U.S. Air Force representatives visited MVHS on Nov. 17, sparking a mostly positive student reaction




At lunch on Nov. 17, recruitment officers from the U.S. Air Force came to MVHS to inform students about the benefits of joining the American military. Garbed in military dress, the officers carried forms and pamphlets for those who might be interested and attracted considerable attention.

For most students, it was not a source of controversy.

In recent weeks, the influence of the military representatives has come to light for many students. With personnel from the U.S. Marine Corps, Air Force, Army, and Navy all having connections to FUHSD schools, the U.S. military has provoked questions about ethics. However, recruitment at schools is legal in all 50 states.

“I’ve encountered opposition from some parents,” U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Kelvin McMillian said. “But my job is [only] to educate young men and women about the Marines and everything it has to offer, like college education and leadership experience.”

McMillian is the USMC representative for Cupertino High School and Lynbrook High School in addition to MVHS. He keeps in contact with the students who express interest in joining the USMC in the future and organizes conditioning drills. McMillian also has an office in Cupertino, where he fields calls and helps people submit paperwork.

In response to the military’s presence on campus, many students have been supportive.

“Lots of other jobs recruit people, so I don’t think that [military recruitment] is any different,” freshman Connie Guan said.

Still, opposition from parents creates a touchy topic in military recruitment, especially when considering contact through social networking sites. Many parents across the nation, reacting to the poorly-received wars in the Middle East, have cited age as a main reason military recruitment is not appropriate. However, many students disagree and believe age is not relevant in the controversy.

“I think that at this age, the students should be able to make their own decisions,” junior Taylor Shen said. “It is not a bad idea to promote the military.”

McMillian also uses social networking and email to connect with students beyond school. He believes that in this day and age, such contact is absolutely necessary to inform the youth. His goal is not to enlist students but to make sure students understand that not all career paths go through secondary education.

“I use a Facebook account to contact students who may be interested in joining,” McMilian said. “I’m trying to reach those individuals who will benefit from the [USMC] and many who I do contact become interested in what I have to say.”

The controversy over the military will almost certainly remain, as it has existed since the beginning of the military itself. However, although parents oppose, students remain receptive to recruiters.