Richie, your so cool ❤ when I watch your videos you speak as if you are actually talking to me... which makes your videos so wonderful. Thanks 😊 love you 😘
I served when it was still illegal for me to be me. I had to hide the entire 22 years. Depression was a constant companion. Loneliness was my only family. Even with the "fraternity", nothing seemed to work. The "Don't ask, Don't tell" happened. To be honest, nothing changed. Nowadays members can be who they are. It's a lot different now. To be honest, you are better off never having been inducted. You are the best you, that you can be, as you are now.
I was in AF from late 70s to 90s. in those days if they found out you were gay, it was a discharge with other than honorable discharge. I kept deeply buried within myself, like you said, depression my only companion. years afterward, when I came out an old AF buddy said most everyone suspected I was gay but because I kept to myself nothing could be done. I hope things do not change for gays who are in but I do worry about a change in political winds
Finding your purpose in life is something that even I struggle with. I have a few years on you. But examining and facing your fears is a good way for you to navigate your life. Your purpose to help people is evident. This video is an amazing step for you and a great example to others (like me). Thanks for opening up.
Ritchie, I joined the military to run away from myself......after a 20 yr career, I was still running. The accolades were nice, but never gave me what I really needed and was seeking out. Like you said, you've got experience and wisdom under your belt that many will never know.
What a joy it is to watch you on your videos. You are so sweet and super good looking man. I wish the best for you. Valleys do happen for a reason but they are not fun but helpful in life. BLESS YOU RICHIE.
Ritchie, like you said there are ups and downs throughout life. It's something that everyone goes through and You just have to make the best of it. So don't have regrets because that's not what defines You as a person. You seem to have a good head on your shoulder by always looking forward and not so much dwelling on the past. Everyone makes mistakes in life and thats how we learn in order to overcome and persevere. And I think You have overcome many obstacles that have come your way, so I think you'll be just fine. And always remember, everything happens for a reason; what You choose to do with it remains within You and You alone. Never let anyone make those decisions for You in the years to come.....God Bless.
Richie, your a great guy. I became an international flight attendant at 20 and I loved it. But I had a stroke at 50, that ended my days of flying, but it opened a new door. I love running two business. My advice . To you is always follow your ❤️. Nobody is perfect we all learn from our mistakes. Its life, Live to the fullest. 😊
Thanks for your story about your military service Richie! There are boys who love to fight love to box and wrestle. That's what people usually say: He's a real man! Richie you are a sensitive person and appreciate other values (besides liking to fly...) You are so blessed with so much more than these tough guys. You are a wonderful MAN 💯‼️Thank you for being you, we need more of men like you Richie 💞 God bless you and wish you all the best in the world. A lot of people hug me and I guess a lot of people agree 🥰🤩🌹‼️
You are an excellent storyteller. At the outset you mentioned mountains and valleys. Like is a series of mountains and valleys. The mountains are our reward for making it through those valleys! I am glad you were not accepted by military because we would never have connected. I would have missed getting to know a really cool guy with much to offer in life. Thank you for your genuineness and openness. These are traits not often demonstrated in life. Stay true to yourself . Love you ❣️🫶❤️
Nice Richie..you certainly explained that very well..and i understand exactly what you are saying. There is a reason for everything..and it takes time to understand ourselves..you are really agreat person...thank tou ..❤❤❤😊😊😊😊
I think our older relatives are willing to accept us when we find love! Regardless of the form it takes. They just want to know that their is someone to take care of us when they are gone. It is such a loving gesture.
Wow! You did it again. You gave us another video that has some meat on it-not silly and shallow like so many other TH-camrs. I’m glad things turned out like they did. Sometimes negatives really are positives!! Thanks for being the kind person you are.
Richie, I'm glad that you tried and have been able to accept that maybe military wasn't the right path for you. Thy Universe, God, The Greater Power; however you refer to it; it was telling you something....that maybe that wasn't the right path for you. Better you realized it at the recruiter's office than half way through boot camp! I was Air Force from 2002-2008 and Air National Guard for another 4 years. I made great friends and I understand what you mean about wanting that "brother hood" experience: when you know people have your back no matter what. It seems like, though, that you are on your path and journey hopefully without regrets. I wish you well, friend!
