Is it the good patriotism - not often.
Is the pay good - must be.
Are there people who are willing to become canon fodder to get enough money to have a better life for their family - probably. ???

$20K sign up bonus is a great incentive indeed.
Army's $20K signing bonus helping boost recruitment goals
The Army has offered bonuses before -- some ranging from about $10,000 to $15,000 -- but $20,000 is the largest amount Smith said he's seen in his 26 years with the military. Half the bonus is paid out on completion of basic training and training in individual specialties, some of which can take at least a year, Feltner said. The remainder is to be doled out over the course of active-duty enlistment, which must be for at least two years, although some specialties require longer enlistments.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/couriernews/news/539233,3_1_EL02_A5RECRUITING_S1.article

When I joined the Navy in the 80s the bonuses went as high as $30,000. They were all reduced when they started cutting the military. It is about time they brought them back, and when adjusted for inflation they probably still aren't as high as they were at their peak.

Is it the good patriotism - not often.
Is the pay good - must be.
Are there people who are willing to become canon fodder to get enough money to have a better life for their family - probably. ???

You've GOT to be kidding, right?

Do you have any clue as to how little military people are paid?

In case you don't here is the link to the military pay scale right from the government. Starting as an E-1 (enlisted grade 1) you make abput $8.13 per hour. I know burger joints that pay more than that. So stop with the 'good pay' line. Most military qualify for food stamps, but are too proud to collect them.

Military Pay scale - 2007