In observance of Veteran's Day, the IronPlanet blog will feature veterans who have returned from wartime service in the United States military and now work at or with GovPlanet. The aim of these interviews is to learn about the military experience from the people who were there. IronPlanet thanks those who participated in this project for their opinions and their service to our country.
A portion of the proceeds from GovPlanet's all-Humvee sale on November 15 will go to Fisher House Foundation, an organization that provides comfort homes to vets' families while their loved ones receive treatment.
GovPlanet inspector David Zilka served in the first Gulf War in the US Army as a Sergeant. He was stationed at Ft. Riley, KS, Ft. Campbell, KY, Germany, and Korea. His Military Occupational Speciality was 63W wheeled vehical repairer.
Why did you enlist?
To get a job.
What positive things did the military do for you?
It gave me a good work ethic.
How did it shape who you are today?
Made me a better person.
Has your view of the rest of the world changed as a result of your service?
Yes, my view of the world has changed; it's a lot smaller than when I was 17.
What would you tell a young person thinking about enlisting?
Young kids should join if they want; it's a good way to know what they're made of.
GovPlanet inspector David Goldberg served in the U.S. Army in Bosnia. He was an SPC E-4 stationed in Ft. Knox Kentucky; Ft. Stewart Georgia; Kitzingen Germany; Tuzla Bosnia Herzigovina; Ft. Lewis Washington; and Ft. Riely Kansas. His MOS was 63T Bradley Fighting Vehicle Systems Mechanic. "However, you end up doing different jobs as needed," he said. "I was primarily a mechanic, but also ran a fuel truck, a tool truck and a HMMWV rebuild shop."
He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievment Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and a North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Medal.
Why did you enlist?
To try and achive something with my life.
What positive things did the military do for you?
It gave me a clear picture of who I was and who I want to be.
How did it shape who you are today?
By teaching me the discipline and technical ability to achieve my goals.
Has your view of the rest of the world changed as a result of your service?
My veiw has changed a great deal. I no longer see the world as black and white - I see all the good with all the bad. I know what humans are capable of and it's both amazing and terrifyng.
How can we as civilians support our troops?
Just support their endeavors and not forget those who paid the ultimate price.
What would you tell a young person thinking about enlisting?
DO IT!!! The people you meet, the experiences, the pride in yourself, the overall amazement that you may be one person but part of a mission that can make a difference in the world is a little awe inspiring
