MILITARY SKILLS I LEARNED FOR LIFE | 6 MILITARY LIFE SKILLS

[@richardpurvis8999]

Why not interview your father? This would be a compelling must see for your many followers. You are appreciated.

[@joepickard5486]

Yes , I agree. That would be a very interesting watch.

[@kaykunz4730]

I would like to see that. A highlight for sure.

[@genemcphee8053]

I am a Retired US Army Veteran. I attained a high NCO rank. I cannot agree with you more on the points that you have just made. Salute from Texas.

[@jrandom2995]

My drill instructor said it best “If I do my job correctly, you’ll be forever changed. You’ll always be better”.

[@GreyhawkGrognard]

I served in the USAF in the 1990's and I couldn't agree more. Even as a lowly Senior Airman (equal to a corporal in the RAF), I think the thing that it most did for me was to instill a sense of pride and love of country. Like you, I never served in combat, but I could have, and I was willing to. Even a potential sacrifice does something to you.

[@snowdrop629]

@@GreyhawkGrognard Hi brother, dont undersell yourself , Senior Airman means something. You’ve served. Mind you, nothing equals a Corporal in the RAF! 😀

[@johnbunton9177]

My father, a Canadian Second World War veteran, never left the house without wearing a suit and tie, with lace up oxfords, and a trilby. -The idea of dressing well as a mark of respect for self and for others never deserted him, even in his old age. I once remember a friend of mine asked my father about bayonet drill, and my father got up from the table, pulled his Lee Enfield out of the closet, and proceeded to show my friend how it was done. -The years just seemed to melt away when he went through the drill with his rifle, and I could see how physically strong he still was, even in his late seventies. He always said that fighting the Waffen SS in Normandy was the best thing that ever happened to him. -He felt that if he could survive that, he could survive anything, and that nothing in civilian life was worth worrying about for even five minutes.

[@TheChapsGuide]

The greatest of generations by far. Thank goodness they were there when needed, and their actions saved the world for all of us, that came later (despite how more recent generations seem to have forgotten the unimaginable sacrifices made for them, just a few generations ago).

[@hoozat007]

Thanks Ash. Another inspiring video. I was in the Canadian Army for 8 years in the 1980s, also during the Cold War like you (also like you I was stationed in West Germany for 4 of those years). Prior to that I was in the Air Cadets for 5 years from the age of 13. So my entire youth was spent in military training and learning. I think it was a fabulous experience and has stood me well throughout my life since. There were a number of reasons why I chose to leave the Army when I did, but I do often regret it slightly. I don’t think I would have been a lifer, but I think a few more years would have been beneficial.

[@lynn5447]

I do agree. I was in the US Army for four years, 1966-1970. My time included a one year tour in Vietnam. I was enlisted for two years and in that time reached the rank of Specialist 5, the same level as Sergeant. I was then a junior officer for two years, leaving the service as a First Lieutenant. Not only do we polish our shoes and iron our clothes, but we can handle stress better than most and have a plethora of skills, many technical, but also as you say, in leadership and teamwork. Not every leader in the military is as bright as could be hoped. Some are just plain stupid. But some are exceedingly brilliant. The sad exception is those with PTSD who cannot function. PTSD also affects police and fire fighters who have faced horrendous situations. But we have a duty to ensure their care. As I was in the US military, my oath was to defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign or domestic. Note the inclusion of domestic enemies. And like your oath, it does not come with an expiration date. Interestingly, all civilian employees of the US Government take the same oath. Perhaps I should add that my major motivation for leaving the service was the Vietnam War. I had no desire to have a second tour in Vietnam, which was a guarantee if I had stayed in. Great video. Superb.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Thanks Lynn

[@deedahinkent]

Thank you for those words of wisdom Ash 👍

[@ColinRussell-o4l]

Great video, Ash - thanks! You can certainly tell who are the ex-servicemen at my place of work...... (...me, and no-one else!)

