Call and check on your military veterans before JODY enters the chat
Many veterans on active duty are currently standing the watch away from their significant others during the holiday season
You're Just A Baby Boy
In the summer of 2001, I was recruiting men and women for enlistment into the United States Navy in Los Angeles, CA. When film director John Singleton released “Baby Boy” into theatres the main character struck a chord with all veterans who are familiar with who the real “Jody” is.
I reported to my first ship as a BootCamp in Alameda, CA in February of 1994. The next day we set sail on a six-month deployment better known in the ranks as a “West Pac” short for Western Pacific tour. Six months away from your family and friends often during holidays.
The internet was created in April of 1993 thanks to Tim Berners-Lee. Email was an integral part of communicating with family and friends while deployed. Snail mail was also a major form of communication.
For married men and women who would deploy the name “Jody” was often brought up in chats. Upon return home from 6-month deployments, it was necessary to check for any tracks “Jody” may have left like his house slippers next to the bed.
Communication Matters
Nothing can strain a relationship more than a military deployment. One unfortunate Sailor received a package from his wife in the mail about halfway through a deployment. A VCR tape was enclosed.
Remember this was before you could easily share videos on social media platforms. Excited he was he popped in the tape with about a half dozen others watching. It was titled “FOR YOUR EYES ONLY.”
Reading is fundamental. Once the video began they saw his wife in their bedroom with Victoria’s Secret on, and “JODY” was lying on the bed! You can only imagine what happens next.
This Sailor left the office inside the ship and proceeded to the flight deck. Wanting to end the pain and suffering he just witnessed months before his eventual return home he jumped off the the ship into the Persian Gulf.
The Moral Of This Story
Check on your veterans who are deployed this holiday season. Dont, send no text or damn DM either. Dial their number and speak to them. Especially your married veterans. Many are deployed fighting battles inside their heads.
I missed many a birthday and holiday while deployed 6 times to the Persian Gulf. it comes with the territory. Staying in touch with family and friends helps soothe the absence, especially during the holiday season.
For the record “Jody” can even be hanging around when you're not deployed. That’s another story, however. The mythical “Jody” refers to a civilian who remains at home instead of joining the military service.
As a result, I could never watch “Baby Boy” the same again. Communication matters when it comes to veterans. Take a few minutes this holiday season and check in on them. It only costs your time. It could mean the difference between life and death.
