Guardian and sanick

[Nostalgic]

Hiya

Got the idea for this thread from the pic one.

As soilders what do you think your in Iraq and afgahnastan for?
I hear the news, the conspiricys, I would love to hear your point of view.

Thx

[misha666]

hhmmm i never thought of that before, like what kind of jobs or missions they were sent out there for.
Good thread Suz i hope they answer. I would be scared to do what they do. I can't even imagine leaving my country yet alone going to fight in another
if fighting is the case.

[Guardian7347]

Hiya

Got the idea for this thread from the pic one.

As soilders what do you think your in Iraq and afgahnastan for?
I hear the news, the conspiricys, I would love to hear your point of view.

Thx

Because they tell us to be there! lol

I can't presume to have all the answers as to why we are there, and neither can anyone else. Ultimately, it doesn't really matter what some politician thousands of miles away says the reason is either. When you look around at all the good we've managed to accomplish, then our stated purpose means very little. As for why I do it? Personally? All you have to do is look around over there to find a reason. The status for women in both countries has improved dramatically since our little incursion. They have a voice now. They can be educated now. They can hold jobs. They aren't beat to death for wandering outside without a male escort. The people love us. The only problem with that is while they love us, they fear the Taliban, and fear trumps love. They root for us, and help the Taliban in order to save themselves and their families. If we keep killing everyone who's willing to die for the cause, then eventually they will run out of volunteers! lol So...I guess my answer would be that I'm there to help improve the lives of others by removing those who wish to subdue them.

[misha666]

so are you guys on an adrenaline high most of the time?
how many people have you killed?

do u miss home?
have u ever freaked out whenu get back home?
Thanx for all that you do for us.

[Sanick]

THe truth of the matter is... We are told to be here, so we come here.

However, once we get here, we see things much different. THe Media only shows what sells.... and happiness doesnt sell on tv i supposed.

We have done so much good for these people, and the way of life for them. We have built schools, we have help rebuild their infrastructure, we've given hope to an oppressed people who lived in, and continue to live in fear on a daily basis. Since i have been here, i have recieved numerous handshakes and thank you's. The Children LOVE us because we provide security, that untill now, they havent had against enemies that only use them for their own self furthering goals. The Woman have a say now! They hold good jobs, and the men are begining to see them as equals! It is AMAZING to watch these people grow into a strong civilization! I've worked with IA and IP and yes, their system isnt perfect but they are learning and are gettingbetter!

Do i know if there is some secret motive why we are here? No, but i see the work we have done, and only wish the rest of the world could see it. It isawe inspiring, and impressive; Its building a relationship with this group of people and showing them we arent just for our rights or freedoms...But the rights and freedoms for everyone.

[misha666]

Sanick how old are you and how long have u been in the service?

have you ever gotten sick and need it medical attention ?

[Sanick]

so are you guys on an adrenaline high most of the time?
how many people have you killed?

do miss home?
have u ever freaked out whenu get back home?
Thanx for all that you do for us.

I dont know about other soldiers... But whenever i leave the wire, i get that rush of adrenaline.

As far as people i've killed, i'd really rather not boast or think about it. I dont enjoy having to kill another man... But i know he will kill me if given the chance. Its me or him... And i wont lose

Saying i Miss home is an understatement... lol

My first deployment was really rough for me... When i came home i never wanted to leave my house...my house was safe, and secure. Driving... HAHAHA i cant tell you how many times i almost got in an accident, or was stil in the "own the road" Mentality... 1500 in tickets and 2 court appearances my first 3 weeks i was allowed to drive due to moving violations.

I am 22, and been in the service almost 4 years now. I've been on 3 tours to Iraq.

Yes i have been injured in the line of duty. I was in the hospital for a while

[misha666]

I am 22, and been in the service almost 4 years now. I've been on 3 tours to Iraq.

omg your a baby !
If i was your mom i would be in tears all the time. well im not that old but im old enough to be your sister i guess lol. either way it must be really hard to be away.

