Military service facts for kids
Many countries have special groups of people who protect them. These groups are usually called the military or armed forces. People who work in the military are called soldiers. They get special training to do their job.
In some countries, the military is not just made up of professional soldiers. Instead, the country asks its citizens to spend some time serving in the military. This time is known as military service. It usually happens after young people finish their first education, when they are teenagers or young adults. Most of the time, only men are required to do this service. Women often do not have to, but they can choose to volunteer. A few countries ask all young people, both boys and girls, to serve in the military for a certain period.
Sometimes, people do not want to carry weapons or be part of the military. For these people, there is often an option called civil service. This means they can serve their country in a different way, like helping in hospitals or with social work, instead of joining the military.
Contents
What is Military Service?
Military service is when a country asks its citizens to join the armed forces for a period of time. This is often called conscription or the draft. The main goal is to make sure the country has enough trained people to defend itself if needed.
Why Do Countries Have Military Service?
Countries have military service for several reasons:
- Defense: To protect the country from attacks by other countries or groups.
- National Security: To keep the country safe and stable.
- Citizenship Duty: Some believe it is a duty for citizens to help protect their nation.
- Training: It helps train a large number of people in case of an emergency.
Who Serves?
In most places, military service is mainly for young men. They usually start serving when they are around 18 to 20 years old. The length of service can be different in each country, but it often lasts for a few months to a couple of years.
While women are not usually required to serve, many countries allow them to volunteer for military service. In some countries, both men and women must serve.
Civil Service: An Alternative
For people who do not want to join the military, many countries offer civil service as an alternative.
What is Civil Service?
Civil service means working for the public good in non-military roles. People in civil service might:
- Help in hospitals or nursing homes.
- Work with charities or social services.
- Assist with environmental projects.
- Support emergency services like fire departments.
This option allows people to fulfill their duty to their country without being involved in military combat. It is often chosen by those who have strong beliefs against violence or carrying weapons.
Why Choose Civil Service?
People choose civil service for different reasons:
- Personal Beliefs: They may have moral or religious reasons for not wanting to be in the military.
- Different Skills: They might feel their skills are better suited for helping the community in other ways.
- Safety: It offers a way to serve without the risks associated with military combat.
Images for kids
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Military service in Spain (1945)
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Timetable of military duties, Switzerland
See also
In Spanish: Servicio militar para niños
