So why did you join up, anyway?

Wanderer78

[Mod] Splitting off from the FFL thread which was getting a bit silly, but I don't think we as a forum have ever actually answered this question. So why not have a thread about it? It may be illuminating[/mod]

Always find these threads odd, why would anyone want to serve in any active army? My cousin (English) wanted to serve in his own army a few years ago, reason, to travel the world. after chatting to me, he realised, I can travel the world by myself while reducing the risk of being killed, much to the relief of his parents. Some organisations and individuals glorify war and serving in an active army, it's not what it's cracked up to be folks, no human should experience it, I'd imagine you d experience disturbing stuff while serving in any war zone. Think very carefully about this op, get as much information as possible before deciding, talk to as many as possible, to get a more rounded view, I've spoken to ex army(English), war isn't fun! Best of luck

the_syco

Wanderer78 wrote: »

Always find these threads odd, why would anyone want to serve in any active army?

Personally, I'd call it "a calling". Went from cubs, to air scouts, to the ventures, and then tried to join the FCA.

Didn't get in to the FCA due to my hearing (back in '99), so didn't bother trying to apply to the Defense Forces. My parents were probably relieved at me not getting into the FCA, as they knew that I would apply to the DF if I got into the FCA (they'd prefer if I picked another career choice, but they would support me anyhoos).

Manic Moran

Wanderer78 wrote: »

Always find these threads odd, why would anyone want to serve in any active army? My cousin (English) wanted to serve in his own army a few years ago, reason, to travel the world. after chatting to me, he realised, I can travel the world by myself while reducing the risk of being killed, much to the relief of his parents. Some organisations and individuals glorify war and serving in an active army, it's not what it's cracked up to be folks, no human should experience it, I'd imagine you d experience disturbing stuff while serving in any war zone. Think very carefully about this op, get as much information as possible before deciding, talk to as many as possible, to get a more rounded view, I've spoken to ex army(English), war isn't fun! Best of luck

I think you've hit the nail on your head when you use the word "Serve". It implies "for the benefit of others".

The military plays a part in the national interests of the country it belongs to. It's one of the four instruments of national power. As a result, to a large extent, there is a feeling of 'duty' or 'giving'. This is the same as you would find in anything from police to charities working with the homeless, we all give but we do so in a manner which tends to suit us better as individuals. If you wish to travel the world and not get shot at, that's fine. The military isn't for everyone. Personally, I travel the world without getting shot at, and I also travel to parts of the world where I do get shot at. So, I've been anywhere from an over-water bungalow in Bora Bora checking out the beautiful sunsets over the ocean through checking out the beautiful sunsets over the mountain regions of Afghanistan. Some places I don't get shot at (eg Mt Rushmore) the Army sends me anyway. So for sheer world exploration, I think I personally get a better deal.

Of course, normally, one joins the Navy to see the world, not the Army. So it's not that huge a motivator. Other motivations are family tradition, simple need of a paying job, a want of a structured lifestyle, the challenge, adrenaline... It's not always the same for every person.

So, in my case, why did I join? It was because I wanted to give back to the community I had moved to, and in a manner I felt I would personally enjoy. Fundamentally, I -like- running around in the woods with a rifle, or riding around in a tank. I enjoy being given responsibility and leading men (and women).

Why am I still in twenty years later? After all I haven't ridden a tank in 6 years. I haven't run around with a rifle off a range in 7. Well, the pension and money certainly help keep me around. But there is also a sense of pride in my position. I am in a position that a very minor portion of the population has been in. My uniform and rank indicate that I've toughed out challenges that many shy away from or fail in the attempt to meet, both physical and mental, and most importantly, it indicates that I am trusted. My commissioning certificate says that the President reposes special trust and confidence in my patriotism, valor, fidelity and abilities, and with that trust it has granted me unusual powers and responsibilities of command in order that I may best carry out national policy in the interests of the nation, on behalf of every person I see around me as I walk the streets. The day I hang up my boots and retire, I will no longer be charged with leadership and responsibility: I'm just going to be another person on the street that other people have taken responsibility to serve, be it, again, police, firefighter or caregivers, or the next generation of soldier who replaces me.

In such a case, syco's statement about a 'calling' is correct. You either get it, or you don't. If you don't, go forth and have a great life at whatever you do. Just accept that others find their satisfaction in other ways.

the_syco

Manic Moran wrote: »

After all I haven't ridden a tank in 6 years.