Why Did You Decide to Stay in the Military?

Military service often begins as a journey of duty and commitment but can evolve into a lifelong passion. For me, the initial contract felt like a period of growth and exploration, packed with unparalleled experiences that broadened my horizons and gave me a unique perspective on the world. However, by the end of that period, there was an underlying itch I hadn't quite scratched. This itch struck at the core of why I decided to re-enlist and ultimately stay in the military for an extended period.

The Pull of Military Service

After the initial contract, I found myself pondering the unexplored aspects of my military career. Though I had gained immense experiences, seen multiple parts of the world, and witnessed captivating events, there was always something more to discover. For some, the satisfaction of achieving milestones or the allure of glitz and glamor in military life might drive them to re-enlist. However, for me, it was about more than just duty or excitement.

The Reserves: A Strategic Move

After my re-enlistment, I chose to join the reserves. My motivations were multifaceted. First, there were some advantages to staying in the active reserves. Despite the occasional "dumb" moments, this ongoing connection had far more benefits than drawbacks. It provided a sense of community and continuity, giving me a way to maintain my military identity without the full-time commitment. Adding to that, achieving the 10-year mark was a significant milestone, offering a solid foundation for future opportunities.

The Path to Commissioning

Another key factor was the possibility of commissioning. If my plans ultimately led to a 20-year service commitment, securing a commission could be a valuable asset. Commissioning not only means a higher rank but also a better adaptive role within the military structure, aligning well with my career ambitions.

The QRF Spirit: The Core of Military Service

Central to my decision to stay was the unquestioning camaraderie found within the ranks of the military. The Quick Reaction Force (QRF) concept is a powerful illustration of this unbreakable bond. QRF is defined as being prepared to respond immediately in an emergency, regardless of the situation or familiarity of the unit calling for assistance. This spirit of camaraderie transcends supply lines, unit boundaries, and even states, as it's a shared commitment to one's fellow service members.

During deployment, whether it's a sister platoon with whom you've shared life and death experiences, or an unfamiliar National Guard company from another state, the QRF principle holds that all are 'one of us'. This sense of belonging and mutual support is deeply ingrained in the military culture. It's the driving force behind the extensive camaraderie and understanding among service members, even when coming from varied backgrounds.

Broader Military Community

The essence of the QRF spirit plays out not just within QRF but throughout the entire military community. The worldwide travel, the exposure to different cultures, and the shared experiences all contribute to a deeper sense of unity. This sense of community extends beyond military service, fostering a network of lifetime friends and a support system that's invaluable both during and after service.

The Decision to Rejoin

Another pivotal factor in my decision to rejoin the military was the financial advantage. After a break from service, I found that the military job I had previously held on active duty paid significantly more than any civilian position. This financial incentive, along with the strong community and camaraderie, made the decision to re-enlist a clear and rational choice.

Stockholm Syndrome

Finally, there's a psychological phenomenon known as Stockholm Syndrome that may have played a role. This complex emotional connection can form between hostages and their captors, often leading to a deep loyalty and a desire to stay in a situation despite the initial trauma. Similarly, the bonds formed in military service can create a sense of duty and loyalty that goes beyond the initial motivations for joining.

In conclusion, my decision to stay in the military was a blend of personal growth, financial benefits, and the unbreakable bonds of QRF and military community. Each year in service brought its own unique challenges and rewards, but the QRF principle encapsulated the deepest satisfaction. The military wasn't just a job but a way of life, and the overwhelming sense of belonging and camaraderie couldn't be matched elsewhere.