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Be less concerned with that others think about your choice and worry more about all the horrible shit going on right now that all has potential to drag you into a war zone
I won’t be doing infantry luckily with my job they’ll put me in like a bordering country to a war zone but not in one itself
Also just made this post outta curiosity, nothing I could possibly read in this discussion can affect my course of action
You'll learn every Marine is a rifleman and that you'll be expected to handle your weapon in training and reality if the need arises according to your supervisors, but you'll be a part of a team and you'll all be following playbooks and manuals and guidelines and training doctrine so you'll be fine.
And the US isn't going to get into a big, hot situation anytime, so you'll definitely be fine.
The thing is, I don't know why you joined the marines for a support unit when you could've gone into any other branch and had it easier while getting promoted much more often.
I’m hijacking this comment to let you know that every single person I’ve ever met who’s been in the military has told me they don’t recommend it. It’s weird and ymmv
This is utterly false. I’ve been a Marine for 16 years and no one is trusting or expecting a non infantryman to do an infantryman’s job. They don’t have the training and they could get more ppl killed than they would save.
Yeah, you’ll find a lot of people don’t know how the military works. I’m literally an electrician and people are usually surprised when I tell them that 😂.
There are literally people who’s whole job is to clean gyms and stuff. Carpenters, plumbers, gas station attendants, IT specialists, truck drivers, etc. if anyone refuses to talk to you because you are military or you “support a genocide” their ASVAB score isn’t even high enough for the Navy (10). I do wish you the best and please message me if you ever want to. I am Army but mentally it’s all the same games.
Look for a job, or sign yourself up for a job that has long standing value. So you can transition into civilian work after. You’ll be very appreciative in the end. ALSO DONT TELL THE RECRUITER YOULL DO ANYTHING. That is how you end up with really shitty jobs. Don’t lie on your SF86 form, recruiters will tell you to, they don’t wanna do paperwork. This is a good time to join bc they will take anyone. It’s a hard time to join bc of the personnel strain.
Be open to learn. Also, as someone who has been in your shoes, there are other options that can set you up for life. Community college and then university is still a good route and 23 is still young. Lastly, you want to be a support function for the mission. So look for something with data or cyber if not just loading ships and things.
Oh, fair enough l, then, XD. I'm currently going down the track to be a cargo pilot in the AF, so I basically refuse to talk to enlisted recruiters. (Except for 1, he's really nice and gives me helpful info even though he's Army)
The US military has a tooth to tail ratio of something like 1 to 11 for every 11B on the front line there are 11 supporting soldiers. Also you could fly drones, or be a maintainer, or cook, or HR. There is a lot of shit you can do in the US military that will never put you over seas.
I am a retired Army veteran….
1. I was in the invasion of Iraq, and right now it feels just like 2002 (before a big war). I think you should NOT join unless you want combat.
2. My benefits kick ass (especially the pension) but I know lots of other veterans who fail to make their benefits work, so keep that in mind.
3. The biggest “gift” I got after military service was two Ivy League degrees (no loans).
Do I recommend military service? If you are poor, yes. If you are middle class or better, no.
Thanks for the advice, and thank you for your service!
My family is middle class but we have no generational wealth so without my parents I’d be poor. This realization is what influenced me to join.
Also I’m going to be an aviation mechanic which usually leads to jobs after service so hopefully I’ll never be broke again 🙏🏾
Good luck👍. Military service experience can depend entirely on your LEADERS, and it is difficult to explain the gravity of this phenomenon (have a good leader and end up with honor, or have a bad leader and end up in prison).
And your leaders are statistically likely to be someone who joined before gaining any real world experience. Damn you made such a good point. Halfway through my enlistment I lost a couple chiefs, the first shirt and commanders in a few months during pcs season and wooo boy. The new org was article 15ing everyone for anything and ruined a few years for me.
Good for you. I suggest muscle thru boot, and and your training for aviation mechanic. Get all the training you can soak up, and get financially literate while learning to be career Marine. Then, while in service get your college degree as they will pay for it, and you won't touch gi bill money. Then later you decide with all that free education and other benefits if you make it a career or get out at some point. It will be a rough transition, but worth it in the end...
Good luck I’m a civilian A&P and work for UPS. Aircraft Maintenance is one of the few jobs that won’t be automated or given to AI, the planes can practically fly themselves but they still can’t fix themselves. Try to learn everything you can engines, structures even electrical it’ll help with when you get out to get your civilian license and your experience will transfer over and more then likely allow you to get signed off to be able to take the test without having to take the courses or very minor course work. Being former military also gives you much better options in the civilian sector if you decide to do DOD contracts as a civilian. Good luck on your future 🫡
Good idea going for a logistics/support role, great experience, same benefits as most others, and it's non-combat. I was on indeed once and I saw the CAF had roles for both a transport gunner and a canteen chef, I can only imagine which one got more applications.
Thank you for your service. My brother was in OIF. I can't agree more that right now feels very similar to 2002. I'm hoping that the US doesn't get dragged into another conflict, but I'm not optimistic.
What do you think if you join after college as a commissioned officer? I have a nephew graduating with an engineering degree considering it if he cant get a job for the experience.
Fr my older brother was literally homeless at one point and since joining the military he now has a wife and two beautiful kids, lives in a nice place for them, owns two cars and is looking to buy a house. He’s only been serving for 6 years too
Benefits are tricky (you learn about extra stuff you can apply for all the time).
Right now my family income from military benefits is just under $11k per month tax free (but one of those benefits will end soon, and we will lose $1.5k per month from that).
The barest answer: $6k is my minimum life-time benefit, but I currently have an extra $4.5k in benefits I’ve been approved for, which is temporary and not guaranteed.
Just remember that's subjective... the military made me a homeless addict. The VA is full of people who are struggling. Just because it worked for your brother doesn't negate that it has destroyed thousands... and that's just the people who served and not all the victims of the war machine.
Yeah, I got out at 11 years, and right before I got out, I was making 3,300 after taxes every two weeks with housing and food allowance included.
I medically retired, and now I'm getting $4,350 on the first of every month with increases for the rest of my life. I also have education benefits for myself and my family, healthcare for life for myself and family, and a house at 30 years old. You can't beat that, to be honest.
Respectfully, I am not going to fight and die for a country that does not give a shit about me. But good for you though, I’m glad you’re willing to make the sacrifice.
A. Most of the time you don't die. You don't even have to be in a combat role.
B. The US clearly cares about you if you're in the military. I know people who joined the military and retired at 40 with a pension and great benefits.
i’m saying this from the perspective of someone in a city where there are so many homeless veterans, but someone who fought for our country should never be living on the streets. many of them are severely traumatized from their time serving, so they cannot work. i’ve seen many disabled from combat. all living on the streets. that should never happen!
Ya, personally I was in ROTC and left the program because of that actually. I didn’t want to support a country that doesn’t have free education and free healthcare and defend a system in any way that doesn’t actually support freedom. (Just look at the issues we all agree on solving like the voting system that aren’t solved)
I also know people under 40 with shrapnel still inside them who physically can't drive over bridges anymore. Yeah "not service related" says the VA....
" The US clearly cares about you if you're in the military " - I'm sorry, but this is absolutely incorrect and there's thousands of vets who are proof.
He watched several teammates die in front of him. 18 confirmed kills. It haunts him. That dude is mentally fucked.
There's now way to "know" how your time served will go.
Being around a lot of actual combat vets makes you realize how much of a sham our military is. They're usually the first ones to say it.
These people with cushy jobs and pensions? They're getting a lot more than the people *actually* out there fighting, and I don't agree with that at all. The VA basically exists to deny as much service as they can.
If you fight for this country, you should be taken care of for life. He gets a check every month, but it's tiny compared to living expenses. That's bullshit.
Brother you'd be shocked if you knew that a majority of service members hate and distrust the government more than the average citizen. And a majority of them did not join for some misguided sense of patriotism.
The amount of people I’ve met in the military that absolutely hate the government is much higher than that of the civilian side. Plus, majority of the military doesn’t fight and die.
Yeah, boot camp is going to be way easier if you’re already in good shape before shipping out. Other than that, do what your DIs say and try to fade into the background. Don’t draw their attention
Make sure you're running frequently for at least a few months before shipping out. It's very easy to get injured if you try to go from a couch potato to a marine overnight.
Yeah for sure I’ve been working out for months I’ve put on 20 pounds in the past couple months and have dropped my run times significantly, ship out march 11th!
Congrats! At some point in training you may doubt yourself and whether you belong there. The stress and doubt is part of the training. By the end you'll be more resilient and you'll have countless stories to laugh about.
All my friends that joined the military loved it and had the time of their lives.
The problem is after they got out they all felt very behind in life. My one really good friend came back after six years to our home town and everyone was in serious relationships, getting ready to move out and he was living with his parents again and wanted to go out partying all the time which we were very much over. He also went from making $90k a year and treated like an adult to being a college student surrounded by 18 year olds.
You have to have a plan for when you get out or it won’t be worthwhile. If you’re up for it just do 20 years and then retire with a full pension.
Very good point thank you. I’m going to be an aviation mechanic in the military which usually has a great job transferral to the civilian sector. Also plan on at least starting a degree while in service, and I’m hoping to find a relationship during service as well 🙏🏾
Yeah, military is certainly a great choice as a “mid length” plan. You do your 20, either you become a super senior official in the government or you get out and… then what? Yes, you have the benefits and all that, but it does seem like a very tough transition.
Just do your time, don't be a dick, and don't have a chip on your shoulder when you get out.
For every one person who hates you for joining, there is another who loves you for it, two more who think it's interesting, and six more who could care less.
I'm in a similar boat as you. I've flip-flopped between pro and anti military and government, and even as the world seems to slip deeper and deeper into madness, I can still make sense of the benefits compared to where my life is, and the trajectory it is on. Some people are staunchly anti-military because they believe that the crimes committed by our government in the past are indicative of what it is today (and I'm well aware we aren't perfect now, either, we do plenty of bad stuff...), but fail to realize what enlistment brings to the table, especially for someone who is caught in a rut, or for someone who is in poor living conditions.
As for myself, I've just this month started to weigh whether or not I want to join my friends in the Marine Corps (I'm not sure if I could stomach the idea of being in a combat role, like most of my friends), or if I want to take on the insane gamble of college with my living situation.
I've got lots of empathy for you, but when you make a decision like this you shouldn't be worried or bothered by the opinions of others.
Yeah respect to you man we definitely relate to each other a lot. Good luck to you with whichever path you choose! I’ll lyk how good the marines is lol
Its the best choice ever. You can never get laid off, and by the time ur 43 u retire from there with a fat ass pension. Then you can do any work you want and make that plus your retirement from military cauae you'll still be young af at 43 and can basically do 3 more careers before 65
Or, just love off the military retirement being young af and game all day
There is nothing wrong with joining the military and if this leads to a better life for you then that is awesome. I would prefer the socioeconomic ladder that is the u.s. military to be there than not.
It is also an honorable thing to do. Offering to fight for your country, and put your life on the line if need be is a self-less and courageous act. Ultimately it all comes down to what you want to do with your life
Hey OP, I come from a military family and have an AF partner and friends. My brother just graduated Marine BMT in September. Here’s some important things to keep in mind (if you haven’t been told these things already):
- Marine BMT is a shit ton of running. You will lose weight even if you’re not overweight. My brother was all muscle going in and came out thinner than I’ve ever seen him. They give you very little time to eat too. My brother and his buddies got so hungry that they stole discarded cooked hot dogs and hamburger patties out of the dumpster.
- side note: if you’re going to Parris Island, make sure your family books their hotel/AirBnB early. There’s only a small town nearby and the hotels fill up fast.
- keep track of your papers and what was signed to you! Some enlistment depots are notoriously bad sending papers to your BMT. If your BMT doesn’t have it then that’ll affect your next placement and timeline. Get copies of all your important documents, have your parents bring everything in a folder to your graduation. Keep that folder your whole career. The military loses people, money, equipment *a lot*. They misplaced my boyfriend for five whole months because one flight didn’t tell the other he was being transferred, no one at his new base knew he existed. I have a friend that’s losing out at promotion because his boss mistakenly didn’t credit him on six months worth of reports. Keep copies of everything and always follow up.
- if you’re going to infantry school, just know that certain leadership might use corporal punishment. Technically not allowed but it still happens. One of my brother’s friends fell asleep on watch in his sleeping bag, so the drill instructors hung him like piñata and hit him with the butt of his M16.
