Pride Without Combat: Reflections from a Desert Storm Veteran

Thanks for your service. My dad was over there too. Your service is appreciated more than you know. Be proud.

I, too, am a Desert Storm veteran, but my experience was different. I didn't see any actual combat, and I was even stationed at Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Base, one of the safest places possible. While my role was decidedly support-oriented, it was vital, and I take great pride in it. In this article, I will share my thoughts on the unique nature of my service, the pride that comes from it, and the challenges of explaining it to others.

Support Roles and Vitality

As a Communications — Computer Systems Operator, my job was to ensure the proper functioning of a mainframe computer. Although the system, WWMCCS World Wide Military Command and Control System, required a Top Secret Security Clearance, my role was one of support, not combat. Interestingly, my job was also considered one of the least dangerous. Yet, I feel a sense of pride knowing the importance of the system I maintained. Battle plans, logistics, and command and control communications all passed through this system, making its maintenance crucial to the functioning of the military.

A Different World in Uniform

Being in the military is a whole different world, and it changes us. We give up years of our lives to take on responsibilities that often alter us in profound ways. If I had joined the infantry, someone else would have filled my role. The idea of serving to become a hero is a myth. We did not serve to entertain or tell great stories, but to fulfill our responsibility. I can understand how you feel about your experience, as I share a similar sense of unease when asked to recount my service. When people ask, I tend to downplay what I did, knowing that the stories might not be as 'glamorous' as others might wish to hear.

The Weight of Public Appreciation

Public appreciation can be both a blessing and a burden. The phrases "thank you for your service" can sometimes make me feel embarrassed. I made a conscious decision to serve, but it was never with the expectation of gratitude or admiration. My reasons for joining were personal and varied, but pride and appreciation were not among them. In the military, every role, no matter how seemingly minor, is crucial. Hence, I take no shame in my support role. Others may deride such roles, but they are essential for the success of the mission.

Dealing with Shame and Judgement

If you continue to feel shame about sharing your military service, it's okay not to. If someone persistently presses for more information, you may simply tell them that you prefer not to discuss it. I've noticed that those who enjoy taking credit for their service often talk and talk, seeking attention and admiration. Conversely, those who truly served often speak little on the subject. Reflection on one's service should be a private and personal matter, not a competition for admiration.

The Unseen Valor of Support Roles

Support roles are just as important as frontline combat roles. They are the backbone of the military's success, ensuring that even the smallest details are managed correctly. My role, although unseen by many, was still crucial. I see no shame in being a part of a vital system that supports the command and control operations of the military. I fulfilled my duty, and I am proud of it.

Conclusion

Service in the military is a journey that shapes us in ways unique to those who have lived it. The feeling of pride and the sense of unease coexist, and there is no shame in feeling both. If you still find it challenging to discuss your experience, by all means, keep it to yourself. Pride is a personal matter, and it's your choice whether and when to speak of your service.

In the end, remember that every service member, regardless of their role, has made a significant contribution. Your experience, while different, is no less valuable. You are part of a larger tapestry that supports the military's mission, and you should take pride in that.