Time Machine: Would you have enlisted/reenlisted?

SGM Matthew Quick — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 01:51:26 -0400

Often times we hear/read about Soldiers regretting enlisting/reenlisting (may just be current frustration).

IMPORTANT: Take the survey (Vote) AND respond with 'why'. If you are currently in service, what are your reasons for continuing military service?

Your responses are important as they WILL assist those considering enlisting/reenlisting.

Response by MAJ Bryan Zeski made Apr 25 at 2014 3:01 AM

MAJ Bryan Zeski — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 03:01:05 -0400

I just would have done it sooner. I was 20. If I had gone in two years earlier, I'd only have 4 years until retirement instead of 6!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 4:26 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 04:26:05 -0400

All my short term goals made when I enlisted have been met or exceeded. I've traveled a lot, learned a lot of skills that would've taken a lot more effort in the civilian world, and started college.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 5:34 AM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 05:34:02 -0400

Only thing I am slightly disappointed about is not being able to be a 68W (Combat Medic) but so far the MOS I have currently I enjoy doing.

Response by SPC Lester Johnson made Apr 25 at 2014 6:04 AM

SPC Lester Johnson — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 06:04:11 -0400

Head injury prevented reenlistment

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 6:58 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 06:58:01 -0400

I'm glad to have reenlisted. At all stages of my career I have learned new things, seen new places, and pushed myself beyond what I thought I was capable of. Best of all is the people I have met and worked with from all over the world from all walks of life.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Apr 25 at 2014 7:04 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 07:04:40 -0400

In a heartbeat.

Response by SGT John Phillips made Apr 25 at 2014 7:06 AM

SGT John Phillips — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 07:06:10 -0400

Just want to state, there is no question here. I'm assuming the question as. "Would you have enlisted reenlisted under the current administration?" Very poorly worded survey.

I would not have enlisted or reenlisted under this current admin. I feel the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, were complicated and drug out for political benefit, and I think the current ROE's are asinine and counter productive, with little to no concern for soldier safety or mission completion. Just my two cents.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Apr 25 at 2014 7:27 AM

MSG Wade Huffman — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 07:27:01 -0400

I have no regrets. I had a great career. Of course I made mistakes along the way, but I like to think I learned from each of them and grew as a leader and as an individual as a result. The profession of arms is unlike any other in the world and the experiences are equally unique. I deal with veterans of nearly every era from WWII to present on a daily basis and I only wish I had a dollar (hell.. even a DIME) for every time I heard one of them say they wished they would have stayed in, or that they miss the military! I honestly think it (service) becomes a large part of who we are.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 8:49 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 08:49:06 -0400

I wish I would have never gotten out. I got out in '99 and got back in after 9/11...and then received a medical in '03. I had only been back in the fleet for three days when our LT. decided that a 15 mile hump with packs and gas masks was in order. Since I had not had time to fully check in yet, I borrowed a gas mask from another Marine...who had optical inserts...which led for a great lesson in checking your gear before using it. Needless to say, that was the most interesting hump I had ever been on...depth perception is something I no longer take for granted! At any rate, after a couple of years of not really doing much PT, (I was a Corrections Officer...basically sitting on my ass all day)my body was hurting. I went to sick bay to get some Motrin, and the skipper noticed that I had been on light duty for 10 days back in '97 for a strained muscle in my back. This one incident led to a conclusion that I had a "chronic condition." Had I stayed in, I don't think I would have been given a medical discharge, plus I would be 2 years away from my 20.

Response by 1SG Gregory Crocker made Apr 25 at 2014 8:55 AM

1SG Gregory Crocker — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 08:55:27 -0400

The military for me, like many others, has been a very rewarding experience. Though not everything has been fun, nor have I agreed with everything that we have done as a military, I wouldn't trade it for the world. The Army has opened many doors for me and allowed for a myriad of experiences that I would've never had back home. So yes absolutely I would enlist and re-enlist again if I could go back.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Apr 25 at 2014 9:03 AM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 09:03:24 -0400

I only the regret the 3-years wasted on recruiting duty, other than that I wouldn't change a thing!

