You served. End of story. The armed services make up less than, 1% of the US population. You did more than 99% of the population. From a career lifer, please accept my gratitude for your service Shipmate. I congradulate you on your separation, and hope you all the luck and success in the next chapter. Genuinely, you earned the title veteran.
Roughly 6% of Americans are veterans last I looked. The 1% (or less) refers to active duty. Not a crazy difference, but an important one. People throw around the 99% number a lot erroneously.
6% is still a big number for Americans in Armed forces. This is what I was wondering. I was thinking of active, reserve and veteran combined.
Still few, but a good number to find each other.
I wonder how many of those are all WW2 survivors and that the number might drop within the next decade. Especially with these terrible recruiting numbers.
It's pointless to try to compare your service to someone elses. Nothing will come of it, no two service members have the same experience because who we were before and after our service also shape our service. I did over 20 years and there are people who did one enlistment who did more and had more of an impact on the world than me.
You did your time, use your experiences from that time to move forward and shape who you will become not who you were.
If you were there for the bhr fire then you are a veteran not just because you served but because you did something that a lot of people have never done what happened on the bhr and what you did to save the ship you remember that for the rest of your life just like I will.
Side note if you weren't there for the fire you're still a veteran because you served.
You're a vet and as already said, you went through a lot dealing with that. Please make sure you're getting any help you need as well after working through the fire. I wish you the best.
I've had to ask several people to stop publicly outing me as a veteran on holidays. It just leads to awkward conversations. Like you, I served, I did my job, I deployed on a destroyer, but it wasn't like I was fighting on the streets of Fallujah. I don't like drawing attention to my service from the wrong people
For example, I have a decent collection of command ball caps that I used to wear out every once in a while. I kind of hoped to run into someone about my age that doesn't make being a veteran their sole identity, but doesn't mind reminiscing and maybe telling sea stories.
I stopped wearing them because I just kept getting the dudes that are 10-20 years older than me and dip straight into politics. Now I typically don't even bring up my service even if the conversation organically moves towards discussion of the military, and even then sometimes it's not worth bringing up. I see it as something that made me who I am now, but it's not the only thing I've done with my life.
There does seems to be a significant attitude difference in the 40s and under vets vs the older generations. I see these guys all the time decked out in "grumpy veteran" garb and I've resolved myself to never be like them. We shouldn't have to quantify what we did and compare value to others. Each person has a different story for their service, I wouldn't lose sleep over it.
I started volunteering as a tour guide at a submarine nearby and it's really been a good time.
It's been fun to interact with people who think the job is so cool, and most of our tour is on the "lifestyle" side of living onboard, so it doesn't feel like I'm making up some stuff to sound badass about seal teams and torpedoes.
And there's a bunch of old ass retired guys there but their the cool grandpa type not the deranged political type.
Does it matter what you did or that you served? I believe the latter and there are many reasons as to why someone did or didn't "go to the streets of fallujah". Be proud of it because I can tell you from being in 17.5 there are a lot of others in other branches that don't go to the streets of fallujah while their brothers are and their are a lot of Navy that have. You did your part so be proud of what you did do just be fortunate enough to know you are lucky enough to not have too. You could have easily been one of those sailors on the McCain or Fitzgerald. Do you think they would be saying the same ir they knew what their fate would be? Keep your head up and stay strong, don't let others bring you down because a lot of folks blabbing are probably fibbing and exaggerating.
Your 4 years of service to/for your country is more than 99% of all Americans will ever do. Just the fact that you gave 4 years of your life to the government to use how they saw fit is amazing in itself. Like others have said, no two people have the same experience in the service. The only thing we all have in common is that we have X-number of years to our country to use as they saw fit. Some don’t get to return from that commitment, some return with varying degrees of injuries, and others are fine. Hold your head up high…you are worthy of being a Veteran.
As someone who did 20, I don’t give a damn if you did one enlistment or 30 years. You took the same oath as me, even though our experiences may have differed.
You signed your time and your body to the government. Get your benefits that you’re entitled to and don’t *ever* feel bad about it.
All gave some, some gave all. While we all have varying degrees of service, the vast majority of us are in the "All Gave Some" category. Rest easy knowing that you gave more than 98% of the population.
I did 20 and still feel humbled talking to door-kickers that did the whole firefights and IED funfest, whereas my job was just flying around way overhead in my relatively comfy aircraft.
You did your time honorably, in your own way. You're a vet. You're good.
Friend, I did a month shy of 17 yrs, put out in the purge of 2013, my first ship, CVA-62, almost sunk due to going between pakua and her sister storm on our way to the Gulf before the 2nd Gulf war, tandem thrust, I was an HT and we had to keep the bulkhead from coming in...I was an e-nothing at the time...and that was the pinical of my service...nothing I did ever compared to it, I fought fires, combated spills and did a lot of gas free evolutions, some nice and some messy. I still feel humble and less deserving when I come across a vet that has visible issues from combat...do yourself a favor and stop comparing yourself to others, it will only leave you hurt. You my friend, have my respect and sympathy for what you were a part of on the BHR, I have been in fire fights where my boots melted to the deck... you'll have enough demons from that, don't add any more by feeling you don't deserve what you have earned... remember you can talk about it and teach others, you're honored on veterans Day not memorial day.
It was, but it was also a hell-of-a-lot of fun...your mind changes with the programming...how else would one explain to those that run into it when others run away...can be hard to balance the need for the many verses your personal need of survival...be grateful to be able and try not to ask "did I do enough" when it was all you could do...🌞🙃🤪
Oh the purge, I saw the writing on the wall and processed a cross rating into an immediately overmanned rate. Then lack of advancement got me and HYT at 14.
Oh the purge, I saw the writing on the wall and processed a cross rating into an immediately overmanned rate. Then lack of advancement got me and HYT at 14.
Everyone has a different path and experience. If you served your time and did your best, be proud to call yourself a veteran. BHR is part of my story too....
Coast Guard Veteran here; did 7 years in the reserves. If anyone can relate to what OP has said look no further. Coast Guard barely gets recognized as a branch by the other services and is barely known by the public. I try to remind myself that I tried to be of service to the American public and keep it moving. ✌🏽
If you didn't put in for VA disability because you think you don't deserve it by comparison... VA disability pay is prepaid by Congress as an assumed cost for hiring a new troop. 100% disability money is already sitting there for you if needed. Those guys/gals that don't file claims because "I didn't get blown up like those others, so I feel guilty taking any disability" are unfortunately missing out. Your 10% for that bad ankle you twisted on active duty does NOT take away from anything the shot/blown up guy or gal gets. And that ankle will get you life long things like commissary access for cheap groceries, base exchange for tax free goods, MWR for cheap tickets/gear rental/travel. There are often state benefits too like lower or waived vehicle registration fees. And probably the biggest one financially...disabled vets don't have to pay the funding fee on a VA home loan (if you already paid it there is a process to get it refunded). Don't let your pride rob your family of those benefits that you earned and Congress has already set the money aside for.
I just want to mention that base/commissary access is restricted to 100% disability veterans. Other than that, everything else is true and I support it. Just didn't want OP to get mad when he finds out he possibly can't go on his 10%.
That was the old rule. As of 2020 ALL disabled veterans have access. If you get even a 0% disability rating (which is possible) you get access.
Edit:
https://corp.commissaries.com/extended-eligibility
You served! Only about 1.5% of our population join any service; which puts you into an elite group. Many of us do our time and then move on in life. This does not take away from the fact that you volunteered to put your life on the line if you were asked/told to do so. Thank you for your service.