If you care to share.....how have you dealt with depression;have you ever been suicidal? Thank you if you do reply. Anyway,glad you have learned lots and are a stronger person.
I watched the movie Forrest Gump and remembered a great word of advice that Forrest said. "Life is not like a box of chocolates you never know where it will take you."
Great life lesson, thanks for sharing. The older I become, I have realized that every closed door has kept me on a path for greater things to come. We just don't know what or when the better door will open. I just know that if my life had turned out the way I planned as a 20yo, it would be a dull shadow of the life I have had thus far...thanks to those closed doors.
I'm not too special at 'reading' people (that's my sister's thing). LOL!! But you, Richie... I can sense that you can/will be able to help people (help them carry 'some' of their burden) for a few steps in their lives. Never forget, to keep yourself 'healthy' as you go. ❣
Another insightful vlog. You were able to get the experience and knowledge you craved for in other ways than entering the military. BTW I very much like the way you're growing out your hair and having a little facial hair. Stay well
I recently spent time with 91&90 year old uncle and aunt during their birthday celebration. They have always loved my same sex partner. They live in the most red county ever! When my partner and I has some quite time with them they asked about my trans friend. My 90 year Aunt wanted to know how to make my trans friend feel more welcome at Thanksgiving.
Thanks for sharing more of your story. This takes some courage. You have learned from the many experiences you have had so far. I sense that you are still looking for your place in the world. Interesting your dad isn’t interested in sharing more about his dad. Perhaps there were difficult issues in that relationship, making it more difficult for your dad to develop a close supporting relationship with you.
Richie this was a very good video as all of them are. It made me think about when I had to make a tough decision because being gay was not to be talked about back then. Hearing your story I think maybe it was a good thing that it turned out the way it did.👍👍👍👍👍❤
From what I've read in other comments, it seems the military has certain people they want among their ranks: people who have nothing and no one, and want to start over with a blank slate; legacy recruits; people who went to their high schools, camps and jrotc clubs; boy/eagle scouts; bleeding heart patriots; the bad boys who need "straightening out"; and the occasional average joe. {there have been taking in sjw pc trans on occasion/as of late} Depending on the recruitment officer failure to or not to make any of these criteria determine your acceptance. some people do get in when underage or having a "shady past" I have heard a rumor mill that guys from certain "sites" with a particular motif might help a guy out 😉 And there's nothing wrong with cosplaying as one. OR Marrying one either.
It may have been fate, because had you been accepted, and there was a war, or other activity, with casualties, who's to say you wouldn't be here now? I'm kinda glad it went the way it did.
As a US Army veteran, I can say, yes the Marines and Air Force can be more selective of its recruits. What I can tell this audience is the US Army and Navy needs "ALL SORTS OF PEOPLE". They need people who can speak foreign languages, cook, fix equipment, process paperwork, perform medical procedures, transport people and equipment, etc. etc. Etc. The Recruiter was wrong. Also, If I were Richie, I would have ask to make an appointment with the Army recruiter and force them to reject you. However, it all worked out. Historically, there were a lot of World War II veterans in California who were porn stars on the side, on the QT hush hush.
I actually don't think "everything happens for a reason" in the sense that there is some predetermined path for everyone. What happens is that one thing doesn't work out, so you try something else. It's kinda that simple.
I'm a police officer and I can tell you that juvenile records are sealed records and have absolutely no factor in a persons adult life, except if you reveal it to someone. Just thought I would share.
You are so right on everything you said in this video. What a great video it is to so thank you for that. I spent almost 24 years in the military. When I got in, you could not be gay and then being in the military, they had the do not ask and do not tell Paul saying, and do not pursue Paul Asurion. You just couldn’t be Alton proud of being gay in the military so Some people are meant to be in the military and some people are not your 100% correct on that so thank you for that.
Richie Life is hard BUT YOU CARE ABOUT LIFE. KEEP UP THE GREAT LIFE AND I AM IMPRESSED THAT YOU WILL TALK ABOUT LIFE AND OTHERS WON'T. I AM PROUD OF YOU.
You’re not too old to join the military 🤷♂️ and they are hurting for people, so if the childhood stuff hurt before, it may work now. Also, the Army may be easier too (they need more people).
