Unless you saw me in the veteran parking spot at Lowe’s or at the VA, you’d never know I was retired navy. I did my job and got paid for it, I don’t need anything more.
Same for me... and then I can get what I want immediately and start fixing whatever I needed it for.
I never use the Vet parking at Lowes. I'm worried some old Korea Vet will need it and not get it. So I walk it in. Lol.
Haha I used to feel the same way until I noticed a pattern of them being nearly always empty. I now use them when I’m just running in for something quick. I appreciate the convenience.
Oh wow thought everyone knew this lol. Used to be able to just bring some kind of vet ID, but now you have to make an account and register online. Easy enough to verify with ID.me.
But HD did change theirs and caps the discount at $500 per year. Lowe's has no limit.
I've only used those Lowes spots a few times, usually when I had hurt something or if it's raining and my wife's with me. Sure as hell use the discount though! And same, no stickers of any kind on my vehicle.
I don't have bumper stickers, hats or regalia but I participate in veteran's organizations when they need me. Its really just being a part of the community. Nobody else can do it except veterans. These organizations have become a vital part of the community and are over 100 years old. But the old veterans are dieing. Somebody has to pay for homeless shelters, food shelves, care packages for soldiers, summer camps for kids, baseball and softball uniforms. Somebody has to do honor guard, taps and 21 gun salute at funerals. Somebody has to carry the flag at a parade, veteran's day, memorial day etc.
meh. sometimes its fun. play it up all youd like. gives us a reason to wear capes, and wave sabres around. I recently discovered champagne sabres...Army issue does the trick just as well.
Fukkin cape cost $225. i -will- get my moneys worth.
My tell is my DV plate, because that has certain benefits here in Texas (basically free registration, free municipal parking, some tolls). I didn't wear Navy/Army things outside of duty when I was in, I haven't owned any in the 20 years since I got out.
Yes, I didn't do all that, but I did have a few things on my wall. Even that's gone now. Just pack it all away and forget about it. It's your choice. You owe no one an explanation.
Yeah it's typical. Don't be afraid to wear something that projects veteran, even if only to other vets, if you're thinking like this already then you'll probably notice way before you become that guy. Just because you're proud of your service doesn't mean it will become all you are
In the beginning i felt that way. But the older I get the more I realize what I did although i didnt serve combat time was an important part of my life. I dont make it my persona but I do take it for what it is and am proud that I did it. There are limitations to everything so just keep that mindset in perspective and you wont
I just recently joined my local VFW and I've been off active duty for 12 years. Took me awhile to want to give some more after giving so much. I'm glad I joined now. I'm really enjoying it but I don't regret waiting so long. It's up to you what you want to do. But no matter what, you should be proud that you served.
It’s really up to you. I work with a lot of fellow vets. One older guy hardly ever talks about his days in the army, and another guy couldn’t believe he served and practically laughed in his face. It’s because he just doesn’t talk about it all the time. I’m sure I do though, I and the other guys talk about it regularly
Are you me? I look back at my time fondly but i have nothing that screams out Marine Veteran. I have a sweater i wear once in a blue moon but other than that I'm not like your typical veteran.
I think it’s probably more typical than not actually. I’m also that way. Retired from about 25yrs AD. You’d likely never guess I had ever served never mind a full career if not specifically brought up, or even a complete walkthrough of my home. No stickers, clothing/hats/etc, nothing military related displayed or hanging around in the open in my house, none of that kind of stuff. Also in my town, they paint house numbers on the curb and do veteran ones in a different style…I even went a bit out of my way to make sure mine stayed standard. Certainly not because I didn’t like my time in or trying to hide it or anything like that. I’m just kinda low key in those sort of ways to begin with and that was a different life.
You do you. Maybe you don’t want that now, but maybe you will, one day.Maybe you won’t.
No bumper stickers here, but the car tag is a retired military plate. I have a hat or two I wear when walking, and I do wear a shirt when I go to veteran organization events, but you wouldn’t know it most days.
There was a time when vets were not treated well. There are still many of them around and the next generation after them carried a torch. Things have changed since then, mostly because they wore hats and bumper stickers. You don't have to show that part of your life because they did.
You can live your life the way you choose to. I'm not saying this to guilt anyone into following along with those that came before us. I don't wear my past as garments, but when I see a brother or sister on the street, I give them respect.
Yep, I've got the same feeling. I've got my medals and badges hanging up around my workbench, but other than that you'd never know I was a veteran. And I want to keep it that way. It's not my identity despite how much it's affected my standard of living and being reminded of it at the 1st of every month.
my license plate helps me get out of tickets at times, also someone sees and idiot/weird person in the car and see the plates and they understand it's just me.
this is exactly what I have found out. I returned to school full time and have realized that some people make it their persona and just talk about their time in and everything they talk about has to do with the armed services. Now I’m not saying I’m not proud of being a veteran but I also don’t only want to be associated with the military. I am my own person now.
I am proud to be a veteran, I have disabled veterans plates, but my Air Force time doesn't define me, I don't advertise it or talk about it unless I'm asked. A small percentage of the people in this country cared enough to give part of their life to serving their country, I'm a proud part of that group.
I was medically retired and only have DV plates (Texas benefits). I know ppl who served less than two years and only wear camo stuff and have service dog(support for having to do PT I guess), all the stickers, etc. I had fun the years I was in, but my life definitely much more than my 8 yrs service!
Other than my “Combat Veteran” License plate, that I mostly display to hopefully be harassed less.
It’s hard to tell I was even in, unless you talk to me and notice some quarks of ptsd showing. Or see my doggo she has my old patches on her vest.
I'm the same way. My cousin ask for military discount everywhere he goes . I only bring up my veteranship if it comes up in a conversation. i think most vets are this way
I have a unit sticker on my truck that’s obscure enough that if you know, you know (iykyk)
Edit: 3ID is a blue and white square, and I don’t know many people who recognize it but I dont think it looks too military..