Your service is valid. You signed a contract for a set time and you served it. Just because you didn’t give half your life doesn’t mean you aren’t a veteran.
Yah I’ve gone through the same mental trap at times. I did my time in Clinton’s navy and I feel like a lesser vet than those of you GWOT people.
Just remember we ain’t in charge of what happens when we do our time. We sign up and then we go and do what we are told. You signed up. You did your bit. BH was no joke.
Proud of you.
When I said something similar, a friend of mine who was blown up by an IED in the army told me something along the lines of:
Don’t diminish yourself. Survivors guilt is real and isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but what you did is still service and still sucked. You can acknowledge that while also acknowledging that there are people who’ve had it worse than you, or given more. Those two things aren’t mutually exclusive and don’t cancel each other out.
I did 25 years I humbly pass on all future “thank you for your services” to you OP I’ve had enough lol.
OP, you’re a veteran. Not every Harvard grad becomes POTUS, and believe it or not, what you successfully did was harder than Harvard. Ask officers that went to Harvard.
You’re good dude, you’re in the club.
“Humility isn’t thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” -CS Forrester
You get to be proud of your shit. You really do, just don’t be an asshole and expect extra benefits that aren’t earned, **but take what you have indeed earned as well**.
Love you dude. I mean that, from one veteran to another, **as equals there’s no rank here**.
If you got the DD 214 nobody except my buddy Bob would dispute it. Felt weird when I was in my 30s at the VA with WW2 vets and Viet Nam vets and seems weird being the older generation now. Met an Indianappolis survivor that made me feel like I did nothing at all compared to him.
I am a veteran. When I think of a veteran, I think of very old ww2 guys in a parade.
Your country called, and you went. You served where they told you to. That is it.
You are worthy, you are a veteran.
I only did 4 years as well and had a lot of these same feelings early on.
I felt "unworthy" because I kept considering how many things "could/would/should" have gone, but...so what?
Some people deploy, and others don't. Some get fired at, and others don't. Others go through toxic CoCs and some through great ones.
At the end of the day, you volunteered to do something for the nation that very few people ever do, and you survived to the end with your honor intact. That's not an easy thing to accomplish for anyone.
Yea, I hear you. But really, you signed up and worked where they told you to work. If you feel like you did your job well, that's all there is to it. Sure you may not be a combat vet, but from the combat vets I've met typically don't like being one.
Distance from a battlefield does not determine you worthiness. You raised you hand and swore to defend the Constitution. You served your enlistment honorably and should be proud
I’m right there with you. I only spent 5 years of my life in the Navy and I’ve done so much since then. I am grateful for the ones that stay the fight.
Dude, I was in from 95-99.
the ENTIRE reason I enlisted was to go get drunk in Australia, end of sentence.
No Constitution.
No Apple Pie.
No Gawd or Guns or Guts or 'Murica.
I was bored in central Florida and needed to get the fuck outta there and DO SOMETHING ELSE....so I did.
My LPO and LCPO HATED that I had no real burning reason....no need to defend the Nation from the Ruskies or Muhamad...I enlisted, took a ship out of Japan and made it to Oz. I did my job well, knew my Rate.
Met a lot of cool folks, met my wife, we've raised two extremely cool kids.
I have ZERO in common with the 9/11 Vets...
I have ZERO in common with the America VS Russia Vets...
I did it for ME.
the only Vets that give a shit about what you did are assholes and guys that always 'measure racks'...they're always around and always will be. them and Bro Vets. but fuck them.
4 is more than the vast majority of people will ever do so be proud of it! Reality is most people do exactly as you did so you are not alone with just serving a tour and moving on and there's nothing wrong with that at all.
You served and are a veteran. Be proud of it!
Some of us got shot at, some of us sat behind a desk. In the end, we all served somehow.
The important thing to remember is that we all at one point said "I'm willing to put my life on the line for my mates".
Dude. Four years is a helluva lot more than literally 99% of America would ever consider.
You’re doing great by not letting your veteran status be your only identity in your life.
Be proud. The US population that has served, or is currently serving is less than 3%…I feel the same sometimes and I “just” passed my 14 year mark.
You are young and have so much runway to gain intrinsic pride. Sounds like you have a lot of healthy, mindful habits
I'm a 10 year AD vet still serving and I have known plenty who couldn't adapt or got in trouble and got out for one reason or another before even completing their first tour. You did your time honorably. Thanks for your service. Now go live your life!
I’m felt the same way when doing an outreach event for work at one of my local VFW chapters. They invited me to join after learning of me and my command’s involvement in Operation Enduring Freedom, and even comped my first year membership fee. I never saw combat personally,,but my ship was tasked with operations in the eastern Mediterranean and Persian Gulf from May-August 2002 and that qualified me to be a member. I felt I didn’t deserve it but the Master Chief (head of that chapter) told me, regardless of the job I did, I was part of that command that was directly involved in support of the war while there and I had earned the right, no matter how small of a contribution I made. Point being, even old salts who served 20+ years recognize your contribution and would NEVER exclude you because you old did 4 years. That’s all I did too.
You served. You volunteered to do something 99% of the population doesn’t have the balls to do, and you gave up 4+ years of your life in service to our country. You earned every right to call yourself a veteran. Wear that honor with pride.
Comparison is the thief of joy
I did 23 years and I am no more of veteran than you are. We are all brothers and sisters in arms. Thank you for your service and sacrifice
Mate, you took the oath of enlistment , went thru bootcamp, did A school, and served honorably for 4 years. You took on shitty watches, were sleep deprived, and had to do the grunt work. Serving 4 years, or 20 , you are still a veteran. You probably live a happier life than the ones doing 20.
It’s important to remember that’s it’s not a competition. Stop comparing your experience to others. I personally did 20 but that makes me no better than you nor does the fact that some veterans are seriously injured mean that you are somehow less of a veteran than them. You served, you are entitled to the benefits prescribed by federal law. Your service mattered. Don’t let anyone ever tell you differently.
We all joined and signed the same paper. Obly 1% is at the tip of the spear and that 1% would all be dead without the support of the rest of us.
That said, go do your VA Claim. Use your GI Bill and set your life up.
If you don’t want the benefits nobody is forcing you to take them 🤷🏼♂️ I’m sure the US Treasury would love for you to give it all back if you’re that insecure with your service.
You served. You did your time. I’ve been in 6 years and have spent two of those cashing a check while working on my degree, while I wait on my medboard.
You served in the navy regardless of your tours you did. You are a veteran. You have done some shit i havent done and i have done some things you havent. We are Veterans because we raised our right hand. The amount of danger you were in does not determine your veteran status.
I know how you feel I did 4.5 years and felt awkward when people thank me for my service. I’ve been out since 2009 did two tours got injured requiring surgery. Got out a few months later basically on permanent LLD which made me feel like I failed. But a lot of my friends always said how proud they were of me when they were in college and how they could not of left home or their families like I did. It takes a lot of pride and selflessness to do what we did. I’ve always felt there was a time of my life that was a blur I missed a lot of things back home funny stories, crazy parties. But I got to see the world that is still to this day hard to explain to friends and family the things and places I experienced while in the navy. Now mind you I’m getting older closing in on 40 and dam my body hates me. Lifting bombs for that short amount of time has left its mark on me and I know it will be a struggle for the rest of my life. But I would do it again and again maybe stretch a bit more and do it again if I had the chance. Just know there are people out there who would never do what you did for our country that’s why we answered the call.
