Keep in mind military appropriations and wars are determined by politicians. The guy who signs up to carry a rifle can only hope for peace or, if combat comes, to be deployed intelligently and for a worthy cause. That's why Trump is important: he knows promoting peace is harder than waging war for a politician and has acted accordingly.
People enlist for many reasons, from altruistic defense of a nation to craven attempts to evade criticism after being elected.
If America was ever actually at threat, they won't stop you from signing up to defend it. Joining as a pawn to be used whenever is not an intelligent action.
I see your point for sure, but I would say that the decision to enlist can only be deemed intelligent versus competing alternatives. If you've got a prestigious university admission or high-paying job lined up, it's best not to. It you are looking to learn a trade, secure funding for college, or exit a dismal living situation, enlisting could potentially be one of your more intelligent actions. Only a small part of the military is involved in front-line combat, so the risks can be managed by choice of MOS.
It's a shame we've had so many war-mongering politicians that an enlistee cannot trust that their altruism would be used judiciously. Trump has been pretty good about this versus the McCain's and Duckworth's of the world who insist on keeping a substantial U.S. military presence in the middle east.
Whoa there, friend.
Keep in mind military appropriations and wars are determined by politicians. The guy who signs up to carry a rifle can only hope for peace or, if combat comes, to be deployed intelligently and for a worthy cause. That's why Trump is important: he knows promoting peace is harder than waging war for a politician and has acted accordingly.
People enlist for many reasons, from altruistic defense of a nation to craven attempts to evade criticism after being elected.
Nuance, friend.
If America was ever actually at threat, they won't stop you from signing up to defend it. Joining as a pawn to be used whenever is not an intelligent action.
I see your point for sure, but I would say that the decision to enlist can only be deemed intelligent versus competing alternatives. If you've got a prestigious university admission or high-paying job lined up, it's best not to. It you are looking to learn a trade, secure funding for college, or exit a dismal living situation, enlisting could potentially be one of your more intelligent actions. Only a small part of the military is involved in front-line combat, so the risks can be managed by choice of MOS.
It's a shame we've had so many war-mongering politicians that an enlistee cannot trust that their altruism would be used judiciously. Trump has been pretty good about this versus the McCain's and Duckworth's of the world who insist on keeping a substantial U.S. military presence in the middle east.
That is accurate, my point was more of "enlisting because you think you are protecting your country" is not intelligent.
i can agree with that.