasny — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 23:08:00 -0500

Simple. The only thing I would say to myself......Stay in!

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Nov 15 at 2014 8:26 AM

PFC Zanie Young — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 08:26:59 -0500

Shoulda stuck with the Navy... yeah, right!

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 12:22 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 12:22:41 -0500

Life is about choices, so choose well! Remember, it is ALWAYS about the people; not what you say, but how you say it that will produce results; and finally -- treat ALL with courtesy and respect UNLESS they prove that it is not deserved/earned! Reputation is earned through your actions - positive or negative - and once labeled it is hard to change. Enjoy life - I certainly have.

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Nov 15 at 2014 1:25 PM

LTC Paul Heinlein — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 13:25:26 -0500

Invest in Apple and Microsoft!

Response by PO2 David Wagner made Nov 15 at 2014 1:43 PM

PO2 David Wagner — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 13:43:14 -0500

When I went in, it never occurred to me that the military might have made a great career. The day I arrived in boot camp I knew that I would be out in 1460 days. I had my mind made up to do service to my country and then get out. So I did my four and got out in 1967 as an E-5, but part of the reenlistment deal I was offered along with $10k for my critical rate was an immediate promotion to E-6.

In retrospect, I would have advised myself to at least give a military career a chance. I had enjoyed four years of great adventure, and made some life long friends. While I have had a pretty good civilian life, I will always wonder if I might have been better off retiring on 30 at age 47 with plenty of time to do something else. As things stand I am now 68 and still working, but I never considered a military career as an option.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 2:11 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 14:11:03 -0500

As my 20 yr old self, I was on my second deployment in Iraq, two things I would tell myself then, "No matter how much you LOVE your MK-19, it has zero practicality in urban terrain. Use your M249 dummy." And, "stop trying to sharp shoot decisions made by your leadership, they are telling you to do something for a reason."

I was such a pain back then. Grateful for the patience they had back then.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 2:20 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 14:20:54 -0500

Me to my 20 yr old self: "Don't be stupid you moron".

Response by SFC Josh Jackson made Nov 15 at 2014 2:34 PM

SFC Josh Jackson — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 14:34:12 -0500

I'd say "You turn out just fine. That being said, here's a list of people you should avoid like the plague."

Response by SPC Jack Hunt, JR made Nov 15 at 2014 2:38 PM

SPC Jack Hunt, JR — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 14:38:04 -0500

I tell myself to never start drinking, take advantage of all the opportunities available to me in the Army. I would also tell my younger self how to invest my money wisely.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Nov 15 at 2014 3:33 PM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 15:33:14 -0500

SFC Mark Merino , Self, "it's easy to be hard and hard to be smart."

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 3:52 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 15:52:11 -0500

I have thought about this many times, and even gave this wisdom to a few.

If you find yourself overseas or deployed, set up a savings account and send about half of your paycheck there. Give your access to a trusted family member and make sure that you don't have access to withdraw funds. (this can be done with joint accounts at some institutions).

If you do this over the span of a three year tour, you will have around $15-20K in savings. Much better then drinking your paycheck away. With the Army paying for pretty much everything (sure the food sucks!) you can easily still have fun (and even sample local cuisine because the food sucks) with half a paycheck.

Response by AN Brian Fast made Nov 15 at 2014 6:49 PM

AN Brian Fast — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 18:49:58 -0500

Take all the dets you can and pay attention

Response by SSG Ray McBride made Nov 17 at 2014 9:51 AM

SSG Ray McBride — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 09:51:35 -0500

I'm not sure how to answer. I have thought about this very thing often. I would like to think that I would tell myself to turn left instead of right, but where would I be then? All my decisions have led me to this place. Do I feel good about all of my decisions, no. But where would I be? Would I have met my wife, or would we still be together? If I never met my wife, I wouldn't have my two children. I could never undo that. And to that, my greatest advice to my children comes from my successes and my mistakes. What you may tell your 20 year old self should carry forward to what you do today. My past certainly has made me a better leader, father and husband.

Response by SN Jennifer M. made Nov 17 at 2014 9:59 AM

SN Jennifer M. — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 09:59:34 -0500

I would tell my 20 year old self to keep doing what you are doing.

Response by SFC Dave Joslin made Nov 17 at 2014 11:35 PM

SFC Dave Joslin — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 23:35:26 -0500

That Guinness and Jameson are a great combination.....and not to wait until my 30's to begin enjoying them!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2014 11:44 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 23:44:44 -0500

Ask more about what opportunities exist and don't just jump on the first thing that was open. If your heart is to be an officer, getting some time as enlisted may be helpful overall in leadership, but it is also a major ser back due to application uncertainties and bureaucracy.

And for me in particular. If you want to be apart of the "boots on ground" movement to make a difference....join the Army or Marines.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2014 11:59 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 23:59:24 -0500

I was fairly squared away as a 20 year old. I could tell him the decisions I made and how they worked out but I don't know if another choice would have been better or not.

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Nov 18 at 2014 12:19 AM

SFC Vernon McNabb — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 00:19:39 -0500

Don't get out and go Guard! Just stick it out, and things will get better. Oh, and study for the board now. They're gonna tell you a few days before, but you need to start now.

Response by PO1 John Pokrzywa made Nov 18 at 2014 1:14 AM

PO1 John Pokrzywa — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 01:14:48 -0500

There's Oh so many things. Mostly though, don't wait for other people to help you confirm what deep down in your gut, you already know. If you're not sure, you're sure. Oh, and the school leading Chief is going to sit on your Officer package until you miss the age gate, so you might as well learn to swim, finish your pilot's license and reassess.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Nov 18 at 2014 4:07 AM

Cpl Dennis F. — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 04:07:38 -0500

Buy Microsoft and Apple.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 7:30 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 07:30:24 -0500

Don't buy that car at 12% interest, I finally paid it off and when it was all said and done I could have bought almost 2 cars.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 9:47 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 09:47:41 -0500

I would need to go back to my 17 year old self...

