The benefits of enlisting is that they provide you with financial aid towards college or other economic problems. Also it could help you develop survival skills. Some drawbacks of enlisting is that your life could be taken away during battle and sometimes the benefits that are stated could be not available anymore. I am not drawn to the qualities of Army life because even though you can become more important and gain more skills, I believe that for me it's not important. I feel like even though you have gone to many different wars, you are not the same person because you have PTSD and going to war and seeing all the killing would bring back memories and cause some difficulties to concentrate.
I would describe my views and attitude towards the military as neutral. The military is important as it helps provide security for the country and nation. Having people serving the country not only in combat but in other areas helps keep the country protected and prepared if people in combat are needed. I think that is an important duty because people are working and training hard to provide service to our country which requires strenuous motivation. No specific experiences have shaped my views.
There are many benefits when joining the military including money benefits, education benefits and travel opportunities. Being in the military gives people the opportunity to travel to places they might have always wanted to go to, which can be a benefit for many people who enjoy or wanna travel in their future. The military also covers a lot of your education costs, and even your healthcare costs. If there was a chance that they would make me go into combat, i am fearful for that because i do not wanna partake in any combat.
My initial reaction to the disparities in army recruitment in the country was yeah it makes sense. The places that are more rooted with the military are more likely to have people join it. I don’t really think its wrong because the army is optional you aren’t forced to join it's the decision of the individual if they want to join.
I am more drawn to the qualities the sergeant was talking about. I feel like those qualities he named are important things you people should have. Being deployed to a dangerous area wouldn't be scary for me because I know it's for the benefit of my family and keeping them safe. Everyone who joins the army should know and accept the fact they are gonna get deployed.
When it comes to the military, I do think it is an important and patriotic duty but I don't think that would convince me to join the army. I wouldn’t consider serving in the U.S. armed forces because that’s not something I want to spend my time doing. I never intend to serve in the army or this nation simply because it's not appealing.
I think the military is very important and necessary in order to keep the country safe and protect them but I wouldn’t say it would be right to force people to enlist. They are forced against their own will to serve in the military. I’ve seen a few bad things about the military and it sometimes makes me question if the benefits even outweigh the negatives and the harsh treatment they face.
I don’t dislike the military but it is something I wouldn’t do as my career because it's not something I'm passionate about from my family such as my uncles who served as navy seals etc When they were alive they did have a lot of PTSD from wars and habits from when they in war or training and at the same time it seems like the military has a lot of effects on you like how you think and act.
I would never consider joining the military. I have seen first hand what serving can do to a person, and I feel there are better ways I can aid society than joining the armed forces. The military is a necessary force to defend the country. It can help people in bad situations succeed in life and pay for higher education. Still, I can't entirely agree with some of their enlistment techniques and practices, so I would instead use other methods to achieve my goals.
I would definitely consider severing in the US Armed Forces. Right know I have no plan too, but if there were some thing to come up, and the US need more troops or men. I would be volunteering to sever my county. The military is always needing assistance. Either behind the scene of on the front lines.
I actually plan on serving in the military, hopefully after enrolling in either West Point or the Naval Academy. Joining the military has always been something I wanted to do, even as a kid. I know that to others, joining is probably not their first option on what they want to do when they’re older. Some even criticize people like me who plan on joining. I know that joining the military is the ultimate sacrifice enough can make for others. Being able to make that sacrifice requires a certain type of person. Serving, to me, is the greatest honor you can do for your country and for others.
I would most definitely consider serving in the US Armed Forces. In fact, I am heavily considering applying to the United States Military and Naval Academies. Not only is the tuition free, you receive stipends while you are enrolled, and your healthcare is covered, you are also set for life after the academy and your enlistment. According to the College Salary Report, a degree from the Naval Academy sets you up for the fourth most salary potential in the country, with West Point coming it at ninth.
I would not just serve in the military or attend the academies for the benefits. I would serve because I would like to be a part of something that is bigger than myself, and to be a team player, which will not only help you on the battlefront, but in the classroom, on the field, and in your future employment as well.
While I believe it is sad that the only enlistments in the military are coming from long lines of family history, it helps prove a point that being in the military not only brings honor to your country, but you are also honoring your family of military members past. Both of my grandfathers served in the Navy and Air Force, respectively, and they have told me stories that I have not forgotten, and never will. Serving in the Armed Forces would be a dream come true, as well as being accepted into the prestigious service academies.
@Carter Osborn
I think your point of view is interesting. I like that you say you wouldn't only serve in the military for the financial benefits. I think people who do that shouldn't be in the military at all; in that respect the army is quite predatory since it is very tempting for people mainly in poverty to join up just for the temporary reprieve. It's very honorable for you to even consider joining any faction of the military, and I can only assume it takes a lot of guts.
I think that I would rather do the behind the scenes work. I would rather be involved with designing tech for the army instead of actually fighting. I think that if you design advanced tech for the war, then fewer people on your side will have to die for nothing. If you can design a more effective uniform that is better at shielding the body then I would devote my time to doing that. Or maybe tech that is better at detecting the enemy so that it won't be as likely that they do a surprise attack on any troops. I believe that that is what I would rather do.
I think the News make people shy away form the military because they always talk about how the U.S is at war with others and people don't think that they will befit from joining the military.
Enlisting in the Air Force has not always been my go to or back up plan, but it was always in my mind. I always see the benefits of enlisting, such as free housing when stationed on base, compared to college dorms, which can cost around $8-9 thousand a year, the Armed Forces will pay for you to go to college, basically a free gym membership, because you’ll have daily PT (physical training), and being able to retire after 20 years. The only drawback of enlisting for myself is leaving my family. I have a really close relationship with my little sister who is six years old in kindergarten, and thinking about leaving her always brings me close to tears. Because I’m her best friend, next to my parents. My dad he was in the military and when he would leave would, it would bring sadness to me, but when he returned I was the happiest kid on the planet.
I, personally, plan to serve in the military. Coming from Arkansas, and the South as a whole, our culture at large deifies service members, and considering that my grandfather was an engineer in the Vietnam War and my great grandfather was an engineer in World War II, the birthright service theory is certainly plausible. In school, many of the students who participate in JROTC come from military families, and the article clearly provides proof for its theory. I don't think it's quite as simple as passing the torch from mother to daughter or father to son, though; while many members of my family served in the military, my parents did not, and neither are my brothers. The trend, nevertheless, has observable consequences in everyday life. Memes mocking JROTC students for their seriosity and the famous Vine that features a young boy rebut his friend with the sentence "you're disrespecting a future U.S. Army soldier"are popular for a reason: civilians, and especially people who aren't from military families, don't put as much weight on the sacrifices of those in the military because it's hard to understand what that experience is like, and how it truly affects its members. Even though I myself plan to enter the military, I still fail to entirely empathize with those who have served, and I laugh at the JROTC memes and quote the Vine. It forces me to consider, am I in the wrong? And I don't believe there's a single answer.
I think this topic is important for us kids to talk about. This Is an Important subject because the military is one of our only lines of defense for our country. I think the article was right in the fact that most jobs aren't even combat related so that a bonus if you are worried about combat and such. I have considered the military as a future job and it interests me a lot not only the combat but being able to advance weapons and technology. I think not everyone should join the military but if it's something you would like to do then go and do it. This article talks bout the enlistments in the military and how the numbers are shrinking. It also describe only certain areas are producing more recruits based off there past experience with people in the military. It's a little bit shocking the fact that in recent year the enlistment have decreased even with breakthroughs with science and technology.
@Cameron Baker I have thought about joining the military and it is a very good choice because if you make a carer out of it there are many benefits it gives you like you can get paid after you retire and if u get another job after that than you will be set. There is also the fact that you are serving your country.
@Cameron Baker sometimes I have strong thoughts about joining the military because my dad was in the military a few years ago for a decent ammount of time. I believe that joining the military is a very good idea for many reasons, for example you serve for your country risking your life and you get insurance benefits and get paid. My family is pretty patriotic and show pride for our country.
I have no family ties with the US military, though i do feel a sense of patriotism. Yes, I would consider serving in the US armed forces. And I feel that all people who feel that sense of pride in their country should consider serving in the military.
The U.S. Armed Forces are a group of people that do everything they can to protect our country. For that, they have my respect. However, joining the military isn’t in any of my plans. If our country was being invaded by others, I would consider the though for being ready to fight for my country. However, this isn't the case at the moment, and I hope not in the future, so I really wouldn’t consider joining the military otherwise.
I have no family ties with the American military force, but I do feel a sense of pride in my country. Patriotism is very important to the military strength of a country, which in turn increases its political power in the world. However, we should first make attempts to negotiate and make peace with other countries. Recently, many people have started talking and joking about the tensions between Iran and the US leading to WWIII. Both countries are at fault for letting tensions escalate to the level they're at now, but I still believe that they both can calm down and come to terms. If push comes to shove, troops will die on both sides and horrible things will happen to both countries. If they calmed down, maybe they could just ignore what happened and put the past behind them.
I honestly don't think I could go into the military but I have had family members go. I have family members that would like to go. My grandpa, great uncle, and sister have been in the military. My older brother Anthony wants to go into the marines in 2 years after he get completes community college.
Regardless of how young or old you are, I think everyone has at the very least considered joining the military at one point or another. Although I’m only 14 years old, my dad is enlisted in the Air Force, so I have always grown up with a military influence. My grandfather and great grandfather were also in the military, so I think that causes me to consider it even more. I believe that having respect for your country is vital to life in that country, and joining the military is arguably the most respect you could give. I may not be the most educated when it comes to the United States military and their relations with other countries, but from what I do know, it would never hurt to have another soldier on the battlefield or extra support staff in another task force. I know that the U.S. spends the most money on the military in the world, and supporting our security by joining the military has been a consideration of mine for quite some time.
Disclaimer: Considering I'm apart of the National Guard, I suppose I'm biased, but let's just get right into this.
Even before I joined the military I've always had an amount of respect for people in active duty, reserves, etc in any military branch. It's never been a tradition in my family to join the military so me joining was kind of a curve ball to my parents. They had attempted to join the National Guard like I did but couldn't due to their own reasons. Jeremy Engle makes a pretty good argument about why people may or may not want to enlist. It's honestly scary going in on your own, not really knowing anyone and having a friend right there with you just makes the conversion from civilian to full time soldier that much easier. The benefits of the army are at an all time high. You can't name many programs that will give you basically free college just for your time, and there are so many other benefits that aren't covered right upfront. People question why we don't have more enlistments? Jeremey put it in perfect words. It's hard going into something like the Army, Marines, Navy, etc. that requires so much discipline without knowing anyone. It's an intimidation factor that can't really be budged because it's supposed to be scary. It's all a mentality thing that will quickly go away after you sign that dotted line that says you just signed away the next few years of your life, however if you're going into it with that mentality, you're just setting yourself up to fail.
I've found myself thinking about this topic in light of the recent tensions with Iran; it's not uncommon to wind up in a conversation where people joke about getting drafted into a third world war these days. As funny as they may be I think these jokes overlook what people in the military would go trough under those circumstances. My uncle is a medical colonel in the armed forces, and while I don't know many details of his work I do know that a war could land him in some possibly compromising places.
I can't help but agree with the idea that the more you know about the army the more likely you are to join up since it simply makes sense. However enlisting into the military personally is frightening to me because anyone who knows me knows that I'm about as fragile and weak as can be. The college benefits might be really nice, but I can't say with any confidence at all that I would make it through the first day of training.
It's hard to say what the future holds for me, but for now the military is far from the plan.
The U.S. Armed Forces are a group of people that do everything they can to protect our country. For that, they have my total respect. However, joining the military isn’t in any of my plans. If our country was being invaded by others, I would be one of the first people ready to fight for my country. For my rights. However, this isn't the case at the moment, and I hope not in the future, so I really wouldn’t consider joining the military otherwise.
The article talks about how people are more likely to join the Army when they are around others who have experienced it. Compared to other people I know, I have a very positive outlook on the army. That is because of my cousin. My cousin was a part of the army a couple years ago and he brings it up every time I see him. He has countless stories and experiences which he shares with the family. Even with his influence, I still don’t think the military is the right thing for me. It just doesn’t suit the plans I have for my future endeavors. Our maybe it is just my non understanding of military life like the article talks about. For every good story I hear about the military there is another bad story following its trail, especially with increasing conflicts around the world. This information makes me hesitant but willing to join the Armed Forces if necessary.
@Akye Nixon-McCray
I see the army the same way you do. As much as I respect and sometimes envy all the praise the military people rightfully get, I don't see it as a part of my future. There are a few reasons people go into the military, their love for our country, the benefits that come with it, maybe even all the high praise they get is a factor, but for me, I just don't think that it's for me. The military is an important part of this country, but we need way more other people who serve our country just by working from 8 to 5. It is not nearly as impressive as being in the military, but is very important to our country nonetheless.
I also see the issues that come with being in the army that outweigh the many benefits. People often come out of the military with disabilities and depression. The risks for being in the military do scare me, but the main reason for me not wanting to serve in the military, just like you, is that I see myself pursuing a different career option.
