Interview with a veteran

CasterTroy

CasterTroy

Faster'N You
Joined
Mar 21, 2005
Location
Wallburg
My youngest daughter Sara is a senior in HS this year, creeping up on graduation. She had a civics project recently where she needed to conduct an interview of a veteran and then compose a report based on the interview. She said the rubric had emphasis on contributing your own personal opinion… heavily.

She asked if she could interview @Jason W.

I told her she would have to ask HIM that question.

She was excited. She loves her some “average” crayon eatin, leprechaun :huggy:

She conducted the interview and asked him the 20 questions. Then continued asking more questions of her own.

When I got home from work yesterday she couldn’t WAIT to share with me what she learned; which was a whole new respect for veterans and what they bring to the table. You see, I’ve told Sara stories of what Jason and others have had to live thru. Not the WORST mind you, but some of the bad stories that have been shared with me over the years. As well as some of the night time ½ conscious night terrors that both friends and my father shared with me. Sara knew my father served in Vietnam. She knew he killed a LOT of people, and watched his entire platoon eliminated one person at a time (Knowing that my father had to wake up every morning along with the rest of the platoon and pick up body parts of friends, and send them home) only to survive and come home to PTSD that would eventually kill him.


She listened to those stories I told her my father told ME, but I’m not sure she really understood the far reaches of PTSD until her boyfriend joined the army and left for boot camp. This after he and Jason bonded so well last fall. That connection to him that Sara feels THRU Jason, made this interview quite sobering and intense.

Jason shared with her some of the milder events and spared her any of her own horror, but Sara knew there was much more; many more dark terrors that lurked below the surface. If you KNOW Jason, you may think he’s just a happy go lucky guy with a little Dain Bramage, but there’s so much more to this happy guy. He’s seen stuff that would make satan puke. Knowing what I know personally, I can honestly say he’s the strongest man I’ve ever met. Sara understands that now, and holds him close to the same regard as I do.

She asked him how he was received when he came home from his tour in Iraq. Jason told her about the banner his mother and aunt held high, but she also zeroed in on how he spent most of his time home in a dark room. Processing. This was not lost on her.

Jason also shared a great deal of FUNNY events that occurred. She tried to direct the interview so that there was more light, than dark, and of course, Jason being who HE is also naturally highlighted the light over the dark, telling her a funny story that had her cracking up telling ME about it. (glowing worm puke FTW)

In the end Jason told her freedom doesn’t come for free. That resonated like a tornado siren with her after this interview. I could see she “got it”. She used that in her opinionated review that she was supposed to give. I’d LOVE to be in that room when she reads it. My only hope is that some of these entitled little air biscuits that occupy a seat in her school come even CLOSE to understanding what she is saying.

So MANY folks never DO “get it”. That’s why yesterday was so important to me. When MY kid finally realizes the cost that comes with freedom….. Ken’s son gets to participate in the changing of the guard….when ANYONE finally understands what freedom actually COSTS….I celebrate, and feel like there’s been one more victory.

I’ve been to Washington DC many times….and still can’t bring myself to go to the Vietnam memorial. So MANY died there and are immortalized on that wall. That war killed my father, but it took decades to finish him off.

The destruction that Vietnam did to my father forever jaded my mother, to the point that I was not allowed to serve in any capacity. I knew going against her will would crush her so I honored that. But that didn’t mean that I didn’t “get it”.
I appreciate and respect the hell out of anyone who HAS served. I can’t thank you enough. But to Jason I’m especially grateful, because he was able to show the next generation the importance of serving. She “gets it” and to me…that’s SO exciting!
 
Last edited:
That's awesome. If you were sitting here with me while reading that, I'd have to tell you that my allergies are acting up this morning. I don't even "know" your or your daughter, and reading this makes me proud as hell. I can only hope my little girl grows up with respect like that.
 
Some older vets can scare the poop out of you at what they did. One that got me was a older person 70+ granddad looking fellow the worked for French resistance. Never said he was in the war till near the end of his life. He was a collector for residence. Basically kills German soldiers to collect guns money what ever he can all hand to hand. He stop counting at 20. Makes what I did seam tame being crew chief. Hat off to them and a life time of thanks.
 
Here is the official interview, as well as her "reflection"


Interview Q&A

During which war did you serve
Iraq

How long were you in active duty? Branch? Unit?
2000-2005 , US marine corp, 2nd tank battalion

Where and when were you stationed during the conflict?
Camp Lejeune NC 2001-2004, Camp Geiger Nc 2004-2005

At the time, what were your feelings towards US involvement in the war?
Confusing but very excited to serve country and do what I was told

What do you remember about the support of the nation ‘back home’ during the war? Was it supportive?
Nation was extremely supportive, but I believe a lot of it was just to be socially accepted

Most vivid memory?
In Iraq 2003, I was engaged in a fire fight with militants took part and witnessed in heavy civilian casualties which affected me deeply for the rest of my life.

