RETIRING FROM SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMES WITH UNIQUE CHALLENGES; FEAT RET. MARINE RAIDER CODY ALFORD

Ret. Marine Raider MSgt Cody Alford and Marine Raider Nick Koumalatsos discuss transitioning out of special operations and the struggles that can come with entering into the civilian world.
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[@DixieNormas]

These dudes just perfectly explained why so many good Marines do 4yrs and bail.

[@geoffsmith76]

TheDude like you read my mind lol. Just being an 0311 sucks so bad. I miss my buddies but fck that shit lol

[@shinobi-media]

Not just Marines, throughout the whole Military Branches. If it wasn't a whole political game passed those 8years Im pretty sure, majority of enlistees would still be in.

[@kruiztorres021]

1oo% agree it's why I EAS at Nov 17, 2017 due to the shit they explained.

[@wvusmc]

I left after my first enlistment in 2004 because I was just spent at that point, even though I was only 22. Still regret it to this day.

[@DannyRmorales]

It's not just the marines. I was in the Army and had the same exact experience.

[@abelincoln8667]

Before I left for Parris Island my recruiter told me I would go through culture shock. No one told me I would also go through culture shock when I got out.

[@hheythered]

True that

[@johnm249]

Man USA has changed a whole lot since Ronald Reagan was President.

[@JH-hx2cl]

It was worse getting out than going in.

[@bipedalhominid6815]

Literally everyone of your SNCOs probably warned you about it.

[@averagecitizen8491]

@Dave Chappelle Depends on the MOS.

[@abepeterson]

I WANT EVERYONE TO READ THIS: When I enlisted in the United States Marine corps I was lucky. I had an extremely good Recruiter and Gunnery Sargent. On my way back home (four hour drive) it was just me and my Gunnery Sargent in the car. He said one thing to me that I will never forget. He said: You have to remember this Abe, when you become a Marine you're all on the same level. Yes you have to listen to rank, have to respect your leaders BUT don't EVER let someone disrespect you. If you need help, get it. It doesn't matter what they say to you speak up against them. You do you but as a team. You're not letting your team down you're getting yourself in a spot through help to help your team in a much better way.

[@barnesrm76]

Had a Sgt Major tell me the basically the same thing. Said, 'see that young devil?one day youll have to take orders from those dipshits.always remember, you were a man before you were a Marine' said with regard to watching some officers run a fucking flag up upside down

[@gja111075]

Sergeant as in Gunnery Sergeant

[@AyAngelchillfoo1315]

Gunnery sergeant *

[@abefonseca3582]

Well Abe Peterson, this is the second podcast that I've listened to and it looks like I'm one or two years behind. Interesting enough, an evolution has taken place. I volunteered in 1968 and left to San Diego in 1969 when I was turned 18. I was awarded the highest scores on physical fitness in San Diego, and after AOI at Camp Pendleton then assigned an Illustrator MOS . You should have seen everyone's faces, including mine, trying to figure out what was an illustrator when the MOS assignments were made. Anyway, after my tour overseas, I got out to take care of my father. USMC 69-73

[@aladinhegic3306]

@@barnesrm76 yea there is always some clumsy fucks around,idk how they make it in army hah

[@jagger21256]

The hardest thing I have ever faced was retirement, my whole identity was serving. Reinventing myself has been the toughest battle for me, through the love of Christ, supporting family, life after service will be good.

[@NKshowclips]

Check this out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJXFdJWYpMisbbs

[@ronnanbauman9538]

How old are you sir?

[@absoluteManiac]

no it won't. life is service. service to country, service to family. any other thing is just bullshit. otherwise retire and seclude yourself to the woods with family and farm.

[@WestCoastBroodWar]

Yes, exactly, I am a former Ranger from 2nd Battalion, and you hit your comment right on point! You feel unimportant, and you don't have a direction of where to go next. Who are you now? Who will you be? Who were you before. You do have to reinvent yourself and it is tough, but where to take your fight next, that is the big question. Then the means we use in these combat roles don't always translate on the surface level. I am speaking about violence of action specifically. Sometimes leadership methods to transfer, but re-learning to communicate with non-military, non-operators, can be very difficult. But we do have a mission state-side, it is to provide for our families and our communities always through the lens of morals and ethics.

[@3750DOAL]

Yeah. My job description was basically "killing people and breaking their shit". Me and Christ are going to have an awkward conversation come judgement day.

