Topic: Advice For FNGs

[paracowboy]

I’m starting this thread for ALL the Recruits here. This is going to be where all the Veterans, and Active Service Members can come to give advice on little things that you should think about. It’s geared towards troops once they’ve completed their Training, and are FNGs in Battalion. Little life lessons, as well as tips on how to do their job better.
I’ll start with a couple that I've learned from my time in.

1. Never buy a car from a used car lot within a 10 mile radius of your base, or if the lot has a sign that says bring in your Pay Statement. Stay away from them.

2. Open up an account with the credit union on base and set up an allotment for $100 every paycheque to go into that account and DO NOT TOUCH IT FOR ANY REASON until you are out of the service. Or, even better, put it into an RRSP.

3. For any and all debt that you may acquire while in the service, i.e. car payment, car insurance, rent if you live off-base and credit cards. Set up and allotment through your Clerk so that you ARE never late on your payments.

4. Every cab driver will tell you that they are a retired sgt. Be careful to pay attention that they are charging you correctly, no matter how drunk you are.

5. If you are pulled over by an MP and you notice that you out rank them, remember that you DON'T out rank them.

6. NEVER date a troop!

7. Wear eye protection. Wear your hearing protection.

8. Drink water. A lot. (Except right before a jump.)

9. Don't become a Kitslut. Just because it’s green/CADPAT/shiny, doesn’t make it a good piece of kit, and doesn’t make you look hard. It makes you look like a fool who can’t tell the difference.
 
10. When going to the field bring a little extra, you never know what’s gonna happen from one day to the next. If you think you have enough socks, you don't. Snivel kit: You can never have enough. Power bars: You may not have time to sit and eat an IMP. Batteries: Everything we have runs on AA batteries, and the CQ can never get enough. Hot sauce: Because IMPs can plug you up, and hot sauce both counter-acts that, and tastes better.

11. Always be flexible. O Groups, training meetings and other random meetings happen just before lunch or time to go home. Something out of the blue will come up and you’re not going home when you thought you where. Adapt.

12. Never pass up a shot at Basic Para Course, or you may never get it, or get it 6 years later, when you already have a few nagging injuries.

13. Never be afraid to ask questions, stupid or otherwise.

14. Save copies of every set of orders and every PER you receive, you might need them
twenty years later.

15. Make copies of your UER and medical records. Every piece of paper that is generated with your name and service number, keep a copy somewhere safe. Trust me.

16. Never lose your needle book.

17. Remember that tobacco runs out faster that you think it will when you are in the field. Better yet: quit!

18. Forget toilet paper, baby wipes pack smaller, and clean everything.

19. There are 3 people you must make friends with:
   1. The Coy Medic
   2. The Coy Clerk
   3. The Cook

20. Don't be First. Don't be Last.

21. Always have a knife, a lighter, a watch, a pad of paper and a pen/pencil when in uniform.

22. Roll everything you pack, it packs smaller than folding.

23. Look out for shack rats, and chicks who want a guaranteed paycheque and subsidized healthcare.

24. There is no such thing as having too much ammo or water.
 
25. Forget about the GPS. Learn how to use a map and compass.

26. When you are in Basic, and Battle School, save ALL of that money. You don't need to be buying a lot of stuff while you are in Training anyways. Really you only need a little to buy crap like soap...and porn. And you WILL need that cash when you get to your unit.

27. (On a personal note) I don't give a frig how cool you were in high school, so shut up about it when us old, fat guys are telling war stories. You might learn something that will keep you alive later. More importantly, you might learn something that will keep ME alive later.

28. Shut up and do what I tell you. It’s for a reason. I don’t tell you to do crap because I like to watch your *** move.

29. If you are offered a course, no matter what it is, TAKE IT! It’s all paper that says you can LEARN to do something, and many translate into civilian courses that would cost you money to re-do.

30. And most importantly USE YOUR BENEFITS! Learn what they all are, and use them. Especially when getting out. No matter where you think you will be in 5 years, you will need that money for school, or re-training, when you get out.

31. Commissioned From The Ranks Officers will resort to wall-to-wall counselling as quick as a grizzled NCO. Don't frig with them.

32. Remember: That broken-down, chubby old man with the Sgt stripes, or WO crown has been doing this for a lot longer than you. He’s still doing the things that are knocking the snot out of you, and he’s twice your age. He was once a young, cocky private too, and he’s learned a lot since then. You CANNOT kick his ***. He WILL hurt you. Badly. Stop thinking you’ll kick his *** someday. You won’t. You will thank him later, though. Even if only in your memories.

33. Know when to violate the "never volunteer rule." If there are multiple tasks to get handed out, always volunteer for the first one. Chances are good that the later options suck a lot more.

34. Master Corporal is the hardest job in the Army. He’s being a dick because he has to. Do what he tells you, and stop bitching about it. He used to be you.

35. There is a fine line between "thief" and Platoon Scrounge. Taking from the Army (or better, the Air Force) to help the troops out is good. Taking from a troop, for any reason is theft, and you deserve to be beaten severely. And often.

36. Learn how to turn a wrench well. Take care of every vehicle you get assigned to you. DO NOT PISS OFF THE MECHANICS.

37. Learn every job in the Platoon. Hump the C9. Hump the C6. Hump the Radio. Your job is to learn your bosses job. If, after a year, you can't be a section 2IC if necessary, you are a lazy shitbird.

38. Learn the difference between "wants and needs."

39. Only pay cash for major items. Get a credit card. Put a little on it, then pay it off promptly. Build a credit rating. You WILL need it later. But, do NOT put everything on plastic. You end up breaking yourself to pay off the interest rate.

40. Strippers are not your friend. They are paid to pretend to be interested in you. You are an open wallet, not a sex object. Actually, you kind of disgust them. Sucker.

41. The best place to meet hot, brainy chicks is the public library, the local college library, or church. You will not meet your life-mate in a meat-market with a neon sign above it.
 
42. NEVER GO INTO DEBT UNLESS YOU’RE LITERALLY SAVING SOMEONE’S LIFE TO DO IT.

43. If you finance a car then make sure it is paid off before you Release.

44. When you Release, look into ALL of your options, INCLUDING the Reserves.

45. Reenlist for the right reasons, not because you have bills to pay. The reasons you chose to Release did not go away, and you will become a drain on your fellow troop’s morale.