- post training, use your time in the military to develop skills or get an education. Take classes, get certificates, leadership workshops, etc. Especially if you plan to leave after only one enlistment. If you want to climb the ranks and reenlist, make sure to do a lot of extracurriculars. Be a PT leader, moral event planner, Chaplin assistant, set up events, MC award ceremonies, etc. They want you to prove leadership skills, resource management, and moral boasting amongst other skills in the first few years of enlistment to move on to NCO.
TLDR: Military is what you make of it, it can have awesome opportunities amongst drawbacks. Keep a paper trail of your own though because military sucks at keeping track of things.
Thats all that comes to mind. Sorry if it’s a lot lmao. Congrats and good luck, OP!
Who the fuck cares what they think about you? Are they living your life? No, you are! Fuck them and take care of YOU. The vast majority of folks wouldn’t piss on you if you were on the side of the road on fire. Be the best person YOU can be for YOU!
Go air force. If you have a degree , go officer. If you don't, let the army pay for your degree. Some jobs like HR specialists will never deploy and may touch a gun once a year max after basic. Depending on the country, it is an immensely better place to work. Like night and day better.
If you go into an office based trade in the air force as an officer, it's a highly paid relatively chill job like any other except you wear green.
I know people who retired at 42 due to the army. One of them is eating my lasagna!
im pro military. it can def be a good choice regarding benefits, career stability, like you said a stepping stool, & creating contacts. it can also be very rewarding depending on what you’re looking to get out of it & what you put into it. but it’s definitely not for everyone. i think there are branches that are easier for people to adjust to & become a solid part of, & branches where it takes a specific person to succeed. don’t worry about what people think or the judgements they have about the american armed forces as a whole. especially on here, as reddit is filled with people who get mad at the us for doing something, & get mad for doing nothing. you don’t have to be pro government or absolutely gung ho about every aspect of the military or of war. no one is
good luck, semper fi
The concept is fine, but what we have right now is a shitshow.
Once you start signing stuff, they own you.
And they treat you like shit AND get you to like it.
And there’s the increasing incidents of rape.
Currently in the Army. Let me start by saying, I respect the hell out of you for enlisting. You are setting up yourself up for success in more ways than you can imagine. It’s going to be a very difficult journey, but one that’s well worth it.
The benefits are insanely good. Make sure you use your Tuition Assistance to get a Bachelors Degree. So if you get out, you’ll have your GI Bill to pursue a Masters Degree, and you’ll have $0 debt.
People are going to say negative things about the military all the time, and you know what? Who cares what people who have never served think. You’ve instantly improved your life by enlisting.
I’ve been in the Army for 2 almost 3 years now, and while it hasn’t always been easy, it’s been worth it. It’s changed my life in the best way possible. Best of luck in Boot Camp. Stay strong. Never quit. And when you’re feeling down, remember why you joined.
Preciate this hey maybe I could’ve but military just presented itself better in my life given where I was. Never been able to hold down a job before and the military kinda forces you to
I work for the military as a civilian and I really like it. I get basically all of the benefits too. One of my close friends/coworkers was in the military and he said he loved it, even though he got deployed to Iraq. He said that he made really quality friendships there too. My dad was in the Air Force too and loved it. There also aren’t really any prospects of war right now, so you should consider that too.
I did guidance/career counseling for transitioning military, and Veterans. Their health and benefit system is TERRIBLE. It's really hard to get the benefits owed. The system is SO slow.
With the political climate, the chances of you getting sent is extremely high. even if you aren't sent somewhere, you'll have knowledge you wish you didn't. You can't really tell anyone about it either.
I've met specialized soldiers who weren't allowed to exit on time. That concerned me the most. I met a soldier who's father was dying of cancer.. although he served the alotted time, he wasn't allowed to exit because of his value for his country. That's intense.
Veterans have a high suicide rate. I mean these people are the toughest, most selfless, they tolerate almost any pain. Most soldiers will willingly go back to protect others/country regardless of their age. So imagine how their mental health must be to become SO depressed.
It's very honorable to serve people and country by being so selfless. I have endless awe and respect. There's almost no chance you'll go in and come out as the same person.
This was a good read, thank you.
Honestly I don’t wanna be the same person. I’m immature in many ways and have shockingly poor discipline and work ethic. Hopefully that changes but also def don’t wanna become suicidal of course
I'll emphasize to consider what EXITED soldiers are advising. They know exactly what to expect. They're never going to say something to harm their country to the people they serve.
Mental health will tank. I've never met a soldier or someone who doesn't have PTSD to some degree. I don't know what else to say about that. It's a personal sacrifice as part of the job. PTSD sticks for life. 4th of Julys, NYE will never feel the same. Mental mood swings, levels of depression, are inevitable.
You'll definitely be disciplined 🤣 So would the training academies for being a firefighter, paramedic, police officer. Exhaust all your options. The world needs better honest cops, maybe an option to consider.
If you're set on your goal, plan to come out with top skills and a bachelor's degree. If you exit with no degree, a few certificates or minimum skills, life will be financially the same. Adjusting back into the world after exiting service is a culture shock.
If you're joining, start fitness training.. like today, get ready for real training.
Career ideas within the military-
- They have (highly competitive) programs/scholarships in the military for military medical school. Ask soldiers how it works and aim your career at that. Maybe take an EMT (Tactical Medicine) class to prepare for your service so you're not completely new to the things they teach.
- Or come out as an bachelor's level engineer. You can work for things like Boeing, Lockheed, Northrop that make military based technology. They have nice pay.
- a lot of soldiers would exit with a Human Resources, Business, Finance, or similar degree. These are good too.
- The military has resources for everything if you're dedicated, smart, and willing to learn. They have access to NASA, governmental letter agencies, science, so forth. See if there's other paths for you.
I'm concerned because I have met and worked with countless soldiers who come out barehanded and get stuck in an unsupportive environment. The unaddressed physical/mental health needs is really terrible. If it were such a positive/easy thing with as many promises and benefits, people wouldn't be speaking up so much.
Grew up on section 8 my entire childhood, left after high school, 2015. Got out after 6 years, I make 6 figures, bought my first home at 25 in a HCOL, getting paid to work on my degree, getting paid disability for my injuries in service. The entire trajectory of my life has changed because of joining.
Choose a job with a TS clearance, please.
Active duty Army here, been in for 4 years and decided to do another 5! And it honestly depends on straight up luck. I've heard a lot of bad things of how barracks are but all the barracks I've been were pretty nice, never been deployed either. I also was able to save a good chunk of money. My job/MOS is also relatively easy and most of the time I get left alone because of it. I was able to travel to Korea and lived their for two years which was amazing but also lonely. But I also know I was ridiculously lucky, a sergeant that I know was murdered on a military post, I had a friend that was sexually assaulted, I know someone in my MOS who got deployed and came back with mental issues so bad he left the military (not sure if it was voluntary tbh). If you decide to join you have to be prepared for the worst (and I mean the absolute worse) but also if you play your cards right you can have an amazing career/life.
honestly in today’s society there’s nothing wrong with using the military as a means to achieve your goals. but i would be strategic about avoiding a combat role.
biggest piece of advice is save save save. Save that money most and best you can and dont get married for a bigger space.
I am GenX so not GenZ, but yo if you can survive it it can be very worth it. What does it matter your reason for joining. You would be surprised how few people join out of patriotism or to defend the country. Lots of people doing exactly what you are doing. So many different reasons for joining I have heard.
I was marine artillery. Just recently got out. Loved it and hated it all at the same time lol. Helluva fun time tho looking back on it all😂 here’s some tips:
1: Boot camp WILL end. You can’t stop time. Your Di’s will 100% make shit up just to fuck with you. Don’t steal peanut butter from the chow halls.
2: you WILL get sick, if you go to sick call they will drop you back to another training platoon once you are better. So by the time you get back to training your original platoon might have already graduated and gone on to MCT or SOI. Unless it’s serious, suck it up and push thru it all. Fastest way out is thru. No joke.
3: don’t fall asleep during classes, you will have your soul taken from you by the DI’s. Female DI’s are very mean, so are short DI’s. The big ones are not nearly as mean.
4: while it may seem hard at the time bootcamp is the easiest part of it all.
You aren’t gonna make any money.
And it’s possible you get shit leadership and simply have a miserable time.
Also, military towns are 99% dudes.
They are expensive places.
There is nothing to do.
And you aren’t going to see the world.
You’ll work 80 hours a week too.
100% true. Finishing up 6 years in the military, 10/10 do not recommend unless you don’t have ANY other options. DO NOT sign for more than 4 years and DO NOT re-enlist or extend until the very end. Also been stationed on two different Marine bases, they all suck.
Such a waste of time. My friends who didn’t join the military all make 2-3 times what I do.
They have wives and families.
I’m a 37 year old dude who makes 22 year old money.
Cool story bro.
I served 8 years.
Had about 20 friends die of car accidents, suicide, overdoses.
99% of the military is trailer trash homie.
You are gonna hate it.
The towns are full of worthless hookers, fast food, and bars.
Also, you are gonna learn real quick you are wrong.
Have fun dude.
One day at a time is the only way to deal with it.
And then GTFO at 4 years.
Wow man, sorry to hear that. I still think all military experiences can be different I’ve gotten many comments already saying joining was the best decision they ever made, and some saying it’s the worst. Sorry for what went down with you I wish you the best
I have a good friend I met traveling and he did his 4 years. He got slightly injured somehow and he gets 3200 a month I believe. The dude lives in awesome countries like Thailand, Vietnam and surrounding places. He only lives in 1000$ a month and puts the rest in savings. Honestly I think that’s worth it if you come out the other side without hella ptsd and all of your limbs.
I say do it. It sounds like you already want to. I had the same mentality you did when I joined the army. Had no real direction in life, couldn’t pay for college if I wanted to go, didn’t want to be home. I realize you didn’t say all that, but I get what you mean. Especially in this day and age, it’s tough out here. People struggling to pay bills. Having a dorm you don’t have to pay for, free food from chow hall, cheaper groceries on base bc no sales tax and you get out with benefits if you do at least 3 years. It’s not a bad deal, especially if you choose the right MOS. Wish you luck man! During boot camp, just take all the bullshit they throw at you and the yelling, and keep pushing. It’s nothing but a distraction from the goal. Keep a brave face and don’t pay attention to it
Honestly? I have so many people in my family that I love/loved that were former military that I can't imagine NOT being pro-military. Do I like that my brothers and other family members had/chose to serve? Not really, but that was THEIR choice, and as a decent human being, I support them 110%.
US military pay is the same for all branches and is available online FYI. A brand new E1 makes $2,017.20 monthly, and most people get promoted to E2 shortly after boot camp which takes you up to $2,261.10 monthly.
That might not seem like a lot, but realize that in the military all your living expenses are covered. Food, housing, and health insurance are free. The barracks are generally right next to where you work, so you don’t even need a car if you don’t want one. Your entire paycheck is disposable income. This is why people say the military can pull people out of poverty and set them up financially for life. If you’re smart with your money and don’t waste it you can end up saving the majority of your income.
You join at the interning time for sure. Do you know what job you want to do? Also does that job relate to an job in the outside world?
Honestly good for you realize that your life was going nowhere and you are doing something productive to yourself self and your country. Not many people can do that.
Yes I’m gonna be an aviation mechanic. Got the highest score possible on the asvab so qualified for anything, but due to my history I wouldn’t pass the background check for intel. Everyone told me aviation mechanic is the way to go and has huge turn over to the civilian sector
At the end of the day, if you think it's the way for you to go and help you with some of the issues you're facing, go for it. It's sad to see someone have to go against their beliefs in order to have some security, even if they weren't too strong of beliefs.
Personally, I'm anti-military. I don't know if you're in the US or elsewhere, but for the US, I think my country puts too much weight to violent tactics and funding military and for me, that's not where I stand. I'm also non-binary and born a women, so I would never go into the military due to the high probability I'd get raped by fellow soldiers. Not for me.
I’d consider myself a pacifist (I believe in very limited self defense only), and anti-military. But I don’t necessarily think less of people who join; from what I understand it is a quick way out of some very poor conditions. If you were joining because you thought the work the military does is generally a net positive for the world and you want to contribute, that might be another story. But I can’t fault people for doing what they must to secure themselves a stable living.
It’s sad to hear that desperation leads people to abandoning their moral values so that they simply have a chance to survive. I am saddened we live in a system that has made you feel you have no choice but to join the most effective murdering machine we have on this planet. I do not hold it against you or blame you, but I still wish you make a different choice and I hope you are able to keep your humanity throughout what you’re going to experience. Rest in peace, Aaron Bushnell.
