presentation on life of soldiers

Newly Launched - World's Most Advanced AI Powered Platform to Generate Stunning Presentations that are Editable in PowerPoint

Researched by Consultants from Top-Tier Management Companies

Powerpoint Templates

Icon Bundle

Kpi Dashboard

Professional

Business Plans

Swot Analysis

Gantt Chart

Business Proposal

Marketing Plan

Project Management

Business Case

Business Model

Cyber Security

Business PPT

Digital Marketing

Digital Transformation

Human Resources

Product Management

Artificial Intelligence

Company Profile

Acknowledgement PPT

PPT Presentation

Reports Brochures

One Page Pitch

Interview PPT

All Categories

Top 25 Army & Military PowerPoint Templates to Honor Our Heroes

Malvika Varma

Life and death meet face to face at the time of war. Everything collapses and lots of lives are lost but sadly, war is sometimes inevitable. While nobody likes the idea of having to leave their family and friends, some of our fellow countrymen have taken up arms to defend their country.  It takes great valor and sacrifice to do what our soldiers do.

“We sleep peaceably in our beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on our behalf.” - George Orwell

Military power has a critical role in the creation and sustenance of the international political and economic order. A strong military ensures a higher degree of security and stability. It also gives the ability to seize or reduce its neighboring countries and potential rivals in areas such as economics, political or resource-based power. History tells us about the countries whose eventual downfall came on the battlefield.

“The Army is the true nobility of our country.”  – Napoleon Bonaparte

It is for the military men who sacrifice their lives so that we can live in a free and prosperous society. Even more so, the brave soldiers and veterans risk their lives to safeguard our freedom and liberty. We enjoy liberty and freedom much because of the courageous men and women at the battlefield who dedicate their lives to protect their nation. The selfless act of valor of our military men and women deserves to be honored.

May is celebrated as Military Appreciation Month as it includes many United States military celebrations and commemorations, such as Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Armed Forces Day, and most importantly, Memorial Day. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May to pay homage to the men and women who have died while serving in the military. As our military force deserves to be honored and appreciated, SlideTeam has designed Top 25 Army & Military PowerPoint Templates for you to download.

Explore these professionally designed PowerPoint templates and appreciate the fearless soldiers.

Top 25 Army & Military PowerPoint Templates to Download

Military forces play a crucial role in the safety of the citizens of the nation. Emphasize the significance of the armed forces by downloading this striking military PowerPoint template. It can be employed to announce events such as Memorial Day and Armed Forces Day to showcase all the pride and strength of our soldiers. The simplistic yet elegant style and fully-customizable layout make this PowerPoint background a great option for any military-related website.

Perfect for events such as Memorial Day, download this military PowerPoint theme to commemorate exceptional service of the military men and women. The flag background of this military PowerPoint template makes it suitable for paying tribute to the soldiers who fight for the country’s safety. A military school, army, and military service advertisement website can easily incorporate this attractive PowerPoint theme

Training institutes website can easily employ this editable military PowerPoint template. Also, it fits the war military club, veterans association, etc. websites and can help in raising funds for the wellbeing of the families of the martyrs. Encourage students to take military services as a career with this military PPT background. The significance of good health can also be discussed with the assistance of this splendid army PowerPoint layout.

Armed forces deserve all the respect from the citizens which can be elaborated by this attractive military PowerPoint theme. You can employ this fully customizable army PowerPoint template for a military school website. Recruitment of any branch of the service like air force, navy, etc. can be effectively communicated with the help of this military PowerPoint template. 

Download our eye-catching military PowerPoint template to honor our soldiers for events such as Army Day and Memorial Day. The patriotic design of this pre-designed military PowerPoint theme makes it perfect for school and college projects. This army PowerPoint theme can be useful in case of selling military gear. It is high-quality, easy to edit, and customizable military PPT background.

Incorporate this military PowerPoint template for highlighting the missions of the armed forces for a seminar or conference. Information regarding recruitment in military services can be illustrated on the website by employing this eye-catching PowerPoint background. You can create a navy website showcasing the pride and valor with the help of this editable military PowerPoint layout.

Our navy PowerPoint theme can be downloaded by school teachers to educate students about the armed forces of the country. The history of the navy can be elucidated in seminars and conferences by utilizing this easy-to-edit military PowerPoint template. Activity camps can also incorporate this attractive PowerPoint layout for showcasing the details of model making competition.

Pay a tribute to the brave soldiers of the military with this editable army PowerPoint template. You can download this visually appealing military PowerPoint theme for the website that sells military uniforms and can increase your customers. You can also utilize this professionally designed military PowerPoint background to give details of the events of celebrating the nation’s armed forces. 

Download this navy PowerPoint template to showcase the honor for the defense forces. Boot camps, military clubs, military service promotion websites, veterans associations, etc. can utilize this versatile military PowerPoint theme. Recruitment agencies can employ this aesthetically appealing military PowerPoint background to mention the eligibility details of the interested candidates.

Template 10

For strategy mission implementation, the defense team can utilize this professionally designed military PowerPoint template. To have a clear organizational mission for everyone to function at the highest level, employ this splendid looking military PowerPoint theme. Seminars regarding military services can incorporate this ready-made army PPT theme.

Template 11

Highlight the training given to armed forces with the help of this striking military PowerPoint template. Moreover, the contents are also customizable to suit your needs. You can download this military PowerPoint background to highlight the formations made by our soldiers to fight against the enemies across the border. Training institute websites can employ this editable PowerPoint template.

Template 12

Honor the guardians of the sky with this ready-made armed forces PowerPoint template. Highlight the services offered by military forces to safeguard the borders with the help of this editable army PowerPoint theme. Military services and army recruitment campaigns can be communicated effectively with the assistance of this professionally designed PowerPoint background.

Template 13

Details of the command process in the military can be efficiently illustrated by utilizing this infographic military Powerpoint template. Download this infographic military PowerPoint theme to highlight the missions which are being relayed from one commander to another. In line with this editable PowerPoint layout, a proper command process can be ensured.

Template 14

The need for first aid kits can be emphasized with the help of this amazingly designed military PowerPoint template. Use this editable army PowerPoint background for seminars addressing the health care facilities at the military camps. Medical facilities can also be showcased by utilizing this high-quality PowerPoint template.

Template 15

Use this high-quality PowerPoint background to pay tribute to the martyrs. Incorporate this attractive military PowerPoint template into your history class to educate students about the armed forces. Blogs and websites illustrating the services of defense forces can download this aesthetically appealing military PowerPoint layout. Army and Military Templates can be showcased to honor the brave soldiers. 

Template 16

Show your appreciation for excelling troops by downloading this editable military PowerPoint template. Utilize this patriotic PowerPoint theme to build a website for NGOs, military, and army recruitment. Incorporate this visually appealing military PowerPoint background for military-related presentations in seminars and conferences.

Template 17

Introducing this pre-designed military PowerPoint template to mention the responsibilities and duties of the military officers. Utilize this ready-made army PowerPoint theme to showcase the accomplishments of defense forces. This military PowerPoint background can be used to elucidate the members' duties and line up. 

Template 18

Employ this attractive military PowerPoint theme to understand the structure of the airplane. This fully customizable army PowerPoint layout can be downloaded to serve your military-related websites and blogs. Jet construction companies can incorporate this editable PowerPoint layout.

Template 19

The department of defense is one of the most crucial sectors in maintaining national security. Download this editable military PowerPoint template to explain the role of the navy in safeguarding the coasts of a nation. Incorporate this striking military PowerPoint theme and discuss the responsibilities of our navy department effectively. 