46. Go Airborne, stay Airborne! It’s a mind-set, not a hat. Keep the attitude, even when you lose the Beret.

47. Marrying a chick with debt is okay. Marrying a chick that makes you go into debt further every month is STUPID! Staying with her because she gives you steady sex is even stupider.

48. Don't EVER poke your Warrant awake in the field, in the middle of the night while you’re on stove/radio watch. If he needs to be disturbed, wake him with that nice cup of coffee that you just made for yourself. Trust me.

49. The new 2Lt. is not your buddy. I don't care if he likes the same comic books, video games, and likes to hang out. He doesn't need to know anything that your WO, Sect Comd, or Sect 2IC haven't already told him.  He will someday have to order you into a very dangerous situation. Don’t make it harder for him to choose. The hesitation could get you both killed.

50. Being second or third on a course is cool too. Don't be in the lower 2/3rds. Someone has to be, just don’t let it be you.

51. You ever call your Sect Comd "Sarge" expect a beat down. You deserve it. He is a Sergeant. “Sarge” is that clown in the Beetle Bailey comic strip.

52. Shine your damn boots. Blackening is for PONTIs. Soldiers have shiny boots.

53. If your dick is running, or hurt's when you piss, DON’T wait 3 months to tell a doc about it! Better a little embarrassment now, than having it amputated later. And tell your medic first. DO NOT TELL THE WO first. They might be able to help you out and make it go away.

Anyone (BTDT‘s only) have anything to add?

[airmich]

Nice thread Para...where were you 15 years ago (especially for all of that great money advice)?  LOL


54. If you screw up, admit it.  Everyone makes a mistake at some point.  But learn from it and don't make the same mistake twice.  And if you're questioned about your mistake, or why you did or didn't do something, Keep It Simple Stupid (learn this, it's the KISS rule).  We don't want to hear a story or long-winded explanation.  "Yes PO (insert appropriate rank here), won't happen again PO" and carry on!

[paracowboy]

55. NEVER LIE. I don't care if you had relations with a nun in a pew. Tell me the truth. It will be far easier on you than when I inevitably discover the truth. And I can never trust you again. The Army runs on accountability and reliability. If you are a liar, you have neither.

56. Never quit. I don't care if you have to drag yourself by your fingernails. Never quit. You can feel pride in a poor performance if it took everything you had, but you will only feel shame if you quit.

57. Always give 100%. Whether it's a ruckmarch or a party. Give everything you have.

[CallOfDuty]

---------------take care of your kit.........it's yours.  From underwear to Gas maks...take care of it, and dont lose it.

[E.R. Campbell]

58.   Duty first; you and your fun/recreation/sleep last.  For aspiring junior officers/NCOs: learn to manage your time.  There is so much to be done every day, especially in the field and you have to make sure it is all done and done correctly before you eat, sleep or whatever.

59.   Watch the booze.  We all (well many of us, anyway) enjoy a pint or six with our friends.  There is a time and a place for it.  Be careful when enjoying a drink with superiors.  Booze loosens the tongue and inhibitions and you may end up giving verbal evidence of your own stupidity.

60.   The army is a team.  You are a team member – even, perhaps especially when you lead the team.

61.   Learn, LEARN, LEARN!  You never know enough about anything – especially the thing in which you have just been declared expert.  When it is your turn: Teach, TEACH, TEACH!  Postings to schools are sometimes unpopular; they shouldn’t be – usually only good people are selected for tours as instructors; if you are selected go and do the best damn job you can – and be proud of it.

[medicineman]

59.  Don`t be an *** kisser.  Nobody like them, and nice people like me will let your peers know that you are one, to your face and  in public - then I get to sit back and watch the finger to chest chats start.

60.  Keep your feet hard and if you can`t, learn how to look after them properly if something happens.  Talk to a good medic or old infantry salt to learn how - if your feet are in bad shape, you and your buddies are in fact screwed.

61.  Learn to use a condom properly - a condom a day keeps scrub boy away (ie - me) - whether you`re sober, drunk or in the dark in some car somewhere, know how to get one on properly.  It`ll save you some pain and embarrassment in the future.  This also applies to girls.

62.  Ditto the tobasco or one of those multi spice jars - keeps your bowels moving and makes food oh so much better.

BTW - good idea para.

MM

[paracowboy]

63. No matter what you do, someone will think you are cool, and someone else will consider you a fool. But, you have to look yourself in the eye every morning when you shave.

64. Learn what is important. Your Word, your Duty, your Family. These things are irreplaceable. Material items can be purchased or replaced.

65. Buy, don't rent. Especially land. God stopped making it, so it can only go up in value.

66. RRSPs and Mutual Funds are investments. Beer and cigarettes aren't. Strippers and hookers are not tax-deductible.

[E.R. Campbell]

67.   Think before you speak.  We know you were the top dog in your cadet corps; we don’t much care about what you did; we want to know what you can do.  Actions speak louder than words.

[FourNinerZero]

Great advice, and great idea Para.

And I have a couple of peices of advice, I may not have been in long, but I learn fast.

68. Waterproof everything.

69. pay attention when someone senior or more experenced says "this is important, write this down, remember this for later etc" no matter how trivial it may seem.

70. Get a sense of humor, and try to keep it no matter how shitty life seems at the time.

71. learn the difference between good and bad advice. get a second opinion if your not sure.

[17thRecceSgt]

72.  Don't be a "blade".  A blade is like a rat, someone who shirks responsibility for their actions, or inactions and points the finger at someone else.  They are also the ones that lie, mislead, stuff like that to try to make themselves look squeeky clean.  Your Cpl/MCpl/Sgt/WO will see right thru, if not immediately, sooner than later.  Once you are labelled a blade, it is hard to shake and you are NOT going to like it.  Hand in hand with "not being a blade" is loyalty...to your section/platoon/whatever. 

73.  If you are former Reserve, DO NOT get to your Reg Frce unit and say "well at Unit X, we did it like this".  You are not there anymore. 

[Kat Stevens]

For young officers:
  Your idea is probably not new. If the old hands tell you it won't work, listen to them.  Bear in mind that you hold your position for a year, and are probably his 6th or 7th troop/pl Comd.  He knows it won't work, because he's tried it 6 or 7 times.

[airmich]

73b.  And if you are a current reserve, attached to a RegF unit, don't assume that just because you are the same rank as buddy next to you, that you are equals.  YOU'RE NOT (usually).  Respect his TI and experience, and learn from it.

[Michael O'Leary]

73c.  Prove yourself through actions, not words, and your own TI and experience will also be respected.  Either way, you will be remembered when you return for another deployment.

