As somebody who just retired after 20+ years from what I consider a successful and rewarding military career, I deeply resent what Rich is trying to imply regarding the purpose of the military as a welfare agency.
Befoer you "resent" what "Rich is trying to imply", you need to make sure you have correctly deduced what "Rich is trying to imply". What Rich was trying to imply is that we treat the men and women that serve this country EXACTLY like the people in the mythical "job program" were to be treated...and they deserve more.
That perception stinks on ice, period, and it makes me wonder if he's ever been in the military.
Got me there - Dad retired as a CW3, two tours in 'Nam , gunship pilot. Me, I was never IN the Army...but I've worked for it all my life, off and on. My current job is at Fort Sill, helping train officers, warrants, NCOs and battle staffs using computer based simulations such as JCATS, FireSim, JADOCS, JANUS, etc. I also set up the threat (Red) offenses and defenses, and frequently control them in simulation runs. Close enough?
Likewise, I'm rather grateful the military entrance requirements, even those I saw all those years ago at the MEPS station, would weed out those bottom-feeders that Rich would send to enlist.
I'M NOT TRYING TO ENLIST THEM - I just want our young soldiers, sailors, and airmen off of food stamps and WIC, and not prey to "payday" loan outfits, note car lots, and pawn shops - apparently I somehow miscommunicated that...
Even if they made it past the recruiters and MEPS stations, I'd pity their souls after the first few minutes of a DI's nurturing care.
I guess you haven't heard about "stress cards", or the rumored waiver of the HS/GED diploma requirement to enlist...