On September 19, the United States military sent its latest group of troops to Afghanistan. These 3,000 soldiers are just the latest to be deployed there. Since 2001, 1,695 troops have died in the war in Afghanistan. With no plans in the works to lower the amount of troops overseas, the men and women going into the military have a very real chance of seeing combat.
The American people can never forget the sacrifices of the military, but the reason citizens sign up for the military can often be ignored. While leaving their homes is part of the job, many will often overlook why young adults choose to make this sacrifice.
Sergeant Randy Miller, an army recruiter in Jackson, has an idea of why our youngest adults would join the military.
“I think it’s just the result of those kids maturing and gaining a growing sense of responsibility,” Miller said. “I personally talk to between 10 to 15 kids a week who are seriously looking to get into the military. I joined the Army because I was looking for discipline, and I think many of the kids I talk to want that in their lives.”
According to Miller, another trend in high school graduates looking to get into the military is the desire to get an education. Senior Alfredo Morales is looking into joining the Marine Corps in order to utilize the educational advantages that the military offers. While Morales is unsure of exactly what he wants to do when he gets out of the military, his next step is going to college to figure that out.
“I’ll be able to travel the world,” Morales said.“I want to be a Marine because it’s more of a challenge. It shows everybody that you are the best of the best, and that you have succeeded in some way.”

Robotics teacher Robert Richards worked as an Army recruiter for eight years. Richards thinks it is important that when high school graduates look into joining the military, they should know what they are getting into and consider if they are really interested in the responsibility that comes with that decision.
“I joined the Army because I wanted to get out of Stockbridge and see the world. All I would say to the students is, if you really want to join, join,” Richards said. “But, make sure you do research and make an informed decision.”
Junior Chloe Miner is set on joining the Air Force. Miner plans on attending the United States Air Force Academy, which has a 12.3% acceptance rate.
“ What I really like about the Academy is that they pay for your college and upon graduating, you get to have a job right away in the field of your choice if you did well enough for it. The Academy is a 9-10 year commitment, but it will be worth it. “

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ROBERT RICHARDS