What other "career" doesn't let you leave as you wish? When times are tough. When things aren't fair. When things break legal/moral boundaries. I didn't enlist during any major conflicts, yet I do what our elected officials deem is neccessary to keep our quality of life. As for not joining until you are needed...does that mean the US should have zero military forces, until we are attacked? It's called Defense. Thank a vet, not for what they have done, but what you are unwilling to!