Im selfish and would'nt want one of my kids to do it but u never know.
do you have a girl friend back home waiting for when u come back or no ?
what do say to your parents when u have to leave ? OMG i can't imagine.
do they pay your good for what you do ?

[Sanick]

I am 22, and been in the service almost 4 years now. I've been on 3 tours to Iraq.

omg your a baby !
If i was your mom i would be in tears all the time. well im not that old but im old enough to be your sister i guess lol. either way it must be really hard to be away.

Im selfish and would'nt want one of my kids to do it but u never know.
do you have a girl friend back home waiting for when u come back or no ?
what do say to your parents when u have to leave ? OMG i can't imagine.
do they pay your good for what you do ?

No girlfriend, and my parents bailed on me when i was 14 so i honestly wouldnt know.

Not really... I mean, its enough to pay the bills and have quite a bit saved up but if you look at numbers;
Average American makes 25-45 thousand a year.
Politicains make 250-400 thousand a year.

If my promotion goes through here soon i might make 40,000 this year on this deployment. So its an average salary i guess.

[Nostalgic]

Thx to both of you for sharing.

The salary is disappointing as your risking a lot.
Do you watch how the media portrays it and how do you feel about that?

[Sanick]

It is kind of frustrating that those who fight and die, get paid less then those who argue and debate in a room, with personal service, all you can eat food, and a 401k that surpasses myability to count

All i hear from the media is how many soldiers die each day, how unhappy America is with the war, and how the war is unjust or has hidden motives.

Did you know, that in America, you have a better chance of dying in a car wreck, then of being killed in Iraq? Did you also know that in the last 10 years we have been here... we have lost a 10th of the men that were killed in One day on the beaches for Normandy? It is Unfortunate that soldier perish in battle, but look at it! 4,000 approx~ in 10 years compared to 40,000 ish on normandy? Thats not even including the rest of the war.

American may be unhappy with this war, but go back in our history. The only wars we have lost, are when the media begins to turn against he war, which turns the public against the war, and in turn, turns the majority of the country AGAINST the soldiers, and the war cause. Does anyone both to look at what we do for this country? No, they are just pissed cuz their husbands, or boyfriends, or sons are in a country that the media shows as "soldier killing experts." We aren't loosing this war, we are loosing the will of our country to fight this war.

Is there a hidden motive for this war? I dont know, nor do i pretend to know. But i wouldnt change a damn thing about any of my deployments, because i've done good over here. WE'VE done good over here. I just wish everyone could see it as clearly as some of us can

[Guardian7347]

I hate the media. Like Sanick said, they aren't interested in telling the truth if the truth is pleasant or makes us look good. If you watch the news, you would think there was an ied on every street corner and a sniper on every rooftop. Sometimes I seriously consider the idea that the media would love nothing more than for us to fail. They spent so much energy predicting our utter failure, and what a quagmire Iraq would become that it cost them their credibility when we succeeded. Now if everything fell apart, they may be able to salvage an "I told you so" out of this situation and redeem themselves just a little bit.

[Guardian7347]

Is there a hidden motive for this war? I dont know, nor do i pretend to know. But i wouldnt change a damn thing about any of my deployments, because i've done good over here. WE'VE done good over here. I just wish everyone could see it as clearly as some of us can

I enjoy reading your posts! They sound a lot like my own have. I've fought this fight for many years on here. I don't know that I've ever really made a difference with what I've said, but maybe, just maybe, with someone else saying practically the same thing, people will finally start to believe it.
Not saying you ladies, but the forum in general.

[Sanick]

I hate the media. Like Sanick said, they aren't interested in telling the truth if the truth is pleasant or makes us look good. If you watch the news, you would think there was an ied on every street corner and a sniper on every rooftop. Sometimes I seriously consider the idea that the media would love nothing more than for us to fail. They spent so much energy predicting our utter failure, and what a quagmire Iraq would become that it cost them their credibility when we succeeded. Now if everything fell apart, they may be able to salvage an "I told you so" out of this situation and redeem themselves just a little bit.

