Wes Moore: How to talk to veterans about the war
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- Опубликовано: 22 май 2014
- Wes Moore joined the US Army to pay for college, but the experience became core to who he is. In this heartfelt talk, the the paratrooper and captain-who went on to write "The Other Wes Moore"-explains the shock of returning home from Afghanistan. He shares the single phrase he heard from civilians on repeat, and shows why it's just not sufficient. It's a call for all of us to ask veterans to tell their stories - and listen.
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As a vet myself, I'd like to make it clear that the only duty a civilian has to us, is to influence their politicians and leaders into making sure that those who do serve do not end up dying for the wrong reasons. If our war is abroad yours is surely at home, making sure we aren't being thrown to the fire for nothing.
-Thank you
That's an excellent point Richard. Thank you for your courage in pointing that out. As a person from the Middle East, I can only confirm what you are saying. In fact the movie " Vice" has to be "obligatory" in every school, so that young Americans can see how their politicians don't give a damn about their lives and the lives of the people elsewhere, but are only moved by greed. 4.500 American soldiers and 600.000 people from Irak died. A country of 20 million people is destroyed. Is this what they call a " service" ??
Hats off to you Mr. I sadly think this may be the only way to properly address such a problem
Amen.
Amen, Brother.
A fellow Vet
Richard- well put brother.
As someone who attended the same Military School when Wes was the ranking student Cadet Leader. He was an inspiration back then, he played a crucial, yet unknown role that transformed a troubled out of control youth, into the man I am today. Wes is not only a born leader that leads by example, but a Rhodes Scholar, a Whitehouse Fellow, an Author, A businessman, an Organizer and Combat Veteran (CPT, USArmy). But before he was all those things, he was anothered troubled youth with no direction...Valley Forge Military Academy shaped our morals and character as much as our brains. We will see more of Wes Moore in the next 10 years and can expect great things if he ever decides to run for Public Office, He would truly make a great Independent, not be swayed by one side or the other. When that day comes, I would drop whatever, and once again have him lead, I will do my part in whatever capacity needed...Ive been around my fair share of leaders- business, academia, public officials, military and know leadership when i see it
Great speech. Opens my eyes to the reality of what vets have gone through. I never even considered that they may acutally WANT to talk about their experiences, I'll keep that in mind next time I meet a veteran. I have so much respect for people in the military, I hope they know how much they're appreciated.
Just remember war and combat is different for every vet. Some will want to talk about it and others would rather forget everything. As a vet. I would just say thank you and ask them what their job was in the military, usually we all like to tell stories about our jobs. Second DO NOT ask them if they killed anyone, because the ones that have might get angry or even violent or just walk away. The ones that brag about how many terrorist they killed are more than likely lying about it and probably never fired a shot at anything other than a target. Killing is very personal and most struggle with that guilt the rest of their lives. If they do want to get it off of their chest, just listen with sincerity and do not try to make them think everything is going to be ok. Honestly nothing you say can make them feel better about what they have done or lived through, each have to find their own way. Just letting them know you care makes all the difference. A handshake, warm smile and a thank you is enough to put a smile on any vet. God bless and Peace.
Jeffrey Harrison well said. I cannot believe people ask if you've killed someone.
MsGnor You have no idea how many ask that, usually the younger they are the more they ask. Usually it goes welcome home, glad you are ok, Did you kill anyone? I never understood the fascination with some people on taking the life of another human being. It is not something anyone should want to do, it is just survival, no glory, no celebration, just a very quiet ride back with everyone staring at their boots, knowing you are not the same man you where just a few hours earlier.
OK, that might have sounded a little corny, but that is what I remember thinking at the time. Sorry.
Jeffrey Harrison Not corny, my mate said the same thing. He fought in Angola. I think younger people are so into playstation etc. It's all very exciting with no consequences. Perhaps hearing vets like Wes talk about real life war will open some eyes, young and old. Anyway, thanks for your message :)
Jeffrey Harrison I know this is old, but i actually disagree with you a bit, i think everyone should feel free to ask how many people they have killed, but i know in Australia, unless they are in an SF unit, it's unlikely they have seen heavy combat. The reason i say that people can ask, is because the majority of people i know talk about it freely and do not have a problem with it, and i feel the same way. Before you ask, Yes I'm a vet, and yes I've seen combat.
This guy is an amazing public speaker
Be thankful people are "thanking you for your service". When we got back from Vietnam, we were told to hide our uniform and don't talk about the war or face being called murderers and baby killers. I'm just happy to see you guys getting warm welcomes this time.
that's just sick, l don't know if it'll mean much but l thank you for your service and everything you've sacrificed and l hope to join the military someday
Charlie Kaye thank you for your service
Here's the way to show a Vietnam veteran respect.