Template 20

Military service and army recruitment campaigns can be addressed with this visually appealing PowerPoint theme. News related to armed forces can be communicated effectively by this pre-designed military PowerPoint layout. The training required for navy recruitment can be mentioned to encourage more candidates to choose the armed forces as their career .

Template 21

Sell products associated with the army camps, outside adventures by utilizing this editable military PowerPoint background. Websites related to military facilities can download this ready-made army PowerPoint theme. Army and Military templates can be used for informing about the details of camping.

Template 22

Emphasize the power of the defense department by incorporating this professionally designed military PowerPoint theme. Highlight the military resolutions with this editable military PowerPoint template. The stepwise military resolution can be communicated efficiently with this striking PowerPoint theme. 

Template 23

A military force is a large organization that follows an organized workflow. Elucidate the responsibilities with the help of our professionally designed military PowerPoint template. Military-related events can easily download this editable defense forces PowerPoint theme.

Template 24

Download this attention-grabbing military PowerPoint theme for a dedicated blog or website to share content appropriate for warfare. Seminars addressing the military services can incorporate this attractive military PowerPoint template. Commemorate the sacrifices of our soldiers by utilizing this military PowerPoint background for events such as Memorial Day. Army and Military Templates are useful for encouraging youth to opt for armed forces.

Template 25

Employ this visually appealing powerful template to educate students about the history of military forces. With this comprehensively designed military PowerPoint template, you can elaborate on the success stories of our martyrs. Download this stunning military PPT background for military-based websites.

Great men and women in the military have families of their own who they have to leave behind to defend their country and for the safety of citizens. Commemorate our army heroes with these Top 25 Army & Military PowerPoint Templates. 

Download these templates to keep the spirit high and strong!

Related posts:

• [Updated 2023] Top 25 Process Mapping PowerPoint Templates for Business Optimization
• 25 Best Banking and Finance PowerPoint Templates For Financial Experts
• [Updated 2023] Top 10 Sales and Marketing Google Slides Templates for Sure Shot Business Success
• Top 10 Free Marketing Google Slides Templates For Winning Business

Liked this blog? Please recommend us

Top 50 July 4 PowerPoint Templates to Wish America Happy Birthday!

[Updated 2023] Top 25 Cybersecurity PowerPoint Templates To Safeguard Technology 

Top 25 Music PowerPoint Templates To Uplift the Soul

[Updated 2023] Top 25 Investment Presentation PowerPoint Templates for a Secured Future

[Updated 2023] Top 25 Green Renewable Energy PowerPoint Templates for a Sustainable Coexistence

25 Best PowerPoint Slides for the Financial Services Industry to Win Clients

[Updated 2023] 30 Best Customer Service PowerPoint Templates For Success in Business

[Updated 2023] 50 Best Company Presentation Templates To Ace The Corporate Ladder

[Updated 2023] Top 25 Fitness and Exercise PowerPoint Templates For a Healthy Lifestyle

[Updated 2023] 25 Best Career Planning PPT Templates To Design Your Future

[Updated 2023] 25 Best PowerPoint Backgrounds for Church To Rekindle The Faith In God

40 Best Lego Blocks PowerPoint Templates To Unlock Your Hidden Talent

Shape Lives with Top 25 PowerPoint Backgrounds for School

Top 25 Drugs and Medicines PowerPoint Templates trusted by Medical Professionals

Top 25 Food & Agriculture PowerPoint Templates to Create Delicious Looking Presentations

[Updated 2023] Top 50 Cool Winter PowerPoint Templates to Bring on the Holiday Cheer

This form is protected by reCAPTCHA - the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Digital revolution powerpoint presentation slides

Sales funnel results presentation layouts

3d men joinning circular jigsaw puzzles ppt graphics icons

Business Strategic Planning Template For Organizations Powerpoint Presentation Slides

Future plan powerpoint template slide

Project Management Team Powerpoint Presentation Slides

Brand marketing powerpoint presentation slides

Launching a new service powerpoint presentation with slides go to market

Agenda powerpoint slide show

Four key metrics donut chart with percentage

Engineering and technology ppt inspiration example introduction continuous process improvement

Meet our team representing in circular format

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Rate the lesson plan, field trips, life of a soldier.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

• This program is FREE! 
• You must complete and submit the Field Trip Request Form  at least two weeks prior to your intended visitation date
• To see what dates are available, please visit our  online calendar
• If your school group exceeds 35 students, special arrangements may be required (i.e, group rotations and other logistics)
• Groups over 65 may require multiple days
• The viewing of our 35-minute film can be included in your field trip.

Lesson Plans

Last updated: November 30, 2023

Essay on Life of Soldiers for Students and Children

500 words on essay on life of soldiers for students and children.

Soldiers are one of the greatest assets of any country. They are the guardians of the nation and protect its citizens at all costs. Moreover, they are a very selfless lot who put the interest of the country above their personal interest. A soldier’s job is one of the toughest things to do in the world. They are supposed to fulfill challenging duties and possess exceptional qualities to become a great soldier. However, their lives are very tough. Nonetheless, they always fulfill their duties despite the hardships.

Duties of Soldiers

A country sleeps peacefully as the soldier performs its duties. The first and foremost duty of a soldier is to serve their country without any selfish motive. A person usually joins the army out of love for his motherland and to protect it. Even though they know they will have to face numerous problems, they still do so for their country.

Furthermore, a soldier safeguard’s the honour of his country. They do not step back in the face of adversaries instead they give there best. It does not matter if they have to give their life for the country, they are willing to do so happily. Besides, soldiers also have to be alert at all times. He is never off duty, whether he is sleeping or on the battlefield, he stays vigilant throughout.

Most importantly, a soldier’s duty is to maintain the peace and harmony of the country. He takes on the responsibility of ensuring a safe environment for all. In addition to guarding the border, they are also always there in case of emergencies. They learn how to handle every situation carefully whether it is a terrorist attack or natural calamity. In other words, the local authorities need them to bring the situation under control.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Challenges Faced by Soldiers

Being a soldier is not easy, in fact, it is one of the most challenging things to do. Their lives are full of hardships and challenges which no ordinary person can survive. Firstly, they spend a great deal of time away from their loved ones. It disturbs them emotionally and they do not even get any holidays. Even in festivals, they are busy safeguarding the nation.

Similarly, soldiers have to undergo rigorous training to become fit to fight battles. It becomes exhausting and physically challenging, but they still go on. To make it worse, they do not even get an adequate amount of supply to lead a normal life. Sometimes, the food rationing is low, the other times they get posted in remote areas without any signal.

Subsequently, they also have to make do in the harshest of weather conditions. It does not matter if it is scorching hot or chilling cold, they have to be out on the battlefield. Similarly, they do not even get enough bulletproof equipment which will keep them safe. Thus, we see what a challenging life our soldiers lead to protect their country.

Q.1 What are the duties of a soldier?

A.1 A soldier has many duties to perform. He has to work selflessly for the betterment of the country. They ensure that peace and harmony are maintained throughout the nation. Moreover, they also remain vigilant at all times and render help in case of emergency situations.

Q.2 What challenges do soldiers face?

