Since 22 February 1932, over 1.8 million service members have received the Purple Heart, including some Team RWB Eagles. As part of our August Monthly Mission, the Purple Heart Workout, we honor them all by breaking a little sweat and sharing their stories. Stories like that of retired Sergeant First Class (SFC) John Reyes. John is a Purple Heart Recipient who deployed multiple times to both Iraq and Afghanistan. He has served Team RWB in various capacities for a decade and co-authored the memoir “Angels in Sadr City.” This is his story. https://bit.ly/3LuuNC9
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Wars fought on a grand scale with global consequences are made up of countless smaller battles and events. For the men who fought, bled, and died in them they are not small--those little pieces of war--and the personal aftermath and their effect is beyond measure. One such battle pitted a North Vietnamese Army (NVA) battalion of 700+ men against the men of Company I, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division. Of the seven officers in the field at the beginning, only three walked out. I was one of them. I was 24 years old, and this was my first significant combat experience and surprisingly, what happened--what I was called upon to do--was something I never imagined. What came afterward defined me for the rest of my life. The fighting lasted six hours, and toward the end, we were almost out of ammunition. Those few hours changed forever the lives of the survivors, including me, and the next of kin of the men we lost. That battle was the crucial event in my life; an ultimate What Now, Lieutenant? moment that taught me so much that came into play in other such moments in my future. True, they would not be as traumatic as what I experienced as a lieutenant, but they were moments that whether I was a lieutenant, major or general, each forced me to call upon my experience, knowledge, training, and common sense to respond appropriately. That phrase... that question with all it entails and how one responds when it's asked of them... seemed to fit best as a title for what you're reading now. Seeing that question in the eyes of the men on Hill 70 that day is how I learned a most valuable lesson about leadership over the course of a bloody day in Vietnam. Everything that happened to me after that day is now seen through that prism. --Butch Neal #usmarines #military #defenseindustry #memoir https://lnkd.in/g495pXkm
What Now, Lieutenant?: Leadership Forged from Events in Vietnam, Desert Storm and Beyond
amazon.com
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Helicopter Pilot & Aviation Safety SME/Speaker/Educator | Helo Girls™ Children's Books Author | Combat Veteran | Aviation Doctoral Candidate
I have been going through my military records today, and it got me thinking: What is your shoulder sleeve insignia for former wartime service and what does it mean to you? In case you do not know, the shoulder sleeve insignia for former wartime service, commonly known as the "combat patch," is a distinctive patch worn on the right sleeve of the uniform by US Army soldiers who have served in combat. It signifies the individual's participation in a designated wartime period or campaign. The importance of the combat patch lies in several aspects: Recognition of Service, Unit Cohesion, Tradition and Honor, and Combat Identification. A combat patch connects soldiers to the long history of the military and the sacrifices made by those who have served before them. It represents a sense of duty, valor, and pride in one's service. Overall, the combat patch holds significant symbolic and practical importance within the military community, representing both individual service and collective sacrifice in defense of the nation. My patch, you ask, is the Special Forces Patch awarded on 18 July 2007. #avgeek #military #aviationlovers #aviationdaily #aviationsafety #specialforces #helogirls #mentorshipmatters #militaryservice #veteran #combat
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Former White House Medical Officer | Clinician | Strategic Medical Planner | Physician Associate Leader | Adjunct Professor | TS-SCI
June 6, 1944, stands as a pivotal day in world history. Known as D-Day, this date marks the Allied invasion of Normandy, a massive military operation that turned the tide of World War II. The success of D-Day was crucial in the effort to liberate Nazi-occupied Europe, leading to the eventual downfall of Hitler’s regime. While much has been written about the strategic and tactical aspects of this historic event, it is also important to highlight the critical role played by combat medics in supporting the warfighter during this monumental operation. Among these brave individuals were Edwin Pepping and Army Staff Sgt. Albert Mampre, affectionately known as "band-aid bandits" to their comrades. Pepping and Mampre were attached to Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division—the unit later known as the "Band of Brothers." "Boy Scouts was the closest thing to medical training I had before that," said Edwin Pepping, who was a 21-year-old Army private first class at the time. "But you didn't have a chance to be nervous." Faced with numerous catastrophic wounds, Pepping and his fellow medics did whatever they could, often improvising with scarce supplies after losing most of theirs in the jump. They treated anyone they found—American, French, and German alike—saving more than 80 lives that day. As we remember D-Day, let’s honor the medics whose courage and dedication under fire exemplify the highest ideals of military service and humanitarian care. Their selfless actions ensured that countless soldiers received the care they needed, often making the difference between life and death. Combat Medic rules: 1. Good men will die. 2. Doc can't save everyone. 3. Doc will go through hell to break rules 1 & 2. #combatmedic #DDay #WorldWarII #Medics #Heroes #MilitaryHistory #BandOfBrothers #TraumaCare #MedicalTraining #CombatMedicine #TacticalMedicine #MilitaryMedicine https://lnkd.in/gJTZmyTq
