[FlashDrive (Poppy)]

I say ' yes ' ... it didn't hurt me .... I joined at 17years ( straight from high school)

Was taught to be disciplined in all facets of living .... being tidy / being responsible / learning to do as your told by your superiors / washing your own clothes / ironing your Uniform / spit polish your boots / how to handle a weapon ( SLR Rifle ) .... and general respect for all others.

In fact it made me a much better person and I felt better about myself.

And I was paid ' adult wages ' to do it ..... RAAF.

I do not advocate sending young men to War ..... this is purely for Leadership Training / Respect for others / Life Skills and for good self esteem.

2 years is long enough I'd say .....and when their time is done .... back into ' civilian life ' with a sense of contributing to themselves and a desire to enter the work force.

By the Way .... I chose to enter the Military for a career path .... I stayed and I came away with a recognized trade .

I saw the ' benefits ' of this service for me and stayed there ..... but those who want to re enter ' civilian ' life after 2 years can do so,hopefully with a sense of self respect and a sense of achievement.

Isn't that what young people want ( the fair dink'em ones anyway ) .... to have a sense of ' belonging ' in Society and opportunities for their future.

This is about giving them the ' tools ' to go on in life and to help them overcome difficulties they encounter.

Col....