I joined the state military (not federal) at age 54. I work with National Guard soldiers and on other state-specific projects. It’s not a “fighting army” in our state, although that’s legally an option if needed. It’s more of a first responder force, doing search and rescue, emergency traffic control, emergency shelter security, various emergency management functions, etc.
My reasons are several, but the core of it is to give back in a way others can’t or won’t, and to contribute in a way I couldn’t when I was younger. A benefit is that I like the structure and discipline – it helps me do everything else in my life in a better way. Basic training was hard, but fun every minute, and it has definitely improved my work and home life. I’m a better husband and father for it.
One thing I love is that my CO’s encourage religious activity. When there’s downtime during a Sunday drill, and if there’s a mass scheduled, I love to attend because usually there are only three to five people there including the priest. That’s because there’s so much active work being done during that time. It’s a very personal experience with God, though, and I cherish the rare times I get to participate.
The military is just fun, if you don’t mind occasional long days and hard work. You get a great deal of satisfaction from it, even if all you do is train with never an opportunity to deploy.
By the way, our service falls under the state law, alongside the Army and Air National Guard. I think 26 states have State Guards or State Defense Forces. We’re a true state militia – no pay, we supply our own equipment. We all have day jobs, and pay out of pocket to participate. At the same time, we’re subject to the Code of Military Justice (i.e., courts martial, etc.) just as any Guardsman.
You wondered about the experience. My uncle was buried this weekend. He fought in the infantry in Korea, was injured in basic training, and after the war he re-upped in special forces in the National Guard. My Dad was in Korea after the war, and all he would tell me about it was how much fun he had and the he “could never touch his toes.” (Apparently that was an exercise they did.) My brother loved the Coast Guard, and another flew for the Navy. That’s just the immediate family. I drill one weekend a month with some side work during the month.
There’s a chance you’ll be killed as a soldier. There’s a much greater chance you’ll never see action, and you’ll develop extraordinary talents and skills you can use to better yourself and others.
Specifically to your question: no soldier loathes his service, he or she is quite proud of it; but some might not enjoy the experience.
Good luck!
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