The Hardships of Military Initiation: A First-Hand Account and Perspective

Initiation into military life is often a rite of passage that can test the limits of new recruits. These experiences can vary widely, with some undergo painful and sometimes harmful hazing rituals that can be deeply concerning. In my own experience, I encountered a form of hazing that was both challenging and fraught with injustice, as I witnessed inherent racism play a significant role.

Understanding Military Hazing: A Broader Perspective

One of the most significant challenges for newcomers to the military is adapting to the intense and sometimes cruel initiation experiences. While some may view these rites as necessary for building camaraderie and discipline, they can result in long-lasting psychological and emotional scars. In my experience, certain individuals were subjected to more severe forms of hazing, a clear indication that the practicing units tolerated or even encouraged such behaviors.

The Challenges of Racial Injustice in the Military

During my service in the 84th regiment, an atmosphere of racial discrimination prevailed. This was not just a mere observation, but a daily reality that I witnessed and experienced firsthand. During key military ceremonies, such as the line-crossing rituals, these discriminatory actions became evident and were not exceptions. In these situations, individuals with darker skin tones faced an even harsher initiation, a situation that was not unique but the significant manifestation of a deeper systemic issue.

A Personal Experience: The Shock of Military Hazing

During my time in the 1977-1882 army, stationed in West Germany, I was a 17-year-old 'OD Green' and a newbie, unaware of the harsh realities that lay ahead. On my first winter guard shift, I was assigned to get a 'Left Hand Monkey Wrench' from the Motor Pool to Maintenance. After five trips covering the length of three city blocks, the 'grease monkeys' couldn't hold in their laughter, mocking my initial Greenness. This was just the start of a night that would test both my resolve and the harsh conditions of the military.

Assigned to maintenance in the field, I was sent out with wet, muddy conditions up to my thighs, a task that added physical and emotional strain to my already challenging start. When Maintenance told me they didn't have 'Collimator Numbers,' I was devastated as I knew the critical importance of this task. My frustration turned to rage when I was unknowingly caught up in the 'Old 1-6-1' scheme, where an old guard was manipulating the task checklist. This resulted in me carrying a heavy round of ammunition in the dark, exhausted and nearly blind from the mud.

Even in the face of such adversity, I learned to adapt, as I found a humorous and cathartic outlet through the shared experience with my buddies. However, the continuous psychological strain and the inherent racism I witnessed were deeply troubling. It was a stark reminder of the systemic issues within the military that I eventually felt the need to confront, as "karma" seemed to catch up, offering delightfully ironic outcomes to those who perpetuated these injustices.

Conclusion

The stories of hazing and the experiences within the military are a testament to the importance of addressing these issues. It is crucial that military leaders and institutions take proactive measures to ensure that all individuals are treated with respect and fairness. The fight against racism and unjust practices within the military should be a top priority to ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all service members.

Keywords

Military Hazing Racial Injustice Military Racism