Introduction to "Writer's Choice Selection"

During the Community Week of the course, we were asked to look broadly at the aspect of community. Community was viewed geographically, mindset, or even maybe similar interests. These communities may provide security and comfort such as acceptance into a new environment or have negative connotations and segregate through hazing or practical jokes. In this paper #2 we wrote about community assumptions from the generational view. Interviews with older or younger people were conducted and the basis of the paper reflected the similarities or challenges of the community you were exploring. I decided to write about the military personnel and explore the different reasons why people join the military. The essay, “A Soldiers’ Bond” in essence noted that regardless of the various reasons why people enter the military singularly; their bond as a whole community remains their entire life. It briefly explores the catalyst for this shift from, “me” to “us” through basic training, team work, and possibly even conflict. This sense of team or community may be sparked also by an overwhelming sense of patriotism which may be noted at the onset, but cemented once you have belonged one of the largest fraternities in existence.