My parents won't let me join the Army NG unless I choose a job that they want. I want Infantry; that's where my heart is. What should I do?

2018-01-26T10:26:10-05:00

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 10:27 AM

2018-01-26T10:27:29-05:00

If you are 17 then you need your parents signature to join.....which clearly they are dictating what you can get. Your only option is to wait til you turn 18 and do what you want and get what you want. You can sit down and explain to them that they either sign the consent form now and let you go Infantry and if they don't you will join Infantry the day you turn 18.

Response by SPC David Willis made Jan 26 at 2018 10:33 AM

2018-01-26T10:33:38-05:00

You wait till you're 18 and sign up to do what you want. Itll suck waiting, but you really wont miss out on anything in that time frame. As NG youre less likely to deploy now than you would be 15 years ago so its not like by pushing your date back a little bit you will "miss the war" (Im sure some NG guy will mention his recent deployment, but its true) besides youre young Im sure a new war will pop off soon.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 10:33 AM

2018-01-26T10:33:42-05:00

They are just trying to get you to learn a marketable skill. No one wants to hire someone who's only experience is braking other peoples sh**t. One approach would be to sign up for a MOS that is marketable then fail out of tech school. Then the Army will make you a grunt.

Response by PO1 Don Gulizia made Jan 26 at 2018 10:41 AM

2018-01-26T10:41:01-05:00

Was one of your parents prior military? As a retiree, if one of my kids wanted to enlist, I'd have strong opinions, as well. Guess what, when you are 25 or 30, your parents will still try to look out for you. You have the option of waiting it out until 18 or you can make a sound argument for your case and present it to your folks. Perhaps tell them that you'll use your GI Bill to study X/Y/Z. Obviously, they love you and want the best for...otherwise, they wouldn't care which MOS you picked. Good luck.

Response by SPC Brett Curry made Jan 26 at 2018 10:42 AM

2018-01-26T10:42:31-05:00

There are a lot of mos's that will allow you to go onto a secondary mos in the infantry. I originally went into the army as a 45b, small arms repair. But I did so good, and got the highest GPA in 10 yrs. Next thing I know I'm going to fort Lewis and assigned to a assured support company that only did RSE AND SFSE. Rangers and special forces combat support team. Where there's a will there is a way. Just remember that whatever you do, give it 110%.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Jan 26 at 2018 10:45 AM

2018-01-26T10:45:05-05:00

My only response to this is: your parents will have nothing to do with your career. You better choose a job that you can live with, that you will enjoy, that you will be good at. This is the kind of question that a child asks, not a soldier.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jan 26 at 2018 11:01 AM

2018-01-26T11:01:16-05:00

1. Don't join till you're an adult- then it's up to you. 2. Us grunts maybe glamourous and after retirement I don't look my age- but my body says different. Got arthritis around 35- bad knees, bad shoulders, numerous scars, light skin cancer, etc. All the awards, and all the shiny things- might get me a cup of coffee at the VFW. 3. Research all the MOS's- you might find something that really grabs you. 4. If you can't live like an animal, or it bothers you to be the head of the food chain- then the Infantry is not for you.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jan 26 at 2018 11:06 AM

2018-01-26T11:06:30-05:00

Talk to other Guard and Reserve recruiters before you commit. Many opportunities beyond infantry. Also, just wait till you’re 18 and do as you wish. Be careful what you wish for.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 11:08 AM

2018-01-26T11:08:03-05:00

Listen to your parents’ reasons why. Realize that they likely have your best interest in mind and care about you. After you’ve listened to their reasons, evaluate why you actually want to be infantry. Do you want to retire from the military? Do you want to spend a few years and get out? Do you plan on going to college? What do you want to be “when you grow up”?

Only you can answer those questions, but don’t cheat yourself by not asking them. Take your parents advice into consideration and if you still want to do infantry and can’t convince them, wait till you’re 18. This is a big decision. There’s no need to rush it.

Response by 1SG Clifford Walters made Jan 26 at 2018 11:08 AM

2018-01-26T11:08:39-05:00

That must mean you are 17 years of age. If your parents and you are that adamant I'd just wait until you are legally able to make that decision. I was an Infantryman for almost 25 years and I can remember that is all I ever wanted to be also.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jan 26 at 2018 11:09 AM

2018-01-26T11:09:19-05:00

PV2 J M: I agree with those who want you to wait until you are eighteen; such that Then you can do whatever you choose. I also agree that you will want a marketable skill. But, ultimately, I want you to follow your heart. Infantry is a very admirable MOS.
Many prayers to you and for you, Jordan-
Margaret C. Higgins U.S. Army Retired

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jan 26 at 2018 11:10 AM

2018-01-26T11:10:29-05:00

Wait until you are 18. Then go Regular Army. If Infantry is really where your heart is, then the National Guard will be a disappointment to you, and later down the road you will be making fruitless attempts to get released to enlist active duty. You have many more opportunities for specialized training by going active duty- Airborne, Ranger, Air Assault, etc...

