Objects in mirror are closer than they appear.

Battle buddy is an interesting concept. It was burned into my mind after Ft. Knox: A battle buddy, someone that goes with you everywhere, never leaves your side, and is ready to protect you at the drop of a hat. And you do the same in return. In Basic training, and LTC where I was, we get assigned battle buddies. We are forced to have it, to have the concept ingrained so that it is second nature by the time we get to the real Army. For me, I took the idea home from Ft. Knox.

Battle buddies often have different quirks and personalities. These usually complement each other, though, and as a whole, as a pair, create a stronger and most effective presence. They make each other less self-conscious, because they know that if they fuck up, at least someone else will be along with them, and that there will someone that has their back. And they will follow each other into trouble, if need be.

This year, I was lucky enough to have a few battle buddies. Some, I created by calling them such, and we took the title on. Others were forged throughout the year as we knew each other better and better. Regardless of how they were formed, I am grateful for them. They picked up the slack when I fucked up, took care of the shit I didn’t get done, and stayed by my side. I only wish I can do the same for them when they need.