Following Orders

The following story is made possible from the team behind Breaking Brainwashed.

When I was serving in the military, I had a corporal brother whom I respected as a mentor and teacher. We were both stationed at the same headquarters. While he had many years of military experience, he also shared stories of his combat experiences with me.

One day, during a time of military coup and widespread protests, I suggested to my teacher that we should join the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM). This movement refers to those Burmese military personnel who have defected in opposition to the military coup. However, my teacher refused to join and instead told me not to get involved.

He reminded me that as a soldier, it is important to follow orders and not think too much. He told me that everything would pass in due time. While I didn't agree with his words, I didn't dare to argue with him for fear of causing tension between us.

Despite this disagreement, my teacher always treated me kindly and was never abusive. In fact, he often went out of his way to help me, including paying for my wedding.

However, despite my respect for him, I couldn't help but feel conflicted about the military and its actions. I saw firsthand how the military would force soldiers to work constantly with no rest, and how we were not allowed to voice our opinions or thoughts. It seemed like the military was trying to suppress any individuality or dissent.

Even when we were given seemingly pointless tasks, like cutting down bamboo that wasn't needed, we were still expected to comply without question. This bamboo was often infested with lice, making the task even more unpleasant.

As I reflect on my time in the military, I can't help but feel a sense of trauma and disillusionment. While I was taught to obey orders and love the military, I have come to realize that this organization is not always good. The hatred of the people towards the military is not easily reconciled.

I believe it is important to try to be a member of the military who truly cares about the well-being of their country and its people, rather than blindly following orders and perpetuating a damaging system.