Response by TSgt Lynn Buquoi made Apr 25 at 2014 9:17 AM

TSgt Lynn Buquoi — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 09:17:22 -0400

Although service was difficult for me (93lbs, 5 feet, girl when there weren't many girls), I would definitely do it again. I learned more character traits and application of those traits, skills in leadership and support than I would have ever, ever learned elsewhere. I missed a lot of family functions, but the big picture is that I learned how to protect them and serve them. I'm retired with 23 years and I'd go back in a heartbeat. My career was invaluable. I'm very appreciative.

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Apr 25 at 2014 9:35 AM

CPT Zachary Brooks — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 09:35:15 -0400

If I could go back and do it again I would change one thing. I wanted to enlist when I was 18 while in college at ROTC to become an Officer, but my father (29 years as an officer) insisted that I not do it and had so many horror stories. I wish that I had enlisted as it would have given me more perspective on the other side, built me 4 more years in service by the time I commission for more money, more time, etc and would have given me a perspective from that side of the Army. This is why I will give my kids all the info and let them make their own decisions instead of instilling my mindset on them.

Response by SGT Rebecca Ravera made Apr 25 at 2014 10:05 AM

SGT Rebecca Ravera — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 10:05:18 -0400

I loved my job and the people I worked with. Had I been able to stay in the only problem I would have is being moved to units that didn't have the brotherhood my last unit did because of my MOS.

Response by SGT Dañiel Luna-Fuller made Apr 25 at 2014 10:24 AM

SGT Dañiel Luna-Fuller — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 10:24:41 -0400

I would definitely do it again. There is just some kind of satisfaction I get that knowing I have a group of friends that I am closer too than my own family. It is crazy to think that you can go through hell and the worst of times with a group of people, fall out of touch and when you see each other again it was like no time has truly passed.
It was harder to come home after a deployment of being away from family and adjusting than it is adjusting to people you haven't seen in years and hanging out.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 10:38 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 10:38:29 -0400

I'm a lifer. I knew I was coming in before i graduated

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Apr 25 at 2014 11:06 AM

SSgt Gregory Guina — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 11:06:22 -0400

I am glad that I have served this great nation for nearly 20 years. If I were able to continue to serve I would but due to service limitations I will be retiring next year. Obviously I wish things had gone a little diffeerently but in the end I know I did what was right for me and my family.

Response by MAJ Laurie H. made Apr 25 at 2014 11:14 AM

MAJ Laurie H. — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 11:14:05 -0400

Where's the "I would have enlisted earlier" option?

Response by PO3 Rory O'Neill made Apr 25 at 2014 11:43 AM

PO3 Rory O'Neill — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 11:43:46 -0400

At the time I wanted so badly to join the private sector and make $. I regret it. Some of the best years of my life were in the Navy.

Response by SPC Christopher Seitler made Apr 25 at 2014 11:58 AM

SPC Christopher Seitler — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 11:58:43 -0400

I would willingly go through the system again, even now. The major change I would make, however, is I would most definitely choose a different job.

For any of the 92A's out there, I feel your pain. I hated every day of that b/s job.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 12:57 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 12:57:37 -0400

I would've enlisted a lot earlier than I originally did. Even through all the b.s, the Army has helped me become a much better person overall and given me direction in life, whether I decide to try and stay in or not. I definitely would like to maybe have studied for the ASVAB more than I did when I enlisted. I would have gotten my citizenship on my own behalf, to have been able to select from more jobs. I would've gone Active Duty the first time around also.

Response by SFC Joseph Sutherland made Apr 25 at 2014 1:39 PM

SFC Joseph Sutherland — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 13:39:15 -0400

I like the man I have become. I wouldn't be here without the Army. Even though there are days that I would love to go back into time and beat myself for joining. I still would never change any decision I have made.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 5:35 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 17:35:07 -0400

It is honor for those of us who 'get it' to demonstrate what right looks like to the rest of the world.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Apr 25 at 2014 5:51 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 17:51:34 -0400

If I had not broken my back I would have reenlisted indefinitely. To me, serving in the Army was the right thing to do. My first tour of duty was from 1979 until 1988, I took an 11 year break and reenlisted in 1999 because I felt it was the right thing to do, and I was right. I was in Watertown NY at Fort Drum when the attacks happened on 9-11. I wish I was still in despite our current military situation. God bless America. Rangers Lead the Way!

