I think chances are higher of them coming right, than returning “combat trained” thugs. chances are a little self pride and a little recognition for what a work ethic can do, and they might just get out. At least they’ll get away. for some, it might be their first view of another life. a little cash, a little self respect, could be a good thing for them.
I really have a hard time seeing them going back and gunning down rival gangs with “Fallujah tactics” - personally.
As long as they don’t put a number of gang members in the same unit, I think you’re right. Gangs are a way of proving your manhood, but in the military you can learn another, better way.
I had a PhD student who was the warlord of a Hispanic gang in the South Bronx before he became principal of a high school in the South Bronx and then went back to get his PhD.
His earlier career qualified him well to educate tough kids.
I read one article 2 years ago that highlighted a Marine sargeant who had gang ties with a local L.A. Crip affiliate, and his subordinate was a Mexican gang leader as well.
Together, they fought in the Al Anbar province when it was still lawless, and they used their gang “experience/tactics” to subdue the insurgents. Eventually, both of them got bronze stars and even though there was a blood feud between their gangs back in L.A, they were able to co-exist.
But then again, you could compare this situation to ex- Air Force pilots from WW2 who eventually formed Hells Angels when they were discharged.