Military Memories of our Runner-Ups Archives

The Christy Collection

Military Stories and Articles

MAJ Terrance (TP) Pitts, U.S. Army (1998-2025)

Do You Have A Favorite Photo From Your Military Service? What Memories Does This Photo Bring Back For You?:

In a world often divided by political turmoil and cultural differences, moments of human connection transcend barriers and remind us of our shared humanity. This image captures a poignant scene as I was engaging with a group of Syrian children. What might seem like a simple interaction reveals profound lessons about freedom, servant leadership, and humility values that shape the ethos of military service and resonate deeply in contexts of conflict and need.

1SG Randy Jr. Taylor, U.S. Army (2002-2023)

VA Military Memories Competition

Do You Have A Favorite Photo From Your Military Service? What Memories Does This Photo Bring Back For You?:

My favorite photo from my military service is the picture taken in 2006 of my Battalion, 1-18 Infantry Vanguards in flight to Kuwait where we would spend a short transitional period enroute to Baghdad Iraq. For some of us in this image this is a second deployment in theater to include myself and you can see the confidence of youth in my face during this air movement. Leading up to this image was a series of movements, baggage carries, weapons draw and close postured accountability while chain smoking with my Platoon. I am seen with a snack in my mouth towards the front. I can remember the smell of the jet fuel, the sounds, feel of being on the C130 and the excitement of going back to Iraq to do my trade as an Infantryman. This whole situation just felt so simple and familiar to me.

EM3 Chandra M. Holland, U.S. Navy (1993-1996)

VA Military Memories Competition

What Habit(s), Good Or Not So Good, Did You Pick Up During Your Military Service That You Still Practise To This Day?:

Military service can leave an indelible mark on a person s habits and routines. From the first day of training, certain behaviors become ingrained, shaping not only how we approach tasks but also our mindset and work ethic. Many of these habits carry over into civilian life, and for me, they have been instrumental in running my veteran-owned business and have enriched my personal life as well.

CSM Michael H. Sweeney, U.S. Army (1969-1999)

VA Military Memories Competition

What Habit(s), Good or Not So Good, Did You Pick Up During Your Military Service That You Still Practise to This Day?:

Well, the Britannica Dictionary defines habit as: a usual way of behaving: something that a person often does in a regular and repeated way. With that in mind, the first thing that comes to mind, really the only thing, is waking up very early every morning. Sort of a given, isn t it? You know, We do more before 0900 than the rest of the world does all day , right? Well, this morning, like every morning, I woke up before 0500, and I have been retired from the uniform for 26 years and completely retired for over two years. That defines a habit that I have had now for over 55 years.

SSG Victoria Ryan, U.S. Army (1973-1988)

VA Military Memories Competition

What was your primary Occupational Specialty in the Military? What was the most significant skill you learned and was this useful in your civilian life?

When I enlisted in the Army in 1973, I was almost two months past my 23rd birthday, about five years older than the majority of enlistees. I already had five years of work experience in general administration and communications with New York Telephone Company.

Because of my strong typing skills and speed, I was assigned the primary MOS of 71B (clerk typist). As time went on and I achieved a higher rank, the MOS was automatically upgraded to 71L (administrative specialist).

While on active duty, I held various positions: Company clerk, librarian assistant, intelligence administrative specialist, and casualty operations NCO, just to name a few.

During my first reenlistment, I applied for and was awarded a secondary MOS of 81E (illustrator). This was primarily based on college art courses and my interest in pursuing an art-related field in the future. No military training in this MOS was offered or provided to me, and I never had the opportunity to utilize it while on active duty.

However, after my formal retirement, I utilized military opportunities for my art education, expounding on my secondary MOS. I have been able to create painted landscapes, which I have successfully marketed and generated revenue from.

SFC Michael Taylor, U.S. Army (1977-2008)

VA Military Memories Competition

What was your primary Occupational Specialty in the Military? What was the most significant skill you learned and was this useful in your civilian life?

From the Battlefield to Brotherhood: A 30-Year Journey of Duty, Leadership, and Lifelong Bonds

Hey there! My Army career span was November 1977 through August 2008 resulting in full retirement. So, let me tell you about my time in the military. I started off as a 75 series, which eventually led me to become a Tanker (19K) and then transition to Human Resources (42A). It was quite a journey, I must say!

One of the most rewarding aspects of my military experience was the opportunity to provide support to my fellow soldiers. Whether it was on the battlefield or in the administrative realm, I always found fulfillment in being there for my comrades. There’s something incredibly special about being able to lend a helping hand and make a positive difference in someone’s life.

And boy, did I get to see some incredible places! Traveling was a big part of my military life, including going overseas. I got to immerse myself in different cultures and environments, which really broadened my perspective. Those memories and experiences have had a lasting impact on me, shaping who I am today.