What does the military represent for the young men in the novel Buried Onions?

On the most basic level, the military represents survival for the youths in Buried Onions. The employment options are extremely limited in the Mexican American neighborhoods of Fresno; many young people do not finish high school and, of those who do, few can afford higher education. Engaging in illegal activities is commonplace, with the related, sometimes fatal violence. After Jesús is killed, Eddie fully realizes how difficult it will be to avoid the dangers around them. Joining the military also represents opportunity, as they can learn some skills. Eddie seems neither idealistic nor patriotic, but is more concerned with escaping his current dangerous, dead-end situation. Once he enlists, he learns he will initially be sent inland and recognizes the irony of joining the navy to see the desert.