From The Past: September 22, 2006

Andrew is dying to go into the National Guard. Two of his friends (these kids are still in high school) have enlisted. He sees them enlisting, so he thinks it’s a good idea and sounds like fun. In Andrew’s words, “They get to go play with guns this weekend.”

Both sets of parents had to sign for their sons because they aren’t 18 yet. However, we won’t sign the papers. Andrew told me last night he has people who want to talk to me. Yes, I’m sure they do. Those recruiters are like a car salesman. They try to push and push and push. They keep asking questions so they can give you the answer they think will turn you around. There’s nothing I hate worse than someone trying to push me or convince me to do what they want. My son’s life is not worth the recruiter getting a bonus check. No thanks.

A few nights ago, a recruiter called and asked to speak with Kevin. (Kevin’s name popped up on a list because he is attending college.) He asked Kevin if he was interested in enlisting. Kevin laughed and told him he is 37 years old with a family – no way. It aggravates me that the college freely gives out lists like this.

Back to Andrew …

In my opinion, he can do what he wants when he turns 18. Until then, I am not signing over his death certificate. We are in a time of war, so I hope he thinks very carefully. He will be 18 at the end of March.

It’s kind of frightening to me that he will be able to sign over his life like that. Those recruiters make so many promises and they make it look so good that it’s hard for him to see past all that even though we have tried to convince him otherwise.

No one we have EVER talked to, no matter what branch they went into, got what the recruiter told them they would. Not one! Furthermore, if they can make him such good offers now, they should be able to make them in six months’ time.

In the end, he will do what he wants despite our warnings. He is as hard headed as his mama.