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End of a Journey

Posted on December 18, 2009December 18, 2009 by vivin

December 19th, 2000 was a Tuesday. It was the day I enlisted into the Arizona Army National Guard. Today, 9 years later, I'm finishing up my service. From my very first days at C Btry, 1/180th FA, a tour in Iraq, and all the way to Eco 29th BSB, it's been quite a ride. I didn't reenlist because I want to concentrate of my career, and frequent deployments would put me at a serious disadvantage in my field. This is not to say that I'm not torn by my decision. Part of me wants to stay in. Part of me will always want to be in the Army. It has been an amazing 9 years for me. Being part of the Army has given me discipline and confidence and has taught me the meaning of honor, duty, loyalty, and courage. I think I was a good soldier and as an NCO I think I did my best to take care of the soldiers under me. Along the way, I also made some wonderful friends who might as well be family now. The kind of camaraderie that forms when you serve with people in a combat zone cannot be put into words.

Looking back I think I can say that I'm satisfied with my career. I still remember coming in as a 19-year old Private... I knew that I at least wanted to make Sergeant before I got out, and I'm glad that I was able to achieve that. Being able to wear the uniform is something amazing. You are a part of something larger than yourself. It's hard to put into words... I just know that it's something that I will miss terribly.

I can't say that I've looked forward to this day (although my family has). 9 years is a long time to serve and after doing something for so long, it becomes a very integral part of you and your identity. I guess I will always be a soldier and a veteran; I have earned that right. But I know I'll always be looking back at my Army years fondly, half-wishing I was still wearing the uniform and still serving the nation.

Go Army! HOOAH!

2 thoughts on “End of a Journey”

  1. Bala Menon says:
    December 19, 2009 at 11:27 pm

    Hi Vivin,

    Are you the son of Suresh Nair – formerly with PDO in the Sultanate of Oman?

    I just came across your blog and remembered your name….

    I am your dad’s age….

    The name is Bala Menon – and I was in Times of Oman in Muscat a long time ago…

    [email protected]

    Bala Menon
    14 Ferncastle Crescent
    Brampton, Ontario,
    L47 3P2 Canada
    905-452-751

    Reply
  2. vivin says:
    December 22, 2009 at 10:07 am

    @Bala Menon
    Hi Uncle,

    Yes I’m Suresh’s son! I recall your name – I think we might have met when I was very little! I will put you in touch with my dad!

    Reply

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