Why I Want to Be an Officer in the US Army - Coursework Example

Many people may choose to pursue a career in law, medicine, education, and others because they feel that this is their calling and that they are well cut out to do so. However, the reality of the duties one needs to carry out in those professions may make them change their minds. The same thing can happen to an officer in the US army when they are not fully aware of what it takes to embrace this profession. Nonetheless, this scenario does not apply to me because I believe that I share the values, goals, and aspirations of the US Army.

The US Army is founded upon seven principles i.e. Personal Courage, Integrity, Honor, Selfless Service, Respect, Duty, and Loyalty. (US Army Manuals, 2008)Soldiers are taught about these values during training and they soon form part of their lives as they carry out their duties. Because I share the desire to acquire and live according to these values, then I believe that the US Army would be the right place for me.In the civilian world, many people are familiar with all the latter values; however, very few of them actually embrace them as part of their lives.

Most of them may consider these values as theoretical ones and rarely do they adhere to all of them. However, US Army officers are different in this regard. This is because the seven Army values are part of what they are.All US Army officers are expected to bear allegiance to the Army, the US constitution, and to their fellow soldiers. Loyalty as an army value is first and foremost directed to the country and its heritage. In theory, this may seem like a relatively easy thing to do. However, there is much that has to be considered in the execution of this value.

For instance, when soldiers are out in combat and they are heading towards a location that they may not be sure of, it is essential for these officers to demonstrate their loyalty to the Army by obeying the directions of their Captain. This should be the case regardless of objections that other soldiers may have against the Captain's opinion. (US Army, 2008)In order to be loyal, it is necessary for one to actually bear witness to the US Army ideals. This normally means that one has to be willing to devote oneself to the Army and to other persons in the Army.

This is usually displayed by a deep respect and support for one's leaders and colleagues. Every Army soldier can contribute towards the greater good of the institution by carrying out their part. There is only one thing that can prepare an individual to engage or participate in something that poses a serious risk of death. This is having great loyalty to one's country. Such officers usually pledge allegiance to their country and their constitution even when it might cause them great harm or even loss of their lives.

To me, there is nothing that can show one's loyalty to their country like sacrificing one's own life for it. While it may be a fact that not all US Army officers are at risk of loss of life, one cannot ignore the fact that it can happen. Consequently, one ought to be ready for this. A memorial for fallen soldiers in the war in Iraq; the latter illustration shows some of the prices that the US has to pay to defend their deals.It may be a scary thing for many people to work in the army because many are wary of its unpredictability.

In fact, this is the sole reason why so many people opt not to join the Army. However, the same situation does not apply to me. I have a deep respect and love for my country. My loyalty is so immense to the point that I can be willing to put up with so much just so that I can secure a better life for my generation. Many great leaders in history had to make sacrifices because if they had not chosen to do so, then our nation would not be as it is today. The ideals that hold America today must be protected at all costs and if it takes some injuries or life to prove this point, then so be it.