[paracowboy]

74. You don’t need a tricked-out sports car, Yamasushi rice-rocket, or monster-truck 4x4 right now. What you need is cheap and reliable transportation. The money you save on payments and fuel now, can go towards paying CASH for your dream-machine later.

75. Listen to your MCpls, they want you to succeed. Likewise the Cpls and senior Privates in your platoon. They’re acting out of enlightened self-interest. If you screw up, they have to take up your slack, and spend all their time baby-sitting.

[Teddy Ruxpin]

A few from me - from a different perspective...

74.  At the beginning, you’re nothing special.  The fat old guy in front of you has seen hundreds, if not thousands of soldiers before you.  You get “special” with experience - respect is earned.

75.  Unsolicited ideas are appreciated, especially if they make everyone’s life easier or contribute to success.  Sarcastic “I know better than you” advice or constant bright ideas are annoying and will earn you the wrath of your superiors.

76.  Helping the new officer out is never a bad thing; blading him is. Remember, despite the bumbling newbie he might be now, he may well be a grizzled old Major with a good memory someday.

77.  When deploying, listen to the clerks and ask questions about your benefits if you don’t understand.  Make certain you know where your money is going.

78.    You’re not “on tour” until your boots hit the ground in theatre.  Politicians decide when/where we deploy, not the Army, and missions have been cancelled with zero notice before.  If your mission is cancelled, suck it up and soldier on – there’ll be another one.  Don’t spend tour money before you’ve earned it.

79.  “Snivvel kit” isn’t.  Being comfortable contributes to your own operational effectiveness; any idiot can be miserable.

80.  Don’t buy a big honking knife.  You won’t need it and you’ll look stupid.

81.  Remember that you – or your older buddies – just may not have the “big picture”.

82.  It’s every soldier’s right to complain, but there’s a fine line between complaining and whining.  Try not to cross it.

83.  In the field (or on operations), your officer is scrambling trying to get everything done – stuff you don’t even have to think about until you hit MCpl and stuff you normally don’t even get to see.  While you’re worrying about when you’re on radio watch, he’s worrying about how not to get you killed.

84.  Barrack-room lawyers are usually wrong.

85.  If you’re hurt in training, tell someone.  It might be cool to soldier on, but you’ll regret it 10-15 years from now.

[George Wallace]

86.  One Man - One Kit.  Make sure that you take care of your kit.  If you are not using it, put it back where you got it.  If you got it out of your ruck, put it back into your ruck.  If you got it off your vehicle, restow it.  If you got it out of your closet, put it back.  You'll never loose kit if you take care of it.

87.  Buy a house.  If you are tired of the shacks, don't rent an apartment, buy a house.  The mortgage will probably be less than the rent.  Get a fair size house and have a couple of friends move in with you and pay you rent or share the mortgage.  If you are married, buy a house, don't live in the PMQs or an apartment.  If you buy a house, by the time you retire, you will own a house.  One of two things will happen:  1.  You will be mortgage free or close to it; or 2. You will own a house, that you will be able to sell and purchase another (if not put a decent down payment on another) wherever you want to move to on Retirement.

88.  Don't live in the Qs and buy that big car, a SUV, a snowmobile, an ATV, a camper and yacht.  When you retire, you'll have to sell it all to get a mortgage on a house.

89.  Enjoy as many Tours and Courses as you can when you are single, it is a lot harder when you are married.

[paracowboy]

90. Keep in mind, there is a fine line between “hard” and “stupid”. Learn to recognize that line before you cross it. It’s uglier on the wrong side.

91. There is a difference between “hurt” and “hurting”. When things get rough, EVERYONE is hurting. That is when you cowboy up and drive on. When you are hurt, you become a liability to your platoon. Learn to recognize the difference, and not cross that line.

[paracowboy]

92. stay the hell away from drugs. Period.

[Roy Harding]

93.  If you wouldn't want your Mother to know what you're about to do - it's probably wrong - don't do it.

[Gunner]

94.  When you chose the action, you also chose the consequences.  (CWO Surridge)

[Scott]

95. Swearing is not an "Army thing". Actually, it makes you look pretty stupid when you are home on leave and ask her to "Pass the f*ckin' peas" Not every second word has to be an expletive, you may want to have kids one day and, trust me, your wide will not appreciate Johnny or Janie being sent home from pre school for expanding the other kids vocabulary.

[BulletMagnet]

96. All Range time is time well spent. "A bad day on the Range beats a great day in Garrison.

97.Learn your weapon be your weapon if it's a C7 know everything you can on it, if it's a M777 the same applies. Your life and your sections may someday count on it!.

[CdnArtyWife]

Wow, great thread...I, too, am copying this into a Word doc.

One thing I hear hubby say alot:

98. Time spent on recce is never time wasted, though you will never get that time back, you will be that much smarter for it.

[Maverick894]

99. Fail to plan, plan to fail.

[Excelsior]

100. Don't feel bad or get angry for doing a little extra. Chances are someone else important is watching and taking notice. So what if your peers choose to be a little slack. Doesn't mean you have to be and more importantly, you know you're being the best soldier that you can be.

101. Everyone has the ability to be a good soldier. Some may require a bit more effort and determination but everyone can get there. Don't try to be a great soldier from the start; learn to be a good one before aspiring to be a great one. Once you realized that you stopped trying to be the best soldier that you can be, question why you are still in the army and wearing the uniform.

102. You don't have to like everyone that you work with, but you must work with him/her as a team because you two might be in life and death situation together.

103. There is a line between teasing and malicious attacks. Joking is fine but when a buddy says stop, stop. You're not doing his morale any good. Likewise, learn to grow some thick skin. Army humour can be rough at times and the boys (and girls) are usually just kidding, not meaning to hurt you.

104. People may respect your rank, but not you. Don't ever assume that because you have a certain rank, you are automatically given respect to you personally. Respect is earned, not given.

105. Don't resent if someone with equal rank or lesser rank is put in authority position over you. Chances are someone up the chain did it on purpose and you're not going to make the job any easier by being resentful of it.

106. If you're going to challenge someone who is in higher position than you, remember that his authority is delegated from all the way from the top, meaning the Queen.

[GAP]

103. To young officers just going into the field or or on operation. Listen to your Senior NCO's and WO, they are your savour's. The will teach you what to do and not do. You will become far more effective far more quickly. Pushing your rank around on absurd ideas that you saw in a movie or read in a book, will not only generate a hands-off attitude, but could get you or someone else killed.

