Time in the military between 1964 and 1966 shaped me in profound ways. It was not just one teacher who influenced me, but rather the unique combination of experiences that came from being away from home for the very first time. The vast number of people I encountered, each hailing from different walks of life and various locations across the United States, provided invaluable lessons that extended far beyond the classroom. The school of hard knocks truly became my best teacher, as I learned to adapt, persevere, and appreciate the diverse perspectives around me. These experiences not only forged my sense of resilience but also deepened my understanding of camaraderie, commitment, and what it means to serve a greater purpose. Each moment spent navigating challenges alongside my fellow servicemen and women was a steppingstone that contributed to my personal growth and shaped the person I am today.
From 1964 to 1966, during the Cold War, the U.S. became more involved in Vietnam, a period characterized by escalating military presence and political tension. I vividly experienced the early buildup of troops, which increased dramatically from about 16,000 in 1964 to over 180,000 by the end of 1966, reflecting a significant commitment to the conflict. This time was marked by intense training and the looming possibility of combat for those poised to be deployed, as the nation grappled with its foreign policy decisions. Friends and fellow soldiers around me prepared for the arduous journey ahead, sharing hopes and fears about what awaited them in the jungles of Southeast Asia. I was sent to Germany instead of Vietnam, where I engaged in various military exercises and learned valuable skills, yet I will always wonder why I was assigned there, particularly since everyone I was drafted with went to Vietnam, leaving me with a lingering sense of curiosity about the path not taken and the experiences I missed during that tumultuous era.
I learned to adapt quickly, whether it was navigating basic training, handling diverse equipment, or facing the uncertainty of deployment to Viet Nam, where every day brought new challenges and opportunities for growth. For many, this period forged a profound sense of identity and purpose, even if it came with hardship and moments of doubt. This transformative time in my life not only changed my outlook on life but was also instrumental in shaping how I treated people around me. During those intense experiences, I discovered that most people are inherently good and are trying to do what is best in the situations they find themselves in, often showing remarkable resilience and kindness in the face of adversity. That period was a life-changing era for me, filled with lessons that continue to resonate. I will never regret that I served and am incredibly proud to say that I am a United States veteran.
TomT2.0 