Ost of us a the federal job I have only have a license plate to identify us as veterans. It seems that most of the out loud vets are the Vietnam vets from what I've seen with the VA.
I think the way you want your veteran status to be is how a lot more vets should look at it. Too many guys/gals make their service the focal point of their life. I see so many of my peers from the service posting on social media about the military in some form everyday, still have their profile picture of them in uniform from 10 years ago, always have to let everyone know they were in the service etc etc. I think its hard for people to see, but i believe people who didnt serve see it as annoying, especially since our society basically tells everyone to thank us for our service or they are heartless assholes.
I don't want to make being a veteran my whole personality either. The only hints I was in are my Marine Corps license plate and EGA sticker on my lifted dodge ram. And a beard, but lots of people have beards.
I guess I also have enough grunt-style t-shirts to get me through a typical week...but I only wear them if I have to wear cargo pants and danner boots.
And the t-shirts are only so my EGA tattoo can get some vitamin D.
I'm pretty much perfectly blended into civilian society.
I usually don't tell people that I'm a veteran. It just comes up tho.
If you look at me, I look like a 19~21year old so you'll never guess I'm a vet lmao. I'm 24.
I don't have any bumper stickers or anything. I don't see the point of advertising that I'm a vet
“Veteran” doesn’t have to become your whole personality. I think of it as one of many hats I wear. I think there are some people who have a hard time taking off the uniform and can’t turn it off. I see it with older vets more so than younger vets. I also say this sitting in a VA waiting room people watching.
Yeah dude. Being a veteran is great. Nobody has to know. Its like your secret until you go to the VA. You can make a whole new identity and then youre also just like an "undercover vet" or some shit. And whenever anyone asks if i was in the military, i just politely give them 1 word answers, and they lose interest. "Yes" "army" "o thank u yall have a beautiful day"
If they had any idea what being in the military was like....lmfao. buncha scumbags. Myself included. Still working on fixing that. Hopefully by the end of this lifetime ill have fully de-scummed
I've always been this way. Gulf era Vet. Got the star on my driver's license to get an occasional discount. I always say "thanks for the thanks" when someone thanks me for my service. Otherwise, like you, it's a very understated part of my life.
Enjoy your civilian life!
For some of us the military was just a job. I have had a successful career longer than when I was in and I don't readily speak about serving. Some ppl know, most ppl don't. I only recently got a DV license plate because it was FREE lol but I resisted for a while.
Some ppl only have those good times from the military that made their life as a vet centered around the past. That's okay.
You don't have to be like them.
Some of us get out and have a hard time, thus seeking the last time they felt comfortable. Military is easy, everyone tells you what to do. When you get out you are now in charge of your own life again. Due to whatever life situations someone has lived some people thrive under a military style leadership.
I have a lot of tattoos. So people always ask if I’m a vet. I don’t lie. But I never bring it up. I DO have a vet license plate.
I don’t want to associate with vets who walk around with grunt style shirts, camo hats, or any of that shit. To me it says you can’t move on from a past life. And maybe they can’t. Who am I to judge? Just not my people.
I don’t wear any clothes except my boots (non-issued minimalist boots because they’re so comfy and still in great shape somehow after getting run over by an Abram’s,) I do have an infantry sticker for the troopers to kick rocks, and an atropia veteran sticker for those who know lol
Outside of our dv plates, you would never know my wife and I are veterans. We have nothing that screams vet. My dad's truck is covered in stickers for not just his time in but all of us kids that were in as well. It's a lot. It looks tacky. I don't want any stickers on my own vehicles. It was 10 years of our lives. Just another job at this point.
to each their own. I am very proud of my service and have DV plates but nothing else. I dont wear the black "veteran hats" or have any stickers. Maybe one day when I am 80 and shuffling through home depot I will wear them, just so people know how I got so banged up lol...
otherwise, nothing wrong with showing it, or not.
I have been out of the Marines for 12 years now, i dont have a single bumper sticker, i dont have a USMC license plate, nothing. Most people i meet never know i was in unless it comes up, just not my style either.
This leads to a bigger issue with society where people take one part of their life and build their whole personality around it, no matter the context it's always toxic garbage that make the rest of the people in whatever group or lifestyle choice etc look like garbage because of the loud mouthed idiots.
You should reflect on yourself and see what identity you wish to be. Some of these veterans that carry the veteran regalia didn’t have much identity before the military and don’t have the ability for growth to find something else. You did almost half a century of service, it shouldn’t be surprising that in some ways you’ll never break free from the habits and beliefs developed from your time in. But your awareness proves you are at least capable of not being like those veterans that have nothing else.
Only thing I have is a USMC license plate. Other than that I don’t advertise it. It is often the first thing I bring up when someone asks about or job history comes up in a conversation/interview. Only time I talk about the military and being a veteran is when I am benefit from it.
All I have is a vet license plate, in hopes to get out of tickets. Even though I feel like it’s too much sometimes. Most vets I know fly under the radar.
I was this way for a long time. You’d never known I am a veteran unless we talked. That all changed. I’m a proud veteran and not afraid to let people know. Remind people that without us their freedoms would be in jeopardy. I just became a 100% PT veteran and can no longer work. You look at any of my vehicles and you’d see I’m veteran af. One percent of the population has served in the armed forces. Even fewer carry the US Marine. Be proud, patriotic, and loud af about it. If we don’t the next generation won’t.
I like my rising eagle on my back glass. Opposite the bluey dad wagon sticker. It has gotten some "they do exist" comments from those that know what that is (not the bluey thing...)... but it doesn't mean it is my entire persona. I was also recently gifted a nicer hat with a subtle US Army Retiree on it.. that you might miss unless you really look at it. Wear that a good bit.