A.2 A soldier has to face a lot of challenges in their lives. They separate from their family and spend most of their time away from them. Further, they undergo hard training to achieve success. Sometimes, they don’t even get enough supplies to make ends meet. Moreover, no matter the weather, they have to survive in rough situations.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

• American History
• Warfare History

This is What Life was Like for Soldiers of the Continental Army during the American Revolution

Despite what is shown on recruiting commercials, life in the army – in any army – is largely made up of long periods of boredom, with the days filled with seemingly senseless, mundane tasks performed at the direction of superiors. The Continental Army, which was formed initially from the New England militia units which encamped outside of Boston in April 1775, was no different. The men of which it was comprised were not professional soldiers, though many had combat experience from the French and Indian Wars, while many others were on their first bivouac. The lessons of camp management, sanitation, enforcement of discipline, chain of command, in short all of the trappings of forming, leading, feeding, clothing, supplying, and fighting the army needed to be learned.

When George Washington took command of the Army he learned that there was less than one half pound of gunpowder per man available in the Continental Army encampments, information which rendered him speechless for over thirty minutes, according to John Sullivan. He found encampments which were a hodge-podge of tents; enlisted men who refused to take orders from officers other than their own; a dearth of serviceable artillery; no commissary to speak of; and the fact that the entire army’s enlistments were up on the last day of 1775. From such a shambles it was up to the Virginian to create the Army which would continue in the field for the ensuing eight years. Here are some examples of what life was like for the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.

1. It was not an all-volunteer army as many believe

The militia units which responded during the Battles of Lexington and Concord and then established the encampments around Boston were from the New England colonies, and their individual towns and counties. In most cases, participation in the militia was mandatory for able bodied men from the ages of 15 up to 45. When Congress formed the Continental Army out of the militia already in place, it de facto conscripted the units around Boston. Congress also established quotas for each of the states to supply troops which would form the regiments of the Continental Army. When Washington arrived at Cambridge he found an army in name only. In truth, with some notable exceptions, it was for the most part an undisciplined mob.

The men were mostly bivouacked in tents, comfortable enough in the mild New England summer. Many of the militia companies were officered by men elected to their position, regardless of their level of military experience or lack thereof. The camps were for the most part laid out without regard to the requirements of sanitation, with latrines too near water supplies. Many of the men didn’t resort to the latrines at all, preferring to relieve themselves where they chose. Fighting, gambling, and drunkenness was common among the men, with their officers unable or unwilling to put a stop to it. The men of each state regarded those of other states with disdain, and sometimes outright enmity.

NEXT >>

2. The camps around Boston were only brought to order slowly

In the Continental Army encampments there was little to do between June of 1775, following the Battle of Bunker Hill, and the spring of the following year, largely because Washington lacked the artillery and the gunpowder to dislodge the British from Boston. Shooting was proscribed in the camps, but shooting contests occurred just outside their boundaries, enraging Washington and leading to some participants being drummed out of the army for disobedience. More units arrived from the colonies, well-clad and disciplined regiments from Delaware and Maryland; tough, rangy riflemen from Virginia under the command of Daniel Morgan, and a regiment of fisherman and sailors from Marblehead, which would play a significant in the coming campaigns.

As Washington wrote regulation after regulation, and frequently toured the camps to ensure his orders were being carried out, a semblance of military organization developed. The camps were arranged with laid out streets among the tents, with orders for the proper location of latrines and the requirement to fill them in and dig new facilities on a schedule. Orders for the proper identification of officers were prepared, as were orders requiring the men to follow the commands of all superior officers, not just those of the leaders of their own units. Regimentation appeared in the camps, with days scheduled for the purpose of training the men as well as occupying their time in fruitful activities.

<< Previous

3. The creation of a camp routine was paramount for Washington in the early days

Under Washington’s firm command, army routine began to settle on the Continental Army camps during the summer of 1775. The monotony of army life was a reflection of the triumph of Washington over the contentious nature of the troops he commanded. Reveille was established, usually at 6:30 and the men mustered under the eyes of their officers. With the army in camp there were three major activities to which the men could be assigned Monday through Saturday; manual labor in the camps (fatigue duty), manual labor building military fortifications or erecting batteries, or guard duty. Military drill, the seemingly endless back and forth marching on the parade ground was also a daily affair.

The main meal of the day was prepared and eaten at mid-afternoon. On paper the Continental Army was fed well, on the plate not so much so. Both the quantity and quality of the food was lacking for several years, due to a poor quartermaster corps of the army, and the proclivity of suppliers to offer short weights. Bread prepared for the afternoon meal, as well as any leftovers of meat or other food, was divided among the men and retained either for supper later, or breakfast the following day. The men cooked their food and messed with their squad, the same group with which they were quartered, and with which they marched on parade and worked alongside as they went about their duties.

4. The Continental Army was paid better than their British opponents, on paper

The Congress offered many inducements to men they wished to recruit into the ranks of the army, including the princely sum of over $6 dollars per month, which increased with advancement in rank, the promise of free land in the fertile lands west of the Ohio River, uniforms, shoes or boots, good food, a liberal alcohol allowance, usually rum or beer, and more. In reality few of these promises were kept. The Virginia riflemen who arrived in the camps during the summer of 1775 eschewed uniforms, preferring to remain in their hunting shirts and buckskins. Delaware and Maryland regiments arrived fully uniformed, though they lacked replacements for those items which naturally wore out with heavy use.

Officially the uniform coat of the Continental soldier was designated by Congress as brown, with buff facings, not the blue uniform so often depicted in art and in motion pictures. Not until 1779 would Washington direct that the Continental Army coat be of blue cloth (the uniform color of the Virginia militia from whence he came), with the facings of a color which would denote their regiment. As the war went on, many Continental Army soldiers wore the red coats of the British or the dark blue or black of the German mercenaries, taken from prisoners or the dead of the battlefield, in lieu of no replacement coats being available from the commissaries. By 1782, when most of the fighting was over, the uniform for the Continental Army was finally standardized, though the army was still clad in many cases by whatever the soldiers could find.

5. Punishments in the Continental Army were often severe

George Washington, with the approval of the Continental Congress, installed the use of corporal punishment in the army, up to and including execution for some offenses. Striking an officer, inciting a mutiny, desertion, and cowardice in the face of the enemy could all be punished by either hanging or firing squad, most frequently hanging. For lesser offenses, such as sleeping on duty, theft, disobedience, fighting, gambling, drunkenness, or failing to use the latrines (called vaults in Washington’s parlance)soldiers could be and often were punished by whipping, delivered publicly as an example to the rest of the troops. As many as five hundred lashes could be administered for some offenses, given over a period of several weeks, or even months.

The list of offenses which were punished with public lashing was long. Often, to avoid a soldier being severely flogged for what was a relatively minor offense, the non-commissioned officers – the sergeants and corporals – failed to report the crime to their officers and took it upon themselves to administer punishments, usually extra guard duty or the hated duty of filling in latrines and digging new vaults to replace them. In that manner, as in the manner of all armies throughout history, the non-commissioned officers were the lynchpin which held the army together. Officers were not subject to flogging regardless of the offense, though they could be made to suffer capital punishment. Officers were usually cashiered and drummed out of the camps in disgrace, the loss of honor then considered a greater punishment than death.

6 Life on the march was tiring and arduous

One of the earliest non-New England units to join the Continental Army outside of Boston was Daniel Morgan’s Riflemen, Virginia marksmen armed with Pennsylvania long rifles. They were recruited from around Winchester, Virginia in the summer of 1775. The initial detachment of just under one hundred men left Winchester on July 14, arriving in Cambridge on August 6, having marched 600 miles across mountainous terrain and poor roads in three weeks, without the loss of a single man. The Continental Army would sometimes move by Durham boats operated by the Marblehead Regiment, as before the Battle of Trenton, or by flat-bottomed boats known as bateaux, as during the assault up the Kennebec River to attack Quebec, but most of the time when it moved it did so on its feet.

