Today’s poll isn’t quite about RVing, but we know, from past polls, that many of you are veterans. So today we want to know: Did you ever physically serve in combat?
While RVing and military service may seem like two very different chapters in life, they often share common threads—discipline, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy.
Many veterans find RV travel to be a natural continuation of the self-reliance and camaraderie they experienced during their time in the service. Hitting the open road brings a special kind of peace, and for some, it’s a way to reconnect with the country they once served in uniform.
We’ve heard from readers who have parked their rigs at military campgrounds or simply shared stories around a campfire with fellow vets. And while this poll is just a yes-or-no question, we recognize that behind each answer lies a lifetime of memories—some painful, some proud, and many complex.
This community has always been supportive and appreciative of our veterans. If you’re comfortable, we encourage you to share what your experience was like, or simply let others know you served. You never know who else in the RV park or on our website might quietly relate. Sometimes a single comment sparks a powerful connection.
And, most importantly, we thank you for your service!
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RVDT2881
26 years Blue Water U.S. Navy
Big Red One.
Wonder how many non-vets clicked on an answer, just to see the results.
Some of the polls had a button you could click on to see the results without voting. Where did that go?
Good morning, Impavid. The provider of that polling platform “updated” the program and apparently removed that feature. We’re checking to see if there’s any way to get it back. Have a great day. 😀 –Diane
While in Army @ Aberdeen Proving Grounds, my unit was called into duty during the Baltimore riots in ‘68. I ended my service 2 months later.
Yes, US Army, Combat Veteran, Purple Heart 💜 for wounded in action, Mekong Delta Jungle 1969. Activated 9/11 for 13 months duty at age 54 🇺🇸
No, joined Navy May 67 and after boot camp assigned to a destroyer escort that was reassigned to be a reserve training ship. Tried to volunteer several times but Captain rejected my request. The ship also was a stopping off point for sailors who came back from Vietnam. Some of these guys were deeply troubled and had PTSD. At that time, it didn’t have a name and after talking to them and trying to help them readjust I was thankful that I stayed stateside and was able to help these guys as much as I could, but a couple had major issues that were scary to witness.
I applaud all military personnel that saw combat and thank you for all your service.
Vietnam, 1965
While I served for 42 yrs, 7mos and 28 days in the ANG and USAF Reserve – I was not called for active service. I joined while in the 11th grade in HS at age 17 in 1953. My hat is off to all active veterans and especially to those who served in combat. Vietnam is perhaps the most notable and recent past conflict – although we will perhaps have additional in the coming days/weeks. God Bless you all and Thank You!
I didn’t serve directly in combat. However, I was on the front lines of drug enforcement on the high seas while in the Coast Guard.
Kudos to all of you that served in a combat zone. I, on the other hand, fought the Cold War.
Sat 5 minute air defense alert in Europe in the USAF in the F-4 in the mid 70s.
The Korean Conflict (yes, it was a conflict although it acted like a war) resulted in my being drafted eleven months out of high school on May 26, 1953, and discharged May 13, 1955. Toward the end of 16 week of combat basic training an armistice was signed. Nevertheless, everyone would be sent to Korea except I was one of twelve selected to go to Alaska. We of the infantry were based at what was then Ladd AFB to protect the base from Russian invasion. We received overseas pay which was miniscule because Alaska was a territory, not a state. It was interesting and at times difficult. I still have my 50 below zero card earned while out on maneuvers in Alaska. In the winter no sun at all.
Thank you to all who served. My BFF from high school is also a veteran with 10 years of service. She has several times been yelled at for parking in “reserved for veterans” parking. Please all remember that women are part of our armed forces. My son just retired after 20 years service, & my granddaughter who just graduated from Basic has been sent for Airborne training. My son was on the front lines for several deployments. I hope and pray my DGD doesn’t get sent to the front lines until she’s a little bit older. A 19 year old doesn’t have the same perception as someone at the age of 22 or 23 does.