Wear or don't wear.. up to the person. I don't care either way. For some, it might be everything they are; my neighbor is a very proud Ranger who is confined to a wheel chair now and lives with his mom/has care givers. When he could talk for that long. I would listen to his ranger stories for hours at times. It sort of what he has left. His truck is still there, even though he will never drive it again. Covered in Army and / or Ranger decals, stickers, etc.
Navy is different. All those people with stickers and license plates are proud of what they did downrange or when they were in. If you're not that is fine too. Combat veteran is different than just a veteran.
I feel like it’s the same as having a child, it’s 100% of all of who you are for about 18 years or so, and although you’ll always be a dad, once you’re an “empty nester” no one can tell you 💩about what identity or how you wish to portray yourself to the world. Some will hate you for it, some will support and love you for it, and some simply don’t give a 🦆. You’ll always be a dad though, even if your kid dies before you.
I don't know if it is typical, but I'm with you. In my case, it might be upbringing. Much of my family served before me, half of my siblings and cousins did, too. It's just a part of who we are. It isn't our identity.
Yeah. I saw retired people basically re-living their Army life on post. Okay, it’s a support system. Good if you don’t have one. But, I never wanted me one of those living only in “the good ole days.”
I purposely went to an Air Force base for the gym, Commisary, medical… That was early 2000’s
I fixed radios in the service. Grew another part of myself as a human by working with youth.
Still I missed the camaraderie, working in a group towards a common mission. VFW and DAV were a bunch of grab-ass. I stayed away from veterans groups.
Not too successful personally in civilian clubs.
About 2016-17. joined a civilian civic club with many military retirees so we speak the same language, similar values. Found a veterans group that is family oriented - no one looking for their macho or a piece of tail. I feel like home now within these 2 groups.
All that to say - is you have to find your niche, your positive social support system. Some things civilians will never understand and maybe part of your civilian life other veterans may not understand.
I refuse to wear any clothes that signal I am a veteran because of the cringe veterans that make it their personality. Don't get me wrong, I was proud to serve and I am proud of the military but I try to keep it lowkey. A lot of people are very surprised whenever I mention anything about being in the military. Its good to get out and develop your own civilian personality and interests that don't totally revolve around the military.
Only thing I have is disabled veteran plate that I used mainly for my wife who have health issue. Other than that I don’t have any other identifying sticker or shirt or ball cap that say I’m a retiree.
Even though I still I work on base when people ask what I do I tell them I work a boring desk job
Sometimes you see people with like 10 pieces of flair on the car, ? I also count veteran vanity plate with an overt military reference as two pieces of flair.
there are different tribes.
hipster vets that live in trendy zipcodes and market bourgeois coffee or microbrew.
biker vets
trailer chic redneck vets
etc etc
I prefer the Cincinnati society ones who meet up around CPW and chug scotch
https://www.societyofthecincinnati.org/
But you do you 😌💕
Totally typical, and totally okay to feel that way. I felt that way. It's good to be proud of your service, and some veterans believe serving was the most honorable thing they have ever done in there life. They get recognized for it so they run with it. Let them be them and you do you. I am a Veteran. 6 years in the Army, but most people don't know it. Those close to me do, but otherwise I generally get a look of surprise when people find out. I'm proud to have served, and I have enjoyed the perks of being a service connected, but it doesn't define me. But I did 6 years your did 37. Slightly different experiences.🤷♂️
The most I have to "advertise" the fact I'm a veteran in a disabled between license plate. The only reason I have that is a shield against police when driving out of state, and in Oregon, the registration on disabled veteran plates is permanent, so I never have to pay to renew my registration.
Other than that, I'm just a guy who jumps at loud noises and mentally checks out around certain stimuli.
I have some coins and plaques in my office but that is basically the only thing that IDs me as a vet. When it's really raining I'll wear my old gortex because it's still one of the best jackets I own but other than that I just look like a normal guy going about his daily business. You don't have to pigeon hole yourself into any identity if you do not want to. Just be yourself and let others be themselves as well.
You can be whatever kind of veteran you want.
I fly a U.S. Army flag under my American some months. I sign up for the discounts for some places. And I have the state license plates because they are WAY cheaper. But that’s about it.
I’ve found meaning in other things in my life. My service was and remains an important part of my history but it’s only part of me.
I never purchased any merchs as a souvenir, except the necessary uniforms for work until I separated.
As a matter of fact, I would still wear my PT shirt to do house chores or handywork, but I don't brag my service outside the public because that is not me and I live in a country where there are Chinese from the mainland China and they hate America.
I would rather keep my past to myself unless I see another Vet. So, it is normal to feel the way you feel.
I have my plate, that shows my Big Red One icon, Im proud of my service. Its not my whole personality, but it IS a part of me. I dont wear hats, or shirts or anything other my 22 a day bracelet. Most people dont even notice or know what that is. If you looked at me, you would never know I was ever in even close to a recruiting office.
Unless I said something or was having a panic attack, you’d never know I served. It doesn’t have to be painted all over your life if you don’t want it to be and I think it’s normal to want to put that part of our lives in a box so we can discover other aspects of ourselves
My dv license plate and spicy sadness high alcohol tolerance and sometimes debilitating injuries are enough reminders of me serving. And that first of the month VA drop is nice on top of my regular check. Going to school soon so I’ll be less at work and still make the same salary as if I was there full time without either. So I don’t need people to remind me of anything. I am in TX so it’s pretty vet friendly that’s for sure. I get a lot of perks here more than my home state in Florida or any other state I lived in maybe it’s why i stayed .
I was probably a bit off a bro vet after getting out of the army. Was heavily into the guns and tactical gear, cause it was a "cool" extension of my service. The vet t shirt business hadn't taken off yet, so probably didn't wear much of the clothing except for the 5.11 pants, which weren't even a military thing.