Response by SGT Jason Scholte made Apr 25 at 2014 6:39 PM

SGT Jason Scholte — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 18:39:50 -0400

I tried in vain to give my VA disability back and get back in. But too broken from OEF. I would do it in a second, even now, even if I'm 99 years old, I would dawn the uniform proudly and fight for my country any day of the week. No regrets except getting injured, even then proud to have served. I envy those who are in, I can only say to those who are, stay the course, we need strong, loyal, honest and pragmatic men and women with conviction and solid military bearing to lead.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 6:50 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 18:50:11 -0400

I love what I do. Even though there are long days away from home in the field, this mission is one-of-a-kind. Bully!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2014 8:44 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 20:44:32 -0400

I am very glad that I enlisted and reenlisted all of the way til now(I am indef). However, I don't think if I had the opportunity I would reenlist now.

Response by SGT Brian Watkins made Apr 25 at 2014 10:44 PM

SGT Brian Watkins — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 22:44:14 -0400

I had a great run, and it put me in the position to take the advantages presented to me today. I have travelled the world, lived in shit holes, as well as places only people dream of visiting. Met and maintain the greatest bunch of hooligan extended family for life, and have a wonderful family now. Hell, I even think of jumping back in from time to time because now as a civilian I have had time to analyze the things I learned inside from the outside, and as a contractor working alongside Active members. I can tell you one thing, the NCO's in positions of influence today have a hell of a time ahead of them tomorrow. The new breed coming in the ranks are crazy, lol. I am sure they said the same of my cycle, but now my cycle are in the senior ranks SFC - W03. I would come back as a lowly SPC, and the payback would be brutal, LOL! No regrets here.

Response by CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2014 1:08 AM

CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Apr 2014 01:08:37 -0400

I am glad I reenlisted over and over. I was not ready at the time to take on living life out outside the military, such as buying healthcare. I could have managed a living situation. I guess the military life was for me.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2014 8:32 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Apr 2014 20:32:16 -0400

When I first enlisted, I was at a low point in my young life, as in for a 19 year old I had at the time issues that my 35 year old self feel now as trivial. Whatever the case I did enlist. I love my job, I love my country and I love my Army. That being said I will never regret any reenlistment I have done. Do I sometimes look back with regret at some thing's that I could have done with my life that would have made more of an impact on me in a self-centered, i.e. money, and a career that would have less of a physical impact on my body, kind of way? Of course. Yet through all of the ups and downs in my career, I will take it and if I had to reenlist again (I am indef as well) I most certainly would. Simply because of the contributions I have hopefully made to someone else's life.

Response by 1LT(P) Jan I. made Apr 27 at 2014 9:58 AM

1LT(P) Jan I. — Sun, 27 Apr 2014 09:58:09 -0400

Going to play devil's advocate - to be fair, considering the target audience, this poll will already be skewed. This isn't exactly the most welcoming community when it comes to any sort of criticism with the military experience. I would also be willing to bet that most posts will be positive experiences of the military - you're not going to see many people posting about regretting to join/re-up, for fear of retribution.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2014 12:47 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Apr 2014 12:47:02 -0400

I'm still unsure.... Funny thing is my Battalion Retention NCO left to go back home for knee surgery and I'm the retention NCO now (lol). Already reenlisted 2 people and it's only been a week.

Response by SSgt James Bowman made Apr 27 at 2014 3:28 PM

SSgt James Bowman — Sun, 27 Apr 2014 15:28:47 -0400

In a heartbeat. The AF offered me a nice little bonus to reenlist but I deferred because I wanted to go back to school. I wish I had joined the Reserves or Guard after my active duty commitment was fulfilled.

Response by SGT James Elphick made Apr 28 at 2014 5:38 PM

SGT James Elphick — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 17:38:54 -0400

I'm glad I enlisted, somewhat glad I did not reenlist but often wish I had taken up my CO's offer to go Green to Gold. I have to say that I did not reenlist because I felt I was treated pretty terribly by the military at large during my time in and was not about to stick around for more of that. Had things been better I might be making a career out of it or at least would have given it another shot.

