College can be a huge goal for people to follow in the future, but some have other goals that require work in the Army.
The United States Armed Forces is not just a branch of the military that wages full out war, but one that offers opportunities in various fields that can help in the future, including science, physics, math and much more. The Army can help you with education and through life, as well.
After deployment, the Army can help with transitioning soldiers back into civilian life. The Army Career and Alumni Program center helps soldiers who want to prepare for the future and jobs by helping them create a resume based on their actions in the Army.
Another newly developed program for soldiers who want an education, called the U.S. Army Partnership for Youth Success (PAYS), helps soldiers find great jobs outside of the Army. Furthermore, the Post 9/11 GI Bill, for soldiers who fought after 9/11, gives veterans up to $1,000 a year for housing.
Junior Max Van Sprang says, “The Army is getting better and better at helping out their soldiers. People are not just going there for war, but to pursue an education and get the help the Army can give them.”
Healthcare is also provided to soldiers who are active or have retired. The HMO-type military healthcare plan called TRICARE provides medical and dental care at little or no cost. It is one of the largest healthcare networks in the world, and provides soldiers and their families appointments at any given time. For those who need healthcare, but are stationed overseas, there is a separate program.
Life insurance plays another big role in joining the Army. The Service Members’ Group Life Insurance provides low cost insurance for active soldiers and Army Reserve soldiers alike. The SGLI covers gives from $10,000 up to $400,000 in life insurance coverage.
All military personnel need to take a break and go on vacation. The Army focuses on vacation as a way for soldiers to stay fresh and enjoy their lives, providing 30 days of vacation, which is given annually. Holidays and weekends do not count as vacation days. Sick days are also provided.
Junior Rhonish Nair says, “The military has gotten way better from the years past, now that they really care about their soldiers and their personal lives.”
Last but not least, the Army has a lot of benefits for the people who retire, which can help pay for college, buy a home, or find a job. In this case, you would not have to worry about having a hard life when you step out of service, as the Army promises it will cover for you, no matter what.
Would you go to the Army or College? Why or why not?