104. Clean your weapon....clean you weapon...every chance you get...clean your weapon.

[Michael O'Leary]

103a.   To the 'grizzled NCO' (and those planning to bcome one) remember that that young officer has likely just come away from a course where he/she may have been taught tactics, techniques, procedures, and doctrinal expectations for command that you haven't seen before.  Listen to the officer's side and be ready for change because it may be part of a bigger picture.  And sometimes, in garrison and in training situations, that young officer needs the opportunity to find out the hard way what doesn't work too.

[GAP]

103a.   To the 'grizzled NCO' (and those planning to bcome one) remember that that young officer has likely just come away from a course where he/she may have been taught tactics, techniques, procedures, and doctrinal expectations for command that you haven't seen before.  Listen to the officer's side and be ready for change because it may be part of a bigger picture.  And sometimes, in garrison and in training situations, that young officer needs the opportunity to find out the hard way what doesn't work too.

excellent point!!

[paracowboy]

103b. To the young Officer: Remember, it is not your job to kick in doors and be number one in the stack. Your place is back a bound, with radio in hand, maintaining command and control. Your Sect Comds and Sect 2ICs can handle the small stuff. You plan, not shoot. Your Platoon is your personal weapon. Take care of it, and it will take care of you.

103c. To the young Pl Signaller: make sure your Officer eats and sleeps. If he's keen, he'll worry about his job to the point of not caring for himself. He will skip meals and skip sleep, make mistakes and get your *** dead. If you have to, prepare his meals for him, grab him, and sit him down. If you have to, lay out his Bag, put him in it, and not allow anyone to bother him unless it's life and death for a few hours out of every 24. Have someone in Pl HQ carry extra coffee. The youngster is going to need it. So will you.

[17thRecceSgt]

104.  Be aware of your personal hygiene, or lack of it.  If you strangely find a bar of soap on your bedspace and "Use Me" is written on it, its a hint.  Keep your space clean.  Keep your kit clean.  Keep your body clean.  No one likes a pig pen, especially when you are jammed like sardines 16 to a 12 man room type of deal.  Wash.  Yourself.  Your uniform.  Your bedding.  Your kit.  Learn what hygiene is important in the field from your Cpl/MCpl/Sgts.  They do it for a reason.  So should you.  If your nickname on the course is anything along the line of "stinky bloggins" or "pig pen", you have a problem.  Deal with it.  Your course or platoon/troop/det will appreciate it.

[George Wallace]

106  Hot Food and Hot Water.  When a member of a Crew or Section, when you brew up coffee and a hot meal, do it for everyone.  They guy on sentry or off doing some other dirty task doesn't have time to do it when he gets back.  Brew up that coffee and meal for the guy out doing the shyte job or the officer off getting orders.  They have enough to do, without having to come back and cook up a meal.  Same goes for washing.  If you heat up water to wash and shave, don't forget about the guys off getting orders or on sentry.  You are a team, so act like one.  Some day it will be you coming back at 0300 hrs from a shyte job or orders and an empty belly.

107  Sleeping.  When a member of a Crew or Section, it is always good to take your crewmates into consideration when sleeping.  If you have to, set up their sleeping bag or kit, so it will be ready for them when they get back from a shift or orders.  If they get called away in a hurry, pack it up for them. 

[George Wallace]

108.  In Winter Warfare scenarios, Shave at night before going to bed.  That way the natural oils will be able to 'rejuvenate' and you will have less problem with getting wind burn or frost bite.

[Goober]

109 Don't piss off your 'Q' staff.

[paracowboy]

110. don't get into your sleeping bag with clothes on. Undress down to skivvies, and take your socks off. You'll just be colder when you get out of it.

111. don't put the first two rounds of your magazine, tracer. Those rounds never go anywhere near the bad guy. Put your two tracer rounds, the third and fourth from the top. Don't use tracer rounds to mark the last rounds in the magazine. The bad guys know that trick and watch for it.

112. First Aid training is never a waste of time. Even when the instructor is a babbling moron yapping about stupid civilian scenarios, the injuries and symptoms are the same in many battlefield situations.

113. If you look at it right, EVERYTHING is training. Even waiting a half-hour in Timmy's drive-through is teaching you patience and tolerance. It'll come in handy when you have to deal with the boredom between periods of intense excitement.

[Michael O'Leary]

114.  Always have a backup plan. If you get hurt in training and can't stay in your current trade, have a plan for another trade ready. Remember you won't always be a front line shooter; be prepared to work in stores, transport, or (again) be ready for a new trade if circumstances dictate you'll be a more effective contributor there. You won't always be in the Army, be ready for when you get out. Learn how to interpret the leadership and other fundamental skills you acquire in civilian terms for future employers.  Never shy away from training that teaches you different things; 'General Safety' and 'Harassment Advisor' mean things in the world; an NCO who worked in Company Transport knows how to manage a fleet of delivery trucks too. Give your career everything for now, but remember it's just one stage of your whole life.

[paracowboy]

115. If all you can think about is her eyes, her ***, her tits, or that face she makes at “the moment”, you are NOT in love. You are horny. Do NOT marry her. If you catch yourself wanting to show her that puppy or funny poster because it will make her smile, or wanting to slap yourself for the things you find yourself doing for her, you ARE in love. Wait a few months before you propose. You might be wrong. It could be malaria.

[medicineman]

112. First Aid training is never a waste of time. Even when the instructor is a babbling moron yapping about stupid civilian scenarios, the injuries and symptoms are the same in many battlefield situations.

I second that - I never cease to be amazed at how many people pay lip service to FA training.  I`m quite bemused at how many first aid experts there are perported to be in the ranks and then when someone gets a little owee they go screaming for a medic (who may be busier with something a little less trivial).  Also remember this, it might be me or one of my colleagues that are hit...

MM

[George Wallace]

116.  Smoking and Night Vision Devices.  Smokers beware.  Night Vision Devices pick up the light from you butt and it illuminates everything around you for tens of meters, just like daylight.  A butt can be visible for several miles (kilometers for those who have gone metric).

[paracowboy]

117. start getting used to shaking out your boots before you put them on now. When you deploy to a desert or jungle, you will have all manner of critters crawl into them. Some are poisonous. All are icky.

118. put everything in exactly the same place, all the time. In the middle of the night, when rounds are coming in, is NOT the time to wonder "Now, where'd I put my helmet again?"