[@GideonsSword777]

Cody, not only do you have the heart of a lion, but you also have the heart of a servant. Making sure that the guys under your command are not only taken care of physically, but mentally. You sir are a great human being! Don’t forget that!

[@riouris2603]

Leaving at 15 years was the hardest thing I've ever done. But my reasons for being in were becoming more and more difficult, I hate politics. Combined with having my shoulder rebuilt, both knees are shot and "bad" back from head to tail, it was time. It was a very hard 3 or so years before I could get my head and heart right after leaving. The realization that I was only going to be working for money, there was/is no higher/larger purpose, was devastating.

[@reallyhappenings5597]

Your service will not end, it will only change form and there are many forms. Sure, maybe not the grand stage of war and peace, right and wrong etc. But in civilian life, there are just so many different ways to serve with a deep sense of purpose. So I would encourage you to remember that, and just take the next logical step on the mission you have been engaged in. Of course you've been out 3 years so maybe I'm just talking to myself here but I think it's important to remember for all who need to operate from a deep sense of purpose in their work.

[@riouris2603]

I've been out for 8 years, just sharing my story. I'm more than okay now.

[@TheYaegerjeusmc]

Fred, you've been brainwashed. Seek professional help. Immediately.

[@riouris2603]

Well since math is hard for you obviously, I enlisted well before 9/11 happened. And since you need to have what any service member's higher purpose is explained to you; it would be a waste of time to even answer because you obviously will never understand. What smear did you supposedly read in my brief reply about my experience of getting out of the Marine Corps? What have YOU done to do anything for anyone other than sit behind a keyboard and research OTHER'S experiences, ideas and conclusions in life?

[@sgtrickards5683]

I got out at the end of 2015 and still ain't got it right. I miss the brotherhood and purpose.

[@03thebulletdodger]

As an infantry E-5 (2007-2016) with multiple combat tours I experienced a bit of scrutiny as I transitioned out. Towards the end of my run, a lot of emotions I had bottled up started arising. I started noticing i wasn’t the same. Irritability, anxiety, couldn’t concentrate, couldn’t even stand up and talk to my guys at times. So I went to the concussion care clinic in Lake O’Neal and got myself checked out. I discovered I have TBI from all the fun I’ve been having during my enlistment. I had a senior Marine ask me when I was going to stop going to appointments. When was I going to start acting like a "real" Sergeant. listening to you and Cody talk about these unspoken issues really brings it home. I love the Marine Corps but I started to dislike the Marines around me. I started to feel as if I was just another number. At the end, I felt like I was being thrown away. I’ve been watching your videos more and more and I just want to say thank you for talking about it. Semper fi!

[@NKshowclips]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJXFdJWYpMisbbs It is kind of funny but reading that was like reading my own story. Check out the link, I think you will appreciate it. It is actually the basis for my book that goes on pre-sale October 1 and available Nov 1. I imagine it will be like reading your own story. -Nick

[@followerofgms8294]

Yeah uncle same no longer loves you once you are getting out

[@gja111075]

Obviously an army dog. USMC we say Sergeant never E5

[@lwrii1912]

Unfortunately to say this problem is just a military one is not totally correct. After I separated form the Air Force I thought things would be better. They were different in some ways but not better. The problem is people. It's just human nature to use people and things and then throw away everything after it is no longer of use. Sad truth but life isn't always fair. Find someone to trust, love and respect and hang on to them till the bitter end.

[@ACruz-kq9di]

Man, you just described my exact experience word for word (even the same years). If you ever run into any issues like I did during transition, go to a Vet Center. Had it not been for those guys, I'm not sure where I'd be right now. They helped me get back on track and through the network, I was able to meet a lot of vets from current and past wars who had similar experiences (from combat and transition).

[@davidphillips8674]

Is served with Aaron Torian in Helmand Province in 2014. He is one of the greatest human beings I ever had the pleasure of knowing.