I Don't consider joining the army at all cause you can go to war for a country who wouldn't fight for you in the same situation and with the current president i wouldn't want to risk my life for something that he thinks is right
I mean you can get a lot of benefits from the military.
The US Armed Forces are saying they need more youth to join them. The first thought that comes to mind is ‘why?’. The article says that the military offers great benefits during your service. What about the benefits once your service is complete? An increased risk of alcoholism and drug abuse? Homelessness? Suffering through PTSD with no support from the very government you served? The veterans referenced in this article, who have steered youth towards a military career, must have had a solid support system and little to no contact with the horrors others faced - seeing your fellow soldiers die from landmines and gunshot wounds, facing discrimination and scorn due to your differences (32% of women have been sexually assulted in the military). A large amount of recruits are only volunteering because they can’t afford any other lifestyle; that or because it is a ‘family tradition’. Young people are joining or saying they will join the military because they feel obligated to, but on the other end of the spectrum there are people who would never join because they have family in the military. When families have a veteran who has severe PTSD or negative memories in the military it can deter family members from joining because they end up with a realistic expectation of the military.
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@tex To build off your case if the government not caring for veterans after they finish their service, it is well known that the VA is severely underfunded and understaffed and is unable to supply veterans with their basic needs. Congress has tried and failed for years to reform the VA to make it better for those who have served our country, but for years they have been more worried about allocating money for the military, fighting pointless regime change wars in the Middle East and elsewhere, than the real people who have been emotionally and psychologically damaged by these wars.
What is the point of free college tuition if you are so emotionally destroyed that you cannot function in society and on top of that, have nowhere to turn because the government doesn't care for vets? Through service is honorable, the way veterans are treated when they come home is a huge turnoff for many people. So, if the military really wants more youth to join and serve the nation, they need to consider those who already have and are back home. They need to show us that they will take care of us by showing us that they can take care of the current veterans. It is the only way to build back the fundamental trust that the American people have lost in the armed forces.
@tex
This article seems just as fishy to me as it seems to be for you. I feel like important points were left out to only show the positive sides of joining the Military, and not any of the loopholes or consequences joining the Military can have on your life. There’s no wonder there’s a lack of enlistment to the Military nowadays, because more people now know the psychological effects joining the Military can have on you in the future. It feels like propaganda for enlisters to be pushing the youth to join the Military. They may see veterans within their community fine and happy, and want to do the same thing as them, but their mind’s might change if they see another veteran who’s homeless, traumatized, and a shell of a person they used to be.
I’m not a fan of war and military. I don’t believe that people has to die in order to solve an issue. I would not join the military unless the us was attacked and invaded by an aggressor. I hate the fact that the older people in the government provokes wars and the young one has to fight for it. It is just isn’t fair. The Internet, I believed, was one of a major reason why many young people felt this way. It connects us to all the people around the world which makes us felt like a part of a big family. Likewise, we does not want to hurt the members of our family.
I would consider serving because it comes with many benefits. After you are done serving there are many things that you don't have to worry about like health insurance, if you have a house you don't have to worry about payments, and they cover certain bills. There are so many benefits after you serve. You get experience and training for going into the military. You also get paid for training.
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Looking at the map showing where the biggest recruiting areas are, I noticed that it shares an almost eerie resemblance to political maps showing Democratic and Republican districts. The fact of the matter is, young liberals do not want to go fight in our parents' wars. The recent escalation in tensions with Iran made this very clear. As the majority of the Republican party closed ranks and fell behind Donald Trump, Democrats condemned the strike as a useless escalation of tensions and a needless destabilizing agent in an already unstable region.
The war in the Middle East has been going on for nearly two decades. A lot of people even forget we have a war going on. I consider myself to be very caught up in political news and I have absolutely no idea what we're doing in the Middle East or which countries or groups we are fighting. Because of this, people who don't have a family history of service don't feel compelled to serve their nation. They are suspicious of an institution that they see as out of touch with the American people. They do not want to be a part of the slaughter of millions of Middle Eastern people. That is why the youth are not joining the military.
Personally, there is no way that I would join the military with Donald Trump as Commander-in-Chief. I do not trust him to have my best interests at heart and would not feel like I have a leader I can trust. If there was a leader I could trust, the benefits like help with college tuition might entice me to join.
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I read a post recently as I was scrolling through Instagram, and it read “Donald Trump Considered a Terrorist by Cardi B”. I made an argument in the comments stating, “Soleimani was directly responsible for the attacks that killed over 600 American soldiers and he was declared a terrorist in 2004. You obviously don’t have family serving in the Middle East at the moment, risking their lives for our country. Believe me, I dislike trump, but he at least drew the line that day.” A couple of people negatively responded, a few people agreed, but one man’s response really caught my eye. He said “I guess terrorism is okay when it’s done under a flag, yes?” Isn’t it crazy how we view our military? The mass of people who risk their lives to protect our country, and we call them terrorists.
I believe that americans should have an option if they want to serve in the military or not. Being in the military has a lot of commitment, and you have to REALLY want to do it to serve. Not everyone is made out to be in the military, and is actually a very scary thought for some (including me.) I think being in the military is a very good way to serve our country, but not all people would agree to put themselves in this situation. I think people in the military are very brave and are truly amazing people, but not everyone wants to be a hero and do something so far out of their comfort zone. If all americans were forced to serve in the military this would cause many altercations between the government and the citizens of the U.S. America would eventually become problematic and troublesome which isn't a safe environment to live in.
My grandfather once served in the US Navy and I know a few of my teachers have served for the US Armed Forces. Yes I have considered enlisting, because I feel like it is an amazing opportunity to do something for my country and my family. I feel that it isn’t fair that most of those who are enlisting have family previously or part of the military. To me that makes it look like others aren’t deeming it a cause worthy of them. To me it makes me think that people are too important to themselves to even consider doing something that isn’t selfish, like enlisting.
I would consider serving in the U.S. armed forces. Serving your country to me is a very honorable thing to do and it shows your courage and strength to serve your country. Reading the article has affect my view because there are more benefits of being in the U.S. armed forces than I had thought. One benefit is that the college would be paid for if I served my time in the U.S. armed forces. The article has made me further want to join the U.S. armed forces because of information I hadn't known before that I now know. Many U.S. armed forces now put their lives in danger to protect American citizens everyday. It would be a honor to one day be one of those U.S. armed forces snd serve my country.
With the cost of college today joining the military seems like a tempting offer especially with the benefits associated with it. Going to a school in texas can cost up to 50,000 dollars a year in tuition alone. This fact makes it hard to refuse the benefits offered by the military however, with increased tension between foreighn countries today it is scary to even think about putting myself in that kind of danger.
Recently I have thought about joining the military, for multiple reasons. It may sound sort've selfish, but the first reason is due to college. I want to go to medical school and like many people, if I did I would wind up in a ton of debt. The average medical school student graduates with 200,000 dollars in debt. That is almost a yearly salary to some doctors. If I join the military they would pay for my school if I paid back my time. The second reason is lots of my family has served in the military, however it’s been all men. It would be kind’ve cool to break the streak and be the first girl in my family to join. I have always been really passionate about America and always cry watching movies dealing with war. It upsets me that a while back, men did not have a choice ...they were just drafted. They were pulled from their families and usually had no idea when they would see them again. Knowing I am different and knowing I have a choice, I almost feel obligated to join. It is a good opportunity to do my part in America.
I think that the benefits of being in the military include having college covered after serving, plus many benefits throughout life and well into retirement. Along with that, serving your country should be considered an honor and should give an individual a sense of pride. Some drawbacks, however, include being away from home for long periods of time, and being away from the people you care about most. Of course, there is also the risk of death in joining the military. Even though I would surely be fearful of dangerous places such as Iraq and Afghanistan, I think that I would be more drawn to the qualities of Army life than fearful because of my trust in God’s plan for me.
I had always thought about joining the military. The idea of serving my country as a solider in the field gave a certain kind of purpose like no other. That being said, I wouldn't consider myself a person who would work well in that type of scenario. Not due to the fact that there is a lot of blood shed, rigorous training, violence overall, and the idea of putting your life on the line is present. Mainly because I just don't think I need to, nor do I want to because I want a different future. Military can cause multiple different inconveniences such as time away from family, injury, and other things that would convince me otherwise.
I would consider serving in the U.S. armed forces. I believe that serving your country is an honorable thing to do and with it comes a lot of benefits. If you don't know if you can pay for college, you can enlist in the military and after you are discharged, they will pay for the military. On the contrary, I dont believe you should forcibly have to fight in a war in which you have no connection to or were not born yet to know why you are fighting.
Joining the US military has and never will be my first choice for a career. Although the benefits seem tempting, I disagree with many of the US military's choices. They have had their hands in many unnecessary and bloody conflicts. In attempts to bring stability to a region, they destroy any and everything in their path. They have been in an unsuccessful war for two decades. They have been known to lie to the public about its progress. Even if I got a desk job where I was not risking my life for an army which I did not agree with I would still be helping that army. If I was in crippling debt due to my student loans and the army would take some of the debt off my shoulders I would then choose to join, but I would not join happily.
I would serve in the armed forces. After college I plan to go and get basic military training, if my country ever needs me I will stand up and fight. I have a deep respect for the military. Many people do not believe in war but what they do not understand is we would not be a country without it. If we didn't have the mighty military we have today we would easily be overrun by some other country. I believe its the job of every American man to defend is homeland and family. Its what we have to do to keep this nation prosperous.
Many of my family members have served in various wars in the past. All have suspenseful stories of near death experiences and I ask them “Did you want to go to war?” The answer was always no, “but I didn't have to either, I felt as if it were my duty to do so.” If people want to go fight in a war those are the people who will make the most impact out on the battlefield, simply because they have the most heart and patriotism.
Right now I’m not considering serving the U.S Army I would say i'm not mentaly tough enough. I would say this article does not really sway my opinion on going into the Army
My view towards the military is I respect them a hole lot, to go and serve our country and have the chance of their life ending. As a little kid in the airport I would ask the army men or women for their autograph. No I don't see it as a patriotic duty because I think it’s an inside feeling like you need to serve. In the article, most people who go into the military their mom or dad are in or venterns. Thats why I think that is where people get the patriotic duty. No I’m not skeptical or critical of the military they do what they have to do to keep us safe and I’m fine with that. My grandpa was drafted and one of my class at my high school, I took a class all about the FBI and CIA.
I am not an American and would most likely never consider becoming American, never mind fighting wars for them.
To me the youth of the USA seem to be brain washed into thinking that their countries military action is somehow for defense and morally justified. The way they are taught to see fellow citizens who do not support them as trators is similar to how a fanatical terrorist group deals with thoughts and ideas that challenge their own.
The way the US has casually interfered in the internal affairs of other sovereign nations is simply put... tyrannical. Anyone who believes in justice, honor and the preservation of peace and prosperity would not be able to support their expansionist ideals.
Don't be fooled by "benefits" or claims that waging wars on the other side of the planet is somehow a defensive tactic. Put yourself in your enemies shoes and realize that you would be just as upset if it was your country being occupied by a foreign force.
I don’t think I would consider it because from what I’ve seen, it seems risky, and I don’t see myself enjoying it. There are a lot of things that could happen to me. I could possibly get killed, which is something I don’t want to risk. I know that serving is a sign of patriotism, but I want to be patriotic in a way that doesn’t get me killed. I honestly think that I’m not even qualified for the job either. I would be fearful of doing these kinds of things, and I don’t want to die that way. I know that we should help our country, but sometimes wars happen because of things that America did that could’ve been avoided, so sometimes, I feel like I don’t want to fight for a country that started the whole war anyway. I don’t really see much of a military presence at school. The most we might talk about something like it is during social studies, about past wars, or something like it, but we never go into depth about it, which is what I like because I think that if there was more of a military presence at my school, I think many things would change. I feel like people would feel more tense, in a way, if there was more of a military presence at school. I’m not really sure how, but I feel like things would start to get a little weird, if there was more of a military presence at my school. I think it might be because of the fact that kids don’t really talk about the military at school, and if it suddenly was more present in our lives, I think things would start to get pretty tense.
I think that people who have served/are serving in the military are very brave, and it's certainly a very honorable path to take, but I personally wouldn't join the military, nor have I ever considered it or thought of it as an option for the future. That itself is actually quite interesting, considering the fact that my school does have an R.O.T.C. program that constantly has many men who come and promote joining, and my grandfather has served in the military and has many mementos of it which I see on a daily basis. Many other important parental figures in my life have also discussed the benefits of joining the military to me in detail, and have recommended that I do so, having joined themselves. Despite these factors, I simply don't find joining the military to be appealing, and I've found that many of my classmates and friends who are in similar situations have agreed with me. This may be because (as some other comments have also mentioned) I'm simply not very nationalistic. So while the idea of serving my country has been recommended to me many times over, I've never actually thought about joining, or felt any desire to do so.
