Was choosing your branch of service everything you thought it would be? Did you expect more or less?

2015-04-05T14:09:20-04:00

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 2:24 PM

2015-04-05T14:24:59-04:00

I'm satisfied with my choice, though i had to carve my own path. Had the misfortune of meeting the ever-elusive "worst Recruiter".

Response by PFC Stephens Clark made Apr 5 at 2015 2:25 PM

2015-04-05T14:25:33-04:00

Choosing the US Army was an easy Choice , My Father and Older brothers all served in the US Army throughout my life. It was an honor to serve.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Apr 5 at 2015 2:33 PM

2015-04-05T14:33:12-04:00

At first I was crushed because I did not get the branch in the Army I thought I wanted. I wanted to be a Soldier since I was 12.

I realized there was so much more to the Army than anyone really could tell me, or that I was really able to understand at the time. It is what you make it.

What decision are you trying to make?

Response by 1SG David Niles made Apr 5 at 2015 2:35 PM

2015-04-05T14:35:41-04:00

It was everything that I expected

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 2:36 PM

2015-04-05T14:36:37-04:00

I chose the army because my dad served in it. I asked what MOS would get me on the front line quicker and he told me communications. So that's what MOS I picked. I'm very glad I choose the army. I had wonderful experiences.

Response by SPC Todd Hanson made Apr 5 at 2015 2:42 PM

2015-04-05T14:42:50-04:00

I am very satisfied with my wise choice. The Army gave me the opportunity to have the MOS I wanted and career path I need when I get out,

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Apr 5 at 2015 2:49 PM

2015-04-05T14:49:31-04:00

In any other service you may get a guarantee to do a specific job. You nearly never get that in the Corps. You will get a challenge, you will get a lot of work it will be hard. But you will get to be in the company of Marines. It is one of the best institutions in the US. And it doesn't live up to everything we thought it would. No institution or person matches it's myth. But I still think it's the best.

Response by PO1 Stephen Caldonetti made Apr 5 at 2015 2:50 PM

2015-04-05T14:50:02-04:00

This is going to be kind of long. I originally was going to join the Marines, buy 2 of my buddies talked me into the Navy thru the buddy system. I thought about it, and said OK, because my old man served in the Navy. They pulled out of MEPS two weeks before shipping off to boot camp, and I was"stuck" with going to Navy. I was upset at first, but then I realized that the Navy was pretty awesome. I do not regret joining the Navy, and now me and my father can swap some fun stories about our Navy careers.

Response by SSG Buddy Kemper made Apr 5 at 2015 2:55 PM

2015-04-05T14:55:29-04:00

I got more much more than I expected. I never thought I'd make the type of wonderful friends I've had thru the years, truly a band of brothers. When leaving high school, I considered the the Marines, but Army Infantry has been a family tradition back to WWII. I think my dad& granddad may have broken my leg if I joined any other branch!! Haahaa! Met some great sailors, marines& airman thru the years, but I so so so love the Army. Miss it too. I miss my friends. Great topic and thanks for posting this! Blessings to all of you on Easter day!!!! Hooah!

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 2:55 PM

2015-04-05T14:55:55-04:00

Ever since I was a small child, I wanted to be an Soldier. I was satisfied with my decision at the time to enlist in the Army National Guard because I was a full time college student. Looking back, I wish I would have gone active duty Army.

Response by LTC Mark Maitag made Apr 5 at 2015 2:57 PM

2015-04-05T14:57:53-04:00

Originally, I was NROTC until I discovered that Ships and Systems was no fun. My friends that were Army ROTC were land navigating, shooting rifles, repelling and other adventurous things. Also, at Norwich only Army cadets could belong to the Mountain Cold Weather company...and that was awesome. So, that is how I came to the Army, and I am glad I made that decision.

Response by MSgt Chris Adams made Apr 5 at 2015 2:57 PM

2015-04-05T14:57:59-04:00

My recruiter had it easy, I walked in and said sign me up. I knew what I wanted, I knew I was ready.

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Apr 5 at 2015 3:00 PM

2015-04-05T15:00:57-04:00

Choose Army due to a generation thing! My grandfather, 1st generation born Lucken was Army, dad was Army, so I went Army. Cav Scout interest me to at the time.

Hell my son John was 4th generation Army to serve in our family! :-)

Response by LCpl Kareem Dixon made Apr 5 at 2015 3:08 PM

2015-04-05T15:08:23-04:00

First to call me, but very thankful of choice! lol

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 3:15 PM

2015-04-05T15:15:04-04:00

For me it was Army. My granddaddy was in the Army during WWII. I never regretted my choice.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Apr 5 at 2015 3:27 PM

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CPT Private RallyPoint Member a lot of times, the Army was tougher than I thought it would be, including how complex problems were, and how special the experience of leading Soldiers was. Being a platoon leader for the first time was like no other experience I have had in my life -- the newness and thrill and also the humbling challenge of wanting to climb that learning curve as fast as possible and be the leader that you know all of them deserve. The Army was also what I thought it would be in terms of some of the monotony at times, which is to be expected, since the org is so massive and units go through resets where nothing major is really going on.

PS -- I had a lot of friends in B-2 there at USMA. What branch of the Army are you going to choose?

Response by Sgt Cody Dumont made Apr 5 at 2015 3:29 PM

2015-04-05T15:29:43-04:00

joining the Marines was the best choice I ever made.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 3:30 PM

2015-04-05T15:30:00-04:00

I spoke to the four, because Coast Guard didn't have a Full-Time Recruiter at the Recruiting Offices I went to. But Army's the only one who sounded like I'd have stuff to do during my Senior Year in Delayed Entry. And the Others wouldn't guarantee me an MOS.

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Apr 5 at 2015 3:41 PM

2015-04-05T15:41:08-04:00

I am very happy with my decision to become a Marine. It was not my first choice. I was ready to join the ?, but i found out at the last min he was lying to me about multiple things.
No regrets for me.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 5 at 2015 4:02 PM

2015-04-05T16:02:27-04:00

Interesting question.

I had no idea going in, but it was a great choice... I would not change a thing.

I actually tested to enlist in the Navy, but they did not offer Military Police for new recruits (Master at Arms, at that time had to be Petty Officers). I then looked at the USAF as my buddy was enlisting to the be a Security Policeman, but my eyes were not good for the USAF or aviation MOSs in the Navy; aviation was my other option.

The Navy wanted me to go into their Nuke Program, and would not offer much else, so I wandered into to see SFC Jack Webb. He was a Combat Engineer, and wanted me to be Combat Engineer... Luckily my brother had just ETSd and gave me the skinny on what Combat Engineers really do vs. what the recruiter said... I never considered the Marines, as their recruiters were quite arrogant, and condescending about all the other branches in the office complex; all 5 branches in Elizabeth NJ.

I ended up enlisting as an Army MP, and it was the best decision I ever made.

I love the Army, but I know all branches have a purpose, as do all their jobs. I value all service. The Army was right for me and my mentality. I am blue collar type, and the Army is the blue collar work force of DOD, in my view...

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 5 at 2015 4:10 PM

2015-04-05T16:10:27-04:00

I would have to honestly say I went with the Navy because they were the first recruiter to contact me.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 4:14 PM

2015-04-05T16:14:19-04:00

I initially spoke with the Marines, shortly after 9/11, said I wanted to learn to weld, recruiter said I needed to be in the infantry, didn't make too mush sense to me, walked into the Navy, and haven't really looked back, absolutely enjoyed the ride so far...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 4:16 PM

2015-04-05T16:16:44-04:00

I wanted to be all I could be

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 4:23 PM

2015-04-05T16:23:35-04:00

Never considered anything but the Air Force. Was assigned to a job for which I was not qualified. I did the best I could and earned 2 promotions. While doing that job I took full advantage of available education and found myself selected to go to school for a degree and then a commission.

Things turned sour after Viet Nam and I was forced out.

Finished in the Army Reserve.

I loved the Air Force and planned to spend 30 years. Got almost half of that.

Still no regrets.

Response by SGT Dylan Epp made Apr 5 at 2015 4:27 PM

2015-04-05T16:27:11-04:00

I expected more from army basic training. I honestly thought I made a mistake by not going to the corps like my grandfather. However once I passed RASP I really did find a home and a place I fit in.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 4:32 PM

2015-04-05T16:32:35-04:00

Dumb luck landed me in the Navy. I wanted Army infantry, life intervened and I am glad it did. I don't think I could have accepted the Army's practices.

Response by PO1 Katharine Belford made Apr 5 at 2015 4:37 PM

2015-04-05T16:37:35-04:00

I went to every recruiter and did my homework before I chose the Navy. Having family in every branch except the Coast Guard helped me decide what was best for me. I enjoyed my twelve years because of the people I worked with.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 4:38 PM

2015-04-05T16:38:12-04:00

I think the Army was so much more than I thought it would be. I really thought it was mainly infantry. Although I am infantry I have seen so much and worked in so many areas. I didn't think the Army was as big as it was. I am glad I choose the Army. I was looking at the Navy and Marines at one point. But the Army won out.

Response by PO2 Bryan Tague made Apr 5 at 2015 4:38 PM

2015-04-05T16:38:30-04:00

I grew up to the music of Army artillery fire-my dad was a munitions test director for DOD at Jefferson and Yuma Proving grounds.When my turn came,I carefully considered what I wanted to do and weighed it against what I already knew,for the travel opportunities that I wanted,the Navy just made sense to me-no regrets

Response by Col Kyle Taylor made Apr 5 at 2015 4:52 PM

2015-04-05T16:52:20-04:00

Having been assigned to an Army post, a Navy ship, and a Marine Squdron as a member of the USAF, I would suggest that it is what you make of it. I have enjoy working with each of the Services.

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made Apr 5 at 2015 4:58 PM

2015-04-05T16:58:03-04:00

I had been set on the Air Force since elementary. This was mainly because 1. I had a lot of family go through the Air Force and 2. I love aviation.

The job choosing in the AF was what I struggled with mainly because I knew what I wanted my recruiter's supervisor had different goals in mind, like throwing me in a critically manned career field simply for that reason. Still annoys me to this day.

Response by Sgt Spencer Sikder made Apr 5 at 2015 5:07 PM

2015-04-05T17:07:57-04:00

Boot camp wasn't what I expected back in the 70's. However, after getting over the hump so to speak, the pride was way more than I expected. Marine Corps is what laid the foundation to a successful civilian career.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 5:14 PM

2015-04-05T17:14:45-04:00

I initially was scheduled to enlist in the Marines (2005). I had out of regulation tattoos but the recruiter devised a way to get me in anyways, by having me tattoo a line through several tattoos to connect them. The station manager caught onto it before my tattoo appointment so I went to talk to the Army and I'm thankful that I did. I have loved the Army and couldn't imagine doing anything else in my life right now. There are strenuous times in the Army, and long deployments, but I have loved it all good and bad.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Apr 5 at 2015 5:34 PM

2015-04-05T17:34:59-04:00

My "choices" were pretty much made for me. After doing Beast Barracks at West Point, the Docs decided they didn't like my eyes. So the choice was E-3 and off to 'Nam or Honorable Discharge. Took walking papers as I wanted to go to engineering school. During my first year at a JC, I pulled a draft number of TWO. So that meant I was headed to boot and E-1 Army for 'Nam. I did a bicep slap on that one and joined the Navy Reserve. Boot and A-School at Great Lakes. Graduated 1st in the class and did some Active for a while. Wanted to get back to school so stayed reserve. Working at hospitals and going to war for my summer vacations paid for UCLA. I liked the military so looked at officer programs. They all wanted to send me to OCS which after doing Beast and Boot I wasn't interested. The Navy relented and had me do the 6 weeks at Newport, RI in the Officer Indoctrination School. You went there already an O-1. I can't tell you how tough it was to live in King Hall with 6 other guys who were doctors and lawyers and 80+ nurses. 1976, Tall Ships for the Bicentennial, summer....

Career wise, it's always what you make of it. This one just happened to be my path. There were joys, tears, exhaustion, and boredom. It was worth it to me because I stood the watch and was able to take care of my crew.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 5:35 PM

2015-04-05T17:35:58-04:00

Joining the Army was my decision. I walked in to the recruiters office and asked where do I sign. Sure there are thoughts about what it may have been like if I joined other services, but the experiences I have had with the other Services have only confirmed I made the right decision.

Response by SPC Allison Joy Cumming made Apr 5 at 2015 5:52 PM

2015-04-05T17:52:17-04:00

I chose Army and I am/was happy with the choice. It was a bit less challenging than I expected.

Response by SPC Gary Pulis made Apr 5 at 2015 6:02 PM

2015-04-05T18:02:07-04:00

In my case it is a family tradition dating back to my 4th great-grandfather, Conrad Pulis who crossed the Delaware with General Washington, that our family serves in the Army. My daughter has carried on that tradition with the pride such traditions deserve.

Response by CW4 Larry Curtis made Apr 5 at 2015 6:25 PM

2015-04-05T18:25:30-04:00

I think the majority of us probably didn't have much of an idea about the workings of each individual branch other than the obvious...Air Force=bombers and fighters, Navy and Coast Guard=ships and other water-borne vessels, Marines=Army-like force delivered on water-borne vessels, and Army=tanks and paratroopers. It is mostly after we become involved that we really develop the ability to compare, and it is usually a continuous learning process in that regard. I spent an entire career in the Army and I'm still learning. I had no real idea of exactly what I was getting into because at that point in my life I had no real idea what I wanted to be in life and I was searching for it. I have no regrets at all over the path I took and would do it again if we were blessed with imperishable bodies which didn't age and break down.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 6:31 PM

2015-04-05T18:31:49-04:00

I never spoke with any of the other branches. I just chose the one I believed would challenge me the most. However, after my first enlistment ended, I spoke to an Army recruiter about the WOFT program. But when Kuwait was invaded, I couldn't see myself in any other branch, so I reenlisted into the Marine Corps.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 6:33 PM

2015-04-05T18:33:54-04:00

ATON... who joins the CG wanting to be the hwy repair man? But after A school I was sent to a small boat Station. LE, Search and Rescue, cool joint ops and all the fish I could catch. I kept my feet ground and changed my expectations as I matured.

Response by PO1 Michael Fullmer made Apr 5 at 2015 6:37 PM

2015-04-05T18:37:18-04:00

I knew for a long time I would join the military, and after growing up in the Air Force, I knew that wasnt what I wanted. My father was Navy during WW II before moving to the newly created USAF. After discussions with him and friends who went Navy, I did too. With their help, I more or less already knew what to expect, especially regarding initiation rights & jokes that were played on the "new" guy after reaching one's first ship. Back in the mid to late 70's ('76) things were pretty much what I expected and what I was told to expect. I wouldnt hesitate to go back in time and do it all over again.

Response by SrA Elizabeth Fontenot made Apr 5 at 2015 6:45 PM

2015-04-05T18:45:04-04:00

One of the reasons I joined the military was because I could not stand my stepfather. The second reason I joined was because I could not afford to go to college after I graduated high school. I enjoyed my time in the Air Force. As for what I expected there was really not a whole lot that I expected during my time in the Air Force. One of my older sisters had joined the Army after she graduated high school. When she found out that I had enlisted in the Air Force she was highly upset with me. So I did not talk to her for almost six months. The first time we talked after I enlisted, she noticed a change in my attitude. So she decided that I had made the right decision for me. I hope this helps answer your question.

Response by 1SG Jeffrey Bergeron made Apr 5 at 2015 6:55 PM

2015-04-05T18:55:33-04:00

The Army was the only Branch I knew about because my father and uncle served in the Army during Vietnam. All I remember is seeing is the dress uniform pictures and saying that is what I want to be. The Army was the best career choice I have ever made.

Response by PO3 David Davis made Apr 5 at 2015 7:01 PM

2015-04-05T19:01:59-04:00

Yes I was satisfied I looked at all the Branches before I decided.

Response by MSgt Robert Pellam made Apr 5 at 2015 7:05 PM

2015-04-05T19:05:09-04:00

I had wanted to be in the Air Force and fly Jets since I was young. When I got glasses in 5th grade my dreams were crushed. But I still had a love affair with anything that flies. After 2 years in college and doing quite horrible, I knew I needed a change. I went to the Air Force recruiter and said, what can you do for me. Its been 23 years since then 2 since my retirement, and I never regretted it. I still have a passion for anything that flies, but now I just read the history and hopefully record it for others with similar tastes.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Apr 5 at 2015 7:05 PM

2015-04-05T19:05:14-04:00

I really think I expected less until I went to my specialized traing, WOW, I was not ready for that, but survived where so many failed. After that really nothing much surprised me and I did love it!!!!

Response by SGT Allen D'Aoust made Apr 5 at 2015 7:11 PM

2015-04-05T19:11:09-04:00

I had no idea what I was getting myself into but I would never change my branch or MOS. Besides my wife and children, the Army is the best thing that ever happened to me, its made me the man I am today.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 7:29 PM

2015-04-05T19:29:07-04:00

It was what I thought it would be, however it's changes now almost twenty years later...had I known I may have chosen differently

Response by PO2 Mark Saffell made Apr 5 at 2015 7:30 PM

2015-04-05T19:30:59-04:00

I love my choice. How many are lucky enough to serve onboard the USS Enterprise!!!

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Apr 5 at 2015 7:36 PM

2015-04-05T19:36:30-04:00

I chose ARMY due to the high quality of training in Electronics. Many people told me AIR FORCE or NAVY would be better but I went to Redstone Arsenal and audited a few classes. After I got out I spent 31 years in Data Center IT and made serious money every year. I retired early and am very happy.

Thank You,

Rick

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 7:42 PM

2015-04-05T19:42:29-04:00

I expected more from the Marine Corps, left very disappointed and in someways embittered. As for the Army, I had lowered my expectations due to the Marine Corps experience and was surprised by it. I don't like to get into the which service is better because they are all extremely good at what they do. they have separate missions and do those well. Benefits are somewhat the same because they are all part of the government. I will have to say what sets the Army apart from the other services is the amount of opportunities for the individual. Hell, the Air Force has an actual community college...

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Apr 5 at 2015 7:43 PM

2015-04-05T19:43:22-04:00

The recruiter didn't have to talk me into anything. I think I surprised him when I walked in. He asked if he could help me, I told him I wanted to join the Army. I didn't realize that most people who walk into a recruiters' office haven't already made their decision.
Once I had taken the ASVAB, he did ask if I really wanted to do this -- join the Army and go for Spec Ops -- given my score. I definitely had other options.

I have yet to regret for a moment joining the Army.

Response by A1C Michael Reedy made Apr 5 at 2015 7:54 PM

2015-04-05T19:54:24-04:00

I could not ask for a better experience than I got, although I dis not get my full 6 years, I still got more experience from deploying and serving than any other job I've held in my time in the workforce.

Response by MSgt Steve Miller made Apr 5 at 2015 8:19 PM

2015-04-05T20:19:16-04:00

I’m third generation Marine Corps, so it was easy for me to select a branch. Was it all I expected? Yes…and then some! Naturally I gained much knowledge from my father over the years, and when he heard what I was planning he went into much greater detail of how my life would change. Some differences were noticed right from the first day when I stepped off the bus and onto the yellow footprints. That’s to be expected, considering the gap in service time from my father’s last day to my first day.

I’ve been retired 15 years, and for sometime following that last day of service I missed it terribly. Never regretted my decision to join, its without a doubt one my life’s greatest experiences. The last two things I recall my father telling me before I left for boot camp:
1) Never volunteer for a working party, you will most likely wish that you hadn’t.
2) Remember that it’s an honor and privilege to serve. Don’t screw it up!
He was of course correct on both accounts. Happy hunting folks!

Response by CPO Sam Gilliland made Apr 5 at 2015 8:44 PM

2015-04-05T20:44:51-04:00

Wanted to join the Marines, they said go back to school.....I know right! Went down the line and Navy was happy to allow me to chip paint. Little did I know back then, 5 years later I would be with a Marine Infantry unit as a Corpsman. I put everything into the Navy, and it gave me everything back. Great family (wife issued in my sea bag), Masters degree that I did not pay a dime for...and still have my full post 9/11 bill, and lifelong friends. Yes I would not of changed anything!

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 9:09 PM

2015-04-05T21:09:44-04:00

I have had the opportunity to be a part of two branches. Both the Army and Navy have provided unique opportunities and experiences. I don’t know if I could ever say either was exactly what I expected, but I can easily say both are much more than I expected.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 9:27 PM

2015-04-05T21:27:31-04:00

I am very happy I ended up in the army. Initially I wanted to become a navy corpsman but my recruiter kept pushing me away from that job and trying to get me to become a nuke. I told him no and he refused to do my paperwork. So I walked over to an army recruiter, told him I wanted medic, 4 months later I was in BCT. At the time I had very little knowledge of the army but know that I am in I love my branch.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Apr 5 at 2015 9:31 PM

2015-04-05T21:31:31-04:00

@ Cadet LT Ruben Vargas. My first love was always the Army. Unfortunately my school's ROTC Battalion (Liberty Battalion-Northeastern University) did not impress me so I wavered a little bit and actually walked into the Marine Corps recruiters at one point. Long story short, I did the civilian thing for a bit, then came in enlisted and eventually got my OCS packet. I have absolutely no regrets. I love my choice of the Infantry. It is, among the other combat arms branches the only field in which you have direct contact with an opponent equally vested in your failure. I have spent countless cold nights, especially here at Fort Drum, out in the field wondering why God hates the Infantry so much but at the end of it all you are in a brotherhood of men (and perhaps soon to be women) who willingly chose a field that pits their mettle against the others of all our adversaries. No other feeling like it. Out on a patrol or in direct engagement with the enemy you are with with your brothers and it is up to each of you to take the best you get from the enemy and pay it in kind and more. There is no more powerful a way to feel alive than to experience other's attempts to deny you that right. Truth be told, that is why I picked the Infantry. Not for some thirst for glory but to know that whatever test I faced, I had my men with and around me to face it head on. Of course, now I am on Staff where all hope goes to die. Climb to Glory.

Response by TSgt William Lounsbery made Apr 5 at 2015 9:33 PM

2015-04-05T21:33:05-04:00

When I joined the Delayed Entry program for the Army in 1982, I had already spoke with the recruiters of the USMC, and Air Force. The Army gave me a kicker for the VEAP, thus giving me an additional $12,000 for my post secondary education. I eventually cashed in my contribution to the VEAP, when I was married and expecting our first child. I enjoyed my career in the Army and was at the 10 year mark when I was given a hardship discharge due to family issues at the time. In 2000, I joined the NY Air National Guard, to increase my retirement points, but I was accepted into the AGR program and began building my active duty so I could retire in 2010. I miss the camaraderie and the mission. I made the most of my duty assignments by experiencing the local culture and pushed to further my career by seeking more training and receiving my Bachelor's degree while on Active Duty.

Response by SSG Everett Wilson made Apr 5 at 2015 9:41 PM

2015-04-05T21:41:12-04:00

I went down to enlist in the Air Force. The Army Rec. told me that the Air Force Rec. was on leave, however, if I wanted to enlist he could do the paperwork, which was interchangable between all 5 branches. I went over to the College to get some paperwork, came back and discovered the Air Force Rec. was back in the office. The Army was low on rec.
I enjoyed my time in the Army, got to go to places I couldn't see. Did get to spend a year with the Air Force, during Operation Armored Falcon.
During my 1st tour in Germany, I was the only school trained clerk for almost 3 1/2years and I got to be very spoiled by the Bn Cdr.
I expected less but got a lot more, my duties included a Work Order Clerk, TAMMS/PLL, Asst Driving Instr., Maintenance Logistical NCOIC, Asst Supply Sgt, Medical Supply Sgt, Transportation NCOIC, Supply Operations NCOIC, Mobility Sgt, OCS Regimental Quartermaster (Supply Sgt), Local National NCOIC, Badge Office NCOIC, Asst S-4, Asst S-4 for Training Region G (National Guard), and Unit Supply Instructor/Drill Sgt.
Not bad for 30 years

Response by SPC Donald Tribble made Apr 5 at 2015 9:48 PM

2015-04-05T21:48:22-04:00

I was let down in my enlistment and didn't reup. I was assigned to a field medical unit with no peacetime mission. I spent my time in the S-1 as the Publications Clerk and later as the Mail Clerk. I did my MOS, Combat Medical Specialist, for one three month rotation in Medical Proficiency Training at the hospital. I did "grass shack" (grounds maintenance) and lots of rent-a-crowd (formations for General Officers, Appointees and Dignitaries) but very little of my on duty time was spent being a Medic. I used my off duty time to take the Maryland State EMT course and volunteered in the Ambulance Section at the hospital. I taught First Aid/CPR and was on the team that put together the EFMB preparation packet, but then was denied being able to compete for the badge. When it was time to reenlist the Retention NCO, a lifer E-6, wasn't interested in doing his job and just wanted me to sign the line. I got out because I had no intention of spending 20 years being an 91Anything. I realize this doesn't sound particularly positive, I did meet some good folks and was able to do some interesting things. If I had been assigned to a combat unit or a hospital I probably would have stayed in, but given my initial exposure I wanted to get out and pursue my medic career outside of the Army.

