Did you have a long-term plan when you joined the military?

At school I went on a trip to Berlin, and stayed with the Armoured Sqn. It was then I knew I wanted to be a soldier. A year later I joined as was assigned to the regiment.

It was without a doubt the best decision I made.

I have friends that have never moved away, I have travelled the world. Made friends that last a lifetime,

When I joined, there was a war on.

I made out my will, packed every civilian thing I owned into a single sea bag, kissed my mom goodbye and headed off to Paris Island. Coming back was an option, but I figured: "Come back with your shield or on it." Civilian life finally caught up with me awhile later. I've been winging it ever since.

I enlisted in the National Guard as a 19D when I was 18, for "God and Country". Originally, I was only going to do "my time" and then get out. I entered active duty at 23 (51C), and reenlisted for a job I loved (81Q), and eventually went Warrant. After a bit over 20 years on active duty, I retired. To be honest it was a bit of a surprise to realize that much time had passed. If you had told me when I first enlisted that I would retire from the Army I would have told you, you were crazy. Funny how things work out like that. :)

I plan was to serve for 20 years or so & retire. I hoped to retire as an E7, but I’ve learned that in some cases I get better deals as an E6. I’m retired, happily married & in great place. All is well for me. Thank God for that. I hope everyone else finds what they’re looking for.

No, I was hungry, job less. There was no opportunity in my home town. I wanted something to help me in life. The Army offered it. I took it! I needed a job!

I joined for just one term...then kept forgetting to get out.

Not at all. Just had gotten married and needed some stability. Didn’t think I’d make it this far. My plans constantly change. I’ll let you know how it all unfolded whenever I retire in 15 years lol

Not Really, I had thought about a career, but in the early 60's promotions in the Air Force were slow. I had told myself if I mad E-4 I would reenlist. When the last promotion cycle rolled around and I was passed over again I decided to go to college instead. I did decide to stay in the AFRES and two years later I still had not seen a promotion. About the time I was ready to give up on the whole thing the Montana ANG contacted me to see if I would like a full time position with them. The only requirement was I had to join the ANG. I started to work for them in 1966 and ended up retiring from the ANG in 1991. I ended up pulling a couple of more active duty tours and retiring as a SMSGT. I have lots of good memories.

Planned on a 20 year career. Re-enlisted, but after 7 years due to circumstances beyond my control was released on a hardship discharge.

I joined the Army on a dare in 1980. I ended up staying in for 20 years. I found a home.