Ask an Infantryman: Would you do it again?

Posted By Uber Pig

Infantrymen,

This is a good question, one that I've asked of myself and some fellow veterans with continuing frequency since 9/11.  Because it comes from one of Blackfive's readers, instead of the ignorant but well-washed masses we call our fellow citizens, I'll ask you to show some respect. 

Dear Chuck Z:  Perhaps the readers of B5 can help me with this quandry. I have been seriously thinking of re-upping after 20 years. I have wanted to since 9/11, but back then, the age limits were a bust. With prior service, I could get in  under the wire and be commissioned. It would be a dream come true to serve again.

I keep hearing how the Army I know and loved is so different, why would I want to do it? I guess it's what The One said, and I don't mean Obama. It's not about me. It's in my heart and soul. I want it. No guts, no glory, just the duty, honor, Country.  I have all the questions any deploying soldier would have...effects on kids, family, of course. The question is, if you were offered the chance, would you do it again?

Thanks,

Forever a Defender

Here's my answer:  No.  I have a heart condition that precludes any kind of military service.  But even if I didn't have it, I wouldn't join the Army again, and certainly not right now.  I'm just not a good enough man to do that, knowing what I would have to give up.  I won't make excuses for it.  I'm selfish and a coward.  But my sincere thanks go to those of you on active duty -- like my brother, a Civil Affairs Specialist currently on duty in Iraq -- who are carrying my slack.  I appreciate it, and you are better men and women than I. 

Your advice for "Forever a Defender" in the comments below, please.

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Comments

Ask an Infantryman: Would you do it again?

Infantrymen,

This is a good question, one that I've asked of myself and some fellow veterans with continuing frequency since 9/11.  Because it comes from one of Blackfive's readers, instead of the ignorant but well-washed masses we call our fellow citizens, I'll ask you to show some respect. 

Dear Chuck Z:  Perhaps the readers of B5 can help me with this quandry. I have been seriously thinking of re-upping after 20 years. I have wanted to since 9/11, but back then, the age limits were a bust. With prior service, I could get in  under the wire and be commissioned. It would be a dream come true to serve again.

I keep hearing how the Army I know and loved is so different, why would I want to do it? I guess it's what The One said, and I don't mean Obama. It's not about me. It's in my heart and soul. I want it. No guts, no glory, just the duty, honor, Country.  I have all the questions any deploying soldier would have...effects on kids, family, of course. The question is, if you were offered the chance, would you do it again?

Thanks,

Forever a Defender

Here's my answer:  No.  I have a heart condition that precludes any kind of military service.  But even if I didn't have it, I wouldn't join the Army again, and certainly not right now.  I'm just not a good enough man to do that, knowing what I would have to give up.  I won't make excuses for it.  I'm selfish and a coward.  But my sincere thanks go to those of you on active duty -- like my brother, a Civil Affairs Specialist currently on duty in Iraq -- who are carrying my slack.  I appreciate it, and you are better men and women than I. 

Your advice for "Forever a Defender" in the comments below, please.

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