[@Nsands81]

I'm humbled and honored to have been in the same service as you warriors. I was a mortar man in the corps on the last withdrawal of afghan when Obama pulled us out of Helmand in 2k14. Only got to do that one pump. 8 month long deployment. I was gracefully awarded with the CAR, BSM and a NAM. But compared to my seniors who were in afghan at the commencement of it or you guys I honestly feel it was under deserved. But I definitely relate to the " suck it up, quit being weak.bjust bury it and keep doing the mission" mentality. I wasn't married or had kids but for the years to come, after my departure with the corps it took a massive toll not only on me but many of guys I served with who took their own lives. At the end of the day we are humans and sustaining that level of mentality and tier doesn't mesh well with having a normal balanced family and home life. It just doesn't. You come off as cold, isolated, narcissistic and also as if a robot. We have to learn how to Seperste that and be proud to have done the job but move on with our own lives. Like you guys said there will be other to take our spot at work on the end. But not at home So I applaud both of you for being open and getting out before it got worse

[@leonking9953]

What I’ve noticed about Marines is a genuine nature. No pretentiousness. True warriors. Adaptable, ruthless, and humble. Really proud and lucky to have them on our side 🪖

[@bittnerbs]

Cody's explanation of Fallujah in 2004 is spot on with my experience as well. We were ill-equipped, undertrained for the battle in which we engaged, and our combat medicine needs were completely lacking. The common joke was, "hey, Doc, I just got my fucking leg blown off." and Doc's response would be "take two Motrin, drink some fucking water, and suck it the fuck up, Devil Dog." One of my best friends got severely fucked up in Fallujah in 2004. They shipped him home to heal. Once he somewhat healed up, they made him the battalion liaison for Marines that were KIA. He was sent to the funerals of all of the guys that we lost. He was alone most of the time until we got back too. After our second combat pump, he was a squad leader and lost one of his TLs. He took that really hard. Upon our return, he begged for help. He became extremely violent while drinking. He re-upped and I got out. I spent my entire time in the MC with him, from BC to SOI to the FMF...from day 1 to my EAS we were in the exact same unit. I saw him beg for continued help the last year I was in and he was repeatedly blown off and told to suck it the fuck up. One night he snapped and almost killed his wife. We all saw it coming. The MC is notorious for not taking care of their warriors, and it's a goddam shame!

[@richardgatewood7497]

Always on point. Thank you for that. You guys are awesome.

[@jeremiaht215]

As an NCO with only 10 months left on contract I can’t thank you two enough for this video. Solid principles and theories to go back and spread to my Marines. Appreciate y’all!

[@ericanewalt4009]

I just pray that you 2 heroes get FULL RETIREMENT after your years of service... You've sacrificed SO MUCH!!! You both are hard chargers!!! I appreciate you both!!!!

[@s.barrett1451]

First off, you dudes are both 110% stand up, righteous human beings. I can't thank you both enough for the material you guys put out and what it does for me on a personal level and on a daily basis... Second, you make Raiders Roast look so god damn delicious. Like it was poured from the Holy Grail after being blessed by everyone of God's angels. (I'm a daily coffee drinker). Ya'll ever wanna sit down for a cup- hollaaa.

[@michaelknight1980]

Every single marine is a BADASS. I could just imagine the special ops Marines. Thanks for everything. We civilians truly appreciate your service.

[@nicholasbrookins6906]

Well said, Deep respect for the marines. I took care of many a Marine (Devil Dogs) out of Kaneohe. Tripler, they went through some crazy shit in Fallujah, and I never forgot how it fucked with their heads and souls. I can't say enough about how badass the marines are and for all they do...a greatful nation

[@barnesrm76]

Nicholas Brookins ahhhh, good ole 'crippler' army hospital.

[@samrowland5208]

I'm super impressed at the level of insight that Cody has about himself and his experiences. There is wisdom here that will transfer across all walks of life.

[@MikeH0311]

Thats exactly why I got out the Marine Corps 6 years in the infantry and everything y’all talked about is exactly why I got out it just got old and annoying but Semper Fi brothers stay motivated

[@TheMehhhhhhhh]

its awesome hearing you too speak so openly about this

[@TheBeale44]

Thank you for yalls service. These are the real heroes

[@MaxineAGGuess]

Love you guys! Thank you for serving!

