The term 'career soldiers' refers to military personnel who have made the army their lifelong profession. The word 'career' is pronounced as /kəˈrɪə(r)/ with the first syllable sounding like "kuh" and the second syllable ending with a "rear" sound. On the other hand, 'soldiers' is pronounced as /ˈsəʊldʒə(r)z/ with the first syllable sounding like "sohl" and the second syllable ending with a "jers" sound. Together, the pronunciation of this word sounds like "kuh-rear sohl-jers."
Career soldiers are individuals who have chosen to make a profession out of serving in the military. They are typically enlisted troops or commissioned officers who make a long-term commitment to the armed forces, dedicating their lives to the service of their country. Unlike conscripts or those who serve for a limited time, career soldiers often embark on a military career with the intention of serving for an extended period, sometimes until retirement.
These individuals undergo rigorous training and undertake various military assignments throughout their careers. They develop expertise in their specific military occupational specialties, acquiring knowledge and skills in areas such as combat, intelligence, logistics, engineering, or administration. Career soldiers often advance through the ranks, taking on progressively higher levels of responsibility and leadership. They may also choose to pursue higher education and specialized training to enhance their professional development and expand their skillset.
Career soldiers possess a strong sense of duty, discipline, and loyalty to their country and the military organization they serve. They are well-versed in military protocols, regulations, and traditions, which guide their conduct and behavior. Due to their extensive experience, career soldiers provide operational continuity and stability within the military, as they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their roles. They form a vital backbone of any armed force, contributing significantly to its effectiveness, readiness, and overall mission success.
The word "career" originated from the Latin word "carrus", meaning "vehicle" or "chariot". In the late 16th century, the term "career" started being used to represent a racecourse, particularly in the phrase "career of words", referring to discussions or debates. Over time, this meaning expanded to denote a course of action or a course of life.
The term "career soldier", on the other hand, is a combination of "career" and "soldier". A soldier is someone who serves in an army or military force. The word "soldier" originated from the old French word "soudier" and the Latin word "solidus", both meaning "a paid soldier".