I generally lack a sense of nationalism, and while I can see the appeal in going to the army, I don’t think I ever will. If I were ever in a circumstance where the United States Army was my only option, I would join, but even with the benefits of serving, but I wouldn’t want to join otherwise.
I also disagree with the ethics of our military, and I think the United States often causes unnecessary conflict so we can justify military spending. I would understand fighting foreign aggression, but it seems that most of the time the US has a hand in these conflicts.
@Aiden I completely agree about what you said of the ethics of the military. I also wouldn’t join the military because of the mental illnesses like PTSD they could sustain even if they survive after serving.
Listen, not to sound bad because I love my country but no, no sir no ma’am, no. Just because of people like Trump that like to make the enemy mad, when he was not even the ones fighting them off. I get that it would be my job but still. And only because it's a big topic, im going to bring up Iran, because if they were to try and recruit me to go over there and fight, even though I know they wouldn't, but let's just say they do, they would be out of their minds to even consider putting Syrea Roland as a candidate.
Now that that's covered, let's talk about the article. So reading the first line I see these specific people are like ageneration. A father's child goes into the army, and then his two children wants to join. Like it's passed down or something. So basically the whole article talks about the number of people they recruit and the factors of it. In my opinion The article is very detailed, and it makes some good points, but I'll still pass. If you know me you know i'm a little reckless so just like all memes, that said people be dancing or chilling while they are shooting, will probably be me. One thing that caught my eye is the fact they mention Fayteville, and I'm in Wilmington meaning that's close to me, and I don't like that. They said they have twice as many contracts than Manhattan, meaning we are doing better than them. I don't like that.
@Syrea Roland Personally I would react the same way with the first paragraph. Also, reading the first paragraph made me chuckle.
Personally, I wouldn’t like to join the military. Nobody in my family served and I can see how that may influence someone to enlist. That doesn’t mean I don’t admire people in the military because I could never have that much bravery as they do. I’m grateful that they put their lives on the line for our freedom and I respect that. I remember in elementary school writing valentines for vets and I tried to make my card as personal and pretty as I could.
Now as a teen, I have been informed more about the military. For example, like the case with LaVena Johnson who was a woman in the military whose death has prompted people to question the the military. Or that soldiers can become mindless killing machines executing innocent civilians. I understand that they are ordered to but doing it in the name of “democracy” and “freedom” isn’t a valid reason for taking away innocent lives. I guess my problem just lies within the government who are giving them horrendous orders, and not within the military.
I have already considered and made a decision that I do want to serve in the armed forces when I am eligible. Since I live in the South, I do see more of a support for the military than in other places I have been or lived in. I think that this article definitely confirms what I have thought before. I am very supportive of the military, and service as a whole. My father serves in the Navy, so I know many people who are serving or have served before which shapes my view to be very supportive of these people and their decisions to serve. I also believe that it is a very selfless decision to make to serve many people that you don’t know to protect the freedom that our country gives us. I think that there are many benefits that come from long deployments. Some of which is that they will build last friendships with those who you serve with. It will also give soldiers a chance to see how life outside of the US is and how we are in a bubble that filters out a lot of the things that happen around the world. I think that because of the different environments and cultures that are around each part of the US, many people in different locations feel more or less obligated to serve depending on their upbringing. I do not necessarily think that it is a good or bad thing, but it is something that recruiters know which makes them probably less likely to recruit people from certain locations.
Under this administration? Never.
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@jiminy In some European countries like Germany in years before 2011, German citizens were required to serve in a facet of the military to be a citizen, so be thankful that you live in America, where service is voluntary. I’m not sure if I would consider serving in the military. I want to become an engineer in the future and if the military needed me, I would serve a non-combatant position if I had to. Its likely that most jobs nowadays involve computers, drones and programming rather than combat because we are not in any large scale hot wars and the age of army to Army combat has become obsolete because of the technological advances in drones and other sources of robots. I don’t think every American should be required to serve in the military because of some religious beliefs which guard a person from serving, however if the Nation calls on you I do believe it should be a matter of patriotism and a duty to come to the country’s aid.
I’m from Wilmington, North Carolina. My grandfather served in Vietnam. I would consider serving in the United States military. This is all perfectly in line with what Mr. Arango and Mr. Philipps said in the article. As they say, people from military families are more likely to serve, and since the South has a greater number of military families, more people from the south end up serving. This just makes sense, but we do need more people to enlist.
As Mr. Philipps and Mr. Arango say, there are more jobs in the military than serving in combat. We really do need more people in the military. I’m not completely sure that I myself would serve, as I am a self-proclaimed coward, but more people need to serve.
Not only would I consider joining the armed forces, I have actually taken the preliminary steps in joining United States Naval Academy. For as long as I can remember, the strict discipline and determination that service members behold have inspired the way I grow up and interact with the world. My father was the first in his family to graduate from a university, earning a degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan. His military-like hard work and determination has never let him down in life—which he never lets me forget—so naturally, I picked up some of those characteristics within him. He too recognizes within me that I have tough discipline and oftentimes suggests books written by former US Marines which highlight military values and what it takes to be a leader. Even when I got in trouble as a kid, he would teach me the lessons within these books. Not only did the true war situations capture my attention, but they allowed for me to retain the information more, concreting the values inside of me forever. So yes, I do plan on joining the armed forces because I have been taught militaristic values my whole life, making it seem the best fit for me and the life I want to pursue.
Personally, I have always lacked any desire to join the military. To be fair the mindset I’ve always had when it came to topics such as war, and military is that it’s always just senseless battle; one person dies, then another, then another, all for a conflict that could have been negotiated upon without bloodshed. I personally just don’t find it in my ability to want to go out to battle in a war caused by men who couldn’t settle their disagreements and put their entire country at risk for something that could be avoided. Although I commend those willing to risk their lives to fight for the sake of others and those men should be held in the highest honor. I believe that to be in the military, the highest level of resolve is required and to put it simply, Those who kill should be prepared to die themselves. Something not everyone can live by and for that reason only certain men should join the military.
In the article Kelli Bland states, “Those who understand military life are more likely to consider it as a career option than those who do not,” Although I agree with this statement to a point, I believe that people who know the risk will be either more inclined to join or not to join.
I have been reading through the comments and some give me great pride at having served in the US Army. I see a lot of misconceptions in a lot of them, however.
Prior to myself, none of my family had ever graduated from a four year institution. When I married, all of my wife's family had college degrees and I had no money to get one. I decided to use the Army to get myself a college degree and, later in life, become a rich man. I haven't yet reached what I would call "rich" status, but I am by no means wanting for anything. I hold degrees in zoology, chemistry, and computer science. I work as a software engineer. All of this was made possible by my service. My point is that I had no desire to show how brave I was, how patriotic I was, or to risk my life. I simply wanted to provide for my family and increase my position in life.
Here is what I hope some of the young people read. Service to your country doesn't say "I support the government". It is far more than "going to fight". You will develop the discipline necessary to perform under pressure, leadership skills, a community you feel connected to, friendships with a closeness you cannot hope to experience elsewhere, an appreciation for the sacrifices you (and others) make, and you will be exposed to cultures you couldn't hope to see otherwise.
The US Army helped mold me into who I am today. There were some really tough times, but they were learning opportunities that have served me well.
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I wouldn’t even consider joining the army because I’m not too fond of any job that requires physically attacking anyone or shooting anyone. I would love to serve the US but not in a violent way. THis includes jobs like becoming a judge, a lawyer, or even a doctor, but not something where I have the power to harm someone’s life.
@Nathanael Kassahun Even though you do not want to have a job that involves physically attacking anyone, the Armed Forces could still be a good fit for you. Many of the jobs that are a part of the military do not involve going out to fight, meaning there are still plenty of non violent options for you to take advantage of. You said so yourself that you wanted to serve the U.S. this would be the perfect way to do so and you could choose not to enter combat to do one of the many other jobs available to you. I encourage you to reconsider joining the Armed Forces now that you know there are alternatives to physically fighting an enemy in battle. As for myself, I would consider joining the military depending on what job I would have to perform. Generally, I do not think I would want to be fighting a battle, but it would feel good to know that I am directly contributing to the defense of the United States against forces that are out to destroy it.
I would consider joining the army but I don't think I would follow through with it. I think it is important that we give back to ur country somehow in some way. I think it could even be volunteering. I don't think joining the army is for me but some people want to serve their country and I think itś good to join the army. I wouldn't join because I feel the army life is just not for me. After reading the article it has changed my view a bit but I still think life in the army is just not for me.
As a person who has numerous members, past and present, of the military, I would definitely consider joining the armed forces. Ever since I was a child, I have been told stories and experiences from when my dad and cousins were in service. Whether they were good or bad, they still proved the point that their perspective on life had changed immensely. Knowing about this once in a life time, forever changing experience, I would love to experience that while I have the time and ability. Plus, you are helping your nation by protecting and preparing for any situation. Knowing that I took part in helping our nation would give me a great feeling of pride.
My views and attitudes towards the military are very negative. I think that the whole “serve your country” thing is wrong. I am saying anything bad about people who do want to serve but I think it is wrong. They drill this image into your brain and then train you and basically break you until you become a robot that has one purpose. It is patriotic in a way, but not in the way that America should show patriotism. You shouldn’t have to show that you honor your country by enlisting in the military and fighting for your country. I don’t have any personal experiences with the military but from what I know, they basically bribe you with benefits, work you until you break just so they can drill a message into your head.
@Adah D'Alba You couldn't be more wrong. Who do you think gives you the freedom to say comments like these? Your army. They fight for our freedom and without them you wouldn't have the right to say this and without them we might not even be a country anymore.
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I agree with you in the way you see the military. I can't imagine enlisting, but I also don't have experience with the military. I especially agree with your ast statement, that they "bribe you with benefits, work you until you break just so they can drill a message into your head." That's what the military is at it's core, an organization used to brainwash you into patriotism. They prey on poor and disenfranchised people who have no other means to move up in the world, force them to fight or stay poor forever.
Joining the U.S. Armed Force is nice, and many little boys (maybe girls too) have the dream of one day
joining the military, but now as we grow older, people’s minds change. There are the benefits and drawbacks of joining the military, which can affect people’s decisions. Sure, benefits of joining the U.S. military are, quoting from the article, “New marketing plays up future careers in medicine and tech, as well as generous tuition benefits for a generation crushed by student debt. The messaging often notes that most Army jobs are not in combat fields.” Yes, they provide future careers in medicine and technology, as long as generous tuition benefits. You don't have to be in combat fields. That is safe, but note that sometimes you still need to go into battle, and for that, you need a lot of training. There is also the chance of death in combat. I don't know about anyone else, but being a scaredy-cat I am, I wouldn't want to be in the military. Others might still join since it's their dreams and they want to serve for the country. I can't affect how others think of joining the military, but that’s how I feel.
Joining the U.S. Armed Force is nice, and many little boys (maybe girls too) have the dream of one day
joining the military, but now as we grow older, people’s minds change. There are the benefits and drawbacks of joining the military, which can affect people’s decisions. Sure, benefits of joining the U.S. military are, quoting from the article, “New marketing plays up future careers in medicine and tech, as well as generous tuition benefits for a generation crushed by student debt. The messaging often notes that most Army jobs are not in combat fields.” Yes, they provide future careers in medicine and technology, as long as generous tuition benefits. You don't have to be in combat fields. That is safe, but note that sometimes you still need to go into battle, and for that, you need a lot of training. There is also the chance of death in combat. I don't know about anyone else, but being a scaredy-cat I am, I wouldn't want to be in the military. Others might still join since it's their dreams and they want to serve for the country. I can't affect how others think of joining the military, but that’s how I feel.
I have some family who have served in the military, and it doesn't seem like the life for me. This sounds selfish, but I don't want to risk my life for war, conflict, or even patriotism. Why should I fight for the government's cause that I may not even believe in? I definitely think the military should be volunteer. I will admit that I am scared of being drafted eventually, service to the military is not where I think I can make the most impact with my life. There are a lot of benefits involved with being a veteran, but those aren't guaranteed if you don't survive. Most people do survive their service, but there is a chance that I will not. I don't like the idea of war in general, and enlisting in the army would only add to the violent attitude of this country, America.
Having my dad be active in the military has shown me that this is not something that I would be interested in doing. My sister on the other hand has shown interest in the life that we’ve been raised in. I think that it helps if a child is exposed to a lifestyle because then they are able to make a decision easier because they understand what they are getting into, but I don't think that it's bad to have generations of families involved in it. Most children have different views then their parents so there will still be diversity if that's what people are worried about. There's still more then half of the military population that don't have immediate family involved.
I have gone back and forth on whether I want to join the military when I am older. Military service has tons of benefits, and it would be really nice to get some of those. I think that the military offers a huge opportunity to poor and lower class Americans, and I have experienced it first hand.
My mom was very poor, sometimes homeless when she was younger, and joined the military to get out of the cycle of poverty. The military allowed her to go to college and paid for her degree, and she worked there a few years. She now has a good job at a tech company thanks to knowledge gained in the military.
I am not surprised by the disparities in the number of army recruits. The military for some reason is usually shown as a bad thing in the media, and unless there is anyone to tell you about their experience then you will believe it.