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Jan 26 at 2018 11:12 AM

2018-01-26T11:12:45-05:00

Mind your elders. They have your best interest at heart.
Seriously though lots of folks don't realize that 11B actually has marketable job skills, you just have to demilitarize the MOS and take a minute to find the correlations. Leadership is marketable, Initiative is marketable, Teamwork and exposure to multiple cultures is marketable as well as a butt load of other things if I had time to ferret them out.
I am biased though; you should be a 12B Combat Engineer, all the Infantry skills plus demo. They have Ranger and Sapper coded slots and there are Airborne Engineers as well as the Air Assault guys at Campbell. What parent wouldn't want their kid to be an Engineer.

Response by SGT Mike Stonick made Jan 26 at 2018 11:28 AM

2018-01-26T11:28:17-05:00

Tell your parents to fuck off they aren’t the ones going to be doing the job!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 11:38 AM

2018-01-26T11:38:20-05:00

Dude if your an adult over 18 then you do what you want to do. But if they are still your guardians and all that then they have a right to tell you no. "FOLLOW ME"

Response by PV2 J M made Jan 26 at 2018 11:40 AM

2018-01-26T11:40:29-05:00

My Parents think that all Infantry Soldiers are stupid and cant have good jobs and they come back from deployments all crazy and messed up and that as a Infantryman i will have no future

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jan 26 at 2018 11:41 AM

2018-01-26T11:41:09-05:00

Wait till your 18 and follow your goals

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Jan 26 at 2018 11:43 AM

2018-01-26T11:43:27-05:00

If you are 17, and not emancipated, you cannot join without their consent. If 18, the choice is yours to make. Consider what you want to do, and perhaps it is time for an honest open discussion with your parents. Their concern is understandable, you are their child. However, determining your path, is a distinction, right, and privilege of adulthood. I wish you great success, no matter your decision.

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made Jan 26 at 2018 11:49 AM

2018-01-26T11:49:30-05:00

Tell them every job is infantry first. It's what Army's do, fight. When one is deployed, there is no traditional "front line." It's a dangerous job. Crossing the street is also dangerous, that's why we teach children to look both ways first. In the Army, the finest military force on earth, people are trained to survive on the battlefield. As for your military occupational specialty, think about something that is easily transferable to a civilian profession, and also hopefully something you would enjoy doing. Go get 'em, Jordan! And best of luck! Hooah!

Response by Maj John Bell made Jan 26 at 2018 11:56 AM

2018-01-26T11:56:23-05:00

I had a Marine Aviation guarantee. Then I got the chance to command the enlisted aggressor company against a hand full of TBS Companies and the Infantry Officers course. I didn't take the time too wipe the mud off my boots or the camo paint off my face. I went to my TBS CO and handed him my aviation drop on request. I loved the infantry. But you better like being outdoors in foul weather and miserable conditions; when people that have the sense that God gave a goat, go inside.

Next time when the night temperatures will drop below freezing, but it will thaw and be wet and rainy during the day, for at least four days, camp outside without a tent or a sleeping bag. Sleep during the day with a poncho liner, poncho and sleeping mat. At night, move at least ten miles on foot in wet gear, then dig a two man fighting hole with an e-tool. No fires - EVER. If you want more... you want the infantry.

Yeah... I'm busted up and move like I'm 15-20 years older than I am, but no regrets, none.

Response by SP5 Jon Sewell made Jan 26 at 2018 12:10 PM

2018-01-26T12:10:22-05:00

You should join the infantry. That's what you want then do it!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 12:32 PM

2018-01-26T12:32:24-05:00

It’s like I tell my Soldiers weather you stay in to become a SGM or a 4 yr term look for an MOS that translates to a better paying Job you had in the Army. Anything with Computers, Cyber, signal and anything that’s technical in nature to include UVAs will be great in the Covilian market. At the end of the day the Army ain’t forever and if you plan to live long and have a family it’s better to have a Job that allows to have a great rest of your life.

Response by 1SG Dennis Hicks made Jan 26 at 2018 12:56 PM

2018-01-26T12:56:50-05:00

What the SGM said below, I signed up at 17 as a HS drop out, my parents tried their best to talk me out of it and my father was a WWII Abn Eng. I told them they could either sign me in or I would wait 12 months and do what I wanted anyway after mooching around the house. They relented and I joined and shipped 2 months later. If you are still in school stay there until you graduate, it’s not the same as it was in 77-78. My Squad leader and Platoon Sergeant made me get my GED 6 months later anyway. I did 15 Years AD and 20 years in the Reserves. I jumped for roughly 15 years of that time mostly as an Infantryman. I hurt every day that ends with a “Y”. Even though a sane person would tell you not to go that route, I would do it all over gain in a heartbeat but then again I am not normal. You need to sit down and do a rough outline of what you want your life to be and build in plenty of sidetrack time for those special life events. Back in the day nobody wanted to be Infantry. It was considered the bottom rung of service jobs in the Army. They were very wrong then and I believe today. If you have what it takes, want to make that sacrifice and can live with the pain and suffering both while you are young and when you become an old fart then go for it. If not you can always become a REMF (NO OFFENCE TO REMF’s) 

Response by Sgt Cody Jones made Jan 26 at 2018 1:24 PM

2018-01-26T13:24:44-05:00

Join a diff combat MOS then reclass if that is what you still want to do. If not wait a year no point in rushing into something you may be unhappy with.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Jan 26 at 2018 2:45 PM

2018-01-26T14:45:51-05:00

uh... recruiters have been pulling this for ages... you can enlist for whatever you want, once the GOVERNMENT has determined they have met their contractual obligation, they can do with you what they will... always room for more snuffies. having said that...

nothing stops you from flunking out of a school or volunteering elsewhere once you've finished bootcamp. having said that...

think REALLY hard about what you're doing.

take a long look at my profile pic. and i was *careful*.

the cemeteries are filled with indispensable men. and young idealistic boys...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 2:48 PM

2018-01-26T14:48:26-05:00

Wait until your 18 and go for your dream.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 3:00 PM

2018-01-26T15:00:33-05:00

Dude if you want Infantry go Active Duty. NG is nerf ball. Active Duty Water Purification Specialists are more Infantry than NG Infantry. But seriously, it’s your job not your parents. So if there isn’t another NG job you want then wait until you are 18 otherwise you will be stuck doing what you don’t want until your contract is up.

