GardaWorld was offering me like $210 a day working 12hr shifts 6 days a week. I thought he was pulling a prank on me, why would I go back to Afghanistan for 15% more than I make now while getting to go home every night
Worked from ‘09-‘13. Every purchase was measured in “this many work days to pay for it”. Left home 3 days after our first baby girl was born and came home 3 days before her 3rd month birthday in 2013. Wife said us or contracts and I picked us. You hit the nail on the head with that part. We had the perfect marriage that survived that but not breast cancer. She passed a little over a month ago but praise God for two beautiful daughters from our time on earth. She enjoyed your vids! Keep rocking on man!
Work for the protagonist and join his crew. Hope that you’re not the one that dies for dramatic effect to advance the protagonist’s character building.
@@KitBadger was gonna say, that wood is garbage lol. What i do in a crappy wood situation is just make sure good amounts if air get under the wood, eliminates all the smoke and will make sure that even the Pulpiest wood will burn.
I was one of the lucky ones. I was married when I joined and made it through my 23 year career with my marriage in tact. When I retired I told my wife that I was thinking about contracting and mentioned how good the money would be to my wife. She said, “good, it will help you pay the divorce attorney” That was the last time I mentioned it.
The job sounds a lot like a girl, working as stripper: 1) Money is good 2) can’t do it for long 3) hours are horrible 4) not good for relationships 5) constant need to justify the work 6) you need a good exit strategy because you don’t want to be that old lady scrounging around for dollar bills...
Honestly what he said in the video really should be shown to all kids. There were huge nuggets of wisdom here, don't let your income dictate your lifestyle spending (save money instead), recognize there isn't a get rich quick without a lot of risk, etc.
Mercenary = Fights in a War. vs. Security Contractor = Protects People/Assets in Dangerous Places Not the same thing... If you want the Definition, read the Laws of War: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercenary See the Follow Up Video on Getting Into Security Contracting here: kitbadger.com/security-contracting-what-it-is-and-how-to-get-started/
Semper Fi,I thought about it ,but I am older now and single,still in great shape ,was and 0311,0331,& 0341 ,I was with 3/2,Lima Wpns plt.,What is the age requirements to do this ,and how long do you have to stay
@@KitBadger lol it did. but, i was waiting for it like a cliffhanger action scene. may i ask; do you find balance in nature? in regards to your choices/actions/thoughts? or, was it just for the video? im not a veteran of any commercialized war, but, ive seen my fair share of madness, all the same. if it makes it any uneasier, i personally find balance out there.
You can't blame her for your mistake of getting married. Very bad choice on your part, you should know better. Men gain nothing from marriage while women gain everything.
In Afghanistan I remember talking to a contractor who was making six figures a year and all he did was fill up CO2 canisters for the paintball guns in the guard towers.......................jealousy level over 9000!!!!!
I remember film maker Michael Moores Fahrenheit 9-11 where a deployed US Army O-3/Captain was bitching about a PMC van driver in a FOB/forward operating base. 🙄. Like the PMC driver is not supposed to make $200000 per year? The Army captain was a big crybaby.
That income is taxed at like 50% and you're not home. I make almost as much money now as a police officer as I did after taxes back then. Plus I have a normal life now.
I'd rather be getting shot at for good money,then getting shot at for minimum wage,came from a pretty shitty neighborhood,so I'd like to take my chances getting paid good being shot at instead of minimum wage
@@asneakychicken322 : That's one of the major pressures so I've been told, as a soldier you can tell yourself you're there for a reason, you have a justification, something to be proud of. As a contractor, especially after something goes wrong, your first thought is usually "Why the hell am I here? Is a load of paper worth this shit?"
I love your style of video mate, you splitting branches and throwing them into a fire with running water behind you and snow everywhere is extremely calming and chill.
@@KitBadger Agreed with that guy, the fireside chat is really underrated. By the way, on the difference between mercs and contractors, what's the assessment on being a merc? Is it even possible without being seedy as fuck these days? I know people used to slip off to other parts of the world and fight wherever in the 70's.
I really enjoyed my time as a Contractor. I spent just under 25yrs. I made anywhere from a shitty $200 A day in the beginning (Late 80s) to as much as $2500 a day on a really sketchy Contract for a outta country 8 days. I was more concerned about making it home than any one of my 8 deployments as a RANGER. Once my daughter was born it was time to start getting off the titty! I don't regret doing almost everything I went through on the job!🥋🤼♂️ #RLTW
I've never been a contractor myself, but my older brother started with Blackwater in 04 and stayed with them up until 08 before going to work with triple canopy. I watched him live the high life for many years but unfortunately now after 10 years of Contracting in Iraq I've had to sit here and watch him lose his $140,000 SUV his $300,000 condo in Atlanta due to severe PTSD and alcoholism and at the age of 47 probably won't be with us much longer. It's an absolute shame that there's not some sort of Exit Plan for these contractors who spend 10 years overseas and are expected to come back here and live a civilian life without thinking that every animal carcass or shoe box on the side of the road is an IED. I would literally give anything to have my brother back to normal but unfortunately I guess he's had to see and do too many things that he just can't unsee. Thanks for taking the time to make the video.
It might sound simplistic but if you're truly concerned about losing him, Jesus is the answer for everyone, especially soldiers. He gives infinite purpose to life as He turns a sinner into a saint and a priest ready to share the Good News of eternal life with others. That's eternal reward and infinite meaning to the grunt who used to think he had the most important job in the world protecting others and making the world a better place. The second is the peace that passeth understanding from the Prince of Peace Himself. This does away with PTSD because there's no longer a fear of death (or anything irrational like a door slamming behind you) because the perfect love of God casts out all fear for fear has to do with judgment and hell, but the saved have no need to worry about this. I hope that helps. www.HeHasAnswers.com
There a lot of serious veteran groups that help guys out like your brother. I would seriously recommend getting him with one of them. It might be a second chance for him.
>Join Military >Join Contracting >Stuff as much money as you can manage into a 401k >Get a civilian job and retire early Thanks for this, im frugal by nature and contracting is shaping up to be a good move for me. Staying away from the drugs and alcohol is also probably a good bet.
Dank Dark why would you put it into a taxable retirement account when you can put it into a Roth IRA and receive the money tax free at 59 1/2? You like paying excessive amount of taxes?
I agree with you! I tell people join the military, then get contract, DOD, or civilian job. Buy a house, put money in Roth Ira & 401/403. Don't try to keep up with the Jones's and have $50,000-$100,000 emergency cash in the bank for a job loss or any thing that comes up. I survived the recession barely and I have lived life as a saver and I also have had $100,000 in car and credit card debt when I thought I was a "Baller". I up righted my ship and now I am fiscally wise with cash, mutual funds, home equity in one of the most expensive real estate markets and no debt (just mortgage). As most people age and make mistakes they will become more responsible with their money.
This has got to be one of the most brutally honest videos i've ever seen. Sharing the pain couldnt have been easy, but you probably made some folks second think their decisons.
@@KitBadger I second the above. Never heard of you, no offense. ;-) _______ Blown away by your candor, your gut level honesty, and your realistic and accurate depiction of the job. Sorry for your losses, glad to hear you've found balance in recognizing daily gems, so to speak. Some moments are simply irreplaceable. Sometimes the most important job we have as men is just to be there for the ones who need us most, and there is no paycheck worth trading that kind of peace of mind... Also, are you trying to give a comeback moment to the word "rad"? I lolled in your general direction... And hey, thanks for making a video this real on this topic without any pretense or toughguyness.
Caleb Bolton, how exactly is he supposed to sound? He’s just laying out his experience as it relates to someone getting into the contracting game. Sounds like you’re jealous... You’re not only jealous, you don’t have the balls to step into his shoes. Keep on gaming...
@@martylucas8557 He can sound however he wants, I'm just saying that from my perspective, he sounds condescending and as if he is better than others. I wouldn't like talking to anyone that sounds like that even if they were a president or celebrity. You're right that he's trying to help people who are interested in this field. I'm not jealous and I'm not sure why you think you're qualified to call me jealous, all I said was that I don't really like the way he talks. I don't hate him or resent him lol. And you're right I wouldn't step into his shoes, so what? That has nothing to do with my comment. "Keep on gaming" ??? I don't play video games anymore, I guess just another assumption you had?
Caleb, let’s just put it this way...he’s earned the right to sound however he pleases. When I listen to people that have experience give advice, no matter what the profession, I’m able to get past issues like...he’s a jerk off, asshole or condescending and key in on what he’s trying to convey.
As a current security contractor, I agree with everything you said. I want to quit, but the money is just too good. I am constantly tired, angry, and hate my life. I keep telling myself "I'll quit soon. This will be my last job" and it never comes. The money just provides so much for my family and opportunities for them. I had an exit plan initially after 4 years, and then I was going to go back to school to study and do something else... I'm into my 10th year now as a security contractor, and it is just all about the money. It keeps luring me back. This is my sad, pathetic existence. I'll probably be that guy in his 50s that is still doing this line of work because I don't know any other way. I'd say avoid security contract work if you can... AT ALL COSTS!
