did you know that there are slot machines in american military bases all over the world? you will not be finding a full blown casinos in there but these machines offer enough entertainment to their soldiers i believe.
The machines are coordinated by the Army Recreation Machine Program (ARMP) and are located on military bases across the world (the ARMP runs slot machines for the Army, Navy and Marines, while the Air Force has their own program). The exact number of slot machines is unclear. Officially, there are "1,889 slot machines in 79 locations abroad, including Korea, Japan and Germany," Neil Gumbs, the general manager of the ARMP's installation program, told Wired. However, the National Council on Problem Gambling claims there are over 3,100. the profit made using these machines is used by the military for their own programs so the money just goes back to them but it raises a few questions. first of all, how ethical it is to put slot machines in an environment where the tension, risk and stress are high? these soldiers undergo intense mental training trying to fight off traumatic experiences and loneliness away from their families and home. are these machines making them a lot more vulnerable to addiction?
Soldier are humans and they too deserves fun time and entertainment to boost their morale. That they are soldiers doesn't mean that they shouldn't enjoy the good things that life can offer. If those soldiers can gamble responsibly I don't see any problems with them gambling. Gambling is for everyone, and you can only get addicted if you allow yourself.
second, if a soldier is a gambling addict does this make him unfit to serve in the military anymore? we know that addiction no matter where can make someone illogical and make him do things that he would otherwise never do. i am aware that these machines can cure their boredom but is it the best hobby to provide for their brave soldiers? what do you think?
That a soldier is a gambling addict doesn't meke him unfit to serve in the military. If that is true the military wouldn't have allowed their personnel to gamble in the first place. Knowing fully well that they risk being addicted. It's just like saying that if a soldier is a drunkard that he shouldn't serve in the military. As long as the gambling addiction doesn't prevent the soldier to discharge their duties they can continue in their service.