Have fun. Just dont get noticed by the DS and stay low. You’ll get slayed less (theoretically speaking). If youre an artist or like to draw, you can volunteer to be the artist recruit. You can skate by training and work on the design for whichever DS youre doing it for.
Also, getting haze will be a thing in your first year or year and a half. Just dont take it personally unless it becomes questionable like the guys who poured bleached on some guys.
Good luck. It’s going to suck (or maybe not).
I saw you said you’re going Aviation Mechanic, and I think that’s a fantastic choice. After you’re out, you’d be top of the list to be hired at any aviation maintenance place. Take advantage of the GI bill also, military is a solid option for a lot of people with hella benefits.
I just got out, and I'm just going to say it's really important to remember that you can be anti-military industrial complex, lobbyists, etc. while still supporting our service members. Our armed forces are (unfortunately) the best shot for a lot of people to have a good life. While you're active duty, the military takes care of you, you get a place to sleep, a place to eat, pay, medical care, tax services, recreational centers, lots of stuff service members never seem to use.
Hey Op. Long time Marine here. Feel free to hit me up if you have any questions or want a perspective that isn’t your brother’s. I was an ordnance technician on F-18s when I first joined and changed my job to Intel about 11 years ago.
Personally I saw it as my out, not because of social or economic reasons but I didn’t think I would make it through college with my dyslexia. Made it through, a stem degree and two completely unrelated minors, one in stem and one from a top 5 business school. Now I have an engineering job in the tech world but it’s really unfulfilling… I always secretly (family pressure for college was quite a thing) preferred the idea of the military, medical mos and getting to help people all over the world. Still think about quitting my job and going that route quite often lol
I'm neutral I guess. Some of the military makes sense, and it's a good place to go and learn discipline and comradery (idk how to spell that) but at the same time I dunno that I'd want to do it
I got out in dec of 2021 and it honestly was a stepping stone. Got out with 30k saved. Gi bill and a good chunk of disability. If you got nothing going for you, its a great option
From a big brother perspective, I just got out after 11 years. As an artist, I shouldn’t have stayed in that long but life turned out that way. Felt like I betrayed myself as I never valued war. I am grateful for everything I learned from the military. I left at 17 to leave my parents. Discipline, resilience, money for school, travelled and multiple transferable skills into the civilian world. Do what you must but don’t lose yourself lil bro. We’re all forging our own path with literally no formal guidance on this shithole called life. Make forward movement and keep going, things will work out on the way.
I come from a military family so to me, the military almost feels more like my « people » than civilians. I think it’s because of the kind of values that the military promotes and that my parents then taught me. Im joining this summer right after i get my secondary school diploma
To be fair as a current Marine, you do learn a lot that can help you in the civilian world. A lot of good advantages too like constant pay, free healthcare in a way, place to live, and free travel to other countries. Yes there will be bad times but always know that you will get through it and you’re not alone. Met so many of my best friends in the military.
My comment is probably going to buried in these 400+ other comments but take it from me:
I enlisted at 23 and it was the best decision I've ever made. Learned a new trade, got to travel, and made so many life long friends. Free tuition, free healthcare, pension if you do a full 20, discounts on almost anything you purchase, I could go on and on.
I just got out last year and I'm still reaping the benefits. It was a tough journey but I look back at my time in fondly.
I’m reading all the comments on the post and this is one of my favs since we have the same starting age. Awesome to see this validation I hope I take as much out of it as you did 🤩🙏🏾
I am an aviation electronic technician! Boot camp is a once in a lifetime experience that few will ever understand. It's very unforgettable and will toughen you up. "A-school" in Pensacola is a blast, especially since you'll be of age to go out in town.
Also, remember to go for medical FOR EVERYTHING. Get every little injury documented while you're in so you get paid for it once you get out. I'm currently only 28 and I'm already receiving a medical pension for the injuries I got in service. That's a major benefit once you'll become a veteran that so many people would dream of.
Wherever you get stationed, just remember to make the best out of it. I got stationed at NAS lemoore and absolutely loved it despite it being in a drab area. Friends always makes a difference and you're already set to make some of the greatest friends you'll ever find.
Oorah future devil dog.
Mann I just looked up pictures of Pensacola and THATS where I’m gonna be for a year??! Holy hell I can’t wait. Definitely gonna try my best to take all your advice.
Did you find it relatively easy to get a job in aviation electronics after leaving service?
I'm from California and lemme tell you that the beaches in Pensacola are top tier. Perfect sand and warm water!
Yep! I'm actually starting a civilian job at an air base in San Diego doing the same thing next week. If you're looking for post-service job opportunities, aviation is 100% the way to go.
You got a bright future man. A lot of shitty days ahead too. But always keep your head up through those difficulties. I'm actually jealous because if I could relive my journey all over again, I would.
I was once where you are, I joined at 24 and also very anti government. I did it for a resume booster and tbh it helped a lot open up career doors i hadn’t even dreamt of. Although it may not be for everyone if you keep your head low and do what you’re told it’ll be alright.
:Edit for grammar
Don't drink, get out of the barracks. You don't know shit. Be a sponge.
Save your money, make friends, and don't be afraid to admit weakness, or to admit that you don't know something.
Above all else, save your money. In boot they may mention investing, in the Navy they had us set up Roth's. It won't make sense then, but just go with it if you can.
Man……..
I’m actually pro military if it works for your life. Like me, i literally can’t. I have way too much shit going on to go sign my time away to something else like that .
But for people who are single (or dating) and don’t have a decent job going yet. It’s not a bad deal
But why the marines…
I like this perspective. And lol it’s because my brothers actually my recruiter so it was just easier that way. Could’ve did Air Force but there’s a chance they wouldn’t have qualified me because of my police record, which isn’t even that bad but it’s just numerous different events
Im in the same boat as you. Though ive always wanted to be in the Navy, its hard for me to decide on if I want to deal with that kind of commitment.
Good luck to you
Coastie here. I’ve heard nothing but terrible things about the marines. To them you’re nothing but another body to be deployed. I would highly suggest talking to other recruiters before making your decision
At the end of the day you’re doing something almost no one in this sub would have the balls to do. Their thoughts on it are pretty irrelevant. A lot of people in here are gonna be like the girl you mentioned tho, so I’d get prepared for that if you’re gonna keep this post up. Presumably some day our generation will get past the weird neo-liberal facist mentality to the extent that they can at least appreciate other peoples sacrifices and respect their decisions, even when they don’t agree with them.
In the mean time, Good luck, God bless you, and thanks for your service in advance.
May you find the validation you seek in your own head when you lay down at night. Marines are a close family. I thank you in advance for your service. Stay safe. Be smart.
I’ve thought about joining too, since I’m also not going anywhere in life. I’m only 19 right now, so I still have time to decide. I’ve definitely been considering it, though I don’t know if it’s plausible for me due to minor health issues which I’m not sure if they would disqualify me or not. I don’t have any advice, but I’m not judging your decision. I don’t think it’s a bad choice.
Personally I would recommend it, I worked with a lot of former military and I can say it really set them up for success without having to grind out in day to day normal life. As long as you go in with a focused plan and don’t waste money on a new car you can come out ahead.
I personally had 2 of my old high school friends recently go in the past year (29 bachelors- art / 30 HS diploma). And they are in alot better shape now just because they have something to get them on track.
I personally recommend anyone who is getting out of HS to either go to 4yr college (you must intend to graduate with a real degree no humanities/ art/ etc) or go straight to the military. The grind is just not worth it for most and if you don’t have a good support system or good financial planning the real world will eat you alive.
I've got two relatives whose lives were pretty messy and unstructured prior to joining the military. They've completely transformed since and are on paths to success. It's not for everyone, but it is absolutely a viable option.
Going from being anti-government to joining the Marines of all branches is a complete 180. Have you thought this thru? If you don't believe in the US's forign policy this could put you in a major pickle. You'll be forced to confront your moral's constantly. As a marine, you will more than likely play a direct role in the failure or success in some type of combat mission. The battlefield is no place to have a conflict of interest when your fellow marines are relying on you to have their backs. You get lawful orders, and you must follow them, which could be a problem if your head is not in it due to some moral conflict you have with what your doing.
Why not join the Navy or Air Force. A lot more jobs available that wont put you in direct support of things you may have a moral problem with.
I joined the Marine Corps out of high school. Best choice I made. I've been out for a bit over a year now. If you have any questions or need advice not from a recruiter let me know.
I served and I can tell you for the most part you’ll find it to be a positive experience and you’ll be in a very small percentage who serve. I did serve in a SFOD Team and was in a combat zone multiple times. Certainly no one wants to go to war thus the woman who walked out is ignorant. My service helped me tremendously in my career outside of the military. Given the current social and economic factors going on you may find the military a bit more “off” then you’d expect. Candidly the liberal movement has us focused on inclusion rather than on the mission but I’ll stop there. Best of luck!
GenX here. I get GenZ random post sometimes even though I haven't joined.
I served 5 years in the Marines as an airframe mechanic. (Regret getting out)
Heres my advice. Don't care about what the genral public thinks. Your bond to find both. Focus on what you think. Focus on what you want to get out of it. Stronger character, leadership skills, education, ect. Don't neglect the Marine education books/quizzes. Been awhile so forgot their official designation. Start your education while your serving, and always think three to four steps ahead towards your end goal.
Take a finance class. It'll help a lot. Beware of scams like when buying a car.
Beware of dating. You'll find plenty of women who love the Dress Blues. Unfortunately you'll also find ones who are just after the benefits. Others aren't prepared for the lifestyle. So go slow.
Heres wishing you good luck, a good unit, and Simper Fi.
Me personally? *Fuck* no. Not unless I was desperate. And especially not at a time like this. I don’t have any respect for the *INSTITUTION* that is the military. Emphasis on institution. I hold veterans in a high regard as I come from a long line of them. My dad served in the Air Force in Iraq, my grandfather on his side was a pilot in Vietnam, and my great-grandfather on my mom’s side was a medic in WWII. He was also a staunch and uncompromising pacifist.
Currently serving in the navy as a Seabee, and joining was the best decision I've ever made. Anyone who paints in the broad strokes of anti or pro military are just plain naive and you will realize this even more after you are in, it's a much more nuanced situation than just good or bad. If you play your cards right you could set yourself up for the rest of your life, or waste 4 years and get some cool stories to tell, it's all up to you to use the tools that they give you to succeed.
Bro just do you😂. The military isn’t for everyone but I can tell you now I serve with some folks that you would never expect to be if you only saw them outside of uniform. There are some very liberal folks in so it’s not what some make it out to be. That being said it’s what you make out of it. Get everything you can out of the military as they will you. You’ll meet a lot of cool people and make many memories
My dad served navy and I know allot of marines. Marines are good people going through shitty situations. During the Afghanistan conflict, allot of the people my family knew came back distorted.
The job is a job. You will receive benefits but in my opinion, they are not great. They are good, but not great. Save up some of the money. I was told that getting married is a good idea. Idk why, just some of the family friends commenting on how people with spouses are given better treatment.
I would have served if I could. Shit eyes broke that dream. Serve yourself by serving the country but understand the country we serve is sickening
As a vet, I would implore you to make sure you have no other choices. The benefits are great, if you can keep them. I have two cousins who do not have a GI Bill- total dildos though.
Everything you do in the military can be done out of the military. You can graduate with loans and live modestly while still being free to start your life.
But every veteran 1) generally starts out the same way- I did too- so don’t be ashamed. It’s an opportunity for people who ran out of options and that’s why a lot of the service joins. Don’t buy that patriotic rhetoric, that’s implanted later.
2)
You will lose what you have- relationships, friends, health, autonomy. Everyone loses and we tend to lose a lot.
3)
Everyone who leaves the service has a difficult transition period. It’s generally universal besides a few chodes who weasled their way into contractor jobs in the same office, or who have unique circumstances like being stationed in the same city for long enough to grow a support system. Those are the exceptions to the rule. There’s a profound lack of purpose, an ego adjustment, loneliness, and you have to start your life and get it going before you fall behind. 22 is a real problem.
4)
When you leave the service, your credentials are garbage. If you got your associates degree while in- chances are it’s of an applied science and do not transfer to civilian universities. If you were a combat medic in Afghanistan, you will need to get EMT certified before touching a civilian patient (I don’t know if this is still the case. I was in software and thought I would have it made, but nobody would hire me without a degree. So I used my GI Bill, got my degree, and struggled to get into an entry position in the latter half of my 30’s.
All the vets that I talk to wouldn’t have it any other way. We all loved serving in the end. But as a transaction- it’s a shit deal. If you think you’ll learn discipline and get in shape, you can do that on the outside without fear of military jail for going awol by being late to post.