My school doesn't really encourage military service, but my mom doesn't want me doing either. She said that it is a great opportunity for someone that can't afford college to lift themselves out of hardship, but that I should go to a college and work as a civilian because I can.
Service is a great tool for people that can't afford college or need to make a good living. If someone is struggling to pay for college and acquire skills they should definitely join, otherwise not.
I have never had the drive to enlist in the U.S. armed forces, it may partially be because I have no living family members who are veterans or still in service but, I cannot say this article has shaped my view or decision. Even though I would not like to enlist in the armed forces I have a deep respect for those who do, since it is a big sacrifice one must make and comes with a risk. I believe it one of the most important jobs in our country and those who participate do not receive the credit they deserve. There are benefits to joining the armed forces like much better healthcare and others provided by the government, but I will say that if I did join which I do not think I would consider, I am fearful of being deployed somewhere in the Middle East. Especially after the airstrikes launched about a week ago. Residents of Fayetteville NC should be proud to have more military enlistments than Manhattan considering the size of each city. I would never consider it unfair for Manhattan to have less enlistments unless the citizens enlisting were not volunteering, but as long as those enlisting have the choice to enlist the amount from each area of the country should not matter as long as we have enough members in the armed forces. I come from Atlanta, Georgia and there are many schools near where I live that have an R.O.T.C. program however, my school is not one of them. I also cannot say we have any military personel talking to about enlisting since we never see men in uniform.
Personally, I’ve never really ever thought about joining the army. Multiple people in my family have served, though I’ve never imagined myself being one of those people. Granted being in the military is a way to represent your country and show your bravery and honor, but I don’t think I would do well surrounded by lots of violence- and all of the extremely intense training along the way.
The article mentions whether it’s fair enough to keep having recruits from the same places, and if it’s healthy for that particular economy. In some situations many kids may not have a choice about going into the army if everyone before them in their family has. I don’t think it’s necessarily fair for a ton of people to go into the armed forces from one place for the economies sake, but if the people are willing to proudly serve their country and want to go- then nothing should stop them from being able to do that.
I found it interesting that the gap of military service is continuing to widen simply because of the role parents, grandparents, any family member plays in their kids’ lives. If a young person knows anyone who has served in the military, they may possibly want to follow behind them in their steps or may not- but influential adults always play a role.
I don't think I'd ever serve in our military. As a grandchild of a veteran who was drafted, I was brought up being taught that fighting and war isn't the answer, and that countries should be able to solve problems peacefully. The article discusses economic benefits that the military provides, but as I walk around my city, I look at homeless people’s signs and numerous ones say something along the lines of “homeless veteran” or “injured homeless veteran.” Because of these observations, and because of my personal beliefs, I am wary of joining the military.
It has never crossed my mind that I would be working and serving my country through the U.S Armed Forces. Don’t get me wrong, I like my country and I am grateful for it and for those who sacrifice themselves to protect it but I am my top priority. There are chances where I could lose it all in one day or one hour. The article has great reasons as to why more people should be joining the army but it is far too risky for my loved ones and myself. Perhaps when I am older, I might join the army but become a medic or someone I don’t have to go into battle. However, for now, I’ll put joining the U.S Armed Forces in my options for jobs.
Personally, I feel I would volunteer under certain circumstances in which our country truly needs people in the armed forces. For example, if the United States was attacked by an opposing country or one of its allies was attacked and as a result, brought the United States into the major conflict I would consider enlisting. The reason why is because as history has shown us, a lack of military power and soldiers has led to the demise of many powerful countries in their war. During World War II, Germany was forced to divide up its military and send it to its Eastern and Western fronts in order to fight the allied powers. But due to the low numbers of soldiers on each front, the allies were able to defeat Germany given their divided and weaker military force as a result of having a two-front war. And so, if the United States were ever involved in a major military conflict in which our numbers in the military were too low, I would consider enlisting because there is strength in numbers in certain areas such as the military.
While serving in the Army is a courages and honorable duty, I myself have never considered joining. I personally would not want to join because it has never interested me as a career and is a very big job, having to protect our country, that I don’t believe I can handle. I respect deeply those who serve and put their lives on the line everyday to keep the country safe and secure. Although serving provides very good benefits, having to be away from your family for a long period of time and not knowing if you will return is scary. I have a uncle who served in the military and really never talked about his experience, which concerned me but I understood why he may not want to talk about it. I think that people should have a choice if they want to serve or not because not everyone may be able to handle such job and don’t see themselves in the future serving as a career.
I have always been interested in joining the armed forces but im not sure if it will ever happen. I know many kids like me have dreamed about being in the military and how cool it would be but some people don't understand the risk. Both of my grandpas served during the Vietnam War and have said bad things about it, but I have also heard stories of the armed forces being some of the best times of their lives. It shouldn't matter where recruiters target to recruit people. If you choose to serve than you serve. I know plenty of upper class people that serve or have served, and some that are interested. I also dont think its wrong to target places that are more middle class and around bases because that's the majority of people whether they get recruited or not.
My school, unlike a few other schools, does not have a military influence in it, and it does not encourage military service. I think there may have been one time where I saw a pair of military recruiters set up a table in the hallway but otherwise there isn’t a military influence. I am fine with the way that the military presence in our school already is, because recruiters coming in once is okay, and there will be people who want to join the military, but if we add more of a military presence to my school, then it would be more of a way to pressure highschoolers to join the military.
I believe serving in the armed forces is suitable path for many young-adults. However, it may not appear viable to many people because of common misconceptions and lack of awareness. The military must attract people by offering individuals crucial things that can only be obtained from the military. I believe that serving in the military is prestigious as well as honorable. But such activity can be detrimental and have serious consequences on health, which is the reason I do not consider serving in the military as an optimal option for my future. Accordingly, I respect people who do serve in the military as they choose to live with such fear in their lives. I feel that such disparities do not entirely matter as long as the military is still raising adequate soldiers. To the general public, as long as the country remains competently defended, the military is doing its job. In other words, military inequalities only pose a threat to military incapability when inadequate recruitments take place. Our school does not, to my knowledge, have many military programs. However, if such programs would be beneficial in the long run to the military as well as the individuals themselves, then such programs should be enacted. Forcing everyone to serve in the military would not be very effective, since most people can complete a job satisfactorily only if they are truly motivated. The force is never a reliable motivator. Also, force impedes people’s fundamental right to freedom of volition.
I would really never consider volunteering to serve in the military. I mean, imagine all the hard work and strength it would take across the stretch of many years. You would basically be working your body to its last strand and muscle by muscle would start to to burn. To be in this stage in the military, you have to encounter multiple exhilarating tests that will test you endurance, strength, timing, stealthiness, and what you can do to provide for the team. When I was little I would always say to my parents "why would anyone want to join the military if they're just risking their lives as their job?" Now I know it is for honer and loyalty to a country. People do it for their countries protectiveness and love. I think the military is so important to the world, but people wouldn't have to use it as much if people just talked it out with one another. What I don't get this day in age is why people need to fight for what they want, and why they can't make peace or use words. People use the saying all the time "words are stronger than actions, but I don't think people actually take that into consideration. So many people are either forced or taken into the military by force and not choice to fight for their country when in a way, that's not all that necessary.
I don’t think I would ever join the army. Partly because it’s never really been something I have thought about as an option, and also because I don’t have strong family connections with the military. My grandfather served in the army, but he never talked about it, so I don’t have any emotional ties to the army from him. Ironically my reason for not considering the army is the main reason this article said others don’t join the army.
The article said that most army recruits are youth who have had family members who have served before them. This is because those kids are encouraged by their parents to join the army, while parents who aren’t part of the military warn their kids of the danger and try to steer them in a different direction.
While I don’t think it’s right that those who aren’t born into the “family business” aspect of the military are steered away from it, but this is the reality. While I think this reality should change I just don’t believe that it will.
I have never had the drive to enlist in the U.S. armed forces, it may partially be because I have no living family members who are veterans or still in service but, I cannot say this article has shaped my view or decision. Even though I would not like to enlist in the armed forces I have a deep respect for those who do, since it is a big sacrifice one must make and comes with a risk. I believe it one of the most important jobs in our country and those who participate do not receive the credit they deserve. There are benefits to joining the armed forces like much better healthcare and others provided by the government, but I will say that if I did join which I do not think I would consider, I am fearful of being deployed somewhere in the Middle East. Especially after the airstrikes launched about a week ago. Residents of Fayetteville NC should be proud to have more military enlistments than Manhattan considering the size of each city. I would never consider it unfair for Manhattan to have less enlistments unless the citizens enlisting were not volunteering, but as long as those enlisting have the choice to enlist the amount from each area of the country should not matter as long as we have enough members in the armed forces. I come from Atlanta, Georgia and there are many schools near where I live that have an R.O.T.C. program however, my school is not one of them. I also cannot say we have any military personel talking to about enlisting since we never see men in uniform.
I have never had the drive to enlist in the U.S. armed forces, it may partially be because I have no living family members who are veterans or still in service but, I cannot say this article has shaped my view or decision. Even though I would not like to enlist in the armed forces I have a deep respect for those who do, since it is a big sacrifice one must make and comes with a risk. I believe it one of the most important jobs in our country and those who participate do not receive the credit they deserve. There are benefits to joining the armed forces like much better healthcare and others provided by the government, but I will say that if I did join which I do not think I would consider, I am fearful of being deployed somewhere in the Middle East. Especially after the airstrikes launched about a week ago. Residents of Fayetteville NC should be proud to have more military enlistments than Manhattan considering the size of each city. I would never consider it unfair for Manhattan to have less enlistments unless the citizens enlisting were not volunteering, but as long as those enlisting have the choice to enlist the amount from each area of the country should not matter as long as we have enough members in the armed forces. I come from Atlanta, Georgia and there are many schools near where I live that have an R.O.T.C. program however, my school is not one of them. I also cannot say we have any military personel talking to about enlisting since we never see men in uniform.
Personally I wouldn’t think about the military as a career at first. I do agree that there are lots of misconceptions about joining the armed forces. Most Army jobs are not in combat. There are careers in tech and medicine also.
I don’t think that everyone should serve because some people simply aren’t built for it mentally or physically. It’s a choice and a very important one at that. Some people do it just so they can afford to go to college. Some do it because a family member or mentor served. There are hundreds or reasons one would want to enlist but. There’s not much we can do about the fact that most recruits are from certain counties or have military family.
Of course I am extremely grateful for every person serving our country but that doesn’t mean I want to join them.
For those that have enlisted within our armed forces, I have a great respect for what they are willing to do to preserve our national security. But I myself do not believe I will join the military, although I have considered it. I feel like there are still ways that one can show their patriotism and support for the armed forces without enlisting. I hope to continue to support veterans and active troops in the future, whether that is donating funds or time with them. My decision to not enlist is nothing against the military and what they do, but rather a personal choice. I think what makes our armed forces so great is the voluntary service that brave men and women are willing to do to represent their country.
I personally wouldn’t sign up to join the military. I always have felt like it isn’t the type of thing that I could do, or do well at. But if anyone can and wants to join, I would encourage them to do so. I honestly trust the military, because they’re here to help America, but I do feel that war and fighting aren’t really the way America should be going. I also believe that America should continue being an all-volunteer force because not only would it let people be happier with getting a choice, but since there is no shortage of workers it makes more sense to go voluntarily. Manhattan and other heavily populated areas should not be scrutinized for not having as many volunteers as other places. Maybe the people in that specific area are helping America in another way, like being industrial for example. Not everyone necessarily has to be in the military to be supporting America.
I personally don’t believe in war, which is why I would not really think to enlist into the military, I also don’t think that lifestyle is right for me. However, if I was drafted, I would take into consideration all that this country has done for me. I think it is too early for me to make a call on a life-changing decision like this. My school does not promote military service, we are a magnet/STEM school so that would not make much sense. I think most people in my community are opposed to war or have never thought about enlisting in the military because it is not brought up. I’d say Philadelphia is a more liberal city, and even if schools in our district did promote this, I think parents would be upset and kids our age would already have opinions of their own. Where in the U.S. you grew up definitely plays a huge role in this kind of decision making.
I have actually thought about going into the military as a nurse just to get experience. I am really interested in helping other people and I think it would be a great way to satisfy that. I have also always wanted to study abroad for college and I think through the military I would get the experience of being able to travel and go to places that I have never been before. My step dad was in the navy and my oldest brother was too, so my family is very supportive of it. My mom doesn’t LOVE the idea but she knows that it would be a good learning experience for me.
The article talks about how the main issue is that most people who are being recruited come from the south and are the sons of former soldiers. More military bases in the south, more recruits. More veterans, more people interested. States in the Northeast have fewer bases so they have trouble getting recruits from those areas. As a solution, they are starting to up their marketing with new careers in tech and medicine, along with financial aid for people in loads of student debt. I agree and think that the majority of recruits are family members, but there are still a small amount of people that join just to join; and that’s where it all starts. I think it’s important that families are continuing on the tradition because without them, we would have even less people.