Ok, soooo, that was totally BS what that recruiter did. I'm not sure how it works in the state you were in. But here in Indiana, any miss steps with the law while a minor, unless really serious like murder, are sealed once you hit 18, even if it lands you in juvie. It can only be opened by a court order under certain circumstances, like evidence in a case as an adult. I went into the army at 19 and had gotten in trouble when i was 17, theft of alcohol and underage drinking, and they never saw it when they did my background check. Your honesty tainted his opinion of you because some military people have this idea that only certain people, thr right people, should be allowed to join, and that's why lgbtq+ people were banded for so long. So he gave you the excuse of something you would have had to do if you had been arrested as an adult to dissuade you from trying. Because they would never have seen it if they had just run the background check and he knew that.
@Rangecow is correct. I think you would have actually fit in pretty well as a military officer, although you’d probably have to give up the adult acting, lol! No, really I think your view of what it’s like to serve in the military is somewhat skewed and probably based on stereotypes. If you’re set on helping and building people up, there’s every opportunity in the world to do that. And I doubt I’m any less sensitive than you, and definitely not in as good shape. I’m not sure what you did at 14, but unless it was a serious felony, it’s probably not a big deal anymore. Flew C-5s, BTW.
People in the military are no different than you. I was there. I know. Don't ever feel that you're not just as good as they are. And be really jubilant that you didn't become a Marine.
Richie, your so cool ❤ when I watch your videos you speak as if you are actually talking to me... which makes your videos so wonderful. Thanks 😊 love you 😘
Wow. Great, great message. Thanks, Richie.
I served when it was still illegal for me to be me. I had to hide the entire 22 years. Depression was a constant companion. Loneliness was my only family. Even with the "fraternity", nothing seemed to work. The "Don't ask, Don't tell" happened. To be honest, nothing changed. Nowadays members can be who they are. It's a lot different now. To be honest, you are better off never having been inducted. You are the best you, that you can be, as you are now.
I was in AF from late 70s to 90s. in those days if they found out you were gay, it was a discharge with other than honorable discharge. I kept deeply buried within myself, like you said, depression my only companion. years afterward, when I came out an old AF buddy said most everyone suspected I was gay but because I kept to myself nothing could be done.
I hope things do not change for gays who are in but I do worry about a change in political winds
Finding your purpose in life is something that even I struggle with. I have a few years on you. But examining and facing your fears is a good way for you to navigate your life. Your purpose to help people is evident. This video is an amazing step for you and a great example to others (like me). Thanks for opening up.
I'm still struggling to find my own purpose too glad I'm not the only one
Thank you!
Ritchie, I joined the military to run away from myself......after a 20 yr career, I was still running. The accolades were nice, but never gave me what I really needed and was seeking out. Like you said, you've got experience and wisdom under your belt that many will never know.
As an older Man you have provided many hours of positivity to my life in many different ways.
I love and truly live your purpose!
What a joy it is to watch you on your videos. You are so sweet and super good looking man. I wish the best for you. Valleys do happen for a reason but they are not fun but helpful in life. BLESS YOU RICHIE.
Thank you so much!
Ritchie, like you said there are ups and downs throughout life. It's something that everyone goes through and You just have to make the best of it. So don't have regrets because that's not what defines You as a person. You seem to have a good head on your shoulder by always looking forward and not so much dwelling on the past. Everyone makes mistakes in life and thats how we learn in order to overcome and persevere. And I think You have overcome many obstacles that have come your way, so I think you'll be just fine. And always remember, everything happens for a reason; what You choose to do with it remains within You and You alone. Never let anyone make those decisions for You in the years to come.....God Bless.
Richie, your a great guy. I became an international flight attendant at 20 and I loved it. But I had a stroke at 50, that ended my days of flying, but it opened a new door. I love running two business. My advice . To you is always follow your ❤️. Nobody is perfect we all learn from our mistakes. Its life, Live to the fullest. 😊
Thanks for your story about your military service Richie! There are boys who love to fight love to box and wrestle. That's what people usually say: He's a real man! Richie you are a sensitive person and appreciate other values (besides liking to fly...) You are so blessed with so much more than these tough guys. You are a wonderful MAN 💯‼️Thank you for being you, we need more of men like you Richie 💞 God bless you and wish you all the best in the world. A lot of people hug me and I guess a lot of people agree 🥰🤩🌹‼️
Really great storytime video, Richie! I loved it, as always!
