Kevin's Watch

Thanks for the interesting answer, Vraith.

You're talking about the adjustment back into being a civilian after the resocliasation process being difficult. I get it- the point of a story to you is a hat, but those not socialised in that way want to know about the people.

Have you ever seen this 80s documentary called Anybody's son will do? I first heard it sampled in an old Ministry song (who, if I remember correctly, you like). I guess not a lot has changed since the making except the training officers probably being less candid with interviews. If you (or anyone else) haven't seen it, it is an interesting video.

I asked my husband his experiences after reading about yours. He was in the military for a few years, did officer training, became an officer and so, but he never left the country on duty. Some of his friends were sent to bosnia, I think it was, and one of them came back totally destroyed emotionally (he had some seriously bad experiences there). Anyway, he could not remember having a difficult time reintegrating to civilian life, but said that he thought maybe somethings were different to the american way plus he went home on his breaks. Also, all swedish boys were in the military then as service was mandatory, though my husband did extra service doing officer training and becoming an officer type.

I avoided being conscripted into the military of an oppressive regime by one year. My view of the military is rather jaundiced.

--A

Ananda wrote: maybe somethings were different to the american way plus he went home on his breaks. Also, all swedish boys were in the military then as service was mandatory, though my husband did extra service doing officer training and becoming an officer type.

Some things...a lot of things...are different. Because of my job, during a very large NATO exercise, I met folk from all over Europe. Including a couple Swedes...even though they weren't part of NATO then. They were at our HQ as 'observers.' Still aren't, are you? I mean, partially are, the "lite" version, that "Partnership" thing, right?
Anyway, most of Europe runs things a bit differently. I mean, even the guys in some could have long hair, beards...someone, maybe the Belgians??...been a long time...you could wear earring in uniform even if male. [though I think it had to be small, and either gold or silver and other strict regs.] And it fits [or did back then, anyway] into the culture differently...many had some form of compulsory service [for the Germans, I think it was 15 or 18 months...and I think they had some options besides just military].
And it also, definitely depends on what field you are in...and what situations you are exposed to.
And, like I said previously...so much just isn't clearly understood or predictable. These kinds of things make a fair number of people into better people. Even constant threat and combat transforms some people into decidedly better human beings.
Even me...despite a dim/dark period...there are things that are good that came out of it. Quite a number of things. Things that I'd never have experienced that are exceedingly important/valuable to me.

Another difference is the mixing of genders, at least in swden. My husband said they dressed, showered and trained with the female soldiers. He said all showering together was awkward at first, but quickly became normal.

And, right, we are not part of nato. I looked it up and we have the same designation as russia- partners for peace. Would be funny if my husband was one of the swedes you met.

If you look at that documentary I linked, you will see the trainer officers talking about some of the things you are talking about. Minutes 37 and 44ish, I think.

Ananda wrote:
If you look at that documentary I linked, you will see the trainer officers talking about some of the things you are talking about. Minutes 37 and 44ish, I think.

Oh...I meant to mention that. I do like Ministry, your memory is good.
I think I had heard of the documentary...it seems familiar...but could be memory tricks...
Anyway, I'm gonna watch it.
youtube is starting to be a useful place for me...I wish I hadn't spent so long thinking it was just terrible singers, cartoon memes, and cat videos.