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Military Risks
"Is it worth it to enter the military at 100% and come out at only 50%?"
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to this Commentary!
By Bergette Gardner
Have you ever wondered whether it was worth it to risk your life or health through serving in the military? Aside from helping your country, the pros of military service are earning honors and taking pride in your contribution to the US effort. But in such risky surroundings you could also face losing your life and not just from the enemy.
My brother was in the air force, and while he went in perfectly healthy, he didn't come out as well. During his time in Kuwait he received a vaccine for anthrax, thinking it would block him from the dangerous virus. But ironically, the very shot that doctors thought would protect my brother, I think actually caused him to develop lupus, a chronic illness attacks your immune system. My brother is the same loving person, but now, because his body can't fight off disease like a regular body can, he can't pursue his one dream of being a doctor. The conditions of his patients could actually kill him.
I'm not saying don't join the military, but my brother's situation really makes me wonder: is it worth it to enter the military at 100% and come out at only 50%? Think about it.
- Bergette Gardner is part of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Georgia.
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