Spot the Veteran: 20 Signs Someone Has a Military Past
Have you ever suspected someone might be ex-military? It’s not just about the crisp salutes or shiny boots. Here’s a no-nonsense guide to spotting British ex-servicemen as they navigate civilian life.
1. Loves A Good Queue
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They have exceptional patience in line, whether it’s at the bank or a coffee shop. Whether it’s at the bank or the bar, ex-military folk will find the end of a line and stick to it—patiently and tactically.
2. Watches On The Right Wrist
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Many are accustomed to wearing their watch on the right wrist—it’s practical for checking the time while holding a weapon in the left.
3. The 1000-Yard Stare
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They can often be seen gazing into the distance with a look that’s seen more than a few things. It’s not judgment; it’s just a default setting.
4. Haircuts Remain Regimented
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The hair might grey, but the style stays the same: short, tidy, and ever-prepared for an impromptu inspection.
5. Punctuality Is A Lifestyle
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If they say 0800, they don’t mean 0801. To an ex-military, ‘late’ is a dirty word.
6. Fondness For Camo
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A surprising amount of their wardrobe still features camouflage. It’s practical, hides stains brilliantly, and never really goes out of style—at least for them.
7. Unshakable Love For A Brew
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Coffee or tea, it’s prepared with precision—more ritual than routine. They brew a cup with military precision and seriousness.
8. Fondness For Jargon
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Expect military jargon to drop into everyday conversation. Military slang slips into the conversation—expect terms like “on the move” or “unknown contact.
9. Boots Polished To A Mirror Shine
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Their shoes can double as a shaving mirror. The habit of boot polishing endures as a lifelong commitment.
10. Uses Military Time
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Civilian time is for civilians. Expect any reference to time to be in a 24-hour format, clear and without confusion.
11. Loves An Understatement
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They downplay injuries, saying, “it’s just a scratch” for anything from minor to more severe injuries. The art of understatement is a badge of honor.
12. Always Sit Facing The Door
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In any restaurant or public place, they prefer seats where they can see the exits. Old habits die hard.
13. Tactical Everywhere
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From packing for a holiday to loading the dishwasher, everything is done with military efficiency and strategy.
14. Weather-Proof
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They’re prepared for all weather conditions, often carrying what appears to be the contents of a small survival store in their backpack.
15. Master Of The DIY SOS
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Give them a problem and a Swiss Army knife, and they’ll sort it. From fixing a leaky tap to assembling furniture, it’s all about the mission.
16. Steely Composure
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Their face doesn’t give much away, especially in a crisis. It’s called maintaining composure, and it’s drilled in from day one.
17. Physically Disciplined
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They maintain a level of fitness that suggests they could still drop and give you twenty at any moment.
18. The Walking Map
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Asking for directions is unnecessary. They’ve memorized routes, landmarks, and probably still have an old compass just in case.
19. Respect For Authority
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A deep-seated respect for hierarchy and order can be seen in both their professional and personal lives. Chain of command matters.
20. Eye For Detail
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They notice everything, from slightly skewed wall art to someone’s untied shoes. Details matter, always.
Still Among Us
![](https://hellopositivemindset.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/shutterstock_2145891607-1.jpg)
Spotting an American veteran might be easier than you think. Just look for the person who’s prepared for anything, has a plan for everything, and still craves the perfect cup of coffee amid the chaos of civilian life.
Toxic Talk: 21 Phrases to Never Say to Your Kids
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Are you worried about the impact of your words on your child’s well-being? Let’s tackle 21 phrases that might be causing more harm than you realize. Toxic Talk: 21 Phrases to Never Say to Your Kids
Breaking Ties: Recognizing When It’s Time to Go No-Contact with Parents
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Deciding to go no-contact with a parent is a profound, often painful choice, but sometimes it’s necessary for personal well-being. Are you grappling with the decision to distance yourself from a toxic parental relationship? Breaking Ties: Recognizing When It’s Time to Go No-Contact with Parents
Stop the Stereotypes: 20 Gender-Based Comments Kids Don’t Need
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It’s time to challenge traditional narratives that limit kids’ potential. Here are gender-specific phrases and ideas to avoid, fostering a supportive and open-minded environment for the next generation. Stop the Stereotypes: 20 Gender-Based Comments Kids Don’t Need
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Stockagogo Photos.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.