Page 1172 - Wordsmith A Guide to College Writing

A World War II vet friend of mine died recently, and as I attended his 5
funeral and thought about his decision to be buried with full military

honors, I realized that for most people who served their country, even

many years later, that period remains the defining experience of their

lives. I also recalled that retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal had recently

penned a piece for Newsweek magazine proposing a period of

national service. Although McChrystal’s proposal is not new, it does
make the important point that with “inalienable rights” come

“inalienable responsibilities.”

Those who have worn a uniform know that military service is known 6

for imbuing slackers with a whole host of practical virtues, such as

self-discipline, reliability, leadership and a commitment to democracy.
It is also known that the acquisition of such virtues through military

means sometimes comes at a dreadful price.

McChrystal’s proposal, then, to include other service options— 7

Americorps, Peace Corps, Teach for America and others—would
make his suggestion more palatable to those opposed to military

service for various reasons. And there are many. Yet, we also know of

many former servicemen and women who credit their military training

with “making something” out of them. They thank their Uncle Sam for

teaching them the virtues which subsequently enabled them to
become successful citizens. I know that in my own case, several of my

experiences in the U.S. Army—particularly my time as the only ROTC

product in an Armored Cavalry Squadron otherwise staffed by West

Point graduates—helped me to overcome a paralytic shyness and

acquire sufficient social poise to lead a reasonably normal life.