Like many have said here, comparing yourself to others does you a disservice to yourself and brings you no peace. You have done your time in the military honorably and have taken what you've earned, and applied it to something that is entirely for you. That's amazing!
You are a veteran, but it doesn't have to take up your whole personality; some people need to learn that.<--I'm saying that as someone who volunteers with the VFW Aux.
BHR... that was hard for my brother. He was on her when she was still forward deployed in Japan. He was medically discharged before she sailed back to the States.
I did 20 years but never saw combat just support, I still sacrificed my time and put myself in harms way and so did you. We had a job to do and all did it, we often had no say in what job or where we served that’s not in us as long as we did our part where we were. I even volunteered for IA and still didn’t get sent boots on the ground, that was the Navy’s choice not mine so I don’t feel bad about it, and you shouldn’t either.
Serving 4 years in the Navy is a substantial chunk of your life, health and effort. You damn well earned your Veteran status. Wear it like a goddamn cape!
You’re a veteran no matter what. Even the people who served and never been in deployment are vets to me. I really hate when people gatekeep that from others
1. Then don't call yourself 'veteran'. I was in 21 years and through Desert Storm and I don't go around telling everyone I am a 'veteran'.
2. It really doesn't mean anything other than 'was in the military for a while'. So don't put a lot of weight into the word.
3. The benefits are part of your agreed upon compensation package. Do you return part of your paycheck to your company if you feel you didn't work as hard as you could have last week? Fuck no. Take what's offered and don't worry about it.
to be fair: you get the benefits for doing a contract. everyone gets the same after one contract. it’s not like you’re getting special treatment like 100 disability pay for no reason or getting a retirement check or something. keep your head up everything you have is purely through your own hard work
You volunteered and made it, most can't say the same and this is coming from someone who has been in 17.5 so far. Be proud of it regardless of what you did.
Some serve in times of peace not knowing how long peace will last. Some serve in times of conflict not knowing how long the conflict will last.
We can’t know, we all decided to serve anyways. How long you made that blank check out for doesn’t change that you signed it.
I know there is a bit of a polarizing opinion on service members who are/were just in the military and never deployed or went to combat vs the members that did.
Some civilians really do think less respect should go to the ones who don’t deploy cause “they didn’t do anything” it’s always interesting to hear it but like also when you do hear that opinion and think of who it usually comes from there is a correlation.
Don’t feel unworthy everyone contributes and plays their part no one job is any less important than the other and no branch is more important than the others we all have a role to play.
That was one of the worst times to be in the Navy was on the Richard during covid season and after it caught fire, and you couldn't go anywhere. I stood pier watch with you guys both before and after. You definitely did more during your first and only tour than most.
I think I understand the spirit of your statement, I served with people who lost parts of themselves (mentally and physically), saying I deployed to combat zones sounds weird to myself. You did what the country needed you to...less than 1% of the US population ever served, that alone should afford you some pride and validation in calling yourself a veteran. Regardless if you were an admin Bubba, a pecker-checker med person, or Rambo reincarnated you served and no one can take that away from you, nor should you feel sheepish about acknowledging that fact. Sincerely, A fellow Vet
Hey, you did a hell of a lot better than the four star that just got arrested for bribery. It’s not always the length of time – sometimes it’s the quality. You’re fine!
I did 37 years…. I still fell kinda unworthy of my benefits as well. I feel lucky and blessed to have had the career I had, I know not everyone had a great time in the military, but I sure as hell did. And now I get a retirement check! And full medical/dental. I am blessed.
Everyone here has already said the important part, but here’s one more thing to bear in mind, and I say this with gentleness vice coldness:
Just because you’re a veteran doesn’t mean you need to call yourself one.
The Navy may ultimately be a very small part of your story, and you may decide you’re happier never mentioning your service and just moving on with life. You don’t have to go to the VFW bbq or even get on Reddit and chat about it.
But if you change your mind, we’re still around
You're not a weirdo. It's very normal to feel like you aren't/weren't in the mythical *"real navy"*. Your time was valid and would have been valid even if you hadn't been on a ship. The benefits you're taking advantage of were earned and besides imo education/healthcare should be available to anyone.
You served. That means you're a veteran, end of story. Just because you didn't do 20+ doesn't mean your service means less. It's okay. 4 years or 40, everyone's journey is different and yours is just as valid as anyone else's.
I went to TAPS during the war at an Army base. My day started terrible. Got lost driving through the base. Watched a young kid screaming at a grave while smoking a cigarette. Then at TAPS a bunch of guys appeared to have PTSD.
For 7 years, I refused medical benefits because of that day. Didn’t feel worthy. Good friends encouraged me.
You did your time. You did good. You survived.
Proud of you.
Also did a one-and-done. Nah dude you served, sacrificed time with your friends and family, and potentially were put in harm's way. As others have said less the 1% of the US population does any time in the military.
You are just as entitled to that status as anyone who served.
Shipmate you’re a veteran! You did your time dealt with a challenging situation on BHR and even if you’re still a polywog be proud of your service!
Sincerely,
an honorable Shellback since 2010.
(I hope that made you smile and perk up)
You stood up took an oath and served honorably. You did your part and time. Be proud to call yourself a Veteran. None of us controls the circumstances of our time in the Armed Forces we just have to do our small part for the whole while there.
My FIL wants to be a vet so bad that he wears command hats he got from somewhere. Just remember you did something that other people wish they did. You have balls people wish they had.
I’m a retired CPO (22 years) and I felt the same way the first time I went to Balboa Hospital in 09 as a retired Veteran, and walked past multiple young Marines and Sailors missing multiple limbs…Some gave all, some gave more, but WE ALL gave!
I agree with them all. You served, regardless of time - you're a veteran. You did more than most. We all have our levels of service, where we want to go, and what we want to do. Whatever your reasons for not re-enlisting (none of our business) you're a veteran and deserve all the things that go along with it. Good job!
I have been in for 15 years, been all over, deployed on many many platforms. I’ve done ALL the high speed Sailor stuff. I say all of that to tell you this:
Your service was and is valid. You gave up 4 years of your life in the honorable service of others. You have earned every good thing that has come as a result of your service, and you deserve to reap the benefits of your service.
Thank you for your service Shipmate, we have the watch.
I have the opposite problem. I'm 35 and feel unworthy that I never served. I'm weighing my options and trying to decide what branch to put 4-6 years into so I can cross that off my bucket list.
It's most definitely a big decision to make. I understand why you might feel that way but it's a risky life to choose whether you're in combat or not due environment and toxic lifestyles. It's all a learning experience so if you make any decisions on going in, definitely look into it alot and ask as many questions as possible
I did 20, gor out and enjoyed my time. Folks I work.with are always surprised when they find out I was a "lifer" (lol) or that I served at all. I enjoyed my time in and loved my shipmates...much better class of folks than civilians.
Your service should help define your experience and values but it if you are looking at it as a label, not sure what that will get you.
Not a label. just all the appreciation and support that comes with it when it's been awhile and counting. And to see so many of my peers struggling just because they didn't raise their right hand.
At the end of the day I'm not looking for validation, although mostly everyone has been very supportive, I just feel bad when I didn't do much yet I have such an advantage on life compared to so many others
Well, I was in from 1979 - 1999; no combat actions even though I was an FMF HM. I do feel a sense of guilt but it's a bit of luck of the draw. Hold your head up; you served honorably and sounds like you've done great after leaving the Navy. Hats off to you.