While marching the soldier carried most if not all of his personal equipment, which included his musket, ammunition, a bayonet if he was so fortunate to be equipped with one, a haversack in which he carried any spare clothing which he possessed, a blanket, personal items such as a knife and spoon (few had forks), a razor, tobacco if he was so inclined, and any other personal possessions. Few carried any money, as hard money was scarce and Continental paper money was so inflated to be for the most part useless. As with any army some carried contraband as well, playing cards, flasks of rum, food foraged on the march, and the favorite gambling device of the Continental soldier, dice.

7. By the end of 1776 the Continental Army almost ceased to exist

In the early years of the war American soldiers enlisted for a term of one year. The approach of the Christmas holiday and the end of the year meant for Washington that his army was about to dissolve due to expiring enlistments. The year 1776 was one of a series of defeats for the Americans, with the gains achieved in Canada the preceding year wiped out by ill-supply and British-Canadian counterattacks, and the main army under Washington defeated in New York. As the Americans retreated across New Jersey morale among the men plummeted. By the time Washington reached the relative safety of Pennsylvania, with the Delaware River between his men and pursuit, most of the troops were determined to go home.

Washington appealed personally to the regiments, thanking them for enduring the travails of the preceding campaign and asking them to remain for an extra six weeks in a last ditch attempt to prevent his army from dissolving at the end of 1776. The men regarded their crumbling footwear, tattered clothing, bad food, and the months of constant defeat as they considered their commander’s words. At the end, some agreed to stay; they were the troops which won the Battle of Trenton at the end of 1776, and the Battle of Princeton in the first week of 1777, victories which saved the Revolution. Other men did not, trekking home on their own as 1777 began. One such man was a New England patriot named Joseph Plumb Martin.

9. Joseph Plumb Martin kept a diary recording his experiences in the war

Joseph Plumb Martin was a member of the Connecticut Militia who served with that unit in the New York campaign of 1776, present at the defeat of the Americans at the Battle of Long Island. Martin recorded the events of the retreat of the American army, its dramatic escape from entrapment on Long Island and its withdrawal up Manhattan, including his own actions at the Battle of White Plains, part of Washington’s fighting retreat. As the army’s retreat continued across New Jersey, pursued by the energetic British and Hessian advance units, Martin kept a record of the privations suffered by his unit and others. Martin also recorded Washington’s pleas to the men to remain with the army.

Though Martin recorded Washington’s dilemma and his efforts to retain the steadily shrinking army, he did not heed them. At the end of 1776, his enlistment up, Martin left the army and returned home to Connecticut, thus missing Washington’s successful campaign in New Jersey. After recovering from his travails over the winter, Martin rejoined the Continental Army in the spring of 1777, this time enlisting for the duration of the war. Much of the remainder of the Revolutionary war is recorded in his diary, which be published years later. The manuscript remains in print in the 21 st century, an invaluable record for scholars and historians studying the war and its impact on both those who served in the Continental army and those who did not.

10. The Continental troops received medical care which included inoculation from smallpox

George Washington contracted smallpox in his youth, and after recovering carried some pock marks on his face for the rest of his life. He was lucky, or perhaps it was his overall good health and physical fitness which allowed him to survive a disease which was as often as not fatal. For the remainder of his life he was intrigued with the process of inoculation through which the disease was avoided. Following his victories at Trenton and Princeton, Washington led his army into winter quarters at Morristown, New Jersey, near enough to New York City to keep a wary eye on his British adversaries, but far enough away to be protected from surprise attacks. While at Morristown he took on another enemy.

During the Revolutionary War one of nine fatalities suffered by the Continental Army was due to combat. The rest were from disease and accidents. Washington was determined to eradicate smallpox from his army, and during the winter encampment of 1776-77 he took action to do so, having the troops under his command inoculated from the disease, extending the campaign against smallpox to the local population. His order, issued on January 6, 1777, extended mandatory inoculation against smallpox to all new recruits (unless they could prove they had previously contracted the disease) and for the first time American fighting men faced mandatory “shots” as part of their induction into the service.

11. The winter encampments were not times of rest for the troops

Eighteenth century armies did not, for the most part, engage in campaigning during the winter. There was little food available for foraging parties to feed an army on the march, roads became impassable, and living in bivouacs was brutal. Small raiding parties from either side harassed their enemies, but for most of the troops the winter was spent in encampments, in wooden huts on the part of the Americans, in confiscated civilian housing for the British and Hessians in and around New York (or Philadelphia in 1778-79). Washington based most of his army at Morristown, New Jersey, during the winters, using Valley Forge in Pennsylvania but once, the winter during which the British occupied Philadelphia.

During the winter of 1776-77, at Morristown, Washington inoculated his army in stages (since the process induced a mild case of smallpox, rendering the troops too ill to serve), and kept the operation secret to ensure the British would not move against his weakened army. Congress wasn’t informed of the process for over a month, an indication of Washington’s attitude over that body’s ability to keep a secret. Later winter encampments were periods of extensive military drill, during which the army learned a new manual of arms. Soldiers in the encampments were forced to follow the same routine as those of the summer, fatigue duty, guard duty, drilling, and foraging, regardless of the harshness of the weather or the low quality of shelter and food.

12. The winter at Morristown in 1779-80 was worse than that remembered at Valley Forge

The hard winter endured by the Continental Army at Morristown in 1779-80 was one of the coldest winters on record in the United States, with over two dozen measurable snowfalls, including a January blizzard which dumped more than four feet of snow on the encampment. The enduring cold ensured that the snow remained for weeks. The troops struggled through the snow and ice as they went about their routine duties, wrapped in thin blankets when they had them. The wooden huts in which they lived were drafty, chill, and damp. Food supplies were scarce, and when food was available it was often unable to deliver it to the camps, hindered by roads made impassable by the weather.

Washington informed Congress that at times his men were, “5 or Six days together without bread, at other times as many days without meat” and that there were periods when there was no food at all for the troops. As the army lost men to desertion and disease, it was reduced from the approximately 12,000 who entered the encampment to about 8,000, and Washington reported more than a third were too sick for duty. The harvest in the region had followed a drought that summer, and the reduced crops were insufficient to support the number of men encamped, even had local farmers been willing to sell to the Continentals. Most were not. Washington later said that the army at Morristown had “never experienced a like extremity at any period of the War”.

13. The disparate units became an army at Valley Forge

During the winter of 1778-79 the Continental Army in name became an army in standing through the intercession of Baron Wilhelm von Steuben, a Prussian officer of questionable past sent by Benjamin Franklin to Washington’s staff. Von Steuben wrote a new manual of arms, several steps shorter than that of the British which had theretofore been practiced by the Americans. He then presented it to a temporarily created unit of non-commissioned officers, who in turn presented it to their units. By late winter the Continental Army could load and fire their muskets at a speed which exceeded that of British regulars, and could march and countermarch with military precision.

Von Steuben could speak little English, and he relied on both German and French interpreters to deliver his messages to the troops, often directing his interpreters to swear at the men for him. Von Steuben installed even stricter discipline upon the troops, though he took the unusual step of explaining why it was necessary, and the troops responded with a willingness to learn. The volunteers and militiamen became, for the first time in the Continental Army, soldiers who could understand and follow orders with alacrity. By the time the army was ready to depart Valley Forge in the spring of 1779, von Steuben had created an army which could stand firmly against the British, as it did at the Battle of Monmouth in June, 1779, the last major battle of the northern campaign during the Revolutionary War.