[@QV1010]

Your points are valid, I’m part of the national guard. So I am part time civilian & weekend warrior. So I have to balance civilian & duty. It can be tough on both aspects when they can clash with each other. Like a student having balance a college with a long drill period or worst deployment. I’m not a veteran yet still have 3 more years left & hopefully to go on a deployment to be more secure in my veteran status in my state. I will say that your fellow men can make or break your experience. You can learn from a good NCO,CO,even lower enlisted about stuff that can help you in uniform or out. Same can be said about a poor leader which can sour your time.

[@raylukic5716]

All good points made by Ash. It took me about 5 years after my military service to get used to working with civilians and their time management/motivation/ethics…another hard transition in addition to losing the sense of brotherhood

[@flasherol3764]

Really, Really good video. Great Life advice . Highly enjoyed it.

[@mahmoodsabbir]

I served in Bangladesh Army Medical Corps for more than 32 years. I also served twice in UNMIL (United Nations Mission in Liberia). I gathered significant experiences by serving Bangladesh Infantry battalion in the hill tracts. I left BD Army 5 years ago, but still, I love my combat uniform and cherish my golden days in the military.

[@mahmoodsabbir]

Thank you, Mr Ash. I am an avid listener and follower of your KZbin channel.

[@martindurkin8837]

Good stuff as always Ash. Many thanks.

[@AJKam1kaz3]

Watching this video reminds me of something similar with the channel Real Men Real Style. Maybe a sort of collaboration between two military veterans who also talk about how to dress for success in the future?

[@kaykunz4730]

Great skills Ash. I learned discipline and stamina in the military. I also volunteered for becoming a medic and had advanced medical training. I was thankful for it in my civilian life.

[@Brendan3627]

Great information thank you Ash!

[@jt.8144]

SELF DISCIPLINE. I had a Former USAF officer as a teacher in elementary school. I remember seeing the pre cut letters on the wall that said ' SELF DISCIPLINE'. that carries on to Today. 35 years later.

[@danielmanor605]

Great video Ash. As you probably know, I am from a country in which military service is mandatory. I served 3 years and reflecting back, I do believe it contributed to building independence and maturity in life. However, I think that only people who enlist to a military career (doing way more than 3 years), gain the full extent of the attributes mentioned in the video.

[@chadlaughlin-vr7yf]

Another excellent video. I just wanted to leave a comment about a past video you created about supporting industries which offer quality, style and are perhaps in danger economically. To this end, I found myself needing to upgrade my footwear. The appreciation I gained from your videos of the specialization in the North Hamptonshire region of your country inspired me to focus on those manufacturers for said upgrade. I have purchased, and am enjoying, a black cap-toed oxford from Cheaney (on sale). A pair of really great driving shoes also from Cheaney (not on sale). And also some suede loafers from Crockett and Jones (very much not on sale). I'm still looking for a pair of dark brown "dress loafers" amongst those wonderful and historic shoe maker's of that region. I do enjoy targeting my purchases to maintain a way of life in a region of craftspersons so as to keep those histories alive. Hence why I bought a few very dapper suits from houses in Naples Italy. Splendid quality, splendid looking. So, long point short, your videos do make a difference in some of us out there in how we spend our hard earned dollars. Carry on, big fan of your channel.

[@TheChapsGuide]

I hope those shoes treat you well sir. Perhaps a pair of Trickers may be a viable option as a brogue.

[@chadlaughlin-vr7yf]

​@@TheChapsGuide Very intuitive, Trickers is the house I've been exploring.

[@brianmccarthy1322]

My military service was limited to the Canadian reserves in the late 70's. The lessons learned and confidence gained have served me well. I believe that with the right attitude much can be learned from service. In later life as an engineer I was tasked with reviewing maintenance in several armories. Upon entering and moving through these buildings and showing respect to their historic battle displays the soldiers would quickly discern that I was a brother in arms. It was a good feeling indeed. Keep well Ash.