Charlie Kaye, welcome home brother.
Also not all of us who came home from Afghanistan got warm welcomes. I returned home in civilian clothes, and was ordered to do so quietly. I returned home the vary same day that the Iraq war got started. Most people have forgotten about the fact that we were in Afghanistan first.
I do miss the beautiful landscapes of the area that I was in. I miss my unit also.
My farther served in the Vietnam war as a mechanic after conscription, the war and the welcome back still has him shut down at any mention of war. He is now 71 and I wish I could get the story’s our of him, but he just shuts down. Here in Australia we have a society just for Vietnam veterans and I do everything I can to help them out, because it feels like it is to late for a thank you for your service as they are ashamed of it. But this goes out to all Vietnam veterans here and abroad thank you for you’re service and you did your best.
I've been returning the thank you for my service, with "thank you for remembering us" 21+ years USMC and USAF. 37 years of my life in service, 21+ on Active duty during 2 era's...
I am a combat veteran and I wish somebody would talk to me just like the way he says, everyone asks that stupid question have you shot anyone, that is something you do not ask, we soldiers didn't join to fight, we didn't join to cause destruction, we joined for other reasons, I joined after 9/11 in 2010 at the age of 24 because something was missing, and the military gave it to me. I felt I needed to do more for my country, i felt like I owed a debt to the country for all my freedoms I was given, that I didn't earn. I joined to defend this country and the people. I fought for the people who called us baby killers, murderers, rapists and thieves, I fought for their rights, their rights to say what they wanted when they wanted where they wanted to live how they wanted to live where they wanted to work and what dreams they wanted to achieve. The military has given everyone that freedom and to this day I still hope for that one day someones asks me the questions that this videos states.
@@jasirtyr8640 that's a highly debatable and sensitive topic, I find it interesting that you seem to know it all, all thought there are many different views
Can I ask you some questions sir? I'd really like to pick your brain. I know it's been 5 years since you commented, but I would love to have the chance to hear how war and your service effected you. Who your brothers were. What you ate daily. How large was your camp? How many people did you meet that were indigenous that liked you? And many more like this. I'm honestly curious, and you seem like you'd want to tell someone
you can help people instead of killing them. were you really so stupid as a kid, to think that you were helping anybody but the politicians?? as a youth in the 1970s, i was ready to go to Canada to avoid the draft. It ended four months before i turned 18. Even as a 16 and 17 year old, I perceived the evil of our nations leaders. HOw dum were and/or are you? I have volunteered 45000 hours unpaid labor helping disadvantaged, homeless, mentally ill, and elderly people to be a service, not gone to kill for a free education. Dont give me your bullshit. YOU ALL ARE GLORIFYING MURDER BECAUSE YOU DONT WANT TO BE SEEN FOR WHAT IS OBVIOUSLY TRUE ABOUT YOU- AND BECAUSE YOU DONT MAN UP, MANY MORE YOUTH GO AND ARE DESTROYED AS THEY KILL FOR THE BEAST- YOU EVIL FUCKS.
okay baby-killer-tell me.In what way imaginable, did you protect my freedoms that were never in danger? Would you please tell me einstein, how killing all those civilians who had never dreamed of invading the US would endanger my freedoms? Why did millions of lives get lost because stupid gullible warrior sheep who cannot think for themselves serve evil leaders, just as bad as hitler, but who were better actors and liars. Ignorant masses aligned with evil power is the worst enemy of liberty and righteousness.
@@anthony9376 i dont think he asked any questions of those he killed.
The comments some of you people are making... I don't care if you dislike war, stop blaming young people that join the military.
dislike war?? how about offended by people who are out there touting how wonderful they are for murdering and oppressing other peoples, for doing the dirty work willingly for the most evil and powerful people in the world?? how about hating their subserviance parading as strength and heroism?? somebodoy here glorifying the evil. And instead of apologizing and repenting, he has the audacity to tell us to thank him for being a fuckin murderer.
Fr. People are just so angry they will blame anyone they can.
it's amazing how many ignorant people there are posting in this comments section... and google him, yes he was an army officer receiving his commission through ROTC after graduating from Johns Hopkins. He was also a Rhodes Scholar and went straight to Oxford University to get a masters in international relations, after which he came back, put the uniform on, and deployed shortly after as a Captain in the US Army. Looking at his credentials, he's clearly smarter than anyone in this thread
You included?
Joseph George By saying anyone this thread, you can infer that he's implying that he's also included... doesn't take a genius to figure that one out
And with a name like "+Poopy Poops", I'm sure you're a genius!
