Soldiers

Soldiers are members of a nation’s armed forces who serve on land and are trained for combat, security, and support operations. They work within organized units such as infantry, armor, artillery, engineers, signals, medical, and logistics corps. The term is typically used to distinguish land-based personnel from sailors in the navy and airmen in the air force.

Most countries require some form of training after enlistment, starting with basic training followed by specialty or career training. Ranks range from private or equivalent through noncommissioned officers to commissioned officers. Career progression depends on time in service, performance, and professional development. Some soldiers serve under conscription, while others join voluntarily; many nations also maintain reserve forces.

In wartime, soldiers conduct combat operations, occupy or secure areas, perform reconnaissance, protect supply lines, and assist with stabilization and security tasks. In peacetime, they may participate in peacekeeping missions, disaster relief, humanitarian aid, training with allies, and border security. They rely on equipment such as small arms, armored vehicles, artillery, aircraft support, and protective gear.

Soldiers are governed by military law and, in armed conflicts, by international humanitarian law, including the laws of armed conflict. Violations may be addressed through courts-martial or military disciplinary processes. They may face risks such as injury, long deployments, and mental health strain, with welfare, medical care, and post-service support provided by many administrations.

The concept of professional standing armies developed in the early modern period, with many nations creating permanent forces and, in some cases, conscription. Today, many armies include active and reserve units. Veterans are often eligible for pensions, education benefits, and memorial recognition.