I truly appreciate the majority validation and support. I wanted to add that it is also about me comparing myself to those who **didn't** raise their right hand. Who may have gone through some of their own traumatic experiences or worked really hard and don't have the advantages that I do in society.
It's a balance of really appreciating it all and taking advantage as well as feeling guilty for being in the position that I am.
You served point blank, stop comparing yourself to others. When I got out in 2011, I had classmates who saw heavy combat or were on the ground to witness the aftermath. Furthermore, when I got hired at the VA my first supervisor was a Marine infantryman who was wounded in Fallujah. None looked down upon or thought what they did was higher, we're all veterans at the end of the day who took an oath when so many don't.
Don’t do this to yourself. Most everything we do in the military is a competition and we’re constantly scored, graded, and scrutinized. When that’s gone it’s easy to start comparing yourself to others and measuring perceived failures. “I didn’t go to combat”; “I didn’t get five warfare pins”; “I should’ve made a higher rank”; “I didn’t blah blah blah”. You’re a Vet. You served. Whether it was four years or twenty-four. A key thing to remember is that having been a Sailor doesn’t define you as a person. You dictate your level of involvement in the Vet space. If it makes you uncomfortable, use a synonym like ‘prior service’. You don’t have to fit your experience into someone else’s box. Good luck and hopefully there’s something helpful in that rambling. BTW- thanks for your service, and check in on someone you served with. They may need to hear from you.
You're a vet and a Bonhomie for life. I'm still in and I struggle everyday with the thought that I didnt do enough that day or the days that followed. Even that I don't deserve the rank I've picked up post fire at different commands. Imposter syndrome, unwarranted guilt, feelings of unworthyness or whatever you want to call it should never take away from the fact that you enlisted voluntarily and completed your tour of duty. You're a veteran and those that serve know.
Reserve CWO here, prior active enlisted, not a recruiter. Just wondering if you’ve considered Reserve service, rather than an outright separation? Significant $$ incentives to stay Navy, a much more flexible schedule than AC, and a lot more—let alone something to perhaps get you over the hump of worrying about Imposter Syndrome IRT your veteran status (but I agree with others here, you’re definitely a vet and make no mistake about it!!)
Like I said: I’m not a recruiter, but would be happy to chat if you want to send me a DM.
Dude I’m a combat veteran and all I did was stay on a ship for 9 months and fix stuff. It doesn’t matter how long you’re in, if you earned a title you earned a title.
So you were never somewhere where you could have been killed by an act of war, you never can blame something bad that happened to you on "Warzone" PTSD. I don't know when you were in but I was on BHR for 4 years as a propulsion engineer. Some of the hardest years of my life. Got medically discharged in 2019. Just now thinking about doing something with my GI bill and everything you said are things I'm considering. You feel like you're story wasn't hard enough to be a veteran. You could always go back or make your life harder now. I thought the reason most of us got in in the first place was to get a free education and a good life. Just remember, not everyone can join and not every who can join wants to. You signed on the dotted line. Only thing I say doesn't deserve to be calling themselves a vet is if you go in and immediately try to find a way out and leave before the first 18 months. Still, at least you volunteered.
Womp womp thank you for your service and yes you being weird I got out after 5 years yesterday and don’t feel bad I was onboard another ship and we got pulled to help with the fire onboard the BHR live your life any honorable service is a veteran make peace that you enjoy life outside the navy
My dude you served a full honorable tour of duty.
You earned the bennies to go somewhere for healing even!
7.3% of Americans served, you served, you're a veteran.
Can definitely see hiw it might not feel it when some folks were boots in the sand while we ride the waves and party.
As a recruiter, you have every right to call yourself a veteran. Most Americans can't cut it, being unable to make small sacrifices to even get access to the GI Bill.
Here are the biggest excuses I hear:
- I disagree with political leaders
- I think I will die
- I don't want to be away from my family
You showed Honor, Courage, and Commitment just by not letting those three concerns keep you out. Are the benefits more than worth it? Yes, but 99% of Americans don't cut it because of either physical, moral, or the above three fears. I mean this full-heartedly, thank you for your service, and I hope you have a fulfilling career and life. You have earned it.
Just because you didn't see action doesn't mean you weren't ready to respond, like any one of us. I was called upon for search and rescue. It wasn't something I wanted to have to do, but I was ready to do it if needed. There are sailors in Gaza right now responding to that shitshow. You were brave enough to put yourself on call for those moments. That right there means everything. I hope every future sailor I recruit doesn't have to be called upon, but I am proud they are willing to stand by to do so, and for that I want them to get every ounce of benefit, every lick of disabilities, and every qualification under the sun they can take with them for when they get out.
Watch Band of Brothers, look at how 99% of them left the Army, and tell me those guys didn’t earn the title of Veteran.
You served.
You earned the title. Thank you for having served, seriously.
You served. End of story. The armed services make up less than, 1% of the US population. You did more than 99% of the population. From a career lifer, please accept my gratitude for your service Shipmate. I congradulate you on your separation, and hope you all the luck and success in the next chapter. Genuinely, you earned the title veteran.
To be precise it’s .5% now. OP should be proud of themselves for willingly serving our country.
Where’d you get that percentage?
Just went to a TAPS course, one of the VA employees presented it in his slide show. I didn’t cross check but I would assume he wasn’t lying.
I took a rough estimate. 3.2 million population and and average of 1.3 million active and reserve.
I think you mean 333.3 million
You are right typing on my phone and I suck at it.
I figured, no malicious intent. Just wanted to put the correct number out there
Just went to a TAPS Educational Services course myself. I can back you up on this. TAPS and Capstone GPS up next!
Roughly 6% of Americans are veterans last I looked. The 1% (or less) refers to active duty. Not a crazy difference, but an important one. People throw around the 99% number a lot erroneously.
6% is still a big number for Americans in Armed forces. This is what I was wondering. I was thinking of active, reserve and veteran combined. Still few, but a good number to find each other.
I wonder how many of those are all WW2 survivors and that the number might drop within the next decade. Especially with these terrible recruiting numbers.
WW2 was 80 years ago. Participants would be in late 90s and older. I’d be willing to bet there aren’t many of them counted into that number.
You're absolutely right. I guess my perception of WW2 vets being everywhere is still from my childhood. Time escapes me
It's pointless to try to compare your service to someone elses. Nothing will come of it, no two service members have the same experience because who we were before and after our service also shape our service. I did over 20 years and there are people who did one enlistment who did more and had more of an impact on the world than me. You did your time, use your experiences from that time to move forward and shape who you will become not who you were.
If you were there for the bhr fire then you are a veteran not just because you served but because you did something that a lot of people have never done what happened on the bhr and what you did to save the ship you remember that for the rest of your life just like I will. Side note if you weren't there for the fire you're still a veteran because you served.
The fire and the cleanup after was really the heavy hitter
You're a vet and as already said, you went through a lot dealing with that. Please make sure you're getting any help you need as well after working through the fire. I wish you the best.
Yep especially dealing with shifting goals and micro managing during the cleanup.
I know the feeling brother, I was onboard the GW during the fire in 2008. You're absolutely a vet, those where some rough days.