Agreed 100%

[Nostalgic]

Well it's great to hear your views, you get soilders talking on tv but who knows what they are told to say etc.

I don't like the idea of war in general but sometimes it's needed I guess. If your doing great things for the people then it can only be good.

Do you get any of the locals not wanting you there?

[Sanick]

Eh... yes and no... i cant really explain on that one though... sorry

[Nostalgic]

Difficult to explain?

[Dorn]

I hate the media. Like Sanick said, they aren't interested in telling the truth if the truth is pleasant or makes us look good. If you watch the news, you would think there was an ied on every street corner and a sniper on every rooftop. Sometimes I seriously consider the idea that the media would love nothing more than for us to fail. They spent so much energy predicting our utter failure, and what a quagmire Iraq would become that it cost them their credibility when we succeeded. Now if everything fell apart, they may be able to salvage an "I told you so" out of this situation and redeem themselves just a little bit.

Agreed 100%

I couldn't agree more. The only source of info I rely on regarding the world's war zones is STRATFOR. It has an entirely different media format and is created and maintained by intelligence officers, analysts and experts.

And thank you both for your service. Our armed forces are the pride of our nation.

[Guardian7347]

Do you get any of the locals not wanting you there?

Eh... yes and no... i cant really explain on that one though... sorry

From my experience, it is a pretty complicated matter, and there is no straight answer. It kinda goes something like this(feel free to throw in your two cents if you feel differently sanick)...They DO want us there in a sense because we kinda represent the strength that made them free. Our tanks, our guns, our guys ran out a brutal, oppressive dictator who controlled their behavior through fear. Now they have much more control in their own futures, and this they appreciate very much. Many want us to remain there as a security force because they worry their own security forces aren't up to the challenge of holding it together once we leave. They're afraid the insurgents and extremists will rush in and overwhelm them. On the other hand, many DO want us to leave for very simple and obvious reasons. One, no one likes a foreign army on their soil, regardless of how benign their intentions may be. Two, the remaining insurgent force there still uses our presence to justify their behavior, so many of the general population feels we need to just move on now, in order for there to be peace. Three, as much as I hate to admit it, accidental deaths due to soldier's actions do happen from time to time, sometimes intel is wrong when we do a house raid, kicking in a door and scaring an otherwise innocent family. This sort of thing doesn't exactly endear us to the populace. Just sayin.

[Sanick]

I think you pretty much hit it spot on guardian.

Once we leave, I hope their Security Forces can hold everything together. I would hate to watch 10 years of hardwork from our soldiers, and the suffering of their familys go to waste...

If the Government back home, and the American people could just wait another 5 years (i know its a long time... but) I would bet this country could turn into one helluva good vacation spot... Its an Absolutely gorgeous Country... When you are within 35 miles of the rivers anyways

[Bubbydoll]

Props to all the soldiers for serving and protecting all of us, you do a wonderful job and sometimes people can come off thankless about it. My dad was in the navy, my uncle and cousins are also in the navy and my grandfather was in the army. For my own personal opinion I do not think we should still have troops over there, if the United States and other countries do not want to pull out of places there yet, fine but I wish my country would pull out now and save some of our young men and women's lives. Peace to you both and hope you come home safe from your tours.

[Nostalgic]

Thx guardian. I can see why some would want you to stay and some want you to leave.
There's no way I could do your guys jobs. You're both very brave. As bubbydoll said I too hope you both come home safely.

