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K Tyler

The 6-6th CAV’s 10th Mountain Division proudly returned to Fort Drum in October 2011, symbolizing military unity. As brothers and sisters, troops demonstrated military community strength and resilience. According to the author, Army service promotes personal growth and leadership. They encourage the next generation of military people to serve honorably and valiantly, knowing past sacrifices guaranteed our liberties.

Are you your Brother’s Keeper?

“As a human, whether as a brother, sister, husband, or wife, you need to be aware of the stories you don’t want to hear. They are the stories of joy and pain, sadness, and struggle that may be difficult to hear, but by listening and showing empathy, you can provide support and comfort to those sharing their experiences. By telling stories, we can connect with others and understand their feelings. So, even if it’s hard to hear, be willing to listen and be there for those who need to share their stories.”

Returning to Fort Drum was a miracle, like the Allies defeating Nazi Germany. Soldiers cheered and hugged in relief and success across the Rapid Deployment Facility. Our common experiences and challenges while deployment showed in our friendship and solidarity. We were greeted by relatives, friends, and a news team on the tarmac. The crowd was thrilled. We finished our job without casualties, but combat takes its toll on equipment. The enormous support and thanks from our loved ones made the losses worthwhile. As we exited the aircraft, our team felt accomplished and united.

The base commanding general praised us as we gathered in the 10th CAB hangar. We were bold and dedicated to the goal, and he stressed our return. We felt accomplished and proud being among our loved ones and fellow troops. Since I fulfilled my promise and brought SPC Smith home alive and well, getting embraces from his family made the celebration more memorable. I'll treasure that moment to the end. It reminded us of our military family relationship, committed to one other's safety and well-being. SPC Smith's family's appreciation and relief made all the sacrifices and struggles worthwhile. I was humbled to observe how my actions affected others, and it strengthened my commitment to service with dignity and honesty. That moment of solidarity and friendship reinforced our partnership as brothers and sisters. I felt proud and fulfilled knowing that that moment will always remind me of our purpose. I'm proud to be part of the military community's strength and resilience.

I left active duty in 2015 but kept in touch with most of my crew on social media. Our relationship endures even if we're spread across the nation. Even when we pursue various civilian careers, our common experiences and memories bond us. Army veteran SPC Kitzleman, now SSG Kitzleman, is doing well. SPC Mastell joined the National Guard to continue his military career and pursue other options, regaining his sergeant rank.  SPC Smith left the army and is doing well in insurance on the west coast. Sgt. Cole's Army commitment earned him an E-6 promotion. SPC Garska is a successful cannabis producer in the Midwest after an honorable discharge. SPC Garska's cannabis growing achievement shows how military training and discipline may work in unexpected fields. Since our military days, SPC Garska has made great strides in the cannabis market. It's encouraging to watch how each crew member has discovered their own specialty and flourished.

After my stint as a KBR contractor in Iraq, I worked there for 18 months until retiring. I left Iraq for El Paso, Texas. I was bored again in El Paso, so I worked for another military contractor on post. Using my abilities and expertise in the military fulfilled me. I've enjoyed my stay in El Paso and am glad for the possibilities since retirement. I like the camaraderie and purpose of working with military members again. My move from active duty to contracting was straightforward, and I'm glad to serve in a new manner. My new home is El Paso, and I like the feeling of community and belonging. My retirement has been thrilling, and I look forward to future prospects.

Houston, Texas, is my retirement home. I also adore adventurous travel and cooking. Currently, I spend most of my time in the Dominican Republic, which is perfect for photography and writing. Latin America lets me be unseen and visible. Because of my complexity, I can "pass" as a citizen of any Latin American nation I visit, which is nice. Despite not being a native, I have many Dominican Republic friends and feel at home. The lively culture and pleasant people make me feel at home, and local life inspires my photography and writing. I can escape the stress of my prior profession and enjoy the scenery here.

I'm thankful to live peacefully and happily in such a beautiful nation. Writing is my finest therapy and keeps me focused on live. My work is endlessly inspired by Dominican Republic culture and scenery. I can detach and be creative there. The Dominican Republic's colorful culture and breathtaking scenery inspire me to photograph it. It's my favorite place to relax and be creative, a fantastic retreat from daily life. The vibrant alleys of Santo Domingo, the picturesque beaches of Punta Cana, and the region of Dajabon always inspire me to write. The beautiful scenery and rich history allow me to totally immerse myself in my profession.