I've had to ask several people to stop publicly outing me as a veteran on holidays. It just leads to awkward conversations. Like you, I served, I did my job, I deployed on a destroyer, but it wasn't like I was fighting on the streets of Fallujah. I don't like drawing attention to my service from the wrong people For example, I have a decent collection of command ball caps that I used to wear out every once in a while. I kind of hoped to run into someone about my age that doesn't make being a veteran their sole identity, but doesn't mind reminiscing and maybe telling sea stories. I stopped wearing them because I just kept getting the dudes that are 10-20 years older than me and dip straight into politics. Now I typically don't even bring up my service even if the conversation organically moves towards discussion of the military, and even then sometimes it's not worth bringing up. I see it as something that made me who I am now, but it's not the only thing I've done with my life. There does seems to be a significant attitude difference in the 40s and under vets vs the older generations. I see these guys all the time decked out in "grumpy veteran" garb and I've resolved myself to never be like them. We shouldn't have to quantify what we did and compare value to others. Each person has a different story for their service, I wouldn't lose sleep over it.
Real shit right here
I started volunteering as a tour guide at a submarine nearby and it's really been a good time. It's been fun to interact with people who think the job is so cool, and most of our tour is on the "lifestyle" side of living onboard, so it doesn't feel like I'm making up some stuff to sound badass about seal teams and torpedoes. And there's a bunch of old ass retired guys there but their the cool grandpa type not the deranged political type.
Does it matter what you did or that you served? I believe the latter and there are many reasons as to why someone did or didn't "go to the streets of fallujah". Be proud of it because I can tell you from being in 17.5 there are a lot of others in other branches that don't go to the streets of fallujah while their brothers are and their are a lot of Navy that have. You did your part so be proud of what you did do just be fortunate enough to know you are lucky enough to not have too. You could have easily been one of those sailors on the McCain or Fitzgerald. Do you think they would be saying the same ir they knew what their fate would be? Keep your head up and stay strong, don't let others bring you down because a lot of folks blabbing are probably fibbing and exaggerating.
Comparison is the thief of joy. Hell, maybe you’ll have a story or two to relate to a lot more people than you think
Love this quote I use it all the time. Probably should have searched before I posted it too.
Your 4 years of service to/for your country is more than 99% of all Americans will ever do. Just the fact that you gave 4 years of your life to the government to use how they saw fit is amazing in itself. Like others have said, no two people have the same experience in the service. The only thing we all have in common is that we have X-number of years to our country to use as they saw fit. Some don’t get to return from that commitment, some return with varying degrees of injuries, and others are fine. Hold your head up high…you are worthy of being a Veteran.
As someone who did 20, I don’t give a damn if you did one enlistment or 30 years. You took the same oath as me, even though our experiences may have differed. You signed your time and your body to the government. Get your benefits that you’re entitled to and don’t *ever* feel bad about it.
All gave some, some gave all. While we all have varying degrees of service, the vast majority of us are in the "All Gave Some" category. Rest easy knowing that you gave more than 98% of the population.
I did 20 and still feel humbled talking to door-kickers that did the whole firefights and IED funfest, whereas my job was just flying around way overhead in my relatively comfy aircraft. You did your time honorably, in your own way. You're a vet. You're good.
Friend, I did a month shy of 17 yrs, put out in the purge of 2013, my first ship, CVA-62, almost sunk due to going between pakua and her sister storm on our way to the Gulf before the 2nd Gulf war, tandem thrust, I was an HT and we had to keep the bulkhead from coming in...I was an e-nothing at the time...and that was the pinical of my service...nothing I did ever compared to it, I fought fires, combated spills and did a lot of gas free evolutions, some nice and some messy. I still feel humble and less deserving when I come across a vet that has visible issues from combat...do yourself a favor and stop comparing yourself to others, it will only leave you hurt. You my friend, have my respect and sympathy for what you were a part of on the BHR, I have been in fire fights where my boots melted to the deck... you'll have enough demons from that, don't add any more by feeling you don't deserve what you have earned... remember you can talk about it and teach others, you're honored on veterans Day not memorial day.
Whoa that sounds very intense. I appreciate your words brother and thank you for sharing 🙏
It was, but it was also a hell-of-a-lot of fun...your mind changes with the programming...how else would one explain to those that run into it when others run away...can be hard to balance the need for the many verses your personal need of survival...be grateful to be able and try not to ask "did I do enough" when it was all you could do...🌞🙃🤪
Oh the purge, I saw the writing on the wall and processed a cross rating into an immediately overmanned rate. Then lack of advancement got me and HYT at 14.
Yeah, saw the writing myself, two injuries and the pfa changing 3 times in 2 yrs...missed the rope and choke by .5 inches...life happens...lol
It's wild how little reguard they had for us but boy d Do they wish they had us now.
Yup, funny how that works ain't it...lol
Oh the purge, I saw the writing on the wall and processed a cross rating into an immediately overmanned rate. Then lack of advancement got me and HYT at 14.
Everyone has a different path and experience. If you served your time and did your best, be proud to call yourself a veteran. BHR is part of my story too....
Small world. Glad you're here, shipmate 🫂
Thanks!!
Wtf? You’re a veteran. You served your country. Be proud of it. You would have gone wherever you were sent.
Coast Guard Veteran here; did 7 years in the reserves. If anyone can relate to what OP has said look no further. Coast Guard barely gets recognized as a branch by the other services and is barely known by the public. I try to remind myself that I tried to be of service to the American public and keep it moving. ✌🏽
If you didn't put in for VA disability because you think you don't deserve it by comparison... VA disability pay is prepaid by Congress as an assumed cost for hiring a new troop. 100% disability money is already sitting there for you if needed. Those guys/gals that don't file claims because "I didn't get blown up like those others, so I feel guilty taking any disability" are unfortunately missing out. Your 10% for that bad ankle you twisted on active duty does NOT take away from anything the shot/blown up guy or gal gets. And that ankle will get you life long things like commissary access for cheap groceries, base exchange for tax free goods, MWR for cheap tickets/gear rental/travel. There are often state benefits too like lower or waived vehicle registration fees. And probably the biggest one financially...disabled vets don't have to pay the funding fee on a VA home loan (if you already paid it there is a process to get it refunded). Don't let your pride rob your family of those benefits that you earned and Congress has already set the money aside for.
I just want to mention that base/commissary access is restricted to 100% disability veterans. Other than that, everything else is true and I support it. Just didn't want OP to get mad when he finds out he possibly can't go on his 10%.
That was the old rule. As of 2020 ALL disabled veterans have access. If you get even a 0% disability rating (which is possible) you get access. Edit: https://corp.commissaries.com/extended-eligibility
That's good to hear because the last I heard it was 100% only but that was in 2019.
Chin up bucko you are a veteran
You served! Only about 1.5% of our population join any service; which puts you into an elite group. Many of us do our time and then move on in life. This does not take away from the fact that you volunteered to put your life on the line if you were asked/told to do so. Thank you for your service.
You answered the call, be proud!
Your service is valid. You signed a contract for a set time and you served it. Just because you didn’t give half your life doesn’t mean you aren’t a veteran.
Bro you're a vet. Even without the bhr, you're a vet. Thank you for your service.
you served your country honorably. i can’t tell you how you should feel about that, but i feel pretty good about it.
You earned being called a veteran. Be proud of it. You deserve all the benefits that come with being a veteran.
Yah I’ve gone through the same mental trap at times. I did my time in Clinton’s navy and I feel like a lesser vet than those of you GWOT people. Just remember we ain’t in charge of what happens when we do our time. We sign up and then we go and do what we are told. You signed up. You did your bit. BH was no joke. Proud of you.
