Some families have a tradition of military service. This tradition may go back several generations or may be a relatively new tradition, particularly in families who are relatively new to the United States and feel a need to express their appreciation to America for the opportunities and freedom this country offers them.
Enlisting in the military and embarking on a military career offers many benefits. For individuals who choose to spend much of their adult life serving their country, the Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines can provide exceptional financial and long term benefits that are difficult to find in the civilian world. For example, by enlisting in the military, an individual is provided with training, a salary, room and board and other benefits. Certainly, most other jobs are not going to provide these benefits. Plus, if you spend 20 years or more in your military career, you are entitled to a substantial pension.
Aside from these financial benefits, there is the pride of giving service to your country. Unlike many other countries, the United States does not require military service. This makes a military career all the more honorable, because you are putting your life on the line for your country. You are standing up for the values and concepts that the United States is founded on and you are walking the wall of honor that so many others cannot and will not walk. In short, you are being a hero ? to your country, to your community, to your family, and to yourself.