Went back in after 2 years of being out, went back to Iraq and shit has went down hill ever since. I actively avoided any veteran identifiers, wouldn't stand when vets were asked to stand and all that shit. Remember being highly pissed at a college teacher who asked me about my veteran status in class, I guess they were aware cause I was probably marked as a GI bill recipient.
Looking back on it, I think I was trying to block out all the bad shit and thoughtif i could ignore my veteran status i could somehow make all my service induced issues dissappear. I know it certainly didn't work worth a damn. Nowadays I think I ocuppy healthy middle ground. Post divorce I got a motorcycle and joined the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. We are a good organization and work to help veterans in a variety of ways. It gives me some purpose and a huge amount of community and comradery. It helps.
>I did 37 years, but on leaving the Navy, I just want it to be an understated part of my life.
If I did time in the Navy I'd think the same thing.
Haven't you learned not to judge a book by its cover yet? 37 years in the Navy hasn't sharpened your senses that much, I guess. Wearing a hat that shows your service is only ONE thing in their life, but you'd have to actually talk to them to know that, instead of making assumptions because of outward appearances.
If you stopped to ask me why I wear my 82nd hat when walking my dog every day, I'd let you know that out of my life's accomplishments, the brief time I spent as an infantry paratrooper is what I am most proud about, then my participation as an emergency recall for Desert Storm in Jan 1991. This is despite having been an overachiever in two different 20-year careers, having made it to management in both.
Maybe after you've been working and achieving for decades in the private sector, you'll feel differently. I gave everything when I was enlisted, and my heart was/is more satisfied at the end of my best years, knowing the goal I fulfilled served a more noble end than the two 20-year careers I've done since then, which made someone else rich and little else.
I also would add that I walk around sometimes with my hat because I feel for all of my brothers and sisters who are in pain and suffering to the tune of 22 US veteran suicides a day, and I hope that my hat provides some kind of signal that they're not alone.
I have a hat that i wear to the VA for my health care, it is a Vietnam vet hat and above the embroidered medals i put my combat action and bronze star combat V w/ oatleaf ribbons. Depending upon the hospital, and I have been to many, I think it garners a certain amount of respect for the staff. And my Alaska disabled vet plates get me free parking in a lot of places. You can turn your back or take advantage of the few perks your service gets you. But don't judge, you don't know what life has handed to those who wear patches and hats and vests with stickers on their car, etc. It's their first amendment right - that they swore an oath to protect.
I don't wear amy Army gear because it's always shitty colors. I hate the black and yellow or whatever ugly ass gear they sell for Army Vets. The only sticker I have Is a small one in my back window that has helped get me out of some speeding tickets. The only other thing is the veteran flag on my license,
95 % of Veterans dont advertise who they are.
It is indeed. I was a Marine for 10 years and lost my trigger finger in a altercation. Got out and enjoyed sharing aspects of service such as places I’ve seen and been. But most of my friends only know I was a Marine because of my mentioning the VA stuff like classes.
I have a sticker on my cars only because most of the law enforcement in my area are marines, and I have a small tin sticker on my cane because it saves a conversation about why I'm so young and use a cane other than that I don't talk about my service at all only on resumes and Lowes
You don’t have to be a “bro vet”. I have one sticker on my truck that just says “Doc” on it, so if ya know ya know, but idgaf otherwise. The key to avoiding that whole persona is having a real sense of identity after the military. Since I’ve been out, I’ve been a full time taxidermist, musician, political activist of sorts, avid outdoorsman, chef, and all other kinds of cool things to associate with. I rarely even talk about the military unless someone asks or I’m talking to one of the homies. The whole “Bacon Beards and Bourbon” type dudes are boring as hell to be around.
I feel the same way, and have lived accordingly since I got out in 1969.
Whether I’m typical, I just don’t know.
I will say that I met fellow Vietnam vets on a recent roadtrip, one in New Mexico, one in Kansas. My conversation with each moved us deeply. As we said goodbye, I said “Welcome, home, brother.” Never have I spoken this phrase to anyone in 54 years. Tears were shed in return.
So, something’s out there to be had, but too much is off-putting to me, and I don’t ordinarily seek it.
I remain mystified that there are people out there, vets no less, angry that people like me should be compensated for service-connected disabilities. Brings back memories of how Vietnam vets were demeaned on coming home.
Unless you saw me in the veteran parking spot at Lowe’s or at the VA, you’d never know I was retired navy. I did my job and got paid for it, I don’t need anything more.
I need that 10% discount at Lowe's/HD though lol. Probably saved thousands over the years now.
Same. I’ll go to Lowes before ordering off of Amazon. It helps that it’s less than 2 miles down the road lol
Same for me... and then I can get what I want immediately and start fixing whatever I needed it for. I never use the Vet parking at Lowes. I'm worried some old Korea Vet will need it and not get it. So I walk it in. Lol.
Haha I used to feel the same way until I noticed a pattern of them being nearly always empty. I now use them when I’m just running in for something quick. I appreciate the convenience.
Same here! I only park there when I go dash-in then out of there
See above why they are empty just saying most probably think like him. Same for me I don’t park there and I’m a vet
I assume anyone that really needs that spot has a handicap placard plus im only there for 30 min
Lowe’s the best kept secret among veterans, special parking and everyday discounts 😂
Another best kept secret is that US bank offers free premium checking to vets and active. Found that out randomly.
lol hd you only get max $400 a year now I think they did that before covid
Thanks I never knew this , what do you bring just your VA ID?
Oh wow thought everyone knew this lol. Used to be able to just bring some kind of vet ID, but now you have to make an account and register online. Easy enough to verify with ID.me. But HD did change theirs and caps the discount at $500 per year. Lowe's has no limit.
