Is military service a higher calling?

To me it was, proud of my time in the service.

This is an old discussion thread, Capt Ross Nussbaum, but I thought I’d comment anyway as I think there’s another way to approach your question. Frankly, it’s a higher calling regardless of why an individual starts such a journey and perhaps continues the journey. It’s a higher calling because of the oath, whether it be the oath of enlistment or the oath of office. I took both. I can think of few professions that require such a complete commitment.
SSgt Terry P. Maj John Bell Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth SGT (Join to see) CSM Charles Hayden SGT Philip Roncari MSgt Stephen Council SSG Stephen Rogerson MSgt Robert "Rock" Aldi SMSgt Lawrence McCarter SGT Mark Anderson SP5 Jim Curry 1SG Steven Imerman CPT (Join to see) PO3 Bob McCord CWO3 Dennis M. PO2 Frederick Dunn Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen SGT (Join to see)

I think a good percentage join for some reason other than "duty." However, after the first obligated tour, I think one stays because of that "higher calling." Hell, I didn't do 20 for the money or fame!