[Geist]

I have a friend planning to join the Navy soon,
a lot of people just act like "Peace not war." What they don't realize is if America backed down ,then the terrorists would step up. I think they (the soldiers) should be paid more for their service and be given more applause from the public.
It makes me mad how some of these kids I know act like "military, cool you get to shoot and take other lives." It is not that easy, it is no videogame it's real life and they don't understand the seriousness of it and how important it is, and how it has an impact on some of the soldiers. It's nothing like a hunting trip with Daddy its real work, takes real courage, and discipline.

Thank you for serving our country.

[misha666]

@geist i think i like u a little more now after reading your post. And I agree with you too.

Ok well i don't mean to sound ignorant but the goverment wastes so much money on keeping all the animals locked up in jail.
think about it, all the clothes, food, energy (light and gas) and paying guards and wepons (guns) to keep them locked in.
I would rather spend the money on paying our soldiers more for risking their lifes than supporting and feeding
criminals. I know criminals are in jail for our own safety and all that jazz but sometimes they live better then some people i know.
Anyway again thanx to the both of you for all that you do out there for us.

[Guardian7347]

Once we leave, I hope their Security Forces can hold everything together. I would hate to watch 10 years of hardwork from our soldiers, and the suffering of their familys go to waste...

If the Government back home, and the American people could just wait another 5 years (i know its a long time... but) I would bet this country could turn into one helluva good vacation spot... Its an Absolutely gorgeous Country... When you are within 35 miles of the rivers anyways

Completely agree. I really fear completely leaving too soon. I just feel like the bad guys are just waiting for it. I have to echo what you said, because it bears repeating. It would be extremely heart-breaking to see ten years of blood, sweat and tears, both the soldiers and their loved ones, be for naught if this whole thing collapses. Not to mention what it would do to future military-based humanitarian efforts. Right now, people are kind of back and forth about humanitarian missions accomplished through military efforts, but the apparent success in Iraq is why it has any positive support at all. If that fails, it will have zero support, and we will become weaker for it. Our will to fight for others freedom will be completely extinguished and we will allow people around the world to be brutalized and mistreated for no reason. All the while, we'll turn a blind eye and say "It isn't my problem". That's NOT MY America! Whereas other nations may be content to worry about what happens in their borders alone, we are supposed to be greater than that. We are supposed to be a beacon of hope and freedom. We are supposed to help the down-trodden. I hate seeing any group of people, in any nation, being systematically brutalized and annihilated simply because no one wants to step up and DO something! No one wants to say "Enough is enough!". I"ll get off my soapbox now. lol

You're right, that country could be a great tourist attraction. Just the historical value alone would make it an attractive destination. If I remember correctly, there's a babylonian zigurat(type of pyramid) down near...Basra?(Help me out Sanick...do you know?) Oddly enough, Saddam's spectre could help the tourism of the country. Open up his palaces for visitors, especially the rape palace in Baghdad. Every flat surface is marble. That place is GORGEOUS! The morbid curiosity would bring people in to visit though.

[Guardian7347]

Props to all the soldiers for serving and protecting all of us, you do a wonderful job and sometimes people can come off thankless about it. My dad was in the navy, my uncle and cousins are also in the navy and my grandfather was in the army. For my own personal opinion I do not think we should still have troops over there, if the United States and other countries do not want to pull out of places there yet, fine but I wish my country would pull out now and save some of our young men and women's lives. Peace to you both and hope you come home safe from your tours.

Thank you BD! I appreciate that.

I wish my country would pull out now and save some of our young men and women's lives.

Here's the catch though, and this is what everyone should keep in mind. We have a 100% VOLUNTEER military. That means every single person in the military, regardless of branch or rank, raised their right hand of their own free will, knowing full well the dangers inherent to this profession(especially those who've signed since 9/11), and said "I will fight". I can appreciate the desire to save as many lives as possible. I can get behind that idea 100%. But, and I know this sounds callous, if they die, they die. So long as we complete the mission and not pull out early or give up. We lose, and they die in vain if we do either of those two things, and that is not acceptable. At that point, their deaths become a tragedy, a wasted life. Don't rob the dead of their honor. Let us finish the job!