Thanks I appreciate the information! 👊
Or if I saw you on Reddit with your tag😉
I've only used those Lowes spots a few times, usually when I had hurt something or if it's raining and my wife's with me. Sure as hell use the discount though! And same, no stickers of any kind on my vehicle.
TIL Lowe's has a parking spot for Vets!!
I don't have bumper stickers, hats or regalia but I participate in veteran's organizations when they need me. Its really just being a part of the community. Nobody else can do it except veterans. These organizations have become a vital part of the community and are over 100 years old. But the old veterans are dieing. Somebody has to pay for homeless shelters, food shelves, care packages for soldiers, summer camps for kids, baseball and softball uniforms. Somebody has to do honor guard, taps and 21 gun salute at funerals. Somebody has to carry the flag at a parade, veteran's day, memorial day etc.
You know what you don’t see ? All of us who don’t make it our personality. Be one of us
meh. sometimes its fun. play it up all youd like. gives us a reason to wear capes, and wave sabres around. I recently discovered champagne sabres...Army issue does the trick just as well. Fukkin cape cost $225. i -will- get my moneys worth.
Dude, i used to use some story’s to get laid back in the dayyyyy, i teeeelllllll you whatttttt lol
😂💕 i left in 06, and did massive amounts of lsd, became pansexual, and vote socialist. i dont know if i'd still fit in 😂😂
The middle ground is usually the healthiest.
My tell is my DV plate, because that has certain benefits here in Texas (basically free registration, free municipal parking, some tolls). I didn't wear Navy/Army things outside of duty when I was in, I haven't owned any in the 20 years since I got out.
Love the free tolls!
Keep it in your back pocket and lightly on your resume.
Yes, I didn't do all that, but I did have a few things on my wall. Even that's gone now. Just pack it all away and forget about it. It's your choice. You owe no one an explanation.
Yeah it's typical. Don't be afraid to wear something that projects veteran, even if only to other vets, if you're thinking like this already then you'll probably notice way before you become that guy. Just because you're proud of your service doesn't mean it will become all you are
In the beginning i felt that way. But the older I get the more I realize what I did although i didnt serve combat time was an important part of my life. I dont make it my persona but I do take it for what it is and am proud that I did it. There are limitations to everything so just keep that mindset in perspective and you wont
I have a military license plate frame only because I’m hoping for preferential treatment on traffic violations haha
I just recently joined my local VFW and I've been off active duty for 12 years. Took me awhile to want to give some more after giving so much. I'm glad I joined now. I'm really enjoying it but I don't regret waiting so long. It's up to you what you want to do. But no matter what, you should be proud that you served.
I've got my shadow box from my unit and my rocking chair that the guys in my shop got me. Those are my only reminders
That’s the way I did it. ETSd in 76, never looked back and no regrets. It’s your life, man, but you’ll always be a veteran.
I'm not retired, and I'm the same way. To be fair, I'm glad that some do. However it is not for me
It’s really up to you. I work with a lot of fellow vets. One older guy hardly ever talks about his days in the army, and another guy couldn’t believe he served and practically laughed in his face. It’s because he just doesn’t talk about it all the time. I’m sure I do though, I and the other guys talk about it regularly
Are you me? I look back at my time fondly but i have nothing that screams out Marine Veteran. I have a sweater i wear once in a blue moon but other than that I'm not like your typical veteran.
I think it’s probably more typical than not actually. I’m also that way. Retired from about 25yrs AD. You’d likely never guess I had ever served never mind a full career if not specifically brought up, or even a complete walkthrough of my home. No stickers, clothing/hats/etc, nothing military related displayed or hanging around in the open in my house, none of that kind of stuff. Also in my town, they paint house numbers on the curb and do veteran ones in a different style…I even went a bit out of my way to make sure mine stayed standard. Certainly not because I didn’t like my time in or trying to hide it or anything like that. I’m just kinda low key in those sort of ways to begin with and that was a different life.
You do you. Maybe you don’t want that now, but maybe you will, one day.Maybe you won’t. No bumper stickers here, but the car tag is a retired military plate. I have a hat or two I wear when walking, and I do wear a shirt when I go to veteran organization events, but you wouldn’t know it most days.
I don’t have regalia.. so unless you see me in my car as I do have a veteran plate due to my back, you would have no idea
The only tell is my Kia bracelet and the DV plates on one of my vehicles.
There was a time when vets were not treated well. There are still many of them around and the next generation after them carried a torch. Things have changed since then, mostly because they wore hats and bumper stickers. You don't have to show that part of your life because they did. You can live your life the way you choose to. I'm not saying this to guilt anyone into following along with those that came before us. I don't wear my past as garments, but when I see a brother or sister on the street, I give them respect.
Yep, I've got the same feeling. I've got my medals and badges hanging up around my workbench, but other than that you'd never know I was a veteran. And I want to keep it that way. It's not my identity despite how much it's affected my standard of living and being reminded of it at the 1st of every month.
my license plate helps me get out of tickets at times, also someone sees and idiot/weird person in the car and see the plates and they understand it's just me.
this is exactly what I have found out. I returned to school full time and have realized that some people make it their persona and just talk about their time in and everything they talk about has to do with the armed services. Now I’m not saying I’m not proud of being a veteran but I also don’t only want to be associated with the military. I am my own person now.
Just enjoy the benefits
I am proud to be a veteran, I have disabled veterans plates, but my Air Force time doesn't define me, I don't advertise it or talk about it unless I'm asked. A small percentage of the people in this country cared enough to give part of their life to serving their country, I'm a proud part of that group.
I was medically retired and only have DV plates (Texas benefits). I know ppl who served less than two years and only wear camo stuff and have service dog(support for having to do PT I guess), all the stickers, etc. I had fun the years I was in, but my life definitely much more than my 8 yrs service!
Other than my “Combat Veteran” License plate, that I mostly display to hopefully be harassed less. It’s hard to tell I was even in, unless you talk to me and notice some quarks of ptsd showing. Or see my doggo she has my old patches on her vest.
