I trusted the military to make sure I went into a combat zone properly equipped.
I believed that my doctors at the VA would address my ankle condition without putting my life on hold in such a manner that it would ruin me financially.
I thought that my issues with PTSD and anxiety would be addressed with dignity.
Sadly, my optimism and trust fucked me. I signed a contract saying that I was willing to give my life for my country and in return, I get treated like a third-rate citizen.
What did I do wrong? I served my country. That is the only thing that I see that I’ve done wrong.
I won’t talk a lot about 9/11, but this article really struck a nerve with me.
As a person that joined the military before 9/11, I will admit, I didn’t think that there was much of a chance that I would see any real action. I joined because it would help me get to know people in the area that I was moving to and it was something I didn’t think I could do. It was a way for me to gain independence and feel confident enough about moving for school (and the extra money was good, too).
When the events unfolded on 9/11, I knew that I would have to pay the piper. I signed up knowing that there was a chance that I would have to answer the call of duty. I don’t agree with the war, but I went because my unit needed me and it was something that I would possibly never have a chance to do again.
That day changed my life…while I don’t directly knew anyone that died during the attacks, it was the last day I lived at home and the day I had to grow up. It was the day I had to step up and leave the comfortable life I had behind to do what I sign up to do.
There are many veterans with a story like mine. People who didn’t think, but just did. What bothers me about this article is that they are labeling it as a vet’s view of 9/11, but this person says that 9/11 played no part in their choice to join and he didn’t have a connection. It seems like some kid that lost his way and wanted money for school, so he wanted Uncle Sam to hook him up. To me, joining the military and “…never really thought about fighting at all…” is somewhat irresponsible. I tell everyone that I know that is thinking about joining that we live in a time that it’s at least a possibility that they will have to fight and that needs to factor in their decision.
This kid went to basic with a guy that joined because of 9/11. I know as time passes (and maybe even now) there are going to be no connection to the events of that day in the reasons people join. But this article is jumping on the NEVER FORGET bandwagon and if they wanted to do that, they could have told a story of someone who was directly affected by that day.
I will now jump off my soapbox and post more OKCupid fails and reblogging you awesome people.
xo, Dottie