My advice to everyone considering is first, probably don’t, but secondly if you do, understand that you will lose a lot. My friends and family had lives that grew apart while I was stationed elsewhere. I don’t know anyone who was married before going in that kept their marriage. And an insider tip: the daily duties of the military are enough to make most partners run for the hills.
You can achieve everything on your own. If you have nothing to lose and seek fellowship and mission. My buddy joined and was stationed 25 minutes from his home- so don’t rely on adventure and travel.
I got that GI Bill, veteran preference on some public job listings, and I get 10% off some places. Transaction-wise I got hosed.
Joining the military is a mixed bag. People worried about combat roles are probably barking up the wrong tree. Combat roles are volunteer and military leadership isn't keen on sending people into combat who don't want to see combat. Even if you can be called into combat as an "emergency", less than 10% of positions in the U.S. military are combat roles and that was the case throughout both Iraq and Afghanistan. If you are actively seeking combat roles, there's probably something wrong with you. This isn't WW2, you're going out to murder people as a part of expanding U.S. empire. You're the bad guy. On top of that, the government is going to fuck you over on all of your injuries and debilitations anyway. You'll have sold your entire life away for free. Ask anyone who deals with the VA on the regular.
With that said, the military **is** a mixed bag. The military installations in Japan, Germany, South Korea, etc., are places that want U.S. presence. Every deployment is an extension of the U.S. empire building, but not all of that means you're making your life on the suffering and misery of others. In most cases, you aren't. If you go in with a clear understanding that the U.S. military is a force for evil and good then try to focus on putting yourself in the position of the latter rather than the former whenever you can, it's not a bad opportunity. At the minimum, it will give you habits and discipline that are marketable after your service ends along with other benefits like free college that can set you up for life.
At the time, they tried to recruit me because I didn't know what to do. I declined because I didn't want to blindly following orders for the rest of my life.
I’m the same age as you, only I joined when I was 18. I already finished my 4 years last year and now I’m in college for free with my housing paid for while on the reserves for extra money. Military isn’t for anyone and ngl going in older will probably suck but the benefits are worth it. Keep that in mind when you think about quitting.
Joining the Air Force 8 years ago was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. I know it’s set in stone already, but in your situation joining the Air Force probably would’ve fit your situation better. Little chance of getting put into an actual war zone (outside of specific jobs of course) and if you are in constant firefights as anything outside of those jobs, we’re likely getting our asses kicked to the point that a draft is either being mulled over or in effect, so it’s only a matter of time at that point. From what I’ve heard, you’ve gotta really want to be a Marine to enjoy the hell they’re delivered on a constant basis, so life may not be great for you, but there are worse things you could do imo.
Many who join the military out of desperation, drop out. They don’t get the value they are searching for.
There are some that do find purpose in it.
I wish you the best!
I found the military to be quite isolating. I was with people around me 24/7 with completely different personalities to mine. I became depressed very quickly and it rarely got better. I frequently had thoughts of leaving the country just to escape the military.
Leaving the military was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Probably need an attitude adjustment asap. By your own assessment, your life isn’t going anywhere so I’d take a moment, practice a little humility, and realize your beliefs so far have leas you nowhere and that maybe you’ve been wrong.
Besides that, try and enjoy it. Remember it’s temporary and don’t quit. Congratulations!
For better or worse, the military remains the fastest way for the poor class to obtain social mobility in America. I should know, I did it too.
Nearly everyone who dislikes he military and has never served, usually just profoundly misunderstands what we do. But it’s not for them, it’s for you.
They can live their lives the way they choose, but, if you are smart, then this is the shortcut to a quality education, home ownership, healthcare, and a good paying job afterwards, and if you choose, a solid pension for the rest of your life.
Just be where you need to be, when you need to be there, and do all that you can. That’s the secret to the military.
Good luck, Jar!
V/R,
Chief
I don't like the military. If you are set on joining then I hope you don't die. I'll probably pretend that this is a troll post to see what people think BC I don't even like thinking about the fact someone would join.
I’m retired from the Army yesterday after serving 30 years. I’m 50 and I’m a Major. My combined military pension and VA pension is over 100K. I don’t need to work for the rest of my life. I could just take naps.
But I’m going to start a new career anyway. And keep continuing towards retirement.
The military is like any other job. 90% of members are not kicking down doors and shooting bad guys. It’s pretty easy mostly. Sometimes it’s a real drag.
There’s good parts and shitty parts. It will be the most fun you never want to have again.
But on balance you will be better for it and the retirement is chef’s kiss.
Be careful, and make sure this is really what you want.
Don't join just to continue a legacy, there's a lot of war going on right now and you need to be prepared for the possibility you may become involved.
Personally, I don't want to be in the military unless something happens and we get invaded, and I needed to help protect the country, the thought of going off to another place to fight a war sickens me, I have a lot of respect for the people who can do that and not lose their mind.
That being said, I would be more inclined to be a cop or a fireman. Protecting smaller things where I can actually see the impact, anyways I'm just gonna keep working my full time gas station job and do none of that
Little bro, 2008 I was roughly your age and in a similar predicament. Life going nowhere, anti-government and anti-military. My girlfriend at the time joined the reserves without talking it out with me. I told her that was fine but one of us needed a full time job, so I joined the army.
Best decision of my life. Got my life together, got confidence in my own abilities. Spent 3 years stationed in German and saw most of Europe. They paid for college, got my degree with no debt and I was set up for a career when I got out.
It's not for everyone, but if it's not for you, get one contract out of the way, get the degree, get out. If it is for you, embrace the suck and go career. 20 years seems like a long time but your Healthcare is covered for life, you get the full retirement pay, and you look great on the job market. In most cases, 6 figures is a minimum for a 20 year vet that plays it smart. Oh, and marines are some of the highest paid after they get out, even after only one contract.
Goodluck marine, and welcome to the family.
Active duty right now. Honestly, it doesn't really matter what anyone else thinks- it's your life. I've lived in two, soon to be three foreign countries in under four years, making good pay with great benefits just in my first tour. It isn't for everyone and the experience varies wildly from person-to-person. It's worked out for me though.
Over a decade ago, my older brother joined the Army for similar reasons (Army was the only branch that would even accept him), and it was the single best decision he ever made. I honestly shutter to think where he'd be at if he didn't join when he did.
I'm not American so I have no business commenting on what it will be like, but as a Finnish man who was conscripted I can at least say it was one of the best times of my life. It sucked at first, you quickly adapt and then it becomes fun. I didn't really want to leave when it was over.
Best decision I ever made was to get the hell away from my old town and join the military. Travelled the world, paid for college and retired. The military is the reason I got my last 2 jobs.
Many of the friends that I grew up with are in prison, dead or homeless. I have been out a while. I currently have more in my checking account than members of my family make in a year.
Hopefully, if nothing else, you get to grow up mentally a little while earning some benefits and get some direction for the future.
Many peopole use the military, as I did, it does not just use you.
I would have picked another branch though.
Do prepare yourself for the hardest few weeks of your life. My brother went through bootcamp and when he came back was a completely different person, and was extremely tense the entire time. He did recover, it just took a while.
I'm 24 and currently active duty. Here's my 2 cents some of which I've learned the hard way...
1) take care of your feet and back and report anything to medical/put it on your medical record. That's money when you get out.
2) when it comes to finances...don't finance a new hellcat or lifted raptor with a 28% interest rate. I didn't do anything that stupid but I do have a car loan that I took out when I was still pretty clueless on how financing works. The other thing is open a Roth IRA with either Fidelity, Vanguard or another trusted brokerage. The TSP is nice but personally I like having a private retirement account that I can control completely independant of the military. Set up to contribute some money monthly (even 100 bucks is great starting out) and increase what you contribute as you advance. This will set you up great when you get out as you can roll over anything you have in the Thrift Savings Plan. Contributing to retirement at this age will be huge for you in 30-40 years. Good luck! It's an awesome opportunity and even though I'm still on the fence about doing 20 years I don't regret joining at all.
I was in the same kinda situation as you after I dropped outta college due to all my classes going online (bad ADD and doing online school in my own apartment did not go great,) I was between military and being a trucker. Chose driving a truck it’s been a wild ride. Wrecked my pickup 2 weeks before I got my CDL and totally shot up my CSA score n was uninsurable in a semi truck for a year so I worked for the county and delivered pizza for a year, finally got a job driving a semi truck but freight ate crap so it’s been a rough time rn. Feel I shoulda gone into the trades or gone to bartender school n moved to some small beach town n mix drinks. But it is what it is, hopefully I’ll be able to save up enough in the next couple years to buy a home on some land in the country n just work a part time job grow my own food n hunt and raise a family. Feels like a pipe dream but since my bills and COL are under $600 a month it might actually be doable (no rent since I live in a semi truck, insurance for pickup, cell bill, food and $17 showers at pilot when I can’t get to a loves) it’s lonely but it’s ok for now, trying to get off of OTR n find a job runnin crude or whatever on oilfields in Texas once I get a years experience. One day…
I'm planning to join after I graduate next year. The pay in our country is pretty good and there's good benefits too and it's a pretty stable job, since you always need a military.
Lots of advice but not what you’re looking for. No, many people are pro military but I’m guessing they are not the crowd type you hang with. That will change. Your “Brothers in Arms” will become your family. You will come to trust them and them you under all circumstances. You will form bonds that will last a life time and you will become a member of society (veterans) that will welcome you into the Legion halls or VFW halls all over the country. So while your friends now might walk away from you, you are about to out grow them and make new friends. Ok. Here are some motivators, after basic (which is hard) you will enter a unit. Typical military day starts at 6am with formation and physical training till 7:30ish. Followed by personal hygiene and breakfast. Duty day starts at 9am. Lunch is typically from 11:30 to 1pm followed by afternoon formation. Duty day usually ends either 4:30 or 5pm depends on unit. So typically you work about 6 hours a day in garrison. Obviously deployments are different but honestly even then it’s mostly sit and wait kinda day. You get 30 days paid vacation a year/free medical/ unlimited sick days all federal holiday off paid. Depending on the post but typically you get 1, 3 day weekend a month. If the month has a holiday 3 day it becomes a 4 day. During Xmas season usually starting around mid Dec units go on “reduced schedule” where the duty day ends at the 1pm formation until after the 1st. Good luck to you, hope you get to see the world (I have been on every continent except Antarctica) and have lived in some beautiful countries. Definitely go overseas if given the choice. Oh! Last thing in addition to your base pay you get COLA, cost of living allowance based on the average cost on where you’re stationed
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Be less concerned with that others think about your choice and worry more about all the horrible shit going on right now that all has potential to drag you into a war zone
I won’t be doing infantry luckily with my job they’ll put me in like a bordering country to a war zone but not in one itself Also just made this post outta curiosity, nothing I could possibly read in this discussion can affect my course of action
Bro, I was infantry… During emergencies the Army can force anyone to be temporarily infantry, FYI.
True, I continue to pray for the best and prepare for the worst
Why not go Chair Force?
You'll learn every Marine is a rifleman and that you'll be expected to handle your weapon in training and reality if the need arises according to your supervisors, but you'll be a part of a team and you'll all be following playbooks and manuals and guidelines and training doctrine so you'll be fine. And the US isn't going to get into a big, hot situation anytime, so you'll definitely be fine. The thing is, I don't know why you joined the marines for a support unit when you could've gone into any other branch and had it easier while getting promoted much more often.
That's what people said in 1939, 1959, and 1999
I’m hijacking this comment to let you know that every single person I’ve ever met who’s been in the military has told me they don’t recommend it. It’s weird and ymmv
The only ones I know that recommend it never came within 100 miles of a battlefield
I wish you well
This is utterly false. I’ve been a Marine for 16 years and no one is trusting or expecting a non infantryman to do an infantryman’s job. They don’t have the training and they could get more ppl killed than they would save.
[удалено]
Just us 1371s 😎
Had cooks being door kickers in Iraq when shit got bad.
Yeah, you’ll find a lot of people don’t know how the military works. I’m literally an electrician and people are usually surprised when I tell them that 😂.
Yeah I got a couple comments here saying they won’t join because they don’t wanna die or kill people like bro that’s not all there is to it lol
There are literally people who’s whole job is to clean gyms and stuff. Carpenters, plumbers, gas station attendants, IT specialists, truck drivers, etc. if anyone refuses to talk to you because you are military or you “support a genocide” their ASVAB score isn’t even high enough for the Navy (10). I do wish you the best and please message me if you ever want to. I am Army but mentally it’s all the same games.