What were some daily events that took place?
Being constantly on guard at all times, trying to stay hydrated even though many times they ran out of water. Biggest mission of the day was what our orders were and keeping the tank and weapons ready to go at all times. Thought in the back of your mind “is today my last day?”

What did serving the country teach you most about yourself?
Taught me who I was as far as values, and my relationship with God

How often do you stay in touch with the men and women you served with?
I only stay in touch with one, my best friend who is still active duty today as for the others I have lost all contact. Mainly due to not wanting to bring up old memories

In class we are focusing on citizenship, what are your thoughts on how serving the nation reinforces citizenship?
During my time serving I found that citizenship meant the most to those who joined the marines and not being a US citizen. Seeing them have their citizenship granted after 4 years of service meant more to them than any illegal crossing immigrant ever deserved.

Should everyone be required to enlist in military service?
I do not believe that everyone should be required to do military service because I believe equality of the American soldier would greatly decrease. I also don't agree with everyone serving simply because everyone is not physically able and service would do great harm to their body or mental state

What do you believe is the most misunderstood idea about veterans?
That a lot of the bad things that happen in the fog of war that we in our soul wanted to do. (Didn't agree with what they told him to do but had to do it because it was an order)

What role do you feel the government should take in the protection of its veterans?
I think the government should hold veterans health as a top priority, I also believe our government should concentrate more on civilian adaptation and preparing veterans for work and social integration.

If you could go back to the day you said you wanted to be in the military, would you take it back or do it again?
I would do it all over again, I am very proud to be a marine and serve my country with honor

Why did you join the military?
I joined for opportunity because I lived in Lenoir NC, which had a dying furniture industry and without money for college, I saw no bright future for myself and NO i did not know what I was getting myself into.

What helped you get through everything?
The comradery of my fellow marines and my desire to protect them by carrying out our mission to the best I was capable. Of course i thought about family but I never really looked at it as doing it for my country, I was much more worried about the men and women surviving around me.

Do you remember any humorous or unusual events?
There were many, as marines we were always goofing around if we were bored, we had a guy in our unit names Smago and we were in the tank range at camp doing training before we left we were done for the day and were in our tent then came a thunderstorm, while in the tent one of the mechanics decided to cut open a bunch of glow sticks and it soon turned into “who could throw the most glow stick goo on who”. As we settled down and it quit raining we walked outside the tent and noticed worms crawling all over the ground and Smago, being the idiot he is, says “I would eat one of those for a dollar”. You have to understand this is the kind of guy when you ask a question, he tilts his head like a dog does. Soon the 10 and 20 dollar bills were pouring out as some of the other tankers were coming over to get in on the action. Smago ate worm after worm, it had to be at least 50. It was the grossest thing i'd ever seen. He made over 100 dollars and he finally stopped and said he couldn't hold any more and he could feel them moving, then decided to take the last glowstick and drink the neon green goo. No sooner than he got it down there was an explosion of neon green worm vomit that projected all over another mechanic. That was the funniest s*** i've ever seen. And if you're wondering, yes, Smago was okay, he probably drank 4 gallons of water and had glowing pee...Don't try this at home.

What did you do the day you came home after serving in the military?
Landed in Cherry point NC at 9PM and they bussed us back to camp Lejeune. When I pulled in the parking lot my mom and aunt were holding a giant welcome home signs and I got to be home for 10 days before I had to report back. During those 10 days I was very confused. I spent my time in a room in the dark by myself or visiting with family. I had no idea how much trouble it would be later.

What do you do now, either in your free time or for a career?
I am fully medically retire with VA benefits so i no longer work due to my disabilities. I am very passionate about off roading and the community and club I am apart of. Owning a jeep and off roading means alot to me. It has been the best medicine I have ever had. I also like to fish a little and I spend a lot of time with my brother Josh tinkering around with jeeps in the garage. Much of my time is spent at doctors offices which of course gets old.

Is there any advice you'd like to give to my generation?
Understand that your freedom is not free. Never forget the ones who served or the ones who died for your freedom.
















Reflection

Interviewing a veteran, I knew from the start it wasn't going to be easy asking some of the questions. I teared up a little bit listening to his stories and the things he will always remember. Although I know Jason, I learned so much about him and I'm glad I was able to speak with him.

I chose Jason because he is a friend of my dad's and I knew that he had served in the military and would be willing to answer questions even if they were personal questions. While asking questions I learned how proud Jason was to serve in the military. His friendship with those serving with his is what made him WANT to survive. He was going to do anything and everything to protect them. I also learned that after the military, you don't just move on. The stories go with you and you will never forget what happened in the years you were defending the country and the people.