119. only unpack what you need at that moment. Keep your crap tight, and a firm grip on your kit. You do NOT want to be scrambling around trying to put everything back in your ruck or patrol bag with seconds to spare, and me looming over you with a big stick and a deadline.

[Scott]

120. Soldiers have interesting names for places where fornicating with shack rats is a possibility, learn these places names and avoid trying to meet Miss Right in them as it will most likely end up all wrong. We are aware that there are people who meet Miss Right in those places and go on to live happily ever after, we applaud them, we just do not ever assume that we will be a part of that select group.

121. Meeting Miss Right takes time - not a bar tab.

122. Remember that there are people who like to share all sorts of wild stories about soldiers. Do your best not to give them material.

[George Wallace]

122.a.  Loose Lips Sink Ships.  Always watch what you say and to whom.  OPSEC ans PERSEC are easy to break if you are careless.

[paracowboy]

122b. The local picking up your garbage, or mopping out the toilet has a family and very little money. The bad guys know this, too. He may very well speak English. So SHUT UP!

122c. You family will send you stuff. On the packages they send, they will put their address. Burn it. You do not want to repay their concern with hate mail or a letter bomb.

122d. Your wife talks to other people. You don't know who they are, or who they speak to. If it isn't something you want broadcast on the evening news, SHUT UP! The bad guys watch CBC and read the National Post, too.

122e. That nice guy/pretty girl the CBC embedded with you is trying to make money, and get famous. His/her agenda does not match yours, so SHUT UP!

[medicineman]

123.  There may come a time when Ms Right, now Mrs Right, either becomes fed up with you going away all the time or you become fed up with her complaining all the time about you going away.  Make sure the two of you keep talking, or else you may just come home to nothing but a roll of TP in the house (if you`re lucky) and that joint bank account empty.  Oh yeah, and some dude/ette waiting to serve you notice of divorce proceedings.

MM

[Scott]

123a. Do not take advantage of other troops going away. Do not be a home wrecker. You will learn in the future what I mean. You do not want that reputation.

123b. You love her, you are faithful, you were away, she stepped out. You had better deal with it and deal with it right. If you have kids with her then the kids even more of a reason to make sure it is done right. You will survive, you will love again, but not if you brood over her. Take some time to be pissed off, talk to your buddies, but you have to move on.

[paracowboy]

124. the C9 is a Section weapon. It protects the entire Section. It also takes much longer to clean properly. Help the gunner clean it when your rifle/carbine is done.

124a. the C6 is a Platoon weapon. It protects the entire Platoon. It also takes much longer to clean properly. Help the gunner clean it when your rifle/carbine is done.

124c. nobody is finished Post-Ex drills until the entire Section, and then the entire Platoon is. You are not "a buncha guys", you are a single unit.

[Michael O'Leary]

124d.  If the driver, gunner and crew commander are getting the vehicle squared away at end-ex, pitch in if the Section 2IC organizes getting their personal weapons cleaned.  Concurrent activity saves everyone time.

[paracowboy]

125. Use the waist belt on your rucksack. It doesn’t take any more time to put on/take off, and adds years of use to your back. Put a good waist belt on it, instead of the strap, if at all possible.

126. Scramble around to get yourself a ‘64-pattern rucksack. You can carry the same amount of stuff, it‘s smaller, and much more comfortable. The coat-hanger frame, patrol bag, and new ruck are crap, since they don’t have a sturdy enough frame to hump jerries of water, crates of ammo, or anything else of that nature. And you WILL be doing that.

127. Dummy-cord everything. From your MNVGs, to your favourite pocket knife (especially if it’s a really expensive, top-line model your wife researched for weeks to buy you for your anniversary, and had your name and jump wings engraved in it.)

128. Use the weak eye for the MNVGs. Keep your dominant eye adjusted to the night.

129. For the young Officer: Soldiers will always tell the truth about good and bad commanders, perhaps not to that Officer‘s superior, but more likely amongst themselves. Listen to how they refer to them, watch how they obey. Their opinion is the ultimate evaluation of an officer. (Ironic number, considering the topic)

130.  Taking the easy way will get you killed. The bad guys know all the easy routes, too. 

131. Nobody cares how far/fast you can run in shorts, when compared to how far/fast you can ruckmarch with full equipment. Endurance should be judged on the obstacle course, not on a marathon run.

132. Never apply after-shave or cologne before going to the field. It draws both enemy and mosquitoes. Also insults and mockery.

133. Velcro is not a good idea on any piece of kit you use in the field. It is very loud. Especially at night, and even more so on the Ambush.

134. Turn your damn watch alarm and cell phone ring OFF before going to the weeds!

135. The one night you don't dig in, is the one night your position will be mortared. When told to dig, DIG! Dig deep, and dig fast. Rockets can really ruin your night.

136. For the young Officer: No commander was ever hated for being “too hard.” Many are detested for trying to cultivate that image, without substance. If you’re carrying a 30 lb rucksack, and he’s carrying 120 lbs, nobody is impressed at how fast you march. Take the spare batteries from your signaller. Hump some of the C6 ammo. In the early days of 3RCR, our Commanders carried their own radios.

[pylon]

137.  The map and compass are ALWAYS right, you're NOT.

[Shamrock]

138.  STFU.  A complaint is a critical evaluation of a situation, passed along through the appropriate means with a solution to the problem.  A whine is a vocalization of your own weakness.  Complaints remedy, whines annoy.

139.  STFU.  They probably know more than you.

140.  There are such things as stupid questions.  Questions that serve no purpose other than to entertain the course or undermine instructors' authority are stupid questions.  Questions that you can answer with a little thought are stupid questions. Questions that result in you or your course in the push-up position are stupid questions.

141.  If it needs getting done, do it.  If it's broken, fix it.  If it's on the ground, pick it up.  If it's unlocked, lock it.  If something's missing, replace it.  If something's dirty, clean it.  Do it right away.  Later means never or when I'm told.

142.  Don't be a martyr.  You screw up, accept the punishment, accept your responsibility, carry on.  Don't start going out of your way to get in crap or stop working at 100% to show everyone how much the WO hates you.

143.  Drivers:  Take it easy on the crew.  You listen to the I/C.  They're listening to (at least) two radios, standing in a stabilized turret, and trying to spot & engage the enemy all the while doing impersonations of terrified starfish.  In driverese, that means they have a lot more on their plates than you do.  If they're being curt, suck it up; it's not personal until they write a letter to your mother describing how incompetent you are.  That little bump that caused you to hit your head on the hatch probably launched the crew commander into temporary orbit.  APC drivers take note: I've seen a lot of riflemen carried out on a spinal board because the driver was a pissy little child.

