New book takes a look at how military service shapes the course of people’s lives

Over the past century, a large percentage of young Americans have served their country by joining the military.  Today, the more than 1.6 million uniformed military personnel and 22 million veterans currently living and working around the world make up a sizeable and influential demographic group. Military service remains a meaningful pathway to adulthood for the many who join the military during their formative young adult years.  However, little research has previously been done to find out how the lives of military personnel, veterans, and their loved ones differ from those with no direct ties to the military.  The recently published book, Life Course Perspectives on Military Service, edited by Professors Janet M. Wilmoth and Andrew S. London of Syracuse University’s Maxwell School, helps fill this gap in knowledge. Read more. 01/31/13