Supporting Our Troops! 101

There are some reason why we Filipino's need to support our troops whether if they serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy or the Marines. The whole idea is the same with paying it forward as families, friends, and even the whole Filipino community need to acknowledge their hard work. 

They are brave men and women who serve in a true form of sacrifice to promote peace and community development. However, our troops are not immune as to being human. They feel lonely, homesick, even sad. In the light of our comfort, we can only give our support to boost their morale by simple means of showing how grateful we are. 


It is with us, Filipino stakeholders to take back and show that they are our nations' pride. 

If you had thought about doing this in the past but still freezing on with the idea because you lack the means to do it, have some time to read a few suggestions made by military families around the globe. 

1) Simple Courtesy. Meeting defense force personnel from other Southeast Asian countries and even in Australia seem like they are bad to the bones. Similarly, Filipino soldiers may seem to look tact, alert, strict, yet handsome (or snappy for that matter). They appreciate a simple courtesy of a greeting. "Good Morning Sir", "Nice weather Sir", "Thanks for serving us Sir". These words are simple but priceless. 

2) Print, Share, or Tag Photos or Videos. In our digital age, sharing seems to be as simple as clicking and hovering a computer's mouse over the screen where a lot of our troops now have social media accounts, it is simply better for them to receive hard copy of photos of family and friends especially to our troops designated in far-flung areas even in the disputed islands. Taking a video of their family at a school ceremonies, picnic or sports event seems like a chore but truth is, the hardest thing for our military is being separated from those they love. And with the snippets from home, they will love being able to see their family over and over.

3) Capture and Compile Memories. Capturing and compiling memories means staying our troops updated of what's going on with our lives. One good example is a soldier having been deployed after his wife delivered a baby, it will be a boost of morale when the soldier sees his child taking the first breastfeeding, first bathe, even if seeing the baby in the crib for the first time. 
4) Send Messages. As simple as sending in quotes, funny messages (which can make the days go faster), and greetings from the internet and compile them on a booklet or send them via SMS. 
5) Send in News Clippings, Pictures, etc. Sending them news clippings about the good things helps them know that their work is being noticed by the community.

6)  Radio Dedication, etc. If there's a detachment or a battalion in your local area, chances are that soldiers are tuned in. If you are a big fan of the military, why not try and dedicate some good songs to lift their spirits up.  

7) Buy them a Frisbee. One addictive game common to most defense personnel in the world is a game of Frisbee. They can have this game to play with their buddies and the kids in their local community.

8) Connect With Them. Showing interest with our troops and knowing how they live and what they do means that you are interested in knowing the importance of their job. Inviting them through speaking engagements at school for career orientation or leadership summits also helps them connect to the youth who have no idea what the military is all about. They are mostly ready to talk it out with students because the military helps in shaping a better youth that would become future leaders of the community.
If you are a member of an organization which helps promote community missions, soldiers are also interested in taking part of assisting you through these avenues. 

9) Join Social Clubs. Joining social clubs like "Proud to Be With Soldiers" or "Protectors of Philippine Sovereignty" can enlighten you with snippets and updates about our soldiers deployed in areas all over the country. There are also events such as donation drives for calamity stricken areas by which you could participate with.

10) Send the Books. Surprisingly, a population of our troops are bookworms. A fun and witty book available at the local bookshop with cliche titles such as "Bakit Hindi Ka Crush ng Crush Mo?", "The Best of Chico De Lama's Morning Rush Series", "Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin by Bob Ong" or "It Only Hurts When I Pee by RJ Ledesma". There are also seriously great and self-help books that are highly appreciated by our troops such as "Pera Na Hindi Bitin" or "Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren" etc.
or Send in Old Magazines. These reading materials are highly valued during deployment or in an assigned area, it can also be shared along with their buddies.

11) Church-Participation. If you are a member of church organizations such as Youth for Christ, or Every Nations Youth Ministry then be open on sharing the idea of praying for our people in the Armed Forces.  
12) Spend Time with the Family. If you have a family member or friend who is married to a soldier, a simple gesture of taking them out for a cup of coffee or sharing them a slice of cake can make a difference to their lives. A soldier will always have his peace of mind given that his family is coping well back home.
Be a role model to the children who's father are dispatched away from home. Tell them tales of why they became soldiers and show them how noble their job is.

