The minimum enlistment age for the United States was 18, but with parental permission, 17 year olds could enlist as well. In other countries, the minimum enlistment age varied, but was typically between 18 and 20. However, there were also a significant number of underage soldiers who served in World War II, particularly in the Soviet Union and China. In the United States, for example, it is estimated that as many as 250,000 underage soldiers served in the war. These soldiers were often motivated by a sense of patriotism or a desire to escape poverty or difficult living conditions. Some were also orphans or runaways who had no other options. Underage soldiers often faced additional challenges and risks during the war, including a higher likelihood of being killed or wounded in action, as well as the potential for psychological trauma and abuse.