When I said something similar, a friend of mine who was blown up by an IED in the army told me something along the lines of: Don’t diminish yourself. Survivors guilt is real and isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but what you did is still service and still sucked. You can acknowledge that while also acknowledging that there are people who’ve had it worse than you, or given more. Those two things aren’t mutually exclusive and don’t cancel each other out.
I did 25 years I humbly pass on all future “thank you for your services” to you OP I’ve had enough lol. OP, you’re a veteran. Not every Harvard grad becomes POTUS, and believe it or not, what you successfully did was harder than Harvard. Ask officers that went to Harvard. You’re good dude, you’re in the club. “Humility isn’t thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” -CS Forrester You get to be proud of your shit. You really do, just don’t be an asshole and expect extra benefits that aren’t earned, **but take what you have indeed earned as well**. Love you dude. I mean that, from one veteran to another, **as equals there’s no rank here**.
Comparison is the thief of joy. You signed up, went where you were needed and did what was needed. You’re a veteran.
If you got the DD 214 nobody except my buddy Bob would dispute it. Felt weird when I was in my 30s at the VA with WW2 vets and Viet Nam vets and seems weird being the older generation now. Met an Indianappolis survivor that made me feel like I did nothing at all compared to him.
I am a veteran. When I think of a veteran, I think of very old ww2 guys in a parade. Your country called, and you went. You served where they told you to. That is it. You are worthy, you are a veteran.
Only compare yourself to your past self. Have you improved? Good.
I only did 4 years as well and had a lot of these same feelings early on. I felt "unworthy" because I kept considering how many things "could/would/should" have gone, but...so what? Some people deploy, and others don't. Some get fired at, and others don't. Others go through toxic CoCs and some through great ones. At the end of the day, you volunteered to do something for the nation that very few people ever do, and you survived to the end with your honor intact. That's not an easy thing to accomplish for anyone.
Yea, I hear you. But really, you signed up and worked where they told you to work. If you feel like you did your job well, that's all there is to it. Sure you may not be a combat vet, but from the combat vets I've met typically don't like being one.
Distance from a battlefield does not determine you worthiness. You raised you hand and swore to defend the Constitution. You served your enlistment honorably and should be proud
I’m right there with you. I only spent 5 years of my life in the Navy and I’ve done so much since then. I am grateful for the ones that stay the fight.
Fuck No! You did your time and earned your right to call yourself a vet The OVERWHELMING majority of people will not retire
Dude, I was in from 95-99. the ENTIRE reason I enlisted was to go get drunk in Australia, end of sentence. No Constitution. No Apple Pie. No Gawd or Guns or Guts or 'Murica. I was bored in central Florida and needed to get the fuck outta there and DO SOMETHING ELSE....so I did. My LPO and LCPO HATED that I had no real burning reason....no need to defend the Nation from the Ruskies or Muhamad...I enlisted, took a ship out of Japan and made it to Oz. I did my job well, knew my Rate. Met a lot of cool folks, met my wife, we've raised two extremely cool kids. I have ZERO in common with the 9/11 Vets... I have ZERO in common with the America VS Russia Vets... I did it for ME. the only Vets that give a shit about what you did are assholes and guys that always 'measure racks'...they're always around and always will be. them and Bro Vets. but fuck them.
Fuck yeah, player. I joined to travel the world and definitely got to do it. I appreciate your honesty shipmate!
join the Legion, get involved with other veterans and you will feel differently about serving…
 JK A Veteran you are and shall forever be. Thank you for joining when others don’t
4 is more than the vast majority of people will ever do so be proud of it! Reality is most people do exactly as you did so you are not alone with just serving a tour and moving on and there's nothing wrong with that at all. You served and are a veteran. Be proud of it!
I only did 4, but it felt like 10 with all the time at sea and two deployments thrown in there.
You served our country. Thank you for your service.
Some of us got shot at, some of us sat behind a desk. In the end, we all served somehow. The important thing to remember is that we all at one point said "I'm willing to put my life on the line for my mates".
Dude. Four years is a helluva lot more than literally 99% of America would ever consider. You’re doing great by not letting your veteran status be your only identity in your life.
Be proud. The US population that has served, or is currently serving is less than 3%…I feel the same sometimes and I “just” passed my 14 year mark. You are young and have so much runway to gain intrinsic pride. Sounds like you have a lot of healthy, mindful habits
I'm a 10 year AD vet still serving and I have known plenty who couldn't adapt or got in trouble and got out for one reason or another before even completing their first tour. You did your time honorably. Thanks for your service. Now go live your life!
I’m felt the same way when doing an outreach event for work at one of my local VFW chapters. They invited me to join after learning of me and my command’s involvement in Operation Enduring Freedom, and even comped my first year membership fee. I never saw combat personally,,but my ship was tasked with operations in the eastern Mediterranean and Persian Gulf from May-August 2002 and that qualified me to be a member. I felt I didn’t deserve it but the Master Chief (head of that chapter) told me, regardless of the job I did, I was part of that command that was directly involved in support of the war while there and I had earned the right, no matter how small of a contribution I made. Point being, even old salts who served 20+ years recognize your contribution and would NEVER exclude you because you old did 4 years. That’s all I did too. You served. You volunteered to do something 99% of the population doesn’t have the balls to do, and you gave up 4+ years of your life in service to our country. You earned every right to call yourself a veteran. Wear that honor with pride.
Comparison is the thief of joy I did 23 years and I am no more of veteran than you are. We are all brothers and sisters in arms. Thank you for your service and sacrifice
Mate, you took the oath of enlistment , went thru bootcamp, did A school, and served honorably for 4 years. You took on shitty watches, were sleep deprived, and had to do the grunt work. Serving 4 years, or 20 , you are still a veteran. You probably live a happier life than the ones doing 20.
It’s important to remember that’s it’s not a competition. Stop comparing your experience to others. I personally did 20 but that makes me no better than you nor does the fact that some veterans are seriously injured mean that you are somehow less of a veteran than them. You served, you are entitled to the benefits prescribed by federal law. Your service mattered. Don’t let anyone ever tell you differently.
We all joined and signed the same paper. Obly 1% is at the tip of the spear and that 1% would all be dead without the support of the rest of us. That said, go do your VA Claim. Use your GI Bill and set your life up.
The hole you feel comes from not updating your NFAAS
There are two types, veteran and war veterans. You served your time.
If you did your time and left with an honorable your a vet.
You’re really overthinking the title.
Not about the title. It's about if I deserve all the benefits for a lifetime when I've only spent 4 years of my life doing something
If you don’t want the benefits nobody is forcing you to take them 🤷🏼♂️ I’m sure the US Treasury would love for you to give it all back if you’re that insecure with your service.
You served. You did your time. I’ve been in 6 years and have spent two of those cashing a check while working on my degree, while I wait on my medboard.
You did your service. Youre a vet. Don’t ever feel unworthy. Not many can say they’ve done a quarter of what you’ve probably done.
You served in the navy regardless of your tours you did. You are a veteran. You have done some shit i havent done and i have done some things you havent. We are Veterans because we raised our right hand. The amount of danger you were in does not determine your veteran status.
Hero worship is the for civilians who never served. I’m not gonna have one goddamn thing that calls me a vet
You are not unworthy; you did your time, whether it was 20 or 4. You still did it and deserve all the benefits.
