Hey, Was It Really Harder Back Then When You Joined The Military?

The simple answer is, yes. But let me explain. After spending 31 years in the Army, I can say without a doubt that things have gotten much easier over the years. Though some older soldiers may find this hard to discuss, I see it differently. Soldiers are ultimately a reflection of civilian life. As civilian life improves, so does the U.S. military—though it often advances more slowly.

Back when I started, barracks had no air conditioning, and the equipment was of lower quality. As technology has advanced, so has the military’s resources and comfort levels. Soldiers today benefit from innovations that weren’t even on the horizon when I first enlisted. The improvements in living conditions alone are dramatic, and today’s soldiers experience a far more comfortable environment.

The food situation has also improved greatly. We used to be served in a “mess hall,” and it certainly lived up to the name. The meals were often slapped on a tray with little choice, and flies were a constant nuisance. Today, soldiers have a wider range of food options and can even choose specific meals, which is a big leap forward in terms of quality and variety.

Finally, there’s the gear and pay. Cold-weather clothing, for instance, used to be fairly basic; now it’s on par with high-end ski gear, featuring moisture-wicking shirts and shorts that didn’t exist back then. Pay has also improved significantly, especially post-9/11, when the wars increased military funding. So yes, it was harder back then, but the military has come a long way in improving the quality of life for those who serve.

Jason Pike

Veteran, Bestselling Author & Inspiring Speaker

jasonpike.org