What is war really like?

As a Vietnam Vet, exPOW, I pray no one ever has to see what war is really like. Its way beyond your wildest, and worst nightmare ever and that's putting it nicely.  There aren't enough words that can describe what war is like and its lasting effect on those who been there Until men grow up and quit being little boys and understand what Peace and Christmas are for, there will be wars  that where there really are no winners and the damage they cause last forever.  But maybe someday at Christmas there will be everlasting peace on earth

Lots of boredom interspersed with moments of maniacal action. Usually the training kicks in when there is a combat situation and you don't think about what you just did and what happened until later.

That is the usual. When things really go South in combat then you either handle it or not, but either way many can die and many are wounded.

I was a door gunner in Vietnam who had everything from cross bow bolts to bullets put into my copter, but I was never hit though I saw those that were. 

Like something you don't ever wish to happen during your lifetime. Being scared 24/7 . Always dirty out in the bush. Trust me, you don't want to know any more. I hope for your sake that you never have to experience any part of it in any way, shape, or form. Be real thankful if you never have to find out the truth.

War / combat is emotionally and physically draining. Once the "pixie dust from training" wears off and you are "in country" the pucker factor sets in. You are tense 24 / 7. You trust very few people. You begin to count the days then the hours till you can return home. You see and smell things you pray you can forget. 

The worst is, many of us wound up doing things we would really like to forget. My worst memory is the stench of death.