MTI SOCIAL MEDIA SITES

It has been my experience that this message board was and is a special place for free and open discussion. Members are free to enter into whatever conversations are taking place, and either post their comments, or not, as they choose. In the past there have been discussions covering many different subjects including drill and ceremonies, wear of the AF uniform, BMT curriculum, proper length of a step while marching, even some political banter prior to the election. Together, we have laughed at some of the things posted, mourned the loss of our brother members even when we had never met them, and offered prayer for those of us who have had or are now suffering a personal crises. As individuals we are a very diverse group but with one commonality that sets us apart from every other person on earth—we are Military Training Instructors.

There is no past tense here, only veteran instructors and active duty instructors exist in the very special world of MTI's. I can think of no other group of individuals who would recognize what special qualities are needed to be a MTI, it is one thing that you just "had to be there" to understand. Some of us served one tour as a MTI, while others may have spent several tours and worked in different capacities. Our membership spans the spectrum from Airman to General Officer. We have individuals who have served or are serving as Street Instructors, Team Leaders, Section Supervisors, Training Superintendents, First Sergeants, and Commanders. Our group can claim members who are currently from many different walks of life: active duty military, lawyer, physical therapist, diplomat, writer, private investigator, commercial fisherman, big game processor, motorcycle mechanic, computer repairman, salesmen, preacher, school teacher, law enforcement officer, civil servant, retiree, and the list goes on and on. But in our differences there remains that common bond that draws us all together just like family—we are all TI's. It is both an honor and a privilege for me to be a part of this special group.

This message board is fun! That's its purpose. There is an extensive amount of good natured kidding that goes on among us, and many of us have ventured into some heated discussions over a variety of subjects. We have all demonstrated that we have a very good sense of humor, a sharp wit, and the ability to take as well as give. I sincerely hope that it continues to be that way. I would hate to see any of the things that make us such a unique group go away. Things like, mustard bottles, pool parties, Aide-de-Camps, big bottles of CR, humorous signatures, baked goods, length of steps, cadence, command voice competition, and Mexican food all contribute to the fun and enjoyment of each others company. While all is fair in love and this message board, I try not to be too caustic in my remarks out of the deep respect that I have for each and every member. But that's just me, it's the way I am. We have all aspired to, and accomplished or are accomplishing, many different things, and life can be tough at times. It is a comfort to know that we all can come to this board and share, or lurk as we see fit and still remain welcome asa brother or sister MTI.

Dave Mariano
1968 - 1972, 3706 BMTS & 3724 BMTS

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