The Myth of Military Ownership: Understanding the True Nature of Service

When one joins the military, there's often a common misconception that they become 'owned' by the government, with little to no personal freedom. This notion, however, is far from accurate. In reality, while soldiers do forfeit some civilian freedoms, they gain a structure and sense of purpose that can be invaluable. Let's explore the complexities of this myth and understand the true nature of military service.

Understanding Control and Rights in the Military

Contrary to popular belief, the military does not legally 'own' its members. The freedom of individuals remains intact, as protected by the Constitution of the United States. However, military members are subject to stricter regulations and controls that civilians are not. These controls are in place to ensure the effective and efficient functioning of the military, which is a vast and complex organization with a wide range of responsibilities.

For example, if a service member isn't adhering to the rules or regulations set by their superior, they can seek help from various channels such as a Chaplain or a Sergeant Major. The Chaplain Inspector General (CIG) can also assist in resolving issues. This bureaucratic framework exists to support soldiers during difficult times, rather than to suppress their individuality.

The Necessity of Discipline in the Military

The military operates on a principle of strict discipline. This is necessary to ensure that the mission comes first, even in the most chaotic situations. Without this discipline, any operation could easily devolve into chaos, as the quote from Clint Eastwood subtly suggests. Just as in the famous film, without structure and order, missions can become 'a cluster fuck.'

While the demands of military life can be challenging, they are a necessary evil to maintain order. As one veteran puts it, 'in the service, you have to accept some rules you don’t like.' This acceptance is a choice and a challenge, but it's also a part of the overall nature of military service. Despite these constraints, soldiers often find a sense of purpose and community within the ranks.

The Oath and the Call of Duty

The military oath represents a binding commitment to serve and protect the nation. This commitment means adhering to the rules and regulations outlined by the branch of service. While the military can order individuals to their death, it cannot, and does not, act without legal justification. The military is governed by legal policies and procedures, which prevent arbitrary and unlawful actions.

Service members are held to a higher standard than civilians because they are directly responsible for ensuring the safety and security of not only their fellow soldiers but also the entire nation. In times of war, this commitment is even more pronounced, as the military may need to act in situations that are 'down and dirty' and 'dog eat dog.' However, this does not equate to being owned by the government; it means being accountable to a higher authority and a mission that transcends personal interests.

The Cost of War and the True Nature of Ownership

While the military oath and discipline serve as a structure for service members, the reality of war can be brutally personal. The true cost of military service is often borne by those who are directly involved. War is an unimaginable savagery, yet it can also reveal the best in humanity. It is a situation to be avoided at nearly all costs, but when the need arises, soldiers must be prepared to put aside personal interests for the greater good.

As we reflect on the nature of military service, it's important to remember that while soldiers may be seen as 'owned' by the military, this ownership is different from the involuntary ownership of slavery. It is a form of voluntary service where individuals are committed to a cause greater than themselves, and they accept the rules and responsibilities that come with it.

Conclusion

The myth of military ownership is a simplified view of a complex and vital institution. While the military does exert control over its members, it does so with the goal of ensuring effective service. The commitment and discipline required in the military are part of a noble tradition of protecting and serving one's country. Though the costs can be high, the purpose and sense of community within the ranks make these sacrifices worthwhile. For many, the true ownership is not of one's freedom, but of one's commitment to duty and country.

Key Takeaways:

The military does not legally 'own' its members. Discipline is necessary for the effective operation of the military. The true 'ownership' in military service is the commitment to duty and the greater good.