May, marked officially as Military Appreciation Month, is a special month for both those in and out of the military. Not only do we pause on Memorial Day to remember the sacrifice and service of those who gave all, but the month also holds several other military anniversaries and events, including Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Armed Forces day. Join us as we honor the service and sacrifice of members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, Space Force and National Guard as well as the contribution of their spouses.
Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month in 1999 to ensure the nation was given the chance to publicly show their appreciation for troops past and present. Hear from two of our veterans, and help us recognize all BHGers who served our country and are serving our patients today.
Linda M. Stockstill, The Littlest Sgt., Mobile, AL
I had not seen a cockroach until the Air Force marched us to our intake processing and barracks in San Antonio, TX. There was an amazingly large bug standing guard over an Oreo cookie charging anyone who got too close to his treasure. I asked people, “What is that thing?” They said, “It’s a cockroach. Haven’t you ever seen a cockroach?” At just 17 and hailing from Pacifica, CA, cockroaches had not yet crossed my radar.
My brother, Larry, and I had joined together on the buddy system. The rest of the recruits came from all the states of the U.S., from every strata of the economy; yet in that first day we had a collective realization that we may have been lied to by our recruiters. That first night many cried themselves to sleep, including me. Rousted with just 3 hours of sleep, we marched to the chow hall to get breakfast. There was so much food. They cooked your eggs to order. The morning looked so much brighter.
After six weeks of basic training, we were all sent to various bases to be trained in our chosen career field. I had joined the military to get an education because I couldn’t afford college, so I went to Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MI for nine months of tech school to become a microwave equipment technician. In 1973, the military was only 4% female, 96% male and I was usually the only woman in my classes. After Tech school I was stationed at Bergstrom AFB in Austin, TX at what is now known as Austin-Bertstrom International Airport.
I used my GI bill to go to college, and had a couple of children along the way. The best things I ever did were having my children and joining the Air Force. I earned the education I wanted: an associates degree in Computer Technology, another in Accounting, then a bachelor’s degree in Psychology/Sociology, and a master’s in Mental Health Counseling. If it were not for all my benefits I don’t know how I would have been able to accomplish all of this.
Gregory Carbins, Columbia, MO
Truly the best 8 years of my life. (1987-1995) Looking back on that time (at age 54) I wish I had stayed in for the full 20 years. I enlisted right out of high school. The experience taught me all I need to know about discipline, respect, and comradery. I would do it all over again, if I could. Being a veteran is one of the proudest accomplishments of my life. I was able to see parts of the country I might never have been able to see. Also, I spent 18 months in South Korea during the 1988 Seoul Olympics. I credit my military service for making me the man that I am today.
All of our veterans have stories and life-changing experiences that they could share if space allowed. If you have a team member who is also a veteran, reach out in celebration of National Military Service Month.
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