[Guardian7347]

Thx guardian. I can see why some would want you to stay and some want you to leave.
There's no way I could do your guys jobs. You're both very brave. As bubbydoll said I too hope you both come home safely.

Thanks Nos. lol There are times when you don't feel very brave! You feel pretty scared shitless to be honest. I know it's a job not everyone can do, but I personally don't feel like I do anything special most of the time. It's "just a job", albeit a very unique one! lol

[Guardian7347]

I have a friend planning to join the Navy soon,
a lot of people just act like "Peace not war." What they don't realize is if America backed down ,then the terrorists would step up. I think they (the soldiers) should be paid more for their service and be given more applause from the public.
It makes me mad how some of these kids I know act like "military, cool you get to shoot and take other lives." It is not that easy, it is no videogame it's real life and they don't understand the seriousness of it and how important it is, and how it has an impact on some of the soldiers. It's nothing like a hunting trip with Daddy its real work, takes real courage, and discipline.

Thank you for serving our country.

The concept of "peace not war" is commendable. It's a great ideal. The problem is, we do not live in an ideal world. What these people forget is that there are people in the world like Hitler, Stalin, Pol Pot, Saddam, and the Somalian warlords who will take advantage of people's desire for peace and run rampant in their own backyard, committing atrocities that would bring your lunch back up. If we do not practice war, then we practice ignorance and enabling of true evil in the world.

I can't speak for Sanick, but I get plenty of applause from the public. More than enough. I don't want praise, a parade, or a pat on the back (although if they want to buy me a beer that would be fantastic! ). I don't need it, and I think a lot of soldiers would agree with me. We don't do it for the praise or the pay...definately not the pay, but a thank you every once in a while is nice. That and maybe a little lenience and understanding. your finances can sometimes get pretty messed up, especially when you're on a deployment, and creditors will only give so much because of military service. They have no qualms with fucking you anyway. I've always been ok, a little tight sometimes, but ok. I have heard plenty of stories though of soldiers getting the royal ass-reaming.

yeah, Call of Duty doesn't begin to cover it. It's easy to snipe someone across the screen when they game auto-stabilizes for you. And of course, there is no "respawn point" in reality. Fatigue wears you down, and you only take one hit to die or be out of action most of the time. And that's just the mechanics of it all. That first kill shot is rarely celebrated. It messes with men. Good men. Manly men. Some make peace with it sooner than others, some just become numb to it via repitition, and some never do find a way to reconcile themselves with their actions. War really is hell, and only the very worst parts of hell get included. I like how Clint Eastwood put it in "Unforgiven", "It's a hell of a thing, killin a man. You take away all he is, and all he ever will be." 'nuff said Clint, nuff said.

[Guardian7347]

@geist i think i like u a little more now after reading your post. And I agree with you too.

Ok well i don't mean to sound ignorant but the goverment wastes so much money on keeping all the animals locked up in jail.
think about it, all the clothes, food, energy (light and gas) and paying guards and wepons (guns) to keep them locked in.
I would rather spend the money on paying our soldiers more for risking their lifes than supporting and feeding
criminals. I know criminals are in jail for our own safety and all that jazz but sometimes they live better then some people i know.
Anyway again thanx to the both of you for all that you do out there for us.

Thanks

[Sanick]

Basra is correct Guardian. So MANY places with palaces, or things of other historical value exist in this country. Its amazing

Second, Guardian you are also correct about the propaganda effect this would have on America's reputation if Iraq fails.
Also correct on the Volunteer thing.

Part of MY JOB in the military is to ensure freedom for all people no matter race, sex, religion. I Gladly would gladly pay the price for freedom with EVERY drop of my blood, every breath, and every heartbeat for ANYONE on this planet who desires freedom in ANY country. Because thats why i joined. To Ensure freedom, and a future for the Next Generation.