13) Volunteering. If you are a nurse, try sharing your expertise about living healthy and basic medical care. If your a history geek, why not tap into the people inside the Philippine museums and seek if you can do the walk tours for visitors. You can also spend time packing relief aid in some relief centers. 
14) Organize Support Drive. Soldiers deployed in far-flung areas such as the disputed islands have no means of entertainment other than gardening and fishing. The places they stay are way beyond full access of all sorts of media. Why not tap into some people and try if you can send in stuff like books, magazines, old cassette tapes and cassette players, medical gear, old computer gear, etc. 

15) Create a Military Appreciation Day (or Soldier's Appreciation Day). Similar with Father's Day, Mother's Day, and Teacher's Day. Our troops deserve recognition of their sacrifice in serving peace around the Philippines whether they are on regular or reserve duty. Normally, Filipino Veteran's along with U.S. Veterans celebrate November 11 as their recognition day. 

Lastly, Pay Your Taxes Well. The taxes being collected by the government are there for a reason. It pays the job served by our troops and improves their survivability by improving their skills and machines. The taxes we pay grants them further studies, fuels the trucks to go far-flung areas, and respond to rescue operations. More so, our taxes are being used well because they are paying their life service in return. 

These are just a few examples of how we can help support our troops. Post below if you have any further ideas to share.

© iamreservist

Photo Stories: Arroz Caldo at Regalo para sa Pasko 2012

Our regular soldiers in Bukidnon were on a task to bring the spirit of Christmas in a far-flung area somewhere in the western part of the province. With more than a hundred beneficiaries, our soldiers' are set to make them feel belonged, cared, and shared with the blessings given by our fellow citizens residing overseas. 

The season had provided me the opportunity to take a moment of forward step into experiencing Bayanihan. This is not just my story, it is also shared by the troops who took heart into showing an action of giving.

Our story starts here.
The sun was setting early that afternoon. The KM military truck we rode sped about 100k's, it was a rough-wild ride where a cloud of dust flew behind us. It felt like Dakar. Our destination had some distance from the city, as time passed by, the troops were becoming more observant and alert as the area we have been entering becomes critical.
It was a relief upon arriving to a safe place of spending the night. The view gets spectacular as the sun sets, the air gets colder by the minute and silence means hearing yourself breath. 

In the morning after mess, it seems like an ordinary day for our troops. But before anything else, they need to spend a moment of briefing and thanksgiving.
Psalm 91 reminded us of a good promise, while hearing these soldiers' utter their own personal words is a heart-warming experience on a civilian's point-of-view. 
From the area where we spent the night, another hour was spent on the road. This time, we crossed rivers and other critically-technical terrain imaginable. Our journey of getting there proves to be quite a moment before handing these gifts we offer to our beneficiaries.

Somewhere in the middle of our journey, we stopped for some courtesy call. It took us quite a short talk until we were able to see the children who will be receiving a gift for Christmas. 

Along with this gift-giving, the troops also decided to prepare a sumptuous arroz caldo  (a Filipino-style congee) for the kids to enjoy.
PORTRAITS OF CHILDREN

When we reached our destination, I saw beautiful and innocent faces of  very young children. One soldier shouted from the truck, "Hali mo!" (Come here!), "Naa mi ihatag, pagdala ug baso!" (We have something to give, bring your cups with you).
I can't express it in my words. I just knew it from the moment I laid upon their eyes while seeing the gifts being unloaded from the truck. This is not the first time they saw soldiers in their place, but it is probably the first time they see soldiers carrying gifts wrapped in boxes.
In the field, I also had the chance know our troops better. Those who were with me obviously love to be around with children. One soldier played with a toddler while his mother was watching. It was undeniably a classic moment. While another soldier was caring for another toddler who held his hand towards the lens of my camera.
"A toddler grabbed the lens of my camera while I was taking a photo of her beside a soldier."


"A soldier's love is beyond comprehension."


Crowd control was almost north to impossible. But our soldiers are still positive in creating a friendly atmosphere. I see them smiling while assisting the children to stop pushing against each other.


In return, this kid calmed the chaos with his voice. He sang songs in his local dialect, gospel songs in bisaya, and even the famous "Sa Langit Wala ang Beer." 


While crowd control was being managed by the rest of the troops, the only lady soldier in the scene was also busy checking the Arroz Caldo. 



"Can't wait no more..."

The kids with their cups on their hand lined up to grab a taste of a deliciously prepared arroz caldo. 

It was still steaming hot despite the fact that our soldiers cooked this food as early as 3AM. 