Response by SGT John Gabler made Apr 5 at 2015 9:49 PM

2015-04-05T21:49:43-04:00

It was Army or USMC. The misguided children would not guarantee my MOS. I scored very high on the ASVAB so I kinda of had my choice of jobs.

Response by PO2 David Hagwood made Apr 5 at 2015 9:54 PM

2015-04-05T21:54:26-04:00

It's exactly what I thought it would be, even better. I always like to experience something new. I have done different jobs, been to different places, and on different kinds of ships. I came in to the Navy to get out of the monotony of living life doing the exact same thing every day. I've done simple jobs such as driving a fuel truck, and I've done tough jobs such as being a being a Plane Captain. Right now, I'm a Workcenter Supervisor for a 3M/Damage Control Petty Officer shop on CVN-77. I've been to some interesting countries, including living in Japan for 2 years. I love that place! In less than a year, I will be off to my next command. Time for shore duty!

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Apr 5 at 2015 10:17 PM

2015-04-05T22:17:11-04:00

I was actually going to go to the Air Force but when I waked into the recruiters building, their office was at the end of the hall. The Army's was at the beginning. Someone says "hey you need some help?" I never made it to the end of the hall.

Response by Cpl Jim Price made Apr 5 at 2015 10:26 PM

2015-04-05T22:26:50-04:00

Being in the Marines was awesome! If I was 18 I would do it all over again. It was the right choice for me coming out of high school.

Response by SSG Byron Napoleon made Apr 5 at 2015 10:35 PM

2015-04-05T22:35:59-04:00

It was a satisfactory decision. I had been a fan of Audie Murphy since I first saw his movie... "To Hell and Back". Since then, I had always wanted to be in the Army, even though my island was liberated by the Marines during WWII. All the glorious stories of the Marines bravery told by my uncle who was 17yrs old then did not meet the level of Audie Murphy legacy. As far as basic training goes, I am indifferent because I was well over 30 at the time of enlistment so I was at different maturity level and the career change was easy for me. Besides the basic training, it is difficult to assess the difference because there is no first hand account other than hearsay. But I was proud of my time as a soldier.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 10:46 PM

2015-04-05T22:46:16-04:00

No. The Army was not everything I thought it was going to be. That doesn't mean I am not happy with my experience. The best thing about the Army that I have experienced is I have been around the world twice and been to several countries I would have never even thought I would have gone.

It's been a tough 9 years so far but I'm not packing it in any time soon. The Army has provided me with opportunities and experiences that most people only dream of. I love it and I wouldn't change it.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 10:51 PM

2015-04-05T22:51:32-04:00

When I was a young boy growing up in North Carolina, I saw my Uncle come to visit us. As I saw him get out of his car in his 82nd Airborne Division Class A uniform, I knew then, I was going to be a Paratrooper. I did entertain the other branches, but I knew I wanted to be in the US Army. Unlike the other branches, I got to choose my job. I really liked that. Even on my bad days, I remind myself, I made this decision. I do not harbor any ill feelings of the other branches, but the Army was my calling. I haven't even looked back since. Glad I joined and spent 13+ of 19 years in the 82nd Airborne Division too.

Response by SFC Angel Aponte made Apr 5 at 2015 10:53 PM

2015-04-05T22:53:31-04:00

Choosing the Army was a legacy, my entire family are Army vets. Since my childhood dqys i always said i wanted to be a Soldier. I was happy and proud of my career i found everything and more than i expected from. Im still very proud of my branch. Army all the way.

Response by SFC Bryan Clark made Apr 5 at 2015 11:04 PM

2015-04-05T23:04:12-04:00

gave all the branches to a listen to...but every branch put down all the others, except the Marine Corps. My recruiter just talked about the Corps and he sold me...the army recruiter bashed him later that day ...solidified my position. Semper Fi!!!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 11:14 PM

2015-04-05T23:14:24-04:00

More, like all civilians I thought I would be limited more to what my job description said. Army is big green but that means plenty of different stuff to do. After numerous deployments, one of my former medics finally got to do his cush time in a hospital and then went CA.

If I could change one thing more living in wild and less tied to bases. I want to chase the enemy for days and get resupllied by helicopter. I didn't get enough. I find the chase to be enough of a motivator to overcome the suck.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Apr 5 at 2015 11:20 PM

2015-04-05T23:20:39-04:00

CPT Private RallyPoint Member, I didn't feel like I had many options when I enlisted on 9AUG69! With respect to expectations, I think that's really in the hands of the service member. I like to think I made the best of my situation, and I think, for the most part, that's the way it is for others as well.

Response by SSG Richard Hackwith made Apr 5 at 2015 11:40 PM

2015-04-05T23:40:03-04:00

I went to the recruiter and told them "I want armor Europe" they said no problem. I got what I wanted, although I did have to spend 6 months in ground surveillance radar when I first got to Germany, but I made it back on the tank.

I later became very disillusioned with politics and ass kissing in the national guard and left short of retirement. I sometimes think I should have stayed regular army.

Response by CW3 Craig Linghor made Apr 6 at 2015 12:25 AM

2015-04-06T00:25:03-04:00

I puke on boats and planes so I thought I'd better keep my feet firmly planted on the ground. Go Army!

Response by SGT Robert Roadifer made Apr 6 at 2015 12:30 AM

2015-04-06T00:30:14-04:00

I got everything that I expected to get out of joining the Army. The only thing that I did not care so much for was the hurry up and wait game that went on. But from what I understand the other branches have the same issue.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Apr 6 at 2015 12:48 AM

2015-04-06T00:48:22-04:00

I enlisted in the Navy, because of the Nuclear Power program. I was a scientist and had been working in Nuclear Power research in college, so this was a perfect fit for me.

In hindsight, there are a lot of amazing things that all the services and all the branches of each service do, but for what I knew at the time, it was totally the right move...

Response by CPL Corey Aldridge made Apr 6 at 2015 1:16 AM

2015-04-06T01:16:14-04:00

I don't think it really was a decision.... Having come from a family with a long proud history of military service it was a given that I would serve. Both my Dad and my Grandfather were Navy so I knew listening to their stories that NOPE...I also knew that the air force was not even close to what I wanted. So that left the Army and the Marines.... Well cannon fodder I am not. Lol I am proud of my service in the Army and have never regretted it.. GO ARMY!

Response by Cpl Lorne Houle made Apr 6 at 2015 1:34 AM

2015-04-06T01:34:12-04:00

Well, I thought it was a hard decision to make and it took longer to join than I expected. I also didn't think I would see my first dead body until after boot camp but that changed during the crucible. If I could do it all over again, I would!

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 1:38 AM

2015-04-06T01:38:09-04:00

It was easy enough for me. I initially thought I wanted to go Air Force, until I started seeing the smug superiority of some of the other kids enlisting Air Force and how they were "too smart" to be in any other branch. Keep in mind, those are just high school idiots talking; I'm sure they got knocked down a peg and shown what was what when they got to basic. But that turned me off of that branch, and I decided to look at it from a practical standpoint. To me, the solution was clear. The Marines are ferocious fighters, but they can't operate without someone else ferrying them to the fight. The Army can occupy a territory and can essentially do any task... eventually; and they also have to get the Air Force to ferry them around, or take a commercial plane to go to war. The US Navy can operate with impunity 12 miles from the coast of any nation, under nuclear power which can sustain them almost indefinitely; and when it comes time to execute a mission, be it force projection with a tomahawk, or insertion of DEVGRU, it happens almost instantaneously. That kind of quick response and immediate action was something I wanted to be a part of. Started out as a nuclear propulsion operator, ended up as a pilot of a nuclear asset. Not the path I planned, but it's been pretty great nonetheless.

Response by PV2 Violet Case made Apr 6 at 2015 1:39 AM

2015-04-06T01:39:26-04:00

In my situation I am glad I joined the Army and the training was all that I expected and then some because it made me the strong person that I became for many years. But I did expect more from the Army in way of protecting its soldiers from the toxins that they made and used. But each day I faced a new battle in health and life I always took my mind back to the days when my drill Sargent would rub one of his fingers and thumb together saying this is the smallest violin playing my heart bleeds for you now soldier learn to adapt and over come it. So many days I would over do it to be strong. Now I am a broken mess and sick from toxins that I did not expect the military would do to its soldiers and are still doing. Bless you all. But I still do not regret the Army just wish it would have been a different base and not affected my whole family in the end.

Response by Cpl Lorne Houle made Apr 6 at 2015 1:40 AM

2015-04-06T01:40:39-04:00

It took longer than I expected but I'm definitely satisfied of the branch of service I chose and I wouldn't have chosen any other branch. I also didn't expect to see my first dead body before I got out of bootcamp but one of the recruits died in front of me during the crucible... I'd do it all over again!

Response by SGT Mark Sullivan made Apr 6 at 2015 1:55 AM

2015-04-06T01:55:22-04:00

Being in my 20's when I joined, my choice was eyes wide open. I figured that was I was getting into was going to be tough either way. I chose the Army, and then later it chose me. I never had any regrets as far as what branch.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 2:04 AM

2015-04-06T02:04:07-04:00

The army has met my expectations. I was pretty sure of what I was getting into; so no big surprises one way or the other.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Apr 6 at 2015 3:07 AM

2015-04-06T03:07:13-04:00

I joined because I'm from a Navy family who was just following tradition. I don't regret a minute of it. I had 3 expectations back then:
1) To be trained in a job that could be converted to civilian after I got out.
2) To not get laid off.
3) To travel on the ocean to foreign countries.
They met all 3 and more. It was a good career but now it's hard for me to recommend the service because I see a lot of broken promises. They are still trying to mess with TRICARE Prime for retirees and Enlisted Retention Board the Navy had a few years ago is the same as getting fired in the middle of your contract. Makes me wonder how secure are military benefits?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 5:28 AM

2015-04-06T05:28:36-04:00

I believe most people with an open mind will not regret their choice. I'm in a joint command now and have all services in my unit. While we have different terms for the same things, we have the same mentality; get the job done, do it right, and move on to the next task. Each service has their good and bad, but we all sacrifice the same.

However, I do have a funny story from when I was recruiter. I had a young lady who Signed up for the Army but decided against shipping off. A couple of weeks later she showed up in the Navy office. She ended up joining the navy, but for several months before she shipped off, she would harass us in the recruiting station with Army/Navy jokes. She actually got the point where I told her to leave and if I she continued we have words with her recruiter and bar her from the station. Anyways, about 3-4 months later she came back in her full white uniform, infornt of all the new DEP's in the Navy station and walked into the Army office and pronounced "Screw the Navy!" Intrigued, I sat her down and asked her to explain the change of heart. She told me that they made her Join with an open Contract for 4 years. She also explained how they made her a BM (Boatswain's mate) and would send her to Bahrain. She then wanted me to get her out of the Navy. I laughed and told her to have a good day/4 years.

Response by SGT Michael Hamrac, MBA, MRP, GRI, REALTOR® made Apr 6 at 2015 5:37 AM

2015-04-06T05:37:38-04:00

Saw Rambo on a Sunday evening and was at an Army recruiters office that next Monday. Arrived at Ft. Benning 3 months later. The craziest and best thing I've ever done! Raise the re-enlistment age to 50...and I might just do it again...

Response by SGT James Allen made Apr 6 at 2015 5:38 AM

2015-04-06T05:38:26-04:00

I chose the Army because of family tradition. I have had a family member serve in every campaign this great country has fought in since the French and Indian War. One of those ancestors turned out to be Ethan Allen from the Green Mountain Boys in the Revolutionary War.

Response by 2LT Charley Gibbs made Apr 6 at 2015 6:52 AM

2015-04-06T06:52:54-04:00

I only had a brief time as an enlisted guardsman and an even shorter tour as a 2Lt in the active duty Army Nurse Corps, but I still feel you get out what you put in. The branch mission differences are the only real variable. As an older sedentary recruit of 29, Army basic about killed me. As a 34 year old 01, my physical contribution was simply not enough. But serving with great officers and enlisted personnel made the five and a half years worthwhile.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 7:42 AM

2015-04-06T07:42:23-04:00

I actually was Army ROTC while in nursing school. I wasn't under scholarship, just knew I wanted to join the Army after I graduated. Unfortunately there were too many nurses in 1995 so the Army said "no thanks, we have too many nurses". I graduated and worked as a civilian nurse for a couple years, then researched the Air Force. They needed nurses and so I joined. As far as everything I thought it would be...... No job is just that. Every career has its ups and downs. However, the Air Force has been great to me. 2 deployments and a scholarship for grad school. Hard to believe I have been in for 15 years already.

Response by LTJG Robert M. made Apr 6 at 2015 7:44 AM

2015-04-06T07:44:05-04:00

Retired CG, decision that lead me here was family history & fascination with the sea. Maternal Grandfather was captain of CGC Manning, maternal Great-Grandfather was on revenue cutter Bear

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Apr 6 at 2015 8:50 AM

2015-04-06T08:50:35-04:00

I wanted to be a Soldier from the time I was 5 years old, more or less in tribute/footsteps of my grandfather who served in WWII and the Korean War. When I was a senior in HS, I applied for and received a nomination to West Point but due to a very large number of applicants and nominations that year ('83-'84), I was not selected. So I went to a community college for my freshman year and then applied for and was awarded a 3-yr ROTC scholarship to the University of Florida, but after my sophomore year I got burned out on school, gave up the scholarship and went home to figure things out. While home after work one day the Army recruiter called the house to speak to my younger brother who had just graduated the previous year and as he was not home, she and I talked about the Army, and I know she was salivating as she had a HS grad with an interest in the Army and I agreed to meet with her. We talked, I took the ASVAB, they really wanted me at this point as I was a Grad-"A" with high scores lol. Went and took the physical, initially no tanks so I settled on MP with first duty assignment guaranteed to be Italy, but ROTC Command got wind and wanted their scholarship money back, so had to pay that back first and then do a contract "ReNo". This time there were tanks along with a cash bonus, so I snapped it up, was in the DEP for 4 1/2 months and only thing I ever regretted was not "seeing" everything I was qualified for before choosing, although my heart was set on being a Tanker and never regretted that decision for one minute, 26-years later I retired and couldn't have been more honored and proud of my service to this country of ours!!

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 8:52 AM

2015-04-06T08:52:02-04:00

In 1990 I originally planned to join the Navy as my Mother was AD Navy at the time and I wanted to follow in her foot/boot steps. However, for some reason the recruiter told me not to really go out for anything a man would go for because it would limit me and anyone else who wanted that particular job. I found this offensive to my 21 year old brain and promptly went and requested my Mother meet me for lunch. At the time she was a MA instructor at Fort McClellan in AL. My Mother and the Chief went toe to toe and Mom told me if I still wanted to go Navy, the Chief would take my packet. I didn't, and joined the AF in 1991 instead. I stayed with the AF for almost 12 years and loved many aspects of it. In 2008, I joined the Navy reserves, and in 2013 I earned my commission. Like several others have mentioned, you make your way in the service and your experiences are what you make out of it. I love both branches of service and admire anyone who stays.

Response by MSgt Robert 'Elvis' McClain made Apr 6 at 2015 8:56 AM

2015-04-06T08:56:41-04:00

My cousin was a Major in the Army and told me he'd kick my ass if I joined the Army. Dad was a Navy man...ended up in the USAF because they got me out of there the quickest

Response by SGT John Wesley made Apr 6 at 2015 9:14 AM

2015-04-06T09:14:08-04:00

I had no delusions about joining the Army, I needed the regimen and discipline .

Response by SGT Chris Reese made Apr 6 at 2015 9:57 AM

2015-04-06T09:57:32-04:00

I was quite satisfied with my decision to join the United States Army. I didn't get all the crap most people do. I guess that goes along with having a brother who is a recruiter. Lol

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Apr 6 at 2015 9:58 AM

2015-04-06T09:58:03-04:00

I was not sure whether to join the Army or the Navy. I grew up in Germany and was awed watching paratroopers jump, and terrified as well as a 7 year old. But I also loved being on the ocean.
My dilemma was solved when I reached the recruiting offices, and the Navy office was closed.
I loved being in the Army and was proud of my unit and what we accomplished. But Viet Nam ended, and the new mentality instilled in newer officers was horrendous - we were losers and did not not know to fight, etc. Morale was horrendous and there serious riffs going on that eroded morale even further. The high command fostered these misguided policies, so the younger officers had no choice but to follow the mandates of their superiors.
Getting out of the Army was worse. Gone were my buddies-but many of them were gone by then anyway. No support and the VA was disinterested except by default. My doctor on 7th Avenue in NY was a perennially drunk German castoff from World War 2, probably from the Operation Paperclip generation brought over to keep the Russians from getting them. When they closed that clinic, the VA threw out all of our records, which was documented by the local tv news crew. Now because the VA threw them out, they can not refer to them which causes me additional problems.
So, while the Army was great, the incredibly obtuse and criminally negligent policies formulated by our alleged brethren in the puzzle palaces at the time destroyed hundreds of thousands of us as we tried to cope with our experiences, and when Agent Orange was finally recognized, we learned of so many of those we served with died prematurely, their families were devastated, and it was not uncommon for our children to be born with defects. The abject and criminal wanton indifference to human suffering of us veterans and our families helped lead to the extensive number of suicides on a daily basis, which the VA has estimated by culling such information from only selected states - others estimate the suicide number as double the official VA estimate. Surprise, surprise. So while there a great many dedicated and equally frustrated VA employees, there are others who continue to champion outmoded thinking, wildly inaccurate economic models, and deadly medical interpretations leading to continuous and devastating denials of benefits.
Vets-Help was formed to tackle these massive challenges. Being a good grunt with a bad ear I do not know when to quit, and fortunately I have learned to use my bad ear as a BS deflector. Some days it gets a real workout.
Good luck to all - keep track of all your records as you go through your journey, and remember the old guard is working hard to help safeguard you and yours. I found my responsibility to my troops as an NCO has only gotten stronger over the years.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 10:13 AM

2015-04-06T10:13:01-04:00

Originally I had planned on joining the Marines, however when I arrived at the recruiters office, the recruiter had locked his cellphone and keys inside the office. I helped him get in to the building, told him to have a good day, then walked across the hall to join the Army. I am inclined to regret this decision, as I have been disappointed with the Army's lack of discipline, especially given the contrast of having my barracks directly across from Marine barracks. However, my military career is just starting, and I am not about to cast anything in a bad light so early on.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 10:31 AM

2015-04-06T10:31:01-04:00

I was suppose to be become a Sniper for the USMC, but I wanted to talk to the Navy recruiters and see how it was and here I am :) It has been a fantastic pick so far!

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Apr 6 at 2015 10:37 AM

2015-04-06T10:37:46-04:00

For me the choice was easy, I was in Albuquerque NM, I had an appointment with the Air Force recruiter, I arrived for the appointment, and the office was closed. Nobody ever showed up. I was on my way home from the disappointment, and passed a Navy recruiting office. The Marines were right next door. I knew I was not ever going to qualify for the Marines due to my husky (to sugar coat it) nature. I went in and talked to the Navy recruiter, and started working towards enlistment. Fortunately my brother had a better Air Force recruiter as he left for Air Force bootcamp just a couple of weeks after I left for Navy Boot Camp.

Response by SGT William Howell made Apr 6 at 2015 10:41 AM

2015-04-06T10:41:02-04:00

It took a second time to get it right. I joined the Navy at 17 and then went back in after Sept 11. 2 totally different ways of doing business. The Navy was like a job. You went to work you did your job and that was it. It was a nice way to do things.

The Army is more like well the ARMY. You shit in a bag and you eat out of one too. Somebody is always bitching about something. You go off to some country you care nothing about and run up and down the roads waiting for some caveman with a cell phone to blow you up. I LOVED THE ARMY!!! It was an adventure everyday and It was something different every day. I thank God every day I reenlisted in the Army.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 10:43 AM

2015-04-06T10:43:11-04:00

I have a deep love for the Navy. Though I respect all branches and believe that I would excel in any atmosphere, I am proud to continue on the traditions of the Navy and being a part of something greater than myself. I do not regret my growth personally or professionally, the Navy has made me a better person and leader.

Response by SPC Daniel Bowen made Apr 6 at 2015 11:08 AM

2015-04-06T11:08:06-04:00

I do not regret the branch I chose one bit. I have heard so many recruiter's "lied to me" and or "it was nothing like the recruiter said it would be". People drop out or DOR from basic because they ran with the basic knowledge of what a recruiter gave. My recruiter didn't BS me one bit. I walked in and asked for 5+ yr, Fort Drum and 11B. He paused asking if I was sure. "You can go a lot of places but you choose Drum?"
Yea yea yea, figured if I can live in one of the most the miserable places to be stationed as a grunt then heck it may help me when I deploy so screw it. He even tried to talk me out of Drum and suggested a 3 yr contract to get my feet wet. I regret nothing. Best decision I ever made for my future.

Response by SFC Charles S. made Apr 6 at 2015 11:32 AM

2015-04-06T11:32:17-04:00

For myself, it was never really and option. I always wanted to be in the Army. I Grew up in the Vietnam War days, it was always on TV and I associated myself with Army from that young age. All I wanted to be was Army. When I turned 17 I joined Delayed Entry, Upon Graduation I left 12 days after I walked across the stage. For 20 Years it was everything that I imagined and sometime very much more. I owe everything I have become to my experiences in the Army. I wouldn't change a thing.

Response by SSgt Robert Jason Dean made Apr 6 at 2015 11:32 AM

2015-04-06T11:32:30-04:00

When I first started down this path, I began taking Air Force ROTC classes in college my first semester. To be quite honest about it, they seemed rather disorganized, and none of my classmates seemed to take it seriously. Essentially, it was simply not my idea of the military. In the middle of my next semester I enlisted in the Marine Corps, and shipped for boot camp later that same month.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 11:32 AM

2015-04-06T11:32:56-04:00

Absolutely!!! No regrets whatsoever!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 11:35 AM

2015-04-06T11:35:49-04:00

I wanted to join the combat arms initially, and still do. My father was a prior Infantryman, SF and a Cav Scout so he would not allow me to join if I was going to choose the CA's route; I was 17 at the time and needed a legal gaurdian to sign off for me so that I cpould join the Army...
I've been stationed at Ft. Detrick for just under 2 1/2 years now and wished I could have been doing more with my career to this point. I would like to experience things like a deployment or two, Ranger school and some other goals of mine. I love the Army more than any organzation but would like to experience more 'Army' oriented posts and eventaully "Be All I Can Be". Hooah!!!!!

Response by SPC Larry Buck made Apr 6 at 2015 11:57 AM

2015-04-06T11:57:38-04:00

Original pick senior year in high and, U.S. Marine Corps, but thanks to my special needs hearing... NoGo... I was beeping on every beep in the hearing test, there were three others that was in the sound proof chamber too, the lady administrative support tech???? Who gave the test was talking to someone outside the chamber, but anyway after test failed was sent to aid station for ear cleaning then failed again beeping every beep, still NoGo. Years later tried Army after my one heartbreaking split from the girl even my mom liked! Thats the killer, mom likes the girl and tells you to keep her?!?!?!? Wow she was the shit!!! LOL but went in expecting war zones not non deployable training unit, but No reality expectations except war and die or live to die a soldier... I'm not suicidal all mental support people say the same.. But my love for better drove me to G-Ds path and still struggling to get on and stay on it , but am rolling with HIM, you want me to be honest asking HIM permission for the way to be opened to HIS Paradise valley, You'll struggle with yourself and I'm serious about it... But that'd be your build process to open the super highway to Heaven... But chose wisely, your still not there yet but HE meant for me to be Army and not combat cause I'm on mission right now because theirs one who is in need and I'm the back up...!? Army of O.N.E. , Thank You All For Your Service.. YO JOE !!!!!!

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 12:09 PM

2015-04-06T12:09:49-04:00

I definitely enjoy the AF. And from my brethren in the Navy, USMC, and Army...I picked the right branch.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 12:29 PM

2015-04-06T12:29:47-04:00

I got what I expected with the army, there were some things that were better then expected, and some worse.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Apr 6 at 2015 12:30 PM

2015-04-06T12:30:56-04:00

I was dead set on going combat arms. Originally, I was going into the Marines. My recruiter was great, answered questions and really helpful in figuring things out. Alas, he was reassigned and the guy that replaced him either hated being a recruiter or simply didn't care. Put me off quick, so I started talking to the Army.