Hey... It's you. Listen to your cousin Ricky. Join the Air Force. You won't regret it.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 10:45 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 10:45:02 -0500

I'd simply start singing ......"re-up, you're crazy....re-up, you're outta your mind"....hahaha

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 12:26 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 12:26:10 -0500

SFC Mark Merino. Trust your own judgement about people, places and organizations. Before you fall in love, agree to get married, and work hard to bring a new child into this world . . . be absolutely certain you know the two of you are compatible and want to grow old together. Remain focused . . . treat others as you would want to be treated . . . experience each moment . . . and do what you can do to make those around you feel safe, secure, healthy, happy, fulfilled, and comfortable. Warmest Regards, Sandy

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Nov 18 at 2014 12:42 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 12:42:24 -0500

That you in the title pic? God were we ever THAT young??

Response by PO2 Jon Van Dop made Nov 18 at 2014 12:53 PM

PO2 Jon Van Dop — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 12:53:12 -0500

1. Learn to work with your hands, not just your head. Liberal arts educations aren't all they're cracked up to be.
2. Finish what you start, even when it gets hard.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 2:12 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 14:12:25 -0500

I wish I knew what I knew now when I was an ROTC cadet and young reserve officer. I had self confidence issues. I would tell my younger self to be mysrlf try not to imitate others, use common sense, think outside the box and use youe sense of humor; dont take youself too seriously. I would also say to join Toastmasters. I did TM in my 30s. It cured me of my fear of public speaking; and taught me to speak coherently in one to one or grpups. It also developed my sense of humor! It helped me in and out of the military!

Response by Sgt Kyle Danning made Nov 18 at 2014 2:26 PM

Sgt Kyle Danning — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 14:26:18 -0500

Don't marry that girl!

*Had to say it twice because I commented on someone else's response.*

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Nov 18 at 2014 2:32 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 14:32:01 -0500

Don't call that girl...no, DON'T CALL HER! Don't talk to her, don't look at her, if you see her walking on the sidewalk, cross the road...never mind, you're too dumb to even listen to yourself.

At least I could try?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 2:33 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 14:33:31 -0500

Don't get a degree in criminal justice...get it in Nursing.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 2:33 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 14:33:35 -0500

Go back to college get a degree and commission in the army

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 3:12 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 15:12:37 -0500

I'd tell myself if you want to go see the world, learn another language go for it!!! You have nothing to be afraid. You don't know it yet, but you'd love rappelling off towers and if you get the chance to jump out of an airplane, you're going to want to keep doing it so that you can go to this school called HALO. Then people would really think you're crazy!!!

Response by SGT Karen Scott made Nov 18 at 2014 4:14 PM

SGT Karen Scott — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 16:14:55 -0500

I would say watch your back and follow your heart. You are volunteering because you love your Country, your family and our freedom. There are many of wonderful people that are serving in our Armed Forces however there are a few that are getting away with some horrible things. We do not have this corrected yet and there are few options for support. It will break your heart, but you remember why you started remember where you are from and all that you love. You are going to go through unmentionable occurrences that will be far greater than most will ever go through and experience. There will be corrupt, uncaring and unlawful individuals carrying out violent ill will actions coming from your own that your commanders will not hold them accountable that will possibly turn on you if you do the correct & right thing report the violent crimes that you will witness and hopefully do not have to experience like rape, intentional sabotage and intentional orchestrated harm. Not all are like this just remember why you joined, keep on point and stay close to brothers & sisters that respect you. Our Armed Forces allows criminals, rapist and some foreigners that are against America that has agenda to do US harm and are against you. You have to work with these people you are already in an unsafe place during conflict and or war time. There will be many times that you are going to be standing alone and you are left to do what is right. Back home there maybe many times that there will be no support, medical & services will be denied and having to wait lengthy waits to get help. Even maybe family will not be there for you. You made a decision with all your heart soul and mind to join to serve our Country and provide a way to keep US safe. Most back home doesn't even know what a Veteran is they do not understand what could happen to them if we didn't have our freedoms, but some do and they still will not sometimes not be there for you. Knowing all this I know you understand the importance, the responsibility and the great burden soldiers bear. I thank you for making this decision, even when it is confusing, because if it wasn't for you I may not be able to live. Thank you for serving our Country United States of America!!!

Response by SPC Richard White made Nov 18 at 2014 4:54 PM

SPC Richard White — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 16:54:26 -0500

Don't make the major mistake that you will do in 3 years

Response by CPL Robert Washington made Nov 18 at 2014 5:09 PM

CPL Robert Washington — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 17:09:50 -0500

The Army did not issue you a "Wife"!!! Now drop for thinking...

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Nov 18 at 2014 8:53 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 20:53:32 -0500

It is funny, we all wish to tell our 'younger' selves something. I have to agree with SSG Private RallyPoint Member. We are all who we are today because of the choices (good or bad) that were made in our younger years. Those decisions are what makes us who we are and where we are in life. Since I am not currently incarcerated, I would have to say that my poor choices were relatively okay. I have a great family. I am not dead, so my health is definitely better than some. I have food in my belly and I am extremely excited about starting the new chapter of my life, once my MEB is complete.

So I say love one another, give praise, don't be to judgmental and remember to help out our fellow Americans whenever you can! Then maybe you will never have to answer the question, 'what would you tell your 60 year old self"...

Response by LCpl Edward Howland made Nov 18 at 2014 9:11 PM

LCpl Edward Howland — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 21:11:26 -0500

You may not like being in the Corps now, but later on: you wouldn't trade the experience for all of the money in the world.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 10:32 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 22:32:26 -0500

Hey fatty, loose the weight it wont always be a bike test. Take your studies seriously, don't wait 15yrs to complete what you started. Since you are now on a diet, take some of that beer money and put it in the TSP (never had an annual return under 17%). It is awesome that you will get a reenlistment bonus, don't blow it on crap, consider my last point. Other than that keep it the same. Also not all Army guys are dicks and there are a lot of intelligent Marines that will put what you think you know to shame.

