Reasons to Join the US Military: Education, Opportunity, and Responsibility
The United States military offers a myriad of reasons that draw individuals to its ranks. From educational benefits to career development and a sense of national responsibility, joining the military can be a life-changing decision with significant advantages. This article explores some of the most common reasons people choose to serve, and how the military can serve them.
Education Benefits
One of the most compelling reasons to join the U.S. military is the educational benefits it provides. The GI Bill is one such benefit, which allows service members to finance a college education after their military service. However, to receive these benefits, individuals must first commit to and complete their service. For example, the Navy offers additional educational benefits during service, such as courses taken on one's own schedule, financial assistance for books, and other course materials. These benefits come with conditions, such as prioritizing career development in the initial years of service.
Joining the military can also boost your educational credentials and skills. For instance, members can pursue various certifications and degrees through the Armed Forces Distance Learning Program, which offers distance-based courses for those looking to enhance their civilian careers. These educational pursuits not only increase job opportunities but also foster personal growth and development.
Career Development and Opportunities
The military provides a wide range of career paths and opportunities that can set service members on a trajectory for success. Many join to get regular meals, dental and health care, and retirement benefits. Additionally, financial assistance for college is often provided, making military service an attractive option for those with educational goals. Several branches offer opportunities to serve one's country, which can be a profound and fulfilling experience.
In my experience, joining the U.S. Army Reserve was not only financially rewarding but also career-enhancing. I received numerous opportunities to advance my career and enhance it at no cost to me, while also being compensated for my service. After 9/11, I had the opportunity to volunteer for combat deployments, which significantly upgraded my career prospects. The work was fulfilling, and the people I worked with remain some of my best mentors and lifelong friends.
A Sense of Responsibility and Service
For many, joining the military is an opportunity to express a love for their country and a sense of responsibility and service to fellow Americans. Some join to see the world, while others to protect it. No matter the reason, the experience of serving in the military can instill a sense of purpose and purposeful living that many carry with them long after their service ends.
My own experience was a turning point in my life. I felt that my life was going nowhere, but serving in the military provided a sense of direction and purpose. I joined to pursue military aviation but realized that the camaraderie and sense of duty I found in the military were much more attractive than a college life filled with risk-taking and irresponsible behavior. This decision ultimately led me to a 31-year career in the military, which was far more successful than I had imagined.
Joining the military can provide numerous benefits, from financial stability to meaningful work and personal growth. Whether it's the GI Bill, the opportunity to see the world, or the chance to make a significant contribution to society, the military offers a wide array of reasons to join. For those seeking a fulfilling and impactful career, the service is an excellent choice.