Who Signs Up to Fight? Makeup of U.S. Recruits Shows Glaring Disparity

I guess it was a lot simpler in the bad old days of the draft,where if you came from wealth and privilege,attended college,(divinity school was big back then) or just crossed into Canada (and were later pardoned ) then you were sent to fight,that was our “Glaring Disparity”,personally I had no bitch since enlisted,but did feel bad for my Brothers who had no choice.

Like so many of you, over 3 family generations 9 of 11 who served, did so during armed conflict. We all felt that serving is a responsibility, obligation, duty (role set) to protect others.
Rich

Not really a sea change from the days of the Vietnam-era draft, based on what history I've read, and my father's stories (WWII era). Many rural and urban "poor" sought enlistment for reasons both patriotic and to escape grinding poverty. GI Bill benefits of WWII, Korean War and since gave opportunity to become educated past high school, learn a trade or related (transferable) skills, pursue other jobs, in new places. We are not going to ever see "equity" in who decides to enlist. There will be a significant majority of citizens who will not share the sacrifices, who may never meet an AD service member or vet...unless we go out of our way to introduce ourselves....as a female vet (20+ years retired) I do go to the elementary schools my grandkids attend on their Veterans' Day celebration and many other times, and I let the youngsters know that I and my husband both served our nation. I stand up at events that recognize vets... sometimes it starts a conversation with those seated around you. It isn't for everyone--i actively kept my kids away from recruiters because they went through a hellion stage I would never wish on any NCO....just saying. I don't see most of my nieces or nephews choosing to serve; the one who has is a great kid, in the Reserves, both for patriotic and personal reasons. I don't resent their choices. I do imagine one or more of my grandchildren might have what it takes...either way, they will have my support. What can we, as a society do? That's the more difficult question.