rdhdstpchld
Member
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2018
- Messages
- 78
Ohhhh, I don't know; I agree but only to a degree. We volunteer knowing that it's a lifestyle most couldn't handle. Sometimes *we* can't handle it. I am not saying we're not compensated enough - we are. But the lifestyle we live is far from "normal" and brings along stressors that the avereage civilian would likely sue over. We (both members and families) give up things that people shake their heads at and can only imagine; time, relationships, friendships, homes, profits, spouses careers, good schooling, livable accomodations, etc. etc. and on and on. I'm not whining; I wouldn't know what to do in a "normal" civilian lifestyle (tho it's right around the corner, sooo.....) but it's definitely not *just* a good salary and benefits plan. Our allies and partners do not require the sacrifices and commitments we do simply because of their size and scope of responsibility. It's a good life for most - but the "free education" argument only goes so far after 25 years living the life. Again - I have loved it overall but it's def not without it's grumble-worthy issues.I understand the arguments for "not free' due to the commitment piece but would resist the urge to go to far with that. I think the answer goes hand in hand with what a senior leader I worked for says in response to "Thanks for your service" "It is a privilege to serve". The bottom line is we all volunteer for this and the education benefit is a significant contribution by the taxpayer along with a good salary and benefits plan upon commissioning. The American people more than adequately compensate us to do what we sign up to do (and most of us enjoy a lot). That isn't the case even with some of our closest allies and partners. So in response to is it free than I would say "Yes and then you are privileged to serve 4/5 or 8 years upon graduation leading Soldiers/Sailors/Airmen/Marines/Coast Guardsmen".