Memorial Day 2024: Facts, Meaning & Traditions | HISTORY

WILL THE YOUNGER GENERATION RESPOND TO AN ATTACK TO THE U.S.A.

The younger generation's response to an attack on the United States would likely be similar to previous generations, with many stepping up to serve and defend the country. While some may question their willingness based on a lack of historical knowledge[2], the sources suggest that when faced with a direct threat, American youth have consistently answered the call:

During World War II, over 10 million young Americans entered military service through the draft or as volunteers[5]. Despite the hardships of barracks life and rigorous training, they adapted to the demands of military service. Even teenagers as young as 17 joined the Home Guard to help defend against potential invasion[4].

The kamikaze pilots of Japan, some mere teenagers like 16-year-old Yasuo Tanaka, demonstrated an incredible willingness to sacrifice for their country, writing apologetic last letters to their mothers before embarking on suicide missions[3]. While an extreme example, it shows the potential for idealistic youth to embrace duty when their nation is under attack.

Historically, American youth have been quick to volunteer or comply with the draft when the country faces an existential threat[5]. Their inexperience is overcome by training, and a sense of patriotism and responsibility emerges. While some may initially question the premise of a war, as evidenced by the Pearl Harbor example[2], the nation has consistently united behind a righteous cause when directly attacked[1][5].

So while knowledge of past conflicts may be lacking in the current generation[2], the weight of historical precedent suggests they would likely respond with the same courage, resilience, and willingness to serve if faced with an attack on the homeland[1][3][4][5].

Citations:

[1] https://www.heritage.org/homeland-security/commentary/if-d-day-were-today-would-millennials-step-the-challenge
[2] https://www.fosters.com/story/lifestyle/2014/12/07/pearl-harbor-remembered-millennials-bomb/ [login to see] 7/
[3] https://www.cnn.com/travel/japan-kamikaze-pilots-museums-intl-hnk/index.html
[4] https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/growing-up-in-the-second-world-war
[5] https://www.nationalww2museum.org/students-teachers/student-resources/research-starters/america-goes-war-take-closer-look