wow, do I sense a little hostility? How can anyone at the age of 18 be completely sure what they want to do for the next 20 years? There are so many factors and variables involved in making that decision. As the spouse of a SA grad and 20+ years of service, I can offer that attitudes, desires and situations change sometimes as frequently as year to year.
In our own situation, our child has 3 service academy appointments and an ROTC scholarship to top choice school. Does this make her special, great, outstanding, exceptional or in any way better than all the other candidates and awardees? No, it makes her fortunate and "blessed" with options and tough decisions to make.
Our daughter did not decide on pursuing a military career option until summer of Junior year with SLS. Does that mean because she hasn't been "military minded" since the age of 4 that she shouldn't have the opportunity?
Every single person who makes the decision to serve their country, particularly in today's military environment, should be praised, regardless of the path that they choose.
It is my understanding that the ROTC scholarship, like the SA appointment is a contract, between two willing parties- seen as a fair exchange. The academic institution will provide a top quality education with military training in exchange for XXX numbers years of service. If these opportunities were limited to only those who are "planning" or "expecting" to or even "do serve"20 years upfront, then the military would have an awfully hard time filling the ranks.
And my daughter turned down "full ride" 4 yr ROTC scholarships to attend her top choice school on a 3 year scholarship. At this point, she does plan to serve her commitment and attend law school. Will she be a "lifer"? Have no idea, today those are her plans. Many, many things could intervene in the meantime.
I am a little offended at the poster's "lashing out" at other students/candidates who have received scholarships. There are so many people who are just hoping to get a scholarship to pay for college expenses, and serve their country as well, that the length of service is probably not foremost in their minds at this moment.
When the poster gets a little more life experience under his or her belt, then perhaps there might be a realization that "life happens" and "plans change". Until then, how about we focus on the more important thing of being sure to acknowledge all those who are willing to sacrifice and serve their country, no matter what path they may choose.