Ya, the whole not feelin brave thing is on point. I Damn near shit myself Earlier today and frackin wished i was cuddled up with my dog. Lol It happens.
"Courage is not about Not being Scared. Its about being Terrified, and knowing you can come into Harms way, and Still moving Forward"

[GirlOnFire]

Haha.

But, anyhow, what do you think the psychological effects are you on and or your fellow soldiers? As in when you arrive back home?

[JessicaBunny]

thank you both for your service to our country.

how many funerals of friends killed over there have you been to so far?

[Sanick]

Banks and Creditors are ruthless with soldiers, especially right after a deployment. Its rough. I've heard alot of soldiers coming home and geting raped by creditors and such. Its a shame that they take advantage of us like that. THere just isnt much you can do though against it, even as a veteran.

@GOF Whats with all the smiles and stuff? Thanks for kisses though

As Far as psycologic effects. PTSD is a bitch! I've struggled since my first deployment with flashbacks, and coming back from the "soldier mode". My First Deploment was really rough for me. I've seen soldiers who have it much worse then I, and at the same time, i've seen soldiers who aren't effected by being blown up or shot at. It is just how you Handle it as an individual soldier really.

[Sanick]

thank you both for your service to our country.

how many funerals of friends killed over there have you been to so far?

Too many...Way too many

[JessicaBunny]

must be hard to see the moms & dad's crying & distraught and know that could be your families too. . . if something bad happened to you over there.
do your mom's cry in front of you when you have to leave?

[Sanick]

Its Hard to stand there, and watch my friend's parents, and siblings cry, and moan his passing. I also know that it could be me at anytime. I'm not suicidal or anything, but sometimes i wish it could be me instead of them. I would take the bullet instead of them so they could come home to their young children, or new wives.

My mom isnt around. She Bailed on me when i was a teenager

[JessicaBunny]

that is good of you to say you wish it could be you instead, so they could watch their kids grow up . . .not good if you feel guilty that you lived and they didn't over you.
that was their fate.

when a serviceman or woman dies over there is the family back home compensated somehow for their loss?

[Sanick]

Ya, its called Servicemember Life insruance policy. the service member can choose anywhere from 50,000 to 750,000 dollars tax free for their family. Depending on their needs like if they are single, or if they have 8 kids or something... make sense?

At times i feel guilty... These guys die for me and everyone else who survives... we continue to feel that pain for a long time. EVen if we dont show it

[JessicaBunny]

i am pleased they have that life service member policy. . . wife & kids have so much to worry about how to pay bills then shouldn't be one

Survivors remorse. if you do your time there and you get to come home, you can volunteer to help families of the deceased servicemen in your area, if you feel guilt.

[Sanick]

I dont know how to explain it. The Bond between us Soldiers is more then family. Even the Soldiers i don't know that well. Guardian knows what i a talking about. Any Soldier you see... You know they have your back. They would die for you at anytime, anywhere. I would do the same for them, hands down. Thats why soldiers make the types of sacrifices to get Silver stars, or THe Medal of Honor. They dont do it for the medal, or for recognition. They do it for the soldiers to their left and right.

I have done some volunteer work here and there before. Its always and option, just not for me

[Jeff_in_Time]

Thanks Guardian and Sanick. I wouldn't be up for what you both have to go through.

What is the worse injury you have received while serving in the military?

[Guardian7347]

Part of MY JOB in the military is to ensure freedom for all people no matter race, sex, religion. I Gladly would gladly pay the price for freedom with EVERY drop of my blood, every breath, and every heartbeat for ANYONE on this planet who desires freedom in ANY country. Because thats why i joined. To Ensure freedom, and a future for the Next Generation.

There is no emoticon to sufficiently express my agreement to this statement. I hear so many soldiers pissing and moaning about how hard they have it, and how this is messing up their college(which the army is paying for by the way), etc. It's very refreshing to hear another soldier say "I do this because it's right.", even if our leadership doesn't have the moral reasoning for going in, it's the reasoning of the soldiers that decide how it is enacted. Teach your soldiers to think like you.

