Something I really wish people in leftist spaces would remember is that military service is one of the few viable paths of upward mobility in the US, especially if you’re in a situation where paying for college is impossible.
I’m not saying that’s a good thing, but it is absolutely a reality.
There's a lot less benefit to being a cop.
They sell college benefits hard when they're recruiting, but also everyone knows you get the good healthcare by joining up or marrying someone who enlisted