The money will keep luring you back since you don't create a plan for your money to earn money for you. Your luck will run out my guy. You can't just freestyle your way to a steady life and good health if you're doing a job like that. When's the last time you sat down with a financial advisor or someone who has wealth and knows about investments? You're good with a gun, but you're nit good with money. The same way somebody pays you to be a gunfighter, you need to pay someone to be your financial advisor. Sit down with them and figure out investment strategies that will yield results, so that you don't have to depend on risking your life for money. Because if like you said the money is good doing contracting work, you should be able to create a strong and diverse investment portfolio that ranges from real estate, stocks, forex, treasury bonds, crypto, and small businesses. Working for money is played out. Make your money work for you instead.
@@PermanentHigh Is forex a legitimate way to make money, it has always seemed like a scam to me? I think Realestate is a major investment, and best way to invest. But will also take the most attention, hiring/ firing property managers, evicting tenants, and accounting for vacancy, and repairs. I'm a nurse, and got my realtor license to invest, and going to enlist in the air force reserves, and the 15k bonus I'm going to get half, and all of that is going to go to a quadplex or multi family unit, and rent it out, down payment with FHA loan 3.5%, or 5% conventional loan.
This guy is the Mr. Rogers of the Marine Corps and security contracting. Really nonchalant and passive... until shit gets real then I bet he could do some damage. Lol!
@@dingusmcgringle9741 It's warranted confidence, people who can't back up their words talk the loudest because they cant actually prove themselves, so they talk big. Guys like this don't need to talk big.
@@KitBadger Thanks for the reply. That's such a beautiful spot. I've never seen snow and only even seen mountains a few times so that type of beauty is out of my wheelhouse.
Can we have an Advice by the Campfire with Ivan series? None of this video applied to me and I watched the whole thing. The only thing that would have made it better is if you’d started out wearing a plate carrier, entered frame left, took it off and slung it while switching out for the puffy coat, changed out of your gaiters and boots and into some Lems, and played a punk cover of Mr. Rogers Neighborhood as an intro.
@@RobertsIslandLivingAdventures that's why you just grab all that money, invest in index funds and dividend yielding stocks, and let that sweet dividend money just flow in every month while the bulk of it grows every year lol.
I cant explain the amount of joy and happiness I felt when seeing my 6 yr son talk with me about his tooth falling out and the tooth-fairy coming to get it and give him something for it. You couldn't be righter in the sense of missing the little things. Thanks for reminding our brothers of the sacrifice between money and true-joy.
Fiscal discipline - number one killer - I am now a commercial diver I see all the same problems as I did as a contractor - but it all becomes such a life style I cant imagine not travelling and not being "isolated" from things - still no wife or kids and will be 50 soon - its always one more job - great video and so true ---thanks
Had a buddy who was a contractor...was addicted to war. Came home and died from a heart attack in his 20s training to become a state trooper. I think the stress got to him eventually.
Damn that’s crazy. I’ve never met anyone like that. Would you be able to share a few stories or memories you have of him being a “war addict”? Like why he loved it so much and etc
Speaking for myself and my time as a contractor, this guy is on point with most points. I was not good with my money on the first contract. Couldn't hold a relationship for the life of me. Missed out on holidays, b-days, etc. Finally learned to manage my money before resigning. One thing he didn't mention as a con was whoever was the gov't agency running the contract, I encountered a lot of college degreed idiots with little to no combat experience making stupid decisions. And also being threatened of being fired if you don't do what they say. Can't make decisions on your own and if you do and they don't like it, you're fired. So always walking on eggshells. All in all, the pros were more temporary and the cons more long lasting. But I still have friends doing it and I support them 100%. If it works for them, who am I to say they're wrong. It just didn't work for me to do it long term. Great way tho if you want to get debt free and just work a year or two, contracting is the way to go. Just have to make some sacrifices for that time.
Btw bro that wanting action again never goes away... im telling you ,, war is some kinda drug... when your there you want out but when your out you want back in...
Very Good one, thanks for sharing. I will just add my experience for European contractors hope you don't mind. So I was about to start this lifestyle 7 8 years ago, when I finished my time with the French paratroopers. I started Digging up info, I then have smelled the bullcrap behind this business, and renounced it. First of all, For European citizens and military personnel it's even harder to get acess to contracts, let alone the fact that 90% of contracts are from the US/UK contracting bodies and requiring US/UK citizens for the most. Secondly, whoever is able to provide you with an accessible contract for your citizenship situation, you'll get the shittiest Jobs ever, and least paid ones with the poorest support. It depends on the company of course but (I've been asked to bring my own weapons and gears) which is totally impossible doing so legally in the EU. Or else you will have to go and deal with Russians and Eastern Europeans, which it's not that nice at all if you are not slavic, polish Ukrainian or Russian yourself. and it's not that well paid, barely around 100 dollars a day, and it's un enjoyable at all because of the stupidity you need to deal with. Thirdly, even if you get a uk/us contract, before beginning anything they will require you a (superhero) type of curriculum... with ages of experience, a lot of war tours, and God knows what else. and if you don't have it, then you'll probably need to acces their own qualification courses, ending up to spend more than 20k in euros, just for starting the whole crap, plus, additional training money.... Basically, you're a slave, for a freaking corporation with kids able to pull out contracts, for their money making machine, that you wash and produce with your efforts and hard labour. You ending up giving up your life and money for the passion you have for war and their pockets. I said to myself Better not get involved, or if money and connection can allow it, start your own business in the sector. Don't waste time on being a freaking donkey for them. You're not in the military, there are no values and comradeship. It's just about profit and loss. Peace brothers
Things I hated about contracting. 1. Shitty military units. (They will come up with the lamest excuse to get you fired so you have to play nice or don't socialize with them) 2. The pay. (Shitty contracts sucks. Especially if you cannot climb up the contracting ladder. So "NETWORK" b/c it's up to "YOU" if you "WANT" a better job and pay) 3. Brown nosing contractors. (People love drama but be vigilant of what you say and do) 4. The smell of a shit creek, dead animals, and trash. (Get use to it. Also, don't touch anything lying around as a rule of thumb) 5. Your boss/site lead. (I had a very complacent site lead. She [just telling the truth] didn't know how to write up an SOP, let alone believed the Army had to write an SOP for us contractors. I was told by a bearded ninja to simply follow him if shit goes really bad) Things I loved about contracting. 1. The military background of those you're surrounded with/work alongside. (It was my first time overseas so I ALWAYS asked good rifle/pistol/etc drills/techniques to improve my knowledge and skills. The guys I was with helped me a lot for a first time overseas contracting tour) 2. Range time (Because who loves shooting crates upon crates of ammo) 3. The locals (Stories about the Soviet invasion and Horse soldiers. Playing cricket was interesting but enjoyable) 4. NATO (Met a lot of awesome people from different countries. Still keep in contact with almost everyone I met) 5. The memories (Because not a lot of people will have funny, shitty, and cool memories/stories about living and working in another country) Why I decided to stop contracting? Even though contracting has given me one hell of an experience I won't ever forget. You can't replace "TIME" with missing out on family events. Also things "CHANGE" very quickly so what you remember seeing back at home might be different when you come home. Believe me, I'm still single with no kids before and after contracting. You're probably thinking, "WTF is this guy saying/thinking?!" Well it's simple for me. The amount of stupid shit that happens overseas from NDs (negligent discharges), fights, and etc. Yeah... it gets old fast, but apart of me still itches to go back even though I won't.
Honestly this sounds like the last art of the "right of passage" where men went on journeys to find themselves and come back to establish a legacy by making a family. I never went in the military or anything like this but I am more familiar with former military and former inmates on the thrill of survival and living but struggle with settling down or seeing the world you know change.
Is there a minimum age required or a certain amount of military experience and do you need to specialize in a certain career to work for a private military?
I mean, pretty much post 2015 when convoys on land were getting more and more sparce, a lot of support and guard types get more and more removed from action (Not counting rockets or morters), so when actual stuff happens, it can hit harder than some realize
gillecroisd 92 You're misunderstanding. First world money is "clean money". Security force money in foreign countries is usually "dirty" money. "Blood money". You may have to launder your own income, or learn your study jewelry....(dude in the video just mentioned gems)
On a serious note, I have so much respect for the "realness" you just brought. I feel like contracting is glorified so much by folks who genuinely have little to no understanding of it. Thanks for bringing a honest light to this and I hope it helps someone moving forward. Looking forward to future content and you got another subscriber out of me today :)
Con - home sick Con - away sick When you’re there you’re missing the wife, kids, family When you’re home you’re missing the work and jonsing over the next contract which ruins your time with the family. Travel is cool if you get on stuff that takes you places other than the Middle East but those are few and far between. Food was jam up as were the gyms even on gov contracts IF you were attached to the right units. Definitely a single mans game and go ahead and ditch any sense of patriotism and honor you have now. Most people you meet on contract won’t share those views. Other than that. I’ve met life long friends, experienced things few could ever relate to and participated in things I’m very proud of. But it took me years to reset to normal life.
