Exploring the military lifestyle | Military Culture

Observation Post is the Military Times one-stop shop for all things off-duty. Stories may reflect author observations.

What the Army’s top enlisted soldier was like as a drill sergeant

A soldier recounts that time at basic training when Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Grinston completely smoked their platoon.

By James Clark

2 days ago

West Point grad writes emotional letter to his Plebe self

“If there’s one thing I hope you’d do differently, it’s spend less time caring about school.”

By Sarah Sicard

3 days ago

The challenge of portraying America’s first president in film

George Washington has been the subject of a few films, but experts say a heroic Hollywood treatment isn't necessary.

By Sarah Sicard

5 days ago

WWI-era biplane loses war against gravity (again)

Why do Kentucky pilots keep crashing World War I-era planes? Maybe it's because they fix them and fly them again.

By Davis Winkie

HBO film based on NSA leaker Reality Winner slated for May 29 release

"Reality" premieres on May 29 on Max.

By Sarah Sicard

6 must-see World War II documentaries

Numerous documentaries have ventured to convey the immense sacrifices of WWII.

By Sarah Sicard

‘Oppenheimer’ trailer wrestles with explosive conclusion to WWII

“Oppenheimer” hits theaters on July 21.

By Sarah Sicard

How WWII helped produce the savory bacon pasta known as Carbonara

Carbonara, as it’s known today, is a pasta dish consisting of eggs, pecorino cheese, black pepper, and guanciale.

By Sarah Sicard

Marines’ before-and-after portraits show the misery of OC spray

Nothing quite prepares one for the trauma of OC spray.

Reddit post leads to top Army leaders crashing soldier’s reenlistment

What better way to celebrate your final reenlistment than to have two of the Army's most senior leaders take part?

By Zamone Perez