Actor Darren Wang (王大陸) spent NT$1 million (US$30,539) to hire an agent to help him fake an illness to evade compulsory military service. Ironically, during an interview in 2015, Wang boldly stated: “I’m young, what’s the point in hiding from military service? When the time comes, I’ll go serve.”
Based on his recent actions, that was clearly a false sentiment.
At the start, I was also reluctant to serve. I thought military service was a waste of time that could be spent working to earn money. However, after I completed my service, I found that my time spent serving in the military became one of my life’s most precious memories.
Although many enlist unwillingly, men love to talk about their experiences in the military, as it is one aspect of life that could only truly be understood through experience. Former US general Douglas MacArthur once said that he would not re-enlist, even if someone gave him a million dollars — but he would also not accept a million dollars in exchange for his memories of serving in the military. This aptly describes the hardships of military service, but it is memories of hardship that become the unforgettable nourishment of our lifetimes.
Anyone who has served in the military knows that it is during their service that a man’s character is the most tested, honed and revealed. It is also the best training to develop physical fitness and a fighting spirit. In a culture of never admitting defeat, military service is seen as a test of becoming a man — many people are eager to share how they overcame difficult moments and became stronger and more mature to showcase their personal growth.
Taiwan’s compulsory military service system is directly related to national security and societal fairness. As public figures, artists and entertainers should set a positive example for others by performing their civic duties.
Dino Wei is an engineer.
Translated by Kyra Gustavsen
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