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Jan 26 at 2018 3:10 PM

2018-01-26T15:10:11-05:00

wait until you are 18 and make your own decision.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jan 26 at 2018 3:22 PM

2018-01-26T15:22:28-05:00

What kind of units are near you? The Guard will need a slot for you. That may dictate what you would be

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 3:24 PM

2018-01-26T15:24:20-05:00

No one of my family served with the exception of my grandfather who was drafted during Korea. They also objected to my career choice based on their own preconceived (wrong) ideas about the military. Bottom line: don't join for someone else, do something you are passionate about. You will be the one living it, not them. Having said that, make an informed decision, because it is a significant commitment.

Response by PFC Jeremy Viau made Jan 26 at 2018 3:44 PM

2018-01-26T15:44:16-05:00

It's very simple really... if you want something that you can take with you into the civilian world pick something else. If you want to be a grunt because of what you see in movies or on TV just know that it is not like that at all... however if you do go that route you will know brotherhood like no other we are a rare breed but we back each other no matter what.

Response by SSG Dale London made Jan 26 at 2018 4:33 PM

2018-01-26T16:33:45-05:00

I am really conflicted here. On the one hand I feel strongly that you should honor your father and mother (I am, after all, a minister). On the other hand, I really resent micromanagement.
I suppose I need more info. What do they want you to do and why don't you want to do it? Remember that as far as the army is concerned, every soldier is a warfighter so regardless of what you sign up to do (with the exception of chaplain) you will be required to train as a basic infantryman.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Jan 26 at 2018 4:57 PM

2018-01-26T16:57:38-05:00

Once you're 18, they don't have a say. Welcome to adulthood.

Response by SGT Russell Wickham made Jan 26 at 2018 5:06 PM

2018-01-26T17:06:23-05:00

If you want to be infantry, do it in the regular army. Your weekend drills will be mostly paperwork and mandatory classes, and unless you have some serious high speed leadership (I didn't see much of that in the reserves), you won't do a whole lot of infantry stuff in the guard. Active duty is infantry high speed every day. It's rough, it's tough, but it's rewarding as well. Why do you prefer the guard, if you don't mind me asking?

Response by SMSgt Sheila Berg made Jan 26 at 2018 5:21 PM

2018-01-26T17:21:32-05:00

Let the recruiter decide based on availability.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 5:30 PM

2018-01-26T17:30:20-05:00

Speaking only to USMC. If you want a guaranteed enlistment option, get it in writing. Unless it's entered on your enlistment contract you have no guarantee. Make sure you read and understand it before signing it. Some grouped options include many fields and MOS's within those fields. You may enlist for option BZ (not a real code) that has MOS's from a half dozen fields Admin (0100), Supply (3000), Motor T (3500) and the recruiter may tell you that you "could" be a specific MOS within one of those fields but that is different than you "will" be. Seldom does a contract guarantee the specific MOS or even the Occupational Field. If your contract says Option BY (not real) named Infantry (0300), assuming you make it and remain qualified you will get one of the MOS's in Infantry 0311, 0331, 0341 etc. As to parental guidance, they will have to sign for you to enlist until you are 18 so they gotcha there. What happened to you being on fire for USMC Infantry? Drop me a line if you need more detail and good luck. https://www.military1.com/all/article/318809-marine-corps-mos-codes/

318809-marine-corps-mos-codes

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 5:32 PM

2018-01-26T17:32:29-05:00

My parents did the samething i went to college for a while and it really helped later in my carrer i will always have 140 points for promotion from college

Response by CPL Julio Muniz made Jan 26 at 2018 6:04 PM

2018-01-26T18:04:13-05:00

Joint than after 6 months change MOS

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Jan 26 at 2018 7:00 PM

2018-01-26T19:00:31-05:00

As SGM Bill Frazer stated infantry is hard on the body. Waiting for knew knees now. Collapsed disk in the back, left shoulder screwed up. If I had the chance to change would I? - NO. The question is do you want to start time in Service early, then begin a different job. I was also a Combat Engineer, great MOS and went really well with my 11B MOS. First you need to ask what is your long range goal? Once you decide then you will do what ever it takes to get there and take what ever assignment required to make your goal. If you're dead set on infantry first, then wait until you're 18 and can make your own decisions.

Response by PO2 Rick Davis made Jan 26 at 2018 7:43 PM

2018-01-26T19:43:42-05:00

get in--then switch

Response by SSG Robert Zierler made Jan 26 at 2018 8:10 PM

2018-01-26T20:10:14-05:00

grow a pair.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 8:27 PM

2018-01-26T20:27:34-05:00

my main question would be why part time?

