What do you think about exceptions to military service where service is required?

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 14:57:22 -0400

In countries that require military service, what should constitute a legitimate exception if anything?

http://espn.go.com/golf/story/_/id/13300930/sang-moon-bae-leaving-pga-tour-fulfill-military-service-native-south-korea

My personal thought is that other jobs that are in service to the country should be considered.

Sang-Moon Bae leaving PGA Tour to fulfill military service in native South Korea

Sang-Moon Bae must leave the PGA Tour to fulfill two years of mandatory military service in South Korea, a court in his native country ruled Wednesday.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Jul 22 at 2015 3:07 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 15:07:49 -0400

Whatever the requirement is, that is the requirement.

We harp on the "standard" being the standard. If military service is the standard, that's the standard. If it is military service OR public service, that's the standard.

Though I can agree with either of those, when a standard is established, we stick to it or we risk "lowering the bar." That is not to say we shouldn't revisit the standard occasionally. We should always evolve, however we should not make exceptions. Evolving is good, exceptions is playing favorites. Exceptions or favorites show there is not really a standard.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2015 3:12 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 15:12:29 -0400

I'm with you on this one Sir. I know in some countries there are other avenues of civil service that someone can take if they'd rather not serve in the military.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2015 3:15 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 15:15:23 -0400

That is the norm for South Koreans. The male celebrities are treated like rock stars when they report for and leave military duty.

Response by MAJ Jim Steven made Jul 22 at 2015 3:22 PM

MAJ Jim Steven — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 15:22:25 -0400

I agree with you. There are some opportunities where you are going to do more / reach a larger audience.
Funny, sometimes, we let a stellar soldier go to another unit or school as it is good for their professional development, but we will not alway let a Academy football player go pro....

Response by SPC George Rudenko made Jul 22 at 2015 3:56 PM

SPC George Rudenko — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 15:56:22 -0400

Elvis did his time. Israel has a similar system. But is this golfer better as an ambassador or as a conscript?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2015 4:39 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 16:39:14 -0400

Golf is a completely legitimate reason not to serve, right? Ok, maybe not. I do love golf but since I'm not that good, I guess i will just continue to serve.