[@ronaldpoppe3774]

Very true Ash. A lot of people these days need self discipline. And being prepared for anything. US Coast Guard moto Semper Paratus (always ready). And staying calm under pressure. Cheers Ron

[@danielgutierrez-jw6tx]

Hey there dear Ol chap! Heading to your neck of the woods in the next couple of weeks. Cant wait. Cheers my friend!

[@TheChapsGuide]

Have a great time sir!!

[@JimboMorrison-t2v]

No saluting without headdress you know the rules Ash😂

[@w.adammandelbaum1805]

Like you I enlisted in the Air Force (USAF) at 17, serving as a military linguist during the Cold War 70-74. Picked up some great habits which served my civilian legal career, and some bad habits which served me personally.👹 Liked the bad habits best of all.

[@advelec]

You should do one with your son explaining how the lessons of Baden Powell’s Scouting movement are used in day to day life.

[@MarkmanOTW]

Well advocated, Ash - what military trained individuals can bring to the workplace (outside of the military). I've often seen some good ex-military people left 'out-in-the-cold' or on the verges. I've also witnessed some who perceive ex-military as being 'out-of-step' with the commercial, civilian, 'real world' especially in those sectors that are immersed in the trends and quirks of social/cultural responsive industries. Also that they have an 'institutionalised, 'command and control' mindset, which isn't in step with current management thinking and the modus operandi of some sectors and professional disciplines. I think you make the case very well for your military and ex-military colleagues.

[@stephenmundane]

Ex-Plumber here -- did my time in the 1980s and the most important things I learned were never to volunteer for anything and how to iron a shirt (thanks Cpl Boyd). Thankfully the Cold War never went hot as the hardened (haha) aircraft shelters I spent some time in weren't R-36 "Satan" proof. Saying that, it beat signing on the dole with my dad in the de-industrialized north. Good times.

[@Rick-fz7tt]

I also believe the people of the civilian world don’t understand veterans. When we are told to do something we follow through until it’s done. I was in law enforcement after being in the military most of my fellow officers that where veterans all got along great compared to those who never served. All of use had far more training in the armed forces than any civilian had. I must say we relied on each other no matter what branch you served in. You’re right we are all a close family because we served our country.👮🏻‍♂️🇺🇸🪖

[@MisterBurtonshaw]

Ex Mob is the LAST person who should be policing society. Unless you prefer drones to humans. The land of the free, my Welsh arse.

[@mpithmore4643]

I was 20 years USAF. Absolutely loved my career as Security Police and later trained into missile maintenance. To this day when my wife wants my attention she yells out “Sarge!” 😂

[@snowdrop629]

As a former RAF dog handler, to this day ( 40 years on) its impossible for me to put my hands in my pockets whilst walking my dog… I still think my old Flight Sergeant is hiding behind a tree somewhere Also, is it just me that gets all annoyed when you are at a serve yourself buffet and a ‘civvy’ goes along it then comes back the other way for more potatoes or something. So wrong….

[@alalder1533]

I found it interesting that most of the comments here are from ex-servicemen outside of the UK. I agree with everything you say but veterans are not treated well in this country and many benefits of service life are lost. We’re still Kiplingesque:- ‘it’s Tommy this an Tommy an Chuck him out the brute but its saviour of his country when the guns begin to shoot’.

[@dojocho1894]

Father was US Navy Intelligence WW2 .....Myself, former Army Ranger...the downside of military service is the lack of preparation and laziness of people. When I date girls they come to my house and believe a women lives there for everything is clean, neat, my vehicles are washed my clothes are hung in order...It just goes smooth..... most civilians are not like that today...and its hard to be around them personally for myself......