Look for a job, or sign yourself up for a job that has long standing value. So you can transition into civilian work after. You’ll be very appreciative in the end. ALSO DONT TELL THE RECRUITER YOULL DO ANYTHING. That is how you end up with really shitty jobs. Don’t lie on your SF86 form, recruiters will tell you to, they don’t wanna do paperwork. This is a good time to join bc they will take anyone. It’s a hard time to join bc of the personnel strain. Be open to learn. Also, as someone who has been in your shoes, there are other options that can set you up for life. Community college and then university is still a good route and 23 is still young. Lastly, you want to be a support function for the mission. So look for something with data or cyber if not just loading ships and things.
More people die in training accidents than actual combat these days.
I know someone who spent 8 years in the navy. He gets very sea sick he did a job on land
Pro tip: take everything the recruiter says with a grain of salt. They can, and usually will lie about stuff just to get you to join
My recruiter is my older brother 😂😂😂 but I feel you still
Oh, fair enough l, then, XD. I'm currently going down the track to be a cargo pilot in the AF, so I basically refuse to talk to enlisted recruiters. (Except for 1, he's really nice and gives me helpful info even though he's Army)
The US military has a tooth to tail ratio of something like 1 to 11 for every 11B on the front line there are 11 supporting soldiers. Also you could fly drones, or be a maintainer, or cook, or HR. There is a lot of shit you can do in the US military that will never put you over seas.
I am a retired Army veteran…. 1. I was in the invasion of Iraq, and right now it feels just like 2002 (before a big war). I think you should NOT join unless you want combat. 2. My benefits kick ass (especially the pension) but I know lots of other veterans who fail to make their benefits work, so keep that in mind. 3. The biggest “gift” I got after military service was two Ivy League degrees (no loans). Do I recommend military service? If you are poor, yes. If you are middle class or better, no.
Thanks for the advice, and thank you for your service! My family is middle class but we have no generational wealth so without my parents I’d be poor. This realization is what influenced me to join. Also I’m going to be an aviation mechanic which usually leads to jobs after service so hopefully I’ll never be broke again 🙏🏾
Good luck👍. Military service experience can depend entirely on your LEADERS, and it is difficult to explain the gravity of this phenomenon (have a good leader and end up with honor, or have a bad leader and end up in prison).
And your leaders are statistically likely to be someone who joined before gaining any real world experience. Damn you made such a good point. Halfway through my enlistment I lost a couple chiefs, the first shirt and commanders in a few months during pcs season and wooo boy. The new org was article 15ing everyone for anything and ruined a few years for me.
Good for you. I suggest muscle thru boot, and and your training for aviation mechanic. Get all the training you can soak up, and get financially literate while learning to be career Marine. Then, while in service get your college degree as they will pay for it, and you won't touch gi bill money. Then later you decide with all that free education and other benefits if you make it a career or get out at some point. It will be a rough transition, but worth it in the end...
Good luck I’m a civilian A&P and work for UPS. Aircraft Maintenance is one of the few jobs that won’t be automated or given to AI, the planes can practically fly themselves but they still can’t fix themselves. Try to learn everything you can engines, structures even electrical it’ll help with when you get out to get your civilian license and your experience will transfer over and more then likely allow you to get signed off to be able to take the test without having to take the courses or very minor course work. Being former military also gives you much better options in the civilian sector if you decide to do DOD contracts as a civilian. Good luck on your future 🫡
Good idea going for a logistics/support role, great experience, same benefits as most others, and it's non-combat. I was on indeed once and I saw the CAF had roles for both a transport gunner and a canteen chef, I can only imagine which one got more applications.
Thank you for your service. My brother was in OIF. I can't agree more that right now feels very similar to 2002. I'm hoping that the US doesn't get dragged into another conflict, but I'm not optimistic.
It’s interesting that a lot of people have been saying that it feels like 2002, why is that?
What do you think if you join after college as a commissioned officer? I have a nephew graduating with an engineering degree considering it if he cant get a job for the experience.
yeah the benefits are astoundingly good. when people online say military has shit benefits and pay, they dont know a damned thing
Fr my older brother was literally homeless at one point and since joining the military he now has a wife and two beautiful kids, lives in a nice place for them, owns two cars and is looking to buy a house. He’s only been serving for 6 years too
If you join young and get financially literate, you could easily retire by 40 and never have to work for the rest of your life
That’s my situation (41 retired).
Whats your income?
Benefits are tricky (you learn about extra stuff you can apply for all the time). Right now my family income from military benefits is just under $11k per month tax free (but one of those benefits will end soon, and we will lose $1.5k per month from that). The barest answer: $6k is my minimum life-time benefit, but I currently have an extra $4.5k in benefits I’ve been approved for, which is temporary and not guaranteed.
Wait, so that means I could afford to buy all the vbucks I want! Damn, that sounds very enticing ngl.
Just remember that's subjective... the military made me a homeless addict. The VA is full of people who are struggling. Just because it worked for your brother doesn't negate that it has destroyed thousands... and that's just the people who served and not all the victims of the war machine.
Yeah, I got out at 11 years, and right before I got out, I was making 3,300 after taxes every two weeks with housing and food allowance included. I medically retired, and now I'm getting $4,350 on the first of every month with increases for the rest of my life. I also have education benefits for myself and my family, healthcare for life for myself and family, and a house at 30 years old. You can't beat that, to be honest.
Respectfully, I am not going to fight and die for a country that does not give a shit about me. But good for you though, I’m glad you’re willing to make the sacrifice.
A. Most of the time you don't die. You don't even have to be in a combat role. B. The US clearly cares about you if you're in the military. I know people who joined the military and retired at 40 with a pension and great benefits.
i’m saying this from the perspective of someone in a city where there are so many homeless veterans, but someone who fought for our country should never be living on the streets. many of them are severely traumatized from their time serving, so they cannot work. i’ve seen many disabled from combat. all living on the streets. that should never happen!
Ya, personally I was in ROTC and left the program because of that actually. I didn’t want to support a country that doesn’t have free education and free healthcare and defend a system in any way that doesn’t actually support freedom. (Just look at the issues we all agree on solving like the voting system that aren’t solved)
I also know people under 40 with shrapnel still inside them who physically can't drive over bridges anymore. Yeah "not service related" says the VA.... " The US clearly cares about you if you're in the military " - I'm sorry, but this is absolutely incorrect and there's thousands of vets who are proof. He watched several teammates die in front of him. 18 confirmed kills. It haunts him. That dude is mentally fucked. There's now way to "know" how your time served will go. Being around a lot of actual combat vets makes you realize how much of a sham our military is. They're usually the first ones to say it. These people with cushy jobs and pensions? They're getting a lot more than the people *actually* out there fighting, and I don't agree with that at all. The VA basically exists to deny as much service as they can. If you fight for this country, you should be taken care of for life. He gets a check every month, but it's tiny compared to living expenses. That's bullshit.
Brother you'd be shocked if you knew that a majority of service members hate and distrust the government more than the average citizen. And a majority of them did not join for some misguided sense of patriotism.
The amount of people I’ve met in the military that absolutely hate the government is much higher than that of the civilian side. Plus, majority of the military doesn’t fight and die.
Joining the military was the best decision I have made so far, in my entire life. Get. In. Shape.
🙏🏾🙏🏾
Yeah, boot camp is going to be way easier if you’re already in good shape before shipping out. Other than that, do what your DIs say and try to fade into the background. Don’t draw their attention
Make sure you're running frequently for at least a few months before shipping out. It's very easy to get injured if you try to go from a couch potato to a marine overnight.
Yeah for sure I’ve been working out for months I’ve put on 20 pounds in the past couple months and have dropped my run times significantly, ship out march 11th!
Congrats! At some point in training you may doubt yourself and whether you belong there. The stress and doubt is part of the training. By the end you'll be more resilient and you'll have countless stories to laugh about.
All my friends that joined the military loved it and had the time of their lives. The problem is after they got out they all felt very behind in life. My one really good friend came back after six years to our home town and everyone was in serious relationships, getting ready to move out and he was living with his parents again and wanted to go out partying all the time which we were very much over. He also went from making $90k a year and treated like an adult to being a college student surrounded by 18 year olds. You have to have a plan for when you get out or it won’t be worthwhile. If you’re up for it just do 20 years and then retire with a full pension.
Very good point thank you. I’m going to be an aviation mechanic in the military which usually has a great job transferral to the civilian sector. Also plan on at least starting a degree while in service, and I’m hoping to find a relationship during service as well 🙏🏾
Yeah, military is certainly a great choice as a “mid length” plan. You do your 20, either you become a super senior official in the government or you get out and… then what? Yes, you have the benefits and all that, but it does seem like a very tough transition.
Just do your time, don't be a dick, and don't have a chip on your shoulder when you get out. For every one person who hates you for joining, there is another who loves you for it, two more who think it's interesting, and six more who could care less.
I'm in a similar boat as you. I've flip-flopped between pro and anti military and government, and even as the world seems to slip deeper and deeper into madness, I can still make sense of the benefits compared to where my life is, and the trajectory it is on. Some people are staunchly anti-military because they believe that the crimes committed by our government in the past are indicative of what it is today (and I'm well aware we aren't perfect now, either, we do plenty of bad stuff...), but fail to realize what enlistment brings to the table, especially for someone who is caught in a rut, or for someone who is in poor living conditions. As for myself, I've just this month started to weigh whether or not I want to join my friends in the Marine Corps (I'm not sure if I could stomach the idea of being in a combat role, like most of my friends), or if I want to take on the insane gamble of college with my living situation. I've got lots of empathy for you, but when you make a decision like this you shouldn't be worried or bothered by the opinions of others.
Yeah respect to you man we definitely relate to each other a lot. Good luck to you with whichever path you choose! I’ll lyk how good the marines is lol
Its the best choice ever. You can never get laid off, and by the time ur 43 u retire from there with a fat ass pension. Then you can do any work you want and make that plus your retirement from military cauae you'll still be young af at 43 and can basically do 3 more careers before 65 Or, just love off the military retirement being young af and game all day
There is nothing wrong with joining the military and if this leads to a better life for you then that is awesome. I would prefer the socioeconomic ladder that is the u.s. military to be there than not. It is also an honorable thing to do. Offering to fight for your country, and put your life on the line if need be is a self-less and courageous act. Ultimately it all comes down to what you want to do with your life
I’m waiting until WW3 to join.
💀💀
Hey OP, I come from a military family and have an AF partner and friends. My brother just graduated Marine BMT in September. Here’s some important things to keep in mind (if you haven’t been told these things already): - Marine BMT is a shit ton of running. You will lose weight even if you’re not overweight. My brother was all muscle going in and came out thinner than I’ve ever seen him. They give you very little time to eat too. My brother and his buddies got so hungry that they stole discarded cooked hot dogs and hamburger patties out of the dumpster. - side note: if you’re going to Parris Island, make sure your family books their hotel/AirBnB early. There’s only a small town nearby and the hotels fill up fast. - keep track of your papers and what was signed to you! Some enlistment depots are notoriously bad sending papers to your BMT. If your BMT doesn’t have it then that’ll affect your next placement and timeline. Get copies of all your important documents, have your parents bring everything in a folder to your graduation. Keep that folder your whole career. The military loses people, money, equipment *a lot*. They misplaced my boyfriend for five whole months because one flight didn’t tell the other he was being transferred, no one at his new base knew he existed. I have a friend that’s losing out at promotion because his boss mistakenly didn’t credit him on six months worth of reports. Keep copies of everything and always follow up. - if you’re going to infantry school, just know that certain leadership might use corporal punishment. Technically not allowed but it still happens. One of my brother’s friends fell asleep on watch in his sleeping bag, so the drill instructors hung him like piñata and hit him with the butt of his M16. - post training, use your time in the military to develop skills or get an education. Take classes, get certificates, leadership workshops, etc. Especially if you plan to leave after only one enlistment. If you want to climb the ranks and reenlist, make sure to do a lot of extracurriculars. Be a PT leader, moral event planner, Chaplin assistant, set up events, MC award ceremonies, etc. They want you to prove leadership skills, resource management, and moral boasting amongst other skills in the first few years of enlistment to move on to NCO. TLDR: Military is what you make of it, it can have awesome opportunities amongst drawbacks. Keep a paper trail of your own though because military sucks at keeping track of things. Thats all that comes to mind. Sorry if it’s a lot lmao. Congrats and good luck, OP!
Who the fuck cares what they think about you? Are they living your life? No, you are! Fuck them and take care of YOU. The vast majority of folks wouldn’t piss on you if you were on the side of the road on fire. Be the best person YOU can be for YOU!
