As far as I can tell...everyone involved was asked if they wanted to volunteer for this mission...no on was ordered to obey.
Coming from a long line of military men (and women) I can say for sure that anyone who is on the Front Lines is there because they believe they have a job to do.
If that job requires their lives, then that is what they will give. Were I younger, I would be there, doing what I could.
Never underestimate the courage of the men and women who serve this country!