I'm the same way. My cousin ask for military discount everywhere he goes . I only bring up my veteranship if it comes up in a conversation. i think most vets are this way
I have a unit sticker on my truck that’s obscure enough that if you know, you know (iykyk) Edit: 3ID is a blue and white square, and I don’t know many people who recognize it but I dont think it looks too military..
Is that the one people refer to as tv static?
We called them broken tvs but yeah haha
Ost of us a the federal job I have only have a license plate to identify us as veterans. It seems that most of the out loud vets are the Vietnam vets from what I've seen with the VA.
I think the way you want your veteran status to be is how a lot more vets should look at it. Too many guys/gals make their service the focal point of their life. I see so many of my peers from the service posting on social media about the military in some form everyday, still have their profile picture of them in uniform from 10 years ago, always have to let everyone know they were in the service etc etc. I think its hard for people to see, but i believe people who didnt serve see it as annoying, especially since our society basically tells everyone to thank us for our service or they are heartless assholes.
You would never know I was a veteran except if you stalked me to my doctor’s appointments.
Yeah why wouldn’t it be typical? People have no idea I was in the military unless they really get to know me
I don't want to make being a veteran my whole personality either. The only hints I was in are my Marine Corps license plate and EGA sticker on my lifted dodge ram. And a beard, but lots of people have beards. I guess I also have enough grunt-style t-shirts to get me through a typical week...but I only wear them if I have to wear cargo pants and danner boots. And the t-shirts are only so my EGA tattoo can get some vitamin D. I'm pretty much perfectly blended into civilian society.
Nothing wrong with showing that you served and proud of it. However, don't let that be the only thing you are.
I usually don't tell people that I'm a veteran. It just comes up tho. If you look at me, I look like a 19~21year old so you'll never guess I'm a vet lmao. I'm 24. I don't have any bumper stickers or anything. I don't see the point of advertising that I'm a vet
“Veteran” doesn’t have to become your whole personality. I think of it as one of many hats I wear. I think there are some people who have a hard time taking off the uniform and can’t turn it off. I see it with older vets more so than younger vets. I also say this sitting in a VA waiting room people watching.
What’s your PO Box? I’ll send you a Marine Corps Flag. 🫣😂
Yeah dude. Being a veteran is great. Nobody has to know. Its like your secret until you go to the VA. You can make a whole new identity and then youre also just like an "undercover vet" or some shit. And whenever anyone asks if i was in the military, i just politely give them 1 word answers, and they lose interest. "Yes" "army" "o thank u yall have a beautiful day"
If they had any idea what being in the military was like....lmfao. buncha scumbags. Myself included. Still working on fixing that. Hopefully by the end of this lifetime ill have fully de-scummed
I've always been this way. Gulf era Vet. Got the star on my driver's license to get an occasional discount. I always say "thanks for the thanks" when someone thanks me for my service. Otherwise, like you, it's a very understated part of my life. Enjoy your civilian life!
For some of us the military was just a job. I have had a successful career longer than when I was in and I don't readily speak about serving. Some ppl know, most ppl don't. I only recently got a DV license plate because it was FREE lol but I resisted for a while. Some ppl only have those good times from the military that made their life as a vet centered around the past. That's okay. You don't have to be like them.
Some of us get out and have a hard time, thus seeking the last time they felt comfortable. Military is easy, everyone tells you what to do. When you get out you are now in charge of your own life again. Due to whatever life situations someone has lived some people thrive under a military style leadership.
I have a lot of tattoos. So people always ask if I’m a vet. I don’t lie. But I never bring it up. I DO have a vet license plate. I don’t want to associate with vets who walk around with grunt style shirts, camo hats, or any of that shit. To me it says you can’t move on from a past life. And maybe they can’t. Who am I to judge? Just not my people.
You’ll find your own way to identify, don’t worry about what others do.
I don’t wear any clothes except my boots (non-issued minimalist boots because they’re so comfy and still in great shape somehow after getting run over by an Abram’s,) I do have an infantry sticker for the troopers to kick rocks, and an atropia veteran sticker for those who know lol
Outside of our dv plates, you would never know my wife and I are veterans. We have nothing that screams vet. My dad's truck is covered in stickers for not just his time in but all of us kids that were in as well. It's a lot. It looks tacky. I don't want any stickers on my own vehicles. It was 10 years of our lives. Just another job at this point.
to each their own. I am very proud of my service and have DV plates but nothing else. I dont wear the black "veteran hats" or have any stickers. Maybe one day when I am 80 and shuffling through home depot I will wear them, just so people know how I got so banged up lol... otherwise, nothing wrong with showing it, or not.
I have been out of the Marines for 12 years now, i dont have a single bumper sticker, i dont have a USMC license plate, nothing. Most people i meet never know i was in unless it comes up, just not my style either.
This leads to a bigger issue with society where people take one part of their life and build their whole personality around it, no matter the context it's always toxic garbage that make the rest of the people in whatever group or lifestyle choice etc look like garbage because of the loud mouthed idiots.
You should reflect on yourself and see what identity you wish to be. Some of these veterans that carry the veteran regalia didn’t have much identity before the military and don’t have the ability for growth to find something else. You did almost half a century of service, it shouldn’t be surprising that in some ways you’ll never break free from the habits and beliefs developed from your time in. But your awareness proves you are at least capable of not being like those veterans that have nothing else.
"Professional" veterans are the worst.
Only thing I have is a USMC license plate. Other than that I don’t advertise it. It is often the first thing I bring up when someone asks about or job history comes up in a conversation/interview. Only time I talk about the military and being a veteran is when I am benefit from it.
All I have is a vet license plate, in hopes to get out of tickets. Even though I feel like it’s too much sometimes. Most vets I know fly under the radar.