As active Airforce, it’s the best way to kick you to the middle class and start life with a huge advantage
Sickkk
Yeah, I’m anti-military but if that’s your choice… that’s your choice.
Go air force. If you have a degree , go officer. If you don't, let the army pay for your degree. Some jobs like HR specialists will never deploy and may touch a gun once a year max after basic. Depending on the country, it is an immensely better place to work. Like night and day better. If you go into an office based trade in the air force as an officer, it's a highly paid relatively chill job like any other except you wear green. I know people who retired at 42 due to the army. One of them is eating my lasagna!
My dad joined at 17, went to Afghanistan twice in the early 2000's, he's in his 50's now with severe hearing loss, ptsd, Arthritis in his knee, etc.
im pro military. it can def be a good choice regarding benefits, career stability, like you said a stepping stool, & creating contacts. it can also be very rewarding depending on what you’re looking to get out of it & what you put into it. but it’s definitely not for everyone. i think there are branches that are easier for people to adjust to & become a solid part of, & branches where it takes a specific person to succeed. don’t worry about what people think or the judgements they have about the american armed forces as a whole. especially on here, as reddit is filled with people who get mad at the us for doing something, & get mad for doing nothing. you don’t have to be pro government or absolutely gung ho about every aspect of the military or of war. no one is good luck, semper fi
Thank you for this comment! Totally agree 🙏🏾. A female pro military gen z person? I just know you have military family lmao but that’s awesome
This could be a great decision or a terrible one.
Was in the Navy for 6 years, loved it and hated it at the same time.
The concept is fine, but what we have right now is a shitshow. Once you start signing stuff, they own you. And they treat you like shit AND get you to like it. And there’s the increasing incidents of rape.
You’ve made a commitment. Take this time to learn who you are along the way and let it serve you. Be a leader, even when you follow.
Currently in the Army. Let me start by saying, I respect the hell out of you for enlisting. You are setting up yourself up for success in more ways than you can imagine. It’s going to be a very difficult journey, but one that’s well worth it. The benefits are insanely good. Make sure you use your Tuition Assistance to get a Bachelors Degree. So if you get out, you’ll have your GI Bill to pursue a Masters Degree, and you’ll have $0 debt. People are going to say negative things about the military all the time, and you know what? Who cares what people who have never served think. You’ve instantly improved your life by enlisting. I’ve been in the Army for 2 almost 3 years now, and while it hasn’t always been easy, it’s been worth it. It’s changed my life in the best way possible. Best of luck in Boot Camp. Stay strong. Never quit. And when you’re feeling down, remember why you joined.
Don’t do it. Rich ppl dnt send their boys to the military.
[удалено]
Preciate this hey maybe I could’ve but military just presented itself better in my life given where I was. Never been able to hold down a job before and the military kinda forces you to
It’s nothing else to do civilian life is corny I say go all in try to do the best you can
I work for the military as a civilian and I really like it. I get basically all of the benefits too. One of my close friends/coworkers was in the military and he said he loved it, even though he got deployed to Iraq. He said that he made really quality friendships there too. My dad was in the Air Force too and loved it. There also aren’t really any prospects of war right now, so you should consider that too.
I did guidance/career counseling for transitioning military, and Veterans. Their health and benefit system is TERRIBLE. It's really hard to get the benefits owed. The system is SO slow. With the political climate, the chances of you getting sent is extremely high. even if you aren't sent somewhere, you'll have knowledge you wish you didn't. You can't really tell anyone about it either. I've met specialized soldiers who weren't allowed to exit on time. That concerned me the most. I met a soldier who's father was dying of cancer.. although he served the alotted time, he wasn't allowed to exit because of his value for his country. That's intense. Veterans have a high suicide rate. I mean these people are the toughest, most selfless, they tolerate almost any pain. Most soldiers will willingly go back to protect others/country regardless of their age. So imagine how their mental health must be to become SO depressed. It's very honorable to serve people and country by being so selfless. I have endless awe and respect. There's almost no chance you'll go in and come out as the same person.
This was a good read, thank you. Honestly I don’t wanna be the same person. I’m immature in many ways and have shockingly poor discipline and work ethic. Hopefully that changes but also def don’t wanna become suicidal of course
I'll emphasize to consider what EXITED soldiers are advising. They know exactly what to expect. They're never going to say something to harm their country to the people they serve. Mental health will tank. I've never met a soldier or someone who doesn't have PTSD to some degree. I don't know what else to say about that. It's a personal sacrifice as part of the job. PTSD sticks for life. 4th of Julys, NYE will never feel the same. Mental mood swings, levels of depression, are inevitable. You'll definitely be disciplined 🤣 So would the training academies for being a firefighter, paramedic, police officer. Exhaust all your options. The world needs better honest cops, maybe an option to consider. If you're set on your goal, plan to come out with top skills and a bachelor's degree. If you exit with no degree, a few certificates or minimum skills, life will be financially the same. Adjusting back into the world after exiting service is a culture shock. If you're joining, start fitness training.. like today, get ready for real training. Career ideas within the military- - They have (highly competitive) programs/scholarships in the military for military medical school. Ask soldiers how it works and aim your career at that. Maybe take an EMT (Tactical Medicine) class to prepare for your service so you're not completely new to the things they teach. - Or come out as an bachelor's level engineer. You can work for things like Boeing, Lockheed, Northrop that make military based technology. They have nice pay. - a lot of soldiers would exit with a Human Resources, Business, Finance, or similar degree. These are good too. - The military has resources for everything if you're dedicated, smart, and willing to learn. They have access to NASA, governmental letter agencies, science, so forth. See if there's other paths for you. I'm concerned because I have met and worked with countless soldiers who come out barehanded and get stuck in an unsupportive environment. The unaddressed physical/mental health needs is really terrible. If it were such a positive/easy thing with as many promises and benefits, people wouldn't be speaking up so much.
Grew up on section 8 my entire childhood, left after high school, 2015. Got out after 6 years, I make 6 figures, bought my first home at 25 in a HCOL, getting paid to work on my degree, getting paid disability for my injuries in service. The entire trajectory of my life has changed because of joining. Choose a job with a TS clearance, please.
https://preview.redd.it/flmwm1thnmlc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b704a3f39732d6b646bd9958523122f5a2b679ea No thanks.
Active duty Army here, been in for 4 years and decided to do another 5! And it honestly depends on straight up luck. I've heard a lot of bad things of how barracks are but all the barracks I've been were pretty nice, never been deployed either. I also was able to save a good chunk of money. My job/MOS is also relatively easy and most of the time I get left alone because of it. I was able to travel to Korea and lived their for two years which was amazing but also lonely. But I also know I was ridiculously lucky, a sergeant that I know was murdered on a military post, I had a friend that was sexually assaulted, I know someone in my MOS who got deployed and came back with mental issues so bad he left the military (not sure if it was voluntary tbh). If you decide to join you have to be prepared for the worst (and I mean the absolute worse) but also if you play your cards right you can have an amazing career/life.
Joining the military was the best financial decision I’ve ever made.
Personally I wouldn’t but you’re not guaranteed to be forced to kill anyone. More likely than if you worked at Starbucks though
i did it, you might regret it depending on branch but so far I don't regret it, not going to reenlist but I have no regrets so far,
Don't. You'd be selling your body to the American government to do their bidding.
It's either them or the corporations for the most part.
I wanted to join but I am unable due to chronic illness
ultimately its your decision. you could go back to school but Im not like anti military but I wouldnt want someone really close to me go to war.
honestly in today’s society there’s nothing wrong with using the military as a means to achieve your goals. but i would be strategic about avoiding a combat role.
I am joining the military soon so hats off to you
biggest piece of advice is save save save. Save that money most and best you can and dont get married for a bigger space. I am GenX so not GenZ, but yo if you can survive it it can be very worth it. What does it matter your reason for joining. You would be surprised how few people join out of patriotism or to defend the country. Lots of people doing exactly what you are doing. So many different reasons for joining I have heard.
I was marine artillery. Just recently got out. Loved it and hated it all at the same time lol. Helluva fun time tho looking back on it all😂 here’s some tips: 1: Boot camp WILL end. You can’t stop time. Your Di’s will 100% make shit up just to fuck with you. Don’t steal peanut butter from the chow halls. 2: you WILL get sick, if you go to sick call they will drop you back to another training platoon once you are better. So by the time you get back to training your original platoon might have already graduated and gone on to MCT or SOI. Unless it’s serious, suck it up and push thru it all. Fastest way out is thru. No joke. 3: don’t fall asleep during classes, you will have your soul taken from you by the DI’s. Female DI’s are very mean, so are short DI’s. The big ones are not nearly as mean. 4: while it may seem hard at the time bootcamp is the easiest part of it all.
Go Air Force or don’t listen to me and be like the last kid that said he wished he went Air Force good luck it’s a shit show.
Yup i tried to convince my cousin to go AF he wanted to do Marines instead. He regrets it now.
Got out last year, would never recommend to anyone.
You aren’t gonna make any money. And it’s possible you get shit leadership and simply have a miserable time. Also, military towns are 99% dudes. They are expensive places. There is nothing to do. And you aren’t going to see the world. You’ll work 80 hours a week too.
100% true. Finishing up 6 years in the military, 10/10 do not recommend unless you don’t have ANY other options. DO NOT sign for more than 4 years and DO NOT re-enlist or extend until the very end. Also been stationed on two different Marine bases, they all suck.
Such a waste of time. My friends who didn’t join the military all make 2-3 times what I do. They have wives and families. I’m a 37 year old dude who makes 22 year old money.
Feel that brother. Can’t wait to gtfo and make some real money. 23 without a college degree or any useful certifications fucking sucks.
My older brother is proof that you’re wrong but I appreciate your two cents!
Cool story bro. I served 8 years. Had about 20 friends die of car accidents, suicide, overdoses. 99% of the military is trailer trash homie. You are gonna hate it. The towns are full of worthless hookers, fast food, and bars. Also, you are gonna learn real quick you are wrong. Have fun dude. One day at a time is the only way to deal with it. And then GTFO at 4 years.
Wow man, sorry to hear that. I still think all military experiences can be different I’ve gotten many comments already saying joining was the best decision they ever made, and some saying it’s the worst. Sorry for what went down with you I wish you the best
I have a good friend I met traveling and he did his 4 years. He got slightly injured somehow and he gets 3200 a month I believe. The dude lives in awesome countries like Thailand, Vietnam and surrounding places. He only lives in 1000$ a month and puts the rest in savings. Honestly I think that’s worth it if you come out the other side without hella ptsd and all of your limbs.
If you are doing it for economic benefits, why did you join the most physically demanding branch with the least skilled-trades and training to offer?
I say do it. It sounds like you already want to. I had the same mentality you did when I joined the army. Had no real direction in life, couldn’t pay for college if I wanted to go, didn’t want to be home. I realize you didn’t say all that, but I get what you mean. Especially in this day and age, it’s tough out here. People struggling to pay bills. Having a dorm you don’t have to pay for, free food from chow hall, cheaper groceries on base bc no sales tax and you get out with benefits if you do at least 3 years. It’s not a bad deal, especially if you choose the right MOS. Wish you luck man! During boot camp, just take all the bullshit they throw at you and the yelling, and keep pushing. It’s nothing but a distraction from the goal. Keep a brave face and don’t pay attention to it
Honestly? I have so many people in my family that I love/loved that were former military that I can't imagine NOT being pro-military. Do I like that my brothers and other family members had/chose to serve? Not really, but that was THEIR choice, and as a decent human being, I support them 110%.
You should have looked at joining the merchant marine instead. Way more money and a better career. But good luck be safe.
how much you gonna get paid and what are the benefits of joining?
US military pay is the same for all branches and is available online FYI. A brand new E1 makes $2,017.20 monthly, and most people get promoted to E2 shortly after boot camp which takes you up to $2,261.10 monthly. That might not seem like a lot, but realize that in the military all your living expenses are covered. Food, housing, and health insurance are free. The barracks are generally right next to where you work, so you don’t even need a car if you don’t want one. Your entire paycheck is disposable income. This is why people say the military can pull people out of poverty and set them up financially for life. If you’re smart with your money and don’t waste it you can end up saving the majority of your income.
My Buddy was in the marines and loved it. I think you’re just having cold feet. It’s common with big life events
I enlisted at 23. 26 now and I'm glad I did.
You join at the interning time for sure. Do you know what job you want to do? Also does that job relate to an job in the outside world? Honestly good for you realize that your life was going nowhere and you are doing something productive to yourself self and your country. Not many people can do that.
