There is quite a lot in it for those that serve in the military. Trump never had to consider that

[brewens]

option. Another thing he doesn't understand. An income and benefits they may not have much of a chance at where some troops come from. Quite a few no doubt would rather have been doing something easier and safer if they had the chance. They aren't suckers to want to earn a living in this country.

[SheltieLover]

1. Quite a lot he doesn't understand!

Service, altruism, dignity, integrity...

You are correct, though. Many had no other real options.

I hope Joe will be a modern day FDR, with job training & WPA-type programs for clean energy & infrastructure!

[Midnight Writer]

2. During Viet Nam, lots of kids who couldn't afford college enlisted partially for GI Bill benefits.

My best buddy went, got training in his preferred field in the Navy, and then went on to college for his degree.

While his brothers and sisters (who were also very bright) got stuck in dead end low wage jobs, he went on to a prosperous career.

[qazplm135]

3. the military does two things

provide a path for those who want to serve, provide a path to the middle class for the poor and people of color.

The military led me to have the money to finish college, which led to law school, which led to a career as a military attorney and now a retirement/disability combo that pays me almost 90K before taxes and will allow me to do school teaching despite the low pay and give something back while still making pretty good money.

But if you ain't rich, you're worth nothing to him.

[Arkansas Granny]

4. I have family members and friends who have benefited from their military service.

Many young men and women see military service as a way out of poverty. Some use the GI bill to go to school, others use VA loans to buy homes. Most of them benefit from the discipline and teamwork they experience.