There was a time up to the mid 90’s, when Compulsory Military Service still existed, that nobody wanted to enlist. No way, José!
Once a lad finished his stint, he would probably never wear military clothing again in his life. In fact, the only time you saw demobbed personnel keeping hold of their military gear was if they worked the land.
Times have changed dramatically; now even girls stroll around in imitation combat trousers… But that’s not the only change; the lack of jobs has pushed young people to seek employment in the armed forces – hardly surprising with 50% unemployment amongst school leavers and the young in general.
So, when the armed forces announced that they have 2,000 vacancies, there was a stampede – 40,000 youngsters have come forward. That’s 20 hopefuls for each slot. They don’t give a damn what the trade vacancy is – it’s an assured salary in turbulent times.
(News: Spain)