When did I say that I was one? You need to work on your reading comprehension there bud.
+Poopy Poops, I think you need to figure out what comprehension means. Never mind, you may not have enough brain cells left to do that.
This was incredible. He is so very poetic with this talk; especially at the end. As a fellow vet, it chokes me up a bit as I know the very feeling he's conveyed.
You have 'Thank you for your service!' in the US.
In Russia we have 'I didn't send you there!'
Would you mind giving me an idea of what the Russian Federation's population generally thinks of the pro-russian fighters in E Ukraine?
Generally we don't care about them now and we did't care about them five months ago. There are hard times in Russia now. Not as hard as it was in the 90's, when I had to stay in a 400 meter queue for one hour to buy a loaf of bread, but not as easy as it was three years ago. We have our things to do, and we don't care about the whole Ukraine. Except those who have ukrainian relatives. I do, but the only thing I've done were the words: 'My doors are always are open for you, brother.'
P.S. Sorry for keep you waiting.
I like that better. (I didn't send you there)
I just posted that I don't like the "thank you for your service.." bit 'cause I was dragged to the Ardennes kicking & screaming & dumped in a foxhole. (WWII)
I performed pretty well for someone in a permanent daze of disbelief! but
I'd rather tell you one of my "war stories" & see if you like it.
edgar: couldn't wait to go there myself... John Wayne and such B.S.. The disbelief occurred with the first day. My answer to," thank you for your service.", has always been, " thanks for your support.". People just don't understand the term "cannon fodder". Welcome home brother. Memories will die when they close the lid on us.
I remember once meeting a Vietnam vet at a action
Being who I am I try to talk about guns, and I ask him if he had a shotgun and if he uses semi-action or pump-action.
Guy told me semi's, I ask him why and he showed me his thumb was missing from his left hand.
_He told me what few veterans ever say, their war stories
A Vietnamese group was using little kids to trow grenades and ambush his troops, he lost his thumb blocking a grenade and was forced to either kill or be killed.
A saw a look in his eye that I've seen to many times with my brother after he got back, the look that tells people "I've seen the evil in the world, and to fight it I had to become it"
At that point I was shocked, but I stuck ought my right hand and said "Thank you for your service", his face smiled, knowing it wasn't all pointless bloodshed and knowing people appreciate the sacrifices of youth, mental health, limbs and worse of all possibly death.
I've had plenty of friends and teachers that served, those rare occasions where I see them like that I don't know what to say or do, but I still thank people for their service because I've head what they've been trough. It's rough
No one loves peace more than a soldier, because no one understands war like they do.
Spot on.....
The negative thoughts expressed in the comments are a little disheartening, but that is just the way of things in a median that allows free flow of communication. I don't agree with those negative statements, but I feel no need to take action or report it to people who may also disagree with it. I served 8 years - Wes Moore articulated it very well. Thank you for that.
A true follower of what Voltaire once said. Kudos to that!
our social study teacher showed us this and it made 90 percent of the class cry. opened our eyes. amazing speech. showing to my family right now. thank you for this. truly amazing
the soldier may leave the desert, but the desert does not leave the soldier.
Facts
Amen
Oh man, that's deep
Came across this while taking a business management course through flight school. As a fellow guy who was part of the finest USAF, and trying to get back in with a different field soon, truly.. "thank you for your service" yes, back when I was young during AFROTC, I replied back also with "yeah sure, you're welcome" but it shouldn't be "thank you for your service" don't go by me, but I hear this sometimes as a mock. Those women and men that put their smiles on while shouting out the window while driving - yes, you, those of you, I truly think you all yell out because you see a person in uniform, you want to say something, but all you can make out is a simple "thank you for your service". It's wrong.
It shouldn't be "thank you for your service" it should more likely be "thank you for your sacrifice and what you have done and what CHAPTER it created for both your life and ours" it truly means a lot more. At least then, in our ears, the vestibular system somehow then relays a vague message that this CIVILIAN truly knows what they're talking about.
We're not South Korea. We're definitely not North Korea, China, Russia, Japan, or some parts of Middle East or Europe - that military service is a mandatory or requirement, and if you decline you're behind bars for awhile.
This is the United States of America. Unless a war erupts badly such as another World War or harsh as Vietnam War or Cold War, the rest of us go in because we choose to - for whatever reason it may be. We choose to, that's the biggest reason and that's the beauty of it. We choose to be, who we are, what we do, how we do, where we sleep, and how we live our lives and beyond.
Will you compliment and thank a plumber who fixes your pipe drain with the same "thank you for your service"? No, you're not. "Wow, you're really good at what you do" "Where'd you go to learn all that" "What made you become a plumber"... this is how you will ask and compliment and respect. So, then why with military units do you speak out loud with "thank you for your service" like you know any better? What service are you talking about?
