Me and the Military

[Eilonnwy]

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I am leaning towards joining the military when I leave highschool at sometime. I was reading about the military and the process of joining until I came across the oath of enlistment:

"I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God."

My problem is, I really do not want to say "so help me God". I feel that it is a disgrace to me as an atheist. I don't believe in God, nor any of the other ones, and I don't need help from any of them. And also, "that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same." The same what? What am I bearing that terrible word to? Faith... I don't like the sound of it.

Thinking that I will have to say this gives me that wierd feeling inside, a feeling of insecurity or something. ;\\ Sadness.

What shall/can I do?

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I'm developing this trend of jumping in late, but you all talk so damn much. Jerks.

Anyway, unfortunately and with complete disregard to the constitution, the military is very religious. Many atheists do serve, there are a few foxhole atheist organizations, but it's not easy. Long story short, if you plan to join the military, you're going to find yourself nodding and smiling your way through and probably attending some church services. While atheists don't face expulsion like gays, it's still an overly religious atmosphere. If you can deal with that, then more power too you. But if you're going to feel anxiety over the oath right from the start, you need to really think about what you're getting yourself into because that will be the least of your problems when you enter.

And I'm not trying to disparage our troops, my sister is in the naval reserve and for the most part, our military has good people. I'm just saying it's not the most friendly place for gays, atheists, and well women. Women have to really prepare themselves for it too, no matter how toughened they are and how equalizing the military tries to be.

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I am still waiting for (the Talk) concerning your beliefs. Let me know and I will listen. You know I support you in life as long as it doesn't clearly lead to self destruction.

And does atheism lead to self destruction?

I'm constantly thankful I have loving and caring parents who have accepted my atheism and understand that I will never believe. I don't try to convert them and they don't try to convert me.

I admire your willingness to talk with your son and I hope you can do so with an open mind.