re: Regret not joining the military

I graduated HS in May 2002. I had thought long and hard about going in. A guy that was a Sr when I was a freshman came to recruit for the Marines at my HS right after 9/11 and he pulled me aside and said “no matter what these other guys are going to say, we’re about to go over to the ME. I wouldn’t go in. They’re going to send fresh recruits straight over.”

I had honestly planned on enlisting but that got my attention and I didn’t end up doing it.

Had a conversation with a friend who enlisted as a result of 9/11. He understood that perspective.

I don’t necessarily regret not serving but I wouldn’t have begrudged being drafted at the time.

Most people I know that served are genuinely great people and I’m proud and grateful for their service.

I know a couple of shite heads that are also a disgrace to the uniform.