Originally Posted by Chase

When I was a barely 18-year-old soldier, we 'cruits could drink the 3.2 beer at specified places when off duty on post and at fire bases. It was not okay off post or within six hours of going on duty.

I don't know how fair it was then or is now, but young military personnel are usually under closer supervision than civilian kids the same age.

For those reasons -- tighter supervision, accountability, and being under orders with harsh consequences for disobeying -- it's my considered opinion that just because some are old enough to serve in the military does not mean all under 21 are old enough, seasoned enough, experienced enough, wise enough to drink alcohol without the restrictions I mentioned

Or vote for that matter. The ancient Greeks had the right idea, no one could vote until having served in the military and having reached the age of 33.