I would consider serving in the armed forces. Two of my aunts have served in the armed forces for years and they love their jobs. They get to travel and can retire by the time they are 40. I have considered finding jobs where I would work and live on base but never have I wanted to be on the front lines. I think if I ever go into the armed forces profession, I would enlist in the air force. I would enlist in the air force because I think fighting for our country, protecting it from attacks in space and the atmosphere above, would be awesome. The fact that you, in a way when you choose to enlist, sign your life over for however long is kind of a deterrent for me because I like having the freedom to change my mind. I would however, find great pleasure in knowing I am apart of a force that is protecting our country.
In the article, Sergeant Comes said that enlisting “enabled him to build a good life.” This is something my dad says all the time. There are definitely some trade-offs regarding joining the armed forces. In a way, you lose freedom but there are benefits like being educated and housing. The article also talks about how there are many people from certain places joining the armed forces. I don’t see a problem with it but I can see how there are concerns. After all, this is America, the land of the free.
I never have been interested in the armed forces before, but with tensions rising with Iran, I have been more exposed to the concept of joining. After reading the article, I would consider serving in the U.S. armed forces. The benefits and job security are the two areas that stand out to me the most. However, I would never want a combat role in the armed forces. I could never see myself inflicting harm against any others, even if it is approved. If I were to enlist, I would choose a role as a medic or a technician, out of the line of fire. I despise conflicts and enjoy staying as far from them as possible, especially when guns are involved.
I do see the armed forces as a very important part of our country's place in the world. Without our powerful military, the United States would be more susceptible to foreign attacks and conflicts. I see the military as a group of extremely patriotic Americans who want to experience the action of the world first hand. They are the brave souls who risk everything they have to protect us Americans back home. I have massive respect for our soldiers of the past and the present.
In my case I don't think that I would personally join the military. Though it is a wonderful thing to do I doesn't seem like something I would like to pursue when I'm older. I don't think I would be able to leave my family and friends, to come back and start my life all over again. As much as I respect those in the military I don't think that war is necessary. Why should thousands of people die and suffer because a couple of grown men and women can't seem to agree with each other. But, I have a lot of time ahead of me to think of a decision.
I actually am planning on serving in the Armed Forces. I plan on joining the National Guard when I am 17. We had a speaker come into one of my classes one time, and his talk made me want to join. I’ve always wanted to do something to help people, and with the Guard, that is exactly what I would be doing. They also help pay for tuition and fees when you go to college.
I think that everyone should at least consider joining the Armed Forces, even if you are thinking you don’t want too. You should at least read about the different divisions you can join. For high school students, like I said, the Guard is a great thing to join. It helps with your education, and you gain good traits along the way.
The article states, “Youth unemployment turns out not to be the prime factor. And the racial makeup of the force is more or less in line with that of young Americans as a whole, though African-Americans are slightly more likely to serve. Instead, the best predictor is a person’s familiarity with the military.” The main reason people enlist, is because their family has a history of being in the Armed Forces. People with family backgrounds in the military are more likely to join. My dad said that if he could go back and enlist, he probably would. That is something he says that he regrets he didn’t do. This is one of the reasons I am considering joining the Armed Forces.
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This country is one of the greatest countries there is. I come from a generation of immigrants and am really proud of my roots because it is in those countries where my wonderful mother was raised and grew to be who she is. However, I am grateful for and thank God that I have the great blessing to live in a country that has offered me the may things that I have. Despite its many flaws and late divisions, the United States is a place where, compared to many other places, it is one of the greatest places to live in. The freedom, security, and provisions it offers to live, is one that regrettably isn't known by many around the world. Those who spit on these countries existent seem to lack gratefulness in their hearts for the previously mentioned. I would fight for this country and the flag.
Reading this article definitely changed my view on this topic. It made me realize that the military is more than just fighting in combat zones. It’s possible to have a job where I’m not in danger, but can receive the benefits of working in the military. I’m not saying that I definitively want to pursue this career path, I’m just more open-minded to the option. The benefits of working in the military would be financial benefits and stability. The downsides would be long periods away from home. Some military careers are dangerous and could cause PTSD. However, some jobs are positioned away from combat, and PTSD is much less likely. I don’t think all Americans should be forced to serve in the military. Some people don’t support war and violence. Others wouldn’t like the downsides of the job, such as long periods away from home. Some Americans would not score well on the military aptitude test, so they are unfit to join the military. People unfit or unwilling to join the military should not be forced into it. I support Germany’s conscription method. Every citizen must serve in the military for a certain amount of time, or they can participate in volunteer work for a slightly extended amount of time. This way, people have a choice so they can fit their beliefs better.
I would not consider enrolling in the armed forces because I don't want to get stationed in another country also I don’t like the training that you have to do. Another thing is that. I don’t think that it is for me, I like to play videogames play sports and watch youtube and I want to be able to do those things and not have a focus on the military. I would also not do this because they make you shave your head. I don’t like the idea of getting up and ready for the day by a certain time or else physical punishment. I also don’t want to be moved from my family. I don’t like the idea of leaving the country to fight other people who I don’t know. I would feel bad injuring someone no matter who they are. This article does not change my views on enrolling in the military. Those are my views on enrolling in the military.
Right now I would not consider serving. I am trying to focus on getting a career and I just never really wanted to go into the Armed Forces. Yes everything they do for the country is great and to serve them is an honor but that's just not my state of mind.
If I was in huge college debt and this was a way for me to get out of that and give me a good job then that's when I would consider going into the army.
Now if the country was in a big state of emergency because no one is serving then that when I would also consider going in and trying to help defuse the situation. I just don't have the mindset to be set off to a new place and have a good chance at dying that's just not my mind set.
Although I have respect for those who have joined the army and have served this country wholeheartedly, I personally would not consider joining the army. Joining the army has never been a thought that has ever crossed my mind and think that mainly has to do with my perception of America and the military. I remember most of my childhood years going to protests for many different issues regarding the Middle East. I think being from Middle East plays a big part in my view of America. My whole life I felt that America was always against the Middle East and being someone who identifies as both American and Middle Eastern, I have always felt out of place. I always felt that in a way fighting for America would be fighting against my roots and my heritage.
I wouldn’t consider joining the United States armed forces, even with all the benefits added to it. I don’t want to risk my life in any situation for a nation whose leader I don’t respect. The article did not change my mind much, but it provided me vital information if I was ever to reconsider my choices. In my viewpoint, the military is one of the most crucial assets of a nation. During wartime, a nation’s combat force is its symbol of honor or valor throughout the world. I believe that the military enlisting systems of the U.S. is not properly functioning to some degree. In my opinion the enlisting should be based off of population of the area and the extra volunteers should also be encouraged. My school doesn’t offer any any R.O.T.C. programs or Army recruiters and I have not seen any in my community.
While I believe that people who serve our country are great people doing a great thing, I myself am not inclined to do so. On the news, you see people that do terrible things, and people that have terrible things done to them, in war. I never want to take that chance. I also don't think that I have the mental toughness to kill someone, without thinking about it horribly. I believe that the military is something that is very important, and if you serve in the military, you should be commended, but I think that I am not ever going to be ready to serve in the military. There are also many benefits of enlisting in the military. For example, people who serve in the military, get many benefits form the government. If stationed in another country, you can understand the culture of that country. Also, being in the military forms a very special relationship between you and others in the military, that could last all your life. Some drawbacks are that you may have to go to war, and see many horrifying things. You way get injured, or die. You have a very good chance of getting PTSD. I think that it is not surprising that many people in the military are from military families. There is a much higher chance of being exposed to the military, if your family member is in the military. I also think that people have to have choices on whether they want to join the military.
Well I have never thought of enlisting into the army. For me it would not be a thing that I am really interested in. I am more of an athletic person who likes to play sports im nor of a video game person. And I still have plenty of time to decide because I am not yet old enough I am considered under aged. And I have always had that one fear that I would get drafted into the army then have to be forced to serve. Then i would have to sacrifice my life which would be getting injured that would be life threatening or just dying. Unlike sports you can recover from the injury in no time and there is no chance of dying. So would want to be or think about being in the army because it's just not my thing.
I personally wouldn’t want to serve in the military because I don’t think I’m physically capable to. Usually, people who serve in the military are very strong, and even if I did sign up, I don’t think they will want me. Also, what I don’t think people realize is how difficult the army is. If you actually fight in a war, it’s a big mental game too, because you will see so many people dying, and you have to overcome nightmares. I have considered serving, but I’m not of age, and I think it’s too difficult for me.
I personally wouldńt serve in the army, but if I were to join the army, I would probably be a medic. I am very weak and would do very poorly in the fighting routines. I know a bit about first aid, and I am not the type to be afraid of seeing injuries (I have seen pretty bad ones, too), so if there was to be a very dangerous war, I would consider that. If help is needed, I wouldn't hesitate. 💛~
I would not consider joining the military, and this article has not convinced me otherwise. I have no desire to go fight in meaningless oil wars, risking life and limb to come back with PTSD, with my only contribution being to help a rich man get richer. Don’t get me wrong, I have respect for our troops and our veterans, but I disagree intensely with America’s history of imperialism and see no reason to become a cog in that machine.
Frankly, I’m disgusted by the ad campaigns trying to brand the military as a way to get out of college debt. The system put in place by the rich gets young Americans in mountains of debt, then says “oh, well we’ll help you get out of it if you put your life on the line for us.” It makes one wonder if part of the reason elites oppose free college is because that would eliminate one of their recruitment pools. First you put someone in debt, then you make them go fight for oil. It’s simple, really.
I absolutely believe the military should remain all volunteer. I don’t, and I can not stress this enough, want to die for oil. I don’t support us being in the Middle East, I don’t support us intervening in other countries in general. There is no way I would fight for something I fundamentally disagree with. John Kelly's proposal of blind patriotism is dystopian, not a cure-all for the divide we see in America today.
There are a lot of merits to serving in the U.S. Military. College. A stable career. Patriotism. There are a lot of things pulling me towards a career within the Military. With that being said, I will not ever serve in the US Armed Forces because despite their protection of my freedom, and selflessness, and benefits, there are better uses for my time.
Why would I enlist to fight a war against Iran when Black and Brown children are still gunned down and beaten by cops on our own soil; when schools in poor communities remain grossly underfunded; when violence is still prevalent in our streets and slavery is still prevalent in our prisons?
Ignoring my issues with our conflict in the Middle East; ignoring my issues with the ethical practices of our military; ignoring my issues with our defense budget of world-conquest proportions, it’s just not practical for me to join the military.
A lot of work needs to be done on American ground. We remain far from the utopia we claim to be, and I don’t like that. I don’t like that black America remains steps behind its counterparts. I don’t like that members of the LGBT community are berated, bullied, and beaten. I don’t like that America still has progress to be made, so I want to change that.
The change I so desire cannot be made if I spend my life oversees, however. If I want to help in the struggle to bring America up to the standards we claim to hold ourselves too, then I cannot possibly dedicate my life to the military.
@Jacob Jarrett I'm aware of how the military can change someone's life for the better, most of the time people who enlist won't actually go on the battlefield, so they're not actually risking their lives. I understand people who would want to join the military, and all the power to them. But personally I think it's a waste.
Military is by far the least of our problems in America, the amount of money spent on building a defense that isn't even needed is absurd, and there is no question that it could be spent in better ways.
We wouldn't even need the defense if we stopped provoking other countries. As you said, the issues surrounding the military itself, while big, aren't the only factors.
I simply don't understand why the government insists on putting so much money outside the perimeters of the country. I'm not really one to care much about the military at all but when you start throwing big number of money along with the fact that America has so many problems inside it's borders already. It just feels like such a waste.
We're fighting a war outside of ourselves and ignoring the one ranging withing our walls. I wouldn't attempt to make progress elsewhere in the world when the country already has enough problems on it's own.
My dad was in the coast guard and I’ve wanted to serve because of him for a while. I know that the boot camp is a real struggle but there is a lot of good that you could potentially do. This article has done absolutely nothing to say my opinion in any way. I think that the military is a good thing, though we spend way too much on it for no reason. Joining definitely isn’t a patriotic duty nor is it a corrupt power house, I think it’s just something that we have and that something is somewhat important. I am not too sure of the benefits of the military but the drawbacks can be potentially life ruining depending on your situation. You could die, if you are married then they could either: cheat on you, steal all of your money, get depressed and might cause self harm, take kids if you have any and/or lose touch with your kids. I don’t really have a reason for wanting to join other than my dad joining. This article has got it down on telling you what types of people want to join. According to the areas where more people are enlisting, I really don’t think it matters. If it’s a choice that people make, then let them make it on their own, we are quite a citizen-rich country compared to hundreds of others. And upon that, my school also has a recruitment place and ROTC as well as another ROTC recruitment place at the nearby middle school.
