Treasure 
Being a soldier’s wife comes with a unique perspective on the motivations of those who serve in the military. Like the sacrifices, strength and resilience mirrored in the spouses back home, soldiers often exhibit a sense of duty that transcends material benefits. Recently, at a social gathering, I encountered a cynical comment that got me pondering. “Soldiers join the military only for the benefits,” voiced a person, aware that I am a soldier’s wife, implying that material gain—housing, food, family support—was the sole allure for enlistment. Considering her father’s role in law enforcement, her skepticism seemed to reflect personal bias rather than a universal truth.
So, as a soldier’s wife, I wondered what she was thinking…LOL
If it were when I was much younger, I would have asked her to “Shut Up” and quit being jealous of soldiers because she can’t SERVE as she’s living with a disability. However, I’m a big girl now. Therefore, I knew better and decided to wear the big girl’s pants and ignore her.
But why do many people automatically envision soldiers as people who joined the military to take advantage of various benefits such as bonuses, education, healthcare, housing, and job security?
Yes, there are benefits attached, but while these benefits are undoubtedly attractive in many countries, examining if this is the primary reason people join the military or if it’s simply a stereotype is still essential.
The Soldier’s Wife’s Perspective on Military Motivations
But let’s dive deeper. Does the promise of healthcare, bonuses, and job security drive our soldiers, or is it about something more profound, more dutiful? As the spouse of a service member, the idea that soldiers join the military mainly for the benefits is just a stereotype, and that’s how I SEE IT.
I say this because I have seen firsthand the pride and honor that underpins the choice to join the armed forces. For many, it is a lineage of service—a calling passed through generations. For others, it’s about patriotism, a commitment to protect and serve their nation. There are countless reasons individuals choose to join the military, with many having nothing to do with benefits. My soldier had a good job and life before he joined to serve. For people like him, joining the military is about serving a greater purpose, experiencing an adventure, and finding a sense of camaraderie and belonging that is hard to find elsewhere.
Benefits vs. Duty: Examining the Heart of Service
YES, it’s undeniable that the military offers many benefits in many countries, from education, healthcare, and housing to training, travel opportunities, and a guaranteed paycheck. However, soldiers deserve it, and these benefits can also come in handy in establishing a long-term career once the military service term is up.
Though I do not entirely rule out that some people join the military for the benefits alone, considering that these benefits can offer some level of financial security and stability. Still, it would be wrong to suggest that all or most service members do so primarily for the benefits. And I say this because I know that no amount of benefit could ever equate to stress and, most importantly, someone’s life!
Joining the military requires significant commitment and sacrifice beyond the potential benefits. The life of a soldier, whether on active duty or as a reserve, is a challenging one that demands rigorous training, discipline, and courage. And only some have what it takes to survive and thrive in such an environment.
In conclusion,
The idea that soldiers join the military for the benefits alone is a stereotype that has persisted over the years. While there are certainly benefits to joining the military, there are also many other factors that motivate people to serve. Stereotyping soldiers as only joining for the benefits oversimplifies the decision-making process and undermines the selflessness and commitment of those who serve their country. Ultimately, the reasons for joining the military are as diverse and complex as the individuals who make that choice.
Thank you for taking the time to read. I’m curious to know what your thoughts are.
Two key words, “commitment and sacrifice”. For people that think soldiers join the military for benefit , this is just a simple question. If the benefits are doubled can you be a soldier for a month
Great question!
Thank you for the WONDERFUL comment!!
Hmm, In some Country some parents wouldn’t even let their children join the force because the danger is even greater then the benefits! Every Solider should be respected for making the decision to serve and not criticised!
Thank you so much for the beautiful comment!!
Everyone all over the World knows the level of Sacrifice Soldiers offer by Joining the Force. More than any other Discipline, the Army is more Risky. But based on my Experience growing up in Nigeria, most people joined the force because of the Respect they get as a Soldier. Most people in my Country are scared of Soldiers which in turn command respect for them.
I will conclude by saying individual soldier can tell their personal reasons for Joining the Force. But in my own opinion, I belief most people joined for the Benefits.
Thank you so much for being here and taking the time to read, but I would like to ask you a question someone left on the comment,” If the benefits are doubled can you be a soldier and serve for a month?” and if not, Why?
I look forward to your response😊