The most interesting thing to me was how even in the middle of a war and training they have fun out of the most random things. Who would've thought that glow sticks and worms could cause so much entertainment. I loved hearing about the random things they would do to stay entertained and hearing his laugh while telling the story brought a smile to my face. If I could have done the interview again, I would have asked more uplifting questions to separate the horror and the humor. Although my questions were not too vivid, he had more to say about the funnier stories than he did the others.

This was a very valuable experience because I learned what the war was like from his perspective, all I knew before was the stories I hear in school. I also learned more about him and about the lives of veterans today. I think the advice was the most moving because it could mean so many different things. “Understand that your freedom is not free. Never forget the ones who served or the ones who died for your freedom.”
 
CasterTroy said:
Here is the official interview, as well as her "reflection"


Interview Q&A

During which war did you serve
Iraq

How long were you in active duty? Branch? Unit?
2000-2005 , US marine corp, 2nd tank battalion

Where and when were you stationed during the conflict?
Camp Lejeune NC 2001-2004, Camp Geiger Nc 2004-2005

At the time, what were your feelings towards US involvement in the war?
Confusing but very excited to serve country and do what I was told

What do you remember about the support of the nation ‘back home’ during the war? Was it supportive?
Nation was extremely supportive, but I believe a lot of it was just to be socially accepted

Most vivid memory?
In Iraq 2003, I was engaged in a fire fight with militants took part and witnessed in heavy civilian casualties which affected me deeply for the rest of my life.

What were some daily events that took place?
Being constantly on guard at all times, trying to stay hydrated even though many times they ran out of water. Biggest mission of the day was what our orders were and keeping the tank and weapons ready to go at all times. Thought in the back of your mind “is today my last day?”

What did serving the country teach you most about yourself?
Taught me who I was as far as values, and my relationship with God

How often do you stay in touch with the men and women you served with?
I only stay in touch with one, my best friend who is still active duty today as for the others I have lost all contact. Mainly due to not wanting to bring up old memories

In class we are focusing on citizenship, what are your thoughts on how serving the nation reinforces citizenship?
During my time serving I found that citizenship meant the most to those who joined the marines and not being a US citizen. Seeing them have their citizenship granted after 4 years of service meant more to them than any illegal crossing immigrant ever deserved.

Should everyone be required to enlist in military service?
I do not believe that everyone should be required to do military service because I believe equality of the American soldier would greatly decrease. I also don't agree with everyone serving simply because everyone is not physically able and service would do great harm to their body or mental state

What do you believe is the most misunderstood idea about veterans?
That a lot of the bad things that happen in the fog of war that we in our soul wanted to do. (Didn't agree with what they told him to do but had to do it because it was an order)

What role do you feel the government should take in the protection of its veterans?
I think the government should hold veterans health as a top priority, I also believe our government should concentrate more on civilian adaptation and preparing veterans for work and social integration.

If you could go back to the day you said you wanted to be in the military, would you take it back or do it again?
I would do it all over again, I am very proud to be a marine and serve my country with honor

Why did you join the military?
I joined for opportunity because I lived in Lenoir NC, which had a dying furniture industry and without money for college, I saw no bright future for myself and NO i did not know what I was getting myself into.

What helped you get through everything?
The comradery of my fellow marines and my desire to protect them by carrying out our mission to the best I was capable. Of course i thought about family but I never really looked at it as doing it for my country, I was much more worried about the men and women surviving around me.

Do you remember any humorous or unusual events?
There were many, as marines we were always goofing around if we were bored, we had a guy in our unit names Smago and we were in the tank range at camp doing training before we left we were done for the day and were in our tent then came a thunderstorm, while in the tent one of the mechanics decided to cut open a bunch of glow sticks and it soon turned into “who could throw the most glow stick goo on who”. As we settled down and it quit raining we walked outside the tent and noticed worms crawling all over the ground and Smago, being the idiot he is, says “I would eat one of those for a dollar”. You have to understand this is the kind of guy when you ask a question, he tilts his head like a dog does. Soon the 10 and 20 dollar bills were pouring out as some of the other tankers were coming over to get in on the action. Smago ate worm after worm, it had to be at least 50. It was the grossest thing i'd ever seen. He made over 100 dollars and he finally stopped and said he couldn't hold any more and he could feel them moving, then decided to take the last glowstick and drink the neon green goo. No sooner than he got it down there was an explosion of neon green worm vomit that projected all over another mechanic. That was the funniest s*** i've ever seen. And if you're wondering, yes, Smago was okay, he probably drank 4 gallons of water and had glowing pee...Don't try this at home.

