Weekly Written Analysis 1

Ever since the terrorist attack on America on September 11, 2001 there has been it seems a roller coaster of opinions and feelings about serving in the military. I remember soon after the attack how there were many people that seemed to have an overwhelming sense of pride and patriotism for the U.S and were displaying their feelings by posting and hanging American flags. Flags were being sold everywhere and people had them on their cars and hanging outside of their homes. Young men and women from all different backgrounds showed there patriotism by suddenly rushing to enlist into the military. Some because they wanted to fight back and some just felt has if they had to do something to support the effort. I had been enlisted in the Army for four years already when 9-11 happened and I was proud to serve and was happy to see other people stepping up and wanting to support the U.S by making such a big commitment to support and defend the Constitution of the United States.

As years have past and the war has continued I have noticed how the patriotism that was very evident right after 9-11 soon began to fade and the American people seemed to forget how hurt and scared they felt when we were attacked. I am not saying by any means that everyone should agree about the war or agree with President Bush, but I have noticed how just the since of pride and appreciation of the freedoms that we as an American people have seem to decline. Now that I am an Army recruiter and have had to talk and listen to hundreds of people’s opinions about the war while trying to find applicants to enlist, I have noticed how most of my applicants want to join just for the college money, or student loan repayment, or the bonus money. Rarely have I found someone that just want to join the Army because they want to serve their country and are proud to commit a few years of their life in appreciation of a lifetime of freedom and privilege. I think it is sad and disappointing that the United States has to buy its’ citizen’s loyalty.