My recruiter there, SFC Camacho (still remember his name 22 years later!), was awesome. He was extremely honest about what to expect and what life in the Army was going to be like. He wanted me to go intel (His MOS) but never pushed too hard one way or the other. I used to laugh whenever an NCO would say "Don't blame me, blame your recruiter!" I couldn't. heh

I still remember him dropping me off after I enlisted, handing my mom the piece of paper that said "11X - Infantry" and telling her "I had nothing to do with this!"

Response by PO3 Brendan "Smitty" Smith made Apr 6 at 2015 12:42 PM

2015-04-06T12:42:13-04:00

I expected to go to sea more. I'm a second generation sailor and believe that sailors belong on ships and ships belong at sea. Sadly, I had my dreams snatched from by a detailer who didn't pay attention to detail. I was supposed to transfer from Diego Garcia to the precom ship, USS O'Kane DDG 77. I was gonna meet the ship up in Maine and take it to it's final port in Hawaii, spending two more years in Hawaii. Well, either my detailer, or the precom detailer "lost my packet" and my billet went to someone else. So, instead, I got NSGA Kunia, HI. You can imagine my surprise when I got my orders. So, I called the detailer who said, "Oh sorry, I didn't realize you wanted to go to sea." Further proof that no one reads your dream sheet, which for me said, "Choice 1: Ship. Choice 2: Ship. Choice 3: Ship." So, she says, "Call me next week when the new billets come out and I'll get you a ship" I called the following week and...She had PCS'd. The new detailer didn't care because I already had orders. Grrr....

I ended up spending a grand total of a couple of days at sea in my seven years in the Navy. Don't get me wrong, I would do it all over again and I don't regret my choice, I just wish some things went down differently.

Response by SGT Robert Hawks made Apr 6 at 2015 2:01 PM

2015-04-06T14:01:17-04:00

I always wanted to join the Army My Dad was in the Army

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Apr 6 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-04-06T14:18:44-04:00

I expected more in terms of leadership being more "do as I do" also a more sense of brotherhood in that i observed alot of "suck it up, it sucks to be you."

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 2:39 PM

2015-04-06T14:39:25-04:00

After seeing all the crap that the sister services had to deal with, I was glad that I chose what I did.

I feel that there was a lot that I got to experience... A lot of history I got to experience and from a point of view that a fraction of the military gets to experience it from. I'm not talking about being in country and within the fight, but rather from bigger picture and a very unique picture.

I loved my time in the Air Force and, had I to chose all over again, I would still do it. The only thing I might have done different is how I joined. At the end of the day, I'm very proud to have held the title of NCO.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Apr 6 at 2015 2:55 PM

2015-04-06T14:55:27-04:00

I was just thinking about this, and I really think that the military needs to revisit how they choose recruiters. Some recruiters are great, others are just going through the motions, and still others are like a used car salesman just trying to get you to sign on the dotted line. The best kind of person to have as a recruiter is someone who genuinely loves their service. I am talking about a person who is living a lifelong dream by being a part of the service. That shows in the interview process. If you are talking to a recruiter who can tell you all about the experience of being a service member, but also takes an interest in making sure that (insert service branch here) is right for the individual, then it would make this question a moot point. We would end up with recruiters that help a potential enlistee with making the choice. Everyone would come out ahead in the end.
I will now yield the soap box.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 3:02 PM

2015-04-06T15:02:36-04:00

Both my parents were Army, so I had a solid idea of what I was getting myself into. That being said, a lot had changed since my parents had left the service. Looking back, I may have tried harder to get into the Airforce as a JTAC or CCT. Mainly for the opportunities outside of the service. There isn't much out there for an infantryman.

Response by MSgt Bill Milligan made Apr 6 at 2015 3:11 PM

2015-04-06T15:11:21-04:00

My initial training in 78 at Parris Island after I enlisted in the USMCR went exactly as my recruiter had briefed. It was only later when I wanted to go an active duty did things change. I was only offered certain MOS not anything close to what I wanted to get into with the statement of take it or leave it. The Air Force was not only more accommodating but turned into a great place to spend a career.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 3:29 PM

2015-04-06T15:29:38-04:00

I'm satisfied with the Army. Coming from a military family I knew what I was getting into

Response by SFC Mark Johnson made Apr 6 at 2015 4:09 PM

2015-04-06T16:09:20-04:00

I would do it all again joining the army was rewarding

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 4:12 PM

2015-04-06T16:12:07-04:00

While I am satisfied with my decision to enlist in the Army, I expected more. Not the glamour that the recruiters spit at you, but more of the nitty gritty. The crazy and wild stuff ya see in the movies. The HARD, lean, mean and brutal methods of teaching. History showed that it made stronger, faster more resilient soldiers. And because that tactic is lacking now, it makes for a more PC Army, breeding softer soldiers. And I openly admit (to my own shame) that I am not as hard as my father was when he was in my position, simply because his training and leadership were more brutal and hard with him tham mine have been with me. I believe I am harder than a lot of my "peers" but I am not as hard and "lean-mean-killing-machine" as I could be, with the right mentor.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 4:14 PM

2015-04-06T16:14:43-04:00

I debated for a while between the Marine Corps and Navy. Honestly, when I walked into the recruitment office, I was intending to speak to the SSgt in the Marine Corps office, but she was out and about. Across the hall the Navy recruiter was in, and I thought to myself "Well, in my military family, no one has served in the Navy yet". 2 years later, here I am, and I do not regret it one bit. Some aspects are better than I expected, some fall short, but overall a decision I'm proud of.

Response by PO3 Michael Courson made Apr 6 at 2015 4:21 PM

2015-04-06T16:21:17-04:00

I got more out of my 4 years than I could have ever hoped for!

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Apr 6 at 2015 5:46 PM

2015-04-06T17:46:53-04:00

I was gonna join the Army at first to be a Ranger like my granddad but I eventually went with the Marines because 1. I thought they'd get me to war sooner than the Army and 2. everyone knows that Marine Dress Blues are panty-droppers, pardon my French. Both of those were eventually realized, so yeah, no regrets.

But for real, it was not everything I expected, but when you're a nasty civilian, your expectations are probably unrealistic to begin with. That being said, it was absolutely a positive, life-changing experience and undoubtedly the best 4 years of my life.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 5:51 PM

2015-04-06T17:51:07-04:00

Love this question, CPT Private RallyPoint Member

I knew I wasn't destined for the Army or Marine Corps. My physical abilities are probably not up to par by their standards. Kudos to everyone that has the physical and mental prowess to be successful in those branches, and please don't mistake me as saying the other branches are less physically demanding.

The Navy was actually my first call. My brother went through NROTC, so much of my experience growing up was Navy-positive. The officer recruiter told me I was too old and my degree was non-technical. Pretty much end of conversation right there. He didn't make any other suggestions or offer an advice. I called the AF officer recruiter after that. I live here in Colorado Springs, so the AF is an active presence and my FIL is also retired AF. When I called that officer recruiter, he told me that this area is saturated with AF officers in the Reserve, and I might potentially have to travel out of state to find an available slot, which I didn't want to do at the time. He recommended that I enlist and then commission via the Deserving Airman Commissioning Program. I ended up doing exactly that.

My pathway wasn't my original idea, but I am beyond pleased with the results. I am thankful that I have experience as an enlisted troop and that I have that foundation in the enlisted Air Force. For a while, I considered remaining enlisted and pursuing the MTI path.

Long story short, I am more than pleased with my pathway and thankful for the experience and the adventure that I have had so far.

Response by Cpl Daniel Clark made Apr 6 at 2015 5:54 PM

2015-04-06T17:54:12-04:00

Enjoyed every bit of my enlistment and don't regret a thing-going through the CORPS

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Apr 6 at 2015 6:09 PM

2015-04-06T18:09:54-04:00

Wanted to fly since I was in grade school. Knew USAF required pilots to have a degree to be commissioned so I went to college and AFROTC. Received two-year scholarship. Graduated and commissioned. Accepted for pilot training. Earned wings. Lived my dream for 16 years then came the desk jobs. Retired after 22 yrs. miss it every now and then.

Response by SSgt Donald Poolaw made Apr 6 at 2015 6:14 PM

2015-04-06T18:14:14-04:00

It wasn't no picnic...but wouldn't change if I could ..

Response by TSgt Anthony Ellis made Apr 6 at 2015 6:20 PM

2015-04-06T18:20:47-04:00

I am satisfied with my selection of the Air Force. Yes I was everything that I thought it would be and more. It prepared me for the civilian workforce in many ways.

Response by SPC Ken Harper made Apr 6 at 2015 6:22 PM

2015-04-06T18:22:49-04:00

Joined the Nav a year after graduating HS, just to get out and see some of the world. Sailed on a carrier in the Pacific, travel and sights were accomplished. Policy changes by Dept of Navy that affected personnel in my rate (in spite of THEIR EOE policy) prompted me to get out. Joined the Army and went to Germany, stationed at K-town. Lots of LE work in garrison and in the field, but decided LE was not a career for me (gets old seeing the same criminals all the time doing the same stupid thing). I got everything I wanted/expected as far as travel, training and pay. Only disappointments were caused by the big MACHINE(s) changing things to suit themselves, at the expense of those of us trying to make rank, etc.

Response by Cpl Karl Gleason made Apr 6 at 2015 6:49 PM

2015-04-06T18:49:51-04:00

Yes it was. Very satisfied with the outcome.

Response by 1SG David Lopez made Apr 6 at 2015 7:38 PM

2015-04-06T19:38:16-04:00

Grandpa, Dad, Me, and my Son served in the U.S. Army. A Familiy Tradition from the ghetto of East Los Angeles. My Grandpa and Dad were both born in Mexico. We are all proud to have served our nation.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 7:41 PM

2015-04-06T19:41:34-04:00

I joined the Army after dropping out of high school. I had no direction and I was engaged to someone who had just enlisted and was waiting to ship out. Plan was to get married and go wherever he went. Well we broke up and I had no idea what I was going to do.
I didn't want to enlist because I thought I'd have to cut my hair short and getting up super early just didn't do it for me. Well, I enlisted in the Army and I would never look back. Didn't have to cut my hair but do have those early mornings. I'm independent, goal oriented, and I have direction. I'm satisfied in my decision.

Response by SGT James Adair made Apr 6 at 2015 8:21 PM

2015-04-06T20:21:57-04:00

Two of my uncles were WWII veterans and all three of my older brothers had been in the Army. There was no way I would have went anywhere else. Though I was the only one to go Infantry and to make E-5.

Response by SSG Jim Foreman made Apr 6 at 2015 8:34 PM

2015-04-06T20:34:35-04:00

The Army was perfect for me. I entered a kid and left a man. It taught me honor, respect, loyalty, teamwork, dedication to duty, just to name a few things. Army strong forever (man, I sound like a recruiter)

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 8:38 PM

2015-04-06T20:38:16-04:00

Having been in two branches, I will say that my second choice was absolutely the best. The caveat to that is that my experience in the first helped to shape my opinion of the second. No regrets at all. For either.

Response by 1SG Brian Allen made Apr 6 at 2015 8:43 PM

2015-04-06T20:43:20-04:00

It was everything and more! Scouts Out!

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 9:01 PM

2015-04-06T21:01:37-04:00

I love the Air Force. It's helped me grow as a man and as a productive citizen. If I hadn't joined, I could have been in a lot of different situations that could have all been bad. It's all in how you make it. You could see the service as a burden that you made a mistake or a helping hand that strengthened your mind and body, which in turn, made you a better person.

Response by CPO Ed Parent made Apr 6 at 2015 9:05 PM

2015-04-06T21:05:47-04:00

Glad I spent 21+ in the Navy. I believe if you love your job there is a good chance you'll stay in regardless of the branch of service.

Response by SFC Lynn Santosuosso made Apr 6 at 2015 9:41 PM

2015-04-06T21:41:20-04:00

I loved the Army just wish I had a recruiter that really offered more options to me at enlistment. No regrets, even opting to stay enlisted after being urged to go OCS by 3 different officers at 3 different times in my career.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 10:03 PM

2015-04-06T22:03:05-04:00

Followed family tradition in joining the USAF. I did consider the Navy for a brief moment, I wouldnt be able to do AeroEvac anywhere else like in the Air Force!

Response by SGT Ramiro Durazo made Apr 6 at 2015 10:19 PM

2015-04-06T22:19:34-04:00

I went from Navy to Army, WHAT I Didn't Expect was the backlash towards prior service, all in all, I did noy regret my decidion, i love the Army and its style of leadership, grooming and development of Soldiers.

Response by PFC Chris Zimmerman made Apr 6 at 2015 10:22 PM

2015-04-06T22:22:32-04:00

My Dad was a mustang Korea (armor)and Vietnam (aviation) era Colonel. Poor guy was city bred and got stuck with a wild eyed country heathen for a son. I hated the Army growing up as a stay at home army brat.

Then I grew up. I moved out. The wind blew North Pole cold on the ranch shack and the Texas Sun actively seemed to be trying to kill me in all summer. Round steak (grilled bologna) and Stroh's celebrations were the best we could do since the oil patch dried up that first year out of school.

My Dad and a whole bunch of farmers I respected were Korea and WWII vets from the Army. Their stories called this wandering lad home. I'll never regret my 11B1P time, but I'd have re-upped in the combat engineers if I'd stayed unbroken.

No regrets. Best decision ever made other than my marriages.

Response by SGT Laz Ortiz made Apr 6 at 2015 10:37 PM

2015-04-06T22:37:46-04:00

I actually thought about joining the Marines. I am satisfied I joined the Army!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 10:53 PM

2015-04-06T22:53:35-04:00

I went into the Army with my eyes wide open. I'm extremely satisfied.

Response by SGT John Beardsley made Apr 6 at 2015 11:35 PM

2015-04-06T23:35:18-04:00

The branch was everything I thought it would be, but the MOS was suspect. I could not, and still can not, understand why I was placed in the job specialty that my ASFAB score showed I was LEAST apt for and by a wide margin.

My scores were good across the board, which led the the odd situation where in most of the units I was assigned to I ended up doing tasks outside of my 13B MOS. I'd give a rough estimate that I worked outside of my MOS for 70% of my career, which did not sit well with some members of my units who thought I was making those decisions, which was not the case. Admittedly I did not turn those positions down, but in the end it was the decisions of individuals above my grade who controlled the situations. One thing that helped me in those situations is that I always scored high on my SQTs even though I spent most of my time NOT doing the job those tests were supposedly qualifying me for, usually scoring in the top 5 - 10% of my units, which is one of the reasons my unit commanders continued to let me work as I did.

If I had it to do all over with what I know now, I don't know if I would choose the Army . . . but if I did I would not have let the idiots in the recruiting station steamroll me into a MOS I was not suited for. I believe I had a successful military career, but I wonder if those same idiots had placed me in a MOS better suited to my abilities according to the ASFAB scores if my career would have been even better.

I loved the Army, still do. But I did not and never will love the recruiting process, which I think screws a hell of a lot of potentially great soldiers like myself.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 7 at 2015 12:10 AM

2015-04-07T00:10:45-04:00

I still remember the Army's recruiting slogan from years ago: "Be all that you can be."

Response by MAJ Brian Anderson made Apr 7 at 2015 12:31 AM

2015-04-07T00:31:23-04:00

Not at all. The Army was my first choice and I have absolutely no regrets.

Response by SA Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 1:14 AM

2015-04-07T01:14:01-04:00

I love the navy so far

Response by SrA Rex Brown made Apr 7 at 2015 1:51 AM

2015-04-07T01:51:53-04:00

The choice to join was easy and I got out of it what I had expected. On one side of my family is all Navy people. i wanted to do something different. it was about what I expected from their experiences.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 5:14 AM

2015-04-07T05:14:47-04:00

To be honest I had a hard time getting in touch with the AD AF recruiter at my station. But my older brother who was already a Sergeant in the US Army recommended going for either the Air Force or the Navy.

In the end I was happy with how things turned out. There was nothing I wasn't warned about or didn't expect and I ended up with a contract I was very happy with. And I chose the right branch for me to be in since AFSC/MOS/Rating does more of the fun stuff than the versions in the sister services.

Response by PO3 Gregg Kemp made Apr 7 at 2015 7:36 AM

2015-04-07T07:36:37-04:00

I chose the Navy because, I was offered a huge incentive to join. I expected exactly what I experienced. I am glad I did my job. I learned a skill and also earned my degree after I left.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 7:44 AM

2015-04-07T07:44:48-04:00

I'm happy being in the army no matter how it ends up. It's great knowing I'm apart of something HUGE.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 8:50 AM

2015-04-07T08:50:58-04:00

I am very happy with my decision to join the Army. It was my top choice and I have not regretted it at all. When I walked into the recruiting station my recruiter asked me why the other services had turned me down... it took a couple seconds to realize that many people at the time we're only joining the Army because the other Services had turned them down. Keep in mind that this was when you could get a waiver as long as you had less than 2 felonies.

It has presented many challanges and I have been able to serve in several leadership positions that would not have been available to me in some of the other services. It was an e as y choice and I would make the same one again.

Response by SPC Barrett Johnson made Apr 7 at 2015 9:29 AM

2015-04-07T09:29:36-04:00

I went Army for afew reasons. My father and other family were Army vets also I wanted a wider variety of Places to live and a Bigger choice of MOS's. I knew I wanted to deploy to the middle of nowhere and not be on a big base with coffee shops and McDonald's. Fort Drum made it happen

Response by LT Garth Young (Ret) made Apr 7 at 2015 9:38 AM

2015-04-07T09:38:45-04:00

After serving 7 plus years in the USN, I transferred to the USCG for another 15. Both services were awesome....so yes, they were all that I thought they would be and more!!

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Apr 7 at 2015 10:08 AM

2015-04-07T10:08:25-04:00

The experience was much greater than I had ever imagined. Looking back as senior in college, had I known I was going to be working with such dynamic, dedicated and sharp teams, I would've been counting the minutes to my commission!

Response by TSgt John Dias made Apr 7 at 2015 10:23 AM

2015-04-07T10:23:33-04:00

Dad was USAF and he steered me towards the USAF w/ the biggest selling point being the Quality of Life (at the time). He reminded me that the main fighting force of the Army/Marines/Navy was the enlisted man. In the Air Force the officers fly the planes. He was right. Worked on some great installations with awesome facilities and services. No regrets.

Response by SSgt Joe V. made Apr 7 at 2015 10:24 AM

2015-04-07T10:24:42-04:00

I followed an attractive young lady into the recruiter's office while shopping for sneakers, was told that AF basic was just one big mind-game and was informed of this thing called TACP where I could work and live with the Army and blow stuff up with planes and helicopters and artillery...

I chose two branches with one decision, and then got to work with Marines in Iraq too, so I had the best of all worlds if you ask me. Did my six, thought about staying in, then got offered a job with DHS and jumped ship. OK with my decision to leave, but would have been happy to stay too.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Apr 7 at 2015 10:42 AM

2015-04-07T10:42:10-04:00

I joined the Army back in 1986, went to basic training in 1987. I joined the Army as they were the only recruiters in the area (other branches had offices, but I NEVER saw them). This was back in the 1980's, so I had aspirations of becoming something akin to Rambo.... Actually decided to go Combat Medic as there was potential of civilian skills possible with that.... Was not exactly what I thought it would be, but I did enjoy the people. Went Army Guard when my AD Tour was up...deployed to Desert Storm. Went to Nursing School and went Air Guard (Army was kicking nurses out in mid 1990s). Decided to go active duty Air Force. Will retire end of this year and feel that I have had a good military career and a total of 3 NOT Hollywood military style deployments (Desert Storm, OIF and OEF). I feel my military was MUCH MUCH better then anything Hollywood could come up with!

Response by SMSgt Bryan Raines made Apr 7 at 2015 10:42 AM

2015-04-07T10:42:40-04:00

Yes it was. I had relatives in the Air Force and understood the mission at the time. Honestly I joined because of the job market in 1982 and stayed because I liked serving my country. I still miss the Air Force and being around a military culture. This is why I like Rally Point. The different points of view of the posters and their slant on the various services is very refreshing to me after dealing with civilians on a daily basis.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 10:46 AM

2015-04-07T10:46:34-04:00

Absolutely. When I was in high school (Dad was Army) we were in a small base in Germany. It had all four services in some capacity or another. In the barracks the Army were 4 to a room until E6, then 2 to a room. The Navy and Marines were pretty much all 4 to a room. The Air Force on the other had were 1 to a room and they were getting paid substandard living allowance. That told me everything I needed to know about the service I was joining. If I planned on making it at least 20 years, I would be more comfortable for the ride!

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 10:55 AM

2015-04-07T10:55:53-04:00

At that time in my life it was more of a calling than a decision. There were a few very bad days and thousands of great days. I will never regret being a Marine.

Response by SGT Darreck Lisle made Apr 7 at 2015 11:34 AM

2015-04-07T11:34:55-04:00

I joined the Army to Service my Country. I wanted to do it in the cockpit of an AH-1S. I was one of the few that had a recruiter that was more interested in my signature then getting me into Warrant Officer flight program. He suggested that I go in as an Infantryman and apply after a year and it would be much easier. After hitting every school I could at Benning and Campbell I soon realized that I was destined to remain a Grunt and to this day I have no regrets. Did I ever get to fly a Cobra? Not yet ;)

Response by MAJ Greg Lundeberg made Apr 7 at 2015 11:50 AM

2015-04-07T11:50:04-04:00

I walked into the recruiters office and said send me to boot camp. I never regretted it on bit.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 11:53 AM

2015-04-07T11:53:51-04:00

I almost went Navy because I was in ROTC in high school. But because of my high school friend, I managed to go Air Force because of the buddy program. Unforturnately she didn't make it and I entered by myself. My experience was what I made of it.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 12:01 PM

2015-04-07T12:01:25-04:00

I expected more, especially after hearing my grandfathers (one marine and one in the air force) talk about their time in. But it is what it is.

Response by Sgt Frank Rinchich made Apr 7 at 2015 12:18 PM

2015-04-07T12:18:45-04:00

I enlisted in the Marine Corps in early 1955 to 1959 ,would I do it over ? you better believe it. my biggest regret in life was not making the Marine Corps a career. The Corps was every thing I hoped it would be, after 56 years of being out , I still am active with anything to do with the Corps, Marine Corps League, together we serve, MCS&F, VFW and many more organizations. Starting in 1955 the Corps was my life , and still is.

Response by Sgt Brian Nusida made Apr 7 at 2015 1:38 PM

2015-04-07T13:38:36-04:00

I knew I would be a Marine and it was every thing I wanted and expected and then some. Problem is when you get back to civilian life as a combat vet you have a stigma attached to you. And its even worse if you decide to get help and the dreaded letters PTSD get attached to you. Now your dream job is a thing of the past and your stuck barely making ends meet because people have bought the hollywood/media version of a crazy post war Veteran who will go crazy at any moment. Whats the point of serving you country when it turns its back on you when you get home. Am I glad I served? Yes! Do I wish I hadn't served? Every time I have been turned down for what I want to do for work, when I know I cant buy my children something, and every time I get a look from a coworker who is terrified if they say something bad to me I will get pissed then the shcok when I dont

Response by MAJ Terry LaFrance made Apr 7 at 2015 2:02 PM

2015-04-07T14:02:17-04:00

Army wasn't my first choice, but we didn't have Naval ROTC. I've had a helluva good time so I don't regret it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 2:15 PM

2015-04-07T14:15:07-04:00

It was not hard for me at all. My father was in the Army, My uncle's were and I have cousins. It was like a right of passage thing in my family. I agree with SSG Derrick L. Lewis It is really what you make it. I love the Army and I over came a lot of fears and adversity in my career thus far. I would change it for the world. There are obviously some things we wish we could have done differently and wish we could change, but overall I love it and I love the Army!!!

Response by SGT Bill Lusher made Apr 7 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-04-07T14:18:15-04:00

I actually expected more. The physical part was fine. The intellectual aspect was less than admirable. Not very challenging when I look back on it.

Response by SrA Daniel Hunter made Apr 7 at 2015 3:37 PM

2015-04-07T15:37:10-04:00

While I enjoyed my time in the Air Force as I approached my end of service I considered transferring to the Army. My desire was to fly on helicopters and be in a position where I felt my contribution mattered. My desire was to be in the fight not 2,000 miles away. I hoped to become a Warrant Officer. One of the NCOs I worked with was prior Army and after discussing my plans with him, I changed my mind. I then looked into options in the Air Force. I found what I thought was a perfect fit. Flight Engineer on MH-53J helicopters and service with AFSOC. After a year of training I went to SERE where I had a seizure. Diagnosed with epilepsy I no longer qualified for flight duty. I enjoy and I am proud of my service. I wish it could have been longer.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Apr 7 at 2015 3:51 PM

2015-04-07T15:51:45-04:00

My first inclination was to go Air Force after seeing "War Games" Then my father wanted me to have my head examined for wanting to be a "button man" living in a missile silo. Then since I couldn't find AF ROTC locally, I said "Army All the Way" and that was that. Never had a second thought or regret about it.