Response by SPC Daniel Edwards made Nov 18 at 2014 10:32 PM

SPC Daniel Edwards — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 22:32:08 -0500

Don't date that girl. She will end up wasting the next 6 1/2 years. Go ahead and sign up for the military. You are going to do it anyways.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2014 10:53 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 22:53:54 -0500

Ummm, It's the economy stupid??? lol

Response by SGT Artiesa Woods made Nov 19 at 2014 1:36 AM

SGT Artiesa Woods — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 01:36:38 -0500

I would tell myself to avoid alcohol when I turned 21 and instead do correspondence courses and study for the promotion board...I was a borderline alcoholic before and after deployment and I probably would've gone well beyond SGT had I focused more on that than alcohol...

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 6:06 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 06:06:45 -0500

DONT CHANGE ONE THING!. i dont live with regrets. all of my biggest heart breaks have given me the greatest gifts. i tend to think the butterfly effect will occur. if i change one ripple in the past, i wouldnt be as fortunate as i am now. i am blessed to be alive, to have a family, to have my family in arms.

lets end with the bad guy affirmation... "Im bad, and that's good, i'll never be good, and that's not bad, there's no one i'd rather be, than me" LOL

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 7:18 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 07:18:44 -0500

Ignore the goat.....

Response by CSM David Heidke made Nov 19 at 2014 9:55 AM

CSM David Heidke — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 09:55:47 -0500

Sell everything you own and buy Apple stock!

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 10:50 AM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 10:50:58 -0500

SFC Merino...."Self: What have you done to yourself? Certainly you have self-improved. But you didn't do it by yourself!"

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Nov 19 at 2014 12:26 PM

CW5 Sam R. Baker — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 12:26:29 -0500

To join the military earlier! I was 24 when I made the jump..........

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 1:07 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 13:07:57 -0500

Go get that vasectomy, NOW!

Response by SGT Gabriel G. made Nov 19 at 2014 1:26 PM

SGT Gabriel G. — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 13:26:52 -0500

Do not extend your enlistment! You'll still make E-5, I promise!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 1:49 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 13:49:30 -0500

Life life and take each day as it comes!

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 2:36 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 14:36:35 -0500

Don't blow your money on everything you have ever wanted. Start your TSP right now.

Response by LT Clint Davis made Nov 19 at 2014 3:37 PM

LT Clint Davis — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 15:37:07 -0500

I would tell myself to have a tall cold glass of "shut the F*ck up!" not only did I not know everything (as I was sure that I did at the time), I actually couldn't possibly know how ignrorant I actually was. Everyone else was not to blame for my misfortunes and it would not be for some time later that I had figured out how liberating it was to be accountable for my actions, even the bad ones. I would also probably clue myself in on the concept that working at ways to get out of work is often more labor intensive then just working hard in the first place.

The reality is, we can't go back and tell our younger self these things. Life teaches each of us these lessons at different speeds. Some may never learn them at all. I also agree with SSG Slover in that everything, good and bad, provide us with the sum totals of our lives and experiences such as wives and children. A sword can never be realized until someone beats the shit out of an ingot of iron!

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Nov 19 at 2014 3:48 PM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 15:48:25 -0500

"Join the Army now...you'll have less catch-up PT to do at Basic!"

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 4:19 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 16:19:56 -0500

Save your money!

Response by Spc 1 J W. made Nov 19 at 2014 9:14 PM

Spc 1 J W. — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 21:14:56 -0500

Save more, spend less.

Response by SFC Melker Johansson made Nov 19 at 2014 9:54 PM

SFC Melker Johansson — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 21:54:35 -0500

I would save myself a lot of grief and years of frustration by saying: "You're Autistic."

Response by MSG John Melville made Nov 19 at 2014 10:28 PM

MSG John Melville — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 22:28:57 -0500

Most of us were dumber than dirt privates, airmen baisics, or swabies when we enlisted. Knowing what I know now, I would have made better decisions. This is what I have for the younger guys.

1. Set your mind to be the best at anything you do and find opportonuties for personal and professional growth. I strongly urge young people to make the time to go to school.

2. Find yourself an NCO mentor to help guide your career. Old crusty NCOs know how systems work.

3. Marriage. Marry a camp follower and stay away from momma's boys and daddy's girls who want to run home everytime you go to the field. I do not encourage marriage to anyone that you could not trust with a power of attorney.

4. Most military people develop medicla problems over time. As leaders, we tend to suck up our pain. However, I suggest that anyone thinking about filing a VA claim for disability to insure that their ailments are reflected in treatment records for their last two years of service. Report everything on your retirement or separation physical. Make at least two copies of your medical records, as your medical file again after separation.
It is very difficulty to be awarded a disability for any ailment that was not located in your medical file.

5. I recommend that career people start preparing for retirment five years before separation. Look at the job market, catch up on your education, put out network feelers and determine where you want to live. Be prepared to move to where the jobs are.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 10:41 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 22:41:51 -0500

I'd tell my 20 year old self, keep up the hard work and working towards your goals. like SSG Private RallyPoint Member said...if I changed anything, I wouldn't be the person I am today.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Nov 19 at 2014 11:43 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 23:43:17 -0500

Stop in Texas and visit Bill West on the way home from Vietnam, you will never know how the years fly by, and will wish that you had.

Response by SSG Louis Marucci made Nov 19 at 2014 11:47 PM

SSG Louis Marucci — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 23:47:18 -0500

In my era, those in the military were labeled as baby killers and psychos by our peers and the WW II and Korean War vets didn't consider us as really having served in a war. If I could council myself, I'd advise a 20 year old me to ignore the views who hadn't walked a mile in my shoes (boots), keep my options open and stay in. Great question by SFC Merino.