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jan 26 at 2018 8:49 PM

2018-01-26T20:49:59-05:00

PV2 J M Do what makes you happy.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jan 26 at 2018 11:01 PM

2018-01-26T23:01:56-05:00

Wait until you're 18 and do what you want. Just remember, you rig it, you ride it.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 11:07 PM

2018-01-26T23:07:02-05:00

Only way to go theirs to M.O.S in the military 11b and 11 wanna be

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 11:07 PM

2018-01-26T23:07:19-05:00

Two*

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 11:10 PM

2018-01-26T23:10:05-05:00

Don't choose the infantry cause you watched a movie and thought they were top shit. I see new people come in and get chaptered out(aka kicked out) cause they couldn't handle bullshit. You have to be sure you are ready to get your shit pushed in. Go for the infantry cause that's where boys are turned into men. And now you can say "girls are turned into woman"

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jan 26 at 2018 11:40 PM

2018-01-26T23:40:54-05:00

Listen to your parents, they want what's best for you and have decades more knowledge and experience.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2018 4:08 AM

2018-01-27T04:08:57-05:00

Your your own man handle and make your decision like man

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2018 4:13 AM

2018-01-27T04:13:18-05:00

Too bad you wear glasses, because it's going suck for you if you go infantry. If they don't fall off your face they'll fog up and you can't see anything. Some frames don't fit in the pro-mask so you gotta get inserts. I also had a hard time fitting them under my googles. Wearing frames with NODs / NVDs sucks too. I knew a guy who wore contacts but they always fell out. Some people buy the wiley-x's but some NCOs have a problem with their appearance. I probably stepped on my frames at least 30 or forty times and broke several.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2018 10:52 AM

2018-01-27T10:52:05-05:00

If you're 18 you don't need their signature for anything. And they won't be with you at MEPS where you for real pick your job. When you are at your Recruiter and you bring all your documents, they will "reserve' you a job. Be prepared because Infantry may not even be available. A list of available jobs will come up along with the bonuses (if any). And there you choose, but it isn't 100% until you are at MEPS and the guidance counselor locks in your course and ship date. I would look through the MOS list and have a few backups if Infantry isn't available. Try 18X, 19D, 12B. Or give the Reserves a look which will open 37F and 38B (but close the other combat jobs) for you, and still get 1 weekend a month, 2 weeks a year.

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Jan 27 at 2018 2:37 PM

2018-01-27T14:37:00-05:00

You only live life once. You should do what you feel called to do. So you should wait until your 18 and then pick the MOS you want. Parents want the best for their kids and you need to know they are placing that restriction on you out of concern for your safety but there is kind of a line in the sand when life choices need to be made which Parents should stop at. It's your life and your choice not your Parents. Here is another potential reason, if you let your Parents make the decision for you. You will wonder the rest of your life what it would have been like had you picked. And you might end up resenting your Parents for the restriction.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jan 27 at 2018 2:40 PM

2018-01-27T14:40:13-05:00

Well you're obviously 17. So wait until you're 18, and then your parents have exactly zero say.

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Jan 27 at 2018 4:06 PM

2018-01-27T16:06:50-05:00

Are you an adult? Man up and make your own life. If you're not an adult, wait till you turn 18, and then make your own life.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2018 6:22 PM

2018-01-27T18:22:12-05:00

Join the infantry because I did what you are about to do and I regret every minute of it and on top of that don’t join the Guard!!!! Go Active and go Infantry then you have chances to go to airborne air assault ranger and SF

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2018 7:23 PM

2018-01-27T19:23:09-05:00

I was the same way pick infantry cause i was hoaah asf now wished i picked a better job

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Jan 27 at 2018 7:36 PM

2018-01-27T19:36:45-05:00

If joining the military is a "bone of contention"...wow! What do your parents want you to do? As most commentators have already said, I would wait until you're 18.

Response by PV2 Josh Stacy made Jan 27 at 2018 7:56 PM

2018-01-27T19:56:15-05:00

Lie

Response by CW2 Robert Wylie made Jan 28 at 2018 3:20 AM

2018-01-28T03:20:06-05:00

Move out of the house. Grow up.

Response by SSG Anthony Balkas made Jan 28 at 2018 3:36 AM

2018-01-28T03:36:47-05:00

It’s up to you, you’re doing the time.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jan 28 at 2018 3:49 AM

2018-01-28T03:49:10-05:00

I'm sure glad My parent never tired to make decisions like that for Me but did support whatever I wanted to do. When I went in the Air Force I can't even tell You how many times My Dad told Me how proud He was of Me. They did their job passing on values and character building to prepare Me to make My own decisions and make the right ones for Me. I didn't pick careers for My children either and they turned out all right and it seems their own kids are headed the right direction also You have to make Your own choices, make Your own mistakes, pave Your own way in careers and life to grow into what You are to become.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2018 7:16 AM

2018-01-28T07:16:58-05:00

11B in not like the movies. You are treated the worst since you don't have a real job while everyone else is in the AC

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2018 8:58 AM

2018-01-28T08:58:49-05:00

I'm a brand new 11B, and if you have any questions about the process I'd be happy to help.

