Was becoming an officer more prestigious during and before Vietnam era war?

Question

Since there were less opportunities for people to go to college etc.

Answer 1

no i think its more prestigious now, the standards are very high, have a high washout rate, and also back in the day battlefield commissions were not uncommon, and that is almost unheard of in modern warfare.

Answer 2

Yeah, that's why we called new Second Lieutenants "shave-tail" and "ninety day wonder".  

Answer 3

I got out of the Marines as an O3. actually,I think the standards are much higher now.

Answer 4

Was becoming an officer more prestigious during and before Vietnam era war?

Before, During and After --  

Being an Officer in the US Military (no matter the branch) is far better than many of the alternatives for college graduates..   I mean, like they could be a LOWLY politician or college professor!