My dad was in the coast guard and I’ve wanted to serve because of him for a while. I know that the boot camp is a real struggle but there is a lot of good that you could potentially do. This article has done absolutely nothing to say my opinion in any way. I think that the military is a good thing, though we spend way too much on it for no reason. Joining definitely isn’t a patriotic duty nor is it a corrupt power house, I think it’s just something that we have and that something is somewhat important. I am not too sure of the benefits of the military but the drawbacks can be potentially life ruining depending on your situation. You could die, if you are married then they could either: cheat on you, steal all of your money, get depressed and might cause self harm, take kids if you have any and/or lose touch with your kids. I don’t really have a reason for wanting to join other than my dad joining. This article has got it down on telling you what types of people want to join. According to the areas where more people are enlisting, I really don’t think it matters. If it’s a choice that people make, then let them make it on their own, we are quite a citizen-rich country compared to hundreds of others. And upon that, my school also has a recruitment place and ROTC as well as another ROTC recruitment place at the nearby middle school.
I don’t think I would ever consider joining the US armed forces, because I think it would be too dangerous for me and I would be too nervous. I definitely am not fit for that job, so I would be no help to the armed forces. I would also we too afraid of getting hurt and being disabled for the rest of my life or being traumatized. I don’t think all Americans should have to serve in the military, because I feel like most of us wouldn’t survive and there are people like me who aren’t fit for the job at all.
Joining the U.S military would not be a very bad idea. In fact some say that it would be a good idea. You make a stable income to provide for your family while still having the honor of serving your country. Many people think that the military is all about war and death. But in reality, most military recruits never go into battle.
I believe that serving your country is a great thing, but I think that I am not personally qualified for a position such as this. I haven’t really thought about enlisting when I’m older because it doesn’t seem like something that I would enjoy and more of something I would fear, you see people who die or are left disabled from serving and I’m worried thinking that could be me. Maybe it could be something that I would consider in the future, but I have a lot of time ahead of me and it is too soon to make any decision like that.
@Theodore Loshi I completely agree with you! As serving your country is a great thing, it still comes with many flaws. I most likely won’t join the military, but it wouldn’t be a bad idea
Yes military recruiters come to our school during our lunch periods. When they come they encourage us to join the military. They are also very welcoming and cool when they are here giving a good impression. It’s kind of cool to see them when they are here because it re unsures the safety of our country.
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The American Armed Forces reign powerful in all places of the world. There are many liberties to having an outstanding military like ours, and one of the most important ones is one that we built the US around—free will. There is free will wether you voluntarily join or decide not to. Despite one’s choice, the forces will still protect and fight for you. I have always thought of joining the military as the ultimate way to display love and allegiance toward the country. I have strongly debated going into the military for all of my life. After all of that time I really think that I would go into the forces if it didn’t interfere with the things going on in my life. However, if I was forced into it, I would be reluctant.
@Taylor Posey I agree! If I were forced into joining the military I wouldn’t be mad. I would be proud to serve my country as many of our ancestors did.
As a U.S citizen I’ve seen the different views on the army, I’ve heard the stories and let me tell you. The army is no joke it takes dedication, not the type of dedication you need like when joining a sport, but it’s the type you need to actually train and be able to get the job done. As we all know (well I know) I would be a great fit for the army because of my athletic abilities, intelligence and my lack of care. Yet, I would never serve, it’s brought damaged upon many young recruits. I do thank every solider that serves but, I would never serve if their is no purpose. Why would I fight a war either we started or we have no business being in. At the end of the day America needs to stay in America’s own business we have no authority to worry about others, but i guess if that was the case we would all get along.
My views and attitudes toward the military is mainly negative, but that’s just because I’m a pacifist. I think war doesn’t really solve issues the right way, because both sides are getting hurt. If people in the United States are killed and then we send a missile to the perpetrators and kill more people, and then they retaliate after that, it’s just a continuous cycle of people hurting people.
I actually watched a documentary where an army soldier recalled that the people on duty were immature and angry. I believe that many people who are fighting for the army are fighting for the wrong reasons, because they are angry and don’t think rationally. After 911, the United States snuck into Pakistan without telling the Pakistani government and killed Osama bin Laden.
The army also has a heavy effect on the person’s family. If you have a partner and kids, the will have to take care of the kids all on her own, and if you are killed your children won’t have a mother/father.
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@Tori Okorodudu I agree and think that joining the military can be very risky and would definitely leave long last effects on you mentally. Although, I do think it is important that we have people who are interested in being recruited. I think that you can even get a minimal job in the military, like being a nurse or tech, and still come out with great benefits and being able to say you did something for your country.
@Tori Okorodudu Surely you can lack the urge to join the armed forces but does that warrant a negative view on soldiers and their motives? You can, of course, criticize the government for their legislation and choices but why must you insult the men and women that put their life on the line for us civilians? War is terrible, surely but its human to fight them and therefore a country should be expected to possess a force capable of defending itself and its values. That is even more true with a world superpower such as the U.S. -Peter
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@Tori Okorodudu I see what your saying, but we still need people to join the military. While war may be bad, it’s going to happen at some point, and we still need some line of defense. You said that many people in the military are angry, while that may be true for some people, there are still a lot of people there because they want to do good. They want to serve their country. Going into the military when you have a family is going to be tough, but some people are willing to take that risk.
I wouldn’t consider joining the U.S army because I don’t think that it would be something that I would want to do. If I was forced to, however, I would participate in it. I think it is a good thing to do for your country and I think it has a big impact on the country. You are fighting for your country and I feel like that’s a form of respect for the country. From the article, I can see why people would end up joining the army. But I’m not really under those circumstances in my lifestyle so I don’t think it’s really necessary to join in my case.
@Roman Shaaban
Everyone does their own things for their own reasons. If you join the Army, you are proudly serving your country and willing to protect your people, no matter what. It is a great honor to be in the military and you are respected by so many people because of what you would have done in the service. Being a soldier not only means being physically capable, but also mentally willing to do whatever it takes to do your part for America.
@Roman Shaaban
I agree. I would not volunteer or enlist in the military, because it is not in my interests, but if there comes a time when the United States is ever directly threatened or when there's a draft, I will not hesitate to defend my country.
As much as I respect people who serve in the military I don’t think that it’s for me. I have family that worked in the forces but they aren’t here anymore to tell me about it. For me personally I’m not the type of person who would do something like that. I’ve seen the kind of stuff they have to go through during training and I don’t think I’d be able to pull that off. Even though I wouldn’t enlist for the military anyone who serves has my full respect for what they do. They are the ones who keep us safe and I know their jobs are not easy. I do believe that more people should enlist and help people but I don’t think that will be me.
I do not think that I would want to be in the US armed forces when I get older, nor would I be fit for the job. Whenever people think of the training that it would take to be in the US armed forces they think of the strength it would take. For myself I am not too worried about that but the mental toll it would take on me. I feel like being away from my family and dealing with all of the grief surrounding the fact that I might never see my family again would kill me. Not just that but I do not think I would be able to deal with the thought of brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, passing away in the blink of an eye. Although I have great respect for people in the US armed forces I would just not be fit for the job.
Although the military is something that is tied to immense honor and bravery, I would not want to join the military. I do believe that it is something that is very important, especially to our safety as a country, but I just do not agree with violence on our fellow human beings. Especially in the 21st century, we are very connected around the world, and to me going into combat with other nations is not only devastating, but it is also just an attack on our humanity as a whole. What is more, I would be, for sure, in favor of helping my country in any other capacity as it is my duty to give back to my country. Despite enlisting in the military being a form of this sort of giving back, I just do not agree with the idea of fighting our brothers and sisters on the other side of the planet, instead I believe that we should try our absolute best in trying to be peaceful with all nations, practice effective diplomacy. Because the people who can prevent a major worldwide dispute, are just as important and brave, as those who are deployed to protect our country. I salute all of my fellow citizens in the military and respect them very immensely, but for me I believe that I would do a greater deal, in my opinion and personal capacity, to attempt to bring peace to the world rather than join the military.
@Zain Dhatwani I think you make an interesting point in not wanting to join the military not only because you don’t feel fit for the job but because you think we should be attempting to establish peace with other nations. I honestly never thought about that and I think it’s because I always thought that being apart of an armed force your job is to fight. I myself would not join the military but do think it’s important to give back to our country, especially when many people are fighting and risking their lives for it. Even with the benefits that come from joining the military, I couldn’t picture putting myself into that situation and environment, although I respect the people who do. Instead of focusing on building the military, I think we should be more focused on promoting peace and easing tensions with other nations.
I am not surprised to see the disparities in the number of voluntary military troops. I am constantly hearing from my teachers, friends, and relatives about people who have been killed serving in the army. This has put doubt in my mind, and I constantly think about the impact war has had on everybody’s lives. Additionally, some people are misguided about the military. If a kid sees his friends are applying to the military, he might, because of peer pressure. Additionally, people who get drafted into the military may hate it, leading to them being uncooperative and maybe downright harmful. I also don’t think that Fort Braggs gives more soldiers. This is because that may be their contribution to society, while people in manhattan may specialize in another industry, such as technology or business.
Although it would be an honor to serve in the U.S forces, I do not feel like we should be at war right now. We have bigger problems as a world like climate change, deforestation, mass fires, etc. I do believe we should always be ready just in case but our army is big enough to take on anyone and I thank the people that serve this country. If it comes down to it I will serve but I hope it doesn’t but, we have bigger problems.
I’ve always thought that joining the military could be a career for me but it is really far removed from my family’s culture and the culture of where I live. The benefits are the main reason I might want to join since paying off student debt would be a really good head start into adult life. That said, I don’t really view the military in a positive or negative light. While I respect the soldiers I don’t really care about what they’re doing.
While the military is an important part of our country and enlisting is seen as a great honor, I do not feel compelled to join, despite my families military history: my father went to boot camp and would have be deployed if the US went to war, and my grandfather served in the Korean War. Personally, I do not see the benefits of joining. I understand that the military offers financial stability and other benefits, but to me, these are not worth the risk of dying. Beyond that, I find the actions of the military in humane at times; they claim to be protecting the people, yet they storm villages and kill innocent civilians. If you want to provide protection, you should provide it for all, not just those of your like nationality. If the battle is against a hate group, such as ISIS, why should families suffer the cost of losing their homes and loved ones? Thus, I do not see enlisting into the military as a suitable path for me, but I respect those that are passionate for their country and are enthusiastic about protecting others, if that truly is their intent.
I have never considered being in the military, nor do I want to be in the military. I think part of it has to do with my upbringing. My family has always been pretty anti-war. I remember my grandpa telling me about how when he was in his 20s, he got drafted into the military, but because of his religion, he didn’t have to go. Instead, he spent 2 years in Mexico teaching children English. I think that the military is an important thing, but I don’t consider to be a patriotic duty.
I think that it is fair that more states or counties have more people in the military than in other places. If you try to make it even, you will probably end up with a lot of people who don’t want to serve, and probably won’t do as good of a job as people who want to do it. That’s why I don’t like drafting people into the military. Unless there aren’t enough people, or it’s absolutely necessary, I don’t think there should be military drafts.
Although I agree that serving in the military can teach you important qualities, I do not believe that anyone should be forced into service. For one, if someone does not want to serve the quality of their work would not be as good as someone who has chosen to serve; it could also increased the number of deserters in wartime. In addition, military service does not align with everyone’s beliefs. For those who are pacifist, military service could go against a core philosophy, an idea that could also be tied to their religion. Thus, forcing them into military service would also force them to go against their personal or religious beliefs.
Yes I would consider to serve in the U.S. armed forces. I would join them, because they have a big goal to protect this country and they have to maintain their pride of their country. I do also know that special military people come down by the lunch room by the cafeteria to try to recruit new people who are interested in joining . This article does affect my view on joining the armed forces since it's being called a career to others who understand that they are in the armed forces and I totally get that to people.
I’d like to also say that our school does encourage to take the military aptitude exam. Although I would like to see more more military people in our school. And I’m lucky enough that I don’t have to serve in the armed forces. Being part of the armed forces and fighting for our life isn’t always easy sometimes. So I’m pretty thankful for them.
@Ralph Gabric I have very much respect for you as you are willing to serve our country. This is something that I don't believe that I could do. There are also those recruiters and programs such as JROTC which help to prepare you for the military. People who serve in the armed forces are very brave and are greatly respected by our country's citizens. The families of the people who serve are also strong in a different way. They live day to day and never know if their loved ones are still safe and alive, as they may not be able to communicate daily.
Me Being someone who wants to go to the air force I don't like how you can be higher rank just from knowing former army men. This will make it harder for me to rise the ranks and lead strike team or something like that. But knowing people is not the only way you can go to school and that is what im doing. I am going to try to go to the air force academy and graduate one of the top pilots.
I think that it makes a lot of sense that some states will have more people who enlist this is because that is how those kids have been raised forever. They don't have as many choices as to what they want to do and im sure that the place with a higher rate are more towards poor place. The kids in this place can't go to a good college or get anything but the army offers those things for them.