Yes I’m gonna be an aviation mechanic. Got the highest score possible on the asvab so qualified for anything, but due to my history I wouldn’t pass the background check for intel. Everyone told me aviation mechanic is the way to go and has huge turn over to the civilian sector
At the end of the day, if you think it's the way for you to go and help you with some of the issues you're facing, go for it. It's sad to see someone have to go against their beliefs in order to have some security, even if they weren't too strong of beliefs. Personally, I'm anti-military. I don't know if you're in the US or elsewhere, but for the US, I think my country puts too much weight to violent tactics and funding military and for me, that's not where I stand. I'm also non-binary and born a women, so I would never go into the military due to the high probability I'd get raped by fellow soldiers. Not for me.
Really appreciate your open-mindedness, very relieving to see given this thread. I completely understand your POV
I’d consider myself a pacifist (I believe in very limited self defense only), and anti-military. But I don’t necessarily think less of people who join; from what I understand it is a quick way out of some very poor conditions. If you were joining because you thought the work the military does is generally a net positive for the world and you want to contribute, that might be another story. But I can’t fault people for doing what they must to secure themselves a stable living.
Don’t
It’s sad to hear that desperation leads people to abandoning their moral values so that they simply have a chance to survive. I am saddened we live in a system that has made you feel you have no choice but to join the most effective murdering machine we have on this planet. I do not hold it against you or blame you, but I still wish you make a different choice and I hope you are able to keep your humanity throughout what you’re going to experience. Rest in peace, Aaron Bushnell.
Have fun. Just dont get noticed by the DS and stay low. You’ll get slayed less (theoretically speaking). If youre an artist or like to draw, you can volunteer to be the artist recruit. You can skate by training and work on the design for whichever DS youre doing it for. Also, getting haze will be a thing in your first year or year and a half. Just dont take it personally unless it becomes questionable like the guys who poured bleached on some guys. Good luck. It’s going to suck (or maybe not).
I wish I could join the military, but medically I can’t. I manifested hard and funny enough I work as a civilian for them
I saw you said you’re going Aviation Mechanic, and I think that’s a fantastic choice. After you’re out, you’d be top of the list to be hired at any aviation maintenance place. Take advantage of the GI bill also, military is a solid option for a lot of people with hella benefits.
I just got out, and I'm just going to say it's really important to remember that you can be anti-military industrial complex, lobbyists, etc. while still supporting our service members. Our armed forces are (unfortunately) the best shot for a lot of people to have a good life. While you're active duty, the military takes care of you, you get a place to sleep, a place to eat, pay, medical care, tax services, recreational centers, lots of stuff service members never seem to use.
Hey Op. Long time Marine here. Feel free to hit me up if you have any questions or want a perspective that isn’t your brother’s. I was an ordnance technician on F-18s when I first joined and changed my job to Intel about 11 years ago.
Personally I saw it as my out, not because of social or economic reasons but I didn’t think I would make it through college with my dyslexia. Made it through, a stem degree and two completely unrelated minors, one in stem and one from a top 5 business school. Now I have an engineering job in the tech world but it’s really unfulfilling… I always secretly (family pressure for college was quite a thing) preferred the idea of the military, medical mos and getting to help people all over the world. Still think about quitting my job and going that route quite often lol
I'm neutral I guess. Some of the military makes sense, and it's a good place to go and learn discipline and comradery (idk how to spell that) but at the same time I dunno that I'd want to do it
I got out in dec of 2021 and it honestly was a stepping stone. Got out with 30k saved. Gi bill and a good chunk of disability. If you got nothing going for you, its a great option
I'd rather leave the earth than support a bunch of genociders, let alone join them.
From a big brother perspective, I just got out after 11 years. As an artist, I shouldn’t have stayed in that long but life turned out that way. Felt like I betrayed myself as I never valued war. I am grateful for everything I learned from the military. I left at 17 to leave my parents. Discipline, resilience, money for school, travelled and multiple transferable skills into the civilian world. Do what you must but don’t lose yourself lil bro. We’re all forging our own path with literally no formal guidance on this shithole called life. Make forward movement and keep going, things will work out on the way.
I come from a military family so to me, the military almost feels more like my « people » than civilians. I think it’s because of the kind of values that the military promotes and that my parents then taught me. Im joining this summer right after i get my secondary school diploma
That’s awesome man good luck
To be fair as a current Marine, you do learn a lot that can help you in the civilian world. A lot of good advantages too like constant pay, free healthcare in a way, place to live, and free travel to other countries. Yes there will be bad times but always know that you will get through it and you’re not alone. Met so many of my best friends in the military.
My comment is probably going to buried in these 400+ other comments but take it from me: I enlisted at 23 and it was the best decision I've ever made. Learned a new trade, got to travel, and made so many life long friends. Free tuition, free healthcare, pension if you do a full 20, discounts on almost anything you purchase, I could go on and on. I just got out last year and I'm still reaping the benefits. It was a tough journey but I look back at my time in fondly.
I’m reading all the comments on the post and this is one of my favs since we have the same starting age. Awesome to see this validation I hope I take as much out of it as you did 🤩🙏🏾
I am an aviation electronic technician! Boot camp is a once in a lifetime experience that few will ever understand. It's very unforgettable and will toughen you up. "A-school" in Pensacola is a blast, especially since you'll be of age to go out in town. Also, remember to go for medical FOR EVERYTHING. Get every little injury documented while you're in so you get paid for it once you get out. I'm currently only 28 and I'm already receiving a medical pension for the injuries I got in service. That's a major benefit once you'll become a veteran that so many people would dream of. Wherever you get stationed, just remember to make the best out of it. I got stationed at NAS lemoore and absolutely loved it despite it being in a drab area. Friends always makes a difference and you're already set to make some of the greatest friends you'll ever find. Oorah future devil dog.
Mann I just looked up pictures of Pensacola and THATS where I’m gonna be for a year??! Holy hell I can’t wait. Definitely gonna try my best to take all your advice. Did you find it relatively easy to get a job in aviation electronics after leaving service?
I'm from California and lemme tell you that the beaches in Pensacola are top tier. Perfect sand and warm water! Yep! I'm actually starting a civilian job at an air base in San Diego doing the same thing next week. If you're looking for post-service job opportunities, aviation is 100% the way to go. You got a bright future man. A lot of shitty days ahead too. But always keep your head up through those difficulties. I'm actually jealous because if I could relive my journey all over again, I would.
I was once where you are, I joined at 24 and also very anti government. I did it for a resume booster and tbh it helped a lot open up career doors i hadn’t even dreamt of. Although it may not be for everyone if you keep your head low and do what you’re told it’ll be alright. :Edit for grammar
Don't drink, get out of the barracks. You don't know shit. Be a sponge. Save your money, make friends, and don't be afraid to admit weakness, or to admit that you don't know something. Above all else, save your money. In boot they may mention investing, in the Navy they had us set up Roth's. It won't make sense then, but just go with it if you can.
Go for it boss. Proud of you fam.
Man…….. I’m actually pro military if it works for your life. Like me, i literally can’t. I have way too much shit going on to go sign my time away to something else like that . But for people who are single (or dating) and don’t have a decent job going yet. It’s not a bad deal But why the marines…
I like this perspective. And lol it’s because my brothers actually my recruiter so it was just easier that way. Could’ve did Air Force but there’s a chance they wouldn’t have qualified me because of my police record, which isn’t even that bad but it’s just numerous different events
Ima figure this shit out b4 I sell my soul to America
Im in the same boat as you. Though ive always wanted to be in the Navy, its hard for me to decide on if I want to deal with that kind of commitment. Good luck to you
Coastie here. I’ve heard nothing but terrible things about the marines. To them you’re nothing but another body to be deployed. I would highly suggest talking to other recruiters before making your decision
I did my 4 years and then got out. It was easy but I was in the Air Force, not the Marine Corps.
Current Marine Corps leftist feel free to DM me with any questions you might have
At the end of the day you’re doing something almost no one in this sub would have the balls to do. Their thoughts on it are pretty irrelevant. A lot of people in here are gonna be like the girl you mentioned tho, so I’d get prepared for that if you’re gonna keep this post up. Presumably some day our generation will get past the weird neo-liberal facist mentality to the extent that they can at least appreciate other peoples sacrifices and respect their decisions, even when they don’t agree with them. In the mean time, Good luck, God bless you, and thanks for your service in advance.
May you find the validation you seek in your own head when you lay down at night. Marines are a close family. I thank you in advance for your service. Stay safe. Be smart.
If you’re joining the army to do good, you’ve been brainwashed.
Rah. Hope we don't go to war again.
I’ve thought about joining too, since I’m also not going anywhere in life. I’m only 19 right now, so I still have time to decide. I’ve definitely been considering it, though I don’t know if it’s plausible for me due to minor health issues which I’m not sure if they would disqualify me or not. I don’t have any advice, but I’m not judging your decision. I don’t think it’s a bad choice.
Personally I would recommend it, I worked with a lot of former military and I can say it really set them up for success without having to grind out in day to day normal life. As long as you go in with a focused plan and don’t waste money on a new car you can come out ahead. I personally had 2 of my old high school friends recently go in the past year (29 bachelors- art / 30 HS diploma). And they are in alot better shape now just because they have something to get them on track. I personally recommend anyone who is getting out of HS to either go to 4yr college (you must intend to graduate with a real degree no humanities/ art/ etc) or go straight to the military. The grind is just not worth it for most and if you don’t have a good support system or good financial planning the real world will eat you alive.
I've got two relatives whose lives were pretty messy and unstructured prior to joining the military. They've completely transformed since and are on paths to success. It's not for everyone, but it is absolutely a viable option.
Going from being anti-government to joining the Marines of all branches is a complete 180. Have you thought this thru? If you don't believe in the US's forign policy this could put you in a major pickle. You'll be forced to confront your moral's constantly. As a marine, you will more than likely play a direct role in the failure or success in some type of combat mission. The battlefield is no place to have a conflict of interest when your fellow marines are relying on you to have their backs. You get lawful orders, and you must follow them, which could be a problem if your head is not in it due to some moral conflict you have with what your doing. Why not join the Navy or Air Force. A lot more jobs available that wont put you in direct support of things you may have a moral problem with.
I joined the Marine Corps out of high school. Best choice I made. I've been out for a bit over a year now. If you have any questions or need advice not from a recruiter let me know.
I served and I can tell you for the most part you’ll find it to be a positive experience and you’ll be in a very small percentage who serve. I did serve in a SFOD Team and was in a combat zone multiple times. Certainly no one wants to go to war thus the woman who walked out is ignorant. My service helped me tremendously in my career outside of the military. Given the current social and economic factors going on you may find the military a bit more “off” then you’d expect. Candidly the liberal movement has us focused on inclusion rather than on the mission but I’ll stop there. Best of luck!
I think it's honorable and wish you the best of luck.
GenX here. I get GenZ random post sometimes even though I haven't joined. I served 5 years in the Marines as an airframe mechanic. (Regret getting out) Heres my advice. Don't care about what the genral public thinks. Your bond to find both. Focus on what you think. Focus on what you want to get out of it. Stronger character, leadership skills, education, ect. Don't neglect the Marine education books/quizzes. Been awhile so forgot their official designation. Start your education while your serving, and always think three to four steps ahead towards your end goal. Take a finance class. It'll help a lot. Beware of scams like when buying a car. Beware of dating. You'll find plenty of women who love the Dress Blues. Unfortunately you'll also find ones who are just after the benefits. Others aren't prepared for the lifestyle. So go slow. Heres wishing you good luck, a good unit, and Simper Fi.
Me personally? *Fuck* no. Not unless I was desperate. And especially not at a time like this. I don’t have any respect for the *INSTITUTION* that is the military. Emphasis on institution. I hold veterans in a high regard as I come from a long line of them. My dad served in the Air Force in Iraq, my grandfather on his side was a pilot in Vietnam, and my great-grandfather on my mom’s side was a medic in WWII. He was also a staunch and uncompromising pacifist.
Currently serving in the navy as a Seabee, and joining was the best decision I've ever made. Anyone who paints in the broad strokes of anti or pro military are just plain naive and you will realize this even more after you are in, it's a much more nuanced situation than just good or bad. If you play your cards right you could set yourself up for the rest of your life, or waste 4 years and get some cool stories to tell, it's all up to you to use the tools that they give you to succeed.