Response by Cpl David Burford made Apr 28 at 2014 11:02 PM

Cpl David Burford — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 23:02:30 -0400

Tough call. The men in my family are strongly encouraged to serve. I don't regret that one bit. My time in the Marine Corps was great. In hindsight, it may have been smarter to have gone through college or a service academy, then the Marine Corps. As for reenlistment? I knew after 4 years it was time for college. Instead of reenlistment I wish I'd have known about the Annapolis or Westpoint options as a prior enlisted Marine. I never realized you could go at that point. If I had, I would've jumped at the opportunity. Glad to know now so I can help others or my sons when they serve.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2014 8:33 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 29 Apr 2014 20:33:05 -0400

I feel it is a privilege to serve my country. Especially given this is an all volunteer force you've taken the time out to dedicate (all or some) of your life to serving and protecting millions of people you don't even know.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2014 7:17 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 May 2014 07:17:41 -0400

Just wish I planned out my "career" a bit better than I would have changed my promotable status to SSG (I didn't meet the TIS remaining requirement) ;) Overall the military was not a bad deal and there are lots of days where I miss it. But I just wish that I had better mentoring and wasn't treated like a sandbagger which I don't think I was. But sure I made mistakes and had my setbacks, soldiering was all I ever wanted to do.

Response by SGT Shon D. Hill made May 5 at 2014 9:31 AM

SGT Shon D. Hill — Mon, 05 May 2014 09:31:47 -0400

I'm so glad I reenlisted after first 4 year AD commitment. I requested duty in Germany, and it was the best time of my life! I also am grateful for earning promotion to E5/SGT shortly after that 2nd term started, it was my best accomplishment :)

Response by MSG Sean Milhauser made May 13 at 2014 11:41 PM

MSG Sean Milhauser — Tue, 13 May 2014 23:41:42 -0400

If I could do it again, I probably wouldn't have gotten out after my first term. I made the mistake a LOT of initial-term Soldiers make, and I based my view of the future and the Army on my first duty station and my mediocre leadership and command climate. I ETS'd, I was out for a year and then came back in to the Army. Luckily I kept my SPC rank.

But then again, had I done that, I may not have gained that perspective and been able to use it in my current career as a Career Counselor. If a Soldier or NCO I speak with is not happy in their unit and it is their first duty station, I encourage them to reenlist for another duty station, and not base their view of the military solely on their first duty station!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2014 11:35 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 May 2014 23:35:45 -0400

Still don't know what I wanna be when I grow up, would pick military until I figure that question out

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made May 29 at 2014 12:02 AM

LCpl Steve Wininger — Thu, 29 May 2014 00:02:41 -0400

Absolutely, only this time as a sober Marine. I spent way too much time getting drunk. I would do things differently than I did the first time around.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 29 at 2014 12:40 AM

SPC Charles Brown — Thu, 29 May 2014 00:40:01 -0400

Without a doubt or hesitation.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made May 29 at 2014 5:08 AM

MSG Wade Huffman — Thu, 29 May 2014 05:08:44 -0400

Absolutely. Of course that's easy to say now since I'm already retired and working on my second career!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2014 6:34 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 May 2014 06:34:24 -0400

There are certainly things I would change about my past, but I am proud of my service and would never give that up.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made May 29 at 2014 7:36 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Thu, 29 May 2014 07:36:17 -0400

The military has been my life since I was 17! I'm pretty sure I'm too institutionalized to get out at this point ;) Having said that, despite the frequent suck that I know we are all aware of, I wouldn't change a thing. There are just some experiences you can't get anywhere else...

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2014 7:55 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 May 2014 07:55:37 -0400

I love the Marines, and would do it again in a heartbeat. I have never held a job for this long in my life...but seriously, you meet some of your best friends who have seen you at your worst and will stick by you no matter what.

The one thing I love the most about the Marines is how small it is, I have just recently ran into a Marine who was my SNCO 10 years ago in Bahrain.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2014 1:48 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 May 2014 13:48:17 -0400

Im glad I enlisted, I've met a lot of great people been to a lot of great places and experienced crazy amazing things. The first time I reenlisted it was great. I went to my choice of duty station (Ft. Carson, Colo.) Deployed with some great people twice and had a killer time. Now im coming up on another choice of REUP or get out. With the ever changing military not too sure Im going to stay in. Things are changing and it doesnt seem to be changing for the good. Im proud of what Ive done for my country and the Army, but I think its time to hang up my boots and turn in my rifle.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 29 at 2014 2:05 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Thu, 29 May 2014 14:05:34 -0400

When I enlisted, I KNEW I would NEVER reenlist. I praise God that I was wrong and that I made the Army a career. I only wish that I had been able to do more.