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3 Rules…
Former White House Medical Officer | Clinician | Strategic Medical Planner | Physician Associate Leader | Adjunct Professor | TS-SCI
June 6, 1944, stands as a pivotal day in world history. Known as D-Day, this date marks the Allied invasion of Normandy, a massive military operation that turned the tide of World War II. The success of D-Day was crucial in the effort to liberate Nazi-occupied Europe, leading to the eventual downfall of Hitler’s regime. While much has been written about the strategic and tactical aspects of this historic event, it is also important to highlight the critical role played by combat medics in supporting the warfighter during this monumental operation. Among these brave individuals were Edwin Pepping and Army Staff Sgt. Albert Mampre, affectionately known as "band-aid bandits" to their comrades. Pepping and Mampre were attached to Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division—the unit later known as the "Band of Brothers." "Boy Scouts was the closest thing to medical training I had before that," said Edwin Pepping, who was a 21-year-old Army private first class at the time. "But you didn't have a chance to be nervous." Faced with numerous catastrophic wounds, Pepping and his fellow medics did whatever they could, often improvising with scarce supplies after losing most of theirs in the jump. They treated anyone they found—American, French, and German alike—saving more than 80 lives that day. As we remember D-Day, let’s honor the medics whose courage and dedication under fire exemplify the highest ideals of military service and humanitarian care. Their selfless actions ensured that countless soldiers received the care they needed, often making the difference between life and death. Combat Medic rules: 1. Good men will die. 2. Doc can't save everyone. 3. Doc will go through hell to break rules 1 & 2. #combatmedic #DDay #WorldWarII #Medics #Heroes #MilitaryHistory #BandOfBrothers #TraumaCare #MedicalTraining #CombatMedicine #TacticalMedicine #MilitaryMedicine https://lnkd.in/gJTZmyTq
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Project Specialist | V.P. Mental Wellness Supplement Company | U.S. Navy Veteran | Professional Problem Solver
Kickstart Your Week with Positivity! Happy Monday, everyone! Each new week brings a fresh opportunity to set the tone for success and productivity. Starting strong can make all the difference. Here are a few tips to help you get off to a great start: Set Clear Goals: Outline what you want to achieve this week. Having a clear roadmap keeps you focused and motivated. Prioritize Tasks: Identify the most important tasks and tackle them first. This way, you can handle critical items when your energy is at its peak. Stay Positive: Approach each day with a positive mindset. Challenges are inevitable, but your attitude can transform obstacles into opportunities. Take Breaks: Remember to take short breaks to recharge. A quick walk or a few minutes of mindfulness can boost your productivity and creativity. Connect with Others: Reach out to colleagues, mentors, or friends for support and inspiration. Collaboration often leads to fresh ideas and new perspectives. Let's embrace this week with enthusiasm and determination. Every small step forward is progress. Together, we can achieve great things! #MotivationalMonday #StartStrong #WeeklyGoals #Productivity #PositiveMindset #Teamwork #Success
Motivational Monday with Military & Patriots Group "An inch of movement is better than a mile of good intention." Every step forward, no matter how small, brings us closer to our goals. At Military & Patriots Group, we believe in the power of action and perseverance. Whether you're embarking on a new mission, advancing your career, or overcoming a challenge, remember that progress is made one step at a time. Let's start this week with determination and drive, making every inch count towards our success. #MotivationalMonday #MilitaryAndPatriotsGroup #TakeAction #Progress #Perseverance #KeepMovingForward
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Healing the Warrior Mindset through the power of Love. Create better communication with those around you. Find balance in life.
Something to think about
We are so honored to feature Purple Heart Recipient and Army Veteran Jennifer H. in our 2025 calendar as Miss December! Be sure to get your calendar at pinupsforvets.com Jennifer is featured along with 12 other incredible female Veterans! More about Jennifer: Army 3.5 years. Tracked Vehicle Mechanic at Fort Irwin, CA. Deployment to Mosul, Iraq, as a Civil Affairs Specialist with the HHT 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in 2005. Conducted operations with the Personal Security Detachment Team to coordinate relief efforts in the region. Seriously wounded in a hostile mortar attack and became the first female in the history of the HHT 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment to receive the Purple Heart. Video by Lens of Lara, LLC / Zak Lara
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Clear message, and a real priority.