Redbeard Combatives riddle me this Batman? How do you and whatever bunch of yahoos you’re chalked to manage to keep your TTPs inline if there’s no team mindset? I’m baffled and extremely curious about this lifestyle. 15 years SOF operations (recently retired) under my belt and can’t figure out what the deal is with this, how to get in, or even if I want to get in. I NEVER saw you guys downrange until someone got fucked up and the company’s name popped up on the following night’s CONOP or intel brief. With all that said, there’s one thing worse than being a contractor... it’s monotony. Does that make sense? I just turned down two job offers today, both doing desk shit like intel or SOF integration. I think one was at $255k with deployments. All I could think of was getting raped on taxes. I’d like to know your take on whether it’s worth it in the end, or is it just too much life pissed away for no reason other than a full wallet? Sorry about the novel, I just have to know before I step on my pecker applying to feel like I still “got it”. Appreciate the insight, man. Kit feel free to chime in on this.
But I'm sure even in contracting, just like the military, you got that old salty grunt from [affiliation redacted] that's either the best there is at what he/she does, seen too much and can't retire, waiting to die because they don't give a fuck, or all of the above. Yes I said he/she. May hardly ever be seen on the fictional entertainment scenes, but pretty sure women are still in the game just because. America may discriminate, but a bullet from an enemy weapon does not.
If you fellas are looking to come back to civilization, get a lineman apprenticeship. Similar social dynamics, stay in shape, make 100-200k per year and keep you body parts where they belong. Admittedly the divorce rate isn't that much better if you're working out of town - an observation not an experience. From an ex- combat engineer
Planning on using some of my post 9 11 to go to northwest lineman college for the 15 week program. In your opinion is that a worthwhile Investment or should I skip it and apply for an apprenticeship with a local utility? Thanks in advance.
@@jfeeble I'm up in British Columbia, But I did do a similar 8 week program up here before applying for jobs. I have no regrets taking it. It helps get your foot in the door, and a step up on other applicants. I'd still apply at local utilities in the meantime. If you do go to the college first, don't get offended when guys tell you to do things differently in the field. Oh, and get your air brakes and commercial drivers license. Having my class 1 got me my first job, no interview. Good luck!
He's right about the rationalizing, the world doesn't stop when you're deployed and nothing is on hold, it's rough to adjust back to normal life after being deployed
@@supersmasha5560 With respect to the oilfield, I didn't find it particularly difficult or dangerous; the hours could suck (but you also got long breaks, especially if you were working on a schedule) and I disliked the work and some of the people. I got paid a small salary but it was mainly about your day-rate, which could very tremedously based on what type of tools you were running and who you were working with. Also, you start buying things you shouldn't and using your day-rate to justify it. I was pretty good but I did buy an AR-15 barrel for $1K because it was less than two days work.
I look into DynaCorp or Reed. Avoid G4S security. They are awful. They had a scandal with the American Embassy, Kabul Afghanistan. There are lower rate PSC sites like Kuwait, UAE, Oman. Also SE Asia. Pacific.
Con: more contractors have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan than service members, and you aren't tracked. Just call them mercenaries, or change history books to call mercenaries contractors.
contractors are the true american spearhead for wars, after all its easier to deal with the PR of some contractors fucking up and calling in an airstrike on a fishing village than if they were your own grunts.
This video was really well done and honest. I experienced the same thing working on the oil fields doing shift work. Divorce rate for long term employees was 80-90%, the money was all spent trying to catch up on the everyday life that I missed, and the savings at the end was around 15% of what I could have saved. You have to miss birthdays, anniversaries, and hardest were the funerals that you can't attend for friends and family that you truly love. It's not all bad, but my advice would be to hire a financial adviser and lock down a rock solid financial plan so you can do high paying shift work for a couple years and then walk away having rental properties or something that you can live off of and have long term stability.
I agree to the whole, waving the American flag thing. If you wanna do something cause you wanna wave the American flag, just join the military. You WEAR the flag.
@@gaberesendez6492 That's right, that's true. Actually... Come to think of it... I think only the Army and Navy (with their green camo) wear the flag. Air Force as well if they're wearing the Army Scorpion pattern.
Become an IT guy and get a nice cushy DOD IT contract. More money and no real danger. You also don't have to be a "Bang Bang" contractor, you can go over with a logi company. I was a plumber in the Anbar province from 2008 - 2010. Money wasn't all that great, about 80K a year but it got me through the recession.
What IT work do you do? Going to be studying CyberSecurity this year and apply for a scholarship which would contractually obligate me to work for the DoD for a few years post-university.
Cons: Multiple failed relationships. Trouble with Internal/Interpol. Battered and bruised. Money - you might get burned. Pros: Money - if you dont get burned. Pretty much in a professional environment. (Also depends).
@@KitBadger great video.. I learned a lot watching it. Although $200 a day at an hourly stateside job is usually close to $125 after taxes. My question is are there pros to the way overseas contracting income is taxed?
@@KitBadger Im asking sincerely because I dont know. How heavily is the contracting money taxed? Do you know if it has been effected since changes in the tax code?
Another con is that certain jobs back in the States frown upon military contractors because they see us as “mercenaries” or they only know about “the Blackwater incident”. It took me a few years to land a good job back in the States, got turned down multiple times for the above reason. Just sad.
@@RickJamesCouch That would work if you applied to 7/11 but try to leave a 4yr gap in your resume and see how far that flies on a background investigation. I currently know of 8 fellow contractors that ran into the same problems and 7 of them went back to contracting because they couldn't find a good paying job due to no relevant job experience or the liberal view of people who serve in the military and us "hired guns".
@@nfthero4280 If you are new to contracting the first company you apply to will normally process your clearance through whichever agency the contract is for, you will "sit on the bench" until it goes through.
@@8654ZuluFoxtrot wrong. I've landed two contracts at fortune 500, one of which was a FAANG. One of the worst for SJW nonsense at that and I am making more $$ than if I stayed in. You'd be surprised how many vets drop even their service from their LinkedIn. Not just because of SJWs but it ages you too.
Hey Kit. I’ve been watching some of your content and I got to say that this has been one of your most authentic reflections. I appreciate the honest perspective and most of all your transparency in sharing your experiences. I encourage you to keep up the good work brotha! Also, thanks for your vids on the SW & HB. I ultimately decided on the SW due to availability and price point with a few upgrades. It was your content that aided me in my decision. Again, many thanks for the information you put out!
Really, really good video. You really nailed all the good, bad and ugly points. I played in that pool as a single guy in the early 70's, then again as married with children, in the mid to late 80's. There were pros and cons to both. My wife actually preferred when I was gone and she got mailbox money :) Much like yourself, my marriage didn't survive it. If your a single, adrenaline junkie that can also manage money, it's a great way to collect stories for your future grandchildren :) I have a friend, pretty deep into his 60's, that builds and remodels State Department Embassies around the world. Similar traps to fall into there. After all these years, all he has to show, is a storage unit full of expensive toys he visits on occasion. Glad to were able to get out with your sanity. Beautiful location you filmed at !! Thanks.
I have a deep respect for those that have served and for their family's. The words you spoke carry tons of weight even to someone like me on the outside looking in. To all those going down range and those that have gone before, God bless and God's speed
Thanks for the insight. I have been struggling with the idea of going contract with the justification of having more time with my family and being able to pay off the mortgage in 2 years. I spent 8 years active and now continue in the reserves and am a full time police officer. I find with my schedule now, its worse than being deployed, we work nights, we work weekends, we get called in on days off , we get held over at the end of our shifts, it's hard to justify to a family that they are more important but you still aren't there because of work. At least when I was gone for deployment they weren't disappointed 4 times a week because they were expecting me home and couldn't make it on time. Alot to digest with your info.
Kit Badger thanks for the video, I was in LE and wildly successful, but then things went Bad, the economy crashed, the towns went under, and it only got worse from there, I had really considered contracting as a way to try to come back, and I have even been rationalizing it in my head just the way you described, for now I’ve chosen an alternate route, but the thought Still haunts me, so I appreciate your insight from that side
Nick it does really suck brother. Free advise: don’t be married to your dept. there are ALWAYS better gigs, better depts, and you gotta keep digging and be ready to jump. It’s about you and yours.
Incredibly stupid. You should speak to a self made investor before you think that sinking money into real estate is a good idea. Your primary home is not an investment and you'll lose it come recession and tax hikes, forced to sell at a discount.
Can confirm, dad did some contracting for 4 years and it broke our family up. Once he got back it took years to mend our family back together, and if my mom wasn't so forgiving she would have left around the 3rd or 4th time. Money was great but we blew it all. I'm going to do the same thing but while I'm single and much younger and even then it's probably going to suck. But I dont have a wife or kids so I'm not leaving anybody back home that I would hurt.
I really appreciate this. I’m graduating high school in a couple months, currently in Navy DEP, and am going in as a CT. But, I’ve always considered crossing rates and working in Special Forces and maybe contracting after- I have a lot more time to think it all through, but this was a really important video for me to see. Cannot thank you enough
Went contracting three months after leaving the army at the age of 24 chewed through two relationships and learnt alot about myself, left that life now Have a house half paid off and happily married. Couldn't have done it without contracting, you gotta have a plan though and stick to it
Facts. I spent 10 years in. Two companies. “One more deployment.” Pro: Visited countries during leave I never would have otherwise. Built a couple friendships for life.