14. The Battle of Stony Point demonstrated to the British that the Continental soldier was their match

Following the Battle of Monmouth Court House, where the Continental Army attacked the British rear guard as they withdrew from Philadelphia to New York, the British mainly remained inside their fortifications in and around New York City. As British attention shifted to the southern states, Washington and his army established bases of their own near New York and along the Hudson River. His troops continued to train within their bases, and training camps for new recruits were established in New England, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Virginia. Enlistments were for three years or the duration of the war, whichever came first.

In July, Washington decided to test the mettle of his troops in a daring attack on the British fortifications at Stony Point, on the Hudson River thirty miles north of New York City. The attack was led by General Anthony Wayne, with about 1300 men armed only with the bayonet. A secondary attack was conducted by normally armed troops as a diversion. On the night of July 15 the Continentals moved into position and early the following morning, under the cover of pre-dawn darkness, the British fortifications were carried and over 500 British troops were taken prisoner. By that afternoon British commanders in New York were faced with the realization that Washington now commanded an army of troops which were professionals, equal to the best of the British regiments.

15. The shift of the war to the south brought about a repeat there of the early days of the war in the north

With the Continental Army demonstrating that it could stand against the British in the open field, and with the growing influx of French supplies and troops, the British Army shifted its attention to the southern colonies, where there were few Continental troops and there existed a large number of militant Loyalists. The British held Savannah from 1778 and the two main Continental armies in the south suffered defeats in 1780, at Camden under Horatio Gates, though the main body of the troops escaped; and at Charleston the same year, when Benjamin Lincoln was forced to surrender the city to British army and navy units. Lincoln surrendered 5,500 Continental troops and supporting militia.

It was the largest surrender of American troops until the Confederates under Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant in 1865. The approximately 2,500 Continental Army regulars captured were for the most part housed in prison ships in Charleston and New York, where they endured conditions worse than any they had endured during their service in the war to that time. With the surrender of Charleston and the defeat at Camden, there existed no viable Continental Army presence in the American south, and those in Virginia were scattered and for the most part untested. The war in the south continued as a guerrilla war, one of considerable ferocity and violence, and tried and tested Continental regulars were shifted to the theater.

16. The Continental troops in the south faced almost daily forced marches

After Washington sent General Nathaniel Greene to command the southern contingent of the Continental Army, Greene in turn split his forces, sending a wing under Daniel Morgan to deal with the raiding British under Banastre Tarleton. Tarleton’s wing was crushed by the American force of Continentals and militia at the Battle of Cowpens in early 1781. The southern campaign became one of speed, with the British under Earl Cornwallis attempting to engage one or other of the wings of the American army before they could reunite. Failing in that after being checked by Greene at Guildford Court House, the campaign became a race to Virginia, from where the American units were supplied.

Both before and after the Battle of Guildford Courthouse the campaign was one of forced marches, battle, withdrawal, and another forced march to a defensible position. “We fight, get beat, rise, and fight again”, Greene wrote to Washington. Washington sent additional troops who faced the same daily conditions as Greene, forced marches in the blazing heat of the Carolinas in summer, cold, damp nights and days in the winter, the enduring problems with lack of food. The terrain was swamps, or thick woods with entangled underbrush, and poor roads, made worse by clouds of mosquitos and other pestilence biting exposed flesh. The British regulars endured the same conditions, with their morale steadily declining as they approached Virginia.

17. The regulations written by Baron von Steuben transformed the Continental soldier

Von Steuben’s Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States , which described in detail how the men of the Continental Army should conduct themselves on the march and in battle, also contained detailed descriptions of how the army should establish and maintain encampments. Von Steuben ensured that the soldiers in camp, under the supervision of their officers and non-commissioned officers, took steps necessary to the preservation of health and hygiene. He directed that in clear weather tents be struck daily, with the bedding within well aired. He forbade the consumption of meals inside of tents, except during inclement weather. Under von Steuben, the company mess tent came into being.

The training provided by von Steuben is usually described as being mainly directed at the men in the ranks, but in fact he provided training as well on how officers should both lead their men and preserve their health and welfare. “The oftener the soldiers are under the inspection of their officers the better”, he wrote, “…see that their clothes are whole and put on properly; their hands and faces washed clean; their hair combed; their accoutrements properly fixed, and every article about them in the greatest order”. Von Steuben’s concern with cleanliness extended to camp and soldier, and many men who had bathed infrequently, if at all, were admonished that, “the men shall bathe themselves as frequently as possible”, though he recommended a period of repose first to allow the men “to get cool”.

18. The Continental soldier responded to the beat of a different drum

The soldiers of the Continental Army responded, on the march, in battle, and in camp, to signals made to the regiments by drums. Even the call for recruits in towns and villages was often preceded by a drummer to gain the attention of the residents. Drum calls beaten in camp were also used in battle, though with different meanings. A drum signal which in the field called for a parley with the enemy was used in camp as a call for church services, for example. Fatigue parties were called forth through a drum signal. The day began with the beating of reveille, calling forth the troops from their tents or huts, and ended with the tattoo, which directed the troops back in their tents, where unless they had duty they were to remain until morning, other than answering calls of nature.

There were specific drum calls telling the companies to gather firewood, to gather water, and to assemble for provisions, the latter being called roast beef by von Steuben, somewhat ironically since meat was frequently absent from the provisions. When meat was available it was often pickled in salt, either beef or pork, and in the summer months the heavily salted diet contributed to the considerable thirst the Continental soldier suffered on the march. Drinking on the march from one’s own canteen was not permitted except during rest breaks, which were also signified by drums. Troops who indulged in the habit of tobacco were allowed to consume the product either by smoking a pipe or chewing. Since matches had yet to be invented, pipe smoking on the march was rare.

19. The Continental soldier was subject to fines despite infrequently being paid

By 1780 von Steuben’s regulations were in effect in all of the encampments of the Continental Army, though their efficiency was reliant on the ability of the officers imposing them. French supplied equipment, especially in the areas of arms and clothing, were becoming more readily available, at least to the main army under Washington, which was in encampments and fortifications around New York. The French maintained their main base in the United States at Newport, Rhode Island, and supplies passed between the armies both across Connecticut and along the coast line, protected by the French Navy and coastal forts.

The supplies issued to the troops were expected to be maintained properly, and marked with the initials of the owner as a deterrent to theft. Items which were missing at morning inspections were to be replaced, but the soldier who had lost the item was fined. Since the soldiers had no money to pay the fine because pay was irregularly distributed at best, the fine was entered into the books as a stoppage of pay for the amount of the fine. Losing a musket flint cost the soldier one twentieth of a dollar, loss of the musket itself resulted in a stoppage of fifteen dollars, over two months of a private’s pay. Losses of equipment due to lack of proper care on the part of the soldier responsible could also make him liable to military discipline.

20. The Continental Army also provided written instructions individually to men of all ranks

By the time of the Franco-American victory at Yorktown, which effectively ended the hostilities of the Revolutionary War, the soldiers known as Continentals were members of a professionally officered army, with written instructions (by von Steuben) as to how they should comport themselves at all times. Since a significant portion of the Continental Army was unable to read, the instructions were read to them by an officer or non-commissioned officer. A soldier was instructed to “dress himself with a soldier like air”, and to “wash his linen and cook his provisions”. They were instructed to “acquaint himself with the usual beats and signals of the drum, and instantly obey them”.