Response by SGT Stefan Humphrey made Jan 28 at 2018 9:59 AM

2018-01-28T09:59:31-05:00

I joined at 17 with parental consent ( April 1985), my father was Navy and an Ex- Jarhead, so getting input from him on what I should do in the Army was like a mouse commenting on the dietary habits of cats, it wouldn't have worked. My best advice is wait until your 18, then do what you want. But the Infantry isn't as fun as all the movies and books glamorize it to be. I'm going on 50 and have had 3 back surgeries, ortho surgery on my hand and my elbow , and am patiently waiting for my doctor to get approval to replace at least 1 knee and more than likely both. Would I trade my experiences for a softer job, never, it was the best 27 years (off and on) that I could have ever had.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jan 28 at 2018 10:34 AM

2018-01-28T10:34:55-05:00

THIS IS THE NATIONAL GUARD not Regular Army. If there is no unit near you with Infantry Slots open you don't get it, and they will try to talk you in to something else. My so took basic on the split option (I'm not sure if they still have this) as a Junior in High School. Then he decided to go Navy so he took both Basics in one year. What an embarrassment for me, I was an Army Recruiter at the time.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2018 12:28 PM

2018-01-28T12:28:44-05:00

go 11B... if you are old enough to join the army, you are old enough to choose your own MOS

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2018 12:48 PM

2018-01-28T12:48:20-05:00

If thats where ur heart is at then go active duty infantry when you turn 18 .

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Jan 29 at 2018 10:08 AM

2018-01-29T10:08:15-05:00

If you were my son, I wouldn't want you to join the Infantry either. I spent 9 years in the Infantry and all I got was a CIB. I would recommend you learn a skill you can use on the outside world.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2018 11:23 AM

2018-01-29T11:23:00-05:00

PV2 J M if it is that important to you wait until you are 18 to sign and you do not need their permission. That being said a huge part of the support system for the military is the support your family provides you so do not just blow them off but tell them what it means to you and what you want/are going to do. They may not like it but they will have to accept it at some point but try to get them to a point where they can respect it and your decision and are supportive of you.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2018 1:37 PM

2018-01-29T13:37:20-05:00

Fuck I.T go active duty infantry and you want regret I.T bc that will be your family and they will have your back always

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2018 3:01 PM

2018-01-29T15:01:59-05:00

If that's what you want go for it, at the end you will be the one performing that job.

Response by Sgt Cesario Briseno made Jan 29 at 2018 3:29 PM

2018-01-29T15:29:05-05:00

I think you should wait until you are of age if you want to do what you want. If you join and do what others want, you won't last long.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2018 4:23 PM

2018-01-29T16:23:13-05:00

Not an infantryman, but here's my two cents (as the son of one)...your military service will be YOUR decision and YOUR obligation. YOU will put in the hard work, overcome the challenges and reap the benefits and hard-won self respect. You make the call, because no one else can or should.

That said...

...Speaking as a parent, I wonder about that day some oh, sixteen or seventeen years from now when my little boy might come up and ask me to sign a paper or give my "nod" to a similar choice. Jordan, no parent wants their child to go into harm's way; it's part of the standard wiring package. No parent who served is likely to want their child to serve in the same manner they did. There's good reasons to think seriously about the risks (physical, mental, financial, etc.) before joining combat arms. I'm sure many of the infantry types here on RP can offer loads of truth on that path.

But, if after all of that...this is what your heart it telling you to do, you'll not be at peace until you resolve for yourself whether it is or is not what you want for your life.

Best wishes and best of fortunes.

Response by SGT Eric Davis made Jan 30 at 2018 7:56 PM

2018-01-30T19:56:03-05:00

When will you be 18? Also if you want infantry why NG and just wait you 18 and go active?

Response by SPC Scott Currens made Feb 3 at 2018 12:29 PM

2018-02-03T12:29:48-05:00

Explain to them that you could decide to go EOD this tends to open their minds a little more.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Feb 10 at 2018 12:56 PM

2018-02-10T12:56:06-05:00

Honestly, listen to your parents on this one. Choose a career field that is worth while that you can carry with you into the civilian world. Unless you want to be in Law Enforcement of security work, go to post high school education (trade school or college).

Response by MSG Louis Alexander made Feb 10 at 2018 2:27 PM

2018-02-10T14:27:48-05:00

My advice to you Jordan is to love your parents however, a grown man must cut the apron strings of home and seek his own destiny. Your parents are just that, parents. They will worry about their children even when your old yourself. Reaffirm your love to them and ask them to support "Your" dreams. In the long run this will prevent the hurt that all parents have when their children fly the coop.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Feb 10 at 2018 2:30 PM

2018-02-10T14:30:37-05:00

Do you have a plan or idea about what you would like to do after the military?
Set your long term goals and see what MOS might enhance your career path.

Response by SGT Richard Sprague made Feb 12 at 2018 3:18 AM

2018-02-12T03:18:24-05:00

You want to find a job that you will enjoy going to every day. One who loves the job they do will always be happy. Infantry is a noble MOS but, once you get out not many job opportunities.

Response by SFC Gary Stanfill made Feb 13 at 2018 10:57 AM

2018-02-13T10:57:50-05:00

I had a young man that all he wanted to do is drive a Tank and get money for collage...He was 17...Went to his house and did the whole speal to his him,and his Mom and Dad...Mom said does both Parents have to sign..Yes I said...She said NO she was not going to sign....When he turned 18 he went down to the MEPS and failed the Physical..Perm disqualified from all services....Stay with your heart..Do what you want to do....You will only regert it later if you don't.....