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While serving our country seems to be one of the most selfless and well respected duties, I do not believe that I have the same mental strength and fortitude that the entirety of the incoming soldiers have. Because I am completely opposed to joining the army, I feel that it would be almost disrespectful for me to serve because I do not share the same deep rooted passion that the recruits do. While I would be performing the selfless act of serving my country, I would not deserve the same admiration that the individuals who willingly joined would. By forcing everyone to have the same chance of being enlisted in the military, like a draft, I believe it belittles the sense of respect and reverence that comes with the decision of men and women who are truly passionate about serving because it would be regarded as just a customary coming of age tradition. I could never make this ultimate sacrifice and I do not believe we should have a draft however, I have nothing but respect for the people who sacrifice their lives so I am lucky enough to be given the choice of whether I want to serve or not.
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Although serving in the army would bring me great pride and overall positive morale into my life, the niche interest must be already in your options for a career choice, and the risk that comes along with the job is way more than enough for me to consider joining Armed Forces. Generous benefits may be awarded to proficient members, but that is in exchange from the absolute 360 their life must endure when joining, many leave behind loved ones and other things that are way too important to my identity as a person for me to leave them and spend my days away from. I think those with the skills and who are interested will be the best course of action for recruitment efforts going forward as this is a topic many will be stubborn upon, as myself. With the jobs being filled with people actually wanting to be in that career, the military should receive the production of professionals, rather than common folk who regret their decision to join and aren’t passionate for their work.
The military has always been something that I have both respected and despised in my short 17 years of life. I have the utmost respect for those of our population, and of immigrants who are willing to put their own life at risk, to sacrifice years of their life away from their families and homes, for the protection and interests of our country. However the actions of the military and our country as a whole in the last 50 years cannot be completely seen as positive. The war in Iraq destabilized the region further than it was before, and our consistent meddling in foreign affairs to further our national interests have resulted in a massive loss of life, homes, and happiness. Furthermore, the percent of our national budget dedicated to our military dwarfs any other country in the world by several orders of magnitude. Money that could be spent in improving the lives of the people at home, improving education, improving healthcare, improving infrastructure, improving lives. It is for these reasons that I would not serve in our military, it is not a matter of bravery or risk, I simply cannot support the current way that things are run. With that said, there is one case I actually would both support, and join the military in—the defense of our nation from another country. Other than this unlikely scenario I would completely avoid enlistment.
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@Ali A I agree with you entirely. I have nothing but respect for the actual people in the military and veterans, a lot of my family served. However, I share your sentiment of complete disagreement with the past 50 years of US policy. I don't support meaningless oil wars, or regime change wars, or any other symbol of American Imperialism, and I don't want to become a simple piece in the Military Industrial Complex.
Although it is an honor to be in the army, I believe that I would not handle being apart of the army. I’ve heard stories from my mom and dad about their family members that served in the Indian army and while it sounds that they enjoyed serving their country, I do not have that same mentality nor strength to do the same. I would be afraid to be away from my family that long and also live everyday not knowing what could happen to me or to my family. I would like to help my country yes, but I feel like I can do it in another way. Just struggling to get used to the idea that I will be in college in a couple of years, I still get anxious thinking about it so I don’t think that it would be possible for me. While it is not for me, I think that it is great that there are people out there that are willing to join the army and serve their country.
@Harsimran Lehal
I understand what your saying but have you ever thought that the feeling of not knowing what could happen is why people join. For me i'm not scared because you don't know what will happen, you can look at that two ways. One you don't worry about what will happen because odds are in your favor. Two though you like the thrill of not knowing what will happen kinda like a scary movie i'm a mix of both. You could also be a person who lives for the moment and don't worry about dying, which is a big factor to me.
If your scared of not being able to make it that will go away in training will you work on your skills and become ready for a fight. All other fears will probably leave you in that time as well that why I think anyone can go.
Although serving for your country is a very rewarding and honored thing to do, I have never been interested in it. I believe that the people that do serve are very brave people and I am very grateful for their sacrifice for our country, but personally I do not think I would do very well in the army. That’s why I believe the draft is not the best idea, because I believe that if someone does not feel comfortable risking their life they should not be forced to. My grandfather was drafted in the Vietnam war and I am very thankful and proud of his service, but I hope my brother does not consider because I’m not sure I would be able to handle the idea of him constantly in danger.
@Brei Starmann I like some of your points here. I agree that someone shouldn't be forced to risk their lives or be put in a situation where they might be expected to harm others (even if the 'others' are 'enemies' of the United States). What if there were some way to serve without risking your life? I think more people would serve if they were allowed to choose an area of service. If one doesn't feel comfortable with the ethics/morality of war, battle, etc., what if one could serve in other types of ways? I believe if the military were more willing to accommodate people with certain ideas/beliefs/morals/etc. then more people might be willing to volunteer for specific types of service (where they wouldn't potentially end up in compromising situations). What do you think?
I myself have always wanted to be a soldier from a young age. My plan is to join up after college so I can first get a degree for after life in the military. It’s difficult to explain to other why I want to serve and fight for my country to others but I know in myself that it’s all I’ve ever wanted in life. As tensions continue to rise with Iran I am starting to see my peers talk about military service more often as many believed that we were going to war. I personally have no trouble joining up but I acknowledge the fact that my opinion on this topic is very unpopular throughout my generation. I believe this is due to the fact that our generation has grown up during a war that started before most of us were even born. I believe this has made people think that they will automatically be sent into combat if they join. The truth is that most jobs in the military don’t involve combat and instead focus more on a supporting role.
@Dylan Cafferty I think the reason most of our generation is anti-military is because we are also mostly anti-war. Unfortunately a large amount of people I know automatically assume everyone in the military is pro war, even though that is not the case. There needs to be a more widespread understanding that people in the military are there to protect our country, people, and other soldiers who are in combat.
Unlike you, I have never wanted to go into the military. It just is not for me. However, I would be happy to find a job related to the military, but in the field I go to college for. An example of this is my dad's old job. He used to be a construction manager for a company that specialized in military housing communities. He worked with several different military bases to create quality housing for soldiers and their family to live in.
While I have a deep respect for those who serve in our armed forces and protect out country, I don’t think I would be able to serve in the armed forces. It takes a certain kind of mindset to be able to fight in a war and I honestly don’t think I have that kind of mindset. I would be too paranoid about my surroundings and too paranoid about my friends being safe to be focused on the overall task at hand that was given by the military leaders. I also think I’m too indecisive and hesitant to be a part of the military. Those who serve in the military must be strong-minded, confident, and fearless, I don’t think my brain is fit enough for that. I have a lot of respect for those who are able to serve and the military and I am thankful for all the efforts they put in to help protect our country, however it just is not for me.
@Izzy Williams
I agree that you have to have the mindset to be in the military. I know I could never do anything that would require me to actually shoot A gun at someone I don't think I'd be able to do it. on the other hand I don't thing working on post as a nurse would be that worst thing ever. I mean sure I won't shoot people but I can still serve In another way.
Personally, I don’t feel that joking the army would be the best use of ones academic potentials. While there are many soldiers enlisted into the US army, it feels that the country isn’t in dire need for new recruits, especially those with a better future lined up for them. I would absolutely consider joining the army if a draft was in play, and we were in the midst of fighting for a cause I believed in. The duty of becoming a soldier in active duty is dangerous and life-threatening, so its easy for one to walk the other direction when asked about enlisting to fight for the country.
Although joining the army is an honor, it has never been my passion. My great uncle was drafted for Vietnam and I’ve gotten the privilege to hear first hand what war up is like. It’s filled with violence that I don’t believe I could mentally handle. My uncle loved it though. He loved that he got an opportunity to help people and improve the world. I want to follow his purpose but into a different career. My goal is to become a nurse to help people go back to their own lives and feel touched by the help I gave them. I never really had an interest in the army, but I have very high respect for anyone who wants to enlist.
@Anna Wince I think it is great that while you don't want to join the army you still want to help people. I feel like you having a great uncle was fought in a war and told you all of his stories is amazing and really shows the impact the army had on his life and in turn yours. While his war stories didn't make you eager to join the army like it would have for some they still gave you the feeling that you wanted to make a difference. I think it is great that having a veteran in your family can inspire you in many more ways than becoming a soldier yourself.
I used to maybe want to join the army when I got older but now that I am older I’ve lost interest. My dad and grandpa and probably a lot of other great grandparents that I don’t know about were in the army so that was my reason I wanted to do it when I was younger. My main reason now to not join is because I would miss out on a lot of things that I wouldn’t be able to experience if I was in the army and although this is selfish, I don’t want to make that sacrifice.
I think that people will keep insisting in the army and we are not in any danger of having a shortage of soldiers. It shouldn’t matter where they come from as long as they are interested in protecting our country and will help to keep America strong and safe.
I would never serve in the military. I disagree with war as a concept, and I believe it should be avoided at all costs. I do my best to not ignore, but not be proud of America’s history of imperialism and colonialist genocide. None of the US’s wars have been necessary since the civil war, and I think we should try to leave other countries alone. I don’t have enough pride in this country to die for it.
I think the US should stop getting into wars for oil, so then we might not need to prey on poor families with promises of free college and health benefits. In fact, we could maybe give free college and health benefits to everyone if that happened. The US might not need to spend so much of its budget on military spending, and could focus more on healthcare and schools and services that directly benefit the public.
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@Lily Dahlgren Even in the one post-civil war war I can justify (ww2) we committed numerous war crimes (215,000 japanese civilians in Nagasaki and Hiroshima, massacring surrendered japanese soldiers, mutilation of japenese dead, rape during the battle of Okinawa, attacking rescue boats, shooting seamen in lifeboats, Laconia massacre, Biscari Massacre, massacring prisoners, torture, etc). America is built on war and atrocity, and I don't want to be a part of that
I think the U.S. military force should continue as an all-volunteer force. In fact, I think there is no reason that it shouldn't if there isn't a shortage of soldiers and the current soldiers are happy to serve. I think anyone who doesn't want or need to have no reason to join the military and I have no problem with the military not being diverse. Often, a select group of people has the drive to enlist, and those select groups are the ones fit for a role in the military, not everyone is. When the U.S. still used a draft, many people drafted were unhappy and felt as though their life was being put on hold. But, some people who were not drafted wanted to serve but, never had the opportunity because of the system being used.
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I don’t not consider serving in the armed forces because I just don’t seem interested in serving. This article did change my view on whoever is serving, they most likely come from a family that have served for the country. I see military as a nice way to show your patriotic duty but I don’t think it’s required to serve. Having it be open and it should continue as a all-volunteer force. Our school does have army recruiters and the amount of times they come is fine. They don’t come too often or not at all, they come here and there. Having the option to volunteer in the force is good enough because I think people should have an option to join the forces or not
I have never really considered serving in the U.S. armed forces. I would be very afraid to be on a battlefield. If I did join, I would not want to have to combat, though I admire the people who do risk their lives. I know that they are proud too, and they should be. Instead, I would do something else, like perhaps being a doctor.
I live near many college campuses, and often see students in uniforms reporting to work. Sometimes they are hanging up the American flag, or sometimes they are running with heavy backpacks. I do think that enlisting in the military is a great option if you do not want to have a lot of college debt to pay off and because there are health benefits, even though you have to wake up before the sun and keep up with the rest of your life. It must take a lot of grit and organization to be in the military and attend school at the same time. I think that enlisting should not be enforced upon people, though it should be encouraged to serve our country in some way.
My community does not encourage enlisting in the army in any way. Maybe they should, since it clearly has an impact on the number of people who enlist.
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Though I have considered joining the armed forces, I don’t feel that going to fight in a war would be a correct fit for me. Going to fight is not what I want to do. I am a generally non-violent person, and I don’t feel that potentially purposely killing anybody is where I want to end up in my life. In the article, Brett Dollar said that joining the military was her way to, “try and be of service,” but I feel that, at least for me, there are other ways to do this. Personally I want to become a doctor so that I could be of service in life. I also do know that there are medical jobs within the military, and I would consider joining those, but I also feel that getting a college education early is important to me.
The emergence of a draft seems very unlikely at this point because from past experiences, the U.S. have learned that war is not the answer. If there is a chance the draft returns, it’d have to be under circumstances that are worse than previous wars. Concerning the military, the decision to join is up to people who want to fight. The recent events with Iran has been irritating and hopes of peace being compromised is what needs to be made so millions of lives don’t have to be lost. Personally, I do not want to join the military as my future is already set, however the option is always open to me if tensions rise and I accept fighting for the U.S. in war.
I have never considered joining the military nor will I ever join the military. I think that like the article said, kids and teens usually follow whatever they have grown up with. It’s like if you have a family who have a lot of veterans then you are probably more likely to join the military. I have parents who are against war in general and because of growing up in their household, I would never dream of joining the military at all. Another thing that is probably a factor in why I would never join the military, is that I have grown up going to a Mennonite Christian church and this particular branch of Christianity is more pacifist than most other branches.
I used to want to join the military and serve the U.S, I used to imagine fighting ̈bad guys ̈ and becoming a hero. But as I got older I realised that war is not a good thing, while I am not a pacifist I don’t believe in war unless necessary. I learned that war brings more harm than good and is not always the right answer. I also learned that if no soldiers fought then there would be no war to fight.