The kids were purely in a surprise to see a young lady wearing a battle dress uniform. It is quite uncommon to see them working in the field. 
"Because the Arroz Caldo was steaming hot, responsible mothers were also there to assist their children receive a portion of their share... 
We are also blessed for their assistance"

It was wonderful to see this children smile over a cup of a local congee. My experience draws me back to the beauty of living a simple life.


"Serving with a smile draws this kids to smile back."

"This kid is patiently waiting for his share of arroz caldo."

"In the spirit of giving, our troops have only one desire, this is to see the children wearing their smiles. No amount can replace or repay this moment of being able to give them a bag of happiness."

"A young boy just had his big share of arroz caldo. He's sharing it to the rest of his siblings."


After being able to make the insides of our beneficiaries happy, we moved on to make their spirits lift with the blessings of Christmas. It's gift-giving time!

"Mother's who witnessed the giving stand in amazement as she sees a soldier handing out  toys this Christmas season."  

"An old woman probably receives the most magical looking head band of her life. Our soldiers helped her go back to being a child once again."

Along with the local leaders in the area, our soldiers exchanged hands in serving the people.   


"These are just a few children who benefited from the gift-giving. The others were still on their way from the mountain."

A kid and a soldier poses for his gift. Despite having a pink-colored shoe, he didn't bother for anything else. He's too excited wearing it when the class' resumes.

"This young miss received a pair of fancy shoes for Christmas. She poses with gladness beside a soldier."

The CAFGU and their families also received something for the season. They were given clothes, school supplies for their children, and home necessities such as bed sheets, warmers, etc. 
 
These parents who are part of the CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) received a gift for his young boy this Christmas season. His heart shrunk into gladness because his child was asking him a pair sneakers to be used for school... This time, he has one for the next year as classes will resume on January. 

"While infants and/or toddler's also received baby caps for Christmas."

 "These young family waiting to line up also shows how curious they are of what gifts are in store for them."

"Family - A CAFGU soldier is feeding his child"

 "Soldier Santa threw sweets for the kids to grab on the air."

 "The children now enjoying a piece of their Christmas presents with our troops..."

 "... And so they jumped for joy!"


Being able to share a moment with our Philippine Army soldiers serving in Bukidnon, I was able to know how they work and serve for the betterment of the province. It's not fair to judge them by the cover of their book, rather, you should try to read them in the pages of their service. 

I realized that they love to serve more than I was able to grasp. They see that children are also real investors of peace in generations to come. In the spirit of Christmas, our soldiers were there to bring happiness to places people cannot agree on going. They have shared a sacrifice to be with children they do not know while he is far from his family during the season. For a small price to give, the know that there are big gains.
"Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love." - Lao Tzu
Happy Holidays everyone! Most especially to our Filipino soldiers.

Photos are copyright. 

© iamreservist

Moments of Bayanihan | The Nurse with a Soldier's Heart

When people usually talk about the word military, what pops out of my mind usually has the same meaning of being raw, rugged, and extreme. But everything changed when I had the chance on meeting a nurse wearing a battle dress uniform, I felt devotion where two selfless career in one life can shine.   

Instrument for Healing Hands -

"A military nurse treats a foreigner suffering from allergies during the Hot Air Balloon festival sometime February 2010. A nurse had taken oath to serve any person suffering from discomfort. While a military nurse extends herself to marry the career of arms and an instrument for healing hands."

It is probably a non-refutable fact if I say that military nursing can be one of the most difficult jobs available in the world as Lt. Gen. Nestor R. Santillan, AFP (Ret) once said, "The life of a soldier is a life of duty, not adventure; a life of sacrifice not choice; a life of service not profit; that is why we call our job, the service... the greatest reward for a soldier is to see the country and people we serve benefit from our dedicated service..."

I see now that there are little pointers to differentiate a civilian nurse to a military nurse... but being able to see their duty of marrying the career of arms and a provider of holistic care. They are undeniably one of most aspiring people in the field today.

If you are a nurse, try to imagine this when you wake up with the sound of reveille in the morning, run for your physical exercise, bathe in excruciatingly cold water, don your army uniform, wear those heavy combat boots, then accessorize yourself with stethoscopes, first aid kit, penlight, among others... 

Towards the start of your shift, one of your objective is to help the wounded soldiers and regain the hope of life within them. Some may have probable post traumatic stress disorder which can be a big hindrance to your healing hands. You see them without limbs because they just came in from the battlefield. Even a cold or flu can still make the day bad. However, you, being their support makes a big difference and their dependents vouch for your care to teach them in taking part of their well-being.

