Anyone who wants to join the Army must complete the procedures established in each country.
To enroll is a verb that refers to registering or enrolling in an institution, organization, or other type of entity . The idea of enrolling, meanwhile, refers to adding someone's name to a list for a particular purpose .
Although the notion of enlisting can be used directly as a synonym for registering in many areas, it is usually used in relation to the Army or the merchant navy . To enlist, in this way, implies joining or becoming incorporated into something.
Enlisting in the Army
The Army is the set of armed forces of a country . Those citizens who have the vocation to serve their nation through military service can enlist and become part of this body of soldiers.
The process of joining the Army varies from state to state . Generally, the call is open to people who share the values of the armed forces and who are willing to take on the defense of the interests of their country.
The case of Argentina
In the Argentine Republic , those who wish to join the Army have the possibility of doing so by registering as a volunteer soldier . This procedure has been open since 1994 ; before, most men had to complete compulsory military service upon reaching 18 years of age .
Currently, any Argentine citizen (native or naturalized) who is between 18 and 24 years old , is single, has completed primary education, has no criminal record and is in good health and physical condition can enlist in the Army . By joining, he or she gains access to a salary and social and health coverage.
In the initial weeks as a member of the Army , the volunteer soldier receives basic training to function in the military world. Upon completing this training , the time comes for specific training depending on the place where he is assigned.
To work on a merchant ship, a contract of enlistment must be signed with the employer.
The Enrollment Book
It is interesting to mention, following the Argentine example, that in this South American country there was the so-called General Enrollment , established by law in 1911. At that time, all men had to enlist at the age of 18 .
With this procedure, each individual received a Registration Book . This document recorded their military performance and was used to vote: in fact, the electoral rolls were drawn up based on military service. When women obtained the right to vote in 1947 , the Civic Book was created.
Working on a merchant ship
A person can also sign up to perform a work activity on a merchant vessel . In this way, he or she becomes a crew member of the ship with a specific role.
Enrolment is regulated by labour laws . There are international conventions that set the limits and scope of enrolment contracts , where the responsibilities and obligations of the so-called seafarers (individuals who, with the exception of captains, apprentices, students and pilots, are contracted or employed on board) are defined.
The characteristics of the enrolment contract depend on each national legislation. It may have a predetermined duration (for a trip, for example ) or an indeterminate duration, depending on local laws.