The Dominican Republic will always inspire me, whether I'm taking photos or writing. In the US, I fish and spend time with relatives. Life after the military has been good and tranquil. I'm glad for my military experiences and talents, which helped me adjust to civilian life. Service to my nation will always be significant to me. My military service and camaraderie make me proud. My military discipline and leadership qualities have helped me in life. I've also found ways to give back by mentoring veterans and volunteering. I look forward to serving in a new position and improving people's lives. I advocate for children's rights in my free time so they don't have to go through what I did when I was sexually assaulted and had nowhere to turn.

Public or private schools should be resources for young children since they spend so much time there. Keeping our kids safe and providing them everything they need to avoid danger should be our first responsibility. My objective in working for children's rights is to make the world better so no kid has to experience my terrible and brutal childhood. We must protect the rights of all children so they may grow up safe. I am determined to making a difference in the lives of children globally, and my experiences have made me a change agent. When asked whether the Army was worth it, I grin and say yeah, then fish or do whatever you do after retirement. My Army service has motivated me to fight for children's rights and make the world safer for them. Without a secure and loving environment, no kid can thrive. I still want to change the world by sharing my experience so no kid has to go through what I did. Though my Army service defined me, my commitment to children's rights has never faltered.

The Honor and Pride of Serving My Country: A Reflection on Patriotism

Serving my country has been an honor, and I am grateful for the opportunities it has given me. My time in the military gave me a sense of purpose and camaraderie that will never leave me. My time in the military was not perfect; the military is a work in progress. When I had problems within my unit, I made the choice to better myself, get promoted, and make changes at the highest level that I could. That is your mission: to change what needs to be changed on your level, and if the person above you is following the same concept, things will get better. By focusing on personal growth and leadership, I was able to positively impact those around me and contribute to a more cohesive and effective team. It is important to remember that change starts from within, and by leading by example, we can inspire others to do the same. Be a catalyst for change and strive to create a ripple effect of improvement throughout your organization. Your dedication to personal development and leadership will not only benefit yourself but also those you work with and the overall success of the team. I appeal to the next generation of Americans serving in the military: get up and do your job. Your service is really appreciated. Everyone who benefits from your service to our country is very grateful for your selflessness and devotion. Others will be motivated to serve with dignity and pride by your legacy. We will remember your service and the difference you made for years to come. Your heroic commitment to defending the United States and its ideals is much appreciated. I beseech subsequent generations to learn the ins and outs of military service from my experience as a soldier and an American .

Always keep in mind that the greater benefit of our nation is more important than any personal gain from your service. As another great American and veteran once quoted so passionately, " Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." (“‘Ask Not What Your Country Can Do For You...'") Do your duty with honor and bravery, because it will determine the fate of every American in the years to come. The military is not perfect, but it's your generation's responsibility to make the change to make it better. For example, a young soldier may choose to enlist in the military, knowing that the sacrifices they make will ultimately benefit their country and fellow citizens. They may endure difficult conditions and danger, but they do so willingly because they understand the importance of serving the greater good and improving the system for future generations. "That this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” (The Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln) The principles of liberty and democracy that you have been fighting for are what truly set this nation apart. Remember that the sacrifices made by those who came before you paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today. Just like my uncles Harding Thompson, Sydney Clark, and Douglas Johnson, and cousin Mike Edwards, who served in or during the Vietnam conflict, and my brother, Craig Tyler, and my cousins Cindy Tyler Jordan, Harry James Castille, Terry Allen, Butler Tyler,  Peter Joseph, and Anthony Allen, and brother-in-law Roderick Haynes SR, who all served in Desert Shield or Desert Storm, they paved the way for me, just as I and those I served with have paved the way for you to be successful. Stay steadfast in your commitment to upholding these values, knowing that your service is crucial to preserving the American way of life for future generations. Their collective sacrifices and dedication to serving our country have inspired me to follow in their footsteps and continue their legacy of honor and bravery. I am proud to have had such incredible role models and mentors in my family, and I am grateful for the opportunities that their service has provided for me. As you embark on your own journey of service, remember that you are part of a long line of heroes who have protected and defended our nation. Embrace the challenge with courage and determination, knowing that you are making a difference in the world.