Quote:
Originally Posted by The Reaper
If you had skills and were nearing your first re-enlistment, looking ahead at what is coming, why on Earth would you re-up?
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Sir,
I believe that the skills that a typical Soldier acquires are in great demand in the outside world. Showing up early/on time, working hard, dealing with stress, staying calm under pressure, being obedient, showing up with the required things to do the job, making sure you're ready the night before. They don't teach that in college.
Some bad reasons for a Soldier to stay in is the percieved sense of security, having CSMs and LTCs tell you that "you and your family will starve to death" if you get out. Some Soldiers also like the routine that the Army gives, it helps prevent them from thinking about the future, a very scary prospect to my generation.
Personal belief is what keeps me wearing the uniform.
What concerns me is why anyone thinks that the government will honor its word and give any veteran retirement after 20 or more years of service?
Just because it has signed paperwork and contracts saying it will?
All a Congress and POTUS would need to do is call an "Emergency Fiscal Cliff Austerity Armageddon" and say they aren't paying it.
My fiscal plan for life does not account for any sort of payment from the gov't after I hang up the uniform...If there is anything, it'll be gravy, but not something I can choose to rely upon.