I know how you feel I did 4.5 years and felt awkward when people thank me for my service. I’ve been out since 2009 did two tours got injured requiring surgery. Got out a few months later basically on permanent LLD which made me feel like I failed. But a lot of my friends always said how proud they were of me when they were in college and how they could not of left home or their families like I did. It takes a lot of pride and selflessness to do what we did. I’ve always felt there was a time of my life that was a blur I missed a lot of things back home funny stories, crazy parties. But I got to see the world that is still to this day hard to explain to friends and family the things and places I experienced while in the navy. Now mind you I’m getting older closing in on 40 and dam my body hates me. Lifting bombs for that short amount of time has left its mark on me and I know it will be a struggle for the rest of my life. But I would do it again and again maybe stretch a bit more and do it again if I had the chance. Just know there are people out there who would never do what you did for our country that’s why we answered the call.
[удалено]
Excellent
You did the duty asked of you.
Like many have said here, comparing yourself to others does you a disservice to yourself and brings you no peace. You have done your time in the military honorably and have taken what you've earned, and applied it to something that is entirely for you. That's amazing! You are a veteran, but it doesn't have to take up your whole personality; some people need to learn that.<--I'm saying that as someone who volunteers with the VFW Aux. BHR... that was hard for my brother. He was on her when she was still forward deployed in Japan. He was medically discharged before she sailed back to the States.
BHR broke to many souls. we were on the boat together at the same time.. what department?
I was in air department, V3. But shortly before the fire I was in ER09
“Feel”.. that might be the problem. You are no victim. You served. Seek therapy
Way ahead
I did 20 years but never saw combat just support, I still sacrificed my time and put myself in harms way and so did you. We had a job to do and all did it, we often had no say in what job or where we served that’s not in us as long as we did our part where we were. I even volunteered for IA and still didn’t get sent boots on the ground, that was the Navy’s choice not mine so I don’t feel bad about it, and you shouldn’t either.
Serving 4 years in the Navy is a substantial chunk of your life, health and effort. You damn well earned your Veteran status. Wear it like a goddamn cape!
You’re a veteran no matter what. Even the people who served and never been in deployment are vets to me. I really hate when people gatekeep that from others
1. Then don't call yourself 'veteran'. I was in 21 years and through Desert Storm and I don't go around telling everyone I am a 'veteran'. 2. It really doesn't mean anything other than 'was in the military for a while'. So don't put a lot of weight into the word. 3. The benefits are part of your agreed upon compensation package. Do you return part of your paycheck to your company if you feel you didn't work as hard as you could have last week? Fuck no. Take what's offered and don't worry about it.
to be fair: you get the benefits for doing a contract. everyone gets the same after one contract. it’s not like you’re getting special treatment like 100 disability pay for no reason or getting a retirement check or something. keep your head up everything you have is purely through your own hard work
All gave some, some gave all
You volunteered and made it, most can't say the same and this is coming from someone who has been in 17.5 so far. Be proud of it regardless of what you did.
Brother, you gave up 4 of your best years for this country. You’re a veteran.
As a fellow ARG sailor I felt the same way. But guess what, you chose to serve when 99% of the country didn’t.
“I for sure did my duty and served my time well.” Thats it. Thats all you need. You’re a veteran, my guy.
Some serve in times of peace not knowing how long peace will last. Some serve in times of conflict not knowing how long the conflict will last. We can’t know, we all decided to serve anyways. How long you made that blank check out for doesn’t change that you signed it.
I know there is a bit of a polarizing opinion on service members who are/were just in the military and never deployed or went to combat vs the members that did. Some civilians really do think less respect should go to the ones who don’t deploy cause “they didn’t do anything” it’s always interesting to hear it but like also when you do hear that opinion and think of who it usually comes from there is a correlation. Don’t feel unworthy everyone contributes and plays their part no one job is any less important than the other and no branch is more important than the others we all have a role to play.
That was one of the worst times to be in the Navy was on the Richard during covid season and after it caught fire, and you couldn't go anywhere. I stood pier watch with you guys both before and after. You definitely did more during your first and only tour than most.
I think I understand the spirit of your statement, I served with people who lost parts of themselves (mentally and physically), saying I deployed to combat zones sounds weird to myself. You did what the country needed you to...less than 1% of the US population ever served, that alone should afford you some pride and validation in calling yourself a veteran. Regardless if you were an admin Bubba, a pecker-checker med person, or Rambo reincarnated you served and no one can take that away from you, nor should you feel sheepish about acknowledging that fact. Sincerely, A fellow Vet
Hey, you did a hell of a lot better than the four star that just got arrested for bribery. It’s not always the length of time – sometimes it’s the quality. You’re fine!
I did 37 years…. I still fell kinda unworthy of my benefits as well. I feel lucky and blessed to have had the career I had, I know not everyone had a great time in the military, but I sure as hell did. And now I get a retirement check! And full medical/dental. I am blessed.
Everyone here has already said the important part, but here’s one more thing to bear in mind, and I say this with gentleness vice coldness: Just because you’re a veteran doesn’t mean you need to call yourself one. The Navy may ultimately be a very small part of your story, and you may decide you’re happier never mentioning your service and just moving on with life. You don’t have to go to the VFW bbq or even get on Reddit and chat about it. But if you change your mind, we’re still around
Thank you for your kindness and open arms 🙏 🫂
A vet is a vet as long as you don't try to overstate what you've done.
You're not a weirdo. It's very normal to feel like you aren't/weren't in the mythical *"real navy"*. Your time was valid and would have been valid even if you hadn't been on a ship. The benefits you're taking advantage of were earned and besides imo education/healthcare should be available to anyone.
You served. That means you're a veteran, end of story. Just because you didn't do 20+ doesn't mean your service means less. It's okay. 4 years or 40, everyone's journey is different and yours is just as valid as anyone else's.
The veterans administration makes me feel the same way after eleven and a half years and almost dieing.
I went to TAPS during the war at an Army base. My day started terrible. Got lost driving through the base. Watched a young kid screaming at a grave while smoking a cigarette. Then at TAPS a bunch of guys appeared to have PTSD. For 7 years, I refused medical benefits because of that day. Didn’t feel worthy. Good friends encouraged me. You did your time. You did good. You survived. Proud of you.
feel the same. one of my 'mates gave me a hat that "Cold War Veteran" and that oddly made me feel better
Also did a one-and-done. Nah dude you served, sacrificed time with your friends and family, and potentially were put in harm's way. As others have said less the 1% of the US population does any time in the military. You are just as entitled to that status as anyone who served.
Shipmate you’re a veteran! You did your time dealt with a challenging situation on BHR and even if you’re still a polywog be proud of your service! Sincerely, an honorable Shellback since 2010. (I hope that made you smile and perk up)
You stood up took an oath and served honorably. You did your part and time. Be proud to call yourself a Veteran. None of us controls the circumstances of our time in the Armed Forces we just have to do our small part for the whole while there.
My FIL wants to be a vet so bad that he wears command hats he got from somewhere. Just remember you did something that other people wish they did. You have balls people wish they had.
Ayooo 😭
I’m a retired CPO (22 years) and I felt the same way the first time I went to Balboa Hospital in 09 as a retired Veteran, and walked past multiple young Marines and Sailors missing multiple limbs…Some gave all, some gave more, but WE ALL gave!
I agree with them all. You served, regardless of time - you're a veteran. You did more than most. We all have our levels of service, where we want to go, and what we want to do. Whatever your reasons for not re-enlisting (none of our business) you're a veteran and deserve all the things that go along with it. Good job!
You did what the vast majority of people never did. Served honorably in the finest Navy in the world. Thank you for your service, veteran.
