Thread: A statement worth reading, a 1 RAR soldiers modern perspective.

Subject: FW: A 1 RAR soldiers modern perspective


Sent from VVAA QLD Branch inc, State Secretary.




After hearing of another young man take his life yesterday, for some unknown reason, and having a very meaningful conversation with a long time mate, I have to tell you all this. I want you all to listen. Please just listen.



For those of you who leave the military, particularly after many years’ service, who struggle to find your place, to feel complete, and for those of you who are worried about leaving, because it’s ‘who you are’, I give you this thought.



The military is, by its very nature, designed to replace you in a heartbeat. You will leave today, and tomorrow, it will be like you were never there. You will be replaced. They will get the job done without you. That’s the nature of the job. While you no doubt make a difference, and your service is vitally important to this nation, you will soon be forgotten and no longer needed. You can and will be replaced.



But do you know who cannot replace you? Your family. Your wife. Your sons and daughters. Your brothers and sisters. Your mother and father. Your FAMILY. To them, you cannot be replaced. There is no substitute for you as a father, a mother, a brother or sister. A daughter or son.



If you are struggling after leaving the military, or struggling with the decision to leave, think about what really matters. Your family, and how much you mean to them. And how much they mean to you.



And for those who think or feel they lose their identity when they leave the military, I can tell you now you’re wrong. You will always be a soldier, a sailor or an airman/woman. No one can take that away from you. But that’s not who you really are. Who you are is an essential part of a family; that is loved, and cherished, and cannot be replaced, by anyone, EVER. That is far more important than your military service.



So if you’re struggling and need help, please reach out. Please talk to someone. Talk to your family and tell them how you feel. Please ask for help. I don't want to see another family lose someone they cannot replace.



Please feel free to share far and wide.



Spike

I know I posted this elsewhere, but if it helps one person, that's good enough for me. It fits in well with the 1 RAR soldiers message.


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