[@e-remes7029]

Good evening Ash, Chaps I have commented on previous videos with my military experience. I think any response to this may be posted to a more secure platform. Top points all though. *Salute

[@umiami91]

One additional point on your father wearing a tie to the grocery, which I think is completely fantastic, and thanks for his service to his nation… Watch any of the war films that are relatively accurate to the era and you’ll see that we fought the Second World War with soldiers who wore ties in the field (United States military here, I’m less familiar with the uniforms of allied militaries). Today, we seldom wear anything but a loose fitting, wrinkled mess in OCPs or service equivalent. The Air Force I grew up in required blues and ties from Labor Day to Memorial Day (USA) and we wore camos on Fridays. Now when I see photos of senior officers on official visits with foreign military or governmental officials, they seldom wear even the most basic formal uniform, opting to show up in utilities. It’s so wrong. During the 9-11 wars, the answer was always “we are a military at war”, but that’s no longer the case, but there seems to be no appetite for going back to basics and dressing for our typical workspaces, which are often office work. (If you’re a maintainer or actually doing work that requires a specialty uniform, I’m not talking about you - I’m talking about everyone from the gate guards to the medics to the office-types)

[@petsco]

nice jacket Ash - where's it from?

[@TheChapsGuide]

A company called &Sons (and sons). It’s their Carver chore jacket. It’s an awesome bit of kit!

[@petsco]

@@TheChapsGuide I know them. I'll check it out. Thanks

[@umiami91]

Well spoken. I would not be what I am without my service..

[@athanasiospapasotiriou6602]

I served for 14 months in the Greek Army (infantry,medical corps as a university graduate in pharmacy) and military service in Greece is compulsory for all fit males over the age 18.And what I learnt during my military service is NOTHING.all waste of time and money (you pay for your own expences since your monthly allowance from the government is only € 8,65 or roughly 10USD)gained 10 kilos.My father used to say that when I will join the army I will learn ''to get my act together'' ,well, it never happened.I DIDN'T gain any practical skills,or any other usefull skill or knowledge for later in life or any skills as described in the video above.Maybe how to wash your dirty and smelly military uniform in a shower using shampoo as a detergent or maybe mopping the floors or cleaning the toilets but I knew that all ready by living alone 800 km away from home as a college student.

[@Santoshlv426]

Ash, what is your take on the current high levels of discrimination that permeates the defense industry (in general). It's becoming more prevalent and excludes many from deriving similar pride from what must be a "calling". For the record, I've never served, nor will I serve in the armed forces and respect those that do.

[@TheChapsGuide]

What sort of discrimination do you mean? Against military personal, or discrimination perpetuated by them?

[@umiami91]

I work pretty closely with the defense industry and don’t see any evidence of discrimination outside of self-selection bias (in that STEM fields are often more male and white from college forward) which forms the available hiring pool. They make a concerted effort to recruit and retain from traditionally under-represented groups. Bottom line is that if you are trying to bring in more people from a smaller pool when there are “more attractive” opportunities available that don’t require a security clearance and/or willingness to create products that, to be blunt, kill people, it’s not discrimination. (See the petitions to get Google to stop supporting defense industries). It’s a challenge and until the primary schools prepare underserved students, they will be under-represented in college STEM programs and thus STEM fields.

[@umiami91]

(And, yes, you didn’t ask me, but that’s my take)

[@grazzi67]

Excellent video, as always. I did military service in mid 80s. Mandatory. Eastern bloc country. I didn't like it much. The only thing I still remember very well is how to safe handle a machine gun and a hand gun. I can still disassemble and assemble an Ak47 with no problem. For sure not that fast like in the old days. And some good defending skills. Ironing , cleaning my shoes, boots , keeping my clothes neat , looking clean all the time ,was because of my grandfather . A true gentleman who disliked communists and fascist alike.

[@syedvaz6109]

You’ve just listed things which the average joe knows. You’ve not mentioned “how” on these lists

[@ditpook]

I learned team work in the Coast Guard, then went into civilian work and saw that there is no such thing. People say they will work as a team but use the team to advance themselves. Its like a steel cage deathmatch as no one ever gives a little to advance an entire team. Its all about themselves. Damn I miss the Coast Guard.