[@Steelhorsecowboy]

I resigned my commission after 13 yrs in the Field Artillery. After I finished my time as a battery commander I just couldn't look forward to my next position (S2). My kids were small and I had missed so much with them already. My wife had been carrying too much of the family burden for too long. My foot was screwed up and when I was on the firing line I was blowing my nose and black came out. It was the right time. I figured I had my adventure and I did my duty to my country and it was time to take care of my family and follow another dream that I had. I started a business and built it up to 30 employees and sold it. As soon as people find out I left at 13 years I hear; "why didn't you stay until retirement?" I was never one to hang on to security. I always needed action. After my kids were grown I joined a bike club and eventually became president of the club. I look back at my Army days and miss it some times but I pretty much avoid veteran's organizations and all the people I served with except one. I don't know why I feel that way. I also hate the "you owe me " crap a lot of vets have. They only thing we are owed is respect.

[@bimmergeezer]

I cannot begin to express the gratitude that I feel for you guys. Thanks you so much.

[@broylesfarm7360]

I retired a couple of years ago from the USAF. I know...I know... Chair Force yadda-yadda-yadda. lol Anyhow, making the decision, rationalizing retirement and hitting that retire button is the hardest decision ever, so I totally get where these guys are coming from. But that is the first of many challenges in the whole transition to civilian life. My major issue was culture shock. In the military you are part of something, a family, a fraternity, and you have your place. In the civilian sector, you don't mean shit to anybody! These civilian folks for the most part; don't have that drive and determination to get shit done, and the work effort sucks balls. I eventually had to take time off to get myself right. Back surgery (lots of years on the flight line). Had to get my mind right too! During that time off I had to explore my options, because I was at a point that I had no meaning in life (not a good place to be). Then I realized that my favorite part of military life was taking care of my people. I jumped into HR, since I have a degree in it, and look at my position as similar to being a 1st Sgt (without the piss and vinegar, lol). For those contemplating retiring and getting out, please take note that your world is about to change. Yes, even after 2+ years of being out, I reach for my cover every damn time I walk out of the house. lol With that said, videos like this and the veteran community are here to help. Best decision I ever made was joining, 2nd best was getting out at the right time. I understand you care for your people and want the best for them while in, but you also need to make sure that you are not a detriment to your unit by being in it and not being happy! With social media and communications, you can totally make a difference and be that ear for those still serving! Great video and keep up the solid work!

[@rickeybell6440]

Brian B yeah Brother I concur. I retired 3 years ago from the Marines and I waited 3 months before I started a job in the civilian sector. That was not long enough! My first year on the job was painful to say the least. The other employees were absolutely disgusting and no one seemed to care that their production level substandard. The only thing that helped me adapt to that new environment was another’s Marine that also worked with me. I also struggle with establishing a new identity for myself. I’m trying not to be so critical about though, just taking it one day at a time. Take care.

[@Hopdvil]

As an ex squid, I can tell you that the ribbing most likely comes down to jealousy. You guys do your bases right. :)

[@lwrii1912]

Agree 100%, from a proud fellow airman.

[@moonpiespotlight4759]

You can find your team in the civilian world as well. You'll find a group of folks who need you and can be there for you when you need them. It's not life or death, but the right employment is rewarding in more than just pay.

[@estebanperez4076]

Brian B aau uqmiiokia

[@bloodclaws2000]

Real amazing interview Thank you all for your service .

[@quintinfields8643]

Seeing this video come up in my notifications helped me grit my teeth and make it through work today. Semper Fi Brothers!!!!

[@NKshowclips]

Don't grit to hard bro, you will get chips and that shit is expensive on the outside... lol Thanks bro!!

[@GrumpyUncleRichy]

I stumbled across this video and I'm glad I took the time to watch it. As a Marine (2006-2014), the transition period is still rather difficult for me at times. Nick what you said resonated with me. "It's my reponsibility to have a good life." I'm finally coming to terms and turning over a new leaf and finding myself happy again with life. As you and Cody stated, we learn to suck it up and just deal with it and when that type of mentality is so forefront within your mind it's so hard to get around. Much love to you both and Semper Fidelis!!!

[@marctroup_mr.underrated1641]

Thank you both for your service!

[@pldyer69muzic]

Thank You Guys For Your Service.

[@seanmalo9825]

Great message.. Former Airborne Infantry here. I think that veterans and active duty need to realize that they shouldn’t be ashamed for asking for help. I struggled for 10 years and finally started getting involved with a few veteran groups. That’s helped me tremendously. A combat vet Counsler told me that our issues are normal for our experiences, war is abnormal.

[@dankingjr.2088]

Been 32 years since I dealt with this. You guys brought up some things I had managed to put away. Interesting convo.