Response by MSG Charles Turner made Feb 13 at 2018 11:21 AM

2018-02-13T11:21:18-05:00

I am assuming (we all know what position that puts one in) that you are under age. IF this is the case it puts even more merit in listening to Mom and Dad! One should always seek advice on such important issues (major decisions in one's life). Not that your choice is not important to you (and THEM)! Of course it is important to you both, but the reasons may not seem the same. You want to followed the Infantry Soldier, the Brave Patriot that Protects American Men, Women and Children and stands for the American Values - That Person is admired and rightfully so. In defense of Mom and Dad they want to Protect their Child and ensure his safety and success! They have so much Love for you and have more invested in you than you may have yourself! They are putting your future and very life ahead of theirs, that is what parents do. So if you cannot agree, why not either compromise in you entering the service in a lessor role and Reenlisting in to Infantry later or waiting to join until it is more suitable.?

Again, I was assuming the situation was that you were either just 18 years old or not quite there. If the facts are different, when most of the advice is the same... "one should Not Burn Bridges" especially with Loved ONES1

~ole Sarge~

Response by CPL Mario Santana made Feb 17 at 2018 9:17 AM

2018-02-17T09:17:18-05:00

Go with what you want . It's your life n if you r 18 you r a man so make your own choices

Response by MAJ Albert McCaig made Feb 17 at 2018 11:39 AM

2018-02-17T11:39:07-05:00

How old are you? If you're 18 and still getting permission rather than advice from your parents, you probably should not go infantry. If you are still living at home with mom and dad, either follow their lead or move out. Any combat arms will teach you independence, but you have to start with some on your own.

Response by MSG James Bates made Feb 17 at 2018 11:51 AM

2018-02-17T11:51:53-05:00

If you are 18 years old you can legally do what you want. If you are 17 you have to have a parents signature.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Feb 18 at 2018 11:02 AM

2018-02-18T11:02:45-05:00

If your parents are controlling your choice wait till you turn 18 or you will regret your choice!

Response by LCpl Steve Smith made Feb 18 at 2018 9:39 PM

2018-02-18T21:39:43-05:00

Jordan look at all these Ground Ponders that are giving you Quality advice. You really need to take it under advisement , Don't rush things wait till you are an adult...I didn't join the Corps till I was 21 so you do have plenty of time to do your research into the MOS's your Parents suggest and the one you want. I wasn't a Grunt But lived ate and slept with them I was Motor T with 3/5 a Grunt unit and yes the Grunts are Great BUT it is HARD on the body like SGM Bill Frazer stated ask any Grunt that lol. when you are 30 you feel 40 lol (sometimes lol) Best Bunch of guys I ever served with but the ARMY is Different I don't know if support MOS's like mine are in with the infantry units themselves. In the Marine Corps They are that's how I know what Grunt like for the most part is like on the Body because we do direct support we are shall we say Johnny on the spot we sleep out in the field with them eat with them but yes we are not them. Not until they need bodies in a line company lol. These Men here have lived the life or are living the life so LISTEN to them well and make sure you ask all the questions you have because it's to late to change your mind once you get your head shaved lol. Not really but think of how it would look you drop out after the hair cut lol.

Response by MAJ Carl Conley made Feb 19 at 2018 5:50 PM

2018-02-19T17:50:41-05:00

Man up.!!!!!!!Do what you want to do.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Feb 20 at 2018 6:53 AM

2018-02-20T06:53:09-05:00

its your decision.

Response by Cpl Jeff Ruffing made Feb 21 at 2018 4:53 PM

2018-02-21T16:53:45-05:00

My drill instructor said, “ You can be smart, or dumb. If you gonna be dumb, be real strong cause you gonna need to be.” The infantry isn’t all gravy. Forget what you see in the movies, it’s bullshit. Forget about some loud mouth who bragged about combat, he’s a bull shitter. Those that went and done it don’t talk about it. It’s like that kid who says he’s had sex with this girl and that. He’s a virgin. If you did it you don’t talk about it. Infantry is not about glamour. If you got brains, use them. Find an MOS that transfers into the
civilian world. You’ll thank me later.

Response by SSG Terry Bruns made Feb 23 at 2018 8:27 AM

2018-02-23T08:27:19-05:00

Choose a career that you will want to learn and be good at. You are the one, that will have do the training and live with the decision of your actions.

Response by 1SG Marc Jensen made Feb 23 at 2018 9:09 AM

2018-02-23T09:09:35-05:00

Wait until you are 18.

Response by CPL Kenneth Gibbs made Feb 24 at 2018 3:05 PM

2018-02-24T15:05:23-05:00

There are a lot of jobs out there in the military. You can sign up for what they want you too if it is available at the time. Then when you turn 18 walk into a active duty recruiter and tell them you want to switch from NG to Active. They will get you released from NG and can do what you want to do. If just want something that is a challenging job look into Army Divers. There are very few of them but if make it through the training it is a fun and exiting experience. But in the end it is what you want to do.