144.  Keep your head engaged.  Take night courses, take correspondence courses, join a sports team, get a hobby.  Anything that enriches you as a person enriches you as a soldier.  Bring your outside knowledge back to your unit.  Give your helmet a reason to exist.

145.  Small head on big shoulders is better than a big head on small shoulders.

146.  Have pride in your self, your company, your unit, your trade, your element, your country.

147.  Know the difference between pride and indignantion.

148.  Help your buddies but don't be a sucker.

149.  Ask for help but don't be a burden.

150.  Never ever give your buddies a reason to distrust you.

151.  Never ever trust the media.  They're there for their story, which may or may not be in or about the same grid square as the truth.  Don't give them anything, but this includes a reason to distrust you.  Your opinions are your own and they will either twist them, misinterpret them, misunderstand them, or spin them to their benefit -- so keep them to yourself.  Your expertise is what they require, so only give them info within your arcs.  Handy rule: if it can't be answered with numbers, then pause before you proceed.

152.  Think before you use your camera.  Think before you pose for a picture.  Bloody well freaking think before posting anything on the Internet.

153.  The MP's aren't all chronic buttholes.  Most of them are outstanding soldiers -- give them the benefit of the doubt.  Failing that, don't doubt their ability to arrest you.  Sometimes, the MP's will do things to our benefit.  This can include bailing you out from a Greek prison during R&R.

154.  Club Ed isn't as fun as it sounds.

155.  In a bar:
     (a) Don't piss the infantry guys off.  They may be dumb, but they're ornery and they never travel alone.
     (b) Don't piss the armoured guys off.  They may be fat and lazy, but their breech blocks weigh more than you and they've had more concussions than you've had IMP's.
     (c) Don't piss the engineers off.  They work with explosives charges that outweigh your car.
     (d) Don't start a fight with someone uglier than you are.

156.  Exercise self control.  The dessert fridge isn't an invite, an open bar isn't a personal challenge, gravy isn't a beverage, and window mail isn't an excuse to go postal.

157.  Don't dismiss the Reserves.  Their wacky new ideas may actually make life easier.

158.  Don't stick your finger anywhere you wouldn't stick your willy.  Stupid women: when in doubt, find a stupid man.

159.  Don't listen to rumours unless you're going to debunk them, don't start rumours unless they're funny.

160.  "Sarge" is a rank in the air force.

161.  New officers: be the type of officer that inspires a soldier to throw himself on a grenade to save the platoon commander, not the type of officer that inspires a soldier to throw the commander on a grenade to save the platoon.

162.  PT isn't just a two letter acronym the Infantry use to describe the first half of their day.  Do it, and if necessary, do it on your own time.  

163.  If you're about to sign a second contract and you're still in PAT/PRETC platoon, reconsider your military career.

164. Pay attention to what the corporals say and do.  More than anyone, they want to see you do things right because they will be up until 0-dawn-hundred working with you.

165.  Pack light, freeze at night.  But you gotta carry it.  Leave space for mission essential kit.

166.  Never ever ever ever second guess your training.  Even if you are tired to think, blink, or turn around, there is one way and one way only to conduct certain drills, such as a proper unload.  ND charges ain't cheap.

167.  Footpowder is your friend.  So are chapstick, sunscreen, skin lotion, and bug dope.
     (a) Never ask anyone to throw you some footpowder.  Never borrow chapstick.

168.  Throw a bounce sheet in your sleeping bag.  Having your sleeping bag smell like fresh laundry beats having it smell like stale arse and those sheets last a while.

169.  Hard candies/boiled sweets will keep you awake a hell of a lot better than coffee.  So will water.

170.  Taking something to help you stay awake through your shift will probably mean you'll be awake long after your shift, too.

171.  If you're feeling thirsty, drink some water.  If you're feeling fatigued, drink some water.  If you have a headache, drink some water.  If your joints are creaking, drink some water.  If your piss is yellow, drink some water.  If your buddy is drinking some water, drink some water.  Zero calories and tastes great.  Camelbaks are great, so are the hoses that will fit our canteens (better with the 2L's because they won't slosh).


172.  The most common injury in the winter is heat exhaustion.

173.  Waterproof everything.  That includes the stuff in your breast pockets.  Ziploc bags work wonders.

[Kat Stevens]

174.  If you get a chance to eat hot food, take it.  Nothing is grosser than armpit temperature MRE's.
175.  If you get a chance to sleep, take it.  You may not get another chance for a loooong time.

[17thRecceSgt]

176.  Timings.  Meet them.  ALWAYS.  That usually means being 15 minutes early.  Make it a habit. 

[2 Cdo]

177. Why run if you can walk, why stand when you can sit, why sit when you can lay down. When in doubt rack out!

[Michael O'Leary]

178.  Keep things in perspective; after a week in the field you may be worried about how soon you can get back to the shack to change and head out to the strip club for the first time this week.  Your Section Commander may have missed another parent teacher interview, your Section 2IC might have missed seeing his daughter take her first steps.  Until you understand what's happening around you, don't think your personal life is so important it overshadows the lives of those around you.

[Shamrock]

179.  Know that old guy wearing the faded old QL2 8401 t-shirt with a tri-service badge, a skull, some snakes and a lame saying on it? Think of that when you're recommend a course tattoo.

180. If your rifle is ever father than fingertip length away, it's too far away.

181.  Slings are handy but are no substitute for your hands.  See above.

182.  If you've ever failed PWT 1 think about getting more range time than the yearly qualification shoot.  This doesn't require an accompanying bit of humor because, really, we're all laughing at the thought of someone failing PWT 1.

183.  That $600 you're thinking of spending on an anti-tank knife is probably better spent on a fantastic pair of boots and a fresh pair of running shoes.  If your running shoes are more than a year old, replace them.

184.  If you think it's a booby trap, it's a booby trap.  If you've thought of booby trapping it, it's booby trapped.  If that dirt pile wasn't there last time you came through, it's a booby trap.   That pile of wires looks suspiciosus?  It's a booby trap.  Anything that you think would look cool at home is booby trapped.

185.  Your own stupidity may not kill you, it could kill your buddy.

186.  Overseas, keep your comments to your self.  Sometimes, people won't admit they speak English (or French), and when you start talking like Archie Bunker, they get angry.

