The poignant question posed by System of a Down, “Why Do They Always Send The Poor?” resonates deeply with the PBS documentary “Where Soldiers Come From.” This film follows a group of Michigan high school friends who join the National Guard seeking economic stability, only to find themselves grappling with the devastating realities of war and its aftermath. Their story sheds light on a systemic issue: the disproportionate burden of military service borne by those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. This article explores the complex relationship between poverty, military enlistment, and the perpetuation of war.
Economic Disparity and Military Enlistment
The documentary highlights the economic desperation that drives many young people to enlist. A $20,000 signing bonus and the promise of college tuition become powerful incentives in communities lacking opportunities. For these individuals, the military offers a viable path to financial security and education, a stark contrast to limited job prospects and insurmountable college costs. This echoes the experiences of past generations, where economic hardship often dictated military service. As recounted by the author, his grandfather and father, both from modest backgrounds, served in WWII and Vietnam respectively, highlighting a historical pattern of economic disparity influencing military involvement.
The Cycle of Poverty and War
The allure of military service as an escape from poverty often masks the long-term consequences. The film portrays the struggles of returning veterans battling PTSD, substance abuse, and broken relationships. These challenges further perpetuate the cycle of poverty and limit opportunities for upward mobility. The author’s personal experience underscores this point, as his father remains silent about his time in Vietnam, a testament to the enduring scars of war. Furthermore, the author’s volunteer work at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School reveals the contemporary relevance of this issue. Witnessing a student enlist in the National Guard due to financial constraints demonstrates how economic pressures continue to push young people toward military service.
Breaking the Cycle: Access to Education and Opportunity
Addressing this systemic injustice requires tackling the root causes of economic inequality. Expanding access to affordable education and creating viable job opportunities are crucial steps in breaking the cycle of poverty and reducing reliance on military enlistment as a means of economic advancement. The author suggests that institutions, particularly Christian colleges, have a responsibility to dismantle structural barriers and provide educational resources to those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Collaborative efforts and innovative solutions are needed to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their economic circumstances, have the opportunity to pursue a future free from the burdens of war.
Conclusion: Rethinking the True Cost of War
The documentary “Where Soldiers Come From” serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war, particularly for those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The film and the author’s personal reflections highlight the need for a societal shift in addressing economic inequality and ensuring that military service is a choice, not a necessity born out of desperation. By investing in education, job creation, and support systems for veterans, we can begin to dismantle the systemic forces that perpetuate the cycle of poverty and war, ultimately answering the question, “Why do they always send the poor?” with meaningful action.