The Continental Army began disbanding before the British evacuated New York, but enough regiments remained in place along the Hudson River for the Army to be led by the only commander it had throughout its existence, George Washington, into New York on November 25, 1783. Efforts by the troops to obtain their back pay and other promised inducements met varying levels of success. In 1818 Joseph Plumb Martin applied for a war pension for his service during the Revolutionary War and succeeding in obtaining a pension of $96 per year (about $1,800 in 2018). His service with the Continental Army had included the Battles of Long Island, Harlem Heights, Germantown, Monmouth Court House, and Yorktown, as well as others during the war. Only at Yorktown had he seen the Continental Army clearly prevail.

Where do we find this stuff? Here are our sources:

“The Gunpowder Shortage”. Jimmy Dick, Journal of the American Revolution. September 9, 2013″

“The Siege of Boston”. Donald Barr Chidsey. 1966

“The Continental Army”. Robert K. Wright, Center of Military History, U.S. Army. 1983. Online

“General George Washington: A Military Life”. Edward G. Lengel. 2005

“Supplying Washington’s Army”. Erna Risch, Center of Military History, U.S. Army. 1981. Online

“Rebels and Redcoats: The American Revolution Through the Eyes of Those who Fought and Lived it”. Edited by Hugh F. Rankin. 1987

“Washington takes command of Continental Army in 1775”. Article, Center of Military History, U.S. Army. June 5, 2014. Online

“Revolutionary Rangers: Daniel Morgan’s Riflemen and their Role on the Northern Frontier”. Richard B. LaCrosse Jr. 2002

“1776”. David McCullough. 2005

“A Narrative of a Revolutionary War Soldier: Some of the Adventures, Dangers, and Sufferings of Joseph Plumb Martin” . Joseph Plumb Martin.

“Washington Inoculates an Army: The Continental Army Battles an Invisible Foe”. Article, American Battlefield Trust. Online

“Frequently Asked Questions: Morristown National Historical Park”. National Park Service. Online

“The Magnificent Fraud”. Thomas Fleming, American Heritage Magazine. February/March 2006

“Battle of Stony Point”. Michael J. F. Sheehan, George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Online

“The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution”. Cowpens National Battlefield. National Park Service. Online

“The Southern Theater of the American Revolution 1775-1783”. Article, American Battlefield Trust. Online

“Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States”. Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben. 1794 edition.

“Outfitting an American Revolutionary Soldier”. J. Lloyd Durham, Tar Heel Junior Historian. Fall 1992

“Voice of the Common American Soldier: Joseph Plumb Martin”. Article, American Battlefield Trust. Online

• Subscribe Now (Opens in new window)
• Your Air Force
• Pentagon & Congress
• Army Times (Opens in new window)
• Marine Corps Times (Opens in new window)
• Navy Times (Opens in new window)
• Defense News (Opens in new window)
• Flashpoints
• Benefits Guide (Opens in new window)
• Military Pay Center
• Military Retirement
• VA Loan Center (Opens in new window)
• Military Benefits
• Discount Depot
• Military Culture
• Military Fitness
• Gear Scout (Opens in new window)
• Military Movies & Video Games
• Military Sports
• Transition Guide (Opens in new window)
• Military History
• Black Military History (Opens in new window)
• Congressional Veterans Caucus (Opens in new window)
• Military Appreciation Month (Opens in new window)
• Vietnam Vets & Rolling Thunder (Opens in new window)
• Hall of Valor (Opens in new window)
• Service Members of the Year (Opens in new window)
• Create an Obituary (Opens in new window)
• Pay It Forward (Opens in new window)
• Medals & Misfires
• Installation Guide (Opens in new window)
• Battle Bracket
• Task Force Violent
• CFC Givers Guide
• Photo Galleries
• Early Bird Brief
• Long-Term Care Partners
• Navy Federal
• Newsletters (Opens in new window)
• Digital Edition (Opens in new window)

Serving the Greatest Nation: Reflections of a Soldier for Life

By: Robert Hastings

As the sun rises on June 14, 2024, marking the 249th birthday of the United States Army, I find myself reflecting on my four decades of military service to this great nation. From dusty training grounds to foreign battlefields to disaster relief and homeland security missions, I’ve witnessed the resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of the American Soldier. But what does it truly mean to serve the greatest nation and its people?

General Douglas MacArthur once said, “The Soldier, above all other people, prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.” These words resonate deeply with those who have worn the cloth of our nation. We understand the cost of conflict, the physical and emotional toll it exacts. Yet, paradoxically, we embrace our duty to protect and defend, even when war is our necessary duty.

While I didn’t attend West Point – I’m an Officer Candidate School mustang myself – I recognize how the West Point motto “Duty, Honor, Country” echoes through time. These three words encapsulate our purpose as Soldiers. Duty calls us to stand guard, to face danger head-on, and to safeguard liberty. Honor demands integrity, loyalty, and selflessness. And country, the very soil we defend, binds us together in a shared purpose.

Our nation today grapples with political divisions that seem insurmountable. The chasm between ideologies widens, and vitriol fills the airwaves. Fueled by election cycles, partisan media and deliberate disinformation aimed at our populace, it sometimes feels like our better days are behind us. The most horrible of words – civil war – have become normalized. Yet, as I reflect on my service, I realize that what unites us remains stronger than what divides us, and that the future of our nation, our people and our way of life is secure.

Across these dividing lines, Americans still hold shared convictions, love of family, pride in our heritage, and a desire for a better future. Americans respect the principle that justice should be impartial, regardless of ethnic, social or financial background, and in the presumption of innocence. We believe in individual liberty, and cherish our unalienable rights to free speech, religion, and assembly. Americans are a resilient people, who come together to overcome personal challenges and national crises. We are a generous, kind and caring people, who are known around the globe for our compassion. And yes, Americans are still in our hearts patriotic, even when we disagree among ourselves and with our government.

These threads of unity weave through our diverse tapestry and strengthen the very fabric of American society.

I am proud that I responded to a noble calling from a noble nation. While I am often thanked for my service, it has always been my privilege to serve a nation worth serving.

Old Soldiers may fade away, but their legacy endures. Soldiers – along with our brothers and sisters across the Armed Forces – are the highest development of citizenship – offering their lives for their country.

So, on this Army birthday, I salute my fellow soldiers, past and present. We serve not only a nation but an idea; an aspiration that transcends politics and binds us as one. May our shared purpose continue to light the way, reminding us that, despite our differences, we are united by duty, honor, and love for the greatest nation on earth.

About the Author

Robert T. Hastings is the Principal, Robert Hastings & Associates , a leadership and communications consultancy focused on the aerospace, defense, and mobility sectors. As a veteran C-Suite advisor, Hastings is a proven leader, business executive, strategic communicator, author and veterans advocate with a track record of success spanning a forty-year multifaceted career in military, corporate leadership, and public service.

A decorated combat helicopter pilot, Mr. Hastings is a retired Brigadier General from the Texas Military Department who successfully commanded U.S. Army and state military units from platoon to brigade level, completing more than 40 years total military service.

Mr. Hastings served in the Administration of President George W. Bush as Principal Deputy/Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, where he was the principal advisor to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Defense and senior Administration officials for strategic communication, public information, and internal information, leading a worldwide public affairs community of some 4000 military and civilian personnel.

