Children deployed to fight in Iraq

[NNN0LHI]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uklatest/story/0,,-6392566,00.html


Fifteen children have been deployed to fight in Iraq since June 2003, it has been disclosed.

The figure, given by defence minister Adam Ingram, was described as "shocking" by the Liberal Democrats.

Mr Ingram said the "vast majority" were deployed within a week of their 18th birthdays or were removed from theatre less than a week after arriving.

All were 17 years old, while as many as four were girls.

[magellan]

1. What's the law in the US about it?

Is there one? My husband and I both joined the military at 17, he in the UK, me here. I don't understand why they allow enlistment at 17 if you can't fight till you're 18.

But then I never understood why the gov't is willing to send 18 year olds to their deaths, and yet they're too young to be served a goddamn drink.

[Nikia]

2. It is my understanding that under 18 cannot be deployed to war zones

I am not positive on that, but there have been a couple cases that I heard about where they wouldn't let the minor(s) in the unit go to the war zone.
There is training and non war zone tasks that 17 year military personnel can do. The military isn't just about fighting wars.