Think on it, people.
Very articulate speaker. Thanks for sharing your experience. My heart breaks for vets.....so traumatizing. Both over there and on return.
Wes Moore, from one veteran to another, THANK YOU and well said.
this man couldn't have said it better. seriously hits home to have someone say that they just want people to talk to them about their experience while deployed. exactly how i feel.
Feel free to message me if you ever wanna talk
This has really opened my eyes to the sad reality of a lot of veterans returning from war and the little support they receive to get them back to their normal lives.
Thank you for saying all you said and THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.
Glad you made it home, Sir.
Thank you Wes Moore for this, love reading your books about your past greatly enjoyed this video and your books
Okay, it's NOT JUST ABOUT AMERICAN SOLDIERS. Okay. Just feel it. It does not matter what country invades other! So you can just stop with your Anti-American comments and focus on the real message in the video. We all know you're all upset about America, many are. But find a video that bashes on America and speak your opinion there.
Only thing that matters are those soldiers going to war and getting back. It's about how the person changes during the war. No matter what war it is! Afghan, WWII, it matters not, really! The experience of PTSD is the same.
You have to understand that he does not need your respect, I think he wants you to understand how a veteran feels.
Silver Mirai Somebody deserves PTSD and somebody does not? Okay. Okay. I can see why wars are potent. Somebody deserves to die and somebody deserves to kill. Somebody deserves to be raped. Somebody deserves to see their comrades die or survive by the skin on their teeth.
Silver Mirai I am not going to de-rail this into the personal discussion so.
Going to war with an intent to not to kill people... Soldiers go to war with an intent to protect their country.
Mike Foxclaw That's naive, when you invade a country, that's not protecting your country, that's terrorism, that's invading, that's stealing resources. I will agree that is morally just to defend your country from invaders, on your country's territory, otherwise it's terrorism, invading a country has no moral justification. It's like saying, I'm gonna burn your house and kill you now in case you wanna burn my house, let's burn everyone's houses for that matter, to protect ours, it's bullshit.
Silver Mirai Stealing is wrong? You know, you can't look at traditional morals when talking about war... War is messy and complicated. Just saying that invading is BAD staahp doing that u hooligans is pretty naive. Each country has its goals and wars happen when these goals don't meet each other peacefully. You know, there are no Saturday morning villains in wars. Each side is eaqually right to defend and invade. That is in the end even defending side kills, rapes, steals, does horrible things at war. You should look into history and their wars, why did they tie over? Why did it happen? Why would anyone start wars? It's really gripping, because almost 80% of the times there is no innocent side in wars.Wars are a product of complications in peaceful negotiations which result in even more distress. Wars also tie over resources which are NEEDED for another country, which is willing to sacrifice it's soldiers for that resource. I am not defending wars but again, portraying just one side as an evil is naive. Portraying terrorism as something onesidedly bad is also naive. People will go to war only for their country no other reason.
Silver Mirai This conversation is over.
Thank you, Wes for saying all that. Well said.
Inspirational and insightful speech. I felt humbled.
powerful. thank you for your service ♡
Got to meet him when i was in high school he autographed his book and he talked to our high school. I liked his speech then and this one.
Thank you sir for your inspiration. It is at times more difficult than BCT and Iraq to figure out life back in the country we serve. Thank you for your voice fellow battle. It is good to see Officers speak also. We can do good in service to do well today as the US Army showed me in 2006 as I enlisted. Thank you for your contintued service out of uniform as well!
Great speech! He brought up great points, and as a veteran I can relate tomany of them. I like to thank so much to bringing awareness to the things that might not seem like a problem for everyone else, but to those who experienced them. Veterans who try their best day in and day out to keep going and live their lives with a new normal.
As someone who attended the same Military School when Wes was the ranking student Leader. He was an inspiration back then, he also played a crucial, yet, unknown role that transformed a troubled out of control youth, into the man I am today. Wes is not only a born leader that leads by example, but a Rhodes Scholar, a Whitehouse Fellow, an Author, A businessman, an Organizer and Combat Veteran (CPT, USArmy). But before he was all those things, he was anothered troubled youth with no direction just like myself
...Valley Forge Military Academy shaped our morals and character as much as our brains. We will see more of Wes Moore in the next 10 years and can expect great things if he ever decides to run for Public Office, He would truly make a great Independent, not be swayed by one side or the other. When that day comes, I would drop whatever, and once again have him lead, I will do my part in whatever capacity needed...Ive been around my fair share of leaders- business, academia, public officials, military and know leadership when i see it
Our stories are as varied as we are. I'd do it all again, even as hard as it was at times, and I'm proud I made the friends I did. But if you're struggling brothers and sisters talk to someone you're not alone!
thank you for youre speech
My younger brother went to military school as well, he was thinking of joining the military after doing a year of university and not liking it (We live in Australia) but I talked him out of it mostly because I was a volunteer crisis counsellor at the time for a suicide hotline and I have spoken to vets that feel so disorientated when they come back. I felt as if the only reason he wanted to join was because that was all he knew -I personally think people need to think "is it right for them?" before they join not just "what else is there to do" -I also think that people who have served should seek counselling - it is very important to talk to someone about your experiences and feel supported. In Australia there isn't much recognition of people that have recently served, I have gone back to do my masters at university and I have been working in a grocery store to support myself and once a year we give people from the defence force a 5% discount around ANZAC day
Bro, i thank you very much
Thanks to this writer I have to annotate a book I don’t know how to annotate
Wes, very moving talk from you. Epic stories of bravery and recovery against all odds. Not surprised that it's difficult to adjust to family and normal life after war ... uncomfortable with big crowds, and the shock of going from total light discipline to Times Square. Very surprised that you guys might want to talk about your experience! We always hear that guys don't want to talk. Best of luck to you and your mates.
I had my eyes opened.
I read his book "The Other Wes Moore" it's really good!
Wes says that saying "thanks for your service" isn't enough, meanwhile everyone in comments is saying "thank you for your service" to the veterans. Lmao
I read *The Other Wes Moore* for school. Really great book.
As a combat veteran, this is the most poignant and realistic interpretation of how it feels...
So... Wes IS Moore.
lol he's been hearing that joke since grade school.
nice
Hi Mr.Moore,
I have said Thanks for Your Service , to Soldier of Many Wars. I have even Google on RUclips Vets and their Experiences trying to find out what they have been through ,and if they have adjusted to Civilian Life as much as they can yet. I don't know what WAR is like because My Grandfather a WWII Vet said what you see on the News is a sanitized version of war, because they want to Morale up and not let you see the Horrors of it All I can do is say THANKS until Vets Stand up and tell us what it's like.
He wish Vets would make more Videos telling us their experiences, I Can't Say I Know what you mean BECAUSE UNLESS YOU HAVE SERVED YOU REALLY DON"T.
I can offer Compassion though and Give a thumbs up. I knew someone casually who joined The Marines after High School because he was Mad when the Twin Towers went down. He handed out Bandana's with Bible Verses on them to the Iraq Civilians. He was riding in a Supply Truck one day and it turned over Everybody was all right EXCEPT HIM, It Killed he but the Soldiers he was with said it looked like he was sleeping. He wasn't even Born Here He was From BRAZIL . He Died for his adopted Country while still trying to spread The Gospel. I am unable to Serve because I have Physical Disabilities but wanted to the first time I saw FULL METAL JACKET. I thought If I did my time and didn't come home injured that NO ONE would EVER BOTHER ME AGAIN.
Now that I hear some of the Horror Stories I am kid of glad I wasn't able to Serve.
Then I think Someone Else's Kid had to take MY PLACE and I feel Guilty.\
Sorry for Rambling on But I know it's NOT ENOUGH BUT THANK YOU TO EVERY MAN AND WOMAN WHO SERVED IN THE US ARMED FORCES.
D. Neal Linville
Inspiring and educational!!
Nailed it
First time I felt handcuffs was when I was 23, but they were pink and fuzzy so I don't think it counts
Took care of your roids though! LMAO
What a great talk!
He not saying war is right or wrong, he is simply telling why he joined the military and the psychological effects it had on him. You guys must honor these guys, they fight for you. He is crying out for a bit compassion and you guys criticize him... THINK ABOUT IT. War is an evil thing, but they join, sometimes to find a place to belong, and sometimes for an education. This man has my respect, like all the veterans and soldiers ever to go to war.
Great speech, proud to have joined the army for the same reasons. Respect.
Hooooooah!!! props to a fellow VET who had their life changed by the military.
Thank You for your service Sir. Can I be of any service for you Sir?
Thank you for service. Can I also be of service?
I WOULD LIKE TO PUT SOME LEAD IN HIM ALSO - I WOULD LOVE TO BE THE SAME SERVICE TO THESE PEOPLE THAT THEY WERE TO VIETNAMESE, KOREANS, IRAQIS, AFGHANS,LIBYANS, CAMBODIANS, NEED I GO ON WITH OUR ILLUSTRIOUS AMERICAN MILITARY INVOLVEMENT- DUM STUPID FUCKS!!
I miss it too. I served in Afghanistan in 2008 and Iraq in 2009. He's right on all counts.
WOW... Just wow
!!!**A GENUINE AMERICAN STORY OF COMMITMENT AND SACRIFICE ... THANKS TO OUR VETERANS OF WAR AND THEIR FAMILIES**!!! ...
Oh well, as a Civilian, I have been through PTSD myself and all I can do now is using my empathy and creativity to give back. I feel helpless regarding wars abroad, dear, Italy is not even aware that they are fighting abroad, and France is paying the outcome of their wars abroad. Thank you for PTSD, Charlie Hebdo. I am native Italian and adopted French. The best in this story? spreading message in the US ....good luck x
Yeah.. I love Duty.. Still in, since 1984
But no, most of society only cares about what the Kardashians are up to.
Or that chick wannabe Bruce.
+XGC Scrappy chick wannabe? do you not know what transgender is?
Kat Friedlander Mentally and socially he is a women, but biologically he's a man, so ultimately he is a chick wanna be.
Kat Friedlander
Yes, I do know what transgender is. Why?
'Thank you for your service' should be replaced by 'Thank you for your sacrifice'....
I think that would only make me more uncomfortable
@@thesaucyprophesy2939 that is true- you know your real character, and dont want to lie =good for you.
Combat patch is on your right shoulder, unit patch is on your left.
Finally someone else noticed it too!
Yes, I noticed that as well and I find it inconceivable that an Army vet would make that mistake!
Debra Heston - He's human too.
@@jacrispymccrispy Sure and public speaking in front of strangers can make one nervous, especially on a touchy subject. Time and distance impair memory even without bringing combat stress and fog of war into the picture. Above all is the understanding that everyone's experience was unique to themselves and a service member standing beside them may remember the same event differently. We are a retired dual military family and can overlook most things under the premise "He's human too", but not on this one.
Somethings become second nature through the Army's traditional obsession with uniformity, repetition and attention to detail. "It's all in the details young Soldier"; something every Drill Sergeant says until it's burned into a Soldier's memory, perhaps you can relate. Things such as how to wear the uniform correctly every day. The current unit patch is always on the left (except for the now decommissioned 2nd AD) and combat patch is always on the right, always.
Another issue we have was his perpetuation of a negative stereotype still popular in academia about the homicidal motivations of enlisted Soldiers. He gave himself a free pass and distanced himself from the Soldiers he supposedly led into battle by saying he did it for the college money while his Soldiers did it out of blood lust. We've never seen a Officer who would disrespect his own men like that. The motivations that you had for entering the service don't matter once you're on the ground. There is no reason to ever mention it or much less try place yourself above others morally. What matters is standing by the Soldier next to you no matter how bad it gets down range. If you've been down range, ever, you know already know this and you at least suspect that something is not quite right about this man's story.
If you've never been down range... Well, give it some thought and share your feedback.
Right from the beginning, Wes did not have issues, his mother did. There's your entire reason that he still wants to be appreciated for doing wrong. The examples parents give to their children form their mindset in the future.
You dont....you leve them alone BUT listen IF they want to talk abou it....
Fellow Veterans, get involved in your state legislature's veteran committees. I have helped advocate for education benefits in Missouri's colleges and universities. It helped me shed some of the bad feelings getting a W in the civilian world.
Wow!
Fascinated that no one wanted to talk / listen to him about the experience. I think this is like when someone dies. We just think it is do hard, so avoid the issue.
Left the U S Army in '91, after 6 1/2 years of service. No intense action, but I still think in terms of soldier / civilian. I still identify as soldier. It took me over 6 years to finally accept that the civilian world did not have the hard and fast rules that I was used to. I can imagine how much harder it is for combat veterans. That brotherhood is why the motorcycle gangs were initially started by ww 2 veterans. They understood each other.
To me, "thank you for your service" means acknowledging that despite our civil mannerisms, the world is still a dangerous place; I am appreciating their being part of something bigger than themselves that is probably why I'm alive.
I acknowledge that even the military doesn't want to need to fight. Non violent confrontation and respecting political boundaries is a big training point they have to emphasize. Butterfly wings and hornet nests.
When I thank them, it's respecting that they put in the work to do the job that needed doing. It mattered. I care. I'm celebrating that they are right there in front of me.
YOU SIR, ARE FUCKIN STUPID. YOU TRUST OUR DECEIVING POLITICIANS?? WHERE IS YOUR BRAINS??
Wes, thank you for being so real and giving us non veterans an up close and personal point of view. I work for www.gijobs.com where we help veterans transition out of the military into civilian life. We wold love to learn more about your story, you can inspire so many other veterans. Thank you.
Wes Moore actually wrote an autobiography, The Other Wes Moore. Hopefully that helps points you in the right direction!
Great, thank you for the heads up Sylvia. We will check it out.
his autobiography says he was a marine but in here he says he joined the army
I honestly don't think it matters on which side the man was. The video wasn't about "serving the US", nor it did have any other patriotic topic. It was about what the vets feel. Surely the vets want to be appreciated for what they did, for what they felt. I actually think that the feelings described are acceptable for any of the vets - no matter which country they served.
You shouldn't blame the man, because if he had to pay for college, the army actually could make a man earn a lot of money. As you know, the education is quite expensive these days, and the man surely wanted to live his youth without having any serious financial obligations after. Also, I think that back then it wasn't known to people in the US about what the actual reason for Afghan War was and what consequences it would bring.
I didnt know back then, but there was never any evidence that they were involved with 9-11. I knew since 1973 that the US involves itself in military actions in other nations as a bully and its politicians are liars and are all bought. This is not rocket science. People are not as stupid as they seem. they are all whores for the government.- which is run by capitalists.
I'm an German, i was in Afghanistan to. We have the same Problems in Germany, nobody say "thank you vor the service" thay say "murder"... but i say to you my am.Soldierfriend, thank you vor your service, thank you...
I live on the other side of the planet, but I share the feelings of this officer.
I would buy him a beer, if I could :)
Unfortunately, modern society sees the word "war" as a picture of the TV news. People just do not care about each other. By this, I prefer to look at them through the scope.
Bro I really want to learn your history
"thank you for your service"... "did you kill anybody?" save your yellow ribbons.
indeed
Veterans are the only ones who can truly help other veterans.
He's not wrong. The vets that I know, while most of them don't like to talk about specifics of their service, appreciate when people care enough to ask about it. That said, don't ask a vet if they've ever killed someone. If they want to tell you that story, of which there will probably be many if they even tell you one, they will. I've only ever known one vet of the the Iraq war that was comfortable talking about his deployment. When you hear the things these men and women went through, you understand why so many are hesitant to talk about their war experience. When you hear a story about 4 Rangers that were far ahead of the rest of the forces and they had to hide from squads of troops or tanks and allow yourself to realize the utter terror of the situation as well as the thrill of it, you can get about 1% of an idea of what they went through. That's when you realize their original motivations or your own beliefs about war mean absolutely nothing. Thanking someone for doing something that you have no real idea of what you're thanking them for means almost nothing. Knowledge and context are always important for real gratitude.
I hated the Military but now that I'm out I realize I miss the brotherhood I once overlooked. I miss the lifestyle of like minded individuals but I hate the ethics and politics.
You'll never get passed it but it does get better as time passes. Gotta stop putting too much pressure on yourself and setting high expectations. Expectations only lead to further complication of your problems. The sleep will get better as you slowly remove the negativity around you. The dreams will come and go but they will become manageable once you get consecutive good's night rest and start finding something positive to surround yourself around. Find someone in your family who you can enjoy time with and focus on them and not yourself or even donate time to a V.A. Do something positive for someone else and your mood will follow, eventually. Getting the mindset off of yourself and onto others may or may not help the healing process. Need anything, just message here and I don't mind responding.
@@FirstLast-ej1my an amazing revelation for a vet, think of helping somebody else instead of your own pain- they cant think of that on their own- such sacrificial people
there are 35 westboro baptist church members have seen this
It's a heavy burden that we as veterans carry.
Hero of War!
I love you, bro
And that oath never goes away. Eternal obligation.
Never say the asinine cliche "thank you for your service" it's just like the meaningless/hollow platitude your gym teacher used to say: "go out there and give 110%" . I find its much nicer to say to a vet: 'Thank you for not being a useless civilian slob". Trust me, this rings far more genuine.
Thanks for doing corporate and governmental bidding and oppressing and invading people thank you thank you *licks boots*
@@thebigcapitalism9826 Do you give good head?
Tell the stories of the people that didn't manage to tell theirs. Happens for all armies around the world.
The division of opinions in these comments are understandable; this topic strikes a cord with most people. The Truth is, that we are all human. We have emotions, impulses, attachments, beliefs, and pasts. Anyone can dissect a paragraph, and twist another's words, but at everyone's core, to Live Peacefully is the objective... And those who believe they want war or revenge because they're angry, are only expressing the scars within themselves.
"First take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye."
We Are All, One.
Salute
greate speach
the one question i've always wanted to ask a veteran of afghanistan is 'is it as beautiful as the pictures?' but i've never had the chance. i haven't met any veterans since i go to a boarding school in the middle of nowhere
I hurt everyday.
