I’ve been thinking a lot about something that’s very near to my heart: “Once a soldier, always a soldier.” It’s not about just wearing the uniform or the marching drills. I’m talking about something deeper! The way being a soldier changes you and stays with you forever.
It feels like yesterday when I was in the army. It was really rough and tough, but it was worth it. I learned a lot about myself in the military or I would say I explored my real potential. I learned how to remain strong when things get rough, how to put others before yourself, and how to never give up. Those lessons have stuck with me forever. And no matter where life takes me after the military, I never stop being a soldier. This mindset always stays with you. It’s a part of you.
Do you know about General Dwight D. Eisenhower? He was a soldier and went on to lead the Allies to victory during World War II. He could’ve stayed comfortable, but he chose to serve. His military experience shaped him into the kind of leader who would make history. You can see the same strength and determination in soldiers like him—even after they put down their uniforms.
Audie Murphy is one of the most known American combat soldiers of World War II. Audie was just a young guy when he enlisted, but he showed incredible bravery and became a hero. Even after the war, he stayed connected to the military community, using his fame to help other veterans. He knew that once you serve, you’re part of something bigger than yourself. The “soldier” inside you doesn’t go away; actually, it grows more and more.
But this isn’t just about famous people. It’s the story of every soldier who has ever served, including you. When you put on that uniform, you make a commitment to something bigger than yourself. The experience you gain doesn’t just stay in the army; it shapes who you are in every part of life. When you’re in the military, you learn to work together with people from all walks of life. You learn how to handle pressure, to think on your feet, and to do what’s right—even when it’s tough. That’s something you carry with you forever.
Being a soldier isn’t just about fighting on the battlefield. It’s about fighting for what’s right, fighting for freedom, and fighting for the people you care about. Even after you take off the uniform, that fighter spirit of service stays inside you. It’s about how you live your life, how you treat others, and how you face challenges.
The military mindset of resilience, discipline, and strength becomes a part of who you are. You may leave the Army, but you don’t leave the lessons you’ve learned. You carry them with you into whatever you do next, whether you’re a father, a teacher, a business owner, or just trying to be the best version of yourself.
So, to all the young men and women thinking about joining, or those of you who’ve already served, remember this: You are a soldier for life and that’s something you should be proud really proud of.
As General George S. Patton once said,
“It is not the battle that makes the soldier, but the soldier who makes the battle.”
You are the soldier, and the world is waiting for you to keep fighting. Remember, once a soldier, always a soldier. Let that guide you, always.
Want to step deeper into the mindset and journey of a soldier give “In Service: A Guide for Soldiers and Those Who Support Them” a read today. It’s packed with stories, insights, and pieces of advice to help you on your own journey, no matter where you’re at. Grab your copy now and continue the mission.
