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lookin4 wrote

Unfortunately, no. This might be because we are distant-relatives. Their partner and the majority of the family however are also not a big fan of this, but they seem to deal with it more relaxed than I do... but perhaps this is my distorted perception since I don't see them regularly.

There are hopefully more conflicts and worries related to it than imagined, which leads someday to their quitting the military. Or the call of duty transforms, when becoming a parent. Their mind and civil education offers better options than to be at war for the state corporations.

Tip: Try to identify their motivation for joining. It could be the uniform, the companionship, the desire for authority or leadership, the thrill, adventure, reputation or whatnot. Even if you don't get the idea of some or all of the above, explain them it can be found in civil jobs, too. Make a pitch for firefighters, paramedics, emergency management.

Good luck! If you want, keep us up-to-date. At least I am very curious.

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edmund_the_destroyer wrote (edited )

My understanding is that a good portion of the people in the military are there for economic reasons. And while cops in most of the US don't make big bucks, they still earn quite a bit more than most of the working class.

A roof over your head, three meals, medical care, and a very low salary but no living expenses is incredibly attractive when you're struggling to make ends meet with $8.42 an hour or flat out can't find any other job, period.

And if you can last a few decades with either institution, you get a stellar retirement package relative to most other people, too.

I understand why people join. (Edit: I'm not saying I agree or support it. Just that I understand.)

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