Knowing what you know now about the military based on your experiences would you let your kids or grandkids join today's military?

My older daughter will be enrolling as a freshman in the AROTC program in the U. of Oregon. My second daughter is targeting the Air Force Academy. My son wants to be a Marine. Where did I go wrong? Let me take my tongue out of my cheek: I wholeheartedly view the military as one of a very few careers where one is promoted and offered opportunities based upon performance. I may not agree with the current direction, employment, and utilization of our armed forces. But, these are reasons to get out. There comes a time where the decision, just bluntly, isn't yours to make. Where I may disagree with my kids' decisions (for my own reasons), 100% support is the only hand I'll ever show 'em.

Great question, SGT Vince Albert Dickson

My youngest son is AD USMC LCPL. He decided on his own to enlist. I told him it's a good way to learn about himself and what he wants to do with his life, whether he decides to do 4 yrs or 20. I fully supported him and went to the recruiting office with him to help make sure he got what he wanted.

He's loving it so far and enjoying Okinawa.

If they want to join, then they have my full support. If they don't want to join, well assuming they can be productive citizens elsewhere, then they have my full support.