You are an excellent storyteller.
At the outset you mentioned mountains and valleys. Like is a series of mountains and valleys. The mountains are our reward for making it through those valleys!
I am glad you were not accepted by military because we would never have connected. I would have missed getting to know a really cool guy with much to offer in life.
Thank you for your genuineness and openness. These are traits not often demonstrated in life.
Stay true to yourself .
Love you ❣️🫶❤️
Nice Richie..you certainly explained that very well..and i understand exactly what you are saying. There is a reason for everything..and it takes time to understand ourselves..you are really agreat person...thank tou ..❤❤❤😊😊😊😊
I think our older relatives are willing to accept us when we find love! Regardless of the form it takes. They just want to know that their is someone to take care of us when they are gone. It is such a loving gesture.
Well done Ritchie! You are finding your true purpose, and helping other people in the process. You show determination and guts. Keep going
I appreciate that!
Wow! You did it again. You gave us another video that has some meat on it-not silly and shallow like so many other TH-camrs. I’m glad things turned out like they did. Sometimes negatives really are positives!! Thanks for being the kind person you are.
I appreciate that!
Richie, I'm glad that you tried and have been able to accept that maybe military wasn't the right path for you. Thy Universe, God, The Greater Power; however you refer to it; it was telling you something....that maybe that wasn't the right path for you. Better you realized it at the recruiter's office than half way through boot camp! I was Air Force from 2002-2008 and Air National Guard for another 4 years. I made great friends and I understand what you mean about wanting that "brother hood" experience: when you know people have your back no matter what. It seems like, though, that you are on your path and journey hopefully without regrets. I wish you well, friend!
Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts 😊
Lovin your videos, I'dve never rejected you💜
If you care to share.....how have you dealt with depression;have you ever been suicidal? Thank you if you do reply. Anyway,glad you have learned lots and are a stronger person.
I watched the movie Forrest Gump and remembered a great word of advice that Forrest said. "Life is not like a box of chocolates you never know where it will take you."
The quote was actually. “ life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.”.
Great life lesson, thanks for sharing. The older I become, I have realized that every closed door has kept me on a path for greater things to come. We just don't know what or when the better door will open. I just know that if my life had turned out the way I planned as a 20yo, it would be a dull shadow of the life I have had thus far...thanks to those closed doors.
I'm not too special at 'reading' people (that's my sister's thing). LOL!! But you, Richie... I can sense that you can/will be able to help people (help them carry 'some' of their burden) for a few steps in their lives. Never forget, to keep yourself 'healthy' as you go. ❣
Hi Richie. Have great day!😎
Excellent story, Richie. I always enjoy your content and look forward to each new installment.
The thing that would terrify me with the military would be the naked physicals and boot camps. I would be glad to have been rejected/
I always enjoy your videos.... :)
I agree with 202 it will make u a better man. They are taking anyone these days...GO FOR IT...#Served20Years
Another insightful vlog. You were able to get the experience and knowledge you craved for in other ways than entering the military. BTW I very much like the way you're growing out your hair and having a little facial hair. Stay well
I recently spent time with 91&90 year old uncle and aunt during their birthday celebration. They have always loved my same sex partner. They live in the most red county ever! When my partner and I has some quite time with them they asked about my trans friend. My 90 year Aunt wanted to know how to make my trans friend feel more welcome at Thanksgiving.
Hy Ritchie ‼️ I jus love your honesty and sincerity ✨💜❤✨
Your a inspiration richie i like both and people would disown me if i told them
Thanks for sharing more of your story. This takes some courage. You have learned from the many experiences you have had so far. I sense that you are still looking for your place in the world. Interesting your dad isn’t interested in sharing more about his dad. Perhaps there were difficult issues in that relationship, making it more difficult for your dad to develop a close supporting relationship with you.