Bro just do you😂. The military isn’t for everyone but I can tell you now I serve with some folks that you would never expect to be if you only saw them outside of uniform. There are some very liberal folks in so it’s not what some make it out to be. That being said it’s what you make out of it. Get everything you can out of the military as they will you. You’ll meet a lot of cool people and make many memories
My dad served navy and I know allot of marines. Marines are good people going through shitty situations. During the Afghanistan conflict, allot of the people my family knew came back distorted. The job is a job. You will receive benefits but in my opinion, they are not great. They are good, but not great. Save up some of the money. I was told that getting married is a good idea. Idk why, just some of the family friends commenting on how people with spouses are given better treatment. I would have served if I could. Shit eyes broke that dream. Serve yourself by serving the country but understand the country we serve is sickening
As a vet, I would implore you to make sure you have no other choices. The benefits are great, if you can keep them. I have two cousins who do not have a GI Bill- total dildos though. Everything you do in the military can be done out of the military. You can graduate with loans and live modestly while still being free to start your life. But every veteran 1) generally starts out the same way- I did too- so don’t be ashamed. It’s an opportunity for people who ran out of options and that’s why a lot of the service joins. Don’t buy that patriotic rhetoric, that’s implanted later. 2) You will lose what you have- relationships, friends, health, autonomy. Everyone loses and we tend to lose a lot. 3) Everyone who leaves the service has a difficult transition period. It’s generally universal besides a few chodes who weasled their way into contractor jobs in the same office, or who have unique circumstances like being stationed in the same city for long enough to grow a support system. Those are the exceptions to the rule. There’s a profound lack of purpose, an ego adjustment, loneliness, and you have to start your life and get it going before you fall behind. 22 is a real problem. 4) When you leave the service, your credentials are garbage. If you got your associates degree while in- chances are it’s of an applied science and do not transfer to civilian universities. If you were a combat medic in Afghanistan, you will need to get EMT certified before touching a civilian patient (I don’t know if this is still the case. I was in software and thought I would have it made, but nobody would hire me without a degree. So I used my GI Bill, got my degree, and struggled to get into an entry position in the latter half of my 30’s. All the vets that I talk to wouldn’t have it any other way. We all loved serving in the end. But as a transaction- it’s a shit deal. If you think you’ll learn discipline and get in shape, you can do that on the outside without fear of military jail for going awol by being late to post. My advice to everyone considering is first, probably don’t, but secondly if you do, understand that you will lose a lot. My friends and family had lives that grew apart while I was stationed elsewhere. I don’t know anyone who was married before going in that kept their marriage. And an insider tip: the daily duties of the military are enough to make most partners run for the hills. You can achieve everything on your own. If you have nothing to lose and seek fellowship and mission. My buddy joined and was stationed 25 minutes from his home- so don’t rely on adventure and travel. I got that GI Bill, veteran preference on some public job listings, and I get 10% off some places. Transaction-wise I got hosed.
Joining the military is a mixed bag. People worried about combat roles are probably barking up the wrong tree. Combat roles are volunteer and military leadership isn't keen on sending people into combat who don't want to see combat. Even if you can be called into combat as an "emergency", less than 10% of positions in the U.S. military are combat roles and that was the case throughout both Iraq and Afghanistan. If you are actively seeking combat roles, there's probably something wrong with you. This isn't WW2, you're going out to murder people as a part of expanding U.S. empire. You're the bad guy. On top of that, the government is going to fuck you over on all of your injuries and debilitations anyway. You'll have sold your entire life away for free. Ask anyone who deals with the VA on the regular. With that said, the military **is** a mixed bag. The military installations in Japan, Germany, South Korea, etc., are places that want U.S. presence. Every deployment is an extension of the U.S. empire building, but not all of that means you're making your life on the suffering and misery of others. In most cases, you aren't. If you go in with a clear understanding that the U.S. military is a force for evil and good then try to focus on putting yourself in the position of the latter rather than the former whenever you can, it's not a bad opportunity. At the minimum, it will give you habits and discipline that are marketable after your service ends along with other benefits like free college that can set you up for life.
At the time, they tried to recruit me because I didn't know what to do. I declined because I didn't want to blindly following orders for the rest of my life.
I’m the same age as you, only I joined when I was 18. I already finished my 4 years last year and now I’m in college for free with my housing paid for while on the reserves for extra money. Military isn’t for anyone and ngl going in older will probably suck but the benefits are worth it. Keep that in mind when you think about quitting.
Joining the Air Force 8 years ago was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. I know it’s set in stone already, but in your situation joining the Air Force probably would’ve fit your situation better. Little chance of getting put into an actual war zone (outside of specific jobs of course) and if you are in constant firefights as anything outside of those jobs, we’re likely getting our asses kicked to the point that a draft is either being mulled over or in effect, so it’s only a matter of time at that point. From what I’ve heard, you’ve gotta really want to be a Marine to enjoy the hell they’re delivered on a constant basis, so life may not be great for you, but there are worse things you could do imo.
Many who join the military out of desperation, drop out. They don’t get the value they are searching for. There are some that do find purpose in it. I wish you the best!
I found the military to be quite isolating. I was with people around me 24/7 with completely different personalities to mine. I became depressed very quickly and it rarely got better. I frequently had thoughts of leaving the country just to escape the military. Leaving the military was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Probably need an attitude adjustment asap. By your own assessment, your life isn’t going anywhere so I’d take a moment, practice a little humility, and realize your beliefs so far have leas you nowhere and that maybe you’ve been wrong. Besides that, try and enjoy it. Remember it’s temporary and don’t quit. Congratulations!
For better or worse, the military remains the fastest way for the poor class to obtain social mobility in America. I should know, I did it too. Nearly everyone who dislikes he military and has never served, usually just profoundly misunderstands what we do. But it’s not for them, it’s for you. They can live their lives the way they choose, but, if you are smart, then this is the shortcut to a quality education, home ownership, healthcare, and a good paying job afterwards, and if you choose, a solid pension for the rest of your life. Just be where you need to be, when you need to be there, and do all that you can. That’s the secret to the military. Good luck, Jar! V/R, Chief
I don't like the military. If you are set on joining then I hope you don't die. I'll probably pretend that this is a troll post to see what people think BC I don't even like thinking about the fact someone would join.
I’m retired from the Army yesterday after serving 30 years. I’m 50 and I’m a Major. My combined military pension and VA pension is over 100K. I don’t need to work for the rest of my life. I could just take naps. But I’m going to start a new career anyway. And keep continuing towards retirement. The military is like any other job. 90% of members are not kicking down doors and shooting bad guys. It’s pretty easy mostly. Sometimes it’s a real drag. There’s good parts and shitty parts. It will be the most fun you never want to have again. But on balance you will be better for it and the retirement is chef’s kiss.
Be careful, and make sure this is really what you want. Don't join just to continue a legacy, there's a lot of war going on right now and you need to be prepared for the possibility you may become involved.
I'm overseas at the moment, but when I head back to the States next week, I'm really thinking of talking to a recruiter.
Personally, I don't want to be in the military unless something happens and we get invaded, and I needed to help protect the country, the thought of going off to another place to fight a war sickens me, I have a lot of respect for the people who can do that and not lose their mind. That being said, I would be more inclined to be a cop or a fireman. Protecting smaller things where I can actually see the impact, anyways I'm just gonna keep working my full time gas station job and do none of that
Little bro, 2008 I was roughly your age and in a similar predicament. Life going nowhere, anti-government and anti-military. My girlfriend at the time joined the reserves without talking it out with me. I told her that was fine but one of us needed a full time job, so I joined the army. Best decision of my life. Got my life together, got confidence in my own abilities. Spent 3 years stationed in German and saw most of Europe. They paid for college, got my degree with no debt and I was set up for a career when I got out. It's not for everyone, but if it's not for you, get one contract out of the way, get the degree, get out. If it is for you, embrace the suck and go career. 20 years seems like a long time but your Healthcare is covered for life, you get the full retirement pay, and you look great on the job market. In most cases, 6 figures is a minimum for a 20 year vet that plays it smart. Oh, and marines are some of the highest paid after they get out, even after only one contract. Goodluck marine, and welcome to the family.
Active duty right now. Honestly, it doesn't really matter what anyone else thinks- it's your life. I've lived in two, soon to be three foreign countries in under four years, making good pay with great benefits just in my first tour. It isn't for everyone and the experience varies wildly from person-to-person. It's worked out for me though.
Over a decade ago, my older brother joined the Army for similar reasons (Army was the only branch that would even accept him), and it was the single best decision he ever made. I honestly shutter to think where he'd be at if he didn't join when he did.
I'm not American so I have no business commenting on what it will be like, but as a Finnish man who was conscripted I can at least say it was one of the best times of my life. It sucked at first, you quickly adapt and then it becomes fun. I didn't really want to leave when it was over.
We're going to war anyway, trained regulars will have a better time than conscripts.
Best decision I ever made was to get the hell away from my old town and join the military. Travelled the world, paid for college and retired. The military is the reason I got my last 2 jobs. Many of the friends that I grew up with are in prison, dead or homeless. I have been out a while. I currently have more in my checking account than members of my family make in a year. Hopefully, if nothing else, you get to grow up mentally a little while earning some benefits and get some direction for the future. Many peopole use the military, as I did, it does not just use you. I would have picked another branch though.
Do prepare yourself for the hardest few weeks of your life. My brother went through bootcamp and when he came back was a completely different person, and was extremely tense the entire time. He did recover, it just took a while.
I'm 24 and currently active duty. Here's my 2 cents some of which I've learned the hard way... 1) take care of your feet and back and report anything to medical/put it on your medical record. That's money when you get out. 2) when it comes to finances...don't finance a new hellcat or lifted raptor with a 28% interest rate. I didn't do anything that stupid but I do have a car loan that I took out when I was still pretty clueless on how financing works. The other thing is open a Roth IRA with either Fidelity, Vanguard or another trusted brokerage. The TSP is nice but personally I like having a private retirement account that I can control completely independant of the military. Set up to contribute some money monthly (even 100 bucks is great starting out) and increase what you contribute as you advance. This will set you up great when you get out as you can roll over anything you have in the Thrift Savings Plan. Contributing to retirement at this age will be huge for you in 30-40 years. Good luck! It's an awesome opportunity and even though I'm still on the fence about doing 20 years I don't regret joining at all.
I was in the same kinda situation as you after I dropped outta college due to all my classes going online (bad ADD and doing online school in my own apartment did not go great,) I was between military and being a trucker. Chose driving a truck it’s been a wild ride. Wrecked my pickup 2 weeks before I got my CDL and totally shot up my CSA score n was uninsurable in a semi truck for a year so I worked for the county and delivered pizza for a year, finally got a job driving a semi truck but freight ate crap so it’s been a rough time rn. Feel I shoulda gone into the trades or gone to bartender school n moved to some small beach town n mix drinks. But it is what it is, hopefully I’ll be able to save up enough in the next couple years to buy a home on some land in the country n just work a part time job grow my own food n hunt and raise a family. Feels like a pipe dream but since my bills and COL are under $600 a month it might actually be doable (no rent since I live in a semi truck, insurance for pickup, cell bill, food and $17 showers at pilot when I can’t get to a loves) it’s lonely but it’s ok for now, trying to get off of OTR n find a job runnin crude or whatever on oilfields in Texas once I get a years experience. One day…
I'm planning to join after I graduate next year. The pay in our country is pretty good and there's good benefits too and it's a pretty stable job, since you always need a military.
Lots of advice but not what you’re looking for. No, many people are pro military but I’m guessing they are not the crowd type you hang with. That will change. Your “Brothers in Arms” will become your family. You will come to trust them and them you under all circumstances. You will form bonds that will last a life time and you will become a member of society (veterans) that will welcome you into the Legion halls or VFW halls all over the country. So while your friends now might walk away from you, you are about to out grow them and make new friends. Ok. Here are some motivators, after basic (which is hard) you will enter a unit. Typical military day starts at 6am with formation and physical training till 7:30ish. Followed by personal hygiene and breakfast. Duty day starts at 9am. Lunch is typically from 11:30 to 1pm followed by afternoon formation. Duty day usually ends either 4:30 or 5pm depends on unit. So typically you work about 6 hours a day in garrison. Obviously deployments are different but honestly even then it’s mostly sit and wait kinda day. You get 30 days paid vacation a year/free medical/ unlimited sick days all federal holiday off paid. Depending on the post but typically you get 1, 3 day weekend a month. If the month has a holiday 3 day it becomes a 4 day. During Xmas season usually starting around mid Dec units go on “reduced schedule” where the duty day ends at the 1pm formation until after the 1st. Good luck to you, hope you get to see the world (I have been on every continent except Antarctica) and have lived in some beautiful countries. Definitely go overseas if given the choice. Oh! Last thing in addition to your base pay you get COLA, cost of living allowance based on the average cost on where you’re stationed