Lessons From The Military, Appreciation & How You Can Support Them

Lessons from the Military is a salute of appreciation, admiration and respect. We asked what these men and women learned from serving our country. We’ve also got ways you can help and support them.

Veterans have influenced the lives of every American, whether directly or indirectly. This post is to extend my gratefulness to those who have served and will serve. I thought it would be interesting to ask the veterans and servicemen that I know what they learned from having been in the service.

Some of the answers are humorous, some are more serious. They all are honest answers. The question inspired many stories, which were quite entertaining to hear. The answers may serve as a useful piece of advice for those enlisting in the military or perhaps will inspire.

I will share with you their branch and rank. I’m both thankful for them and proud of them. I hope this you all enjoy the post, but mostly I hope you are reminded to show them gratitude and to pray for them.  As we all know, they sacrificed their lives for us.

Lessons From the Military

We Asked:

What is something you learned from serving our country?

“Flexibility is key in getting things accomplished especially with an ever changing timeline.” Army SSG

“The changes one goes through being in the military changes the entire way you live and perceive the world around you. I learned to be honest and carry myself with honor in everything I put my mind to. You learn to hold yourself to a higher standard.” Air Force E4

“The military is not just a 4 year commitment and your done. It is a brotherhood and camaraderie that words can never do justice that you carry the rest of your life.” Marine E4

“Something that I learned is that it will take more out of you then you expect and to surround yourself with a support system. Days can get tough and things may not go your way but as long as you have a connection with someone else to provide you with comfort through hard times you can get through anything it seems. Also, don’t think of the military as a normal job. Your not guaranteed anything not even a paycheck. So just know that the military can take a lot from you. But you can also take a lot from it.” Air Force Airman First Class

“Self discipline and the will to never give up is what I learned the most. maybe not learned, per say, as much as developed more than what I was before I went in.” Army SPC (P)

“The Air Force taught me the best way to make computer passwords! !QAZ2wsx3edc always meets all the requirements!” Air Force E4 Senior Airman

“Hygiene is very important on a ship. Leave your skivvies on when you are going to take a shower, don’t run to the shower naked! When a smokin’ lamp is out, do not light a cigarette (so says a non-smoker).” Navy E5

In Closing

As we celebrate Patriotic Holidays, remember our military veterans and servicemen in your prayers. Each of the holidays are more than just time off from work, time and a half, or a BBQ.  It is my clear understanding that choosing to serve in the military is something that changes you for the rest of your life. It changes everything. It’s truly a sacrifice and not everyone is capable or willing to do so.

I would also like to give a huge thank you to all of their spouses and families. I can’t imagine it’s easy when your ‘better half’ or child is off serving this great nation. So, know that you are not forgotten and that we are praying for you too.

If you would like to do something special for Veterans, there are all sorts of organizations out there. Soldiers Angels is a way you can send packages and cards to soldiers currently serving. Military.com has a great list of ways to help veterans that you can check out.

Do you have any lessons from the military you’d like to share?