I dont think killing or dying for your country is a good idea. Maybe thats a JW influence that I will never get out of me. I try to look at it as objectively as I can. When your dead your dead. The politicians all seem corrupt history is twisted and written by the victors. If you have no opportunity, no direction then joining the mlliatary could be good if you survive. You get college money and gi loans for a house. I think we are a war like nation because the defense industry is a big business and its protected. When they build the various war technologies they want to try them out. I think a country the size of the USA needs a military and needs to protect itself. I'm kind of like George W. Bush your sons and daughters can go and sacrafice for this great country but not mine. I say that, but my son did serve in the Navy, I think he came out better for it.
P.S.........Of the 63 Guys who went over there, in my class (class of 67)...............no one died over there..........4 guys came back killed themselfs!
I graduated in 71 I had a high number and didnt have to deal with it. I am only aware of 2 people in my class that went in the military. I think thats because you had the draft in 67 and they went to the lottery by 71. Plus by 71 the war had a pretty bad vibe going among the younger people.