Yes, there is a difference between the US Military and the popular impression of it. My ex has been actively discouraging our son from even thinking about a military scholarship/ROTC/etc. It wouldn't be so bad if it was "it is an honorable thing, but it scares me to think about you getting killed", but it isn't.

CNN.com - Soldiers help Iraqi family settle in North Dakota - May 22, 2005: "FARGO, North Dakota (AP) -- The Iraqi woman had been in hiding with her children since her husband was pulled from his truck and shot in front of one of his sons.

This weekend, they began a new life, brought to America with help from soldiers who befriended the slain man and were tormented by the idea that their relationship contributed to his death."