Yes it is wrong. If you go into the military and they pay for your PhD, what do you think they'll have you doing? You won't be bombing innocent Iraqis, you'll be developing the bombs that are dropped on them. Not literally, but you get the idea - someone with your level of knowledge won't be a grunt, you'll probably be one of the myriad desk jockeys that use your technical knowledge to keep the imperialist machine spinning. And what is it about joining the military that appeals to you? Like I said, more than likely, you won't be on the front lines, heroically running in to battle. Which means that while you won't kill anyone, you'll still be facilitating others to kill. But it also means that this idealized notion in your head of developing super soldier skills also won't be happening. If you join the military, it will be boring and terrible - and you'll have helped the imperialist war machine advance. In my opinion, the few military jobs that are justifiable morally are medical. Yes, as a doctor, nurse, or medic, you're helping to advance the war machine, but you're also saving lives and reducing suffering. I suppose being a chaplain is fine too. If you do want a medical career, the army can be a good option, since they will pay for med school if you want to be a doctor and if you want to be a nurse, emt, or paramedic, you'll get good experience. But for any other career path, I think the military is indefensible. What is it about being in the military that is appealing to you? find out what aspects appeal to you and achieve that in civilian life. If you want the glory and honor of the military, there is none in the military. If you want to protect the people of the world, becoming an activist for peace will do far more benefit.