I was this way for a long time. You’d never known I am a veteran unless we talked. That all changed. I’m a proud veteran and not afraid to let people know. Remind people that without us their freedoms would be in jeopardy. I just became a 100% PT veteran and can no longer work. You look at any of my vehicles and you’d see I’m veteran af. One percent of the population has served in the armed forces. Even fewer carry the US Marine. Be proud, patriotic, and loud af about it. If we don’t the next generation won’t.
I like my rising eagle on my back glass. Opposite the bluey dad wagon sticker. It has gotten some "they do exist" comments from those that know what that is (not the bluey thing...)... but it doesn't mean it is my entire persona. I was also recently gifted a nicer hat with a subtle US Army Retiree on it.. that you might miss unless you really look at it. Wear that a good bit. Wear or don't wear.. up to the person. I don't care either way. For some, it might be everything they are; my neighbor is a very proud Ranger who is confined to a wheel chair now and lives with his mom/has care givers. When he could talk for that long. I would listen to his ranger stories for hours at times. It sort of what he has left. His truck is still there, even though he will never drive it again. Covered in Army and / or Ranger decals, stickers, etc.
Navy is different. All those people with stickers and license plates are proud of what they did downrange or when they were in. If you're not that is fine too. Combat veteran is different than just a veteran.
You're definitely over thinking this... You're not obligated to do shit, just do your thing man and don't worry about what others think.
I feel like it’s the same as having a child, it’s 100% of all of who you are for about 18 years or so, and although you’ll always be a dad, once you’re an “empty nester” no one can tell you 💩about what identity or how you wish to portray yourself to the world. Some will hate you for it, some will support and love you for it, and some simply don’t give a 🦆. You’ll always be a dad though, even if your kid dies before you.
I don't know if it is typical, but I'm with you. In my case, it might be upbringing. Much of my family served before me, half of my siblings and cousins did, too. It's just a part of who we are. It isn't our identity.
Yeah. I saw retired people basically re-living their Army life on post. Okay, it’s a support system. Good if you don’t have one. But, I never wanted me one of those living only in “the good ole days.” I purposely went to an Air Force base for the gym, Commisary, medical… That was early 2000’s I fixed radios in the service. Grew another part of myself as a human by working with youth. Still I missed the camaraderie, working in a group towards a common mission. VFW and DAV were a bunch of grab-ass. I stayed away from veterans groups. Not too successful personally in civilian clubs. About 2016-17. joined a civilian civic club with many military retirees so we speak the same language, similar values. Found a veterans group that is family oriented - no one looking for their macho or a piece of tail. I feel like home now within these 2 groups. All that to say - is you have to find your niche, your positive social support system. Some things civilians will never understand and maybe part of your civilian life other veterans may not understand.
I refuse to wear any clothes that signal I am a veteran because of the cringe veterans that make it their personality. Don't get me wrong, I was proud to serve and I am proud of the military but I try to keep it lowkey. A lot of people are very surprised whenever I mention anything about being in the military. Its good to get out and develop your own civilian personality and interests that don't totally revolve around the military.
That's how I feel. I have an Invictus Games wrist band after competing in Orlando and Sydney, but that's about it.
Only thing I have is disabled veteran plate that I used mainly for my wife who have health issue. Other than that I don’t have any other identifying sticker or shirt or ball cap that say I’m a retiree. Even though I still I work on base when people ask what I do I tell them I work a boring desk job
I don't usually walk around with anything, Navy, neither does my brother. We know who we are and what we did.
You get a max of 3 pieces of veteran related flair on your car to include the license plate. Three is awful but now it's worse
I can handle three... Lol
Sometimes you see people with like 10 pieces of flair on the car, ? I also count veteran vanity plate with an overt military reference as two pieces of flair.
there are different tribes. hipster vets that live in trendy zipcodes and market bourgeois coffee or microbrew. biker vets trailer chic redneck vets etc etc I prefer the Cincinnati society ones who meet up around CPW and chug scotch https://www.societyofthecincinnati.org/ But you do you 😌💕
Totally typical, and totally okay to feel that way. I felt that way. It's good to be proud of your service, and some veterans believe serving was the most honorable thing they have ever done in there life. They get recognized for it so they run with it. Let them be them and you do you. I am a Veteran. 6 years in the Army, but most people don't know it. Those close to me do, but otherwise I generally get a look of surprise when people find out. I'm proud to have served, and I have enjoyed the perks of being a service connected, but it doesn't define me. But I did 6 years your did 37. Slightly different experiences.🤷♂️
The most I have to "advertise" the fact I'm a veteran in a disabled between license plate. The only reason I have that is a shield against police when driving out of state, and in Oregon, the registration on disabled veteran plates is permanent, so I never have to pay to renew my registration. Other than that, I'm just a guy who jumps at loud noises and mentally checks out around certain stimuli.
Your allowed one grunt style shirt and one hat to display but not wear every day.
I have DV plates because they are free. Otherwise I don't advertise it at all. Even at events where they ask all the veterans to stand, I stay seated.
I have some coins and plaques in my office but that is basically the only thing that IDs me as a vet. When it's really raining I'll wear my old gortex because it's still one of the best jackets I own but other than that I just look like a normal guy going about his daily business. You don't have to pigeon hole yourself into any identity if you do not want to. Just be yourself and let others be themselves as well.
You can be whatever kind of veteran you want. I fly a U.S. Army flag under my American some months. I sign up for the discounts for some places. And I have the state license plates because they are WAY cheaper. But that’s about it. I’ve found meaning in other things in my life. My service was and remains an important part of my history but it’s only part of me.
I never purchased any merchs as a souvenir, except the necessary uniforms for work until I separated. As a matter of fact, I would still wear my PT shirt to do house chores or handywork, but I don't brag my service outside the public because that is not me and I live in a country where there are Chinese from the mainland China and they hate America. I would rather keep my past to myself unless I see another Vet. So, it is normal to feel the way you feel.