One of the very few videos I’ve seen that held my attention, detailed some excellent personal/professional TRUE LIFE Deep Truths Which Young military minded Americans NEED TO HEAR & Take To HEART! Some of your points (i.e. Tooth Loss!) are really awesome with respect to lifelong decisions. IOW’s, Think BEFORE you leap..., deploy.., sign on that damned dotted line! This is a video I’ll save🇺🇸 Oh, Thank You for Posting this.
that was deep im enlisting into the Marine Corps and doing security contracting after ive done my time in the military i'll for sure have an exit plan but nothings changed my mind about it
If you like the "experience" (embrace the suck) and you don't make shitty decisions back in the states, you should be okay outside of the obvious risk of grave injury or death.
Some say he’s still putting wood on the fire to this day
Well played sir...
Bahahahahahahahahahaha
Hah!
😂😂
L O L!!
Just got out of the Marines, too. Going through divorce, questionable spending habits. This sounds perfect for me
kitbadger.com/catharsis-divorce-and-the-range/ Good luck.
Yes
Im 19 and im trying to get in the marines but i gotta take the asvab and im not the best at math any tips to get better?
@@vincent_8817 take some practice tests? I took the asvab so many years ago that I can't really remember what was on it. Ask your recruiter
James Francis Heffron happy veterans day
Pro: *$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$*
Con: It wont buy you air support.
Yep, lots of contracts you have no cover whatsoever if things go sideways.
@@KitBadger
Hypothetically If there was US or UK air support around your position could you request for support?
Garrett B NCR yes, but you’d be unlikely to get it.
@@prophetcitrus9638
Sure, request away 🙄
@@prophetcitrus9638
you don't want that bill if they did. It would clear out the whole teams bank accounts haha.
I have seen contracts as low as 100 bucks a day. at that point id just enlist again
The Reaper u r high
@@blykoger no u
@@SovietRussia777 no u
GardaWorld was offering me like $210 a day working 12hr shifts 6 days a week. I thought he was pulling a prank on me, why would I go back to Afghanistan for 15% more than I make now while getting to go home every night
AtomicCheesegod 😂🤣
Worked from ‘09-‘13.
Every purchase was measured in “this many work days to pay for it”.
Left home 3 days after our first baby girl was born and came home 3 days before her 3rd month birthday in 2013. Wife said us or contracts and I picked us. You hit the nail on the head with that part. We had the perfect marriage that survived that but not breast cancer. She passed a little over a month ago but praise God for two beautiful daughters from our time on earth. She enjoyed your vids! Keep rocking on man!
I'm so sorry for your loss man. I'm happy you were able to make that decision to not contract, and have that time though.
I prayed for you, man.
bacara18 Wtf is your problem. Of course he isn’t fine
@bacara18 Where in his comment did he mention he's fine? Show a little tact dude, seriously.
God bless you and your daughters.
pro : Good money, suits, Guns
Con: Gets killed by the protagonist
Damned that gray bandana guy...
XD
Pro: gets paid
Con: gets deservedly killed
Work for the protagonist and join his crew. Hope that you’re not the one that dies for dramatic effect to advance the protagonist’s character building.
Unless you are the protagonist
Came here to learn how to keep a fire going.
Was not dissapointed.
Hahaha, pro tip: Don't get rotten wood. I was too lazy after processing that massive limb to go scrounge more. :)
I know its a joke but the title doesnt mention anything about wood aswell as the thumbnail
raheem segowski depends how you read it
@@KitBadger was gonna say, that wood is garbage lol. What i do in a crappy wood situation is just make sure good amounts if air get under the wood, eliminates all the smoke and will make sure that even the Pulpiest wood will burn.
@@on1yone1nchw1de3 ya, unfortunately it was hard to do. My fire kept sinking... :)
Pros: make decent money
Cons: slow decent into bankruptcy, alcoholism and cool M4 selfies
BMW selfies or AR-15 selfies? ...Both.
I call that ascending 😎
Depends on the contract
@@granola661 lmao right?
descent*
I was one of the lucky ones. I was married when I joined and made it through my 23 year career with my marriage in tact. When I retired I told my wife that I was thinking about contracting and mentioned how good the money would be to my wife. She said, “good, it will help you pay the divorce attorney”
That was the last time I mentioned it.
Hahaha, well played. :)
Remmy Mills do our wives talk to each other? Because mine said the exact same thing!
So basically it's cheaper to keep her at this point!
I own some older vehicles but prefer my sports car.
Remmy...do the kids look alike lol just saying. or might I say; do the kids look like you :-)
@@sherwaynem5292 😂 just calculated if you were at home 9 months before their birth.
Just felt like I came across a wise time traveler in Red Dead Redemption 2
Now time to rob him and grab that double barrel out.
Justin Macklin Sitting on lake Isabela be like:
I felt like he was on an island in Lake Isabella the whole time
You were mistaken.
😂😂😂
The job sounds a lot like a girl, working as stripper:
1) Money is good 2) can’t do it for long 3) hours are horrible 4) not good for relationships 5) constant need to justify the work 6) you need a good exit strategy because you don’t want to be that old lady scrounging around for dollar bills...
Pretty solid analogy.
Then you start your own club/mercenary operation
As they say, prostitution is the worlds oldest profession, second to that is mercenary work.
...lmfao 100% fact
Also dangerous environment
Pros: Everything is rad
Cons: Everything isn't so rad when being shot at
Honestly what he said in the video really should be shown to all kids. There were huge nuggets of wisdom here, don't let your income dictate your lifestyle spending (save money instead), recognize there isn't a get rich quick without a lot of risk, etc.
GunFundsTV mood
straight up not having a good time lol
@@marcusravaglia2532 How bout now?
Idk some dudes live for that tbh
Can someone direct me to the Trader Joe's that's paying $30 an hour?
Taylor Pinkham fr lol
Put in some time and you'll be at $25+
@@KitBadger nah
Just joining the Army can get you to 30 an hour
@@TJackSurvival lol more like 2 or 3 dollars.
Mercenary = Fights in a War. vs. Security Contractor = Protects People/Assets in Dangerous Places
Not the same thing... If you want the Definition, read the Laws of War: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercenary
See the Follow Up Video on Getting Into Security Contracting here: kitbadger.com/security-contracting-what-it-is-and-how-to-get-started/
Semper Fi,I thought about it ,but I am older now and single,still in great shape ,was and 0311,0331,& 0341 ,I was with 3/2,Lima Wpns plt.,What is the age requirements to do this ,and how long do you have to stay
Great video,
i though the possibility of dying would be the first con.. interesting outlook though
I thought the potential for death went without saying. But... :)
@@KitBadger lol it did. but, i was waiting for it like a cliffhanger action scene. may i ask;
do you find balance in nature? in regards to your choices/actions/thoughts? or, was it just for the video?
im not a veteran of any commercialized war, but, ive seen my fair share of madness, all the same.
if it makes it any uneasier, i personally find balance out there.
Cons --- 2 marriages
not seeing my children
income gained then lost because of the above.
Pros --- Money
weapons
Pretty much...
What do you mean by weapons?
You can't blame her for your mistake of getting married. Very bad choice on your part, you should know better. Men gain nothing from marriage while women gain everything.
good thing I'm single
@@harlan7777 I imagine he's speaking from the standpoint of somewhere like the UK, where firearms are all but outlawed.
He looks like a Division 2 character.
No, division characters look like him.
Pro: Lots of good food.
Con: No Lamb Sauce.
LOL
Some say Ramsay is still waiting for the LAAAAMMBB SAAAAUUUCEEEE
I'm out
Where's the fucking lamb sauce.
Its all good I prefer Mint Jelly on my lamb personally
In Afghanistan I remember talking to a contractor who was making six figures a year and all he did was fill up CO2 canisters for the paintball guns in the guard towers.......................jealousy level over 9000!!!!!
I remember film maker Michael Moores Fahrenheit 9-11 where a deployed US Army O-3/Captain was bitching about a PMC van driver in a FOB/forward operating base. 🙄. Like the PMC driver is not supposed to make $200000 per year? The Army captain was a big crybaby.
Damn! I'd volunteer for that job any day. lol
That income is taxed at like 50% and you're not home. I make almost as much money now as a police officer as I did after taxes back then. Plus I have a normal life now.
@@MrBadger2736 Did you have military experience prior to joining PC?
@@van-sx1332 yes
Don't know how you ended up in my recc's but damn am I glad for it, that was interesting
Right on man, thanks for watching.
Yeah, same story here, instant sub.
I have been looking into becoming a contractor for a long time, this really helped lol. Thanks
Not a bad gig, beats working at a party store in Detroit getting shot at almost every week for minimum wage.
Pretty much the same thing
@@banneduser9437 yeah bit at least as a contractor you know why you getting shot.
@@mikeanfernee2365 and you earn more money this way.
I'd rather be getting shot at for good money,then getting shot at for minimum wage,came from a pretty shitty neighborhood,so I'd like to take my chances getting paid good being shot at instead of minimum wage
Sounds like that guy really lost his head. But at least he died doing what he loved
Well played...
It’s important to give a heads up before you leave the work place
TheReal CloroxBleach wow, that’s cold. I think I’m getting a brain freeze
Pro: Money!
Con: Death.
That just sounds like life lol
Andrew K*** is that such a con?