Creator/Host "What's Your Twenty?" Podcast, Public Speaker/Writer, Mental Health Advocate, Certified Trauma & Resiliency Coach, First Responder
22 years ago... - Sergeant Marc Daniel Léger, 29 Lancaster, Ontario - Corporal Ainsworth Dyer, 24 Montreal, Quebec - Private Richard Green, 21 Mill Cove, Nova Scotia - Private Nathan Lloyd Smith, 27, Porters Lake, Nova Scotia Tarnak Farm - known as the friendly fire incident - is the killing, by an American Air National Guard pilot, of four Canadian soldiers and the injury of eight others from the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group (3PPCLIBG) on the night of April 17, 2002, near Kandahar, Afghanistan. Two American F-16 pilots mistakenly engaged when they dropped a 500 pound bomb on them. Alpha Company, of the Third Battalion PPCLI were conducting live fire training at the time I knew Sgt Léger and his wife, Marley, personally. I was proud to stand during his service in Lancaster, Ontario.This incident will always remain a foundational event in my life. Never forgotten. Never forget PPCLI Association Canadian Armed Forces | Forces armées canadiennes Canadian Army | Armée canadienne #ppcli #neverforgotten #neverforget #caf #armedforces #canadianarmedforces #friendlyfire #tarnakfarmincident #tarnakfarm #canadian #canadaremembers #soldiers #soldier #military #infantry #battalion #veteran #veterans #whatsyourtwenty #kandahar #afghanistan #kingmarco #training #patricias #otd #service #honour #wy20
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Discover the biggest lesson learned from being in the army - "Don't give a fuck." Explore the contrast between the army's motto and the reality of military life in this candid conversation. #ArmyLife #MilitaryLessons #LessonsLearned #MotivationalTalk #ArmyExperience #MilitaryMindset #LifeLessons #OvercomingChallenges #ArmyMotto #PerspectiveShift
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Understanding D-Day and Honoring Our Armed Forces: Ever wondered what the “D” in D-Day stands for? It’s a common question, and the answer is simpler than you might think: “D” stands for “Day.” It was a military code for the day an important operation began. For many of us, June 6, 1944, or D-Day, symbolizes a monumental moment when Allied forces, including a significant number of British troops, stormed the beaches of Normandy. This wasn’t just any day—it was a turning point in World War II, a day that changed the course of history and secured the freedoms we enjoy today. Remembering D-Day is about more than just reflecting on the past. It’s about honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who laid down their lives for the greater good. These were ordinary men and women who performed extraordinary feats under unimaginable conditions. They faced relentless challenges, but their determination and bravery paved the way for victory against tyranny. As we look back, it’s essential to not only remember those who served during that critical time but also to appreciate the members of our armed forces who continue to protect our nation today. Their commitment and dedication ensure that the legacy of courage and service lives on. These individuals are out there every day, making sure that our country remains safe and that our values are upheld. Let’s take a moment to honor both the heroes of the past and those who continue to serve. Our gratitude for their service and sacrifices cannot be overstated. They stand as a testament to the resilience and strength that define our armed forces. Here’s to the past, present, and future defenders of our freedom. Your efforts and sacrifices are truly appreciated.❤️ #DDay #Remembrance #ArmedForces #Respect #Service #Gratitude #Veterans #Military #BritishForces
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Creator/Host "What's Your Twenty?" Podcast, Public Speaker/Writer, Mental Health Advocate, Certified Trauma & Resiliency Coach, First Responder
There are incredible military members and first responders who know and embody loyalty. There are those who make sacrifices and help at a cost to themselves, only to have others focus on the minor inconveniences that may result from those actions. We need to shift the emphasis to appreciating the people in our lives; what they do because of their character and integrity, understanding the gravity of their sacrifice rather than complaining about trivial issues. This is a call to recognize and honour those people and their value. #military #veterans #veteran #servicemembers #loyalty #firstresponders #sacrifice #actions #mindshift #reframe #appreciation #appreciate #character #integrity #honour #honor #recognize #value #iykyk #whatsyourtwentypodcast #help #helpingothers #peoplematter #takecareofeachother #wy20 #whatsyourtwenty #bethankful #gratitude #grace
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