On Dec. 20, 2019, the US raised the federal minimum wage of the sale of tobacco to 21. The federal minimum wage to buy alcohol in the US is also 21. In multiple states in the US, the recreational use of marijuana has also been approved for those 21 and over. I find it very hard to believe that someone who can’t make an adult decision to smoke or drink is able to risk their life for their country. When someone turns 18 they still don’t truly know what they want to do with their life. Making the decision to join the army should not be taken lightly. The age should be raised to 21 giving kids a few more years to think about it. Joining the army is a life-altering decision. You are potentially risking your life, give them a couple more years to mature and make sure they understand the decision they are making. If the US believes that someone who can make a life-altering decision can’t drink or smoke. Something needs to be changed.