Reflections of a Military Career: Rough Moments and Lessons Learned
My military career has been a journey full of both triumph and tribulation. From the roughest moments of my time in the military to the pride I take in my service, these experiences have forged a strong sense of identity and resilience within me.
The Most Harrowing Moment: Unreliable Aircraft
One of the most challenging and life-altering events during my time as a SH-2F Seasprite pilot was when I realized I did not trust the platform I was assigned to fly. The SH-2F Seasprite had a history of causing the deaths of several of my colleagues not because of any operational mistakes, but due to inherent airframe failures. This incident was a wake-up call that resonated deeply within me.
The loss of Dwight Greer, killed during a skilled yet fated landing, was the final straw. I should have resigned my commission prior to this tragic event, recognizing the risks involved with the aircraft. However, I chose to soldier on. Over the next decade, I managed to climb the ranks and become the NATOP's officer, accumulating over 2500 hours in the Seasprite. While I am immensely relieved to have stopped flying, the memory of these moments still haunts me.
The Impact of War
Another significant rough moment came when I returned from the Vietnam War. The world had changed in my absence, with people I knew and cared for altered beyond recognition. While some welcomed me back with open arms, expressing gratitude for my service, others ignored me or were outright cruel. Yet, the act of wearing my military colors and being thanked for what I did brought a much greater sense of fulfillment than what I had received before.
I recognize the significance of each moment and the impact it has had on my life. The service I provided, though not always acknowledged positively, has been a beacon of honor and courage that I cherish deeply.
The Shoulder of Responsibility: Autopsies and Sadness
One of the most emotionally taxing duties of my military career was performing autopsies on fellow service members who died while serving their country. Over the years, I conducted autopsies on several pilots who lost their lives in a helicopter crash and several soldiers who tragically perished. These are memories that I carry with me, a constant reminder of the human cost that lies behind the uniform and the duties that come with it.
A Disappointing Turning Point: Rejection from the Military
Perhaps the most disappointing period of my military career was when I was turned away from every branch of the armed forces due to my migraines, despite my desire to serve. This rejection was particularly gut-wrenching because I had dreamed of becoming a music therapist for the Veterans Administration. The realization that I would never fulfill this dream because of my recurring migraines was a significant letdown, both professionally and personally.
My military career ended before it could truly begin, a stark reminder of the limitations that sometimes impose themselves on individuals despite their best intentions and qualifications. This experience has taught me the importance of perseverance, even in the face of adversity and seemingly insurmountable odds.