As the class of 2009 graduates, every senior has his or her own path to follow. Senior Arian Mohammadi plans to join the army of his native country, Iran.
“I want to fight for my country,” said Mohammadi.
Mohammadi, 18, plans to leave for training either at the end of this summer or next, with his parents’ permission. He would join as a conscript and receive limited military training. He will serve for 18 months in the Islamic Republic Army of Iran or Artesh (Persanword for “army”).
Although Mohammadi is eager and ready to leave, some of Mohammadi’s family and friends don’t support his decision. They are worried about him leaving and fear for his safety.
“They don’t want me to die,” said Mohammadi.
Since sophomore year, Mohammadi has known that after graduation he would join the military.
“I feel it’s not just about fighting for my country, but fighting for my family,” he said.
Family is a key motive for Mohammadi’s decision in joining the army. If anything were to happen to his aunt who lives in Iran, Mohammadi would be there to fight for what he “feels is right.”
The Iranian Military consists of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army, Islamic Republic of Iran Navy, Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force and the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defense.
“It’s different from here; they have the air force but it’s nothing special,” said Mohammadi.
The Islamic Republic of Iran Army is estimated to have about 220,000 conscripts, 430,000 professionals and 300,000 reservists. All together all together the armed forces have a total of 950,000 personnel.
Circumstances are currently tense in Iran because of controversy and the soldiers killed in on going war, but with June 12 presidential elections, the Iranian people are hopeful for candidates and their overall future.