*possible early death
Andrew K*** not that different than the military, only difference is you’re fighting just for money as opposed to money and country
@@asneakychicken322 : That's one of the major pressures so I've been told, as a soldier you can tell yourself you're there for a reason, you have a justification, something to be proud of. As a contractor, especially after something goes wrong, your first thought is usually "Why the hell am I here? Is a load of paper worth this shit?"
I love your style of video mate, you splitting branches and throwing them into a fire with running water behind you and snow everywhere is extremely calming and chill.
Thanks Peter!
Agreed, and the content format is perfect. This is good shit man.
This is like talking to him sitting on a log next to you. A guy talking to another dude. Like your actually there in some far ways. Good vid
And his voice sounds perfect and soothing, too. Very easy to listen to.
@@KitBadger Agreed with that guy, the fireside chat is really underrated. By the way, on the difference between mercs and contractors, what's the assessment on being a merc? Is it even possible without being seedy as fuck these days? I know people used to slip off to other parts of the world and fight wherever in the 70's.
I really enjoyed my time as a Contractor. I spent just under 25yrs. I made anywhere from a shitty $200 A day in the beginning (Late 80s) to as much as $2500 a day on a really sketchy Contract for a outta country 8 days. I was more concerned about making it home than any one of my 8 deployments as a RANGER. Once my daughter was born it was time to start getting off the titty! I don't regret doing almost everything I went through on the job!🥋🤼♂️ #RLTW
Judo or wrestling, what do you recomend more ?
@srbce8355 how old are you? I started wrestling in middle school and Judo in my junior year in HS.
@@sugewhitejacoby8654 im 30, used to do BJJ but finded not that practical like they sell themselves to be
I really enjoy the B-Mo patch on his arm. There's a man I can trust.
I'm glad I'm not the only one that saw that.
What’s B-Mo
@@itswednesdaymydudes8631 character from Adventure Time
I was just about to say 90% of the guys that come to this video probably have no clue who BMO is and here I find your comment. Proud of you
@chase H. What is your dp from, out of curiosity
I've never been a contractor myself, but my older brother started with Blackwater in 04 and stayed with them up until 08 before going to work with triple canopy. I watched him live the high life for many years but unfortunately now after 10 years of Contracting in Iraq I've had to sit here and watch him lose his $140,000 SUV his $300,000 condo in Atlanta due to severe PTSD and alcoholism and at the age of 47 probably won't be with us much longer. It's an absolute shame that there's not some sort of Exit Plan for these contractors who spend 10 years overseas and are expected to come back here and live a civilian life without thinking that every animal carcass or shoe box on the side of the road is an IED. I would literally give anything to have my brother back to normal but unfortunately I guess he's had to see and do too many things that he just can't unsee. Thanks for taking the time to make the video.
I pray your brother has a full recovery
@@why33-00 Thank you!!
It might sound simplistic but if you're truly concerned about losing him, Jesus is the answer for everyone, especially soldiers. He gives infinite purpose to life as He turns a sinner into a saint and a priest ready to share the Good News of eternal life with others. That's eternal reward and infinite meaning to the grunt who used to think he had the most important job in the world protecting others and making the world a better place.
The second is the peace that passeth understanding from the Prince of Peace Himself. This does away with PTSD because there's no longer a fear of death (or anything irrational like a door slamming behind you) because the perfect love of God casts out all fear for fear has to do with judgment and hell, but the saved have no need to worry about this.
I hope that helps.
www.HeHasAnswers.com
There a lot of serious veteran groups that help guys out like your brother. I would seriously recommend getting him with one of them. It might be a second chance for him.
JC Har-v his story is all too common bro
>Join Military
>Join Contracting
>Stuff as much money as you can manage into a 401k
>Get a civilian job and retire early
Thanks for this, im frugal by nature and contracting is shaping up to be a good move for me.
Staying away from the drugs and alcohol is also probably a good bet.
Nice man, that path will probably serve you quite well. And yes, plenty people get fired over that bullshit.
The 2 Mersk Alabama SEALs found dead, NCIS-USCG case, reportedly had heroin 🤔. They were PMCs.
Dank Dark why would you put it into a taxable retirement account when you can put it into a Roth IRA and receive the money tax free at 59 1/2? You like paying excessive amount of taxes?
DrUgS?
I agree with you! I tell people join the military, then get contract, DOD, or civilian job. Buy a house, put money in Roth Ira & 401/403. Don't try to keep up with the Jones's and have $50,000-$100,000 emergency cash in the bank for a job loss or any thing that comes up. I survived the recession barely and I have lived life as a saver and I also have had $100,000 in car and credit card debt when I thought I was a "Baller". I up righted my ship and now I am fiscally wise with cash, mutual funds, home equity in one of the most expensive real estate markets and no debt (just mortgage). As most people age and make mistakes they will become more responsible with their money.
"I'm not saying It's the reason for my divorce, but it absolutely contributed to my divorce" -every divorced bro ever 😂
This has got to be one of the most brutally honest videos i've ever seen. Sharing the pain couldnt have been easy, but you probably made some folks second think their decisons.
Just hoping to lay the pros/cons out there, help people make a honest choice. :)
@@KitBadger
I second the above. Never heard of you, no offense. ;-)
_______
Blown away by your candor, your gut level honesty, and your realistic and accurate depiction of the job. Sorry for your losses, glad to hear you've found balance in recognizing daily gems, so to speak. Some moments are simply irreplaceable. Sometimes the most important job we have as men is just to be there for the ones who need us most, and there is no paycheck worth trading that kind of peace of mind...
Also, are you trying to give a comeback moment to the word "rad"? I lolled in your general direction...
And hey, thanks for making a video this real on this topic without any pretense or toughguyness.
Thanks man, I appreciate the kind words. And yes, bringing Rad back. :)
@Siward Beorn right on man!
@Siward Beorn Bruh shut up i am cringing.
You can tell this guy has experience from the way he expresses himself.
I respect his experience, but he just sounds like he's full of himself
Caleb Bolton, how exactly is he supposed to sound? He’s just laying out his experience as it relates to someone getting into the contracting game. Sounds like you’re jealous... You’re not only jealous, you don’t have the balls to step into his shoes. Keep on gaming...
@@calebbolton you just jealous
I get it for $200 a day or 100k each mission
@@martylucas8557 He can sound however he wants, I'm just saying that from my perspective, he sounds condescending and as if he is better than others. I wouldn't like talking to anyone that sounds like that even if they were a president or celebrity. You're right that he's trying to help people who are interested in this field. I'm not jealous and I'm not sure why you think you're qualified to call me jealous, all I said was that I don't really like the way he talks. I don't hate him or resent him lol. And you're right I wouldn't step into his shoes, so what? That has nothing to do with my comment. "Keep on gaming" ??? I don't play video games anymore, I guess just another assumption you had?
Caleb, let’s just put it this way...he’s earned the right to sound however he pleases. When I listen to people that have experience give advice, no matter what the profession, I’m able to get past issues like...he’s a jerk off, asshole or condescending and key in on what he’s trying to convey.
As a current security contractor, I agree with everything you said. I want to quit, but the money is just too good. I am constantly tired, angry, and hate my life. I keep telling myself "I'll quit soon. This will be my last job" and it never comes. The money just provides so much for my family and opportunities for them. I had an exit plan initially after 4 years, and then I was going to go back to school to study and do something else... I'm into my 10th year now as a security contractor, and it is just all about the money. It keeps luring me back. This is my sad, pathetic existence. I'll probably be that guy in his 50s that is still doing this line of work because I don't know any other way. I'd say avoid security contract work if you can... AT ALL COSTS!
No debt is worth your life, just remember you can't go to jail for debt, and all debt is off your credit report after 7 years.
The money will keep luring you back since you don't create a plan for your money to earn money for you. Your luck will run out my guy. You can't just freestyle your way to a steady life and good health if you're doing a job like that.
When's the last time you sat down with a financial advisor or someone who has wealth and knows about investments? You're good with a gun, but you're nit good with money. The same way somebody pays you to be a gunfighter, you need to pay someone to be your financial advisor. Sit down with them and figure out investment strategies that will yield results, so that you don't have to depend on risking your life for money. Because if like you said the money is good doing contracting work, you should be able to create a strong and diverse investment portfolio that ranges from real estate, stocks, forex, treasury bonds, crypto, and small businesses.
Working for money is played out. Make your money work for you instead.
@@PermanentHigh Is forex a legitimate way to make money, it has always seemed like a scam to me?
I think Realestate is a major investment, and best way to invest. But will also take the most attention, hiring/ firing property managers, evicting tenants, and accounting for vacancy, and repairs.
I'm a nurse, and got my realtor license to invest, and going to enlist in the air force reserves, and the 15k bonus I'm going to get half, and all of that is going to go to a quadplex or multi family unit, and rent it out, down payment with FHA loan 3.5%, or 5% conventional loan.
How do I do this contracting?
How much do you typically make per month?
This is the most realistic, rationale and grounded advice I have ever heard from a PMC. Good job 👍
This guy is the Mr. Rogers of the Marine Corps and security contracting. Really nonchalant and passive... until shit gets real then I bet he could do some damage. Lol!
