In need of career advice. Do you have any input?

SPC Daniel Edwards, I see my good friend and the Yoda of Rally Point himself, SFC Mark Merino has spoken, and per SOP, his words are golden. Yes, with a child on the Autism Spectrum, you do qualify for participation in the Army Exceptional Family Member Program. Participation in this program means that in the future, the Army will take into consideration your child's medical and educational service needs when considering your future assignment placements. For example, knowing that your child will likely need ongoing occupational or speech therapy services above and beyond what can be delivered in school, the Army won't assign you to a 3-year recruiting gig out in the middle of rural Montana where towns are 50 miles apart. Go talk with your S1 first thing Monday morning; they can get you rolling on the required paperwork. For what it's worth, knowing several others who have participated in this program; it was a huge factor in why they stayed for 20 or more. They felt the Army valued their family as well as them.

While the Army offers some awesome benefits, I believe if you always put your family first you will never regret a decision. Your family will be there when the Army is not. It should be your number one priority. If the lifestyle is going to make your daughter's life more stressful it may be the right move to get out and find a more stable lifestyle.

With that being said, I really respect your maturity and selflessness. By asking this question you have shown where your heart really is. I think you know the answer already. Don't let the uncertainty of the outside world separate you from the right decision. People much less in tune than you make it in this society. You will be just fine.

Glad to see you putting such care in your family first. A little prayer might not be a bad idea at this stage of the game. Say what you will about our medical problems in the military, but they are fantastic for the family in my opinion. You might be able to work with the EFMP program regarding the best course of action for your family if you decide to stay in. I knew a soldier who's wife was restricted to a wheel chair and needed many specialists. EFMP was a Godsend for him. They only allowed him to move to certain locations and I believe he changed his job. If you do opt to get out have a solid plan. The economy isn't as great as they lead you to believe and great medical care and careers in your military field might not be abundant. Take advantage of the mental health professionals and work with a MSW case worker who might give you insight on life on the outside with your child's condition. Social services may have programs tailored for your needsand situation. With all the drawdown talk here on RallyPoint it may be a challenge to make the military a career. Prayers from Arizona, brother. Hang tough and God bless. V/R, Uncle Mark