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made May 29 at 2014 2:17 PM

SPC Christopher Smith — Thu, 29 May 2014 14:17:42 -0400

Being in has taught me a lot about myself, I took my freedoms for granted. I would not have enlisted if I could do it all over again. Sallie Mae could have waited, but at the time I was concerned messing up my credit would ruin my job hunt. Since I have been in I've passed up a few good employment opportunies. Really one of the only positives is being able to say I traveled to Korea, horrible duty location, but great country.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2014 2:28 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 May 2014 14:28:21 -0400

The Army has changed my life for the better and has given me so much.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2014 10:20 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 May 2014 10:20:35 -0400

I enlisted in the first place for my family and that hasn't changed.

Response by SSG Jay Hart made Jun 1 at 2014 9:08 AM

SSG Jay Hart — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 09:08:41 -0400

I am a DS?DS veteran. I enlisted in 78 and too SSI during the Clinton Drawdown. I got out Because of an ASS chewing by a CSM for attending too many Schools. I was in the top 2% of my MOS. I was always taught from Day One. Go to as many schools as possible. Mind all of my schools were MOS/ASI oriented.

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made Jun 1 at 2014 9:31 AM

CPT Jacob Swartout — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 09:31:47 -0400

I would enlist again and look more closely at the MOS jobs offered. I stayed in again because the economy back at home is not going to provide the same benefits as the Army can. While I know I could find a job, it would not have been a career position.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2014 10:17 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 10:17:34 -0400

When I first joined the army it was due to the fact that I need a job so the recruiter gavel airborne and ranger but the down side was it was a cook. So four years down the road and I reclassed to become a 15R and I love my job.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2014 11:15 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 11:15:54 -0400

I should have taken the college scholarship first right after graduating high school. After completing my degree I would have enlisted. But that's not how it went, so here I am. When I reflect back though, even through all my surgeries I had and the illness I endure now, I would most certainly without a doubt do it all over again.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2014 12:32 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 12:32:51 -0400

I'm glad I enlisted and reenlisted. I enlisted because when I was a kid I wanted to serve and be a soldier and college wasn't for me at 18. I reenlisted because I enjoy impacting in a positive way an organization and peoples lives. It gives me that feeling that I'm doing something for the greater good.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2014 5:10 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 05:10:11 -0400

On the one hand, I wish I could go back and enlist right out of high school instead of waiting, then I would be retiring this year! But on the other hand, it would have been in the Navy not the Army. And I would not have met my wife and had the beautiful family I have if I had not been in the Army, so I guess things worked out like He planned after all!

Response by SPC Brian Stewart made Jun 9 at 2014 11:49 AM

SPC Brian Stewart — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 11:49:56 -0400

I am glad that I enlisted, but when it came time for re-enlistment, the time in my life was just not right.

Response by SPC Robert Myers made Jun 9 at 2014 2:40 PM

SPC Robert Myers — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 14:40:13 -0400

I would have liked to re-enlist but I had too many issues at the time. It's definitely not off the table but I need to get fit/mentally prepare/choose my unit wisely in terms of promotion and longevity.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2014 3:39 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 15:39:14 -0400

I am glad I reenlisted. I look at the Army as a mode of transportation. I got the train to get somewhere else in life and I kept reenlisting because I was not prepared to get off the train. I tell soldiers everyday to not get off the train until you are ready to and not before you have accomplished your goals for enlisting.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2014 10:25 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 10:25:30 -0400

I reenlisted for INDEF two years ago and am glad I did.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2014 1:37 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 01:37:20 -0400

I wish I had enlisted three years ago. I wanted to wait for a good opportunity to take a Boom Operator slot and when one finally opened, my recruiter didn't even put my request in for an interview saying new enlistees have no chance. I was extremely frustrated, It would have been a good experience to at least interview. Anyway I decided enough was enough, I didn't want to wait another year for the slot to open, so I took a crew chief position. Looking back I should have just enlisted three years earlier. Anyway, I'm happy I did enlist, just frustrated with the circumstances.

