by Marion Garcia

Created on: September 12, 2009   Last Updated: September 13, 2009

Why join the military?

There are several good reasons to join the military. The need for a military to protect the country in the event of war or invasion is the number one reason for joining the military. The opportunity to get a college degree at a lower cost is another good reason for enlisting. An opportunity to travel and see the world is also a good reason for enlisting. The military can give guidance to a young person that has not yet set a goal in their life.

As parents, we are reluctant to see our young men enlist in any type of military. If there is a war going on, we are even more reluctant. No one wants to put our children in harms way, but everyone knows that they feel much better with some type of military to protect the country. This can't happen if we don't let our young people look to the military as a choice for their careers.

It is only during the war time that the military is a scary place to be. During peacetime, the military offers a chance for the young person to become an adult. The training that they learn can be beneficial in their lifetime once they return to civilian life. The leadership and teamwork skills that are learned will follow them throughout their life.

The opportunity to attend college while they are in the service is an added benefit. If a young person comes from an impoverished family and has no way to afford a higher education, the military is a good alternative. Attending a military Academy such as West Point or the Naval Academy can help you get your college degree and help attain a higher level of rank. These colleges are basically free, and the only requirement is that you agree to serve in the military for so many years after graduation.

Traveling to other countries can cost a good amount of money. Being in the military can give a young person an opportunity to see other parts of the world. Everyone likes to travel. The military offers discounts to military personnel to travel.

Living in another country is a great experience. Most military personnel are stationed in at least one foreign country during their active duty. The opportunity of discovering the different cultures is a memorable experience. Most people only dream of visiting other countries. The military personnel get the opportunity to actually live in other cultures and experience first hand how other people and societies live. A family living in the military is just like any normal family.

The pay is not exactly the greatest, but it is sufficient.

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