@Jess-unfortunately, we get a memorial service over there for our honored dead. The funerals, however, are done stateside, shortly after the body returns. This prevents us from being able to attend and pay our final, due respects.

I would take the bullet instead of them so they could come home to their young children, or new wives.

It's always THAT guy too, or at least it seems like it. Good guys really do die young. But yeah, agreed. I would take a bullet to insure someone else gets to go home to their family.

I dont know how to explain it. The Bond between us Soldiers is more then family. Even the Soldiers i don't know that well. Guardian knows what i a talking about. Any Soldier you see... You know they have your back. They would die for you at anytime, anywhere. I would do the same for them, hands down. Thats why soldiers make the types of sacrifices to get Silver stars, or THe Medal of Honor. They dont do it for the medal, or for recognition. They do it for the soldiers to their left and right.

I would amend one thing you said. Instead of they would die for you at anytime, anywhere, I would say they may die for you at anytime, anywhere. In my opinion, it's that relationship with death that makes us so close. We are never too far from meeting the reaper, and always trying to stay one step ahead. It's something others can't understand without being there. Until your life literally depends on another man standing his ground, you have no idea what trust really is. And until you are the man who must stand his ground, you have no idea what responsibility and fear of failure are.

[Sanick]

Thanks Guardian and Sanick. I wouldn't be up for what you both have to go through.

What is the worse injury you have received while serving in the military?

I was Lead vehicle in a convoy. My Truck got hit by an IED, and tossed us approx. 40 feet in the air, and threw us about 120 ft off to the side of the road. I suffered a concussion and 4 broken ribs. After we stopped rolling, i got out of my vehicle. (Which is hard when you are upside down, and nausated btw) and started to pull another injured soldier out when i was shot 3 times. 2 hit my armor which stopped the bullets dead. 3rd shot was a thru and thru on my right shoulder. Later in that same fight, i took another round to the right ankle

[Guardian7347]

You've taken far more abuse than I have my friend. I've managed to avoid major injuries, suffering only minor concussion injuries from ied's, mTBI's.

[Sanick]

You've taken far more abuse than I have my friend. I've managed to avoid major injuries, suffering only minor concussion injuries from ied's, mTBI's.

That was only my first deployment, I have many more stories to share. Thats good though, i wouldnt wish these injuries on anyone.

I've got alot of friends that have had multiple deployments and have never been injured, or even in an IED. Thats ok with me, i'd rather take the beatings because i know i can take them.

[Sanick]

You've taken far more abuse than I have my friend. I've managed to avoid major injuries, suffering only minor concussion injuries from ied's, mTBI's.

That was only my first deployment, I have many more stories to share. Thats good though, i wouldnt wish these injuries on anyone.

I've got alot of friends that have had multiple deployments and have never been injured, or even in an IED. Thats ok with me, i'd rather take the beatings because i know i can take them.

[Nostalgic]

What's an ied?

Shot, I can't even imagine

[Sanick]

Its stands for Improvised Explosive Device. Those things are not nice, but it is the way the insurgents attack us now. They hardly ever resort to small arms fire because we can outgun them from sun up to sundown

[Nostalgic]

Sounds so scary.

[Sanick]

Scary, yes for sure i agree.

However, as soldiers we receive so much training on how to react to them, that when it happens and our adrenaline kicks we, We choose the fight method over flight.

THe militay conditions us from the very first day to always choose Fight over FLight. Muscle Memory. If i train to take cover after hearing an explosion and then pull security and check my surroundings, over and over again. I will Always do that when it happens. Just like holding my rifle. My Rifle ALWAYS comes up to the same spot, EVERYTIME i pull it up to take a shot at someone. They drill that into you, and eventually it becomes second nature.