Kind of more on topic, it can be frustrating, a lot of people in my career field hate their job and hate the military (why they enlisted in the first place I have no clue) But I'm proud to be a part of something in this country, and I plan to stay in for the long run. It's a great community as long as you involve yourself with the right people. Cant be drug down by the negative ones. Honestly I love my job but I'm trying to get out of my shop as much as I can to do additional duties and what not, it's such a negative environment it's starting to poison me and I don't want that to happen! :(

Response by MSG Jose Colon made Jun 30 at 2014 5:55 AM

MSG Jose Colon — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 05:55:44 -0400

27 years. While arm chair quarterbacking myself, I can say that there are some things I could have handled better, but, overall, I can honestly say that it was rewarding, illuminating, and that I was able to be where history was being made. So, no, I wouldn't trade it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2014 8:16 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 08:16:22 -0400

At this point in my career, I don't have a clue as to what I would have done otherwise. Plus, I just really enjoy serving. And I don't think that the camaraderie can be found anywhere else.

Response by SFC Stephen Carden made Jun 30 at 2014 10:28 AM

SFC Stephen Carden — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 10:28:11 -0400

I definitely would have enlisted and continued to reenlist, but if I had to do it all over again, I would have done one major thing differently. I have worked my way through 4 active duty MOS's and 3 reserve MOS's. If I could go back and do it again, knowing what I know now, I would have picked one and stuck with it. I feel that my indecision and many career moves has set me behind my peer group with respect to rank. I am a 25 year E-7 who has been in two different MOS's that see Soldiers routinely make SGM/CSM pefore the 20-year mark. It's my own damn vault, so I am not bitter about it, but I feel like if I had just made my career decisions earlier and stuck with it, I could be either retiring as a CSM, or retiring as a CW 3 or 4. Most of my peers that stayed in have achieved those ranks.

Response by SSgt Tim Ricci made Jun 30 at 2014 12:39 PM

SSgt Tim Ricci — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 12:39:41 -0400

In hind sight I would have re enlisted in the Army way back then! Probably would have retired as an E8 or 9. After I ETSed from the Army I joined the National Guard for a couple years but with a wife and 2 kids I just couldn't make it with the job situaion and economy of the Mid 80s, I then tried to get back in the Army but was unable to do so because of a DUI I had gotten while in the Army. I tried the Air Force but they don't like taking retreads, Coast Guard was an option until the recruter told me that I would be at some duty station for a couple years picking up cigarette butts before I would get a rate, I wasnt really interested in the Navy, so it came down to the Marines. I am proud of my USMC service but attending Boot Camp and starting over as an E2 pretty much sucked in not being at the rank of people in my age group. So to do it all over again I would have stayed in the Army!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2014 2:58 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 14:58:35 -0400

Only one caveat: I would have extended to stay in the 25th ID to go on the Egypt rotation (this was pre 9-11), and I was also looking at going to the board and PLDC but didn't have enough time left on my tour to get promoted.

Then I would have enlisted in the Guard as a well-rounded E-5 and started college. At that age, maybe ROTC?

Response by LTC Paul Mullins made Jun 30 at 2014 3:26 PM

LTC Paul Mullins — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 15:26:56 -0400

I am glad I enlisted. I realized that I was wasting my time and some of my parent's money as I was not ready for college. I was too wound up to settle down. Since I wanted to go into the Army when I graduated, I just went down and enlisted. I figured that I could gain some retirment years and some college benefits at the same time I was cooling my jets and determining what I wanted to do longterm. I was lucky that a recruiting operations (Operations Golden Gate 1986) kicked in the day I was picking my MOS and I was able to choose from a ton of jobs. My uncle talked me out of going Airborne Ranger on the first enlistment and advised me to pick a technical MOS with a clearance and reup for the Rangers if I didn't go back to college or get out and work. I went back to college in the Reserves and returned 5 years later as an officer. Now, 28 years later I am awaiting the O-6 board results with retirement in the next 1-4 years and no regrets! The Army is not for everybody, but it was definitely for me!

