"Worried They Will Miss the War"

[mombee]

Everyone wants to know for certain that they can do the job well for which they are trained and for which they are being paid. For an enlisted aircraft mech, this happens every time the aircraft's wheels go in the well at the end of the runway. For a combat infantryman, the benchmark is not so clear cut. Forgive them their over exuberance of language in putting forth this desire. I too am glad we have thousands of young men and women each year clamoring to be placed in this position.

 

[jbrown]

I understand the cadet’s comments. I just witnessed a few very young officers whose wish was to serve in combat. Not because they like war, but because of a deep sense or feeling that they need to be here, oops, there. As one told me, “I was rained to do a job and therefore I seeked the chance to do it” I also used to tell Marines that trained for combat that combat was the ultimate test of one’s honor and courage. To have done your job and duty and to survive means you passed that test. Now for my final thought on this topic…..As I told a recent USMA Grad (Class of 08’) that I met….I am afraid that there will be more than enough war or chance for combat in the future…even for the classes entering this year. Sadly that includes my daughter.

TPG, I agree completely, and it also includes my daughter.

The only thing I would add is that for a young LT to do what they are trained for, should the need arise, which is to lead his troops in combat, he will need the experience that can only be gained by being there. But until he gets that experience, he should be thankful for, and rely upon those NCO's and the Non-rates also, who have the experience from being there.

They will heckle him, they will have a lower amount of respect than had he already been there, but if he's properly trained, which he will be, and if he's smart enough to pull on their experience, the respect will be there when it's needed and the experience will come in time.

Everyone is a boot at one time or another, and everyone has someone that has more experience than they do. Learning to deal with that is just another part of being a new butter bar.

JB