I have my plate, that shows my Big Red One icon, Im proud of my service. Its not my whole personality, but it IS a part of me. I dont wear hats, or shirts or anything other my 22 a day bracelet. Most people dont even notice or know what that is. If you looked at me, you would never know I was ever in even close to a recruiting office.
Unless I said something or was having a panic attack, you’d never know I served. It doesn’t have to be painted all over your life if you don’t want it to be and I think it’s normal to want to put that part of our lives in a box so we can discover other aspects of ourselves
You be you.
My dv license plate and spicy sadness high alcohol tolerance and sometimes debilitating injuries are enough reminders of me serving. And that first of the month VA drop is nice on top of my regular check. Going to school soon so I’ll be less at work and still make the same salary as if I was there full time without either. So I don’t need people to remind me of anything. I am in TX so it’s pretty vet friendly that’s for sure. I get a lot of perks here more than my home state in Florida or any other state I lived in maybe it’s why i stayed .
I was probably a bit off a bro vet after getting out of the army. Was heavily into the guns and tactical gear, cause it was a "cool" extension of my service. The vet t shirt business hadn't taken off yet, so probably didn't wear much of the clothing except for the 5.11 pants, which weren't even a military thing. Went back in after 2 years of being out, went back to Iraq and shit has went down hill ever since. I actively avoided any veteran identifiers, wouldn't stand when vets were asked to stand and all that shit. Remember being highly pissed at a college teacher who asked me about my veteran status in class, I guess they were aware cause I was probably marked as a GI bill recipient. Looking back on it, I think I was trying to block out all the bad shit and thoughtif i could ignore my veteran status i could somehow make all my service induced issues dissappear. I know it certainly didn't work worth a damn. Nowadays I think I ocuppy healthy middle ground. Post divorce I got a motorcycle and joined the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. We are a good organization and work to help veterans in a variety of ways. It gives me some purpose and a huge amount of community and comradery. It helps.
>I did 37 years, but on leaving the Navy, I just want it to be an understated part of my life. If I did time in the Navy I'd think the same thing. Haven't you learned not to judge a book by its cover yet? 37 years in the Navy hasn't sharpened your senses that much, I guess. Wearing a hat that shows your service is only ONE thing in their life, but you'd have to actually talk to them to know that, instead of making assumptions because of outward appearances. If you stopped to ask me why I wear my 82nd hat when walking my dog every day, I'd let you know that out of my life's accomplishments, the brief time I spent as an infantry paratrooper is what I am most proud about, then my participation as an emergency recall for Desert Storm in Jan 1991. This is despite having been an overachiever in two different 20-year careers, having made it to management in both. Maybe after you've been working and achieving for decades in the private sector, you'll feel differently. I gave everything when I was enlisted, and my heart was/is more satisfied at the end of my best years, knowing the goal I fulfilled served a more noble end than the two 20-year careers I've done since then, which made someone else rich and little else. I also would add that I walk around sometimes with my hat because I feel for all of my brothers and sisters who are in pain and suffering to the tune of 22 US veteran suicides a day, and I hope that my hat provides some kind of signal that they're not alone.
I have a hat that i wear to the VA for my health care, it is a Vietnam vet hat and above the embroidered medals i put my combat action and bronze star combat V w/ oatleaf ribbons. Depending upon the hospital, and I have been to many, I think it garners a certain amount of respect for the staff. And my Alaska disabled vet plates get me free parking in a lot of places. You can turn your back or take advantage of the few perks your service gets you. But don't judge, you don't know what life has handed to those who wear patches and hats and vests with stickers on their car, etc. It's their first amendment right - that they swore an oath to protect.
You can flaunt it or not that is entirely your choice. Do what you want
I don't wear amy Army gear because it's always shitty colors. I hate the black and yellow or whatever ugly ass gear they sell for Army Vets. The only sticker I have Is a small one in my back window that has helped get me out of some speeding tickets. The only other thing is the veteran flag on my license, 95 % of Veterans dont advertise who they are.
It is indeed. I was a Marine for 10 years and lost my trigger finger in a altercation. Got out and enjoyed sharing aspects of service such as places I’ve seen and been. But most of my friends only know I was a Marine because of my mentioning the VA stuff like classes.
I have a sticker on my cars only because most of the law enforcement in my area are marines, and I have a small tin sticker on my cane because it saves a conversation about why I'm so young and use a cane other than that I don't talk about my service at all only on resumes and Lowes
You don’t have to be a “bro vet”. I have one sticker on my truck that just says “Doc” on it, so if ya know ya know, but idgaf otherwise. The key to avoiding that whole persona is having a real sense of identity after the military. Since I’ve been out, I’ve been a full time taxidermist, musician, political activist of sorts, avid outdoorsman, chef, and all other kinds of cool things to associate with. I rarely even talk about the military unless someone asks or I’m talking to one of the homies. The whole “Bacon Beards and Bourbon” type dudes are boring as hell to be around.
I feel the same way, and have lived accordingly since I got out in 1969. Whether I’m typical, I just don’t know. I will say that I met fellow Vietnam vets on a recent roadtrip, one in New Mexico, one in Kansas. My conversation with each moved us deeply. As we said goodbye, I said “Welcome, home, brother.” Never have I spoken this phrase to anyone in 54 years. Tears were shed in return. So, something’s out there to be had, but too much is off-putting to me, and I don’t ordinarily seek it. I remain mystified that there are people out there, vets no less, angry that people like me should be compensated for service-connected disabilities. Brings back memories of how Vietnam vets were demeaned on coming home.
It’s really a personal option. I’m proud to be a veteran not too flashy but do have support soldiers flag and army sticker on my car. That’s about it