[timm22]

Second, if one wants to base changing the law to 18 because one might be called upon to defend the country in uniform, then make the rule state that those that actually do defend the country in uniform legally drink, not just those who reach the age. Make it on actual merit, not potential merit.

I think potential merit is important. Enlisting in the military is a life-changing, possibly life-ending decision. If we say someone is old enough to make the decision to enlist, then they are certainly old enough to make the decision to buy and drink a beer.

[Eagle Eye]

The point isn't the age it is the maturity to do the right thing at that age.

Potential to enlist isn't the same as enlisting.

Considering defending the country isn't the same as doing it.

Thinking about service to country isn't the same as serving it.

Let those who actually chose to defend the country enjoy an additional privilege.