Response by SSG Leonard J W. made Nov 20 at 2014 1:53 AM

SSG Leonard J W. — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 01:53:54 -0500

Aside from the truth of different decisions causing different consequences and ultimately different people, I would tell myself to go Active Duty earlier than I did. I would have been closer to retirement! I also would have told myself, as mentioned somewhere else in this discussion, to make wiser money decisions. Also, being Active Duty earlier probably would have gotten me promoted before my MOS became overstrength...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 6:58 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 06:58:27 -0500

First and foremost, College, College, College! Second I would tell my 20 year old self to save and invest. Money is tight all over and if I had saved when it wasn't instead of drinking it all away and partying as hard as I did, it wouldn't be so tight now! Professionally I would tell myself to look for those leadership opportunities early instead of waiting for them to come along and be given.

Response by MSgt Roger Lalik made Nov 20 at 2014 11:33 AM

MSgt Roger Lalik — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 11:33:57 -0500

Interestingly for me. I arrived in Da Nang, RVN on my 20th birthday and back in the "World" on my 21st. Spent my entire 20th year in a combat zone. So what would I say to myself.... "We Gotta Get Out Of This Place!". Seemed to be the theme song

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxNEiZhpinY

Eric Burdon - The Animals - We Gotta Get Out Of This Place

This video seems to have disappeared. There is another version of this with a 50 second introduction here: www dot youtube dot com/watch?v=TpNWSW49IBM . But ...

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Nov 20 at 2014 11:41 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 11:41:37 -0500

It is so tempting to say that I wouldn't say as much as do something: Tie me down, smack me around, and say "Don't do it!" "Don't marry that girl! I don't care how hot you 'think' she is!" "Learn some patience!" "Be more political!" "Don't bully your superior officers, you idiot!"

Ah, how much different things might have been. How much heartache could have be avoided. How I might have enjoyed a longer, more successful career in the Army. (Yes, there is a measure of regret in being riffed because I was an asshole regardless of how many missions I completed successfully.)

Still, my wife and I have discussed this many times. Change one thing, any thing, in my life and I wouldn't be where I am today, and "here" is a mighty nice place to be.

Thank God for unanswered prayers...

Response by SSgt B Mac made Nov 20 at 2014 11:42 AM

SSgt B Mac — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 11:42:51 -0500

Sometimes life is going to seem so difficult you just want to curl up into a ball and hide. Everything will work out.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 12:22 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 12:22:18 -0500

Dear Self,

Alright listen up dicknuts, take your time before you rush into doing stuff. Marriage can be a wonderful institution if you take your time to get to know your future spouse. It can also be great if you take the time to learn who you are first, because at 25 you will have an awakening which will be very life altering that you will be slightly unprepared to handle and at 30 you'll be divorced if you don't. Next, don't mess with flippin damn credit cards. If you want something really bad just save up your money for it. By the time you have saved up enough what you were originally saving for it will be irrelevant and you won't want it anymore. Now you have some extra duckets in your pocket. And lastly, you know those extra duckets that you got from not spending it on something really stupid, start investing it. Put it in TSP, or call Charles Schwab. Either way get it out of your hands and let your money start working for you.

Now for those of you reading this, my life is already pretty decent and I thank God for it the way it is. However, I know that there have been a few missteps on my part that could've saved me a lot of headache and heartache if I only knew then what I know now. But hey, what can you say.......#theinnocenceofyouth

Response by CPO Greg Frazho made Nov 20 at 2014 12:52 PM

CPO Greg Frazho — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 12:52:23 -0500

"Keep your mouth shut, dumb shit!"

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 12:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 12:59:02 -0500

90 percent of the people you meet will not understand 90 percent of your jokes.
The times you will get yourself in the worst trouble are the times you lose composure.
Don't sweat your marriage when it fails. The next one's way better, but you still have plenty of fun in both.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 1:28 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 13:28:25 -0500

i would try not to tell myself that it's me and just have a good big brother type conversation i really needed at that time. Also I would tell myself to stay away from detroit especially on OCT 5th 2010 where i was gunned down at a red light for my car ( took me nearly 3 years to be close to normal again).

Response by SSG Stephanie Hall made Nov 20 at 2014 2:05 PM

SSG Stephanie Hall — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 14:05:57 -0500

I could spend a lot of time wishing I didn't making some bad decisions. My bad decisions taught me lessons that makes me who I am today. I like who I am. I would tell my 20 year old year old self 2 things. 1) Tell your boyfriend Michael what's going on with you. 2) Invest your money. I worked for seven years on Wall Street and didn't start investing until I joined the military at 25 yrs old.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Nov 20 at 2014 3:04 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 15:04:33 -0500

Take the Master Chief up on his offer. Extend in Hawaii and Ride his Rocket Ship. Hawaii isn't that bad. (Actually I would do nothing different I would tell myself you will always make the right decision, It will not be career enhancing but you will always have your Pride).

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 4:08 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 16:08:31 -0500

I would have told myself to go out and party more... I was kind of a nerd and recluse in college.

Response by SFC Nikhil Kumra made Nov 20 at 2014 4:39 PM

SFC Nikhil Kumra — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 16:39:54 -0500

Save $$$!!!

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Nov 20 at 2014 5:06 PM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 17:06:00 -0500

"Finish up those degrees you're working on and add a little more education under your belt BEFORE it comes time to retire..." It seemed like it was so far away at the time, and it was really the last thing I was thinking about... Then next thing I knew? 26 years had passed! I did get some of my educational goals out of the way, but I really should have concentrated much more on my education!

Response by SGT Criss M. made Nov 20 at 2014 5:06 PM

SGT Criss M. — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 17:06:20 -0500

Don't go near that heathen she devil, much less marry her.

Response by PO2 Kimberly Miller made Nov 20 at 2014 5:17 PM

PO2 Kimberly Miller — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 17:17:38 -0500

Simple. Never give up. Life is hard, but it's those hard moments, when come to pass, that will make you stronger and full of a sense of self and accomplishment.