In his civilian career, Hastings is an award-winning business executive who has successfully led the communications, marketing and government affairs teams for several Fortune 100 corporations.

The Hard Life of Soldiers

Dec 20, 2019

50 likes | 89 Views

The Hard Life of Soldiers. Both sides, soldiers were mostly under the age of 21. Soldiers drilled and marched for long hours. They slept on the ground, in tents, even in rain and snow. In most battles, one fourth (25%) or more of the soldiers were killed or wounded.

Share Presentation

Presentation Transcript

The Hard Life of Soldiers • Both sides, soldiers were mostly under the age of 21. • Soldiers drilled and marched for long hours. • They slept on the ground, in tents, even in rain and snow. • In most battles, one fourth (25%) or more of the soldiers were killed or wounded.

Sick and Wounded Faced Horrors • Surgeons routinely cut off injured arms and legs. • Minor wounds often became infected. • No medicine to fight infections, thousands of wounded died. • Diseases like pneumonia and malaria killed more men than guns or canons did! • Many died in prison camps from disease or starvation.

Your Task • Write a letter to mom, dad, brother, sister, friend, or any loved one, explaining the conditions of life as a civil war soldier • Use specific examples from your notes, as well as what you saw in the movie Glory. • Be creative! Use your imagination! • Write at least one page.

• More by User

Soldiers of the High Middle Ages

Soldiers of the High Middle Ages. Foot soldiers from 11 th century Life of St. Aubin of Angers (note that the peasant levy is commanded by a knight in armor) . Evolution of Armor, c.1066-c.1250 clockwise from upper left corner: late 11 th c, mid 12 th c, mid 13 th.

557 views • 12 slides

Soldiers of the DDR

846 views • 25 slides

Female soldiers of the world

Female soldiers of the world. Brazil. Iran. No Comment !.

498 views • 36 slides

The Soldiers’ War

The Soldiers’ War. Conditions Disease Medical care U. S. Sanitary Commission/U. S. Christian Commission Tactics and Technology Hardee’s “Rifle and Light Infantry Tactics” Line versus column. The Soldiers’ War: A Gallery. Hardtack and pipe. Home Sweet Home.

364 views • 25 slides

Soldiers of the Cross

Soldiers of the Cross. Marching Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Soldiers of the Cross. Our Walk

339 views • 9 slides

The legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers

The legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers. 10 th Cav. Montana. Who were the Buffalo Soldiers?. “Buffalo Soldiers” A letter in 1872 references black troops as “buffalo soldiers” Named out of respect for the “Courage of the buffalo”. History of the Buffalo Soldiers. 1792

1.56k views • 23 slides

Soldiers of the Golan Heights

Israeli soldiers from the Golani Brigade train near the ceasefire line between Israel and Syria on the Israeli occupied Golan Heights.

306 views • 17 slides

Soldiers of the Cross. Hebrews 8:4,5 New King James Version

420 views • 32 slides

Soldiers Of Christ

Soldiers Of Christ. “Soldiers of Christ, arise , And put your armor on, Strong in the strength which God supplies , Through His eternal Son ;. Strong in the Lord of Hosts , And in His mighty pow'r , Who in the strength of Jesus trusts, Is more than conqueror .”. Text: II Tim. 2:3-4

618 views • 20 slides

THE COURAGE OF SOLDIERS

presented by Chau Ly. to cane. THE COURAGE OF SOLDIERS. pious. wrath. Pauline Nguyen from ‘Growing up Asian in Australia ’. cabramatta. emaciated. to cane. THE COURAGE OF SOLDIERS. pious. wrath. (v.) - to hit with a stick. cabramatta. emaciated. THE COURAGE OF SOLDIERS. pious.

1.02k views • 15 slides

Soldiers of Christ Arise

Soldiers of Christ Arise. Soldiers of Christ Arise. The Bible talks about being a soldier…. Soldiers of Christ Arise. The Bible talks about being a soldier…. 2 Timothy 2:3 “You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”. Soldiers of Christ Arise.

523 views • 37 slides

The Inuit life was a hard one.

437 views • 14 slides

Life is Hard

Life is Hard. Life is Hard…. Life is Hard… Then You Die. Life is Hard… Then You Die…. Our Living Hope. 1 Peter 1:3-5. 1 Peter 1:3-5 Our Living Hope. God has shown us His great mercy God has raised Jesus Christ from the dead God has given us a secure future. 1 Peter 1:3-5.

744 views • 35 slides

Child soldiers of the modern age

Child soldiers of the modern age. How to protect young hackers ? Buherátor – Dr. Csaba Krasznay. Dr. Krasznay Csaba. A katonai műszaki tudományok doktora Leading IT Security Expert of 2011 Regular speaker at conferences and universities

307 views • 18 slides

By : Juan . Soldiers. What do they do?.

206 views • 6 slides

Vietnam Combat Soldiers Life

Vietnam Combat Soldiers Life. By: Laura Bruemmer, Ryley McIntosh, and Allie Lucyk.

393 views • 22 slides

The equipment of soldiers during WWI

The equipment of soldiers during WWI. By: Alex Micsoniu and Taylor Robinson. Uniforms. Soldiers from the British Empire wore the 1902 Pattern Service Dress tunic and trousers. These were mostly colored in light brown, and offered zero protection.

179 views • 8 slides

Hard Rock life

Hard Rock life. By: Matthew Eaves, Jacob Burns, Michael Salazar. Igneous Rocks. This rock is formed by molten rock that hardens and cools. Igneous rock found in areas where there is volcanic activity. Metamorphic Rocks. This is a rock that forms deep underground from heat and pressure.

244 views • 9 slides

It’s a Hard Rock Life!

Rock Cycle. It’s a Hard Rock Life!. Alma Reyes , Madison Sorrells, Hannah Settle , Shelana Arif. Igneous. Facts: Near volcanos Formed by solidified molten rock Cools when reaches surface Examples: Granite Basalt. Metamorphic. Facts:

303 views • 13 slides

The Soldiers

Watershed Project. The Soldiers. Shayna Jones Melvin Mackey Darrel Ochoa Saqub Awan. Camp Objectives. Our objective is to determine how the people of New Jersey can have plenty of clean water. By using satellite images we can view the areas that generate the most runoff.

250 views • 14 slides

Abduction of Israeli Soldiers

Abduction of Israeli Soldiers. Hamas Attempt to Use Kidnapped Soldiers as Bargaining Chips. Abduction of IDF Soldiers. The Latest News : Hamas renewed its threat to kidnap Israeli soldiers, on the Iz-A-Din Al Qassam (Hamas terorist wing), website, Dec. 8, 2002.

223 views • 8 slides

Soldiers. BY: Josue Lumba , Ashley Mejia, Silver Miller, and Karina Pineda. What was the unique contribution that Army Chief of Staff General George Marshall made to the United States war effort during World War ll?. Attended the Atlantic Charter Conference

596 views • 28 slides

• svg]:stroke-accent-900">

Army renames air defense system after Medal of Honor recipient

By Nicholas Slayton

Posted on Jun 15, 2024 10:40 PM EDT

3 minute read

In 1970, during the Vietnam War, Sgt. Mitchell William Stout, an air defense artillery soldier, gave his life saving his comrades from a grenade. For his actions he would be awarded the Medal of Honor. 54 years later, the U.S. Army paid a new tribute to Stout, renaming its air defense armored vehicle after him. 