Blake Ranew no he wasn’t
timmybmn how do I find those videos
@@dingusmcgringle9741 It's warranted confidence, people who can't back up their words talk the loudest because they cant actually prove themselves, so they talk big. Guys like this don't need to talk big.
Damn. That location is awesome. Something that seems to be common in a lot of your videos. Viewer definitely appreciates.
Thanks Shane, I appreciate that.
@@KitBadger What state do you live in? If you don't mind me asking
@@sk84life311 Idaho.
@@KitBadger Thanks for the reply. That's such a beautiful spot. I've never seen snow and only even seen mountains a few times so that type of beauty is out of my wheelhouse.
@Erik Barnes nice, it is incredible country up there.
Can we have an Advice by the Campfire with Ivan series? None of this video applied to me and I watched the whole thing. The only thing that would have made it better is if you’d started out wearing a plate carrier, entered frame left, took it off and slung it while switching out for the puffy coat, changed out of your gaiters and boots and into some Lems, and played a punk cover of Mr. Rogers Neighborhood as an intro.
Hahaha, I'll see what I can do Drew. :)
Now that would be rad.
This! At least one video please and thank you
Yes! Mr. Loomis’ neighborhood.
It will be like a little gun story telling ASMR! Roll it.
"its a trap, you make 6 figures for working half a year..."
wish i could get trapped like that...
The New Centrist end up in a body bag
If you make 6 figures for a few years, you can’t go back. That’s it, plan on retiring at 7 figures.
@@RobertsIslandLivingAdventures that's why you just grab all that money, invest in index funds and dividend yielding stocks, and let that sweet dividend money just flow in every month while the bulk of it grows every year lol.
@@ItstwofourteenToo bad these people are too dumb to invest the money. They buy 100k trucks and 50k gun collections and pay child support instead.
@@petedavidson2087 "these people", who exactly are you talking about? Everybody has their vices, child support? Really?
I cant explain the amount of joy and happiness I felt when seeing my 6 yr son talk with me about his tooth falling out and the tooth-fairy coming to get it and give him something for it. You couldn't be righter in the sense of missing the little things. Thanks for reminding our brothers of the sacrifice between money and true-joy.
No problem Shaun, hopefully it helps people to enter into it with their eyes wide open...
Fiscal discipline - number one killer - I am now a commercial diver I see all the same problems as I did as a contractor - but it all becomes such a life style I cant imagine not travelling and not being "isolated" from things - still no wife or kids and will be 50 soon - its always one more job -
great video and so true ---thanks
Yes, lots of parallels to those well paying jobs that take you away. Thanks for watching man.
Bro what battalion? I'm diving in Florida now but I've been considering contracting.
Youre only as good as your last dive.
@@br0ke_billi0naire so true ...lol
@@odinguerard3109 sorry late - i was 25th , Dyncorp, now live in Louisiana ,run commercial dive company
Had a buddy who was a contractor...was addicted to war. Came home and died from a heart attack in his 20s training to become a state trooper. I think the stress got to him eventually.
Damn :(
Damn that’s crazy. I’ve never met anyone like that. Would you be able to share a few stories or memories you have of him being a “war addict”? Like why he loved it so much and etc
@Delon Duvenage even for a guy in his 20's though?
@Delon Duvenage haha time to eat better I guess. Thanks for the info
By any chance was he trying to be a state trooper in ny?
Speaking for myself and my time as a contractor, this guy is on point with most points. I was not good with my money on the first contract. Couldn't hold a relationship for the life of me. Missed out on holidays, b-days, etc. Finally learned to manage my money before resigning. One thing he didn't mention as a con was whoever was the gov't agency running the contract, I encountered a lot of college degreed idiots with little to no combat experience making stupid decisions. And also being threatened of being fired if you don't do what they say. Can't make decisions on your own and if you do and they don't like it, you're fired. So always walking on eggshells. All in all, the pros were more temporary and the cons more long lasting. But I still have friends doing it and I support them 100%. If it works for them, who am I to say they're wrong. It just didn't work for me to do it long term. Great way tho if you want to get debt free and just work a year or two, contracting is the way to go. Just have to make some sacrifices for that time.
Man I'm turning 29 this year. I wish I knew about this 10 years ago when I was single for 7 damn years.... ugh
packlesswolf1 the squidward picture makes the comment that much better😂
#Ihaveagirlfriend
CanadianCCP yea but you live in shit hole canada
@Kyle Reyes good luck for your career in contracting.
Btw bro that wanting action again never goes away... im telling you ,, war is some kinda drug... when your there you want out but when your out you want back in...
Cons: possibility of being strung up from a bridge
looks like some bandit hasn't learned the ways of the sneaki breeki yet.
Anthony G he’s referencing Fallujah.
Liam Alsa big fuckin wooooosh
@@TheRealRusDaddy I also thought he was talking about Fallujah so what went over my head?
LtDanTheMan07 I knew those guys
Very Good one, thanks for sharing. I will just add my experience for European contractors hope you don't mind. So I was about to start this lifestyle 7 8 years ago, when I finished my time with the French paratroopers. I started Digging up info, I then have smelled the bullcrap behind this business, and renounced it. First of all, For European citizens and military personnel it's even harder to get acess to contracts, let alone the fact that 90% of contracts are from the US/UK contracting bodies and requiring US/UK citizens for the most. Secondly, whoever is able to provide you with an accessible contract for your citizenship situation, you'll get the shittiest Jobs ever, and least paid ones with the poorest support. It depends on the company of course but (I've been asked to bring my own weapons and gears) which is totally impossible doing so legally in the EU. Or else you will have to go and deal with Russians and Eastern Europeans, which it's not that nice at all if you are not slavic, polish Ukrainian or Russian yourself. and it's not that well paid, barely around 100 dollars a day, and it's un enjoyable at all because of the stupidity you need to deal with. Thirdly, even if you get a uk/us contract, before beginning anything they will require you a (superhero) type of curriculum... with ages of experience, a lot of war tours, and God knows what else. and if you don't have it, then you'll probably need to acces their own qualification courses, ending up to spend more than 20k in euros, just for starting the whole crap, plus, additional training money.... Basically, you're a slave, for a freaking corporation with kids able to pull out contracts, for their money making machine, that you wash and produce with your efforts and hard labour. You ending up giving up your life and money for the passion you have for war and their pockets. I said to myself Better not get involved, or if money and connection can allow it, start your own business in the sector. Don't waste time on being a freaking donkey for them. You're not in the military, there are no values and comradeship. It's just about profit and loss. Peace brothers
Things I hated about contracting.
1. Shitty military units. (They will come up with the lamest excuse to get you fired so you have to play nice or don't socialize with them)
2. The pay. (Shitty contracts sucks. Especially if you cannot climb up the contracting ladder. So "NETWORK" b/c it's up to "YOU" if you "WANT" a better job and pay)
3. Brown nosing contractors. (People love drama but be vigilant of what you say and do)
4. The smell of a shit creek, dead animals, and trash. (Get use to it. Also, don't touch anything lying around as a rule of thumb)
5. Your boss/site lead. (I had a very complacent site lead. She [just telling the truth] didn't know how to write up an SOP, let alone believed the Army had to write an SOP for us contractors. I was told by a bearded ninja to simply follow him if shit goes really bad)
Things I loved about contracting.
1. The military background of those you're surrounded with/work alongside. (It was my first time overseas so I ALWAYS asked good rifle/pistol/etc drills/techniques to improve my knowledge and skills. The guys I was with helped me a lot for a first time overseas contracting tour)
2. Range time (Because who loves shooting crates upon crates of ammo)
3. The locals (Stories about the Soviet invasion and Horse soldiers. Playing cricket was interesting but enjoyable)
4. NATO (Met a lot of awesome people from different countries. Still keep in contact with almost everyone I met)
5. The memories (Because not a lot of people will have funny, shitty, and cool memories/stories about living and working in another country)
Why I decided to stop contracting?
Even though contracting has given me one hell of an experience I won't ever forget. You can't replace "TIME" with missing out on family events. Also things "CHANGE" very quickly so what you remember seeing back at home might be different when you come home. Believe me, I'm still single with no kids before and after contracting. You're probably thinking, "WTF is this guy saying/thinking?!" Well it's simple for me. The amount of stupid shit that happens overseas from NDs (negligent discharges), fights, and etc. Yeah... it gets old fast, but apart of me still itches to go back even though I won't.
Honestly this sounds like the last art of the "right of passage" where men went on journeys to find themselves and come back to establish a legacy by making a family.
I never went in the military or anything like this but I am more familiar with former military and former inmates on the thrill of survival and living but struggle with settling down or seeing the world you know change.
Is there a minimum age required or a certain amount of military experience and do you need to specialize in a certain career to work for a private military?
@@GHSTTHERENEGADE rite of passage*
🤣🤣🤣all of a sudden it got real she was in Afghanistan
True story. :)
I avoided PMC stuff do to the terrorists, IEDs, violent attacks. It never really quited down or got less active. SW Asia, Iraq Green Zone.
I snort-laughed for a solid 30 seconds after that short story
I mean, pretty much post 2015 when convoys on land were getting more and more sparce, a lot of support and guard types get more and more removed from action (Not counting rockets or morters), so when actual stuff happens, it can hit harder than some realize
The Important stuff is not planned . . . Words of profound Wisdom Sir.