Response by CDR Terry Boles made Apr 7 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-04-07T15:58:30-04:00

Ever since I was a child I was mesmerized about the Navy. All those great movies and on screen characters larger than life portraying experiences unimaginable for a child. I joined the Navy at age 17 and really wanted to be an air controller but I was too young for that rating, so I opted for Operations Specialist with a goal of certifying as either an ASAC or AIC Controller. I was able to meet my goal but along the way my best friend changed rates to the Seabees and encouraged me to do the same. I thought what new adventures awaited me and jumped ship for the ground pounding Seabees as an Equipment Operator. During a stint as a Navy Recruiter I was introduced to the Airedale Navy, brown shoes, and decided the AW rating was for me and flying in S-3s as air crew doing similar work from the get go as an Operations Specialist aboard ship. Needless to say, my dreams of being a brown shoe fell apart when I met my wife who had other plans, the US Air Force.

My new girlfriend yet to be wife was also Navy but had sights on a commission in the Air Force and my life changed forever. After the Gulf War I sought an early discharge, joined the Reserves, and started college. A few years later with a new sheepskin in one hand and my other hand raised I swore into the Air Force as a brand new butter bar, 2nd LT. What a wakeup call the Air Force was to me. After spending nearly 17-years enlisted Navy it was strange to say the least to be an officer but the AIR FORCE. My first duty assignment in the Air Force was at Keesler Medical Center and what a strange land, uniforms, and customs met me head on. Thankfully shortly after my reporting for duty several other brand new butter bars reported in, all mustang officers like me and some from the Navy. It was here that I really learned and lived Air Force, all thanks to my new found mustang officer buddies. I have to be honest though, it did take me nearly 4-years to feel like I truly belonged to the Air Force, but I always had a fondness for the Navy. After several more assignments I knew I had found a new home until I met another former Navy enlisted, now mustang Air Force officer at Yokota AB, Japan. He was in the process of completing an inter-service transfer into the little known US Public Health Service (PHS) and talked up this uniformed service. You guessed it, another adventure was staring me in the face.

Let’s just say, I too did an inter-service transfer into the PHS and what a world it was. I found I could serve anywhere in the world, work in or out of my career field, and pursue any one two three career choices at my discretion. Simply amazing!

Do I regret any of my career choices, no! I miss my buddies but we all know they will always remain buddies and who knows your paths may cross again. I live my Navy days daily by communicating with my Navy buddies via emails, phone calls, and we have our 3rd reunion this year. As to my Air Force buddies some have retired, some are still serving and we talk all the time about our careers and bouncing ideas off of each other. As to the PHS, there are a large number of former military members serving and I have actually served with two of my Air Force buddies at the same command after they had switched to the PHS. I find those former military officers keep a close circle of friends; I suppose it’s from shared similar military experiences. Regrets, a few; but what fun I have had exploring a full career in several different jobs along the way and wearing three different uniforms. The ending of my story yet remains, another 3 years before we plan to call it a career. I wonder what adventures lay ahead!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 4:25 PM

2015-04-07T16:25:33-04:00

It's not what I've expected. In some ways, it's MORE than what I'd expected right before taking The Oath, but then, the longer I've been in, it's been less and less than what it was when I started. Seen some cool stuff, done some cool things, but overall, in some ways, it has exceeded expectations while still somehow managing to be slightly underwhelming.

Response by Sgt Bobby Armentrout made Apr 7 at 2015 5:05 PM

2015-04-07T17:05:54-04:00

I enlisted in the Marine Corps because they offered me the best deal, even though at that point, my dad and most others did not seem to think I was packing all the gear needed to be a Marine. I am reasonably intelligent, but I was a very atypical Marine. By that I mean most Marines are hard charging type A personalities and I am a highly introverted type B who would rather read a book or hop on my bicycle and ride all day than engage in the typical kind of BS that went on in my barracks.

Simply put, the experience forged me into the person I am, but it did not and does not define who I am. I am a long way from the trailer park where it began, and I learned that, within reason, I truly can accomplish any thing I set my mind to. I don't want to go back but I can say with certainty that I am proud of having been a Marine and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to have served with some of the most incredible people I've ever met.

My advice to you would be to learn as much as you can about your interests, your personality, and what your goals are 5, 10, or 20 years from now. You will get more out of your experience if you know going in what is expected of you. Service is not entirely selfless and the selflessness will be required in any branch.

Response by LCpl Kevin Jackson made Apr 7 at 2015 5:37 PM

2015-04-07T17:37:08-04:00

My only regret was not re-enlisting. I loved the marine corps. Dont get me wrong it has it suck and stupid games everyone hates. But all in all. It was an amazing experiance and i wouldnt change it for the world

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 6:12 PM

2015-04-07T18:12:55-04:00

I'm the son of a career Army Soldier/Cav Trooper so my entire childhood was as an Army Brat.
As I considered my own service, I first considered piloting helicopters (as my father did in Vietnam, twice, and for several years later), then Armor (Tanks), as that was his branch as a commissioned officer.
While in High School I considered the Army and Marines as those each had what I was interested in, however after I received my USMA appointment, I told the Marines I was going into the Army.
During my 5.5 years of pre-commissioning training (that's another story!) I still considered both until I realized that I preferred ground combat. Armor was my first choice for an Army Branch and I have had a blast for over 22 years in tanks, mech infantry, mortars, light cavalry and many other assignments.
Looking back, this was the best choice for me and I have no regrets for choosing to be an Armor/Cav Trooper in the Army!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 6:21 PM

2015-04-07T18:21:31-04:00

The army was good start for me. Wasn't doing much before it. But now 8yrs in it's annoying to see that things are geared more towards the image of a soldier rather than the quality. But as a whole the army has been good to me and my family.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 6:31 PM

2015-04-07T18:31:47-04:00

It is what you make of it. I've been a combat engineer for almost 2 years and it has it's ups and downs, but that's with every job.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 6:45 PM

2015-04-07T18:45:30-04:00

Its not easy and its not exactly what I expected, but I've got no regrets

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Apr 7 at 2015 7:14 PM

2015-04-07T19:14:05-04:00

Well, since I didn't want to go to Viet Nam and somebody told me that being a Nuclear Trained Submariner was where the money was along with the best training you can get in the scientific field, it definitely lived up that.

Response by SSG Bill Ploof made Apr 7 at 2015 8:06 PM

2015-04-07T20:06:24-04:00

I spent 30 years in an ARNG Artillery unit. I currently have two children that are in the Army, one is a Captain and one is a LT. One is stationed in Baumholder Germany. Even though I had no active duty time, we are an Army family.

Response by SSgt June Worden made Apr 7 at 2015 9:15 PM

2015-04-07T21:15:26-04:00

Best choice of my life! Although I had a good foundation growing up, the Marine Corps built that foundation into who I am today. I am so very thankful to have served wearing the EGA. Semper Fidelis isn't just a motto... It is a way of life!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2015 9:39 PM

2015-04-07T21:39:37-04:00

No regrets for joining the Navy.. it set the ground work for my interest and career in IT, before there was an IT. However, looking back at joining the AZ Army National Guard in July of 2001..well let's just say hindsight is 20/20. I don't regret it, but the timing was not ideal.

Response by SPC Richard Walsh made Apr 7 at 2015 9:48 PM

2015-04-07T21:48:10-04:00

I miss the job but it's like everything in life ups and downs.

Response by 1SG Charles Hunter made Apr 7 at 2015 9:52 PM

2015-04-07T21:52:11-04:00

You mean you got a choice? I got a letter, reading "From the President of the United States, greeting. . ." I was inducted into the Army on February 29, 1968.

Response by Sgt Mel Ligon made Apr 7 at 2015 10:33 PM

2015-04-07T22:33:55-04:00

Originally, I wanted to join the Air Force to follow my grandfather because he was one of the original Tuskegee Airmen.. but when the recruiter told me I would never be able to fly a fighter plane because I don't have 20/20 vision.. I said "Thanks but no thanks" I then joined my beloved Marine Corps and haven't regretted a day off it since!!

Response by Sgt Jonathan Baldwin made Apr 7 at 2015 11:46 PM

2015-04-07T23:46:43-04:00

There was no decision to make. I wanted the most difficult, most challenging experience possible. I was not disappointed with U.S. Marine Corps boot camp.

Response by PO1 Anthony Foppiano made Apr 8 at 2015 12:21 AM

2015-04-08T00:21:43-04:00

"Join the Navy to see the World" was the old slogan. That is what i wanted, and that is what i got. I wouldn't trade my 20 years, and and 30 countries that i visited for anything.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Apr 8 at 2015 1:31 AM

2015-04-08T01:31:49-04:00

I was the kid the recruiters had to repeatedly ask to "come back when you're old enough." Bottom line: My MOS was selected by lottery --somewhat influence by class standing at TBS. I never thought of going Motor T... 'til the day before graduation from Quantico. However, I really believe that was a good thing. I got to play with more heavy weapons than an infantry battalion. Got to travel the world a couple of times over. And I had the privilege of working our nation's finest war-fighters. My expectations were that I'd 1.) Be a Marine, and 2.) everything beyond pinning on the Eagle, Globe, & Anchor was an absolute bonus. My expectations were, definitely, exceeded. Just to pound the cliché, it all really is what you make of it.

Response by SSG Benjamin Moser made Apr 8 at 2015 3:30 AM

2015-04-08T03:30:11-04:00

I loved the Army. Being an infantrymen was the absolute best time of my life. Wish I could have stayed in longer

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 3:49 AM

2015-04-08T03:49:12-04:00

I always tend to choose the most rigorous path for myself. The Marine Corps was no different. Over the past 5 years, I have been challenged in ways I never thought possible. If I could go back, I would make the same decision every time. The experience I have gained is beyond measure.

Response by MAJ Chris Rice made Apr 8 at 2015 6:02 AM

2015-04-08T06:02:06-04:00

I joined the Army to initially do my four years, get the college money and get out. However, based on my initial decisions and the units I went to I decided to make it a career with the Army and it was the best decision I ever made.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 7:00 AM

2015-04-08T07:00:21-04:00

I joined the Air Force in hopes to work with jets and expand my experiences; both worldly and professional, but being part of the military, I was hoping that it would maintain the "rough and tough" image my father would tell me stories of as a child. Even though things are changing, I still manage to capture it through my senior supervisors who've been in for a while.

Response by SGT Alan Sledge made Apr 8 at 2015 9:10 AM

2015-04-08T09:10:02-04:00

I'll say no to the first question. I didn't know what to expect two years removed from graduation. I was determined, though, because I knew I wouldn't come back the same man.

I knew no matter what, I wanted to go Army. I didn't even inquire about the other branches. I couldn't be a Marine. My personality would conflict with the way some of them talk to each other.

Was it everything I thought it would be? Nah. I can say after eight years that I've made it to be the best I could have and I'm happy with that. I regret nothing.

Response by Cpl Michael Alexander Baluyut made Apr 8 at 2015 9:36 AM

2015-04-08T09:36:40-04:00

The Marines was ultimately what I wanted. Although there were things I wanted more of, I got everything I needed. The Marines definitely shaped my mind and body for the better and gave me knowledge and experiences that will never leave me.

Response by LTC Dave Duffy made Apr 8 at 2015 9:43 AM

2015-04-08T09:43:36-04:00

I selected the Infantry out of the Joint, which was my first choice (ADA got force selected my year). I really loved being a PL, but going Special Forces was the best professional decision I ever made. So regardless of what your basic branch might be, there are options to branch transfer, go SF, or focus on your functional area. However, advice below that "it will be what you make it" is dead on the mark. Good luck.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 9:45 AM

2015-04-08T09:45:24-04:00

I joined the Marines because the navy mos job I wanted wasn't going to let me go asap. So I went next door left two weeks later.

Response by SGT(P) Kenneth Jones made Apr 8 at 2015 9:45 AM

2015-04-08T09:45:30-04:00

Not it was less then expected. Being brought up hearing the stories from my aunt and uncles that were in army and maries i anticipated what it was going to be like trained and conditioned my self for the worse when i went for the marines in 1989 and then stayed conditioned when came into the army in 2009 and was a total upset and disappointment seeing the kids come in and leave with attitudes and chips still in place on the shoulders. To see and watch drill Sgts cringe and bite their tongues and walk away from a soldier when they threw up a stress card. Was a total mund blowing event to see how soft BCT became and how much disrespect from soldiers had towards their trainers. From seeing what BCT use to be and hear the stories of breaking down soldiers and building them back up to what it actually had become was a rude awakening to see what our military had become. If i had to do it over would i not come in no i still would be in I serve to serve my country and the original beliefs of honor in serving our great nation regaurdless of how it has become. I am sorry that those coming that stay soft becaus e the way it has become but it's up to the individual now to make themselves into a soldier of what a soldier should be. To those that do not like my comments sorry its not to disrespect anyone but it is the truth of how the military has changed like the soldiers creed and the NCO creed has simply become that just a creed to say and not live by.. To see NCOs down right throw these out the window and admit to saying its just a creed and nothing more has fueled several disputes of what is a toxic NCO and a true leader. As i stated my comments is not to disrespect anyone but just my view from seeing what was once before to what is now and they way things have become

Response by PO2 Mark Green made Apr 8 at 2015 10:37 AM

2015-04-08T10:37:45-04:00

Navy CB's best thing I ever did!

Response by LCpl Jim Ploucher made Apr 8 at 2015 10:56 AM

2015-04-08T10:56:43-04:00

The USMC recruiters promised me everything!! Once I was through boot camp it became clear that I was lied to! I made the best of my 4 year hitch. It definitely had an impact on my decision to end my time in the military and not persue a career. That being said the experience I recieved while serving has changed my life for the better and I still carry that degree of perfesionalism with me. It has helped me through out my live and made me the man /father/worker I am today. For that alone I am greatful!!
SEMPER FI !!!!

Response by CPL Bill Siggelow made Apr 8 at 2015 12:43 PM

2015-04-08T12:43:44-04:00

I had family members that had served in all the branches of the military, so I had enough information on what to expect when I enlisted for the U.S. Army.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 1:49 PM

2015-04-08T13:49:48-04:00

After my first year in college I found myself very disillusioned and regretting not joining straight out of high school. I was considering dropping out and joining, but managed to wander into the local ROTC office. The PMS talked to me, said I could try out the class with no obligations. Well, after a year, I was sold, I went to LTC that summer and contracted. I never saw myself as a leader, but ROTC really changed me, and I was good at it.

My only real regret was being assessed into the reserves instead of active duty, but, with the wars currently winding down, it is nice that I get to do everything a normal infantry officer gets to do while also being able to focus on my civilian side. Overall, I could not be happier with joining the Army, I would do it again in a heart beat.

Response by Sgt Joshua Seavey made Apr 8 at 2015 1:51 PM

2015-04-08T13:51:54-04:00

My decision was based on difficulty and appearance, but also that my dad was a Marine as well. I wanted to look great, but also have a challenge.

I am beyond happy I chose to become a Marine.

Response by SCPO Anthony Wingers made Apr 8 at 2015 3:38 PM

2015-04-08T15:38:07-04:00

Back when I joined the Navy, it was to have a choice. We would be drafted immediately on leaving high school, so the only real choice was which service you would enter. I was glad I chose the Navy, and I did get what I expected from them. Eventually, after a four year hiatus, I returned and completed a 27 year career. Would I join today's Navy? Probably not. Too much political correctness in all the services, but the Navy seems to be specializing in it. They are doing away with centuries of tradition and pretty much gentrifying what used to be a proud service. Your mileage might differ. Oh, and by the way, you will not be leading soldiers. When you graduate, you will lead either Sailors, or Marines. What are they teaching you at that Academy?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 3:46 PM

2015-04-08T15:46:14-04:00

Joining the Airforce is a tradition we've started. I followed my brother, and my younger brothers will follow soon. Even if it is a different branch, I'll still be proud

Response by PVT Will Bresch made Apr 8 at 2015 3:55 PM

2015-04-08T15:55:13-04:00

No, when I went in, my one drill sergeant was a drug addict and the other was just trying to get along. I went through basic but left, shortly thereafter. didn't see the need to be in . Our company commander walked around with a camera all day. that was about it. waste of my time. thankfully, I was a ghost operator before I went in and went back to chasing drug lords. at least, I knew who the enemy was.

Response by Lt Col James DeLoach made Apr 8 at 2015 4:21 PM

2015-04-08T16:21:37-04:00

I was a Joint Officer so I saw the best and worst of all services.

All are similar in that the CORPORATE CORE it is less rewarding because it is coldly about number of authorized billets, funding & the Service's aggregate goals ("yes Col Snuffy did no wrong but we need to hang someone since this [pick an event] went public"). Out in the operational arms, the focus on dedication, loyalty & service is more rewarding. Neither are wrong, they just deal with different realities ("what you see depends on where you sit.").

With that in mind I loved my timing in the USAF although as a late bloomer, I figured out "the career game" too late but would not change anything regardless. In my case, ignorance (of the sausage making) was bliss. Glad I was focused on the flying and the "story" from training ('fly fight win' etc) and ignored or missed "the game." I hear the same from many friends who were on the same type vector as myself and from those on a much more successful track (O6+). This is true of all services from my observation.

I will say two things stood out to me from 21yr - how did I miss the Coast Guard? Great role & awesome locations! Marines - while they tend to take their recruiting materials too seriously...seem to overall produce the best officers (though they don't need the volume needed by big Services) of the 4 services. Apples to oranges but its worth saying.

So - yes. Loved it & appreciate the other services as well.

Response by Sgt Vaughn Kelly made Apr 8 at 2015 4:36 PM

2015-04-08T16:36:01-04:00

I think so. I kind of knew that I'd be riding a desk for a while, so my decision to join the Marine Corps gave me good reason to get up off my keister and do something. It changed the way I think, the way I eat...and the way I live. I will always be grateful for that, until the day I die.

Response by SGM Lonnie Durand made Apr 8 at 2015 5:20 PM

2015-04-08T17:20:26-04:00

I think in the end it ended up being more than I expected. When I first went my number one goal was to be MP. I checked with three services and only one would guarantee me what I wanted. I ended up doing 25 years, wasn't my original plan. I met my wife during my service time and we raised two children during my career. Definitely more than expected.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 5:21 PM

2015-04-08T17:21:15-04:00

I was 19, going no where fast. I needed some shaping up. The Marine Corps offered me exactly what I needed...a challenge. It paved the way for the rest of my career. I think had I chosen another branch, the results may or may not have been the same.

I now serve in the Guard and it also offers me exactly what I need. I am happy with both of my decisions and choose not to speak negatively about other services, but I know my time in the USN would probably have been quite different, had I chosen that route.

Response by CPT Elizabeth Foster made Apr 8 at 2015 5:33 PM

2015-04-08T17:33:58-04:00

My father was Army, so it was the first place I looked when I decided to ally for an ROTC scholarship. I thought it best to at least check out the Navy and Air force programs, which proved very helpful. I met cadets and officers at three schools, each environment was completely different from the others and something about the Army just felt right. Years later as an Army Nurse Corps Officer, I had the opportunity to serve along side Navy and Air force Nurses and other medical service members, which further confirmed in my mind that I chose the best one for me. I loved every day of my service and my only regret is that I couldn't serve longer!

Response by Cpl Mike Wallach made Apr 8 at 2015 5:34 PM

2015-04-08T17:34:40-04:00

I would say it was what I thought it would be. Unfortunately I broke my foot in boot camp and my contract was null and void so I did not get what I wanted out of be in the service at all. I had decided to join the Marines When I was in 8th grade and thought I would be there for ever. Since I broke my foot my contract changed from EOD to artillery then after only about a year and a half of that they sent me to Japan for security forces guarding naval ordinance for the remainder of my time. Then when I was back to Pendleton to exit the corps they asked if I wanted to reenlist and o handed him a list of MOS' and he said no no no you get to go back to your artillery unit in Camp Lejuene. So I said artillery is for reservists. There's nothing in the real world that artillery can do for you. So I did my four years and got out. But I am still proud to be. Marine and am part of the Marine Corps League.

Response by MSgt Alan Cayer made Apr 8 at 2015 7:06 PM

2015-04-08T19:06:25-04:00

It was AF all the way for me, did not shop around just walked in and joined because my buddy said they had free medical and my wife was pregnant and we had no insurance.
22 years later I retired, landed with a great company and celebrate 31 years of marriage in June. Got what I signed up for and now I have choices that most civilains will never have until they are 65.
Go Air Force!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 8 at 2015 7:31 PM

2015-04-08T19:31:07-04:00

It was a lot more than I expected as a soldier. I had the fortunate opportunities to ride in Black Helicopters, command 4 tanks as a armor platoon leader, command a finance detachment, work with a large NG unit with the mission of preparing and providing national disaster support, and as a Corps budget soldier. What I believe are the tenets to a good career is leadership.

Often leadership is described by a high ranking officer, usually a general or col successful combat operations. That is tactical acumen, however, we are not at war all the time. There are great rewards as a commander, as I had the chance to make an impact on the soldiers. I appreciated the opportunity to set the command climate: work hard, train hard, be technical and tactical proficient, help soldier grow professionally and personally, fight for the soldiers, treat everyone with dignity and respect, uphold equal opportunity and responsibility, AND HAVE SOME FUN. Good luck!

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 7:31 PM

2015-04-08T19:31:39-04:00

http://www.wearethemighty.com/9-reasons-you-should-have-joined-the-air-force-instead-2015-04

9 reasons you should have joined the Air Force instead

You had choices when you showed up at the recruiting offices at your local strip mall. If you didn’t pick USAF you missed out, and here are 9reason

Response by SrA Joshua Hagler made Apr 8 at 2015 7:35 PM

2015-04-08T19:35:20-04:00

The Air Force was not at all what I thought it would be, from Boot Camp to training to being in any of the units I was in. I did have a lot of the old crusty NCO's tell me stories about the good ole days. While I was in, the climate in the Air Force was getting worse. I should of done the army, at least there rank meant something and you are held responsible for your actions. At least from what I saw.

Response by Sgt Cody Hill made Apr 8 at 2015 8:05 PM

2015-04-08T20:05:59-04:00

Being that I'm the only one to join since WWII, I feel honored to represent my family name through the Marines. As difficult as it was at times, no one (I hope) signs the dotted line in hopes of an easy life. It was all the challenges I had hoped for and more. Nothing like being pushed to your limits on a daily basis. Go in with the right mindset, and get out when YOU want to.

Semper Fi

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 8:33 PM

2015-04-08T20:33:18-04:00

I am proud to be a Marine. They have tested my strength and more.

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Apr 8 at 2015 9:16 PM

2015-04-08T21:16:21-04:00

Yes and No. I joined the Army hoping to be a Combat Medic, and that's exactly why I ended up as. Worked in an Aid Station, worked in an FST, had my own platoon. Treated people under fire, went on patrols, all the "Army" stuff you would expect.

What I didn't expect was what to expect of the Army in Garrison. Which consists of mainly picking up trash/cigarette butts, SHARP/EO/Suicide briefings, Layouts etc..... An Army not at war, is just soldiers doing busy work.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 9:16 PM

2015-04-08T21:16:36-04:00

I knew the risk and defaults to my career path so yes it's what I expected and no I did not expect anything different

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-04-08T21:20:00-04:00

To be truthful, I only joined the Navy because I didn't meet the weight requirements for any other branch (I wanted to be a Marine) but here I am 6 years later and I wouldn't change it if i could.

Response by COL Jon Thompson made Apr 8 at 2015 9:47 PM

2015-04-08T21:47:56-04:00

I have been blessed for close to 30 years to have been able to serve as an Army officer. As I am getting close to retirement now, I have been doing a lot of reflecting on these past 3 decades. It has been an amazing ride for me and there are so many things that I have been able to do and places that I have been able to go to that would not have been possible to do with being in the Army. Along the way, I have been able to work with the finest Americans I have ever met. Like the current Army commercials, being in the Army is being a member of the greatest team that I will ever belong to.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 9:48 PM

2015-04-08T21:48:02-04:00

I joined the NY ARNG in 2003, not realizing that I would become to love the Army. I enlisted as a 02M10 (Army Percussion in the Army Band). I thought it'd be an easy gig, and I'd never have to worry about deploying, I'd attend college and get out.
Once I arrived in BCT, I was influenced by my Drill Sergeant at such a high level that I'd consider him to be my #1 reason for re-classing into the Airborne Infantry and going active duty in 2007 after my 18 month deployment to Iraq with the NG band was complete.
Branches will fight, and trust me, recruiters fight for the best/brightest minds in the local schools in which they work. I always do what my recruiter did, and as he said: "If you tell me that you are better suited for the USAF, USMC or Navy after I'm done talking to you, I will gladly give you their number. I want you to be happy in your decision and not regret what branch you chose."
Of course I chose the Army at that point, although there have been times that I wish I chose the Marines because of their level of standards. But I will say this, I am a Paratrooper, I belong to the 82nd Airborne Division for the rest of my life. I cannot say the words "I am a Marine," but I can say that I belonged to "Another Army" which I was told the AA of the 82nd ABD patch stood for. We live to be a higher standard, and I will never deny being a man who chose to jump from a perfectly good airplane into the fight.

~SSG Allenbrand

Response by SPC Donald Moore made Apr 8 at 2015 9:57 PM

2015-04-08T21:57:24-04:00

My dad was in the Army, so I was going in the Army. I LOVED it. Hardly a day goes by that I don't wish that I had stayed in.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 10:04 PM

2015-04-08T22:04:20-04:00

I got much more than i expected.. I gained a confidence in myself that i needed to find... i found my voice i needed to use... i found myself loving every blessed moment that the Army has allowed me to have..

Response by SGT Kristin Myers made Apr 8 at 2015 10:05 PM

2015-04-08T22:05:19-04:00

I wasn't sure what to expect but never gave it a second thought about joining the Army. Both parents were Army Veterans so it was all I knew.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 11:02 PM

2015-04-08T23:02:23-04:00

I never considered anything else.

Response by CPT Jonathan Wickham made Apr 8 at 2015 11:24 PM

2015-04-08T23:24:28-04:00

As I was approaching graduation day from OCS, my tac officer told me to run over to the airborne school office. I had no idea what was up, and when I reported, there was a major there with personnel folders of all my classmates. He said I was the only one in the class who got to choose my branch. I didn't hesitate to say 'Infantry, of course'. I asked him what was going to happen to everyone else, and he showed me a list of all the officer openings. He said he was just going to grab folders and put them in piles for all the branches. I was very glad to make that choice, and it has been more than I ever expected. There were a few sad faces when some found out their career path.

Response by CMSgt R S made Apr 8 at 2015 11:30 PM

2015-04-08T23:30:50-04:00

Made it as far MEPS for the Army but walked out after a series of half truths from the classifications NCO. In hindsight I always felt bad for the recruiter, he apologized nearly the whole trip home.

Never regretted joining the AF, it was a great 23 year career. Tons of opportunities disguised as hard work.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2015 11:39 PM

2015-04-08T23:39:49-04:00

I was to old for the USMC, I get motion sickness on carnival rides and I'm 6'2" so the Navy didn't sound fun, I never really wanted to be a pilot unless it was an A10 so the Air Force was unlikely. I like having my feet on the ground so the Army was a good fit. My recruiter was straight forward with me so I knew what to expect for the most part. I'm doing something I enjoy and my job has a future so I'm happy with my decision.

Response by CW2 Eric Scott made Apr 9 at 2015 12:51 AM

2015-04-09T00:51:29-04:00

I went active Army. My father was a Marine in Vietnam and both my Grandfathers were Army in WW II, I chose mine as a way to get the hell out of my house and the Army seemed to offer the most choices for what I wanted. But in the end neither is better than the others. As much as the Coast Guard may take satire flack they also are probably the most widely used constantly in real world operations. Just serve well and you'll be ok.

Response by Maj William Raney II made Apr 9 at 2015 12:58 AM

2015-04-09T00:58:47-04:00

Good question, I grew up in Denver, so Air force was the choice for someone who wanted to fly fighters. Saw Top Gun, decided carrier aviation was it. Went NROTC, met some MECEPS, and that was it. The courage and commitment of these guys was where I wanted to go. So now I'm a Marine. Bottom line, look at the services, try to experience them, and make a choice that best fits your experience and desires.

Response by Cpl Robert Kafader made Apr 9 at 2015 1:09 AM

2015-04-09T01:09:49-04:00

My Father is a Marine so I followed his footsteps proudly. After 8 years of duty I relinquished my duty. After 911 I joined the Army and thank God they needed a Marines help Semper Fi!!!!!

Response by PO3 Tanis Huston made Apr 9 at 2015 3:58 AM

2015-04-09T03:58:25-04:00

I have read this thread several times try to put fully into perspective my thoughts. I am to this day extremely happy with my choice! However in the beginning I wasn't so much, I had a recruiter that held nothing back, he was always up front and honest! When I first arrived for boot camp though I was in complete shock, I couldn't wrap my head around what I did, it was the hardest thing I had done. Looking back it was really only mind over matter, I obviously survived and looking back it was the best thing I had done. Being fully informed helped those hard days seem a little easier, I will never regret my choice! In the end it really wasn't that hard it wad just something I haven't done before and once I allowed myself to accept that it was hard every step it paved the way to an easier muh more honorable and productive life!

Response by SSG Andrew Neeb made Apr 9 at 2015 9:40 AM

2015-04-09T09:40:43-04:00

Joine the:
Air Force If you want to be a pilot or in the aviation industry.

Army if you just want to serve and you aren't sure how gung ho you are yet. Also if want to go the Special Operations route it has the most options (Ranger, Special Forces, Delta Force, 160th, The Activity or whatever they call them now, and yes there are more. If you go this route try to start out in the Infantry, then go Ranger and work your way up the SOF food chain from there. Spec Ops is also a great industry to be part of after you retire.

Marines if you are gung ho and want everyone in the entire branch to be as well. They have Spec Ops too, but theirs is still fighting for an identity, and I am not talking about Force Recon which isnt part of SOCOM.

Navy if you want to be on ships and in the maritime industry.

This is a very simplistic view of the different bbranches, but there is so much you don't know that it isn't worth getting into it. Every job has its challenges and most are equally important. Think about what you want to do IN GENERAL, and what you might want to do after your time in service is over (combat arms, medical, logistics, aviation, maritime, etc.)Even if you end up a lifer, you will most likey retire a Lt. Col. Or higher (if officer) and will probably go corporate afterwards, many do.

A

Response by Col Richard Donnelly made Apr 9 at 2015 9:50 AM

2015-04-09T09:50:12-04:00

LT: It's a personal decision -- each Service has its own culture. Very apparent to those in, harder to see from the outside. I don't regret staying in the AF (after USAFA) -- great people, cool mission (AF Rescue/Spec Ops) and opportunities to excel. Was it everything I thought it would be? Yes, in that the Academy is a microcosm of the Service -- same good people, professionalism, cool stuff and silly bureaucracy. Regardless of the choice you will be busy. Best, RD

Response by MAJ David White made Apr 9 at 2015 10:26 AM

2015-04-09T10:26:22-04:00

In 1981 I came into the service as an infantry recruit in the ARNG while in college. I felt it was my moral duty to put myself on the line since I believed in a strong national defense, and this was a way I could do so. Honestly, recruitment bonus was part of the decision also, but I was joining the 116th Infantry Brigade, with an honored unit history. I was really naïve, but I grew a lot in the experience. My dad and granddad were disappointed I chose the Army, as they'd both been Naval officers. My enlistment made it easier to get an Army scholarship to med school, and I served 12 years active duty upon graduation. Service as a medical officer in the "real Army" was an ongoing growth experience. I've never regretted my service time, but it was never what I thought I expected. You never know until you've done. Airborne!

Response by PO1 Joseph Glennon made Apr 9 at 2015 10:26 AM

2015-04-09T10:26:57-04:00

Your question might not be reading the way you were thinking when you typed it; however, I'm going to answer the question that you asked:

Choosing my branch (Navy) was exactly as I expected: My grandfather, my uncles, and my cousin all were Navy. They told me what to anticipate at the recruiters, at MEPS, and boot camp. I had no disillusions nor pipe-dreams. I didn't have film- or book- inspired ideas of what it was like... although the "Cap'n Fatso" books come oddly close!

Response by SPC Jeremy Felix made Apr 9 at 2015 10:57 AM

2015-04-09T10:57:10-04:00

I wanted to go air force but my asvab wasn't up to par so the army was my best chance. Would I change it?? Naa, I had loads of fun in the army. Best decision I ever made.

Response by Maj Mike Sciales made Apr 9 at 2015 12:33 PM

2015-04-09T12:33:37-04:00

When making a decision be sure to factor in "tribal culture." Each service is a distinct tribe, with traditions going back many years. Each one has a particular mission and a culture that grew up around it. I did 3 years in the US Army Reserves during grad school (Engineers/Fire Fighter) and I learned a lot about the culture during our summer training and weekend drills. I'm glad I did, it helped me down the road when I was put into a joint assignment. I've worked with Sailors and Marines and glad for them and the job they do very well, I just wouldn't have fit in to that culture. So look about and give this some thought -- not to where you want to be in 5 years, but 20 years down the road when you are 42 and perhaps not as keen to do the things you enjoyed while younger. Enjoy the selection process because you'll be living with it.

Response by A1C Jared Gonzalez made Apr 9 at 2015 12:45 PM

2015-04-09T12:45:37-04:00

Choosing my branch of service was easy. I enlisted slightly after 9-11 because I felt a great pain after some terrible people stabbed at the heart of our nation and was lost in a rage that could not be processed properly by the mind of an 18 yr old. I do however regret not getting a definitive AFSC prior to signing on the dotted line, because my job required a drivers license. Not only did I not have a license but, I was stationed in Germany right out of tech school so I could not get one overseas due to the fact that it would have been entirely too expensive on my meager military pay. I expected much more from the Air Force than what I received, and to be honest, if I could go back and make that decision all over again, I would probably make the decision to get a useful education instead of one that has very few transferable options in the civilian world.

Response by SSG Shannon Brinson made Apr 9 at 2015 12:52 PM

2015-04-09T12:52:52-04:00

I knew what I was getting into my recruiter had his easy "A" wi thjng me. He told me no lies and I gave him no shit.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made Apr 9 at 2015 4:08 PM

2015-04-09T16:08:31-04:00

Back in 1987, my first choice was the Marines. But the recruiter couldn't guarantee an MOS (or wouldn't). Plus they didn't have the old Army College Fund. Since the day I enlisted I've been proud to be a Soldier. I spent my entire career in combat support MOS's -- but always close enough to maneuver or SoF units. My last three years were in Joint Units and I am so glad I stayed ARMY.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2015 4:40 PM

2015-04-09T16:40:02-04:00

No, it hasn't, but then again one of my few mottos I do practice prepares me for that. Expect the worse, hope for the best. LOL

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2015 5:56 PM

2015-04-09T17:56:16-04:00

Meh, Army was the only one who would guarantee I'd be a medic. No regrets. I DO regret 2 active/4 reserve. C'est la vie.

Response by SGT John Faircloth made Apr 9 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-04-09T21:19:15-04:00

I was in the vietnam war from 1970 and 1971-1972 would go back to find my brother and sister.

Response by SPC Nathan Rivera made Apr 9 at 2015 9:33 PM

2015-04-09T21:33:37-04:00

I'm happy with my choice just pissed because of the burn pits taking me out of the service

Response by SSG Melvin Nulph made Apr 9 at 2015 11:46 PM

2015-04-09T23:46:45-04:00

It, believe it or not, was so much better than I told it would be. Unlike some, the head games they plaid in Basic Training wasn't even comparable to the stuff the thing that had me did. Needless to say when the DI's would try to get under my skin by saying something nagitive about her, I got dropped for laughing at it. Until the Sr. Drill had a talk and found some things out about my personal life. He let me know that it was never ment to be personal, they was trying to break me down to build me up? It all stopped after that but they would say silly things like no smiling, with a smile on their face, i would just drop I was happy to be there. I felt like I belonged. I got 3 meals, a bed and cloathing. It was so much better than the things the Vets (that knew my father) told me it was going to be. I think they did enjoy their job at times, but nothing others said it would be.what ever they did or tried doing to me was better than a jail cell I was headed for. Yes I was not a model young man growing up, but luckier than some to know or felt that I belonged. I seen some that just hated everything about, "What we signed up for" they must have come from better homes than the one I was blessed with.

Response by LCpl David Dowling made Apr 10 at 2015 12:17 AM

2015-04-10T00:17:54-04:00

Joining the Marines was the best decision I've ever made

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2015 3:30 AM

2015-04-10T03:30:50-04:00

Ben in 17 years greatest decision I ever made.

Response by SSgt Buddy Essick made Apr 10 at 2015 7:03 AM

2015-04-10T07:03:34-04:00

The Few the Proud!!!!! Sums it up for me.... I do however very much respect any person in any branch whom serves our country.

Response by CPL Jo Ann Hubbart made Apr 10 at 2015 8:39 AM

2015-04-10T08:39:36-04:00

I came in under the student loan repayment option, which, at the time, was only being offered by the Army. All that aside, the Army was a wonderful choice for me. I am proud to have served and grateful for the honor and opportunity to have earned the title "soldier".

Response by MAJ James Fulbright made Apr 10 at 2015 12:59 PM

2015-04-10T12:59:28-04:00

My choice of the US Army was crucial to my success. In understanding the various roles of each service and the Military Occupational Specialties unique to each service, I could then match my service to my talents, gifts, and graces. In my case, I was interested in Special and elite forces like the paratroopers as well as in occupational specialties in law enforcement. I chose service with the 82nd Airborne Division as both enlisted and later, after winning one of the first 25 ROTC scholarships for active duty personnel in 1975, as a commissioned officer. I served with the 82nd until I received an injury that precluded further jumps and was transferred to the Military Police Corps, where I had both a degree in and civilian experience in law enforcement as a deputy sheriff.

Response by PO3 James Hughes made Apr 10 at 2015 5:02 PM

2015-04-10T17:02:06-04:00

The Air Force recruiter would not talk to me at all. He said I was too big. The Navy recruiter was more pleasant so I joined the Navy. My time in the Navy was great however if I had to do it over again I think I would have joined the Marines

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2015 6:33 PM

2015-04-10T18:33:23-04:00

So far, there's tons of stupid stuff but overall I can't complain. Wouldn't be doing anything better outside the navy, that's for sure. And my recruiter was awesome, too.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2015 7:15 PM

2015-04-10T19:15:39-04:00

No thought there would be more use of common sense

Response by SSG Richard Hackwith made Apr 10 at 2015 10:03 PM

2015-04-10T22:03:43-04:00

I was a military brat I knew what to expect. I was born in 1945 and grew up during a time when military service was expected and accepted. As a kid we played cowboys and we played army, we were preparing even then. It was the time of the "draft" and knew that enlisting was the best way to do something you wanted to do. So when the right time came I enlisted for armor Europe and I got it. The only thing that bothered me was only getting six months CONUS duty between overseas tours. Especially when I had a "gravy" assignment as coach of the Fort Irwin rifle team. Looking back I sometime think I should did like one of my tank commanders. He saw the future in 1966 and re-upped data processing equipment repair, he saw the computer age coming twenty years before most of us.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2015 10:07 PM

2015-04-10T22:07:36-04:00

Overall I am satisfied with joining the Army, I originally wanted to be a Marine, but the Army offered me 20k for a sign on bonus, and at the time, money was a big factor in deciding my career path, so I went where the most money was. Although I've had my ups and downs over the last 7ish years, I couldn't imagine doing anything else and dread to think where I could have ended up had I decided against joining in the first place.

Response by SrA Cee Hart made Apr 10 at 2015 10:20 PM

2015-04-10T22:20:13-04:00

I originally wanted to be a Marine but since I was still in high school my parents said no and took me to an AF recruiter, I told him I didn't want a desk job. Next thing I know I'm watching a video of these people four wheeling, snow trekking, and having firing drills...I said sign me up Security Forces was the best for me.

Response by MSgt Larry Sargent made Apr 11 at 2015 12:08 AM

2015-04-11T00:08:22-04:00

I never even considered another branch. I love being a Marine and everything about it.

Response by CPL Jay Freeman made Apr 11 at 2015 3:05 AM

2015-04-11T03:05:37-04:00

My grandpa was 20 yrs navy subs he took me to the navy recruiter I scored 30 on the asvb I needed 31 to get in I moved to Washington walked into an army recruiting office and scored a 35 not proud of my score but I got in I picked cav scouts because I like the idea of working with few people hiding in the woods and having a short chain of command. Other factors where if I had a bomb and was flying around to blow something up would I puck a truck with a few guys in it nope an infantry line or base or tank yep so I picked scouts I loved it and had a great time doing it

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2015 8:24 AM

2015-04-11T08:24:23-04:00

My initial thought was to join the army or marines to follow in my familys footsteps my dad is an E9 inthe army an my uncle is a retired E9 both having cumulative over 60 years with mine years bring up the rear with 6 in the coast guard i love my job and will always defend my country till the day i die and if i so happen to die defending my country then i will die happy!!!!! America greats country and freeest country!!!!

Response by SGT Frank Oliver made Apr 11 at 2015 10:25 AM

2015-04-11T10:25:34-04:00

Actually I had chosen to join the Navy, but because of what my mother had told the recruiter I ended up waiting 2 years and the joined the Army to follow my dad's footsteps.

Response by AN Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-04-11T14:09:00-04:00

I choose the Navy thinking i would be something like a SWCC guy. Im still shootng for that goal since spending almost two years in i realized Spec Op guys really are the cream of the crop as far as commitment t what they do. Not that guys in the fleet arent bad ass or they dont bust their ass, but as an enlisted member i wanted to do way more than what i felt i was contributing. Anyhow im still chasing that goal of being a NSW SWCC guy. Wish me luck guys.

Response by SPC Walter Mullins made Apr 11 at 2015 3:01 PM

2015-04-11T15:01:52-04:00

I have a number of family members who have served in every branch of the sevice except the coastguard. My choice, I dont really remember what happened. I saw a sign for free icecream, got in line, and next thing I knew, I'm headed to basic... That was 2002. I didn't get my icecream until 2004.

Response by LTC Dan Burwell made Apr 11 at 2015 7:02 PM

2015-04-11T19:02:42-04:00

Everything and more! It is what you make it...

Response by SPC Mandii Wagner made Apr 11 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-04-11T21:19:48-04:00

I am definitely glad I chose to go Army. Physically it was less than what I expected. Mentally, it was the push I needed in my life to grow as a strong independent person. I gained so much from my experience.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2015 10:27 PM

2015-04-11T22:27:36-04:00

Extremely disappointed in my disition. The AF isn't at all, in my opinion, a branch of the military. It is 100% and business or corporation. Or at least it runs and opperates like one. Had I know that it would have been like it is I would have done more research before joining. Having said that I am still proud to serve and do my part and do the best I can at it but I'm not a "fan" necessarily.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2015 10:42 PM

2015-04-11T22:42:13-04:00

My dad was in the Army and told me I could only join the Air Force...he said that it was suited more for women

Response by AN Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2015 12:01 AM

2015-04-12T00:01:10-04:00

I expected a lot more than to just paint and clean

Response by PO3 Rebecca Rotundo made Apr 12 at 2015 12:52 AM

2015-04-12T00:52:17-04:00

I chose the navy, for many reasons. Wasn't disappointed. I got more out of it than I ever expected!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2015 1:04 AM

2015-04-12T01:04:10-04:00

Well Being brand new to the military, as far as I can tell I have nothing to complain about. I love my MOS, I love espirit de corps, and I love the fact that I can say I'm doing something more productive with my life than my recently graduated peers.

Response by CPL Aaron Cottingham made Apr 12 at 2015 1:40 AM

2015-04-12T01:40:14-04:00

Army was a done deal for me. As well as my choice to be a mechanic. Mech 116 and a 119 GT

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2015 11:34 AM

2015-04-12T11:34:26-04:00

My recruiter was family, so there was no washing out the truth, he layed it out straight, which made a much easier transition into the Army, but down to it, it's all personal preference.

Response by PO3 David Cowger made Apr 12 at 2015 4:06 PM

2015-04-12T16:06:37-04:00

Not satisfied at all. The Coast Guard boasted maturity and responsibility yet many supervisors, officers included, I was of same if not older than because I enlisted after graduated college had none of those qualities. All the things the service as well as I put it on a pedastool to be was a letdown. Immature and lazy all the way up. So believe it when I say I was injured and never sent to medical and no reports or mishap report made for what was a traumatic brain injury. I struggled an uphill battle but finally got help that was needed. Three command structures said nothing could be doNE. THAT IS GOING UP to 05 on our base. Finally 2 years to get line of duty report. They tried kicking me out twice for weight when medical never listened that 30 lbs in 3 weeks wasn't normal. Then 70 in a few months. Develop many endo problems as result of no treatment to brain injury. All ers referred back to my corpsman who was my initial response and thought I was overreacting. Now I take 13 meds and injections to sustain daily and no one can legally" take blame for neglect. When it came to a medical board PCM tried to argue that cognitive impairments and memory issues weren't disabilitating to be considered. Even longer story shortened... I submitted a lot of info and got medically retired now fighting VA . lol.

I joined all gun hoe let's go get er dun. CG. Puts you down and with as little as it's force is your battling your supervisor at times for position. So he'll do what he can to make you look bad even between e4 and e6 instead of mentoring you. Plus they are pushing our recruiters to only recruit minorities to diversify to force. No longer best qualified get the job, so the coast guard will eventually become less prestige than it is now. 20 yr vets and retirees have seen big changes and they are unacceptable.

Response by CPO Randy Prausa made Apr 12 at 2015 5:20 PM

2015-04-12T17:20:58-04:00

I was just looking for a job and some college money, was making really good money working offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, Texas and Louisiana. But the Carter administration ended all of that. I ended up staying for 24 years and enjoyed pretty much all of it. I wouldn't want to serve under the current administration though.

Response by PO3 James Conner made Apr 12 at 2015 7:17 PM

2015-04-12T19:17:41-04:00

It was a Marine Recruiter that got me to go see a navy recruiter, I became a 8404 corpsman and served with 3/6. I loved the marines but man did I hate the Navy.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2015 8:55 PM

2015-04-12T20:55:03-04:00

I expected more I wish I would've went green instead of blue

Response by 1SG William West made Apr 12 at 2015 10:00 PM

2015-04-12T22:00:12-04:00

I chose the Army because it offered the duty station I wanted and the most selection of jobs. I decided I liked it and continued to allow the Army to renew its contract with me. I served over 24 years in the Regular Army and 10 years in the Army Reserve. I had to get over culture shock of being in the real world as I joined right out of high school, but never looked back. I've had the opportunity to travel places and experience things people only dream about. I've made some great friends along the way. I served with people I didn't like and people who I would do anything I could. Bottom line, your experience is what you choose to make it! Good Luck Cadet!

Response by PO1 Michelle Carpenter made Apr 12 at 2015 10:23 PM

2015-04-12T22:23:58-04:00

Out of all of them Coast Guard was right choice.

Response by SPC Larry Smith made Apr 12 at 2015 10:34 PM

2015-04-12T22:34:31-04:00

Yes it was. Although I found out more than I expected. The Army does not take care of it's troops. Those with the know like to mislead you. The ones you can count on are the enlisted & warrants. Your comrades in arms are the ones to trust. Major command has it's mission & doesn't care about the individual. I loved it all the same. Just try and make the best of it. It is an awesome experience.

Response by 1stSgt Curtis White Sr. made Apr 13 at 2015 12:35 AM

2015-04-13T00:35:02-04:00

The USAirForce was Everthing I thought it would be and much much more. Be Dr did I believe I would have.been so involved in so many different thing and met my wife who was active duty also. The experiences I had fill me with a lifetime of pride of having served.

Response by PO3 Jeff Lane made Apr 13 at 2015 2:42 AM

2015-04-13T02:42:06-04:00

I loved my choice of the Navy! So many good times, so many good friends. It was everything I hoped for and more. No regrets at all!! Id do it again if they'd let my 49 year old self back in!!!

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2015 6:42 AM

2015-04-13T06:42:01-04:00

I was in both Army and Navy JROTC, I felt like the Army was a better fit for me. Needless to say most of my family has served in the Army, so as to choosing the specific branch I was raised in an Army family and I grew to love it. As for what I expected the military is what you make it, you will only get what you put in no matter what so that would all depend on goals you set for yourself.

Response by CWO3 Donald Dunn made Apr 13 at 2015 4:11 PM

2015-04-13T16:11:15-04:00

Choosing the Marine Corps was everything I expected and then some. Already having two older brothers serving at the time I enlisted and seeing how the Corps was positively impacting their lives, it was a decision I made without hesitation. Reflecting back on a very rewarding 20-year career, I am very thankful for the tremendous experiences serving this great country as a U. S. Marine.

Semper Fi

Response by PFC Stephan Ellis made Apr 13 at 2015 5:54 PM

2015-04-13T17:54:27-04:00

No regrets except my ex-wife (may she rot).

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2015 6:12 PM

2015-04-13T18:12:14-04:00

I was really pleased to see the Air Force has the most bestest chairs. I earned those arm rests and I know how to use them. FACT!

Response by PO3 Robert Brown made Apr 13 at 2015 7:26 PM

2015-04-13T19:26:50-04:00

There is a naval tradition in my family so that decision was easy.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2015 8:33 PM

2015-04-13T20:33:49-04:00

I wanted to serve, but I have several tattoos. The Army is who would let me commission, so here I am.

Response by MAJ JohnK Wright, V made Apr 13 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-04-13T21:20:07-04:00

Everything I it would be. I went through the 2 year Army ROTC program in college. Went to a 6 week Basic Camp at Fort Knox that gave me credit for first two years of ROTC. I had 4 choices for my Branch, and I got Corps of Engineers which I loved being part of. I was a Mathematics Major so I guess that helped. I remember working with a CPT at Fort Bragg who was an Engineer Officer, but her major in college was English, go figure. My Dad is a Retired Air Force Master Sergeant. My Grandfather was an Army Engineer Colonel in WW2.

Response by Sgt Doug Dillon made Apr 13 at 2015 10:12 PM

2015-04-13T22:12:44-04:00

I had a great time in the Air Force and picked up a great career from my training in civilian life.

Response by SGT Marika Waiters made Apr 14 at 2015 1:49 PM

2015-04-14T13:49:19-04:00

I chose the Marines first because I figured, if I was going on, might as well go big!the Corps was everything I'd hoped for! At first I hated it, but then fell in love. When I had to switch services and go in the Army (personal reasons which required me to go home to Germany), I was broken hearted. I had very low expectations of the Army, but it was okay - not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Granted I went to war with the Army, and thankfully did not have to stay with the MI unit that provided our corps asset section with brands & bullets. Whew! Bullet dodged. LOL

Response by Sgt Robert Jolley made Apr 14 at 2015 6:11 PM

2015-04-14T18:11:25-04:00

I joined the Marine Corps and went to Parris Island just after my 18th birthday and spent 12 years in Combat Engineering and Infantry. I would not trade it for the world. Adversity builds character.

Response by Cpl Eric Tavarez made Apr 14 at 2015 7:12 PM

2015-04-14T19:12:16-04:00

I walked into the recruiting office at the age of 17 and made a B - line into the Marine Recruiters office. I said "Please don't try to sell me anything. I'm to here to join the Marines. Just tell me what I need to do in order to go to Parris Island? ". Sgt. Gonzalez's face just lit up and he couldn't stop smiling at me. Lol
I watched the moto videos of grunts hitting the beach from both AAVs and Xodiacs. I already wanted to go infantry but these videos sealed the deal. Funny how none of the Marines ever seemed to be cold or freezing their b@lls off the way we froze our b@lls off when we did beach raids or waited in mock ambushes while soaked and wet. Sgt. Gomez also forgot to mention the long humps in the humid North Carolina swamps in Camp Lejeune or the hills of Camp Pendleton California in full gear and with a full rick. He never mentioned things like sitting in a fighting hole watching all of the traffic drive south bound on the I-5 wondering if they were headed to San Diego or Tijuana on a Friday or Saturday night or being home sick while on a ship during deployment. Sometimes it sucked being a Marine Grunt. Sometimes it was really tough, both physically and emotionally. Sometimes I thought to myself, " Damn, I volunteered for this $hit?!"
Although it was sometimes not all fun and games, it was all worth it and if asked to, I would do it all over again!
I'm physically and mentally tougher, I'm disciplined, I'm a leader and it all carried over to my law enforcement career.
Semper Fi Marines...
Yuuuuugggggghhhhhhtttttttt!!!!!!!

Response by SFC Stephen King made Apr 14 at 2015 7:38 PM

2015-04-14T19:38:32-04:00

in a trailer when we first started and I saw all aspect of Enlisted to Officer. My Dad was a limited duty Officer and a "mustang". This expirence soldified that I was not going into the Navy.

Once I went to college the desire to serve became greater than Education so I slowly indoctrinated myself into the Army on the Missouri National Guard. Desert fox and later Desert Storm was the reason I choose the to go Active Army. 22 years later I look forward to being a part of a team and the 1% who serve their country in society.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 10:09 PM

2015-04-14T22:09:02-04:00

honestly the only branches i seriously looked into was the navy and air force. i spoke with others but had no desire. everything i knew of the service was from those who were prior enlisted and spoke of the military of how it used to before this "new navy". Its disappointing in some aspects. Though i will never regret my decision nor wish to take back any of the memories ive had the opportunity of making since ive joined 4 years ago.

Response by SSG John Ponton made Apr 14 at 2015 10:20 PM

2015-04-14T22:20:51-04:00

I joined the army because the navy could not billet me for over a year

Response by SPC Dennis Rutledge made Apr 15 at 2015 12:56 AM

2015-04-15T00:56:00-04:00

I'm satisfied with my choice to join the USA

Response by SSgt Eric Wingrove made Apr 15 at 2015 12:11 PM

2015-04-15T12:11:57-04:00

If I had it all to do again I would've went Coast Guard. For Political reasons if at any. Protecting our Borders and assisting folks who have cam upon a need for help would have been a better way for me. But at the time I enlisted I didn't even know about the Coast Guard as a way of life. I was living in Central Ohio where there was no influence,

Response by CPT David Landrum made Apr 15 at 2015 2:04 PM

2015-04-15T14:04:34-04:00

I had been to Germany as an exchange student and spoke German. I chose the Army because it offered the best chance to go back. I ended up enlisting to be a Russian linguist and spent several years in Germany, so that met my expectations.

Response by TSgt Russell Haddock made Apr 15 at 2015 2:17 PM

2015-04-15T14:17:46-04:00

I wish I was still in the military everyday..

Response by SPC Anthony Davis made Apr 15 at 2015 4:34 PM

2015-04-15T16:34:40-04:00

I'm knew exactly what I was going in to, I joined shortly after my father joined. So like most Military Brats, we normally follow the steps of our parent that was in.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 6:02 PM

2015-04-15T18:02:54-04:00

The army made me the man I am today. Was going down the wrong path and the army fixed that real quick best decision I made!

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 7:11 PM

2015-04-15T19:11:28-04:00

I love my choice to become a Marine.. Though I've had less than a "Marine Corps" career. After MCT at Camp Geiger I went to a Naval base in Florida for Training, follow-on training at an Air Force base in Texas then got stationed on an Army base where I work for a outside civilian agency while living in Air Force Barracks. Kind of a sweet gig to get all the perks of the Marines while enjoying the life of the other branches.

Response by SPC Jeffrey Cuthbertson made Apr 15 at 2015 8:47 PM

2015-04-15T20:47:53-04:00

Got what I expected.

Response by Cpl John Henry made Apr 15 at 2015 11:45 PM

2015-04-15T23:45:24-04:00

It's pretty much as I expected..I had an honest recruiter. What I realized when I got out and after all the years that have passed is how much of a brotherhood the Corps is. The vast majority of us are tattooed with it and even to this day Marines celebrate the Marine Corps birthday regardless of how long they served or how long ago. Semper Fi

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 12:53 AM

2015-04-16T00:53:03-04:00

My relatives were all over the place with which service, (if any), I should join.
Dad & his mom wanted me to join the Navy.
I really wanted to join the Marines like my maternal uncle did.
I tested for every service, the recruiters all told me: "Anything, Anywhere son".
I finally decided to start off part time in the Idaho Army National Guard.

Response by Sgt Larry Gordon made Apr 16 at 2015 7:40 AM

2015-04-16T07:40:44-04:00

Honestly, I never knew what to expect. I was glad my recruiter was honest with me and told me everyone's experience differs and no matter what I tell you, it will never prepare you for your own experience. That may be vague but it was a simple truth that didn't give me any false pretenses or unrealistic expectations.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 8:37 AM

2015-04-16T08:37:53-04:00

I like my job I chose it to learn a skill I had some experience in but wanted to learn more

Response by TSgt Liza Kazee made Apr 16 at 2015 12:01 PM

2015-04-16T12:01:16-04:00

I went in knowing that the AF was the only branch of service I wanted to join. I spoke with the recruiter, took the package home to fill out and didn't follow through. a couple of months later I was waiting tables and was asked by the manager to work a longer shift in order to assist with a large party coming in. As I rounded the corner to the back room, there sat 35 AF recruiters. I figured it was a sign and went back to the recruiting office the next day. I was informed at MEPS that I would be going in to the Security Forces career field. I nicely explained that if they had no medical jobs open then I they could call me when they did. They found a job for me and a week later I was on my way to Texas. The AF was everything I thought it would be and more.

Response by MSgt Dwyane Watson made Apr 16 at 2015 12:11 PM

2015-04-16T12:11:18-04:00

Having been deployed with the Marines in Kuwait I am so glad I went into the Air Force. Marine maintainers showed up with tools in milk containers and everything was so haphazard. The Air Force has their act together when it comes to aircraft maintenance.

Response by CMSgt David Wedington made Apr 16 at 2015 5:46 PM

2015-04-16T17:46:30-04:00

Yes!

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 6:42 PM

2015-04-16T18:42:37-04:00

I initially has aspirations of joining the marines, then I though coast guard. Briefly considered the air force, but due to my weight, and the interest of local recruiters in such a small area, the navy was the only recruiter to give me time of day. That being said, there was my involuntary decision. However. I don't regret a second of it and couldn't see myself happier anywhere else.

Response by LCpl Craig D. Pfautz made Apr 16 at 2015 6:54 PM

2015-04-16T18:54:54-04:00

I was very happy with the choice I made, I joined the Marines. Yes it was everything I thought & then some...
OOHRAH!!!

Response by SGT Josh Rhoden made Apr 16 at 2015 8:52 PM

2015-04-16T20:52:00-04:00

I enjoyed my time in the NAVY, my recruiters didn't have a clue about submarines and they did not try and BS me on it either... they actually told me "we have no idea about anything in the sub fleet" I enjoyed my time there but my rate was flooded with E-5's and they were content to stay E-5s (star program), and we E-4s had a hell of a time advancing due to the E-5s not making E-6. They also would not let me change rate due to "critical job"... so I left. 10 years later I joined the Army National Guard to go to Iraq and Afghanistan. That was a mistake... not Iraq or Afghanistan, the Army. Going from the NAVY to army was bad, the submarine fleet is loaded with top notch people (yes there are exceptions to that rule), but the army was filled with less than stellar people, especially those in command. Too much brown nosing, and back stabbing so the buttsharks can advance and the good people get screwed over. The Army was totally unprofessional from my point of view. Maybe it would have been different had I joined the regular Army, but as it stands I am more proud of my NAVY time than my army time.

Response by FN Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 9:44 PM

2015-04-16T21:44:05-04:00

I love my choice as well. Every now and then I wish I had joined a boots on groin branch. On the other hand who wouldn't be proud to serve the worlds finest navy!! Hoo yah!!

Response by SGT Corey Thomas made Apr 16 at 2015 11:28 PM

2015-04-16T23:28:55-04:00

Family history for me

Response by SGT Christopher Berry made Apr 17 at 2015 6:59 AM

2015-04-17T06:59:07-04:00

The army was my father because i had none the army was and what they taught me carried me till now so i am very greatful to the army as a hole you have some officer that come out of ocs thinking they know every thing but there supprise they dont but aside from the few people that became officers the army was a great experince. Thank you to the army for beening there for a young man in need of a dad i hope you for fill more young men dreams oohra

Response by SSG Bruce Sorge made Apr 17 at 2015 4:46 PM

2015-04-17T16:46:19-04:00

I am very happy with my choice. I will admit my first choice was the Navy, but they had a longer waiting list than the Army. After being in the Army for almost 20 years (with a 13 year break in the middle), and having friends who were in the Navy, I am very glad I chose the Army. The stories they told me about life on a ship was enough to show me I made a good decision. There was no need to sell the Army to me. My mind was made up and all I wanted to do was sign papers and ship out. I thrived from day one. My only regret is getting out after 12 years, but I came back in and will retire this year VERY PROUD of the Army and my service.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Apr 17 at 2015 4:49 PM

2015-04-17T16:49:03-04:00

SGM John Mangels. I give up trying to figure it out so I'll just ask. Was there a reason for the down-vote for this topic?

Response by MSgt Leonard Ward made Apr 17 at 2015 6:24 PM

2015-04-17T18:24:07-04:00

I entered the Air Force at 17 and had my first Vietnam tour while 18. I received my draft notice while stationed at Vung Tau, but my CO wouldn't let me go to appear. I spent 22 of the best years of my life in the Corps. I changed career field twice and was successful in both of them. The opportunities that I received at various stages of my growth would never have occurred in a civilian job. The travel opportunities and opportunity to be part of different cultures was astounding. The service is what you as an individual make it. If you are motivated nothing can replace it.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2015 9:14 PM

2015-04-17T21:14:09-04:00

Well i decided to surpass my friends, family and peers so i chose the marine corps, it is alot more chill than i originally planned it out to be but at the same time it still sucks, just stay positive and have fun with your carrier and stay motivated. OohRah
Semper Fi,
PFC Givens
20150417

Response by CAPT Stu Merrill made Apr 17 at 2015 9:31 PM

2015-04-17T21:31:30-04:00

We are all "cut from the same cloth". Who could reasonably know all the career-long implication of a decision made at 18 years of age. Hopefully, folks feel that they are able to excel within their chosen Service.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2015 11:38 PM

2015-04-17T23:38:39-04:00

I always knew I would join the army it's in my blood. Dad was in his dad was in even my great grandfather. But it was not what I had expected. Turns out the army is a bunch of misfits that just seem to mesh together. It's very much like a family and that's what I love about it.

Response by Maj Joseph Osborne made Apr 18 at 2015 7:09 AM

2015-04-18T07:09:28-04:00

Great question. I'm second generation USAF, my father is a retired E-8, and I grew up knowing only the AF. It was pretty much as expected, but I question if I'd go the same route again. I was a bit too "Type A" for my own good sometimes, a trait better suited to the Army or USMC from what I've seen in my friends in those branches. But, there's a bit too much adherence to rank for me there, I appreciated the ability to (respectfully) question my bosses in the AF. As for the Navy, I've never, ever, ever met a single Navy member (out of the 100+ I've met) who enjoyed going to sea...kind of ironic, no? That leaves the USCG...great service if you want to stay in the States and have a great mission. Not joking, I became friends with several in Norfolk and I was envious of what their branch can do, as well as the small size. Finally, you have the Guard. I was in a blended AD/Guard unit for 7 years and have a lot more respect for them than I ever thought I would, but that is entirely dependent upon the unit climate. So...now that I've rambled and gone far afield, I'd say overall, AD USAF was the way for me to go, but just barely. I think you need to talk with officers, NCOs, and enlisted from each branch and try to make the most educated decision possible.

Response by COL Jeff Williams made Apr 18 at 2015 8:00 AM

2015-04-18T08:00:34-04:00

I grew up sitting at the dinner table with my Father telling us about his time in the Atlantic and the Pacific as a member of the US Coast Guard. I knew I was always going to join one of the services. Not sure why the Army, never really looked at anything else. I did consult the Coast Guard Academy at a college fair, but my grades and SAT didn't quite match up. So it became the Army, and for me not a bad decision.

Response by SFC Adam Miller made Apr 18 at 2015 8:22 AM

2015-04-18T08:22:03-04:00

Joined as a Junior in High School and retired 32+ years later. Best job I ever had!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2015 3:40 PM

2015-04-18T15:40:40-04:00

I'm satisfied with my decision to join the army but I'm now seeking information about submitting an ocs packet

Response by Maj Shawn Vandenberg made Apr 18 at 2015 4:36 PM

2015-04-18T16:36:47-04:00

USAF was the only branch I considered and I thoroughly enjoyed all 23 years!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2015 5:42 PM

2015-04-18T17:42:27-04:00

Of course army has been apart of the family forever so it was easy to choose and now that im a fister its even better! Everyone loves the fisters haha

Response by SGT Edward Edmiston made Apr 18 at 2015 5:45 PM

2015-04-18T17:45:39-04:00

Saw the movie "Platoon" and wanted Army Infantry. Proud, but should have gone Coast Guard.

Response by 1LT William Westervelt made Apr 18 at 2015 8:57 PM

2015-04-18T20:57:18-04:00

I enlisted when I was 27 with the goal of commissioning. I chose the Army because their commissioning age offered me a chance to meet that goal. My enlisted time was more than I hoped for and turned out better than I could have planned. My experiences and training set me far apart from my peers and continues to as I begin this new phase in my career. It was definitely more than I expected, but everything I hoped for.

Response by SPC Jason Coleman made Apr 18 at 2015 9:08 PM

2015-04-18T21:08:55-04:00

I joined the Army, it was pretty much everything I expected. My recruiter went to school with my oldest sister, so he told me how everything truly worked.

Response by TSgt David L. made Apr 19 at 2015 3:28 PM

2015-04-19T15:28:01-04:00

I didn't know much about the service or my job so I didn't expect much. I was pleasantly surprised nearly all the time. The excitement of my job made the years speed by way too fast. I would change a few things but for the most part I would run with it just like it was.

Response by SSG Stoney Penn made Apr 19 at 2015 4:24 PM

2015-04-19T16:24:38-04:00

The Army (Military Police) was a no brained for me. My Grand dad was a SFC (MP) in WWII.

Response by SSG Donald Haley made Apr 20 at 2015 12:23 AM

2015-04-20T00:23:36-04:00

Not at all. I wanted to be a soldier so very much that I still can recall that WTF look my recruiter gave me when I walked into his office and told him here I am, sign me up I want to join the infantry and before long I found myself at FT. Benning, GA

Response by SPC Aaron Deshane made Apr 20 at 2015 1:36 AM

2015-04-20T01:36:38-04:00

Thats a hard question to answer . I enlisted back in 1999 the army wasnt my first choice . First choice was the marines . Was rejected cause they made the quota for GEDS early that quarter . I went in the army strictly to be a paratrooper . I never jumped after jump school . It was a lot less then I expected but still a good experience

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2015 8:13 AM

2015-04-20T08:13:12-04:00

Honestly I'm satisfied with my decision to join the Navy, but one thing I looked for was the strict coherence to rules and rank. I wasn't expecting it to be as care free as it is. I look at my Marine counter parts and although they have an entirely different outlook the respect in the open even between the junior ranks is what I expected from Navy as well.

Response by FN Alan Jepsen made Apr 20 at 2015 10:41 AM

2015-04-20T10:41:31-04:00

I joined the Navy because at the time we were in peacetime and whereas the Army, Marines, and Air Force were just doing maneuvers; the Navy was rescuing people from sinking ships, evacuating people in storms, and helping out with disasters. I figure if I was going to serve like other members of my family did; I wanted to be doing something.

Response by SPC Ian MacEachen made Apr 20 at 2015 2:58 PM

2015-04-20T14:58:54-04:00

Everything I expected and more-some great, some not so great, but overall it was a fantastic experience-wouldn't change any of it!

Response by A1C Clayton Graybill made Apr 20 at 2015 5:48 PM

2015-04-20T17:48:25-04:00

My decision to join the Air Force, was a long thought out decision, I talked to the Army recruiter, Marines and finally Air Force recruiters before making any choice, but I was satisfied with the choice and became an aircraft mechanic!

Response by SFC Luis Jordan made Apr 20 at 2015 8:20 PM

2015-04-20T20:20:23-04:00

I absolutely love the Army and my time served has been very rewarding both in service to my country and skills I have attained and learned. If I was to have to do it all over again...I most definitely would! Everyones experience is very different but you make of it what you want to take out of it! I never worried about the things I could not controlled and excelled in the things that I could. It's a great choice if you so decide to join. "Airborne"

Response by Cpl Patrick Reade made Apr 20 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-04-20T21:20:03-04:00

Life as a grunt in the marines sucks. Yes it sucks. But I couldn't be more proud to have been fighting next to the men I was blessed to call brothers. Every good charactorstic (and bad) I gained from my marine corps experience. Wouldn't trade one second

Response by SPC Genesis Vailu'u made Apr 21 at 2015 1:44 PM

2015-04-21T13:44:29-04:00

Yup it was like living at home. I would do it all again

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 21 at 2015 2:28 PM

2015-04-21T14:28:55-04:00

My plan was to join the Army as a Warrent Officer Pilot but after taking the ASVAB, the Air Force Enlisted Corps hunted me down and had me enlist and then commission through them.

Response by SPC William RT Tyler made Apr 21 at 2015 4:51 PM

2015-04-21T16:51:04-04:00

Originally growing up I wanted to be a Marine. I listened to my grandfather and his stories of B29s in the South Pacific. Dad's stories of Vietnam. I had a rough idea of the Army and it was pretty m och what I expected. If I had to do it over again, I wouldn't change a thing.

Response by GySgt Paul Heern made Apr 21 at 2015 7:20 PM

2015-04-21T19:20:42-04:00

Yes I grew up as an Air Force brat. I wanted to work on aircraft, the Air Force was too specialized. The Navy said I'd have to spend 60% of my time at sea. The Marine Corps said that they were so small I'd have no choice but to work on the whole air craft.

Response by PO1 Frederick Combs made Apr 21 at 2015 7:53 PM

2015-04-21T19:53:10-04:00

The Navy Seabees was a choice I made after checking out the Airforce. They really didn't have a career path in the construction trades that interested me. Once I got past the initial boot and training, the whole concept hooked me. It just wasn't a job and it wasn't just an adventure. It was different. We didn't just train to take the hill or Kill the enemy all the time. we built for good causes that benefited our neighbors. I wouldn't trade it for any other branch of service even if you paid me..

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2015 8:04 AM

2015-04-22T08:04:35-04:00

Army was only option for me and so was the infantry wanted be be less than that 1%

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2015 9:01 AM

2015-04-22T09:01:35-04:00

I didnt plan on joining the military. My brother was going into the Army and I had a athletic scholarship to Oregon State. The week my brother shipped out for Ft. Benning, I had went to the recruiting office with my brother- I walked out of there with a MEPS date. I loved the Army, and I dont regret the decisions to join.

There are a few things I wish I could do different: 1) I wish I would had chosen a different MOS- I would pick MP... 2) that I didnt get injured on my 3rd jump in Airborne School. 3) I really wish I would have deployed. 4) My biggest regret is that I got out.

Response by PO1 Danny Gutfeld made Apr 22 at 2015 12:41 PM

2015-04-22T12:41:59-04:00

If I had to do it all over again, I would have still chosen the USCG, but I would have chosen to switch rates back in 86 when I had the opportunity to do so.

Response by SGT Michelle Griffin-Franks made Apr 22 at 2015 2:04 PM

2015-04-22T14:04:48-04:00

I didn't have a clue I know I just wanted out of Phila Pa

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2015 3:54 PM

2015-04-22T15:54:30-04:00

When I joined the navy I had absolutely no clue what to expect but figured it would be slow and laid back. 7 years later and I've done far more then I thought I was going to get to do and absolutely love my decision to join the navy as a combat corpsman.

Response by SPC Christopher Simpson made Apr 22 at 2015 4:28 PM

2015-04-22T16:28:05-04:00

I deeply regretted my choice. I know we are not suppose to complain but it wasn't anything i expected. BUT i would do it again if i had to because it did do a lot of good in my life.

Response by CPL Matthew Yates made Apr 22 at 2015 4:28 PM

2015-04-22T16:28:47-04:00

I went to MEPS with the intent of being a Marine...scored too high on the ASVAB and the recruiter wouldn't offer me Airborne school, so I asked the Army what was the hardest thing they had...he showed me a video of a Ranger coming out of the water fully camo'd up and I signed on the dotted line...bound for Regiment...

Response by LCpl Brandon Barnes made Apr 22 at 2015 7:31 PM

2015-04-22T19:31:46-04:00

I actually went back and forth before joining. I wanted choices on entering the service, and I looked at the Navy, Army, and the Marine Corps. I always had a fascination with the Navy and still do to this day, but my father was a Corpsman in Vietnam and made it very clear that he thought I'd hate the Navy as an enlisted man. The Army quite literally promised everything I asked for on paper. The Corps promised nothing. They wanted me to be what they wanted. Period. When I told them the Army had promised me a particular contract, the GySgt merely smile and pointed across the street to the Army depot and stated "Then go over there and join them. It's your career." So for a few months that's exactly what I did. Then my father found the company historian for Fox 2/7, his unit in Vietnam. Within days we were getting phone calls for Doc Barnes. People came down to visit, drove cross country, flew in from Canada once, and when they got here, it was as though they'd known each other every day for those last 30 years. And every one of them spoke more of the Marines than anything else. Some were successful businessmen, some were high ranking law enforcement, and everything in between, but when asked what they were, they didn't say "Chief of Police," or "CEO of whatever," or "Doctor of this." Unanimously, they would respond with Marine. The reverence in which they held that institution, the confidence with which they handled any situation, and the brotherhood they exhibited, that made me rethink everything. I began to question relatives and friends and family friends about the Army. I searched, hard, to find all of these things. And, no flies on the Army, I could find some. Some people still identified as soldiers and were very proud. Some were extremely confident and still had military bearing. Some maintained friendships, albeit never to the degree I witnessed with the Marines. None, however, exhibited all of these things together. By contrast, every Marine I met did. Being stubborn, I felt like I could not just walk in and change my mind. I vowed to stand by my decision. But that Gunny's words kept eating me. It was my career, after all. I realized that no matter how much I immersed myself in the Army, no matter how much I tried, every time I saw a Marine I would feel like I'd made a mistake. I would wonder what it would be like. Sure, it would be a fleeting moment, but I would be doomed to repeat it over and over for the rest of my life. I joined the Corps, and not once have I regretted that choice. I've met Marines who regretted the military as a whole, but that's not an institutional damnation. Point is, I got what I wanted, but it wasn't what I thought I wanted. If you feel any sort of nagging regret, you need to analyze it. That doesn't apply if that regret is fear of pain or tribulation, but you get the idea. Good luck. I sincerely hope you are as happy with your choice as I was with mine.

Response by 1LT Orion LaPalm made Apr 22 at 2015 7:39 PM

2015-04-22T19:39:45-04:00

When I joined the Army National Guard in 1984, the nearest Guard unit was in Gladstone, MI within half an hour from my home. At the time, I didn't know the ARNG had different branches because the only units in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan were the 107th Combat Engineers. I signed up after my three brothers had joined and were going to leave me doing all their farm work for the Summer. I joined three months later and we all left for basic training together at FT. Leonard Wood, MO. It was our first plane ride. Now I have a ton of stories to tell about being in the service with my three brothers (and one sister). How cool is that!

Response by GySgt Ken Norwood made Apr 22 at 2015 8:41 PM

2015-04-22T20:41:11-04:00

I joined the Marine Corps in 1968 I retired August 1990. There were only 2 days I did not love being a Marine, the day I decided to retire and the day I retired!

Response by LCDR Kenneth Badget-WY made Apr 23 at 2015 12:44 AM

2015-04-23T00:44:37-04:00

I was raised on a cattle ranch in Western Wyoming an the Navy seemed to be a better place than pushing cows. I joined in 1965 - boot in SD - then off to IC A school. After A school went to VN as a telephone specialist and was there from early 66 to late 68. Got out and everywhere I looked for a job they asked me if I was a VN vet -- I was and they did not need me. Went down saw the recruiter asked if I could get my rank back and sub school. He got it - I went back in and never looked back. Made SCPO and was offered a commission in 1979 - took it and had a ball. Major commands were the USS Constellation CV-64, Dir EM/IC schools in GLakes and USS Wisconsin BB-64. Beings that I retired as a LCDR -- well the Navy was alright by me. I think it boils down to you get out of anything what you put into it.

Response by SGT Kristin Wiley made Apr 23 at 2015 3:26 AM

2015-04-23T03:26:52-04:00

I work in a JOINT environment, so I'm still trying to figure out which branch I'm in. It clearly isn't the Army, because all Army regulations have been tossed out the window.

Response by PFC Timothy Ahern made Apr 23 at 2015 4:57 AM

2015-04-23T04:57:01-04:00

It was exactly what I expected

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 11:47 AM

2015-04-23T11:47:16-04:00

I know I haven't completed my first contract but joining the army schooling wise (AIT) I did have a little more expectations when it came to discipline and respect I'm not to sure about operational army but once I get out of the TRADOC environment then I'll be able to express my opinions on what I think about the Army. But so far so good!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 12:44 PM

2015-04-23T12:44:05-04:00

While I did not get the job I wanted, I have never regretted my decision to join the Air Force. My uncle served 26 years in the Army, the last 9 of which as a recruiter. When he found out I was looking to join the military, he informed that my only options were Air Force or Navy. If I even considered Army or Marines he was going to find me and kick my ass. Seeing as a former Army recruiter was telling me to avoid the Army, I took his advice to heart. I didn't want to spend the rest of my life on a boat or a submarine, so Air Force was the only option left for me. Sorry coast guard, as TSgt Hunter Logan mentioned in her post, I did not even realize at the time that you guys were a branch of the military. Thought you were more on the lines of a police dept. branch for the water...

Response by SSG Osguardo Velez made Apr 23 at 2015 3:15 PM

2015-04-23T15:15:40-04:00

I chose the Army, and i went Airborne, home is where you make it!

Response by SPC Walter Adams made Apr 23 at 2015 4:21 PM

2015-04-23T16:21:18-04:00

I was going in the Marines w/ my best friend on the buddy system but the recruiter began joking around swimming! I got up & he asked, "where are you going"? I said, "down the hall to the Army recruiter"! Best move I could have made!! Thanks Sgr. January!!! Still remember that cat's name!

Response by Pvt Robert Botkin made Apr 23 at 2015 5:30 PM

2015-04-23T17:30:06-04:00

It wasn't what I thought it would be, but that's really my own fault. If I wanted to see combat I should've gone infantry.

Response by SGT Craig Knutson made Apr 23 at 2015 5:48 PM

2015-04-23T17:48:37-04:00

I considered the Coast Guard briefly, but always had Army in my mind as both my Dad and Grandfather were Army Vets.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 7:35 PM

2015-04-23T19:35:54-04:00

For me it was a decision of who could get me out of this po dunk town the fastest... kinda screwed myself...only regret that I have is that when i came back from my deployment young stupid and full of money and got myself into a bit of a whole financially that is now comming back to bight me in the ass... if only i knew what i was doing back then i would be in a different spot now.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 7:40 PM

2015-04-23T19:40:27-04:00

I actually expected more, but in 1971 I was naïve. I wanted to be a fireman and thought I had that job waiting for me when I finished my basic training ( C-1-1 ) at fort Jackson . However, when I got to fort benning when I told my sergeant I was suppose tobe a fireman, he laughed and handed me a M60 MG and said " you can be a fireman..you can put out massive fire with that machine gun..now git out of my sight rookie..

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 9:38 PM

2015-04-23T21:38:22-04:00

I have no regrets and I wouldn't change it

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2015 11:34 PM

2015-04-23T23:34:26-04:00

It was everything I expected and more. I have no regrets.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Apr 24 at 2015 3:48 AM

2015-04-24T03:48:22-04:00

My enlistment in the Army was "everything" I wished it would be and more. My only regret is that I wasn't able to serve longer.

Response by CW3 Richard Mann made Apr 24 at 2015 7:42 AM

2015-04-24T07:42:04-04:00

I was 17, came from a broken family, pretty much homeless with barely a high school education. I spoke with the Navy first but somehow I ended up in the Army! I think the Navy didn't want me at 17. I enlisted to be an MP but it turned out the Army said I was too young to be an MP but they had a slot for me in armor! I needed a home and a job so I took it! Best job I ever had!

Response by Capt Todd Patterson made Apr 24 at 2015 7:41 AM

2015-04-24T07:41:58-04:00

Everything and more. It wasn't a cake walk, but a valuable life experience.

Response by MSG Patrick Dickensheets Sr. made Apr 24 at 2015 11:44 AM

2015-04-24T11:44:12-04:00

I started in the Marines. Did 4 years. Went in The Army. Did 4 years. Went in the Army Reserve. Jumped over to the Naval Reserve after 5 years. 6 months later I went back in the active Army and retired 2 years ago. Semper Fi and Hooah!!

Response by LCpl Tony Harrison made Apr 24 at 2015 12:19 PM

2015-04-24T12:19:00-04:00

All I ever wanted to be from my earliest memories was a U.S.Marine and it was everything I hoped it would be . I'm truly blessed to have been a member of our beloved Corp

Response by LCpl Jessica Chaney made Apr 24 at 2015 4:01 PM

2015-04-24T16:01:28-04:00

I got exactly what I expected and loved every minute of it. I signed up for the Marine Corps because it was the hardest and best service. I worked along side of some Marines while I was in the Sea Cadets and they were actually exepting of us (even though we were just anoying kids) thats when my final decision was made. I thank them for their time and incoragment for us young impressionable kids thet they took care of.

Response by SGT John West made Apr 24 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-04-24T20:28:53-04:00

I began by taking the ASVAB as a junior in High School. My GT score was high and all the branches but the Air Force began calling me. I went into the USMC office, but my dad always said "The Marines? They're good son, but there's a reason they're called 'The Few, The Proud, The DEAD' with his emphasis on dead... Gallows humor and he was retired USAF, he didn't want me to go there.

I followed up on an appointment with the Army, the recruiter shoveled me a line about how I was the top 10% and could do anything I wanted. I wanted medical or tanks, I ended up in MI! HAHAHA! It could have been worse I guess... I spent some time in Germany during the Fall of the Berlin Wall and that was exciting. I have great memories. I wouldn't trade a single one, but I wouldn't go back and do another day unless our country was in a declared war.

Thank you all of you who currently serve, especially in the middle east. Keep your head down and ammo dry.

HOO-AAHHH!

Response by SGT Hassan Bryant made Apr 24 at 2015 9:31 PM

2015-04-24T21:31:39-04:00

At first, I wanted to join the Air Force. All during high school, that was all I talked about. Playing drums and joining the Air Force. During my first semester in college, an Army recruiter approached me on the street. His first words to me ever were "Hey, you want to go blow something up and get paid to do it?" My answer was "Hell yeah!" Those were the best 10 years of my life! I traveled the world twice, did some things none of my friends ever did, seen more things than most of my friends have ever seen, and lived in 7 different countries for more than 8 months. I would do it all again, if given half the chance!

Response by MSgt David Heil made Apr 24 at 2015 10:13 PM

2015-04-24T22:13:21-04:00

My Dad was in the Army and for years he told me not to go in the Army. I went in the Air Force intending to do four years and get out. Twenty-three years later I finally got out.
Was it what I expected? It far exceeded my expectations and you really do get back what you put in. My military time allowed me to continue my career post retirement.

I wish you luck in making your choice.

Response by SPC Jeffrey Bly made Apr 25 at 2015 8:35 AM

2015-04-25T08:35:33-04:00

Like anything else, you get out of it what you put into it.

Response by SGT Kevin McCourt made Apr 25 at 2015 9:06 AM

2015-04-25T09:06:58-04:00

I started out Army NG in my hometown. It was a great beginning. I ended up becoming a full time recruiter, and really enjoyed being in green all day. I ended up going active Army. My family had been Army. Dad, tanker in Korea, step dad, AAF in WW2, brother Army. It was just the natural way to go.

Response by SPC Michael Andersen made Apr 25 at 2015 10:43 PM

2015-04-25T22:43:39-04:00

Yes I feel that I made the right choice. I made a lot of friend and memories, and would do it all again. Good luck In your choice and enjoy the journey.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2015 11:14 PM

2015-04-25T23:14:35-04:00

I think I speak for all Army 13F's... If we knew the TACP Air Force MOS existed we wouldn't have hesitated to take it. In retrospect of course hah

Response by SPC John Levine made Apr 25 at 2015 11:24 PM

2015-04-25T23:24:15-04:00

The day I graduated I put those magazine cutout in the mail. 1 for each branch. The first one that showed up I said I was joining. A few days later a Ssg. Fortson showed up in green class A uniform. A few months later I was in Fort Leonard Wood. I year after I graduated I was heading to my first of two tours to OIF.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2015 2:09 AM

2015-04-26T02:09:48-04:00

Eh, I guess it depends. I never expected the cleaning as much as we do. I've been in student status so long, I don't know what I expect sometimes. But I know I love being a Marine

Response by Sgt Garret Hawkey made Apr 26 at 2015 10:50 AM

2015-04-26T10:50:27-04:00

I went in going for grunt, then had to switch it to combat engineer, didn't realize I was 1100/1300 combat utilities, and could have been anything with an 11 or 13 in front of it.
I ended being a gas pumper, so wasn't exactly what I expected job wise.

It met my expectations and more.
The skating concept I wasn't expecting, and I enjoyed.

Response by PO2 Johnathan Kerns made Apr 26 at 2015 1:11 PM

2015-04-26T13:11:16-04:00

Before joining I considered all branches of the military, except for the Air Force, not sure exactly why. My main goal was travel and I figured that I'd have the best opportunity for that in the Navy. It worked out well for me, 8 countries in 4 years lol.

Response by PFC Brittany Braa made Apr 26 at 2015 2:26 PM

2015-04-26T14:26:11-04:00

I was trying to get into the Air Force office, but the Marines were the door just before theirs, they astounded me with their confidence and uniforms and I was hooked.

Response by SGT Valerie Pinder made Apr 26 at 2015 4:28 PM

2015-04-26T16:28:00-04:00

It was a job, an experience. I was trained to do a job, how to fire a weapon, and at the end, I had to be retrained so I could find a job when I got out. It's all in how you handle things I guess you could say. Good luck!

Former Army SGT,

Valerie Pinder

Response by LCpl Phil Rowlands made Apr 26 at 2015 5:05 PM

2015-04-26T17:05:53-04:00

I joined the Corps in '82, hoping to pay Iran back for '79. While in, I got to watch them pile on more debt for Beirut. In that regard, no, things did not turn out as I had hoped. Otherwise, with all due respect to veterans of the other branches, I still feel that I was a part of the elite; the elite branch of service, and (Recon) the elite of the Corps. No-one can take that from me, Socrates said so! I do deeply respect the vets from all other branches. Remember that you are those one in a thousand who were willing and able to serve, at the least. For those who accomplished much, that's like being Olympic medalists. But we all made the team, no matter what our sport (or branch, in this case) and that's much more than most can say!

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2015 6:51 AM

2015-04-27T06:51:50-04:00

I would have to say that I didn't go in to the Air Force expecting anything. I knew from a young age that I wanted to join the Air Force, really no idea why the Air Force in particular.

Response by Cpl James Rodgers made Apr 27 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-04-27T15:58:48-04:00

I talked to an Army recruiter and a Marine recruiter. I went with the sexier Dress Blues uniform and joined the Marines

Response by PO2 Charles Gaskill made Apr 27 at 2015 5:49 PM

2015-04-27T17:49:33-04:00

It's not that I didn't have a choice but at the time I decided to join the Navy, my Grandfather and step Grandfather had been in the Navy, and three cusines were already in the Navy. Not to mention I always wanted to be on an Aircraft Carrier! I got my wish, got to work on F14 Tomcats and served on three flat tops!

Response by SPC Stephanie Magnani made Apr 27 at 2015 8:01 PM

2015-04-27T20:01:27-04:00

I originally was going to the AF, my mother didn't approve. I was 1mo from turning 18. She wouldn't sign the papers. I told the recruiter to call me back on my birthday. He agreed. A wk after I turned 18, a recruiter called & asked when was I ready to join. I told him tomorrow. We got off the phone, once we agreed on a location to meet & go over my options. I walked in thinking it was the AF recruiter I was meeting. To my surprise, it was the Army. I went to MEPS the same wk & had my orders. (I did research & weighed my options before I jumped on the army wagon. I, not for 1 second regret my decision. I would do it all over again.

Response by CWO3 Donald Snyder, MAM, PMP made Apr 28 at 2015 10:18 AM

2015-04-28T10:18:02-04:00

Family history of service going back to a Capt in the Pennsylvania militia (circa 1770); I was the first Marine. It wasn't so much a choice of service as a calling to achieve greatness! Why would anyone chose to do less?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2015 11:15 AM

2015-04-28T11:15:52-04:00

Thats a tricky question, actually i like being in the army, i just don't like most of the people being in the army.

Response by SFC Randall Atchison made Apr 28 at 2015 12:09 PM

2015-04-28T12:09:49-04:00

My MOS was the worst there was! I was a 54E. I would have rather been anything other than 54E! I initially enlisted to be a 45B, Small Army Repairman. Recruiter put me in as a 76Y telling me it was about the same as 45B but had "a little" supply in it too! I hated that MOS! I volunteered for EOD and really liked that job, however my wife at the time ruined it for me and I was volunteered for 54E. The rest is misery, I mean history! I spent my entire Army career wishing I had joined the Navy like my Dad!

Response by PO2 Kasey Kadinger made Apr 28 at 2015 1:28 PM

2015-04-28T13:28:29-04:00

I chose Navy, it turned out to be so much more than I could have hoped for.

It some of the best memories of my life

Response by PO1 James Bettison made Apr 28 at 2015 2:02 PM

2015-04-28T14:02:03-04:00

I wasn't really serious about joining, just seeing what was available. I considered the Navy because my dad had been in. As soon as the word submarine came out of that guy's mouth, I was ready to enlist. I was considering being a lifer, but my career was cut short by a motorcycle accident. I loved what I did, loved subs, although I occasionally wished we pulled into more exciting places. My recruiter was brutally honest with me all during the wait for boot camp, I didn't care - I knew I was going to be a submariner.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2015 2:27 PM

2015-04-28T14:27:25-04:00

Yes

Response by MSgt Stuart Fowler made Apr 28 at 2015 2:52 PM

2015-04-28T14:52:17-04:00

I chose the Air Force and loved it. Not everything in life is all you wanted it to be, but I had a ball!

Response by SPC Alan Inthapatha made Apr 28 at 2015 7:00 PM

2015-04-28T19:00:40-04:00

Originally tried to enlist into the Marine Corp but got turned away at MEPs due to having tattoos. Got referred to the Army that same day and had no regrets. I will always love being a soldier.

Response by PO3 Michael Linehan made Apr 28 at 2015 7:43 PM

2015-04-28T19:43:00-04:00

I was originally going to follow in my Father and uncles footsteps 26 years Army. I walked into the recruiters office one day and told them I changed my mind and that I would be joining the Navy. I do not regret my decision. My Grandfather was in the Navy during WWII . I enjoyed my time in.

Response by SGT Johnny Owens made Apr 28 at 2015 9:05 PM

2015-04-28T21:05:56-04:00

I knew I was going Army, I just thought I was going Infantry/Airborne with a cohort unit to Hawaii with $8,000 and my pal. He backed out, I failed the Airborne physical due to my ears, and the $8,000 bonus was revoked. I became a truck driver. Fortunately I spent five years in a Field Artillery unit. I wouldn't change a thing :)

Response by CPO David Baldwin made Apr 28 at 2015 9:57 PM

2015-04-28T21:57:41-04:00

I planned on the Navy all along. I first took the oath in 1977 in High School, but a sport injury before reporting for active kept me out for many years. Oddly finally went active 9/11, 1984.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 2:43 AM

2015-04-29T02:43:48-04:00

I had been told that the Air Force treated their personnel better and there is more room for thought in the Air Force. In this respect I believe that was accurate. I have a substantial bit of experience working with the Army and therest is definitely a different environment when it comes to thinking on your own. It boils down to needs of the service and traditions.

Response by PFC Ken Kerrigan made Apr 29 at 2015 4:15 AM

2015-04-29T04:15:28-04:00

I chose to find a path apart from my father. He was USAF and I was tired of being in his shadow.

Went from tightly whiteys to boxers, another big boy step. Just said fuck it when they were issuing my olive colored underoos in basic.

It's such a cathartic thing; those first decisions. the power over one's destiny; I miss it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 4:32 AM

2015-04-29T04:32:16-04:00

I expected basic training to be a bit more difficult based on all the movies, but the Army has turned out to be what I expected.

Response by PO1 Donald Kennelly made Apr 29 at 2015 11:08 AM

2015-04-29T11:08:56-04:00

My folks were both in the Army, my grandfathers in the Army and Coast Guard, great uncle is Paul Tibbets, my brothers were in the Air Force and Marines, sister in the Guard, brother in laws in the Marines and Army, nephews and nieces in various branches.

I chose Navy for two very specific reasons: Top tier electronics schools and the ability to see the world via ship.

I have been to every continent (exc Antarctica) and sailed most of the seas and oceans of the world in my 20 years. I've worked on surface combatants, aircraft carriers, submarines and aircraft. I finished out my 20 with JSOC doing the green thing. I did everything that you can do in the service and if I were to go back to make a choice, I would choose Navy again.

Response by SGT William Owens made Apr 29 at 2015 11:12 AM

2015-04-29T11:12:37-04:00

My Dad and Grandfather were all in the Army so no was an easy decision.

Response by PO1 Andrew White made Apr 29 at 2015 3:33 PM

2015-04-29T15:33:31-04:00

Absolutely. When I joined the Navy, a lot of people were really surprised because I've always had an interest in aviation/aircraft and talked about joining the Air Force.
When the time came to really start looking into what was available to suit my interests, turned out the Navy had way more opportunities to fly as an Enlisted Aircrewman than the Air Force did and guaranteed the slot as long as you passed all the reqs and schooling. Besides that, I didn't want to be stuck in one spot, based in the mid west some where for a full tour...funny enough, my second tour in the Navy put me stationed at Tinker AFB, OK flying on E-6A/Bs. Who'd of thought???
I also found that the Navy was more well rounded when it came to your MOS, you didn't just work in one area of expertise (especially as a Flight Engineer) you were allowed to work on and learn all the systems of the aircraft.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 5:48 PM

2015-04-29T17:48:18-04:00

When I joined at 19, my first option was Navy, for the travel appeal and because so many of my friends at the time were wary of the Army.

However, at the end of the day, the Army recruiter was the most welcoming lol. I haven't regretted the decision at all. Way more options for females and I had the opportunity to do a lot of things I never thought I could or would do.

Response by SSgt Charles Edwards made Apr 29 at 2015 5:48 PM

2015-04-29T17:48:06-04:00

I looked at three different items that set the criteria for selecting the Air Force. First, the opportunity to do what I wanted to do. The job of a Security Forces member is not appealing to many, but it was something I wanted to do. After 10 years, I held certifications in six different job titles. Second, I wanted to travel. I didn't get stuck at one base and spend my entire career there. I served at four duty stations that encompassed three continents and didn't exceed four years. To say I got my fill would be an understatement. I saw many unique things and had the distinction of closing two bases back-to-back (Rhein-Main AB & NAS Keflavick). Finally, there was the education factor. A couple of courses within my required training earned me college credit, but I really didn't get serious about school until my tenth and final year of service. All in all, I got everything I expected and more from choosing the Air Force.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2015 5:50 PM

2015-04-29T17:50:57-04:00

I mean I've only been in the Air Force for a little over two years now, but I am loving every single day of it because of all the people I have met and the experiences that I have had.

Response by Cpl Luke Smith made Apr 29 at 2015 5:59 PM

2015-04-29T17:59:56-04:00

I had the Army recruiter come to my house and give me their whole recruitment process before I threw them out of my house as I wasn't interested. However a year later when college wasn't living up to the expectations a Marine recruiter literally picked me off the street (I was walking home from work) and I was standing on the yellow footprints about a month later and I don't regret it for a day.

Response by SGT Henry Marmion made Apr 29 at 2015 6:25 PM

2015-04-29T18:25:16-04:00

First choice was Army. Wouldn't of had it any other way.

Response by LCpl Steve Turnbow made Apr 29 at 2015 11:07 PM

2015-04-29T23:07:43-04:00

Army recruiter dicked me around for nine months. Walked next door and joined the Marines.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 7:24 AM

2015-04-30T07:24:16-04:00

It is exactly what I hoped for. I have no regrets. I was in the AF for a short period and never really felt like a true soldier. I joined the Army to be a pilot and I got
everything I bargained for.

Response by Cpl Tim Alger made Apr 30 at 2015 11:36 AM

2015-04-30T11:36:59-04:00

I went to the recruiters office to enlist in the navy like my other family members and my best friend. When I walked in the navy was "out to lunch"!
I thought (not to hurt any feelings. I was 17 at the time) Why settle for the navy? I went and banged on the door of the next office and became a Marine. I never regretted it, but I did question my sanity a few times in boot camp.
It's been 26 years since I stepped on the yellow footprints at P.I. And I'm still proud to say, IM A MARINE!

Response by SPC Aaron Woods made Apr 30 at 2015 1:58 PM

2015-04-30T13:58:57-04:00

I was planning to join the Navy like my uncles. Grandpa forbid it and said Army. Some one in this family will go in the Army In each generation. So there I went.