It is not just soldiers whom our military nurses support. Their dependents are also part of their circle of care. On the wider scale, the whole community is also an extension of their responsibility.

By these words I say, military nurses are a great asset to the troops, their dependents, and the community. 

Along with reservists and their nursing degree (photo on left), they work hand in hand for nation-building; pushing greater horizons of service to community education and rescue operations. This is Bayanihan.

It is not an everyday scene that you see military nurses in the field. Not because they only show their service in the back of the stage, rather, they just don't do it under the spot light to gather fame. These camouflaged Nightingales are too busy rendering their service for the people who need them most.

This blog is dedicated to the military nurses of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. To the nurses with a soldier's heart.

© iamreservist

Moments of Bayanihan | The Unknown Soldier

Libingan ng mga Bayani
- The Unknown Soldier - 

"Here Lies a Filipino Soldier Whose Name is Only Known to God."

Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes Cemetery) in Taguig City, Philippines is where I spent my night for the Undas (Halloween). It just feels right that I wanted to share a piece of my experience and feature the story in this blog. This was my first time being here with a bag full of questions to fill a curious mind. 

It is probably the best time to visit the area, after all, this is the Halloween and the cemetery is open for twenty-four hours from November 1-2, 2012. I spent two days and a night just taking photos of our heroes. 

Libingan ng mga BayaniWhile roaming around the evening, it felt like romance having to see elderly people lighting up candles. Children were also there listening stories of valor. But what actually caught my heart is the tomb called the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" situated in the center of the cemetery. 


This was specifically established in memory of those soldiers whose names have not been known after their death mainly because their bodies are no longer in the shape of recognition. 

When I was munching every moment and pondering the beauty of their sacrifice. One stranger stood beside me and openly shared his heart. He said, "How great can this be? A soldier whose name is unknown to all of us but he has full of my respect." I felt it. And from that moment, it somehow feels good to be reminded of what Bayani (Hero) truly calls for!


One or many has to know that we Filipinos owe our freedom from these men who did the ultimate sacrifice of accepting death for the love of his country. How can the nameless be full of respect? Because he is a hero. 

I took my last photo (first photo above) under the shimmering stars at 0300H. I just felt that these stars were there for a reason... It felt like I am glancing through every legacy and sacrifice of the soldiers who were not named. 

Oh! Only God knows, but whoever you are... I thank you Sir Soldier Sir!

In lieu with the season of remembering our soldiers, I am dedicating this post to my grandfathers and their siblings who dedicated their service before I was born. I did not know very much about your lives and the things you've done to free this country. But this fact constantly give me that amazement that loving this great nation is part of my blood. 

Happy Undas everyone! 

And I'm proud to be an Filipino, 
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died, 
who gave that right to me.”
~ excerpts from Lee Greenwood, edited.

© iamreservist

Buhay Kawal: Psalm 91


- Psalm 91 - 

A junior soldier was asked to pray for his comrades without hesitation. He prayed in bisaya while following through a verse from Psalm 91.

In some units of the Philippine Army, the troops are required to memorize in their full heart the contents of Psalm 91. This verse is not a pattern of prayer, but to them, it is a reminder of God's splendor and promise. It was even termed as the soldier's prayer. 

During World War I, the 91st Brigade of the U.S. Army prayed Psalm 91 together every day. Although they were engaged in three of the bloodiest battles in the war, these soldiers had no combat-related casualties. Psalm 91:1-16 (The Message) shows this promise. It also comforts our Filipino - Christian soldiers in the field; whether in operation or standby.

Buhay Kawal (Life of a Soldier) is not an a usual walk-in-the-park career. Rather lives are dedicated to serve the Filipinos with all bravery and courage. Their courage is knowing that fear is still existent in their lives but pressing on for the orders and the calling. 

All along they do this, to provide for their families whom they ever wish to come home safe. Psalms 91 comforts them from the fear of the unexpected events. Hence, yielding them courage to become better soldiers.  

This blog post is dedicated to the four marines who sacrificed their life last Sunday October 28, 2012 at Patikul, Sulu. iamreservist pays respect and condolence to the families. I pray for comfort for each and every individual facing the situation. All taps to... 
SGT RICARDO S NACARIO 834788 PN (M) 
CPL DEXTER JOHN G BATERINA 868829 PN (M)
PFC ALLAN B BERCILLA 897644 PN (M)
PFC GLEN C GAPASIN 899933 PN (M)

© iamreservist