Understanding Military Traditions: Exploring the Why Behind the What
Introduction
Welcome readers to the “Common Veterans Podcast: Season 1 Addendum,” where we delve into the rich tapestry of military traditions, unraveling their deeper meanings and historical significance. We’ll uncover why these practices endure, shedding light on the unique mindset and sense of humor prevalent among military members.
The Purpose of Traditions
Military traditions are more than rituals; they serve as threads weaving together the fabric of camaraderie, honor, and history within the armed forces. Understanding their origins provides a deeper appreciation for the cultural backbone of military life.
Traditions Are Traditional
The Salute
From its roots in the Middle Ages as a gesture of peace to its modern-day symbolism of respect and recognition, the salute is a cornerstone of military etiquette.
Taps and Reveille
The solemnity of waking to a cornet’s notes and the symbolism behind honoring the national colors being lowered underscore the reverence for duty and sacrifice.
Covers (Hats) Outside
Beyond fashion, these headpieces signify protection, camouflage, and a visible marker of rank, fostering a sense of unity and distinction among service members.
Being Pinned
The act of pinning, whether for rank or awards, represents a badge of honor earned through dedication, sacrifice, and the pursuit of excellence. It’s a tangible symbol of one’s journey and accomplishments.
Because We Can
Military balls, replete with unique rituals like the Army’s “Grogg” or the Air Force’s “Jeff,” offer glimpses into the unit’s identity and shared experiences, strengthening bonds among comrades.
Walking the Line
Physical Training (PT) and Uniforms
Beyond physical fitness, PT instills discipline and preparedness, while uniforms promote unity and morale—a visual representation of a collective identity.
Hazing
A controversial practice that, in elite units, serves to test resilience and integration. Stories from these experiences illuminate the dynamics within these specialized circles.
Battle Buddies and Group Dynamics
Emphasizing the importance of teamwork, battle buddies epitomize the ethos of collective success and safety, forming the backbone of military operations.
Deployments and Beyond
Embracing More Traditions
Exploring further traditions or quirks unique to different branches or deployments, highlighting the diversity and richness of military cultures.
Conclusion
Addendum II Teaser
As we conclude this deep dive into military traditions, stay tuned for our next podcast, “Take This Job and Shove It,” where we explore the service concept and possibly feature a special guest shedding light on their experiences.
Episode 10:
Friends in Low Places VFW,
DAV, American Legion, Marine Corps League, and other fraternal organizations
are there for Veterans. This breakdown of the organizations talks to members about
the benefits of these program's camaraderie. The Common Veterans represent
FreedomSystem.org’s martial arts and mountain bike association.
I.
Introduction
i.
Friends in Low Places
1.
Introduce the standby Veteran Fraternal Organizations and their
missions and why.
ii.
Brief Overview of the benefits of the group
1.
Positives
2.
Negatives
II.
More Than Just Bars
a.
Bartenders are there, but that isn’t the only reason for them to
be there.
i.
Drinking socially good? Or Bad?
1.
Opens up.
2.
Opens up too much.
ii.
It’s a social club…
1.
Camaraderie is built here among Veterans from all different age
groups.
2.
Not a lot of physicality
3.
Has to be open to the public or will not survive monetarily.
b.
Some organizations are not attached to bars.
i.
FreedomSystem.org is not a bar, but do meet at fraternal
organizations that have them
1.
FSO focuses on fitness and shared experiences from military
service.
2.
FSO supports fraternal organizations through shared goals
ii.
Team RWB is a fitness organization
1.
Originally a totally Veteran organization, it now allows
non-veterans to run their goals
a.
Puts non-vets in leadership roles
iii.
Fraternal organizations often have specific goals and only allow
specific people to join them
1.
Marine Corps League
2.
VFW
3.
DAV
III.
Stories, The Fish is Always Bigger
a.
Members tell stories of their exploits.
i.
Common Veterans share their military stories.
1.
Stories become what everyone needs.
2.
Shared experiences from different combat times help create more
fraternization and become friends.
ii.
Different organizations, different stories?
1.
Multi-members have different experiences in different
organizations and go to different areas for different types of camaraderie.
a.
VFW then to DAV, etcetera
b.
Moose and Eagles
c.
American Legions and Auxiliaries
IV.
Join or nah?
a.
Joining a fraternal organization can have its merits…
i.
Positives
ii.
Negatives
iii.
Neutrals
V.
Conclusion
a.
Recap fraternal organizations' essential role in
supporting veterans and fostering camaraderie.
b.
Encouragement for listeners to explore and
support these organizations or similar initiatives in their communities.
c.
Closing thoughts emphasize the importance of
camaraderie in veterans' journey and the impact it has on their lives.
VI.
Next Episode – Next Season
a. Our next episode is or next season, but
there may be a few more episodes this season that pop out of nowhere! Stay
tuned.