Response by SPC Chad Lozano made Mar 6 at 2018 12:47 PM

2018-03-06T12:47:04-05:00

As the other guys suggested, do some extra research on other MOS that you may like. Infantry isn’t the only combat arms you can do. You can also be an interrogator like I was ;).

Response by SMSgt Jeffrey Hamm made Mar 7 at 2018 6:31 AM

2018-03-07T06:31:36-05:00

I assume you are 17, at 18 they have no say so just wait it out.

Response by SSG Eric Franklin made Mar 20 at 2018 4:35 AM

2018-03-20T04:35:02-04:00

Lol his parents are looking out for him in the long run . They are thinking “ hey why not do a job that you can use in the real worldl

Response by SGM Willard Burfict made Mar 22 at 2018 9:21 AM

2018-03-22T09:21:13-04:00

Don't settle for one MOS, check out many and find how they relate to civilian life, then make your choice.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Mar 22 at 2018 9:28 AM

2018-03-22T09:28:43-04:00

Ask them if you can chose their retirement home and when they tell you no and how that's not your choice you tell them your job is not their choice. You can also reclass later when that opportunity opens up.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2018 10:50 AM

2018-03-22T10:50:10-04:00

My two cents:

1) You're going to need to make your own decision as to what you want to do with your career if you choose to come into the military. If the "parents deciding" is due to your age, wait one more year until they don't have to sign anything and come in as infantry.

2) Do the infantry thing for 4-8 years to get it out of your system. Nothing wrong with infantry at all. However, long-term, you have to consider what you're going to want to do with your life. Do you want to stay in the Army for 30+ years? Then, by all means - stay infantry. If, however, you're going to seek some sort of major career after the Army, start considering other MOS's to switch to at the 4-8 year mark so you'll build up a decent resume upon retirement.

Bottom line is - your life is your own. Coming into the Army marks you as an adult. At that point, what you choose to do isn't for others to decide.

Good luck.

Response by PO1 Douglas Baird made Mar 25 at 2018 5:35 PM

2018-03-25T17:35:40-04:00

Graduate from high school and wait until you are 18. Then go regulars, if you still want to join, but Guard & Reserves get screwed the way they are currently running things. You still deploy pretty heavily, but get no support between times...

Response by SGT Roland McHoes made Mar 25 at 2018 8:22 PM

2018-03-25T20:22:25-04:00

Be a 13F. You get to play Infantry without actually being Infantry. You get to call in Artillery and air strikes, while running around with an Infantry platoon. When I went to MEPS I was all about joining the Infantry, until a career counselor that was a 13F talked to me. Best decision I ever made in my Army career. You gotta be good at math and reading a map though.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Mar 31 at 2018 5:16 PM

2018-03-31T17:16:54-04:00

Either wait until you are 18 when you don't need your parents signature, or join while you are still 17, do the job your parents approve and for your next tour, reenlist as 11B or whatever after you are 18.

But I have to tell you this, as my platoon sergeant once told me, "Artillery is the best life."

Plus, artillery always gets a ride.

Response by SGT Aric Lier made Mar 31 at 2018 7:18 PM

2018-03-31T19:18:48-04:00

go active duty, ask for airborne , ranger, air assault ,sniper school and then SFAS

Response by Capt Karlos Nordinsifeller made Apr 1 at 2018 6:52 PM

2018-04-01T18:52:49-04:00

Wait until your 18. When you are a citizen and adult it’s your call. MOS contract is very important. I made the mistake of enlisting contract infantry. Because of that I ended up staying in for 22 years because it was awesome. Had I become a mechanic I would have got out in 4 years, got a good job as a mechanic had kids and known that I was a Marine. Instead my dumb ass was a scout in the PI, a Sniper in Somolia, counter drug on the border, walked the streets of Compton during the LA riots, ordered to college, commissioned as a boot loo, selected infantry because you know- only dumb people pick a job they love. Traveled to a lot more places, shot folks got shot at, got blown up a lot, retired due to injuries and at 41 was starting a new career. You can do more with honor, courage and commitment than you can with a “good job” you hate. The thing about infantry- it doesn’t translate well into diesel mechanics or admin. But the armed forces is the only place you can be infantry.

Response by SSG Lee Kujawa made Apr 9 at 2018 1:21 PM

2018-04-09T13:21:31-04:00

Listen to your parents.

Response by SGT George Duncan made Apr 9 at 2018 10:27 PM

2018-04-09T22:27:40-04:00

they are just worried about you 11b doesn't have a lot of uses civilian life?

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2018 8:27 PM

2018-04-15T20:27:10-04:00

You are/will be an adult. They have no influence over what YOU do with YOUR life. Do what makes you happy/ what you are inspired to do

Response by 1SG Cj Grisham made Apr 16 at 2018 1:12 AM

2018-04-16T01:12:54-04:00

You're a grown man. Live your life the way YOU want to.

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Apr 16 at 2018 10:26 AM

2018-04-16T10:26:18-04:00

You should stop depending on other people to tell you what to do with your life.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2018 3:53 PM

2018-04-18T15:53:45-04:00

good advice

Response by SSG Russell Busicchia made Apr 19 at 2018 5:18 PM

2018-04-19T17:18:18-04:00

I was an Army recruiter in the 80s. I had a young man who wanted to enlist but his father refused to sign. All I could do was tell him to come back when he turned 18. He did so and was happy when he enlisted. Your parents are trying to protect you. If they don't like what they hear you have to decide what is best for you.

