The Hardest Aspects of Military Service: Deployments and Goodbyes

Deployments and goodbyes are often the hardest parts of military service, but they also highlight the strength of the bonds formed in the service. This article explores these challenging aspects, drawing from personal experiences and reflecting on the enduring nature of military camaraderie.

Deployments: The Non-Stop Duty

In the military, the job must get done no matter the conditions. Be it scorching heat, freezing cold, pouring rain, or an unexpected sandstorm, duties must still be carried out with the utmost dedication. A vivid example comes from my own experience as an airman stationed at Camp Sather in Baghdad, Iraq.

Our air traffic control tower was manned jointly by U.S. Air Force controllers and Iraqi civilian controllers. While the U.S. controllers were armed and trained for various scenarios, the Iraqi counterparts were not. Concerned about potential threats, an airman was assigned to provide 24/7 security to ensure no weapons were smuggled into the tower. This "shoot/no-shoot" training and security protocol might seem humorous, but it underscored the serious nature of our mission.

While the job was daunting, the perks were many. The tower was equipped with a desk, a computer with internet access, movies, a DSN line to call home, and even deliveries from the cafeteria. The Iraqi controllers, who spoke at least some English, were also quite pleasant. However, the day-to-day task of climbing 14 floors just to do our duty was nothing glamorous. This highlights the dedication and resilience of the air force members.

Goodbyes: The Emotional Weight

Military service often involves frequent rotations, making it inevitable to say goodbye to comrades. Unlike civilian work, these separations can be emotional and impactful. Deployments may bring together individuals from various backgrounds, and the brotherhood that forms can be unbreakable.

The bond formed over shared experiences, deployment, and sacrifice can sometimes seem unbreakable. Yet, the realities of service often mean saying goodbye to these very same individuals. This is particularly true when someone is sent back to their civilian life or to a new unit thousands of miles away. A year-long roommate might suddenly depart, leaving behind memories and relationships built over countless hours of shared experiences.

While technology has made it easier to stay in touch, the distance and the frequency of such separations can make it challenging to maintain relationships. It’s a poignant reminder of the transient nature of military life and the emotional toll it takes.

Conclusion

Military service includes its fair share of challenges, but the stories of deployments and goodbyes starkly illustrate the unique dynamics of the service. The dedication, camaraderie, and the deep emotional connections are what define military life, making deployments and goodbyes among the hardest parts of military service. These experiences not only test one's resolve but also forge unbreakable bonds and shared memories that last a lifetime.