Youths should join the military

To the Editor:

I am writing this letter in response to the letters written discouraging young men and women from joining the military.

My brother recently joined the Marine Corps and he is still in boot camp. I was present for most of his dealings with his recruiter. He was never promised anything. He was given many different scenarios. He was told there was a very good chance he would be in Iraq. He was told that in some circumstances, recruits were offered bonuses.

He was told that when he signed up for the Marine Corps it was eight years, four active duty years and four inactive duty years. That was also explained to him. Even after four years of active duty, you can still be called back to active duty for four more years.

My brother also chose a field of work that required five years active duty. This was never kept from him. His recruiter was always up front and honest with him and my family.

When anyone joins the military, they sign a contract. Like any other legally binding contract, you should read it before you sign it. And, make sure you can hold up your end of the contract.

Please don't discourage young men and women from joining the military.

Support them and their choice because without them, who would be defending this country?

KC Hall