Member-only story
The Funnel of Military Recruitment
The escalating tensions between the U.S and Iran have ignited a lot of conversations, from genuine concerns about the unlikely return of a draft, to the fear that this conflict is only the precursor to WW III. Firmly, ensconced on the left side of this nation’s political divide, my conversations are frequently amicable if even not always pleasant.
Lately, however, across social media, I have noticed a questionable talking point among Leftists groups, concerning conversations about recruitment and military service. First, this is not a ‘circle the wagons now that we are potentially at war’ speech. If you are someone with a genuine anti-military or a conscientious objector, I both respect and appreciate that stance.
The questionable view, I am talking about, is mostly centered around this belief that everyone joining our military has come for glory, patriotism, and honor, but stay for the killing.
And I say, to those who are peddling and adopting this elitism, before carelessly passing judgement from that ivory tower, try examining the reality.
The poor and working class join the military.
Young men and women with limited options join.
A lot of kids from areas with nothing else to offer join.