[@chuckcrookshanks847]

Very insightful conversation. It is a shame that most American's are not aware of the sacrifices that those in the military make for us.

[@cannoli___]

It's stuff like this that keeps me motivated and keeps me alive and well waking up in the morning. Thanks you guys for your education and for your wisdom. I wish you both the best ❤️

[@staygold12123]

Congrats brother. I wish you the best in your next chapter in life!

[@kirkpaff2885]

Great conversation guys! It's awesome to hear how important taking care of yourself has become just as important as taking care of your Marines and gear. Keep the conversation going!!!

[@samrowland5208]

I also feel like you should make a smaller cutdown video of the segment at the end where Cody talks about Courage, Honour and Commitment. That was absolutely awesome and is an incredibly powerful message.

[@FrankJackson]

One of the best if not the best video I've ever watched on KZbin. Very motivating to show my Sailors. On point and honest. You guys are creating positive change in a cultural environment.

[@MrLawman82]

It takes more courage to leave the Marine Corps than it did to join (10 years for me). You are going to miss it. You're going to miss it every damned day. But life goes on and so we must.

[@truckertom3884]

Eric W Why leave if u gonna miss it u plonkers are dumb as fuck

[@jickiebecker2525]

Gentlemen, this was great and enlightening. It's great to see my Brothers from other services explain what their stigmas, challenges, and successes were while they were serving. I appreciate what you are doing and always look forward to new releases. Bravo!

[@reubengonzales977]

Thanks for the honesty, my son is joining and will be shipped out soon. I will do my best to show the support that he might need from me. As far as I am concerned you guys will always be heroes, thanks for the sacrifices.

[@robertbailey6909]

To all who are still serving and to all those who have. Thank you for everything you have done. Dont forget that there are people who care about you in the civilian world

[@davidr7019]

Two very smart, very cool guys. Thank you for your sacrifice.

[@dowth3]

GREAT content and way to support our troops! Thanks for this.

[@chuckculotta8362]

This conversation is so insightful. Men operating at a very high level still dealing with how to stay motivated. What an interview.

[@UrNotThatGuyPal]

That Dunder Mifflin mug tho👌🏽💯

[@kelco4260]

The office goes hard as f on ship n deployment

[@rocksteadyathletics]

Thank you....thank you.....As a 30 yrs retired Marine, I love this conversation.

[@DREECE54]

Mad respect for all of you MIlitary guys and veterans out there!Thankyou for all you do and done for our beloved Country. You are appreciated more than you know!

[@cutchdoggw1776]

Much Love and Thank You for your honesty!

[@arturoBbrito]

thanks for this video. I'm getting ready to retire and listening to this can gave me an idea of what i can focus on.

[@NKshowclips]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJXFdJWYpMisbbs Check this out also, if you have not already found it.

[@32hernandez93]

Thank you for your service and time.🇺🇸

[@jamesmterrell]

I've been out a long time and still miss the service. However, these two have the courage to tell the folks around them they need help. Good for them. BZ

[@mikem7072]

Feel you bruh. Going home after 20 next December - Navy CWO. Did my time, gonna miss it but getting out for fam and health. Been deployed most of my career; no time to get fixed until now and still won’t be 💯. It’s a lifestyle most won’t ever know but it’s amazing. Mad respect to you both! Great video.

[@TainoSurfer03]

15yrs still a lot, my father joined the Marines in 1963 and retired 2005. Thanks for your service.

[@keithhamilton6559]

Great insightful conversation. Keep it up.

[@robertromero6365]

Thank you all for your service and fighting for our freedom god bless you all brothers 👌🙏

[@aaronallen4647]

Thank you guys for being real. Semper Fi. Preemptive is the key, and the maintenance being taught to the junior marines is what the service should encourage. Bless you and all of those who answer the call.

[@taylorcole2354]

I could listen to ya'll talk forever. Just easy to follow and interesting conversation. Thanks for the video.

[@sqedmonton]

This is so good! Thank you both for sharing this to a Canadian civilian. What you say makes so much sense and I hope your listened to,

[@loupooh1]

Thank you guys for your service!

