[Migraine]

I know this is anecdotal, but my current experience and what I've seen as a Mormon my entire life disproves your theory.

Thanks for responding. In any event, my inclination was based on the high number of boys who go on missions, thus, perhaps, removing them from circulation at the stage in life when it's normal to make the decision to go military. It certainly was not based on any perception of lack of patriotism.

Of course, any statistics generated during WW II, Korea, Vietnam, or any period when there was a generalized draft, would not be meaningful in this context.

[Spiff]

Thanks for responding. In any event, my inclination was based on the high number of boys who go on missions, thus, perhaps, removing them from circulation at the stage in life when it's normal to make the decision to go military. It certainly was not based on any perception of lack of patriotism.

All three of my Bishop's sons who have enlisted since 9/11 served 2 year mission prior to enlistment. The 2 year mission actually better prepares a young man for military service as he learns individual responsibility, discipline, maturity, and often learns a foreign language and culture if he serves a foreign mission.

[Frumious Bandersnatch]

My feeling is rather anecdotal too, but I believe that there is a rather high percentage of Mormons who have served their country (and continue to do so). The church encourages service and considers the military to be an honorable occupation.

[Myrddin]

One of the kids in my ward accepted an appointment to West Point. Two years into his education (with a 4.0 GPA), he took a 2 year pause for his mission. He has since returned and graduated from West Point.