187.  Find out who Archie Bunker was.

188.  "Good enough" isn't.

189.  Be professional at all times, in our out of uniform.  Like it or not, 24/7 you are a representative of the CF.  Your stupidity will reflect on more than just yourself, it reflects on the entire Forces.

190.  Decorum marks the soldier, not the kit.  Google "Cosmotactical."

191.  If you are the only one who is right, you are wrong.

192.  Volunteering or being first isn't always bad.  Being last is.

193.  If you think you're looking cool doing something, you're either not looking cool or not doing it correctly.
     (a) Visit http://www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca/common/combatcamera/Default.asp.  Find the ones who are looking cool and seperate them from the guys who are doing their jobs.  Guess which group warrants emulation.

194.  Never listen to "them."

195.  40 isn't old.  Remember that when you're 30, still living in the PMQ's or SQ's and your only equity is a crotch rocket and a 200" TV.

[Scott]

196. You are too young to have war stories. You did not lead a battle while in Cadets. You are not anything but a recruit. Learn to live with the preceding and embrace it, this will be the only time in your career when you'll be the FNG, from now on you'll be expected to learn, to remember, to teach, to help, etc. Like Mom said, do not grow up too fast.

197. Speak in even tones, don't scream at anyone, it confuses people, gets them excited and makes them want to punch you. You will not look very professional jumping around like a baboon or with busted teeth.

198. Do not hog the phone, there are other people who may wish to call home and there are never enough phones for all. Be the guy who everyone remembers for pulling their weight and always lending a hand to someone who needs it.

199. Your buddies girlfriend just told him she fornicated with the entire athletic department at a very large University, he wants to talk. So talk to him but do not become his crutch. You are not a psychologist, you certainly are not his psychologist and maybe this is something, if it's that serious, that the Staff should know about. Re-read 123b

199a. If your buddy is talking about hurting himself you had better remember that he has access to weapons. It is not a blade if you save someones life or get them help that they really need.

200. Make your loved ones proud, write to them while you are away, this will make them feel better about you being gone.

200a. If your mother is still around and is a decent woman then you had better write to her!

200b. Girls, write to Dad, he's off his rocker with worry and pride.

[Marauder]

202. It's gonna suck sometimes. No way around it.

203. Carrying the 203 isn't punishment, it's the section cmdr's way of letting you know he trusts you to know to use that bad boy.

204. Yes, the MCPL/SGT/WO/SarMajor *is* a flaming prick. And there ain't crap you can do about it, so stop pointing out the obvious, Captain Obvious.

205. Don't be the bad example that your leadership uses as a teaching point to the rest of the section/platoon.

206. Don't be light, don't be late, and don't be last.

207. Finish ugly if you have to, but finish.

208. Never forget that one perfect patrol you get, when you have boss weather, a clear beautiful night, you get five uninterrupted hours of rack before heading out, and you get ahold of your favourite IMP to munch on before stepping off with three of you best buds. Burn into your memory the feeling of sneakin' and peekin', the rush of finishing your cloverleaf with that dimwit spare part on the objective thinking you got lost on the way because he never saw you or your boys putting eyes on. Remember that feeling of overwhelming competance and joy in your job. It will sustain you when you're told to sweep the hangar for the fifth ******* time that day because there is nothing else to do, or bring your spotless weapon back to CQ for the third and nowwhere near final time because he's having a shitty day and taking it out on you and your fellow shut up die rank criminals.

210. If you have no clue what to do, follow the example of the nearest senior CPL.
       210a. Unless he's still a Corpral (with two CDs) against his will.

211. Be there for buddy, don't frig buddy, help buddy when he needs it, kick buddy in the *** when he needs it. Avoid, castigate, and disown buddy that won't do the same for you.

212. Your loyalty to the Regiment outweighs your personal loathing of the shitpumps that sometimes wind up wearing your capbadge. Protect all who wear your capbadge as if protecting your own brother/sister.
      212a Unless that person wearing your capbadge is knowingly/willingly doing something that will disgrace or harm the Regiment. Then it's your personal responsibility to stomp that crapweasel.

213. Section cmdrs can't make you a smarter private, but they can and will make you a stronger private. Don't frig with them.

[EX_RCAC_011]

214.find people higher to emulate and pick their traits apart develop yourself with everything they do that you like.

215.no matter how many hours you sit and ***** about something it will never change.Maybe you have the answer no one thought of respectfully speak up.

216.Until a Cpl Tell's you to call him mike ,George ,or sweetie don't.Just cause one cpl with no friends is your buddy doesn't mean the crusty guy in the corner is on a first name basis.


217. The hook trooper who drops by your room the first day you arrive at the shacks should be avoided like disease.He's there to tell you all about his grand 7 months at the regiment, and most likely he has one friend and that's now you.

[Shadow]

218.  Call your wife/husband at the same rate as your peers.  If they are calling once a day and you are calling once every two weeks, your spouse is talking to the other spouses and will know right away.  S/he will make your tour overseas a living hell as well as those in your administrative chain of command when she calls the rear party freaking out.  Make an agreement before you leave as to how often you will be able to talk/email/write.

219.  The Sigs guys are your friends.  Do not piss them off or abuse the services they provide, or you won't be calling home to anybody.

220.  Do not give your significant other the CSN access # to the overseas camp you are on.  Things go a little sour when there is a female switchboard operator and someones wife is on the line demanding to know who the operator is and where her husband is. (uhh...WHO?)

221. (My most important one) Do not take life too seriously, try to make the best of every situation.  You probably did not join the military because you thought you would hate it.  Take things with a grain of salt, and love what you do.  Optimism is contagious, spread the love.  If you approach things in a fun and positive way, then it makes those around you worry less about the fact they are away from their families, and focus more on the task at hand.

[BYT Driver]

Gotta say that this is a great string, wish some of us were around when I jioned up.  But, then again, some things are better learned thru experience than instruction.


222.  Proper Planning Prevents Piss-poor Performance.  Plan, plan and plan some more. If you think you're going to need it on tour or in the bush, pack it!  It's better to have that item and not need it, than to need it and not have it.  First Rule of the Field--Any Idiot  can be uncomfortable.

223.  Before you go away on tour, IF you and your significant other are having problems of any sort; let the social worker know during your DAG interview.  Any small problem will get HUGE ten fold while you're away.  Remember, nowadays, your significant other mostly has the last word about your departure. Never go away angry at each other, never fight on the phone and always let them know how much they mean to you.
     223b.  Significant other--Always let your other know how much they mean to you and how proud you are of them.  Never bring up bad stuff on the phone (rembember: charlie is listening )

224.  You will never be "irreplaceable".  Nor will you know everything about your job.
      224b.  If you didn't learn something today, it's been a wasted day.

