...and last in percentage of veterans in the total population I was shocked to find out. I think that may have to do with the younger average age though.
They wuz ALL young once!
I believe it is due to large numbers of Utahns serving Missions for the mormon church . They don't seem to want to join up after that . A lot of Mormons who didn't go on missions joined the service , but it seemed few do both . I liked the Army fine and I would rather do that for all 4 years in Viet Nam , than to ride around on a bike , trying to talk to people who don't want to be talked to , about the most personal matters , getting doors slammed in my face . I guess it takes a powerful faith .
and last in percentage of veterans in the total population I was shocked to find out. I think that may have to do with the younger average age though.
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It has to do with the LDS teaching that service to the Church is more important than service to country. LDS men are encouraged to go on an 2 year mission (age 19-21) rather than join the military. Some do join up after their mission but it is fairly rare. Most of the LDS in the military either were not “worthy” to serve a mission or converted after they joined.