Observations Elias, thank you for watching. :)
I can just imagine you giving this talk to your kid and then you'll be like "College? Not so much."
A lot of PMC contractors have their degrees. Lots of time+GI Bill can easily lead to a Bachelors.
Love how this man has a BMO patch on his jacket straight style
“Rad” first word to learn when becoming a contractor
#truth
Single with no obligations. When keeping it real goes wrong.
Lots of paths forward...
living the life..
Think this is the first open and honest talk on the subject I've seen, usually it's rather shrouded in mystery to say the least.
People like to keep it vague, let people think it is cooler than it is. :)
I'm not even in the military but I am glad I watched this. It felt like having a deep serious talk with the older brother I never had.
Man's looking like an LL. Bean model giving me real advice. I'm taking notes.
Im dead
Hahaha
Pro: Money
Con: Money....
Quality problems.
gillecroisd 92 You're misunderstanding. First world money is "clean money". Security force money in foreign countries is usually "dirty" money. "Blood money". You may have to launder your own income, or learn your study jewelry....(dude in the video just mentioned gems)
More money more problems I guess.
The algorithm actually worked. this is awesome
Right on man, thanks for watching.
On a serious note, I have so much respect for the "realness" you just brought. I feel like contracting is glorified so much by folks who genuinely have little to no understanding of it. Thanks for bringing a honest light to this and I hope it helps someone moving forward. Looking forward to future content and you got another subscriber out of me today :)
Thanks for watching Harrison.
Con - home sick
Con - away sick
When you’re there you’re missing the wife, kids, family
When you’re home you’re missing the work and jonsing over the next contract which ruins your time with the family.
Travel is cool if you get on stuff that takes you places other than the Middle East but those are few and far between.
Food was jam up as were the gyms even on gov contracts IF you were attached to the right units.
Definitely a single mans game and go ahead and ditch any sense of patriotism and honor you have now. Most people you meet on contract won’t share those views.
Other than that. I’ve met life long friends, experienced things few could ever relate to and participated in things I’m very proud of. But it took me years to reset to normal life.
Agreed man...
What do you mean by ditching any sense of patriotism and honor you have?
The work you're doing, as seen behind the curtain, has nothing to do with either of those things you mentioned.
You hit the nail on the head mate, couldn't agree with you more.
Redbeard Combatives riddle me this Batman? How do you and whatever bunch of yahoos you’re chalked to manage to keep your TTPs inline if there’s no team mindset? I’m baffled and extremely curious about this lifestyle. 15 years SOF operations (recently retired) under my belt and can’t figure out what the deal is with this, how to get in, or even if I want to get in. I NEVER saw you guys downrange until someone got fucked up and the company’s name popped up on the following night’s CONOP or intel brief. With all that said, there’s one thing worse than being a contractor... it’s monotony. Does that make sense? I just turned down two job offers today, both doing desk shit like intel or SOF integration. I think one was at $255k with deployments. All I could think of was getting raped on taxes. I’d like to know your take on whether it’s worth it in the end, or is it just too much life pissed away for no reason other than a full wallet? Sorry about the novel, I just have to know before I step on my pecker applying to feel like I still “got it”. Appreciate the insight, man. Kit feel free to chime in on this.
Pro: 💰
Con: 💀
Basically
@@EmilSosnin Basically Life
😂
Pro: you go to exotic countries and meet new people. Con: most of those people would prefer if you were dead
😭
damn... this man has a soothing Grandpa around the fire camp vibe...🔥🔥🔥
Teejay Kush damn, you got that comment copy vibe going on. Be original douche bag
But I'm sure even in contracting, just like the military, you got that old salty grunt from [affiliation redacted] that's either the best there is at what he/she does, seen too much and can't retire, waiting to die because they don't give a fuck, or all of the above.
Yes I said he/she. May hardly ever be seen on the fictional entertainment scenes, but pretty sure women are still in the game just because.
America may discriminate, but a bullet from an enemy weapon does not.
I love how he is so chill
The most dangerous people are usually the most chill in my experience
@@MinerHoboJo I'll definitely keep an eye ouy
>security contractor
>divorced
shocking
Infantry
Deployements
Divorce
- Ex wife
- her mother
- sign me up to die anywhere, for disproportionate amount of money/risk
@@Landsersajer **sigh**
-toaster
-full tub
shocking
If you fellas are looking to come back to civilization, get a lineman apprenticeship. Similar social dynamics, stay in shape, make 100-200k per year and keep you body parts where they belong. Admittedly the divorce rate isn't that much better if you're working out of town - an observation not an experience.
From an ex- combat engineer
Planning on using some of my post 9 11 to go to northwest lineman college for the 15 week program. In your opinion is that a worthwhile Investment or should I skip it and apply for an apprenticeship with a local utility? Thanks in advance.
@@jfeeble I'm up in British Columbia, But I did do a similar 8 week program up here before applying for jobs. I have no regrets taking it. It helps get your foot in the door, and a step up on other applicants. I'd still apply at local utilities in the meantime. If you do go to the college first, don't get offended when guys tell you to do things differently in the field. Oh, and get your air brakes and commercial drivers license. Having my class 1 got me my first job, no interview.
Good luck!
@@Levicard088 Many thanks, you confirmed a few rumors/suspicions.
@@jfeeble skip the lineman college and just do the union apprenticeship. Or go Air Guard and go 3E0X1 then go to non-union or union contractor.
no salary compensates for the satisfaction of a good manhunt.
Yeah I'm not gonna lie, having someone's head land in front of me when I'm just doing some logistics job, I'd need a shrink too.
come on man, don't lose your head over it
Hey, when you're doing that kind of job, you need to stand head and shoulders above the rest! 🤷♂️
@PennsyltuckyPatriot I'm a civilian nurse, and I thought it was pretty funny. Semper Fi.
Everyone saying how funny it is.. keyboard warriors smh
"Some people get ahead of themselves..." **Keeps doing logistic work**
He's right about the rationalizing, the world doesn't stop when you're deployed and nothing is on hold, it's rough to adjust back to normal life after being deployed
I feel like a lot of this advice extends to other occupations such as working on an oil rig or at a remote mining operation, etc.
Absolutely.
In my experience, the oilfield is all about location/time at work/how well crude oil is trading, so yeah, it's very similar lol.
With respect to money, absolutely
@@christopherascherl2411 higher the risk, higher the reward.
@@supersmasha5560 With respect to the oilfield, I didn't find it particularly difficult or dangerous; the hours could suck (but you also got long breaks, especially if you were working on a schedule) and I disliked the work and some of the people. I got paid a small salary but it was mainly about your day-rate, which could very tremedously based on what type of tools you were running and who you were working with. Also, you start buying things you shouldn't and using your day-rate to justify it. I was pretty good but I did buy an AR-15 barrel for $1K because it was less than two days work.
Single, cheap, good spirit, about to get out the Navy and a born hustler.
Sounds like a good idea to me!
It can work for some, give it a go if you think it is a good fit. :)
I look into DynaCorp or Reed. Avoid G4S security. They are awful. They had a scandal with the American Embassy, Kabul Afghanistan. There are lower rate PSC sites like Kuwait, UAE, Oman. Also SE Asia. Pacific.
@@DavidLLambertmobile
Thanks man I'll definitely keep that on mind. Honestly I'm just trying to make enough so I can buy a house in cash lol
Do they want navy dudes?
@@DavidLLambertmobile Do US/European based companies hire internationally?
Mandatory content for those thinking about the contracting lifestyle... Absolutely spot on Ivan!!!
Thanks man.
Con: more contractors have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan than service members, and you aren't tracked. Just call them mercenaries, or change history books to call mercenaries contractors.
Not the same, unless you’re making up definitions.
Oldest trade in history
contractors are the true american spearhead for wars, after all its easier to deal with the PR of some contractors fucking up and calling in an airstrike on a fishing village than if they were your own grunts.
@@s.sradon9782 Or massacring random Iraqi civilians at a roundabout.
But just rebrand and you're fine!
@@mustardmanmax5733 denial of future soldiers to the enemy's cause.
Not a war crime!!!
This video was really well done and honest. I experienced the same thing working on the oil fields doing shift work. Divorce rate for long term employees was 80-90%, the money was all spent trying to catch up on the everyday life that I missed, and the savings at the end was around 15% of what I could have saved.
You have to miss birthdays, anniversaries, and hardest were the funerals that you can't attend for friends and family that you truly love. It's not all bad, but my advice would be to hire a financial adviser and lock down a rock solid financial plan so you can do high paying shift work for a couple years and then walk away having rental properties or something that you can live off of and have long term stability.
guy looks less than 30 but speaks with the wisdom of a 85 year old, who did not manage to live their life...
'G-Me what wisdom? He just has too much free time to think stuff through.
Literalpervertedloser so thinking to much is bad? Not sure what the point of your comment is...
He sounds like a normal dude in Canada.
the guy looks 40+
Tamarick Roberts who said it was bad? Certainty not me.