Response by MSgt Keith Hebert made Nov 20 at 2014 5:21 PM

MSgt Keith Hebert — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 17:21:38 -0500

work out work out work out work out and invest in apple

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 6:02 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 18:02:12 -0500

I would slap my "20yr old self & kick myself in the @$$" to stop myself from getting married to my first wife. I would have saved my self from getting discharged from the 82nd ABN DIV

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 6:45 PM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 18:45:42 -0500

Take the blue pill—the story ends, you wake up in your bed and believe whatever you want to believe......That being said 20 was only 4 years ago not really anything i would change expect save more Deployment money!

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Nov 20 at 2014 8:11 PM

SGT Michael Glenn — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 20:11:34 -0500

Duck and roll left when coming out of that club on S Tacoma way...

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 9:28 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 21:28:26 -0500

Nothing. You couldn't tell that guy anything.

Response by SPC Donald Moore made Nov 21 at 2014 12:27 AM

SPC Donald Moore — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 00:27:56 -0500

I would tell myself to not marry the first wife and join the Army instead. Then extend PDA in Germany.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2014 7:56 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 07:56:55 -0500

Don't wait until you are 25 to enlist.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Nov 21 at 2014 9:13 AM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 09:13:30 -0500

Frankly, I don't think I would tell myself anything except to say, 'hang on tight, its going to be a bumpy ride!'
Every mistake led to eventual sucess in some way... loss of one marriage led to finding the perfect man for me... loss of our own child led to adoption of the children who needed us... the loss of my career gave me the option of being a stay at home mother for a while... so many bad things led to so much good, what could I possibly say to Me that could make things easier... not a damned thing, but there is one thing I'd do... I'd tell myself to appreciate those who really matter, because they are gone far too soon.

Response by LCpl Mark Eldridge made Nov 21 at 2014 10:42 AM

LCpl Mark Eldridge — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 10:42:41 -0500

You'll do just fine kid

Response by SPC Ryan Su made Nov 21 at 2014 11:17 AM

SPC Ryan Su — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 11:17:49 -0500

Don't get marry

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Nov 21 at 2014 11:46 AM

SGT Thomas Lucken — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 11:46:24 -0500

Funny you post this, my youngest of 2 sons turns 20 on Monday! Been 32 years since I turned 20! :-(

I turned 20 while patrolling the Korean DMZ! My oldest son turned 20 in Afghanistan, 2009....

Education is important! Is the only thing comes to mine! My sons have always been good about their education even the one who served 6 years in the Army! I blew it off!!!!!!

Response by SPC Andrew Gettler made Nov 21 at 2014 1:01 PM

SPC Andrew Gettler — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 13:01:55 -0500

I was left to choose between a relationship and continued service. I choose the relationship and less than a yr later it failed. So I would tell myself dreams aren't replaceable, friends come and go!

Response by SGT Kyle Taylor made Nov 21 at 2014 1:05 PM

SGT Kyle Taylor — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 13:05:14 -0500

Join now. Don't wait any-longer. I waited till i was almost 31. Could be getting ready to retire already.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2014 2:32 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 14:32:26 -0500

Stay in school - suck up the four years of college while you are younger. I would also so tell my 20 year old self to stay in the Air Force rather than get out after six years. Exercise more and lay off the unhealthy stuff. Retail management sucks - don't go down that road. Tell those you care about that you love them more often and listen to the "old folks" when they start to talk about D-Day, Bastogne, The Bulge, and Korea.

Response by SCPO Albert Lee Smith made Nov 21 at 2014 2:40 PM

SCPO Albert Lee Smith — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 14:40:59 -0500

Invest in Mocrosoft, AOL, Apple and Samsung.

Response by SFC Richard Graczyk made Nov 21 at 2014 5:06 PM

SFC Richard Graczyk — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 17:06:29 -0500

Stop working at as a Program Director for a radio station, its not getting you anywhere professionally and follow your grandfathers footsteps earlier. Do not wait until you are 27 to join the Army. Join now!!!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2014 8:36 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 20:36:26 -0500

Go to Ranger school much earlier. here I am 32 years old finally getting to attend. Also try to get stationed at at least one different post. But all in all I wouldn't trade the ride Ive had for anything. I met and worked with some of the nations best.

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2014 9:35 PM

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 21:35:26 -0500

I'd tell myself that the Saints will win the Super Bowl in 2009, the Packers in 2010, then the Giants, Ravens, and Seahawks.......

.......and then hand myself a plane ticket to Vegas.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Nov 22 at 2014 6:34 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 06:34:30 -0500

Don't wait 4 years, enlist NOW. Youll never make it as a mechanic.

Response by SPC Michael Luna made Nov 22 at 2014 11:02 AM

SPC Michael Luna — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 11:02:21 -0500

I'd tell myself not to marry my first ex wife

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Nov 22 at 2014 12:16 PM

COL Vincent Stoneking — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 12:16:11 -0500

"She's not the one. Seriously. Yeah, I know... She's still not the one. Run. No. Now."

Response by SFC Royce Williams made Nov 22 at 2014 12:23 PM

SFC Royce Williams — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 12:23:00 -0500

There's a difference between being hard and being stupid. If your injured fix it quick. If your wrong apologize. If your not, fight for what's right for you and your Soldiers. If you don't learn something new everyday that day was wasted.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2014 7:43 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 19:43:42 -0500

Be true to yourself always and never allow weak leadership continue to lead.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2014 3:22 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 03:22:13 -0500

I would tell myself to shut up.....a lot.....i mean a lot.....my younger self had a severe problem with making sure I told people when they were wrong....regardless of rank......even when it wasn't the most opportune time. So for you younger guys if someone is wrong, let them know off line and respectfully but not in front of everyone.