The M-SHORAD Increment One is now the Sgt. Stout. The new name for the weapons system came on Saturday, June 15 as part of the Army’s celebrations for the service’s 249th birthday. The news was announced at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, with a Sgt. Stout bearing the name on display. Sgt. Maj. of the U.S. Army Michael R. Weimer conducted the unveiling, revealing the new name and saluting the vehicle. 

“Today, the @USArmy named our newest integrated air defense system, the M-SHORAD, after SGT Mitchell W. Stout,” Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth said in a post on X. “SGT [sic] Stout is the only Air Defense Artillery Soldier to earn the #MoH, sacrificing his life to protect his fellow Soldiers during the Vietnam war. The SGT STOUT detects, tracks and engages aerial threats & will protect our Soldiers, like its namesake, well into the future.”

The formerly named M-SHORAD Increment 1 (short for maneuver short-range air defense) is a modified Stryker vehicle, equipped with a radar system and several weapons including a Stinger missile launcher, designed to be used to intercept and repel artillery rounds, missiles, mortars and even aircraft before they can hit targets. 

Subscribe to Task & Purpose Today . Get the latest military news and culture in your inbox daily.

Sgt. Mitchell Stout never saw the vehicle that now bears his name. Born in February 1950 in Knoxville, Tennessee, he joined the Army at the age of 17. He was sent to Vietnam as an air defense artillery soldier, serving with Battery C, 1st Battalion, 44th Artillery. On March 12, 1970, his unit was attacked by North Vietnamese forces at Khe Gio Bridge. Their position was pounded mortars before enemy forces moved in. One North Vietnamese soldier threw a grenade into their bunker. 

“Displaying great courage, Sgt. Stout ran to the grenade, picked it up, and started out of the bunker. As he reached the door, the grenade exploded. By holding the grenade close to his body and shielding its blast, he protected his fellow soldiers in the bunker from further injury or death,” his Medal of Honor citation reads . “Sgt. Stout’s conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action, at the cost of his own life, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon him, his unit and the U.S. Army.”

Stout had only turned 20 years old weeks prior. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor four years later, by then-Vice President Gerald Ford. 

The Army currently operates the air defense vehicles in three battalions and plans to add hundreds more to service by 2031.  

The latest on Task & Purpose

• 82nd Airborne paratroopers cut down a 101st flag from an iconic bar on D-Day
• Navy fires USS Somerset’s commanding officer following investigation
• Two ex-U.S. soldiers met in Ukraine, then went on ‘international crime spree ’
• A combat controller earned a secret Air Force Cross for battle with Russian mercenaries
• Fort Moore renames five gates for battlefield heroes like Alwyn Cashe

Latest in Army

Soldiers missing from chosin reservoir and bataan identified for return home soldiers missing from chosin reservoir and bataan identified for return home.

By Joshua Skovlund

The 4th Infantry Division’s huge obstacle course looked like the zombie apocalypse The 4th Infantry Division’s huge obstacle course looked like the zombie apocalypse

Sign up for our newsletters.

The latest military news and entertainment delivered right to your inbox.

By signing up you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .

Watch CBS News

Vietnam War veteran comes out as gay in his obituary, reveals he will be buried next to "the love of my life"

By Li Cohen

June 14, 2024 / 7:55 AM EDT / CBS News

An Army veteran, firefighter and New York radio station founder says he'll "forever Rest in Peace" after revealing a lifelong "secret." In a message included in Col. Edward Thomas Ryan's obituary, he said, "I was Gay all my life." 

The obituary states that Ryan, who lived in Albany, New York, was a retired fireman, the owner and founder of radio station WHRL-FM, and a highly decorated veteran of the U.S. military. Along with receiving the National Defense Service Medal, the obituary says that he received a Defense of Liberty Medal for his assistance in the aftermath of the 9/11 attack, a Conspicuous Service Medal for "keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Service," and a Commanders Citation for "Service Above and Beyond the Call." 

Ryan, who had a business degree, was also a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America and served on the Vietnam Veterans/Agent Orange Committee for the American Legion. 

According to the Albany Times Union , Ryan was 85 when he died on June 1. His family told the Times Union that he served in Vietnam while he was in the Army, but they weren't sure of his years or ranks. 

At the bottom of his service and funeral details, Ryan provided his own message, saying, "I must tell you one more thing." 

"I was Gay all my life: thru grade school, thru High School, thru College, thru Life." 

He also revealed that he had been in a long-term "loving and caring relationship" with another man named Paul Cavagnaro. That relationship ended in a heartbreaking situation – but after death, Ryan said they will be reunited. 

"He was the love of my life. We had 25 great years together," Ryan wrote. "Paul died in 1994 from a medical Procedure gone wrong. I'll be buried next to Paul." 

After years of keeping his sexual identity hidden, Ryan apologized. 

"I'm sorry for not having the courage to come out as Gay. I was afraid of being ostracized: by Family, Friends, and CO-Workers," he wrote. "Seeing how people like me were created, I just could not do it. Now that my secret is known, I'll forever Rest in Peace." 

While Ryan didn't publicly come out before his death, his niece Linda Sargent told the Times Union that many in the family knew, but "it just wasn't something we talked about." 

"I knew probably 40 years. I knew [Cavagnaro] was his partner," Cathy Stammel told the Times Union. "They were a loving couple. I admired that," they said. "But I promised him I wouldn't say anything, and I kept that promise. It was up to him to talk about it when he was ready." 

Ryan's obituary has received wide support online, with people commenting on his digitized obituary, saying, "you were loved." 

"As a brother in arms, I salute you. As a brother in spirit, I embrace you. As a brother of the Holy Spirit, I kneel and pray for your eternal solace," one person commented. "To have found true love is priceless." 

Another commented an apology, saying they are "sorry that we as a country failed to make him feel safe enough to live his life fully and publicly." 

"May he rest in peace and Pride with Paul, and may his memory be a comfort to his family and a lesson to us all," they said. 

Li Cohen is a senior social media producer at CBS News. She previously wrote for amNewYork and The Seminole Tribune. She mainly covers climate, environmental and weather news.

More from CBS News

San Pablo nonprofit that helps low-income pet owners in need of new home

San Francisco Glide church reverend steps into role welcoming LGBTQ community

105-year-old dons cap and gown, gets overdue degree from Stanford

Richmond City Council decides whether to move forward with refinery tax measure

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

A Retired Army Colonel’s Obituary Shares a Secret: ‘I Was Gay All My Life’

Edward Thomas Ryan, who died at 85, wrote that he was “afraid of being ostracized.” The revelation set off a wave of online tributes.

By Sopan Deb

At first glance, Edward Thomas Ryan’s obituary, published in The Times Union of Albany, N.Y., seemed fairly straightforward.

It listed his survivors, including many nieces and nephews. It detailed his Army service in Vietnam. That he was a retired firefighter in his hometown, Rensselaer, N.Y. And that he was a co-founder of an Albany-based radio station.

But the end of his obituary, which ran on June 8, included a personal note from Mr. Ryan, who died on June 1 at 85 years old.

“I must tell you one more thing,” the obituary reads. “I was Gay all my life: thru grade school, thru High School, thru College, thru Life.”

Mr. Ryan went on to say that he had been in a “loving and caring relationship” with a man for 25 years. That man died in 1994, and the note said that Mr. Ryan would be buried next to him.

“I’m sorry for not having the courage to come out as Gay,” Mr. Ryan wrote. “I was afraid of being ostracized: by Family, Friends, and Co-Workers. Seeing how people like me were treated, I just could not do it.”

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .