Would anyone encourage their kids to join the service?

I've always pointed out that it's there. Never pushed though. My wife and I both served, as did my parents, and grandparents.

The Marines did right by me. The Air Force did right by my parents. The Army did right by my brother and cousins. I would never dissuade him from it if that's what he wanted to do.

If they were interested in the military, I would certainly encourage and support them. However, I wouldn't push them into the military if they clearly were not interested. The only reason I'd nudge them towards the military would be if they were having difficulty finding their way in life. I wouldn't want them to flounder, and the military has a proven track record of helping people find their way in life (and I include myself in that group).

Inasmuch as my children are well beyond the age at which this question would be pertinent, I will take the liberty of rephrasing it slightly to apply to my grandchildren. My answer in that case is, not at this time.

I see many good and valid reasons for all to serve this once great nation, but not under this Commander-in-Chief. Who would want to see their children/grandchildren used and abused for some waffling political/diplomatic purpose and then be abandoned at a whim.

Ask me again when we regain our sanity if ever...