Everyone has their own idea about what it must be like to join the military. From boot camp nightmares to imagining what it might be like to be deployed in an area where there’s fighting, we all have an image in our mind of what a soldier’s life must be like.
Some people have false ideas before they join, and think they’re getting in to military jobs that are vastly different from the reality. If you’ve thought about joining the Air Force, Marines, National Guard, Navy or Army, you should feel encouraged to do so. But keep in mind what military service is not about.
1. Being in the military doesn’t give you license to dominate anyone. Yes, you’re privileged in many ways because you’re a soldier. But being a soldier doesn’t mean that you can boss others around.
2. If the idea of shooting people or going into battle and hurting people really appeals to you, you should realize that this isn’t the main focus of the military. It’s essentially a peacekeeping force and actual force is used only when necessary.
3. If you think of soldiers as big, tough and dumb, you’re wrong. Soldiers are highly-trained, intelligent workers.