I wouldn't ever consider going into the military because I’ve never really considered that as one duty to a citizens country that is required to be patriotic. I would definitely prefer less of a military presence at my school. I think that a school community is not the proper place to have a heavy military presence. If we did it would change the atmosphere in the school and around education. Students would grow up being surrounded by reminders of violence from a young age. My school does not have any military-based clubs available for students. I think that we should have this option for students. If a student does have an interest in the military they should have the option to pursue that path. It should be optional for all students because if a student does not enjoy the aspects of living in the military they should not be forced into it due to the fact that this could change their perspective of the military to a more negative view. Also, there are certain people whose religions or beliefs would not allow them to go into the military. An example of this would be Quakers who do not believe in violence.
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I am not one that would want to volunteer for the military. I do get why some people would, though. It is patriotic and honorable to step up for your country, but I wouldn't want to be put in a dangerous situation, or be forced to fight for something I don't believe in; If there is a war for no reason, I wouldn't want to fight or kill people, someone who has a life, for that. I wouldn't want to risk my life either. Even with the benefits of good healthcare and retirement plans, I still don't think the good outweighs the bad. I would rather go to a good school and get a good education, then get a good job that I enjoy (and preferably does not involve risking my life on a daily basis.) I think that it is important that people volunteer to be part of the military; I don't think drafting is the best, but I can see why it would be necessary. Overall, I think people should. choose what they wish for.
I would not consider serving in the US armed forces. I don’t think I would be able to go through the training and think about how I might be killing someone. I don’t think I would be able to do that. I’m sure that the military is right for some people, but I don’t think I could do it. If conflict didn’t exist, and the world lived in peace, I would be critical of the military. But I do know it has become necessary for countries to survive at this point in history. All the same, I don’t think I could do it.
While I personally respect all US soldiers and have several family members who have been in the army, I would not personally choose to enlist. I already have anxiety and stress in a school setting, where the pressures of homework and tests wear me down, so I couldn’t imagine how mentally tired and scared I would be in a setting where one wrong move means life or death. I also often experience very strong emotions when someone I barely know dies, so it would be very hard for me to watch people I would become friends in the army just suddenly die in front of me. I definitely think the military is very important to our country, though I just don’t believe I could mentally take it, causing me to give even more respect to all soldiers who are courageous enough to willingly put themselves through war for the sakes of our country.
I don't consider serving in the U.S because I'm critical and most likely can't handle being in the armed forces. I think military service is a patriotic duty but we spend so much money on it even though everyone wants peace. I'm not drawn to the qualities because long deployments in dangerous places could cause death and at that point, you won't be able to enjoy the qualities of army life as your dead. My school/community doesn't encourage military service as it doesn't have a R.O.T.C. program and doesn't have a military presence anywhere. I'm critical of the military because we spend so much money such as 600 billion dollars in the year 2018 when we could be spending it on solving other problems. Army veterans have spoken out against America as they cause many conflicts in other countries when they don't need to like Iraq.
My doesn’t really revolve around the military. My dad, served in the military, but left before I was born. It’s crazy because I don’t really think about it much, but my dad was in the Navy. He piloted submarines fueled with nuclear reactors. He’s told me stories, and the stories are what amaze me the most. He told me one story about how he had friends, deployed on different submarines, and the nuclear reactors on the ship malfunctioned and killed everyone on the ship. This scares me a little, but in a bigger way, encourages me to join the military. During all these stories he always refers to my mom as his “lifeline” and always says that she was in the Navy too even though she wasn’t actually enlisted. I always ask, “But mom never served in the Navy, so technically she wasn’t in it, right?” and every time my dad always says something along the lines of, “Technically not. But, she had to support me and help me through all of it. On top of that she has to go through the stress of me actually being out in the world, on a sub that could blow up, and I wouldn’t be able to survive.” And I always see his point. My whole life, service in the military has always seemed like a patriotic duty, a way for a man or woman to prove their loyalty to the U.S. and defend it and all the people who can’t defend themselves.
I think that I would want to serve in the army. Serving my country is a big honor. Also I might be saving people’s lives and that is always good. Besides this serving in the army might start up my life: I will be fit and ready for life.
I have a good relationship towards army soldiers. They help the country. They risk their lives for the lives of citizens. I want to do that too when I grow up.
In my case, I would never join the Army. I’m not extremely scared and I think I would pass the boot camps and such, but joining the Army is just something I don’t want to do. I don’t think that anyone in my family has been in the military and I for sure have not been pressured to join. The benefits of joining the Army are amazing, but it is not worth risking my life. I could go to school to be a doctor or lawyer to save peoples lives instead of killing them. The article didn’t persuade me to want to join but I understand why people would want to join.
I don’t think I would ever join the army. War with Iran doesn’t seem necessary and I think the US can settle this on peaceful terms. I certainly appreciate those who serve in the army, but I don’t think it’s the job for me.
I do not think that I would ever join the military unless there was a draft. I think that it seems scary to go off to a foreign, hostile environment and be shot at while shooting at others. I get that some people feel more responsibility to join the military, and I think that your level of duty felt to join the military depends on where you live. I think that if you do not want to join the military, you should not be entitled to unless there is a draft.
Serving in the armed forces has always been something I’ve considered. I always liked the idea of being apart of the armed forces to go out and do good, and to help both comrades and civilians abroad. Both of my grandfathers served in the armed forces, not in combat positions, but as mechanics and technical help. The non-combat sector is something that has been especially appealing to me, despite the fact that I wouldn’t mind serving in combat, but I feel that my skill set would be much more useful as a technician or something similar. I feel that being apart of the military is the most patriotic thing possible to do for your country, because service members are literally going into the military voluntarily, and risking their lives. I think that the most important drawback is what happens after the military. Often times people go either into military school or straight into basic training right out of high school, and when they complete their service they have no skills to go out and get a job or make a career for themselves. Although there is no ROTC program at my school, there is still a military presence at my school because the head of the high school is a veteran of the navy. The idea that everyone should serve is likely not effective because the direction that the military is moving in currently is one that is away from enlarging personnel, and more towards using combat ready autonomous vehicles as well as remote controlled weapons.
The American Military is a supreme force that is the reason the civilian population can freely do what they need to. Even though civilians looked highly upon the military, now most do not even inquire what life would be like if they served.
I have a unique outlook on the military because my dad went to West Point. After growing up with a dad who was in the military, I realize how much of an important commitment it is to serve our country. Up until a few years ago, I did not want to be in the military because it honestly frightened me, but after going to West Point a year and a half ago, I realized how amazing the military is. Each and every cadet there really believes that they are doing a great thing for our country, and the reality is is that they are. I will serve in the military in the future because I strongly value their mission.
As well as my dad, my oldest brother also went to a military school. To be frank, when my parents first sent him there, he loathed it, but once he realized that it gave him purpose, respect, and a family away from home, he realized it was the best thing for him. Many people try to find purpose in life through religion and their career, but going to the military is a supreme role in society because your purpose is to keep the American population’s freedom to find their own purpose in the world.
The military is a special thing that people should cherish because it protects us and our lives.
I generally lack a sense of nationalism, and while I can see the appeal in going the army, I don’t think I ever will. If I were ever in a circumstance where the United States Army was my only option, I would join, but even with the benefits of serving, but I wouldn’t want to join otherwise.
I also disagree with the ethics of our military, and I think the United States often causes unnecessary conflict so we can justify military spending. I would understand fighting foreign aggression, but it seems that most of the time the US has a hand in these conflicts.
Enlisting in the military can be seen as a citizens patriotic duty, but this only applies if the citizens back up the country’s decision to join the war. Although I am not skeptical of the military itself, it is up to the individual whether they are skeptical or not regarding the government's decisions to involve our armed forces in other countries affairs. I know many of my peers would consider joining simply for the financial benefits. The military can provide funding for your education and healthcare, which can be a deciding factor in a world filled with student debt. Despite this, the uncertainty, potential trauma, and risk that come hand in hand with joining the military are enough to keep many away from this career path.
I come from a family where many members have served in the armed forces, including my dad. Because of that, serving my country is not a foreign concept to me, and I have had thoughts of doing so myself. As I've gotten older, I've considered becoming a surgeon for the marines, but have decided against it for several reasons. The idea of serving my country is something I would be proud to do, but have decided against.
In response to question 5 about school military recruitment, my school of Glenbard West is heavily visited by Armed forces recruiters such National Guard, R.O.T.C, and Navy to name a few. The recruiters visit my school numerous times a year to try and persuade students in joining their program. The frequency that they visit my school is just the right amount, they don’t come too often or too little. Lastly, personally I believe that the armed forces isn’t something I am considering, but for many other students it is an alternative for college, or an idea for a future career.
I would not personally want to join the army, I believe that we do not need to go to war we can settle this on peaceful terms. I appreciate those who do serve, but I do not want to pursue a career in this field at all.
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@Aiden Let’s agree to disagree. Have you ever played sports before? If the starter gets injured it’s the next man up. Not saying we need a draft, but each one of us, US citizens, need to be prepared to fight for our friends and family. The article states “the ability to recruit the number of quality youth with the needed skills sets to maintain our advantage”. Being a recruit plays a huge role in our military. The term “field” is very broad when it comes to the military. There are many different occupations you can hold in the military and still stay away from the violence you are scared of. Don’t let social media mislead you and your decision making. Next time, read the article before you comment.
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I personally would not consider joining the military. I plan on going straight to college and don’t want to have years of my life be used in the military. Just because I personally wouldn’t join doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. A lot of people would benefit greatly from joining. For example, if you’re not sure what you want to do in your life the military would be a great option. Also, if you plan on going to college and don’t want to pay a lot of debt joining would help you take away a lot of the debt. Overall joining the military really depends on the situation you are in. For some it may hinder their process and for other it could allow and unlock certain opportunities for them in their lives.
Reflecting back upon my freshman year, I remember hopping off my bus and peacefully walking towards my house when suddenly a 6’3 muscular man dressed head to toe in camo began to approach me. My heart began to pound as he started to ask me where my brother was, I stuttered out that he went away for college as he then gave me a kind smile and asked me to pass his scary military message along. My views on the military are obvious; it terrifies me. My background conflicts majorly with my beliefs, my dad fought in the Bosnian-Serbian war and witnessed genocide in his country. All the stories he would pass down to me have been emerged into my brain as a warning sign to stay away from enlisting. Throughout reading this article, my beliefs remain the same I will continue to simply walk past the school recruiters in my school hallways with a smile and a huge amount of respect and admiration for the soldiers who serve.
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Though I love this country, I would not want to go to war and fight. I have never thought myself a violent person, and to be put on the front lines would worry me. I would much rather do work on the home front and support my country that war.
Would I ever consider joining the armed forces? This is a question that I think all young people face at least one time in their life and more and more, people are choosing to go the opposite route in search for a college opportunity that can set them up for the rest of their life. Many fail to recognize that incredible benefits that joining the military can have but that seems to still not be enough to sway a large amount of high school graduates towards a career in the military. In part, our generation is built upon the age of technological advancement which leads our youth towards a career in the destined Silicon Valley, and far from a completely foreign nation against an enemy we cannot fully identify or describe. The recent events regarding Iran have thrown this question into the eyes of the nation and for many it was a shock of reality that war is still and always will be an apparent threat. The online response to the escalations in the Middle East have been more comedic than serious, but behind all the WW3 memes and military draft tik toks lies a deep down resentment for war and a fear that our government will disrupt our peaceful lives at home. The idea of a draft has been more of a distant historical event, rather than a current reality. But now more than ever, our youth is questioning its participation in our armed forces and undoubtedly many will take up the call to defend our nation.
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Personally, I wouldn't consider joining the armed forces. Not because I don't respect and admire those in the armed forces, but because I have dreams and aspirations for the future in the working world. I want to go to college and get my masters, work a good well paying job and have a bug family.
The subject of a draft for the possible Third World War has brought up the question, should young adults be required to serve or should serving for the armed forces continue to be on a volunteer basis? Although it would give security in the sense that we have troops that would fight, at the end of the day it is still a citizens choice. America is based on the ideals of freedom and being forced to serve goes against what our country is based upon.
Beyond the fact that forcing citizens to serve contradicts America’s constitutional rights, it may also conflict with religious beliefs, moral beliefs, and the wants of the citizens. For example, multiple religions— like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism— have the core philosophy of “ahimsa”, which means to do no harm. In forcing them to serve, it is not allowing them to fulfill the beliefs of their religions or that they have. Furthermore, there are many anti-war activists that think it is wrong to even be in war, let alone have to fight in war. There is nothing wrong with wanting to serve, it is very honorable and a tradition for many people, but it should be the choice of the individual to serve.
@Elysia P. I like this comment. I agree with you that people shouldn't be forced to serve in their military against their will. They're are so many reasons Americans can't, or just don't want to serve. Religions like Hinduism and Buddhism believe in pacifism, avoiding war and conflicts. Hindus and Buddhists combined only make up about 2 percent of the American population but we still must respect their beliefs. Like you said, forcing these people to violate their religions is unconstitutional and illegal in America.