I say a lot that I have the Army to thank for everything that I am and everything I’m not. That goes for my years in high school and college ROTC, basic training and AIT, my years in service, and my years as a milspouse.

Some might say I’m naive—not the right word—but I’m “taken” for sure, enamored with the overarching principle of selfless service that embodies today’s all-volunteer Army. They and their families are the best.

And since it’s National Military Family Month, I’d like to dedicate my own roll-up of lessons learned. This is for them:

Everything I learned, I learned from the military

Attitude adjustments are free

Be All You Can Be

Courage Candor Competence Commitment

Duty

Exceed, don’t just succeed

Fire and maneuver can be applied to marriage

Go or no-go—you’re one or the other

Honor

Integrity

Joint operations [required]

Know, don’t just think you know

Loyalty

Mental toughness

National pride

Observe your lane

Personal courage

Quitting is not an option

Respect

Selfless Service

Train as you fight

Uniformity [of character]

Volunteerism

Words mean things

XYZ, great OPSEC device (i.e. Camp XYZ)

If you have questions, ask. Some of these things are common, but others are obscure or personal.

If you’re interested in a story behind one or two, I won’t mind sharing.

Thanks to all who have contributed to my learning and continue to do so.