Brave Rifles Sir.
usually the people that can come up with just "thank you for your service" couldnt care less about the military. they are just trying to show a "good face" and are glad that they are safe at home going on with their lives. this is the truth and it is a harsh reality that we live in.
Is the moral of this story: "Tuition fees should be lowered"?
My exact thought.
Sooo... Is tuition high so that more people join the army? Or is the army getting more recruits because tuition fees are so high? Chicken/egg?
@@parkerdinhwilliams15 The government doesn't decide tuition costs for Universities, so definitely the latter. High tuition driving higher recruitment rates, not tuition fees being high specifically so that more people will join the military.
@@TonecrafteLuthiery The government does decide if Universities are ALLOWED to put prices so high however. They can also decide to allocate more money to funding education or not. The US government has decided to let universities become full-on businesses and not protect students from astronomical costs of higher education, so I'm not so sure your take is true.
War is bad period.
As a Veteran how can I help other veterans?
Assuming the other vets know you are also a vet, you could exchange experiences. I have no military experience myself, but I am under the impression that vets prefer to talk with each other about their experiences both while deployed and their frustrations integrating back into normal life, because its something only they really get.
@@tahseenkhan3629 I dont understand evil and stupidity. but why dont they tell youth why not to join? they cant think of doing that on their own?? go figure- the evil that they are has no end
patch me through to the dice.
How this video has 88 dislikes is beyond me...
Rangers lead the way
I dreamed of being in the 75th and I failed. But just because I failed I didn't stop. Instead I went 19D with an op4 contract. Ship out may 23.
+hunter martin stay safe
John Flores Very easily. Plenty of men who fail the 75th Ranger Regiment will later go to the "big Armies" Ranger school. There is far more Ranger School graduates with a Ranger Tab than there is actual Rangers serving in the Regiment, they're called "School house Rangers". All Infantry officers go to Ranger School, very few will ever serve as a Ranger. Going to space camp does not make you an astronaut.
Now that I'm out ,people always ask me if id killed anyone in iraq and I can never say yes because I feel too awkward and if I say yes they'd want to know all the details and i feel a rock in my stomach to think about now and how people would judge
Im a combat veteran of the Iraq war and i can tell you about veterans. The reason you see them talking openly about it to other vets but not very much to others such as family or friends isnt because they "dont like talking about it". Its because only other veterans can relate to their stories. when a vet is using lingo you've never heard, talking about places you've never been to, and describing situations you know nothing about, then how are you supposed to react to that. you cant possibly relate to what they're talking about so whats the point to tell you about it. sure some of the exciting stuff is fun to talk about, the funny and scary stuff... but thats not how most days in war are. think about someone who is a master of their trade such as a master electrician, he doesnt come home and stay quiet about it because of some electrician ptsd....lol he doesnt talk about it because unless your an electrician too then you wouldnt be able to follow along with his stories....see what i mean.
heres another thing id like to say about this video, i dont need your thanks and i dont expect it. i did it on my own accord. i do appreciate your consideration but i dont think you owe me anything. i didn't serve so that afterwards i could hold it over everyones heads to be worshipped or have my butt kissed by society.
the best way to thank a vet is to offer them a (good paying) job
I see a lot of reservists and some active carry around their vet status like its some kind of victim card where they can just pull it out and you should automatically treat them favorably in some manner like their "special" and i think thats bull crap. well adjusted vets are humble people, thank them by loving them and giving them a good job if your in a position to do so, the cocky ones need a reality check but its a phase they need to just grow out of
these have been my opinions on the matter.
oh, and i dont like professional victims like this dude in the video. seems to me that hes got this speech down to a science. he knows all the ques to stop and shake his head like an emotional pastor lecturing to everyone about something....its not my cup of tea. sick of these people on soap boxes with their victim card out explaining why everyone else should treat them like they're special.
Saying thank you for your sacrifice means more than service. service sounds like the ild lady giving out meals at the soup kitchen or giving out free lemonade to the children. the military and war is sacrifice, one that not many people are willing to make. you sacrifice your health and life yes, but more importantly your mind, your emotions, and your time. thats sacrifice.
although I condemn the act of war, this guy opened my eyes. Thank you for that
I joined to fight, 11b
As a Veteran, you may leave the war zone, but the war never leaves you. As a Angolan war Veteran I Salute all Veterans, on all sides. We stood up when we were called, unlike the soft handed cowards in society, who expect the Few to protect them from criminals both on the streets and in the leftist PC culture swamp.
We have high standard but civil society pretty much as gang war
So what's the best way, to explain I am born into service i am proud
The moral in no war, but that's not allways the case