Mandatory National Service Importance

At the point when I consider penance, honor, reliability, and grit, I think about the people who shield the United States of America. While I served five years in the United States Navy, I acquired the information and experience that has now empowered me to be fruitful in my schooling as well as my life all in all. I emphatically support the suggestion that each resident in the United States ought to be needed to serve one selection in the Armed Forces when one arrives at the age of 18.

This policy would not only benefit the nation’s military branches but also provide substantial economic, educational, and ethical advantages to those who serve.

Firstly, implementing mandatory military service would ensure that the country maintains a robust reserve force capable of responding swiftly and effectively to any threat to national security. With citizens required to join the military when the need arises, the public would naturally become more vigilant and invested in governmental decisions regarding national security. The knowledge that their lives could be at stake would encourage citizens to develop a deeper understanding of the risks facing their nation and foster a greater sense of civic responsibility and engagement.

This approach would also eliminate exemptions from military service, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of social or economic status, contribute equally in times of war or national crisis. This universal requirement would dismantle the notion of a "rich man’s war, poor man’s fight," replacing it with a collective responsibility that transcends socioeconomic boundaries. The individuals who serve would benefit from stable financial support, including a consistent paycheck and comprehensive health insurance for themselves and their dependents, without the burden of monthly premiums or copays. This financial stability would extend to their families, as the military provides housing allowances to support service members with dependents. Additionally, the military offers relief programs to assist families during challenging times, ensuring that service members can focus on their duties without financial distractions.

Furthermore, military service opens doors to educational opportunities. Every individual who serves for at least two years qualifies for 100% paid tuition at any accredited institution for up to three years, equivalent to a four-year college degree after military separation. This benefit includes an advance payment for textbook fees, alleviating the financial stress of academic pursuits. For many, the prospect of financial stability while attending college is a significant factor, and the government recognizes this by providing veterans with a housing stipend to focus more on academics and less on financial survival. As a full-time student benefiting from these provisions, I am free from concerns about tuition and textbook costs, unlike many peers who lack these advantages.

Military training imparts more than just technical skills; it fosters personal growth and development. Service members acquire valuable attributes like initiative, responsibility, teamwork, diversity awareness, stress management, and global consciousness, which enhance their performance in civilian careers. Moreover, the military instills discipline and healthy living habits, along with self-defense skills. These experiences provide young adults with a comprehensive education that extends beyond what parents can offer at home. If all citizens were required to serve, it would allow them to learn and train together, creating a shared experience that fosters mutual respect and appreciation for the sacrifices and responsibilities of military life.

Opponents of mandatory military service argue that it places young people’s lives in jeopardy. The risks associated with military service, including the potential for harm in combat or training, are significant concerns. Additionally, the quality of military service could be compromised if individuals are conscripted without the necessary experience, leading to higher casualty rates among inexperienced draftees. Some contend that the military is not suited for everyone, and mandatory service could be challenging for those who are not naturally inclined toward military life.

However, these concerns can be mitigated through stringent enlistment criteria and comprehensive support systems. Individuals with medical conditions or mental health issues that could impede their ability to perform military duties would be exempt from service. For those who develop such issues after enlistment, the military provides resources and encouragement to seek help, ensuring that service members can fulfill their roles to the best of their abilities. While every career entails risks, the structured environment and support systems within the military help mitigate these challenges.

It is important to recognize that the military encompasses far more than combat roles. There are diverse career paths within the armed forces, including administrative, engineering, medical, and technological fields, among others. As Owen Shaw, a Navy veteran of eight years, notes, "There are only a handful of jobs in the military where you actually hold a gun, but most civilians see more of the negative parts of the military than the good parts." Experiencing military service firsthand reveals its full scope, offering a deeper understanding of its multifaceted nature.

In conclusion, while the proposal of mandatory military service may initially seem radical and undemocratic, it addresses the need to restore the average American's sense of civic duty and national pride. The decision to send troops to war should be made with a full understanding of its consequences, and firsthand experience in the military provides invaluable insight into these implications. Transforming the perception of military service from a "rich man’s war, poor man’s fight" to a collective responsibility would not only strengthen the nation but also empower individuals to build resilience and character. The benefits of mandatory service, both for the country and its citizens, far outweigh the potential drawbacks, making it a compelling proposition for fostering a stronger, more united society.

Did you like this example?

785

41