Lessons from Military Training: Hard-Won Wisdom

During the grueling and transformative experience of basic military training, a multitude of lessons are imparted, but perhaps the most profound and enduring are those learned the hard way. In this article, we explore some key lessons underscored by personal experiences and the invaluable wisdom gained from a decade of military service.

Lesson 1: Do Not Touch a DI

The Incident: One day, while navigating an obstacle course, I faced a challenge that tested my balance and determination. As I swung from a rope towards a crevasse filled with slimy water, I made a hurried adjustment for balance that unfortunately brought my hand into contact with my Drill Instructor (DI).

The Consequence: With a very loud and commanding voice, he made it clear: 'You do not touch a DI.' He then placed his boot firmly on my behind, and I was sent back to the beginning of the obstacle course. It was a harsh and painful reminder of the unwritten and yet deeply ingrained rules of the training environment.

Lesson 2: Live in the Moment, Let Go of Personal Grievances

The Key Takeaway: Military life is not about individual glory or personal vendettas; it is about the synergy of the team. Here are the key takeaways from my experience:

Be Present: Concentrate on the task at hand rather than anticipating the next challenge or dwelling on past mistakes. Team First: Good performance is not just about you; it is about contributing positively to the team's success. Optimize Under Adversity: Even when you are at your worst, strive to bring your best to the table.

Lesson 3: Prioritize Sleep and Self-Care

The Experience: I came into basic training with an overconfidence in my readiness, having spent months preparing physically and mentally. However, I quickly learned a valuable lesson regarding the importance of sleep and self-care.

The Importance: Lack of sleep can significantly impair performance and morale. Instead of just writing letters, I focused on ensuring I got the rest I needed to recover fully. This lesson carries over to the rest of my life, reminding me to balance my intense commitments with essential downtime.

Lesson 4: Lessons from a Legacy of Service

The Background: My family has a rich history of military service, dating back to the French and Indian Wars. Every male in my lineage has served in a combat arms role. This legacy fueled my preparation for basic training, and I felt more than ready for the challenge ahead.

The Realization: Despite my extensive preparation as a high-altitude free-fall skydiver and SCUBA rescue diver, and with a consistent practice of ASVAB scoring, physical fitness, and mental resilience, I still faced unforeseen challenges. The most significant regret is not training harder before I arrived at basic training.

Lessons from Military Training: Traversing a Career

The Examined Life: Over the years, as I progressed through various levels of training and attained different levels of responsibility, I observed that not everyone has the heart or the drive to complete the grueling journey. Several individuals struggled and had to be medically discharged, a reality that I found both humbling and sobering.

The Underlying Truth: While I may have prepared thoroughly, ultimately, mental and physical endurance are determined not just by training but by one's intrinsic desire and resilience. This realization underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing those capabilities early on.

Conclusion: Reflection and Growth

Ubuntu, a philosophy from Southern African tribes, poetically expresses the understanding that one is only as human as the people around one. My experiences in the military reinforce this notion. It is a community-driven journey, and every lesson learned is a piece of the puzzle that contributes to the collective success and resilience of the team.

In conclusion, while the physical and mental challenges of military training are real and intense, the lessons imparted extend far beyond the barracks. They shape not just a soldier, but a person prepared to face the complexities of life with humility and determination.