Response by Sgt Wayne White made Nov 23 at 2014 10:28 AM

Sgt Wayne White — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 10:28:06 -0500

Wow. It looks like everyone on RallyPoint answered this question! Wondering how your life would be different if you changed a major decision early in your life is probably something most of us have thought about. For me it was my decision to leave the Air Force Academy near the end of the first year. I went in as enlisted, took the Academy test in Basic Training, trained to be a F-52 Tail Gunner, and got orders to attend the Air Force Academy Prep School after the Academy received my SAT scores and I had my entrance interview. The Master Sergeant in charge of my squadron at the Prep School did his best to make me quit, but my classmates rallied around me and I made it through. I still don't know why he chose to single me out for harassment, as I was serious, respectful and worked hard. When I started at the Academy, my Air Officer Commanding, the AOC of my squadron also gave me a hard time. At the end of the first semester, he gave me a D in military, even though I had the lowest demerits in the squadron, and I never got in any trouble. It was a huge disappointment, as it kept me out of the soaring program. I had good grades and was in 2 honors courses, so with the perspective of 35 years or so, the bad military score was not that big a deal. But it led me to conclude that I didn't want to spend a career in the military, because (as I thought at the time) you can't quit your job when you have the bad luck of being assigned to a bad boss. After I punched out, the Air Force returned me to enlisted status and made me a publications clerk. I traded my last year of active duty for 2 years in the reserves under the Palace Chase program, so I left active duty a year later. This experience led me to (literally) sit down and list my strongest skills and analyze the best course for my career. I finished college, went to graduate school, and then law school, straight through. I've had difficult (and even dishonest) bosses in the civilian world, but I have also had some incredible high points in my career that I wouldn't trade for anything. I tend to think that I made the right decision to leave the Air Force, but I often wonder what my life would have been like if I stayed and graduated from the Academy. In 2010 I got together with my two best friends from the Academy. We hadn't seen each other for 30 years, but it was like no time had passed at all. It was incredible seeing them again. While I don't regret leaving the Air Force, my time in the service was some of the best years of my life, and my classmates and fellow crew members were among the best people I've ever met. And serving as both enlisted and as a prospective officer has led me to respect people in all walks of life, because I know that good character is so much more important than how much education a person has. So now you know why I'm on RallyPoint.

Response by SSG Regina Golding made Nov 23 at 2014 1:39 PM

SSG Regina Golding — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 13:39:20 -0500

I would tell myself and every other 20 year old soldier to stop messing around and submit that Warrant Officer packet.

Response by SCPO Larry Knight Sr. made Nov 23 at 2014 5:45 PM

SCPO Larry Knight Sr. — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 17:45:04 -0500

Make sure that you got all your affairs in order and that your gear is ready, when we make it up around the next bend all shit is gonna hit the fan. So with that said welcome home to all who served in all theaters and were able to make it back home !

Response by SGT Javier Silva made Nov 24 at 2014 12:38 AM

SGT Javier Silva — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 00:38:41 -0500

There have been many things that I have come to realize that were mistakes that I have made when I was younger; however, there is nothing in this world that I would change. Those actions, whether deliberate or accidental, have led to where I am today. There are a few things that I would tell my younger self though.

1) Be patient. The military is all about the "hurry up and wait" mentality. There's a reason for this, you just haven't found it yet.
2) Listen to your Senior Leadership. They have a lot of information to pass. Listen, learn it & use it.
3) Take everything in stride.
4) Never forget where you're going or where you came from.

Response by SSG Everett Wilson made Nov 24 at 2014 6:17 AM

SSG Everett Wilson — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 06:17:31 -0500

I would have tell myself that I need to get some more College Classes and to leave the paperwork in the office. Jump on the chance to be an instructor when it was first offered.

Response by SGT Steve Oakes made Nov 24 at 2014 8:10 AM

SGT Steve Oakes — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 08:10:04 -0500

Use your down time to further your education. Drink less! Quit smoking.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Nov 24 at 2014 11:25 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 23:25:06 -0500

No matter what you put on your dream sheet, always remember it's a 'dream' sheet.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 3:41 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 03:41:09 -0500

Don't date girls named Nancy, wear a dang condom, and volunteer more...

Response by PO3 John Aldrich made Nov 25 at 2014 11:29 AM

PO3 John Aldrich — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 11:29:20 -0500

Stay in. 20 is a cake walk.

Response by MAJ Jeff Coulter made Nov 26 at 2014 12:03 PM

MAJ Jeff Coulter — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 12:03:24 -0500

The list is long but distinguished. Don't marry your high school sweetheart and don't take the REDUX bonus would probably top the list.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2014 6:29 AM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 06:29:01 -0500

20-yo Self: stop being so entitled. No one owes you anything, suck it up.

Response by CPO John Best made Dec 9 at 2014 8:18 AM

CPO John Best — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 08:18:48 -0500

Don't trust your " superiors" to acknowledge the outstanding job you're doing. Ensure your achievements are known by the entire chain of command and that you ( and not some sob) gets credit for it.

Response by CPO John Best made Dec 9 at 2014 8:17 AM

CPO John Best — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 08:17:33 -0500

Also duck! You might not have to use that damn cane if you moved a bit sooner.

Response by SrA Andrea West made Dec 9 at 2014 3:55 PM

SrA Andrea West — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 15:55:21 -0500

Don't be too big to ask for help. Yes, you might just need it.

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Dec 9 at 2014 4:08 PM

PO2 Corey Ferretti — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 16:08:37 -0500

There is not alot i would change like othere said i am the man i am today because of those. But i would:
- Wear your ear. pro Tinitus is a bitch
-Lift with your legs your back will thank you come at 30
-dont be tuff go to the doctors for your injuries. You will pay for it.

Response by SSG Louis Marucci made Dec 10 at 2014 1:07 PM

SSG Louis Marucci — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 13:07:56 -0500

To paraphrase what a great man once said, 'We were soldiers once .... and dumb'.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 10:39 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Dec 2014 22:39:03 -0500

I shoulda, woulda, and most defiantly coulda made a lot of better life choices…..but that's life brother, 4-6 ACS!