[@ryanrosser8520]

Damn, perfect timing. Literally just had an anxiety attack and was like I better not let anyone know about this. After listening to what you guys had to say think I might go talk to someone. Just never thought I'd be the guy but this video really hit home. Thanks for this

[@copdwarriormcdonald7968]

Thanks for sharing the message Nick and Cody! It’s hard trying to get your body and mind fixed after years of sucking it up! Rah

[@danielgarcia228]

This is really great stuff, forget 30 minutes, lets keep this conversation going. Keep up the good work Nick and Cody.

[@NKshowclips]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJXFdJWYpMisbbs

[@DougZaga]

Thank you for your service!

[@usmarine1]

Thank you brothers. Semper Fi. 🇺🇸

[@Solo_01]

I was never in the Recon or Raider community but as a Marine, I've witnessed and felt the same way about the Marine Corps as you both do. I did 22 and retired but it was a hard fight with myself to stay that long to the point were I was afraid to get out. I loved the Marine Corps but over the years it turned into this rewarding people for the way they look in uniform over what they knew or did in the Marine Corps. I personally put out and did so much for the Marine Corps. Volunteered for deployments when others would not go, volunteered for quotas, courses and whatever shit job nobody else could or would do for 18 years. I get injured and can't deploy one time and now I'm shit and nothing I did in the past matters to anybody. At that point I knew it was time to get out but was afraid of not having the brotherhood and structure outside of the military. Now that I've been out for nearly 6 years, it was the best thing I could have done. Don't get me wrong, I love and miss the Marine Corps but this next step in life has been great for me and my family.

[@chan_ca_]

Very insightful- thank you!

[@cormackz]

I spent no time in the service, but I have huge respect for you both and all the other men and women serving in our military. From the bottom of my heart I thank you all #DunderMifflin

[@adamthekid3249]

Im retired Navy and this video made me wake up! I appreciate you all \!

[@bretrobert4012]

You two have such level heads. Props

[@cleanpasturesllc5749]

Thank you fellas for openly talking about these reality’s in your profession. I am 17 years into all 3 fields of first responder, we a have very similar issues in our line of work for similar reasons. I know most responders look up you to fellas, so hearing you all lay it out like this is not only gonna help your Mil. Guys But also all the responders out there in the US. Thank you for being real!!!!

[@jefftownsend4483]

First off just saying Thank you to both of you Warriors just seems so inadequate for the commitment, honor and sacrifice you heroic brave Bad Asses have went through! May God bless you both every single way possible for the remainder of your lives! I have more respect for all of you than any of you could ever imagine! Semper Fi you Brave men of Honor and Valor! May God pour you out blessings you can’t even receive! 🙏🏻♥️⚡️ Jeff Townsend Powder Springs, Georgia

[@disillusioned070]

I just gotta tell you guys it was refreshing to hear you guys talk on this subject. I have just over 13 years active with the US Navy and hit the wall myself as my service related injuries began to stack up and I couldn't effectively do my job. I have been out just over ten years and still wonder if I made the right decision getting out but listening to this video really helps me feel that I did the right thing and that I am not the only one that feels this way. PS - love the dory explorer band-aid joke. As an instructor who taught small arms and other various courses I would hand out pink barbie band-aids to any one who got an injury.

[@thinbluelinemustang372]

Thank you for your service gents! Much respect for your Special Ops service. I have always envied the special ops groups. That commitment is huge and many many in this world will never understand what you sacrificed to stay at that level.

[@jayneubauer3401]

Thanks for the candor on getting help and how to make the most/best on what we did/do, one Recon Marine (80's for me) to another. It's hard on us, in every way imaginable.

[@manum1066]

Holy f! Watching this really helps me getting more confident with my very own transition I'm going through right now. Because there's an entire life to live ahead! Thx for making such visa. You guys have made a good point! I hope you're all well to this day. Greetings from Germany

[@icasual7562]

Strong topic and powerful message thank you for your sacrifice

[@tobster280]

after watching this it has givin me so many tools for my tool box. The taking care of the troops is just as important as the gear. I have shared this video and im really hoping that marines watch this to realize that their body is what needs taken care of and nobody is gunna do that as much as you.

[@WiseFocus0446]

Great podcast. I could relate 100%.

[@xjeepsg]

Thank you for sharing your candid experience thoughts.

[@jgreene504]

You gents are spot on....exactly my sentiments and what I experiences...although I was never SOF, I’m saddened to hear because you guys are tip of the spear and need to keep all the good ones

[@strongsecurity7747]

I did my 4 years and the marines made me a better man but these guys are a whole other level of marine ! Wow ! Bless these guys !