What did you do the day you came home after serving in the military?
Landed in Cherry point NC at 9PM and they bussed us back to camp Lejeune. When I pulled in the parking lot my mom and aunt were holding a giant welcome home signs and I got to be home for 10 days before I had to report back. During those 10 days I was very confused. I spent my time in a room in the dark by myself or visiting with family. I had no idea how much trouble it would be later.

What do you do now, either in your free time or for a career?
I am fully medically retire with VA benefits so i no longer work due to my disabilities. I am very passionate about off roading and the community and club I am apart of. Owning a jeep and off roading means alot to me. It has been the best medicine I have ever had. I also like to fish a little and I spend a lot of time with my brother Josh tinkering around with jeeps in the garage. Much of my time is spent at doctors offices which of course gets old.

Is there any advice you'd like to give to my generation?
Understand that your freedom is not free. Never forget the ones who served or the ones who died for your freedom.
















Reflection

Interviewing a veteran, I knew from the start it wasn't going to be easy asking some of the questions. I teared up a little bit listening to his stories and the things he will always remember. Although I know Jason, I learned so much about him and I'm glad I was able to speak with him.

I chose Jason because he is a friend of my dad's and I knew that he had served in the military and would be willing to answer questions even if they were personal questions. While asking questions I learned how proud Jason was to serve in the military. His friendship with those serving with his is what made him WANT to survive. He was going to do anything and everything to protect them. I also learned that after the military, you don't just move on. The stories go with you and you will never forget what happened in the years you were defending the country and the people.

The most interesting thing to me was how even in the middle of a war and training they have fun out of the most random things. Who would've thought that glow sticks and worms could cause so much entertainment. I loved hearing about the random things they would do to stay entertained and hearing his laugh while telling the story brought a smile to my face. If I could have done the interview again, I would have asked more uplifting questions to separate the horror and the humor. Although my questions were not too vivid, he had more to say about the funnier stories than he did the others.

This was a very valuable experience because I learned what the war was like from his perspective, all I knew before was the stories I hear in school. I also learned more about him and about the lives of veterans today. I think the advice was the most moving because it could mean so many different things. “Understand that your freedom is not free. Never forget the ones who served or the ones who died for your freedom.”
Click to expand...


Damn it! Wife must be cutting onions. I’ve met @Jason W. a half dozen or so times at most. After the first meeting, he remembered me. I never forgot that. Who remembers someone that someone else introduced you to. He’s a hell of a guy. Always supportive and helpful on the trails. He’s a guy that’d give the shirt off his back for anyone and exhibited that every day.

@CasterTroy - hell of a job raising a connected, centered young woman. As someone who chose not to have children, you sir have obviously excelled in this arena. I’m going to go back and reread this a few times.
 
Whew got some onions in my house too!

If I did not know the person being interviewed, this would have been emotional. Since I know Jason fairly well it was extremely emotional. Forever thankful for you and everyone else’s service.

Reminds me of a song by Casey Donahew-Still Ain’t Made it Home. I’ve thought of several veteran friends when I hear that song but reading the above really hit deep.
 
tlucier said:
@CasterTroy - hell of a job raising a connected, centered young woman. As someone who chose not to have children, you sir have obviously excelled in this arena.
Click to expand...

I really appreciate that!

I get a lot of things wrong. I'm stubborn, and tend to learn things the hard way. But growing up with a father that was too busy fighting demons from Vietnam to BE a father left me with a mother that worked all the time just to make ends meet. Most of the time it was more than she could handle. So to say I had anything that resembled a "normal childhood" was an understatement. Not attempting to evoke pity, more-so painting a picture. From age 10 I knew I wanted to be the father I NEVER had, and an emotionally stable PARENT that I never saw. I'm more than proud of all 3 of my kids. They've far surpassed any "expectation" I may have had for them. I tried to arm them with as much as I could before sending them off to be devoured by the world, and I feel like I've done a pretty decent job. When I see comments like yours, it assures me that they're going to be OK and good contributors to society.
 
I have seen first hand, up close and personal, how the wheeling and tinkering on Jeeps works as a sense of purpose, that Both Jason, and Josh need. This is important to them both! It gives them purpose, It gives them direction. And as Jason pointed out, there needs to be more done to re-incorporate Vets back into the civilian society. IT wasn't offered, but they found it. Fixing things in all the wrong ways!
 
Thanks for posting this up. I agree that many dont GET IT.

Reading this along with other stories this week about the D-Day anniversary reinforces the reminder that we do not have many years left with our WWII survivors; and we need to make the best of it. After they are gone, it will be our job to make sure the stories are remembered correctly and not how mainstream govt/media wants us to remember them.
 
Back
Top