While in the military, nothing helped me overcome challenges more than the camaraderie I had with my fellow Marines. I truly believe suffering together is the single most bonding experience you can have with other people. Even when times seemed harsh, even when it sucked, I could rely on the guys to my left and right to have my six: “Hey, we’re all doing this together. We’re all in this together. We have each other.”
I still have very close relationships with my buddies in the Marine Corps. When there were periods of down time for personal activity, I would often work out and it became almost therapeutic for me. I work out pretty consistently today, but it’s a habit and a hobby I started doing in the Marine Corps. It is obviously tough, even just to find the motivation some days. But the best things for you are the hardest things to do. That’s what I believe at least, and again this mindset stems from my experiences and interactions from both infantry units I served with.
I still try to maintain good communication with some of the guys I have served with. The company I was assigned with on my second deployment (2/7) has a Facebook group that people post regularly on. One of my platoon commanders, Lt. Culver (Capt. now), messages me now and then, usually around my birthday and the holidays. I have buddies in Houston and Dallas who I try to see every time I’m in the area. Unfortunately, my unit has lost a few marines shortly after getting out. Which is why I try to check in with as much of these guys as I can.
One of the greatest feelings we got to share together is coming home from that first deployment. I remember almost not knowing what to do with myself with all this time off after seven months of non-stop work. It was surreal, suddenly being on leave, having freedom. It was the little things—going on a drive, having a beer with friends—that I noticed myself enjoying so much more because of how hard life was for me just a few months ago. You tend to not appreciate things as much until they are taken away. It was all very humbling; there is far less I take for granted now.