[@marceaton3128]

I have so much appreciation for you Warriors. I was forced to retire from Police work due to PTSD, I wasn't given a medical retirement I was discarded like an old car. I saw some crazy shit, but nothing like you guys saw. I had a four-year-old backed over by a truck, and it broke me, and I asked for help. The dumbest decision in my career because it cost me my career. Tired of the drugs that don't work, the sleeping meds that don't work. I hate to see the sunrise every day cause I don't enjoy life. I choose my career and would do it again, just hate that it's not just I treated like this its others who are suffering but fear to come forward for help. It's been 16 years and each day is worse than the last, not suicidal but my prayers at night are to ask God to take me in my sleep and give me peace. I am on my fourth marriage, it's tanking. Shrinks are a joke. ​ Thank you for your service.

[@allenblaylock4096]

Thank you both for your service to our Corps! Semper Fi!!! Also, would like to thank you for your insight with pain n mental health recognition!! It took me almost 15yrs after I got out (94’) to seek MH. Served with E 2/7 n B/D 3rd Recon Bn n Recon Co 4th Marines after 3rd was disbanded in 93’😢. Best of everything to you both!!! 🤙🏻🇺🇸

[@kevinglennon2770]

This was fucking awesome - thank you Nick and Cody for having the balls to have this conversation and to share it. You guys are fucking awesome and I hope you both enjoy your time post-active duty. Totally sharing this.

[@calvinalexander1540]

This is insightful as hell. I am not a military man and have no experience in that world but a lot of the points brought up are relatable in EMS as well. It is crazy.

[@fmfdocwilly2014]

Very cool conversation. I had some good Staff NCO's that let me take care of my Marines. My hope is for Marines to take care of themselves. Love Brothers and Sisters.

[@StMyles]

Thank you for your Service gentlemen, ex-Army.

[@connormagill4201]

I absolutely love this video. Thank you so much for posting. I will forever incorporate these notions into my style of leadership. I've felt this way (not being afraid to seek help and proactively uplift one's self and peers) for a while, but hearing some fucking raiders speak these truths has really helped drive shit home for me!!! Many thanks from OHIO!!!

[@reconmodelsvaughn469]

my wife and I have 15 years in the army and both have some of the same issues you guys are talking about .we both have been deployed many times and both have PTSD its hard to ask for help . We are retired now got help and loving life. Awesome show .

[@IPushHard]

One of the most interesting conversations I've ever heard. I've been out of the military for a long time now, but I remember that generally if you went down for any reason it was considered a weakness. There was a stigma effect. Nobody wants to be the weak link. Nobody wants to be looked at as a weak link. That's not just the Marines... It's any branch. Any job. I think that part of that is inherent to the military. They need to promote strength in order to make the member stronger and the force stronger. But there does come a point when it caves in on itself and becomes a liability rather than a strength. The military hasn't been able to identify that breaking point yet....probably because it hasn't occurred to them that they should look for it. Like you guys said, it's not their mission. So, why look? Great video. Thanks a lot for sharing the guts. You know what I mean.

[@AlwaysRaging21]

What a freaking video! This was perfect! Semper Fi, keep up the vids!

[@jodycox1474]

Thanks for your service

[@sinbaon2154]

This needs to be heard by every combat arms soldier/marine/airmen/seamen. The shame/guilt mentality runs deep. You guys covered some phenomenal much needed talking points. Great Job, and thanks for the genuine honesty.

[@mariodrv]

Great video guys, thanks for showing a bit of what its like to serve in the military long term.

[@larrymaldonado4674]

Semper Fi. You guys are "rad" thank you for your continued service! 👍

[@larrymaldonado4674]

I am a Marine, crazy.😁

[@chandlermorris1]

Jesus. So good to hear this. Can relate 100% to everything Cody said.

[@anthonymcreynoldsjr4766]

You two hard chargers are in my prayers! I’m medically retired from the Marine Corps for PTSD and it was so hard on me getting out!

[@randallwest1572]

These guys have got it together. Respect

[@kcass72]

I served in the 90s Army MLRS, from one vet to all vets , thanks for serving!!! Transition to civie life is hard, but we always overcome... Hooay- Ooshhaaa

[@shannonwelsh5830]

Thank you for speaking out on this issue. S/F