Richie this was a very good video as all of them are. It made me think about when I had to make a tough decision because being gay was not to be talked about back then. Hearing your story I think maybe it was a good thing that it turned out the way it did.👍👍👍👍👍❤
From what I've read in other comments, it seems the military has certain people they want among their ranks:
people who have nothing and no one, and want to start over with a blank slate; legacy recruits; people who went to their high schools, camps and jrotc clubs; boy/eagle scouts; bleeding heart patriots; the bad boys who need "straightening out"; and the occasional average joe. {there have been taking in sjw pc trans on occasion/as of late}
Depending on the recruitment officer failure to or not to make any of these criteria determine your acceptance. some people do get in when underage or having a "shady past"
I have heard a rumor mill that guys from certain "sites" with a particular motif might help a guy out 😉
And there's nothing wrong with cosplaying as one. OR Marrying one either.
It may have been fate, because had you been accepted, and there was a war, or other activity, with casualties, who's to say you wouldn't be here now? I'm kinda glad it went the way it did.
Still loving you
As a US Army veteran, I can say, yes the Marines and Air Force can be more selective of its recruits. What I can tell this audience is the US Army and Navy needs "ALL SORTS OF PEOPLE". They need people who can speak foreign languages, cook, fix equipment, process paperwork, perform medical procedures, transport people and equipment, etc. etc. Etc. The Recruiter was wrong. Also, If I were Richie, I would have ask to make an appointment with the Army recruiter and force them to reject you. However, it all worked out. Historically, there were a lot of World War II veterans in California who were porn stars on the side, on the QT hush hush.
I’m sorry Ritchie
I actually don't think "everything happens for a reason" in the sense that there is some predetermined path for everyone. What happens is that one thing doesn't work out, so you try something else. It's kinda that simple.
every happen for a reason ....
I'm a police officer and I can tell you that juvenile records are sealed records and have absolutely no factor in a persons adult life, except if you reveal it to someone. Just thought I would share.
Hi Richie how are you buddy. I love your videos on TH-cam s
Richie ..You made the right
..
You are so right on everything you said in this video. What a great video it is to so thank you for that. I spent almost 24 years in the military. When I got in, you could not be gay and then being in the military, they had the do not ask and do not tell Paul saying, and do not pursue Paul Asurion. You just couldn’t be Alton proud of being gay in the military so Some people are meant to be in the military and some people are not your 100% correct on that so thank you for that.
Ditto!
Richie
Life is hard BUT YOU CARE ABOUT LIFE. KEEP UP THE GREAT LIFE AND I AM IMPRESSED THAT YOU WILL TALK ABOUT LIFE AND OTHERS WON'T. I AM PROUD OF YOU.
It’s Gods choice. One never knows.
You’re not too old to join the military 🤷♂️ and they are hurting for people, so if the childhood stuff hurt before, it may work now. Also, the Army may be easier too (they need more people).
Ok, soooo, that was totally BS what that recruiter did. I'm not sure how it works in the state you were in. But here in Indiana, any miss steps with the law while a minor, unless really serious like murder, are sealed once you hit 18, even if it lands you in juvie. It can only be opened by a court order under certain circumstances, like evidence in a case as an adult. I went into the army at 19 and had gotten in trouble when i was 17, theft of alcohol and underage drinking, and they never saw it when they did my background check. Your honesty tainted his opinion of you because some military people have this idea that only certain people, thr right people, should be allowed to join, and that's why lgbtq+ people were banded for so long. So he gave you the excuse of something you would have had to do if you had been arrested as an adult to dissuade you from trying. Because they would never have seen it if they had just run the background check and he knew that.
@Rangecow is correct. I think you would have actually fit in pretty well as a military officer, although you’d probably have to give up the adult acting, lol! No, really I think your view of what it’s like to serve in the military is somewhat skewed and probably based on stereotypes. If you’re set on helping and building people up, there’s every opportunity in the world to do that. And I doubt I’m any less sensitive than you, and definitely not in as good shape. I’m not sure what you did at 14, but unless it was a serious felony, it’s probably not a big deal anymore. Flew C-5s, BTW.
What is your meaning of the cross you are wearing? I am fascinated by the signs of Christianity among LGBT+ presenters.
People in the military are no different than you. I was there. I know. Don't ever feel that you're not just as good as they are. And be really jubilant that you didn't become a Marine.
But you are a Christian Soldier!
Richie. ...
They rejected him because he's straight