225.  That honking big tome of a novel you are reading at home (that you think the guys will make fun of you for) makes a great companion on the long plane ride.  Besides, when you're done with it, you can give it to the camp library.  If your sig. other has read it, then it can give you a subject of discussion besides "well, same ****, different day here honey."

226.  Mind/puzzle games are great for long periods of monotony.  Not only do they help pass the time, but they help improve your problem solving skills that will come in handy later in your career.
      end for now.   

[probum non poenitet]

231. Look after your knees. You will miss them when they are gone. Same goes for hips, backs, and ankles.

232. Cool tattoos are forever. Stupid tattoos are also forever. Tattoos you cannot cover will be there for every job interview, every first date, every meet the in-laws, and every meet the teacher night for the rest of your life. Tattoos you can cover will be there for every second date, or third date at the outside.

233. Talk to the grey haired fellows in the Legion, the ones with all the medals. They appreciate it. You will too. Listen more than you talk. Many lessons still matter 60 years later. Normandy was tougher than Battle School.

234. Odds are pretty good that someone in your platoon is predisposed to alcoholism. Bear that in mind if you go out drinking every weekend. Know the signs and watch for them. Help your friend, don't make it worse. NEVER force someone to drink who doesn't want to. It's not weakness, it's a disease.

235. It doesn't matter if you release tomorrow and live to be 100. A part of you will always be a soldier. The way you start your career will set the tone for the rest of your life. Do it right.

236. Stretch.

[Scott]

237. Just because you have no way to spend money for long times during course doesn't mean you have to go blow 400 bucks on booze in one sitting. Read 234 a few more times, please.

238. There are people who think soldiers are arseholes, you can do nothing about this except to act as though you wish to change that opinion, not reinforce it for them.

239. No, you may not beat the anti-war protesters. Yes, they have the right to do what they are doing. Yes, you defend that right. Yes, you can tell them that (If in the position to) No, you may not tell them with vulgarity. Read 238 again.

Add on to 233 - Yes you are the serving soldier now and everyone knows how tough you are, but perhaps you should be the one buying the beers when those chats are happening, those men have really earned it, maybe, some day, you will have as well.

[Haggis]

240.  During post ex and post op drills, nobody is done until the CQ/SQ says so.

241.  Listen.  Lots and often.

242.  Expand your professional knowledge.  Seek out those who you can learn from.

243.  Learn to fight.  Learn how to fight, with and without weapons.  More importantly, learn when to fight.

244.  Never drop or throw anything that could keep you alive (rifle, helmet, ballistic plates, compass, water bottle, etc. etc.)

[Scott]

247a. When you say, "It won't happen again, [rank]." You had better make damn sure that it does not happen again, ever. Do not be afraid to make mistakes, you will. Learn from them and soldier on. Do not repeat mistakes you should have already learned from.

[SeaKingTacco]

Most of this is aimed at Officers:

254.  The troops eat first. Always. 
255.  You will always remember your first Platoon/Troop Warrant.  He has lots of good advice for you.  Learn to follow it.  By the way- even if you get bad advice and follow it, you, not him, are responsible.
256.  You are responsible for everything, good or bad, that happens in your troop or platoon from the second you take command.  You cannot ever delegate that responsibility. You should, however, delegate authority whenever appropriate.  It teaches trust.
257.  Mission. Men. Self.  Note that you are always last.  That's why you get paid the big bucks.
258.  Praise in public, discipline in private.
259.  Never raise your voice.  That is what your NCO's are paid to do.  You yelling just makes you look like a tool.
260.  Never dispense discipline when angry.  Ever.
261.  You will work late and come in early.  Get used to it.
262.  You are paid to make tough decisions under extreme pressure.  Do what you are paid to do.  Remember, a mediocre, but violently executed plan now is better than the perfect plan 10 minutes too late.
263.  If you don't know what to do, do something!  Chances are, once you get moving, you will figure it out. 
264.  By all means have a beer with your troops, on occasion (Your Warrant will let you know how often is reasonable).  Do more listening than talking.  Don't get loaded.
265.  Promote the welfare and the accomplishments of your troops, always.
266.  Your job is to motivate and train your troops to win battles.  You are not their buddy.  It is not a popularity contest. You are not there to entertain them.  If you slack off on them in peacetime, you will just get them killed in wartime.
267.  Ultimately- you are in charge and have the final say.  If things go great- wonderful.  Praise your troops.  If things go massively, disasterously wrong, EVEN IF YOU HAD NOTHING PERSONALLY TO DO WITH IT, you WILL accept all of the responsibility and blame no one, even if it means the end of your career.  That is why you get paid the big bucks and have a nice Mess, with leather chairs and table clothes.

for what it's worth...

[BYT Driver]

knock off the bullshit

para, is this advice or are you telling us to keep on track here?

270.  If a buddy/friend tells you something in confidence over beers or drinks or coffee at work, and it's not something that will hurt or harm another person, or illegal, immoral or fattening;  keep it to yourself and be a good buddy/friend who knows how to keep his/her mouth shut. That's how rumours and bad reps start.


271. If you hear a rumour, do not pass it on!  If you're the nosey type, find out the Truth behind it.  If it's about a buddy/friend, let them know what's going on and find out the truth behind it.  Your friend should respect you more for bringing it to thier attention and not passing it around.  If your friend is having a problem, help them out with advice or seek professional help, or just be the shoulder to cry on.  Trust me, it all helps and no one is an island.   

[xo31@711ret]

...a leader knows he still has more to learn (no matter what the rank), an idiot thinks he knows everything...

...Anyone young commander given a position of authority who arrogantly ignores the advice of his NCO is a fool, for he jeopardices the mission and lives of his command...

...Every leader should seriously take counsel and advice of all his NCOs for they have knowledge & experience, yet the final decision/responsibilty is his/hers to make....

...do not give an order for which you yourself would not be willing to partake...

OFG (old f***guy)

711was031  just retired

[Michael O'Leary]

OK folks, this thread has started to drift from it's original (serious) intent.  It's locked.  That will give paracowboy an opportunity to clean it up (don't whine if a post of yours disappears) and then new additions can be submitted through him, or he may open it up to a new round of entries.