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Dec 28 at 2014 1:52 PM

1SG Harold Piet — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 13:52:39 -0500

Accept Jesus sooner, save more money, be easier on my family. Unfortunately at 17 I did the best I knew how and now have the scars to show for it. Because I was a slow learner, my family also has the scars from my bad decisions.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 1:57 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 13:57:42 -0500

Marry the girl you wanted to...stay active duty, retire at 39, become a doctor, and move away from siblings.

Response by SFC William "Bill" Moore made Dec 28 at 2014 2:26 PM

SFC William "Bill" Moore — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 14:26:42 -0500

Train, Train and Train some more! Go hard or go home.

Oh yeah, "No matter what she says, she is screwing around on you!"

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 3:09 PM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 15:09:39 -0500

Stop playing football before your body falls apart too early! And join ROTC before student loan debt gets out of control...

Easy choices there! But I never regret the path I chose

Response by SGT Andrew Chapman made Dec 29 at 2014 9:54 AM

SGT Andrew Chapman — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 09:54:01 -0500

I think one of the main things I would tell myself is to take care of my son, be careful cause small things can mess up your life (career). Work out and enjoy life, cause it goes by way to fast.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 1:56 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 13:56:54 -0500

Go to college and become an officer!

Response by SGT Chris Hill made Dec 29 at 2014 2:15 PM

SGT Chris Hill — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 14:15:36 -0500

Join the army now, and when you do, focus on self improvement and don't fight anyone unless you have to (to prevent the demotions). Focus on college when you're overseas and MOST importantly, don't be selfish and do not only look out for yourself.

Took me far too long to learn all this

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 2:35 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 14:35:42 -0500

"Take the Blue Pill......You don't want to see how far the rabbit hole goes!!"
My 20yr old self would of understood....lol

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jan 18 at 2015 5:57 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Sun, 18 Jan 2015 17:57:11 -0500

Stay in SCHOOL! LISTEN to your parents? STFU because I would be interrupting myself and last but not least- INVEST in this list of investments. Return to current time and bam, I am so rich.

Response by PVT Dominique Stewart made Jan 19 at 2015 6:41 AM

PVT Dominique Stewart — Mon, 19 Jan 2015 06:41:31 -0500

"Do good in Iraq and reclass to Broadcast Specialist! Do 20 years and retire!"

Response by SPC Billie Burgess made Jan 25 at 2015 6:35 PM

SPC Billie Burgess — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 18:35:41 -0500

I would tell myself he is an ass, don't have a second child with him and go into the service now!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 11:30 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 11:30:53 -0500

I'd say self, "Don't waiver when trusting your intuition. Pick battles worth fighting for, even when losing the most likely outcome. A situation is only as bad as you make it. You're doing great things and will continue to achieve as long as you apply yourself fully. Don't sign the Declination of Continued Service Statement, you're going to be a career guy, just accept it. Lastly, take advantage of the Thrift Savings Plan. Tracking? HOAH!"

Guess I've learned a little wisdom in 7 years.

Great question, SFC Mark Merino!

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Feb 24 at 2015 9:39 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Tue, 24 Feb 2015 21:39:49 -0500

Get off your sweet spot at Ft Knox and go Airborne!

Find a mentor, I knew some unmarried E-6s & E-7s ( who lived in the barracks where I did). I don't recall being stupid enough to decline career advice.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Feb 24 at 2015 10:43 PM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 24 Feb 2015 22:43:09 -0500

Listen to SFC Young.... It worked in 1981 and it would work again today.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Feb 24 at 2015 11:21 PM

SFC Collin McMillion — Tue, 24 Feb 2015 23:21:45 -0500

I would have to tell myself, don't worry about your assistance, keep your head down. A bullet in the button gets you sent home, one in the head put you in a body bag.

Response by PO1 Ken Johnson made Feb 25 at 2015 8:04 AM

PO1 Ken Johnson — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 08:04:41 -0500

"You think you have all the answers.... you have got it all figured out... but if you would take ten seconds and listen to all of those 'dumb old farts' around you, and then learn from their mistakes, you would save yourself a whole lot of pain and agony!"

Response by SGT James Elphick made Feb 27 at 2015 3:02 PM

SGT James Elphick — Fri, 27 Feb 2015 15:02:22 -0500

I probably would tell my 20 year old self to re-enlist for a duty station in Europe or to go Green to Gold. However, if I did that I would not meet my wife but at the time it would have been sound advice.

Response by SGT Joe Sabedra made Feb 27 at 2015 3:04 PM

SGT Joe Sabedra — Fri, 27 Feb 2015 15:04:15 -0500

What others had already told me.
Do what your told and work hard at it and you will go far.

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2015 3:07 PM

MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Feb 2015 15:07:55 -0500

The winning lotto numbers for next week are....

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2015 4:43 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Mar 2015 04:43:58 -0500

Enroll in correspondence courses, get some college and re-enlist. You'll thank me later.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2015 2:29 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Mar 2015 14:29:49 -0500

I'd tell myself buckle up it's gonna be one helluva ride!

Response by Cpl Michael Strickler made Mar 6 at 2015 12:42 PM

Cpl Michael Strickler — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 12:42:22 -0500

While I would be tempted to I do not know if I actually would. Our mistakes define who we are and other than my lack of income compared to debts I owe I am happy with my life. Sure I have messed up, but not making those mistakes might cause me to have a different outlook/attitude/etc.

It is tough looking back at some of the dumb stuff I have done, said, or witnessed... but I think I would leave my past alone...

...except each year I hold out hope for the Carolina Panthers to win the Super Bowl... I would totally tell myself to forget it!

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Mar 6 at 2015 12:58 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 12:58:45 -0500

Joel Chambers (my first squad leader) gave me life changing advice that I continue to give to my Soldiers which is to invest in your financial freedom. While we only had the Savings Bonds back then, todays Service Members have a great opportunity to secure their financial independence through the Thrift Savings Plan.

