In the armed forces, there are many ranks. Ranks which define the character of the person, and the hard work and sacrifice of those with the same last name. The military, no matter what branch, requires sacrifice not only of the member but of the families they defend. For most in the military, they have a defining moment on the civilian side that moved them enough to enlist and defend. For many it's a family tradition, passed down from generation to generation, saluting the next one in line.
While the respect is earned from the outside looking in, the crap is taken from the inside. The full bird Colonel is a rank only few can get to. You have stood the test of time and remain to show excellence in America's fighting force. The problem isn't seen by them. It's seen by the 140 lb private with the same last name. The look people give you when they read your name tape. Wondering how the hell you came from that. Wondering what went wrong, how a full bird could produce a private. I think most people just assume when a high-ranking officer has a child, they automatically just come out as an officer.
Most people assume that it works like a company, if you're related to someone in the company, you will move up even if you don't have the skill. The problem is, it doesn't work like that at all. Having the same last name means you are now treated like the bottom of their boot. You might be the Colonel's son but in this unit, you're barely even enlisted. You're standard has just become perfection. You have to show everyone that you can be as great as the Full Bird.
I enjoy the challenge that I inherited. I wouldn't want anyone to look at me and assume that I got where I am just hanging on the claws of the full bird. It's harder because of the standard that they set and I'm glad they set it so high. Because if I fail trying to reach it, I will still be above normal standards. And if I reach that standard I will be setting the same for my son. The problem is, the Colonel's son doesn't want to be remembered as the Colonel's son. He wants to be remembered as his own man. A new standard could be set. And in 20 years it might not be the Colonel's son, but perhaps the General's son.
