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keepontryi... keepontry...

In view of the new rules of engagement in Afghanistan, should I support my son's possible decision to join the military?

MSNBC is reporting that at least one father (a former Marine) is opposing the new rules of engagement, calling them suicidal. At the same time the Pentagon is reporting the highest enlistments since 1973 (the last big recession?). How would you advise your son(or daughter) as they consider joining up?

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33296515/
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33298332/ns/us_news-military/

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e6/Afghanistan_War_2001.jpg
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vicgoodwin...
vicgoodwin...
Marked as Best! October 14, 2009 05:22 AM
I personally would not recommend it simply because we are at war. This being said, if my child had the desire to join the military then I would totally respect that decision and make sure he knew I was here for him.

It is a scary time in the world and since we are actively in 2 wars, I know that he is more than likely to go into harms way. Even knowing this, if he is driven to protect this country fight for our rights and freedoms and he feels he is making a mature decision, then who am I to question him.

After all I did my best to instill in him a love of country and a strong patriotic home life.

So I will be proud of him and worry about him and pray for him and especially love the man he has become.
Source(s):
my feelings as a mother
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richaji
richaji
October 14, 2009 06:08 AM
anybody should join the military of their own country.
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ik3ri2
ik3ri2
October 14, 2009 06:48 AM
I defenetly would not support that, we R fighting a loosing battle, and young Americans are dying for nothing.
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anmagi
anmagi
October 14, 2009 06:52 AM
Of course. Be proud of him.
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jillbeth
jillbeth
October 14, 2009 12:29 PM
Personally, I would support my son's desire to join the military no matter what the situation. The desire to serve our country in any capacity is an admirable one, and should be encouraged. I know that as a mother you are concerned about his safety, but consider that he could also get hit by a bus walking across the street in his own home town. A successful life is about taking well-considered risks. My best friend's son has returned from two tours in Iraq, and I can see the effects of military training in him. He has become even more mature and responsible than he already was and we're all so thankful he has returned to us unharmed! Your son's military experience will be good life training for him.
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personal experience
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keepontryi...
keepontryi...
October 14, 2009 12:50 PM
I worry that he will come back like one of his High School friends, who changed from a happy go lucky 18 year old kid to a raging alcoholic with horrible nightmares and PTSD, or that he won't come home at all. The Marine father in the story says our lack of artillery and air support for the troops is tantamount to suicide. That's worrisome to me.
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jillbeth
jillbeth
October 15, 2009 03:35 PM
Well, unfortunately that does happen, and quite often. I believe that PSTD is taken more seriously than it once was and victims are receiving treatment, and I can certainly understand your fears that he won't come home at all. Mothers throughout the ages have known that fear. But ultimately, to keep our freedoms for future generattions we must be willing to take those risks. Please don't take it that I am pro-war, because I'm not, but sometimes it's a necessary evil.
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ssmacd
ssmacd
October 14, 2009 12:46 PM
Your support shouldn't depend on the decisions of the high command about military strategy-- and it also shouldn't be influenced by your approval or disapproval of a military lifestyle. Your son is an adult- and you should support him in whatever endeavor he chooses.

That said, if he asks for your advice, you should be open with your concerns about the risks and the dangers...and any worries you have about the appropriate of the decisions made by our leaders.
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dotchilath...
dotchilath...
October 14, 2009 09:49 PM
I would start by supporting him whether or not I agreed with him. But also pointing out that maybe he should read the newspapers from other countries (available online) and get the point of view of this war from the rest of the world. Let him see what everyone else is seeing and read their opinions.

I've already explained the idea that one countries terrorist is another countries freedom fighter. Beyond that, he is going to have to decide if this is something he is willing to die for. If it is, then I will back him all the way.
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