My piece of advice would be to invest in your financial future, it is much more important than you could imagine, and worth much more than a new car or set of rims!

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Mar 6 at 2015 1:27 PM

SFC Collin McMillion — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 13:27:33 -0500

Do what you are told when you are told and how you are told to do it, and if you then have a complaint, take it through proper channels.

Response by CW2 Eric Scott made Mar 6 at 2015 3:27 PM

CW2 Eric Scott — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 15:27:32 -0500

Drink water. Take a knee. Face out.

Response by SSgt Stevan Auldridge made Mar 14 at 2015 12:55 PM

SSgt Stevan Auldridge — Sat, 14 Mar 2015 12:55:37 -0400

Lottery numbers

Response by PO2 Johnathan Kerns made May 7 at 2015 9:41 AM

PO2 Johnathan Kerns — Thu, 07 May 2015 09:41:15 -0400

Don't marry that (expletive) run far far away :))

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 1 at 2015 1:17 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 13:17:55 -0400

Stop being so damn anxious.

Response by SFC Michael Jackson, MBA made Jul 1 at 2015 2:12 PM

SFC Michael Jackson, MBA — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 14:12:31 -0400

Quit wasting money, and invest it in the market! A path of life I've changed, but starting would have made a huge difference.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jul 1 at 2015 3:08 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 15:08:29 -0400

I would say to myself, "Self, pay attention to the following list:"
- When you get to the right Woman, you will know. Don't get too crazy on the others.
- When you come on active duty with no wife, no kids, and one car payment, SAVE your money. A little now will go far later
- USPA IRA (1st Command) is a racket, trust your instincts
- Body for Life works
- Lean muscle mass and pull ups
- One day, a MAJ will ask you to recover a 5ton Wrecker in the middle of the night in a TOW range fan. It will be hairy. DON'T DO IT.
- Beer will not become extinct. Pace your self. Each one is two slices of bread.
- Do not run hungover, you will tear things.
- Let go of the obstacle and try again
- Your instincts were pretty good on just about everything else.

Response by SPC David Hannaman made Jul 1 at 2015 4:35 PM

SPC David Hannaman — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 16:35:05 -0400

"Keep it in your pants."

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 1 at 2015 7:51 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 19:51:54 -0400

Go out an buy a lottery ticket with the following numbers...

Response by SPC Chris Early made Jul 1 at 2015 9:34 PM

SPC Chris Early — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 21:34:45 -0400

get as much schooling as i could, dont party to much, and prepare for my future

Response by SFC Scott Crouch made Jul 2 at 2015 6:41 AM

SFC Scott Crouch — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 06:41:57 -0400

Reenlist earlier rather than later!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 11 at 2015 3:39 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 11 Jul 2015 15:39:09 -0400

Time to go back to college.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2015 3:45 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Jul 2015 15:45:55 -0400

If i could go forward two years id say, focus on college more.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2015 8:17 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Jul 2015 20:17:49 -0400

Don't make rash or sudden decisions. Sleep on it. Weigh the pro's & con's. Then make that decision and stick to it. Start saving Now.

Response by CMSgt John Momaney made Jul 12 at 2015 3:36 AM

CMSgt John Momaney — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 03:36:33 -0400

I would tell my self to spend more time with my family. After 26 years in the military and 23 years in civilian employment as an Executives once I retired I realized how little time I spent with them. When I look at vacation picture I am not in any. I lost a son in 2011 and regretted realized this.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 12 at 2015 1:42 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 13:42:35 -0400

Enjoy your life.

Response by PFC Scott Grow made Jul 12 at 2015 2:46 PM

PFC Scott Grow — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 14:46:39 -0400

Enjoy every minute.

Response by PFC Scott Grow made Jul 12 at 2015 2:50 PM

PFC Scott Grow — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 14:50:41 -0400

Enjoy every minute.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jul 12 at 2015 5:16 PM

LTC Bink Romanick — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 17:16:46 -0400

Do your best in whatever job that you're given, try not to bitch, keep positiv; achieve, achieve, achieve. If you're going to be a career soldier enjoy every minute that you cann, it goes way too fast,

Response by PO2 Joan Feledy made Jul 14 at 2015 12:55 PM

PO2 Joan Feledy — Tue, 14 Jul 2015 12:55:03 -0400

I don't think I would tell my 20 year old self anything either. I was too busy enjoying life and living it hard and it got me to the military at 30, where I was ready to settle some. At 30 though I went in with the mindset that people younger than me were going to be my boss and tell me what to do and shit and that I was going to be shit on a lot and ran with it and did the best I could and excelled and loved bootcamp and the Navy. Could have never done that at 20.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 28 at 2015 9:21 AM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 09:21:01 -0400

The suck will eventually end.

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Jan 5 at 2016 4:08 PM

SFC Pete Kain — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 16:08:30 -0500

Cars are temporary, P.C.S. is a constant, savings come in handy. Even coming from myself.....not sure I would listen. Ahhh the arrogance of youth.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2016 4:35 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 16:35:12 -0500

It was too late when I turned 20, but backtrack to a few months prior, I would have told myself to take the waiting list and come in as a 68W. I love being 11B, but it was never really the job I wanted.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Jan 5 at 2016 6:02 PM

SSgt Terry P. — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 18:02:02 -0500

SFC Mark Merino Duck better?

Response by 1SG Nick Baker made Jan 5 at 2016 7:23 PM

1SG Nick Baker — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 19:23:10 -0500

Go to West Point prep

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 10:19 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 10:19:35 -0400

Go to the ROTC building at GSU. If I would have done that at that time I'd be a Captain.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2022 10:29 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 May 2022 22:29:15 -0400

Finish your degree before you hit 8 years and go to OCS. The money is waaaaaaaay better in the long run.