"Such a thing," in this case being the military, encapsulates multiple industries including computer science and information technology. In the United States it could also mean the benefit of a full ride education along with highly technical military training. Complete health care, job security, global travel opportunities... Since you seem to be fixated on the notion that if there isn't and tangible reward than it is less smart than the choice you'd make.
Not to mention that such a choice most likely satisfies passion and honor within a person.
>Not to mention that such a choice most likely satisfies passion and honor within a person.
If you are saying that any person that satisfies his passions and honor is considered smart, or that a person that works in something that gives him satisfaction is considered smart, then you are just twisting the definition of smart.
Sure. But any other motive for doing such a thing is probably less smart too.