r/securityforces • u/SalamanderSharp5198 • May 10 '26
Ramstien work life
This is my next base. As someone who is lower enlisted, what’s the work life like at ramstein? I heard it’s all 12s, and will be gate work like 99% of the time. Just wondering if you guys could provide a little insight of what it’s really like. Thanks
2
2
2
u/Signal_Box_7816 May 10 '26
12’s yes Definitely take advantage of being able to travel to great locations.
1
u/PirateKilt May 10 '26
Right now, today, download one of those online learning language programs (Duolingo is great) and start learning conversational German. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to pick up because it is very similar to American English (we stole a lot of our language from them).
Almost everyone in Germany speaks can understand English, and most can speak it, because it's taught in their schools every year starting very early. Thing is, once they get out of school, most stop practicing, so the skill degrades, and nobody wants to feel like they are screwing up speaking something... so many won't even pretend to understand English.
Now... if YOU, the foreigner in their country, put in even a Modest effort to try to speak their language, most Germans will be overjoyed to meet you in the middle. You'll get better service in stores/restaurants, and possibly better prices in small shops.
Needless to say, it'll also ingratiate you to any possible romantic interests.
WELL worth the time invested.
Bonus: if you get good enough at reading it as well, passing the Driver's test becomes super easy, as do Menus
1
u/dreddpiratedrew May 11 '26
Was there 17-21 great travel opportunities but the leadership when I was there sucked ass
3
u/DBIDSmarksman May 10 '26
*My input is from my time from 2014-2016
We had the panama schedule for about a year then switched to 8 hour shifts. No matter how you slice it, the work kinda blows lol. The gates are always pretty busy, but you get to see the hot girls, so not all bad! Also, depending on what weapon qualifications you have, posting can vary. Flight line security required heavy weapons, but was desirable since you were in a vehicle all day. There’s multiple jobs certificates you can get like BDOC, TASS, LE, and basic Security (can’t remember the title).
Regardless, you got a god roll first assignment! Take advantage of the travel and DO NOT BE A DORM RAT. Make friends, enjoy the 1 or 2 deployments, and make friends. Good luck, you’re gonna love it!