Response by MSgt H.B. Green made Apr 20 at 2018 11:41 PM

2018-04-20T23:41:42-04:00

I have a grandson who went Army NG infantryman. He has had no productive and/or long term job. He is nearing 23 years old. If you do not have a tangible job or are headed to college...go AD. As for the job...research first, then decide.

Response by LCpl James Cotten Jr. made Apr 24 at 2018 1:57 PM

2018-04-24T13:57:47-04:00

Look when you turn 18 you join when ever you want and do what ever job you want to.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2018 2:18 PM

2018-04-24T14:18:16-04:00

When you are 18 go sign up. They can't do anything about it then.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2018 1:18 AM

2018-04-25T01:18:43-04:00

You can always do your initial enlistment as a 'grunt', and then once it's time to re-up, you can re-class into another MOS - that is if you find that being in the Infantry isn't what you thought it would be. This way, you get the experience of being an Infantryman, and you can get a new, [more probable] marketable skill when you do exit the Service. Good luck and GodSpeed.

Response by SGT Andrew Roberts made Apr 25 at 2018 2:45 PM

2018-04-25T14:45:04-04:00

I would just wait until you're 18. I wasn't Infantry looking back I would have rather went combat arms. The day to say seemed to be better on that side of the fence for me personally. In the end it is your decision to make. I still would do it the way I did because I made real connections with my battle buddies and will never give that back for anyone!!

Response by PO3 David Helms made Apr 25 at 2018 3:22 PM

2018-04-25T15:22:34-04:00

Anyone can get into the infantry, but few are made that way. The military needs their people to be in the most suitable positions that suit the military's needs. Take that ride through boot camp before you settle on the infantry...and remember that Boot Camp is a cake walk compared to the battlefield. The infantry is a very valiant area of service, but just as important are those who are able to serve those warriors in a way that might make their jobs just a little easier. I was a Navy Corpsman (Marine Corps Medic) and I served alongside these Marines; but, although I was not on the front lines of the fray...I was able to use my skills to aide them and make sure they got home safely with as many body parts intact as possible. I supposed I was just as exposed as all the rest, but for some reason I felt safer with the greatest fighting force in the world watching my back. Though I was technically NAVY, they let me wear their uniform...Semper Fi.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2018 1:49 AM

2018-04-28T01:49:01-04:00

its your life and you need make the decisions on what you want to do with it. listen to your parents, listen their advice, but do what you think will make you happy and successful. I let my parents talk me into following a path I wasn't 100% into and I ended up miserable with my job. I quit and joined the army. Though I am making much less money, I am happier now than I was (my parents, not so much).

Response by Heather Fennell made Jul 26 at 2018 1:44 PM

2018-07-26T13:44:16-04:00

Follow your heart and become an 11BP like my husband did. He never regretted it!

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Aug 25 at 2018 8:31 PM

2018-08-25T20:31:16-04:00

I'm gonna get in trouble if I answer this, so...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 9:38 PM

2018-08-25T21:38:28-04:00

Wait til youre 18 and do what you want. Theres nothing worse than being stuck in a career you didnt pick and dont love

Response by SSG Jack Scott made Jul 21 at 2022 10:51 PM

2022-07-21T22:51:05-04:00

If mommy and daddy are going to pick your MOS then don’t bother joining. Or you can wait till your 18 and tell them to piss like I did and joined the Marines. If you abide by your parents demands then you will hate military service. It’s like when I came back to active duty and with my scores I pretty much had my pick. My wife wanted me to take a POG MOS and stay on the FOB. I said sure honey and signed up for 12B and two years later I was in Afghanistan chasing IEDs and took two IED BLASTS. Could I have taken a POG assignment sure buts it wasn’t me after 10ths in the Corps. I wouldn’t have been happy and would have detested a POG job! Don’t do it if you have to wait, then do it you can always ask for forgiveness later!

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Jul 22 at 2022 9:31 AM

2022-07-22T09:31:19-04:00

If you are over 18 you make the choice...period! You can take their advice but it is your choice tomake. If you are letting your parents decide if it is right for you then you probably aren't ready for military service. IMHO!

Response by CPL Larry Frias Jr made Jul 22 at 2022 11:26 AM

2022-07-22T11:26:06-04:00

Ask a grunt …any grunt …Army Infantry Marine Infantry Airborne Infantry …Infantry is the Best Trained to go into combat but you have to be at the Ready !!!!!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2022 12:33 PM

2022-07-22T12:33:06-04:00

You are an adult, right?

Response by CPL Jo Ann Jones made Jul 22 at 2022 1:56 PM

2022-07-22T13:56:00-04:00

Just wait until you're 18, then follow you're heart. You're parents are always going to worry about you, but they will also be very proud of you regardless.

Response by SPC Daniel Gladstone made Jul 22 at 2022 1:56 PM

2022-07-22T13:56:21-04:00

Why is your heart set on the infantry? Do you really want take another humans LIFE, or lose yours? Why do you want to be used as a pawn for your government and corporate interests? Listen to your parents wisdom. You can always change your job in the future. Peace.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Jul 22 at 2022 2:17 PM

2022-07-22T14:17:58-04:00

Refer to SGM Bill Frazer's comment.