The Perspective Of A Soldier

The class discussion regarding the use of video game centers in malls and the use of combat related video games to recruit for the military really got me thinking... Although we had many members in class who serve or have served (in which I thank you), I wanted to talk one on one with someone who is stationed and serving right now.  I spoke to a marine. He asked me to keep his name unpublished. However, a little non-threatening back round can be shared.  Most importantly, he joined the marines because he saw it as a family.  Family is one of the greatest aspects of life to him.  He thrives on creating families with all kinds of people such as his past football team, within his church, and among his friends.  He holds true to the idea of "you've got my back, I've got yours".  
When I talked to him on the phone, I asked him if he had heard of the strategy we had discussed in class. He said he had heard of it a few times but it is not discussed much.  I proceeded to ask if he knew anyone throughout his training, basic, and current position that was involved in the armed forces because of a recruitment such as this.  He responded no.  I pressed on, asking bluntly what his opinion was on this tactic being used to prepare prospective members of the armed forces.  He began to explain that while he did not think it was the most efficient way to train or prepare someone for what they are up against, he agrees that is an efficient initial way to recruit those who are interested because if the interest and passion is there then they have nothing to lose by seeking out a career in it.  However, it is not a game. It is war, and there are no extra lives.  He proceeded to share that in training, they use computers in learning to shoot and that it is a very helpful way to prepare them for combat.  The stress still exists, as we identified in class, that there is no actual emotional tie during a video game.  The weakness, fear, sadness, among other emotions, will not be felt while playing the game as they would be in the actual training or on a mission.  
After sharing his standings I felt that the idea of this recruiting method is just another advance in our world.  Sure, it is not going to be exactly like it is out in the real warfare but it is closer that books or manuals.  Training is the most efficient way, I get that. But the advancements in our technology make the trial and error method more readily available while also creating knowledge of the use of these types of platforms.  This idea may be controversial and it may not have immense support or understanding but it is for a fact an advancement.