Tag: Combat

This is the 13th installment in the Honored Role Series.

Although Raven Bukowski’s late grandfather, Donald, never spoke about his experiences as a sergeant in the 3rd Infantry Division during World War II, his quiet patriotism and strength planted in her the seed to become a soldier. Raven knew only that her grandfather fought in Salerno, Italy and returned home with a Purple Heart.

This is the 11th installment in the weekly Honored Role Series.

One of the few constants in the Army is the importance of physical fitness: strength, power, and stamina. William Nash, a military historian, wrote “success and general efficiency of every military establishment is, in a very large degree, dependent upon the physical fitness, endurance, and condition of the individual units of which it is composed.”

Lt. Col. Jen Grzbek Buckner realized this early in her career. “Being able to run long and fast earns credibility and respect. It opens doors.” She explained. While technology has changed the larger picture of war, physical prowess remains a vital element of each solider’s effectiveness. Improvements in combat gear, weaponry, and communication systems support a soldier’s ability to fight nearly around the clock. Sustained periods on patrol or in a firefight require soldiers to be alert, energetic and enduring.