Many soldiers join the military with a sense of duty and pride, ready to serve their country and protect their fellow citizens. However, not all soldiers are able to fulfill their commitment and some choose to leave their military unit without permission. This is known as AWOL (Absent Without Leave) and it is a serious offense in the military. Unfortunately, it is a reality that many soldiers who go AWOL end up living abroad.
There are various reasons why soldiers go AWOL. Some may feel overwhelmed by the demands and challenges of military life, while others may struggle with mental health issues such as PTSD. Some may also feel disillusioned with their duties and the military as a whole. Whatever the reason may be, going AWOL is a serious decision that can have long-lasting consequences.
One of the consequences of going AWOL is the possibility of being stationed abroad. Soldiers who go AWOL may find themselves in a foreign country, far from their home and their unit. This can be a difficult and isolating experience, especially if they do not speak the local language or have any support system in place. They may also face legal consequences for their actions, depending on the laws of the country they are in.
Living abroad as an AWOL soldier can also have a significant impact on their mental health. The stress and guilt of leaving their unit and the fear of getting caught can take a toll on their well-being. They may also struggle with feelings of shame and regret, knowing that they have let down their fellow soldiers and their country.
Despite the challenges, many AWOL soldiers choose to stay abroad. Some may find work or start a new life in the country they are in, while others may simply prefer to avoid the consequences of going back to their unit. This can create a difficult situation for both the soldier and their family back home.
For the families of AWOL soldiers, the situation can be heartbreaking. They may feel a sense of betrayal and worry for their loved one’s safety and well-being. They may also face financial struggles if the soldier was the main provider for the family. In some cases, families may even lose contact with their loved one, not knowing where they are or if they are safe.
However, it is important to remember that not all AWOL soldiers are bad people. Many of them are struggling with personal issues and may need help and support. It is crucial for the military and society as a whole to address the underlying reasons why soldiers go AWOL and provide them with the necessary resources and support to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Furthermore, it is important to have a compassionate and understanding approach towards AWOL soldiers who are living abroad. Instead of demonizing them, we should try to understand their situation and offer them a way to return to their unit and fulfill their commitment. This could include providing them with legal assistance, counseling, and other resources to help them overcome their struggles.
In conclusion, it is a sad reality that many soldiers who go AWOL end up living abroad. It is a difficult and isolating experience for both the soldier and their families. However, it is important to address the underlying issues and provide support and resources to prevent it from happening. We should also have a compassionate approach towards AWOL soldiers and offer them a way to return to their unit and fulfill their commitment. After all, they are still our fellow citizens and deserve a chance to make things right.