Response by Cpl Michael Jadrnak made Jun 30 at 2014 4:26 PM

Cpl Michael Jadrnak — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 16:26:36 -0400

Learn more from the military than any college would every teach.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2014 7:45 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 19:45:22 -0400

While I am supremely proud of my NCOs, Warrants, and subsequently the NCOs and Warrants I led as a WO there are a few things I would change. Not mother Army's fault - my fault. A good run for 22.5 years.

Response by SGM Ron Neal made Jul 1 at 2014 8:46 PM

SGM Ron Neal — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 20:46:05 -0400

I joined the Army in Nov '83 as a means to leave rural Alabama, and to also allow myself an opportunity to change/improve my fortunes. 27 years, 1 month, and 9 days later I retired (Dec '10). I guess you can say I took advantage of the opportunity and definitely changed/improved my fortunes. I can sum it up this way, I thought about it, I did it, I enjoyed it, & I'm glad about it (serving my country)! Defend and Serve.....Army Strong!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2014 1:01 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 01:01:24 -0400

I love this job! I get to ride in big trucks, shoot guns, go on helicopter rides, and handle explosives! And, what have my civilian co-workers gotten to do? Right. SOS...different day.
If you are in the military and don't realize how good ya got it...don't reenlist. You'll miss it some day.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 3:12 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 15:12:35 -0500

After 8 years of Active Duty and 4 years of Air National Guard, I did not re-enlist when I had the chance in Feb 2004. By the end of 2004, I was regretting the decision and made a vow to re-enter Military service when the time was right (young kids, job opportunities, ect), so in Aug of 2007, I joined the Air Force Reserves and re-enlisted last year for another 4. At this point in my career, I will continue to re-enlist until I hit tenure.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 6:21 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 18:21:30 -0500

I am saddened by the way that the Gov't is treating those serving and veteran's and I am not happy that we are far underfunded and it is only going to get worse. However I have no regrets.

Response by PO2 Frank Hickman made Nov 19 at 2014 7:45 PM

PO2 Frank Hickman — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 19:45:55 -0500

If I could turn back time...

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Nov 19 at 2014 10:55 PM

PO3 Sherry Thornburg — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 22:55:28 -0500

I do not regret enlisting, even though I went through a lot of stresses that never needed to happen, but that's what happens when you have to deal with other people's children. Each command is only as good as the people you have to work with.

If I had to do it again. I'd redo enlisting. It was the right decision. Not sure my older wiser self would have gotten any farther with it than the first time, but even just five years of service was a good thing.

Response by PO1 Ronald Butler made Nov 20 at 2014 12:31 AM

PO1 Ronald Butler — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 00:31:12 -0500

My best day as a civilian was never as good as my worst day as an enlisted man. I would gladly return to duty this very day :-)

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Nov 21 at 2014 5:20 AM

SFC Vernon McNabb — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 05:20:51 -0500

I have no regrets about enlistment nor reenlistment. My only regret is that I did not stay active duty my whole career.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2014 6:22 AM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 06:22:26 -0500

I have been happy with every choice I made to join the AF and stay for almost 20 yrs.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2014 10:45 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 10:45:31 -0500

If there was a time machine and I could do it again I would re-enlist instead of getting out. As long as I knew to retire before a certain time and get my butt to this town in time to meet my wife then I'd gladly make a career of the military. I've undoubtedly made more money as a civilian but I would have been better set up for retirement had I stayed in the Navy.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2014 10:43 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 22:43:05 -0500

I wish I would have done it at a younger age

Response by GySgt Joe Strong made Mar 13 at 2015 11:15 AM

GySgt Joe Strong — Fri, 13 Mar 2015 11:15:27 -0400

Without question or reservation I'd still be doing it if I were allowed to.

Shortest answer why, the best people I have ever met have all been Military. Felt like the job always mattered.

Right now, I'd seriously have to cut weight and see about a knee replacement though.

Response by SMSgt Anil Heendeniya made Mar 17 at 2022 9:22 AM

SMSgt Anil Heendeniya — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 09:22:40 -0400

Option # 3 (or c) makes zero sense

Response by CDR Andrew McMenamin, PhD made Mar 17 at 2022 5:33 PM

CDR Andrew McMenamin, PhD — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:33:45 -0400

Considering the politics of today - I would not go into the military.