Three years ago the average age for a soldier active in the United States army was twenty two. Two years ago it was twenty one and last year it was just twenty years old (US Army). The men and women who are fighting overseas for our country are getting progressively younger leaving the current Millennial generation as the targeted enlisters for America's wars. While Iraq and Afghanistan may seem like wars of the past, youth voters will also be soldiers in the wars of the future- the ground first, guns representing their generation at the front line.. That could now include Syria.
The President's proponents for striking Syria remain lacking with considerable amounts of opposition even after his address to garner the public support. He attempted to assure many that only after every option for negotiation was explored he would only strike Syria if it was strategically necessary for our national security. "Surging" disapproval still persevered through the compelling speech in 18-29 year olds whose anti-military action sentiment grew from 49% to 64% in a one week period (Pew).
Massive protests against military action still continue as the nation questions whether or not a "pin prick" strike will lead to immediate relief for Syrian citizens, higher tensions from Russia, or perhaps a new war in the Middle East. Whatever the end result, the opinion will be shown in the 2016 elections. The fighting of tomorrow's conflicts will be done by the youth voters of today, many at the front lines with their guns and boots on the ground first representing their generation's struggles.
U.S. Army Statistic: http://www.usarec.army.mil/support/faqs.htm#age