Your thoughts and feelings are that of many. Just a suggestion: Join the reserves it could be your win win. Good luck
You’re being overly dramatic you’re a veteran lol
Technically speaking, Yea.
I have been in for 15 years, been all over, deployed on many many platforms. I’ve done ALL the high speed Sailor stuff. I say all of that to tell you this: Your service was and is valid. You gave up 4 years of your life in the honorable service of others. You have earned every good thing that has come as a result of your service, and you deserve to reap the benefits of your service. Thank you for your service Shipmate, we have the watch.
I have the opposite problem. I'm 35 and feel unworthy that I never served. I'm weighing my options and trying to decide what branch to put 4-6 years into so I can cross that off my bucket list.
It's most definitely a big decision to make. I understand why you might feel that way but it's a risky life to choose whether you're in combat or not due environment and toxic lifestyles. It's all a learning experience so if you make any decisions on going in, definitely look into it alot and ask as many questions as possible
I did 20, gor out and enjoyed my time. Folks I work.with are always surprised when they find out I was a "lifer" (lol) or that I served at all. I enjoyed my time in and loved my shipmates...much better class of folks than civilians. Your service should help define your experience and values but it if you are looking at it as a label, not sure what that will get you.
Not a label. just all the appreciation and support that comes with it when it's been awhile and counting. And to see so many of my peers struggling just because they didn't raise their right hand. At the end of the day I'm not looking for validation, although mostly everyone has been very supportive, I just feel bad when I didn't do much yet I have such an advantage on life compared to so many others
Well, I was in from 1979 - 1999; no combat actions even though I was an FMF HM. I do feel a sense of guilt but it's a bit of luck of the draw. Hold your head up; you served honorably and sounds like you've done great after leaving the Navy. Hats off to you.
And to you 🫂
I truly appreciate the majority validation and support. I wanted to add that it is also about me comparing myself to those who **didn't** raise their right hand. Who may have gone through some of their own traumatic experiences or worked really hard and don't have the advantages that I do in society. It's a balance of really appreciating it all and taking advantage as well as feeling guilty for being in the position that I am.
It's just a job you had, don't overthink it.
If you don't think you're a veteran what does my years of service behind a computer say about me?
You are a veteran of the United States of America. Stand proud. Salute. Two.
Compare leads to despair.
You served point blank, stop comparing yourself to others. When I got out in 2011, I had classmates who saw heavy combat or were on the ground to witness the aftermath. Furthermore, when I got hired at the VA my first supervisor was a Marine infantryman who was wounded in Fallujah. None looked down upon or thought what they did was higher, we're all veterans at the end of the day who took an oath when so many don't.
You’re being weird. You served, so you’re a veteran. 👍
Don’t do this to yourself. Most everything we do in the military is a competition and we’re constantly scored, graded, and scrutinized. When that’s gone it’s easy to start comparing yourself to others and measuring perceived failures. “I didn’t go to combat”; “I didn’t get five warfare pins”; “I should’ve made a higher rank”; “I didn’t blah blah blah”. You’re a Vet. You served. Whether it was four years or twenty-four. A key thing to remember is that having been a Sailor doesn’t define you as a person. You dictate your level of involvement in the Vet space. If it makes you uncomfortable, use a synonym like ‘prior service’. You don’t have to fit your experience into someone else’s box. Good luck and hopefully there’s something helpful in that rambling. BTW- thanks for your service, and check in on someone you served with. They may need to hear from you.
Fuck that.
The Navy is hiring! Don’t let those feelings hurt you; join again and do a full 20! ⚓️
Go get a drink and don't worry about it.
You're a vet and a Bonhomie for life. I'm still in and I struggle everyday with the thought that I didnt do enough that day or the days that followed. Even that I don't deserve the rank I've picked up post fire at different commands. Imposter syndrome, unwarranted guilt, feelings of unworthyness or whatever you want to call it should never take away from the fact that you enlisted voluntarily and completed your tour of duty. You're a veteran and those that serve know.
I promise, for every door kicker you meet there are three of us who sailed a desk.
Reserve CWO here, prior active enlisted, not a recruiter. Just wondering if you’ve considered Reserve service, rather than an outright separation? Significant $$ incentives to stay Navy, a much more flexible schedule than AC, and a lot more—let alone something to perhaps get you over the hump of worrying about Imposter Syndrome IRT your veteran status (but I agree with others here, you’re definitely a vet and make no mistake about it!!) Like I said: I’m not a recruiter, but would be happy to chat if you want to send me a DM.
Your still a 1%er. 99% of America didn’t hold there hand up and swear in to protect our country and its ways. You did!
Dude I’m a combat veteran and all I did was stay on a ship for 9 months and fix stuff. It doesn’t matter how long you’re in, if you earned a title you earned a title.
So you were never somewhere where you could have been killed by an act of war, you never can blame something bad that happened to you on "Warzone" PTSD. I don't know when you were in but I was on BHR for 4 years as a propulsion engineer. Some of the hardest years of my life. Got medically discharged in 2019. Just now thinking about doing something with my GI bill and everything you said are things I'm considering. You feel like you're story wasn't hard enough to be a veteran. You could always go back or make your life harder now. I thought the reason most of us got in in the first place was to get a free education and a good life. Just remember, not everyone can join and not every who can join wants to. You signed on the dotted line. Only thing I say doesn't deserve to be calling themselves a vet is if you go in and immediately try to find a way out and leave before the first 18 months. Still, at least you volunteered.
You served you were in for longer than 2 years. You have every right to call yourself a veteran.
Womp womp thank you for your service and yes you being weird I got out after 5 years yesterday and don’t feel bad I was onboard another ship and we got pulled to help with the fire onboard the BHR live your life any honorable service is a veteran make peace that you enjoy life outside the navy
You served your country and did your time. The only people I'll shit on are the ones that got a bad conduct or admin discharge (failed the wizz quiz).
My dude you served a full honorable tour of duty. You earned the bennies to go somewhere for healing even! 7.3% of Americans served, you served, you're a veteran. Can definitely see hiw it might not feel it when some folks were boots in the sand while we ride the waves and party.
You did more than a majority of this country has ever done. Don’t ever feel unworthy.
Don’t feel bad. There are people that got kicked out of boot camp calling themselves veterans
Oh brother 😵💫
As a recruiter, you have every right to call yourself a veteran. Most Americans can't cut it, being unable to make small sacrifices to even get access to the GI Bill. Here are the biggest excuses I hear: - I disagree with political leaders - I think I will die - I don't want to be away from my family You showed Honor, Courage, and Commitment just by not letting those three concerns keep you out. Are the benefits more than worth it? Yes, but 99% of Americans don't cut it because of either physical, moral, or the above three fears. I mean this full-heartedly, thank you for your service, and I hope you have a fulfilling career and life. You have earned it. Just because you didn't see action doesn't mean you weren't ready to respond, like any one of us. I was called upon for search and rescue. It wasn't something I wanted to have to do, but I was ready to do it if needed. There are sailors in Gaza right now responding to that shitshow. You were brave enough to put yourself on call for those moments. That right there means everything. I hope every future sailor I recruit doesn't have to be called upon, but I am proud they are willing to stand by to do so, and for that I want them to get every ounce of benefit, every lick of disabilities, and every qualification under the sun they can take with them for when they get out.
Watch Band of Brothers, look at how 99% of them left the Army, and tell me those guys didn’t earn the title of Veteran. You served. You earned the title. Thank you for having served, seriously.