2.Neat question. In Afg and Ir we were totally nocturnal--it was pretty cool. Had the added benefit of missing the Army chow hall--but my natural condition is sleep from midnight to eight, so it was easy to get back to it---though I do really love the dark--no place I am more comforatable.
3. No, I can tell anyone the stories--but they can't understand them--or they don't believe--"How could you have not been afraid" is the classic question----I don't know I just wasn't and that is something only peers get---so, the bond is already formed that allows the shared experience--not the other way around
4. Absolutely! Some traits stick forever of course--but real operating requires daily practice--even in the war zone we target practice just about everyday
5 Yes, I think so. Difference is that the young studs can do the heavy lifting under us oldsters watchful eye---it isn't a competition for the starting spot