One of the key components that you learn in the Army is to always have a battle buddy. Sometimes, they are simply referred to as “battle” or my battle”, the Air Force refers to them as “Wingmen”, but the principle is the same; one must always have a battle buddy nearby.
The usefulness of a battle buddy in combat is clear—you need to always have someone that you can rely on and that can rely on you. In garrison, or home station, this battle buddy can be someone to depend on to help in day today work and social activities. They are there to help you avoid mistakes and to pick up the slack when you miss something. When I am traveling alone, I always am able to find another Soldier and “Battle Buddy-up” with them to help each other through the airport; helping each other find the right gates, watching each others gear as you run into the news stand, or make sure you are awake when the plane starts boarding.
This concept of having a Battle Buddy is also a key component of the Christian life. Jesus sent the disciples out by twos. And the book of Proverbs says: “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. (PROV;27:17, ESV)Again, the principle is clear; it is always best to have someone to watch your back, to stand with you, and to have someone to depend on and to depend on you. Where do you find battle buddies to support you? I suggest that you begin at your local church or military chapel—there you will be able to find others who are also looking for battle buddies like you.