I agree to the whole, waving the American flag thing. If you wanna do something cause you wanna wave the American flag, just join the military. You WEAR the flag.
caleb Kovarovic not in the corps
@@gaberesendez6492 That's right, that's true. Actually... Come to think of it... I think only the Army and Navy (with their green camo) wear the flag. Air Force as well if they're wearing the Army Scorpion pattern.
You can’t really get into contracting without having been in the military/law enforcement.
Pro: money
Con: money
Life really yabba dabba do be like that sometimes. rip
Just invest intelligently
This guy talks real slow for having a campfire on ice.
Become an IT guy and get a nice cushy DOD IT contract. More money and no real danger.
You also don't have to be a "Bang Bang" contractor, you can go over with a logi company. I was a plumber in the Anbar province from 2008 - 2010. Money wasn't all that great, about 80K a year but it got me through the recession.
What IT work do you do? Going to be studying CyberSecurity this year and apply for a scholarship which would contractually obligate me to work for the DoD for a few years post-university.
Jeffrey Samuels I’ve done the thing you want to do, go COMPTIA, lots of opportunities and go to at least security +
I was amazed at the quality of the sound, video and lighting. It was literally as if you were on a sound stage.
Thanks man, I try. :)
This is the most relaxed explanation of a job description and pro/con I have seen.
Cons:
Multiple failed relationships.
Trouble with Internal/Interpol.
Battered and bruised.
Money - you might get burned.
Pros:
Money - if you dont get burned.
Pretty much in a professional environment. (Also depends).
Interpol has big gae
This has been the first video I’ve seen someone genuine about contracting. Thanks man
No problem Roberto, thanks for watching.
You ain’t making $250/day at Trader Joe’s man
Kaleb Booher minimum wage payment after taxes... You get what? $80 for 8 hours
Okay, but I know people making $25 an hour there. So call it $200 a day? Either way, don't miss the forest for the trees buddy. :)
@@KitBadger great video.. I learned a lot watching it. Although $200 a day at an hourly stateside job is usually close to $125 after taxes. My question is are there pros to the way overseas contracting income is taxed?
That stateside job isn’t a 1099 and usually has benefits though. 🤷♂️
@@KitBadger Im asking sincerely because I dont know. How heavily is the contracting money taxed? Do you know if it has been effected since changes in the tax code?
"golden handcuffs man" - that hit deep
It is a trap...
Same as oil rigs, mining logging camps really, good n bad..... can get set up very well in relativley short order if disciplined
solid advice
Hard learned. :)
5 years contractor, pay is definitely great and 401K got way plused up
whats your experience? and what's the monthly pay like?
What were the steps u took to be there and how old r u now. Start 4 yrs in the marines?....than move up the chain of contracting?
Another con is that certain jobs back in the States frown upon military contractors because they see us as “mercenaries” or they only know about “the Blackwater incident”. It took me a few years to land a good job back in the States, got turned down multiple times for the above reason. Just sad.
Yeah, you drop that stuff off your LinkedIn. I live in softy central Silicon Valley. I've mastered hiding my power levels and I was just Regular Army.
@@RickJamesCouch That would work if you applied to 7/11 but try to leave a 4yr gap in your resume and see how far that flies on a background investigation. I currently know of 8 fellow contractors that ran into the same problems and 7 of them went back to contracting because they couldn't find a good paying job due to no relevant job experience or the liberal view of people who serve in the military and us "hired guns".
@@8654ZuluFoxtrot I see most contracts require an "active security clearance". How tf am I supposed to find work without one?
@@nfthero4280 If you are new to contracting the first company you apply to will normally process your clearance through whichever agency the contract is for, you will "sit on the bench" until it goes through.
@@8654ZuluFoxtrot wrong. I've landed two contracts at fortune 500, one of which was a FAANG. One of the worst for SJW nonsense at that and I am making more $$ than if I stayed in. You'd be surprised how many vets drop even their service from their LinkedIn. Not just because of SJWs but it ages you too.
Hey Kit. I’ve been watching some of your content and I got to say that this has been one of your most authentic reflections. I appreciate the honest perspective and most of all your transparency in sharing your experiences. I encourage you to keep up the good work brotha! Also, thanks for your vids on the SW & HB. I ultimately decided on the SW due to availability and price point with a few upgrades. It was your content that aided me in my decision. Again, many thanks for the information you put out!
Thanks for the kind words Eric, and I'm glad I was able to help.
Really, really good video. You really nailed all the good, bad and ugly points. I played in that pool as a single guy in the early 70's, then again as married with children, in the mid to late 80's. There were pros and cons to both. My wife actually preferred when I was gone and she got mailbox money :) Much like yourself, my marriage didn't survive it. If your a single, adrenaline junkie that can also manage money, it's a great way to collect stories for your future grandchildren :) I have a friend, pretty deep into his 60's, that builds and remodels State Department Embassies around the world. Similar traps to fall into there. After all these years, all he has to show, is a storage unit full of expensive toys he visits on occasion. Glad to were able to get out with your sanity. Beautiful location you filmed at !! Thanks.
It is a hard place to climb out of... Thanks for watching buddy.
I have a deep respect for those that have served and for their family's. The words you spoke carry tons of weight even to someone like me on the outside looking in.
To all those going down range and those that have gone before, God bless and God's speed
"Have an exit strategy" Indeed this is salient advice for every situation.
Agreed.
The icing on the cake is the iconic THPS soundtrack- Keep it up!!
Haha, thanks man.
Yo Johnny can you tell me what the song is by any chance? I can't figure it out
It's a trap, but I only have to re-model my house one more time and I'm done! Haha. Thank you for the great content Kit!
Thanks for watching man. 🤘
wait, i don't have to shave? sign me up!
Mandatory Contractor Beard...
To Valhalla
@@KitBadger I barely sprout hair... guess I better go apply for mall security.
@@Callsign_Prophet lol
@@Callsign_Prophet LMAO
Thanks for the insight. I have been struggling with the idea of going contract with the justification of having more time with my family and being able to pay off the mortgage in 2 years. I spent 8 years active and now continue in the reserves and am a full time police officer. I find with my schedule now, its worse than being deployed, we work nights, we work weekends, we get called in on days off , we get held over at the end of our shifts, it's hard to justify to a family that they are more important but you still aren't there because of work. At least when I was gone for deployment they weren't disappointed 4 times a week because they were expecting me home and couldn't make it on time. Alot to digest with your info.
Ya, the LE route isn't easy. I left LE for contracting. Tough call man...
Kit Badger thanks for the video, I was in LE and wildly successful, but then things went Bad, the economy crashed, the towns went under, and it only got worse from there, I had really considered contracting as a way to try to come back, and I have even been rationalizing it in my head just the way you described, for now I’ve chosen an alternate route, but the thought Still haunts me, so I appreciate your insight from that side
Nick it does really suck brother. Free advise: don’t be married to your dept. there are ALWAYS better gigs, better depts, and you gotta keep digging and be ready to jump. It’s about you and yours.
Incredibly stupid. You should speak to a self made investor before you think that sinking money into real estate is a good idea. Your primary home is not an investment and you'll lose it come recession and tax hikes, forced to sell at a discount.
Can confirm, dad did some contracting for 4 years and it broke our family up. Once he got back it took years to mend our family back together, and if my mom wasn't so forgiving she would have left around the 3rd or 4th time. Money was great but we blew it all.
I'm going to do the same thing but while I'm single and much younger and even then it's probably going to suck. But I dont have a wife or kids so I'm not leaving anybody back home that I would hurt.
Hey, it's been four years. How did it go?
How did HE break up the family when HE was paying
@@antoniocharbonae8650😅
I really appreciate this. I’m graduating high school in a couple months, currently in Navy DEP, and am going in as a CT. But, I’ve always considered crossing rates and working in Special Forces and maybe contracting after- I have a lot more time to think it all through, but this was a really important video for me to see. Cannot thank you enough
Awesome Sam, I'm glad to hear that.
Went contracting three months after leaving the army at the age of 24 chewed through two relationships and learnt alot about myself, left that life now Have a house half paid off and happily married. Couldn't have done it without contracting, you gotta have a plan though and stick to it
Absolutely Sam, way to come out on the other side.
Imagine this dude picking off some car bomber with the BMO patch on
Takes all kinds man. Takes all kinds.
Facts.
I spent 10 years in. Two companies.
“One more deployment.”
Pro: Visited countries during leave I never would have otherwise. Built a couple friendships for life.
One of the very few videos I’ve seen that held my attention, detailed some excellent personal/professional TRUE LIFE Deep Truths Which Young military minded Americans NEED TO HEAR & Take To HEART! Some of your points (i.e. Tooth Loss!) are really awesome with respect to lifelong decisions. IOW’s, Think BEFORE you leap..., deploy.., sign on that damned dotted line! This is a video I’ll save🇺🇸 Oh, Thank You for Posting this.
Thanks for the kind words David.
Very accurate information.... And yes the money gets most people. Discipline and exit strategy is key!
that was deep im enlisting into the Marine Corps and doing security contracting after ive done my time in the military i'll for sure have an exit plan but nothings changed my mind about it
If you like the "experience" (embrace the suck) and you don't make shitty decisions back in the states, you should be okay outside of the obvious risk of grave injury or death.
My dude really talking about contracting and hardships with a Bimo patch.
That’s awesome.