Response by PO3 Michael Donnelly made Apr 30 at 2015 2:11 PM

2015-04-30T14:11:46-04:00

Yes I was very happy with my choice of the Navy, I truly got to see the world

Response by SGT Chip Hutchings made Apr 30 at 2015 5:17 PM

2015-04-30T17:17:15-04:00

I was just a dumb kid. My thought process for each branch was something like this. if I'm not going to be flying jets why be in the Air Force, didn't want to go on the Navy because If your ship sank where do you go, did not want to be the first guys in combat so the marines were out. I figured the army was a good place to go. I told myself I was not going to go into the infantry. The recruiter offered me airborne and I jumped on it. The recruiter said airborne infantry it is. Like I said I was just a dumb kid. I enjoyed my time and I feel I'm a better person for it.

Response by PO1 David Beland made Apr 30 at 2015 6:18 PM

2015-04-30T18:18:59-04:00

Had a bunch of teachers who were former military (all branches) and loved the stories but it was my advanced biology teacher that peaked my interest in the Navy. DEP'd at 17, went active at 18 and never looked back.

Response by SPC(P) Christopher Cooke made Apr 30 at 2015 10:35 PM

2015-04-30T22:35:53-04:00

My story is funny. I went to the all in one recruiting station to sign up for the Coast Guard at the ripe old age of 18. When I could'nt find the office I popped my head into Army office and asked where they were. He told me you don't want to join the Coast Guard you paint channel markers in Alaska.

The rest is history.

Response by PO2 Rick Godejohn made May 1 at 2015 11:01 AM

2015-05-01T11:01:55-04:00

At 275lbs, a navy recruiter chief wouldn't even talk to me.
His second class did. Put me on a regimen. When I came back in at 240 and fit, I walked right past that chief and signed into the navy nuclear field.
The branch was never a question. Navy like my dad before me. I'm a proud fourth generation veteran who believes everyone should serve. I will discuss it with my four daughters when the time comes.
It means that much to me.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2015 8:55 PM

2015-05-01T20:55:33-04:00

Joined the Army in an aviation MOS 67U back in my day, CH-47 Chinook Repairman. Tried for Warrant Officer candidate school but back in those days you needed 20/20 uncorrected. Aced the Fast but the vision held me back. I got off the CH-47 after a class A mishap which destroyed the aircraft in the post crash fire. Did the remainder of my time a fixed wing unit.

Don't regret my decision to GO ArMY. I have been working in aviation for over 36 years.

Response by PO3 Steven Costa made May 1 at 2015 9:12 PM

2015-05-01T21:12:12-04:00

I wanted more but the chain of command has favorites and there was a lot of abuse of authority and over looking of conduct at my shore command hated it

Response by SPC Brandon Soileau made May 1 at 2015 9:29 PM

2015-05-01T21:29:03-04:00

Since I was 16, I was a die hard fan of the Marines. So one day,I got a wild hair and decided I wanted to join. Well, before I went to the recruiters office, my uncle (former Marine) got a hold of me, and discouraged me by telling me how hard it was, and that I wouldn't be strong enough to "hack it". So instead, I joined the Army. Despite how much I love the Army and my prior service to it, I kick myself to this day for not trying my hand at the I will always wonder if I would have been man enough to "hack it". w

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2015 7:13 AM

2015-05-02T07:13:35-04:00

Army Active Duty was the best. I've been in the Reserves and National Guard Reserves. I liked the Reserves but still didn't get recognized. National Guard again took a lot of my years to get recognized. Point is they would rather get some sex off a winer dead beat Citizen Soldier. Conciatenous objector or I want a nice car crying little baby. Can they work? NO. That would mean they would have to call the IG.

Response by LCpl Christopher Mayen made May 2 at 2015 7:16 AM

2015-05-02T07:16:12-04:00

Served in 3 branches over a span of 10 years. All of them the same pretty much but i would i like the army better than the marines

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2015 1:13 PM

2015-05-02T13:13:11-04:00

I wanted to be Soldier since I was 13, though I once considered the Navy cause I grew up in a Navy town, but they turned me away when I told them I was already talking to an Army recruiter. I still went Army, and I have no regrets!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2015 4:39 PM

2015-05-02T16:39:27-04:00

First I do not know why you were down-voted and secondly I signed up for the Air Force because my dad was in. He served in Korea, Vietnam and Thailand and a majority of my family has served, even my own daughter in the Army,

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 4:51 AM

2015-05-03T04:51:33-04:00

I already had the gouge from my older brother. I knew I was joining the Navy and no other branch. I procrastinated when it came to going to see the recruiter. He talked me into coming down by offering free pizza, I joined for free pizza. The pizza was good so, yes, it was everything I thought it should be.

Response by Sgt Nick Marshall made May 3 at 2015 6:46 PM

2015-05-03T18:46:08-04:00

For the most part yes, extremely challenging, not a ticket for benefits.

Response by LCpl Michael Carter made May 3 at 2015 11:30 PM

2015-05-03T23:30:28-04:00

Uncle Sam's Misguided Children
I expected to be pushed harder in boot camp. But, I pushed myself harder than i should have and have the plate in my leg and scars to prove it. I gained 51+ pounds of muscle in boot camp and broke my femur not a year later during training. That was over fifteen years ago and I still frequently sing cadence in my head. Maybe I should see a shrink. :)

Response by PV2 Donald Morgan made May 4 at 2015 6:24 PM

2015-05-04T18:24:44-04:00

I originally wanted to go to the USMC.
My father was a Marine, so, I felt obligated to do the same. After my ASVAB and visit to MEPS I was told that (at the time) I was too old to go to the Corps, as their cut off age was 28 and they wouldn't be able to get me into Boot Camp before my birthday a few weeks away. Plus, I wanted a specific MOS and they informed me that there was no guarantee, other than job field...so, while I may get Intel, I wouldn't necessarily get CI.

Enter the Army - they could take me right then, and give me the MOS I wanted based on scores and of course completion of training. It was up to me to not fail out.
I wouldn't say I was disappointed - I mean, I got everything I wanted for the most part...however, after EASing and taking up a role working with the USMC, I see how much I missed out on the kind of comradery they share.
That, I think, is my biggest disappointment.
It truly was a different experience.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2015 9:44 PM

2015-05-05T21:44:19-04:00

I always wanted to join the military, and for much of that time focused on the CG. When it came time to choose, I talked to almost everybody else, just in case. My father was Air Force, so that was a serious consideration. The Navy offered me a really good pipeline. But I ended up sticking with the Coast Guard as I felt it would be the most satisfying start to finish. I have no regrets. There's times I wish we had the overall pride of the Marines, the resources of the Air Force, the specializations of the Navy, and the unit structure of the Army, but the grass is always greener and the CG has the most things I'd wish for if I were on the other side.

Response by CPL L J made May 6 at 2015 12:01 AM

2015-05-06T00:01:57-04:00

I expected a bit more from them. Seemed like when I injured my back and hip they decided I was less than human. Instead of following my doctor's orders they did everything they could to undermine the care I was receiving. As a result, I have permanent back and hip injuries with nerve damage. Prior to that time I loved the Army.

Response by SFC Julian Whatley made May 6 at 2015 12:26 PM

2015-05-06T12:26:35-04:00

It was my only choice. My Uncle was an SFC stationed in Germany and I wanted to be like him. Signed up and never looked back.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2015 2:41 PM

2015-05-06T14:41:46-04:00

Flip a coin and move forward.

Response by SPC Jon Quist made May 6 at 2015 9:48 PM

2015-05-06T21:48:05-04:00

No it was not what I expected, but more. Two of the units I was in we did a lot of goofing off. FT.Sill 225th Maint.co. & 536th Maint. co. Shcofield Barracks Hawaii. even though I was always in a maint. co I wished we had more realistic combat training & more real qualifications on different weapons. When I was in Hawaii is when Desert Storm broke out we were on standby to go but did not get the call to go, so we never got to put our skilss to test in a real combat situation.

Response by CPL Andrew Zenobi made May 6 at 2015 11:59 PM

2015-05-06T23:59:50-04:00

like everything in life, it is not what you expect. That does not mean it is bad. I was in a lot of sports, so the Army was easy for me. I already had the mindset needed. I would do it over again, if I could.

Response by SGT Richard Stowers made May 7 at 2015 4:41 PM

2015-05-07T16:41:33-04:00

I originally was going into the Marines. Was training up with them. Then an Army recruiter came to my school. I think I was drugged because next thing I knew, I was in basic wondering where my hair went.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 4:44 PM

2015-05-07T16:44:24-04:00

I got more than I thought. The key to success in any branch I believe is by using the tool bag that they equip you with. The Military gives you the tools for success, but it is up to the individual to use them. I love the Navy and if I had to do it again I would still choose Navy.

Response by A1C Ronald McKenzie made May 7 at 2015 10:31 PM

2015-05-07T22:31:03-04:00

It was the Vietnam Era and I had a low draft number so I knew I was going to be in the service. I figured I might as well pick my fate and decided to base it more on the type of training I'd be getting.
I did know, at the time, that the air force had the highest level of technical training (not to infer it is still so), and I figured it was going to make my time in service more valuable to me. Once I was station somewhere I found that the level of technical knowledge needed was less than I thought.

As for the military culture, I actually had no idea what to expect.

Response by PO3 Shelliann Washington made May 8 at 2015 8:33 AM

2015-05-08T08:33:37-04:00

I have always been a very determined woman. The Navy was the only branch I had considered. I called the recruiter's office and the rest is history. The only advice I got going on was from a prior Navy recruiter who said on Day 1 "when you go to the galley, stick to fruit, whole grain cereal, yogurt, and juice/water." He said I'd understand why later. I'm so glad I took his advice... But that friend also made sure I didn't have false expectations or "promises" that I should expect to be fulfilled. Best decision I could've made, after choosing Christ.

Response by CPL Pappy Groves made May 8 at 2015 12:39 PM

2015-05-08T12:39:54-04:00

I started off on the Navy, regretted getting out, and wanted back in. Unfortunately, the Navy wasn't taking Prior Service at the time, so I went to see the Marines...... No Prior Service allowed there either! So, I wound up in the Army. I enjoyed both Branches for different reasons! Unfortunately I was unable to finish out my career due to injuries. But wouldn't trade the experiences for anything!

Response by Cpl Nikki Reynaga made May 8 at 2015 11:59 PM

2015-05-08T23:59:49-04:00

My stepfather suggested air force. The recruiter was lazy, uninformative and continuously flirted..
Navy recruiters seemed to never be in the office and the Army wasn't in the area.
Gunny Strokos was straight up about how much the Marine Corps would suck. I appreciate a straight forward approach to a car salesman any day.
...
He was right ;)

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2015 8:27 PM

2015-05-09T20:27:04-04:00

I actually joined the service I hadn't even thought about. I had never given the navy a thought but I'm so glad i did now I get to be a plank owner of the most advanced warship in the world's greatest navy!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2015 11:50 PM

2015-05-09T23:50:27-04:00

I was firefighting at the time, I then went Navy Reserves and this was right when we went to Afghanistan. I did not get my Billet that I wanted in the Navy Reserves and I had always made a vow that if I ever got to the point that if the Emergency Medical side ever became a "job" I would quit. I never got picked up full time on a fire department and I burned out working for a private ambulance service. I talked to my Navy Reserve unit and they agreed that if I wanted they could let me go Blue to Green (although not actually Blue to Green because it was not Active Duty to AD). I made the determination that it would be more fun to take lives than save them, so I went and talked to an Army recruiter and they offered me Armor. I shipped a month later. I was Iraq bound seemingly the next day, but I got in right in the middle of Rapid Deployment. I earned a lot of being blown up, lots of firefights and a TBI. I do not regret it, I came out to Hawaii because I was chasing a deployment to Afghanistan but got off loaded literally the day that we were going to draw RFI for it.
I came in with the goal of achieving the same rank as my dad when he was in, I have done this and I will get much further before I get out (if all goes well). I was not really as prepared for all of the crazy "hey yous" but I learned to simply adjust fire on it. I got to make Tanks go boom, I got to do a lot of things that normal people never will get to.
The thing that I would say is the hardest thing, is that people say that they hated deployments, but I was most comfortable there, it was simple, get up, go on mission, stay alive, go home, get a nap do it again.
So yeah the Army has given me everything that they said they would and then I have dealt with the crap that they have given me that they never tell anyone about, because if they did NO ONE would join.

Response by SrA Paul Jones made May 11 at 2015 10:42 AM

2015-05-11T10:42:39-04:00

I come from an Army family, so I was all set to join the Army, but all of the former soldiers in my family told me, "Don't be stupid, go Air Force."

In no way do I regret my time in the AF, but I will say, during pre-deployment training, living on Ft. Riley, and going through Army training... I had fun. I really enjoyed that.

Response by A1C William Puckett made May 12 at 2015 8:41 PM

2015-05-12T20:41:48-04:00

I was in the Air Force. During my time I would always run into men and women from other branches, and we would always say "Man I should have joined another branch. I have to say my recruiter Sgt. Solchaga was a douche bag. Never on time for any appointment. I lost my guaranteed job because of him. I was signed up for 6 yrs start at E-3, and was going to be a Radio Communications Analyst. Instead I was DDA Transportation. The very last Direct Duty Assignment.

Response by PO2 David Gustafson made May 14 at 2015 8:51 AM

2015-05-14T08:51:46-04:00

I went in to the NAVY with a clearly defined path in mind, I worked hard and played the game all the way through boot camp, A-School and and finished the A-6 syllabus at NAS Oceana on time. Desert Storm came and we dug some Sailors out of the sand and got their remains back to their wives and families, shot thousands of Intruders off the boat, yes, I got what I expected.

Four boys, three went to play in the sand box 20 some years later, they would not listen to me, their great uncles, grandfather or myself and are disenfranchised.

My opinion is that service is exactly what you make of it, a bad attitude and poor inner talk will bring the best sailor to the brig every time!

Response by SSG Lonny Self made May 14 at 2015 7:50 PM

2015-05-14T19:50:54-04:00

It was much better than I ever thought it would be. I went to the army's door.
Times where tough and collage looked like a pipe dream, it was the best thing I ever did at the age of 17. Being from a small town that was shutting down, my parents were out of work. I did the unthinkable, in 1976 I dropped out of school. I joined the service, my goal although modest, was to become a diesel mechanic. I had never been in any trouble, and was a bit of a jock at the time. My counselor was a Sargent drill instructor type, he talked me right out of my dream in to a new dream world. He introduced me to fire control operations, long range radar, nuke missile systems and air defense. Wow is all I can say. I worked with men that had integrity, incredible intelligence, and was immersed in knowledge and comradery. It was a sad day when it ended , and yes I have a high school diploma, and more college than most... no degree. I specialized in the field of water treatment and waste water engineering. I've only been out of work for three weeks my entire life. Thanks you US Army!

Response by MAJ Bill Maynard made May 15 at 2015 11:30 AM

2015-05-15T11:30:21-04:00

I was attracted to the Army since I was a young kid. I never wanted to serve or live on a ship so the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard were automatically out. The Air Force didn't have "combat arms" so to speak, so it was Army all the way!

Response by PO1 Thomas Herms made May 16 at 2015 2:31 PM

2015-05-16T14:31:04-04:00

My biggest frustration at the time was that I had a Presidential Appointment to the Air Force Academy, but failed the physical due to flat feet. Then I attended college on my own, and had it interrupted due to the demands of personnel for Viet Nam and the waiving of all physical requirements. So, I had to make a quick choice before the draft board made one for me. I had a pilot's license, so I first looked for flight options which all had long waiting lists. Then the Navy recruiter "guaranteed" me a carrier, so I chose the Navy. So they sent me to advanced electronics school due to my college background and deployment on a submarine. It was a long way from flying, but I made E-6 in 3-1/2 years and really enjoyed the duty, extra education, great food, and camaraderie. So, after 7 years and obtaining a commercial pilot's license during my off-time, I decided my best chance for a commission was to return to college, and join the Naval Air Reserves. Unfortunately, unanticipated life circumstances slowed the acquisition of the BSEE, and lack of openings in the upper ranks prevented advancement in the reserves. But overall, my father's encouragement to not follow his footsteps into the Army and Air Force was a good choice.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 8:35 PM

2015-05-19T20:35:58-04:00

My Father was in the Air Force and I had Uncles that had served in the Army. From the time I was a Sophomore in high school, I knew I wanted to be a Marine. After the first couple of days in Boot Camp, I was seriously thinking that I had made a bad mistake. I learned to quickly adapt and enjoyed the excellent training that I received. The Marine Corps was everything that should be expected of a great organization. Once a Marine, Always a Marine. Semper Fi!

Response by CPT Chris Loomis made May 20 at 2015 11:59 AM

2015-05-20T11:59:04-04:00

Yes. 'Nough said....

Response by Capt Vickie Adams made May 21 at 2015 3:08 PM

2015-05-21T15:08:25-04:00

I enlisted in the Air Force in 1972. Retired in 1992. I can't imagine picking another branch of service. I had no real preconceived ideas. I don't think I had a clue as to what I should expect. It was an adventure. I would have liked to travel more. Only did one overseas assignment in twenty years. But I can't imagine life in any other branch of service after working with all of them.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2015 3:47 PM

2015-05-21T15:47:15-04:00

I joined the Air Force shouldn't I be flying planes, not this desk? ;) Its everything I thought it would be and shines in ways I would have never guessed! I talked to people that were in all branches before I 100% chose and the Air Force sounded best, then I went to talk to the recruiters and he reinforced what I was told (I didn't tell him I did market research prior) and by then I wasn't going to waste the other guys' time or give false hopes...

Fly.Fight.Win

Response by SPC Candace Leach made May 21 at 2015 3:47 PM

2015-05-21T15:47:51-04:00

Had one of my friends from high school to go into the Marines with him. Well it took two years later and I went in and never regret it not once. I regret leaving the Marine Corps since that's all I did was serve eight years. Now I'm in the National Guard and it is a culture shock going from the toughest branch of service.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Jun 8 at 2015 2:40 PM

2015-06-08T14:40:59-04:00

I enjoyed my many assignments and tasks assigned to me. Some were better than others. I just didn't care for all the bullshit and lies I was told and expected to pass on to junior airmen. The lies are going to catch up to the leadership soon when our country will need the young people to fight future wars for this nation.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Jun 8 at 2015 2:41 PM

2015-06-08T14:41:49-04:00

I was in the USAF, and a made a statement.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Jun 8 at 2015 2:58 PM

2015-06-08T14:58:16-04:00

I joined the USAF in 1969 and served to 1991. I enjoyed most all the assignments I got and the jobs I did. Too bad I was lied to until I became bitter towards my leadership. Few told the truth as most just politicked their way along and worked much harder to avoid doing their duties and stealing the credit for ideas and work done totally by others. What made it worse was that senior NCOs and commanders knew it and let it continue. I'm sure this practice continues today.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Jun 8 at 2015 2:59 PM

2015-06-08T14:59:56-04:00

I expected a Whole lot more!

Response by 1LT Kathleen Heisler made Jun 8 at 2015 10:14 PM

2015-06-08T22:14:52-04:00

I picked the Army I would be thrid generation Army. My Grampa and grandmother both served in the Army WWI father Army

Response by TSgt Mario Guajardo made Jun 9 at 2015 2:18 AM

2015-06-09T02:18:16-04:00

Upon graduation from high school (1971) a friend and I intended to join the Navy on what was then called the "buddy" something. Then somehow our ASVAB(?) scores were lost. My perception was that the Navy recruiters were acting like we had done something wrong. I told my friend, "We haven't even signed anything and they're treating us like crap. I ain't joining an outfit like that."

Five years later my experience with Air Force recruiters was a good deal more pleasant. I was, however, disappointed that the "guaranteed job" I signed up for, Fire Control, was not as in depth as the job description suggested. Flightline maintenance was basically "box slinging" with only rudimentary electronics training. Over the years I did get more in depth training but never at the electrical engineering level I eventually pursued via off duty education.

It was still a rewarding career, especially after I voluntarily cross-trained into Operational Intelligence. That was the best job I ever had. I would have stayed in over 20 but an MEB determined that I "could no longer do my job" so I was "allowed" to retire at 20 eventually receiving a 50% disability from the VA.

Response by SSgt Helen Scott made Jun 12 at 2015 11:45 PM

2015-06-12T23:45:17-04:00

Actually, it really was everything I thought it would be...except for the G.I. parties lol! That was a bit of a shock. I did have a great experience, and I'd have done it again.

Response by PO3 Cris Smyth made Jun 13 at 2015 2:07 PM

2015-06-13T14:07:24-04:00

I had a great time in the Navy! IYAOYAS all the way baby!

Response by Sgt Mary Katherine Smith made Jul 1 at 2015 8:49 AM

2015-07-01T08:49:58-04:00

I scored high enough on my AFIES test that I could choose which branch I wanted to go into. I don't do well on water due to motion sickness and I knew I wasn't that physically fit so I chose the Air Force. I knew I wanted to do something different so I chose to be an Aircraft Armament Systems Specialist (weapons loader) and was assigned to the A-10 A Thunderbolt. It was absolutely the best thing I have ever done in my life. While it was challenging being the only woman in a flight of 58 men at the 76 AMU / 23rd AGS / England AFB, it was also very rewarding to be able to keep up with my brothers and on occasion out load them. The 3 man load crew I was on won the load competition with the fastest time for a full fuel/load turnaround (6 - MK82s and a full GAU-8 under 16 minutes!). Some of my brothers didn't like getting shown up by a girl but that just pushed them to be better, not bitter. Our Flying Tigers were bad a$$ and I was proud to serve my country and with some of the best people I have ever known in my life.

Response by SGT John Faircloth made Jul 1 at 2015 8:16 PM

2015-07-01T20:16:55-04:00

The army my dad was in the army for 28 1/2 year that I went to the army

Response by PO3 Michael Cardinale made Jul 7 at 2015 5:48 PM

2015-07-07T17:48:45-04:00

I checked out the different branches and their missions. The Coast Guard's mission was the best fit for me!

Response by PFC Cliff Green made Jul 10 at 2015 11:43 AM

2015-07-10T11:43:17-04:00

I didn't expect what I saw when I was actually in Basic all the way to when I left. I was saddened, angry, disappointed and was glad when I left. I guess my expectations were a little off

Response by SPC George Grimm made Jul 10 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-07-10T15:58:04-04:00

That's a tough one to answer because I have had family in almost every branch of service, the vast majority being navy! I chose the army because I would rather have my feet on the ground than being stuck on a ship! If I was going to do it again I would have joined the marine corps!
They seem to have more discipline than I saw in the army!

Response by Maj Mike Sciales made Aug 5 at 2015 11:41 AM

2015-08-05T11:41:16-04:00

In the macro sense the AF was everything I thought it'd be. Planes taking off, bombs being dropped. Also had air conditioning and clean sheets most days. The coffee was routinely excellent and we have some beautiful golf courses and used to have nice bars (gone now I'm afraid). In the micro I wasn't able to really make that call and understand until I did some joint/combined work and saw how the different services and services of different nations approached their jobs. The only thing I dislike is that the USAF is constantly evolving and always fighting for "respect" from the other services. We drive ourselves crazy trying to outdo the others - we don't want to be seen as the "nerdy geekfest" tribe, we want to be seen as tough, dangerous people. Well, that would be the Marines. Airmen aren't Marines (yes, I know some of you will be astonished) and they aren't soldiers or sailors and they ought to be very proud of being in a tough outfit that took every mission since WW II. Troops in Afghanistan and Iraq have no doubt about how tough some of those pilots are who come into the fight, coming low and slow and putting that ordinance right where it's needed. Tough is sleeping outside in the dirt and the rain. Tough is also not letting people needing air support down.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 5 at 2015 2:06 PM

2015-08-05T14:06:45-04:00

Well I chose subs and it was pretty self explanatory

Response by SPC Elaine Brown made Aug 5 at 2015 7:44 PM

2015-08-05T19:44:36-04:00

I had no idea what it would be like. The Army had more choices for me as a woman. I joined when I was 17 (my Mom and Dad had to give me permission since I was still a minor). I wanted to go to college, but with six brothers and sisters, that seemed like a dream. I loved my job in the Army and having it gave the opportunity to grow as a person, gain confidence and discipline which helped me when I finally did go to college. I would not trade the experience that I had even though sometimes it wasn't easy, like when I had to leave my baby when she was three months old. If I had to do it again knowing then what I know now, I would still do it.

Response by SGT Eric Dziekan made Aug 5 at 2015 9:17 PM

2015-08-05T21:17:45-04:00

I got almost everything that I set my goals for by the time my second enlistment was halfway over. The only thing that scared the crap out of me was locating and disarming anti-personnel mines in Panama by bayonet one inch at a time. Disarming was something were not trained on but got OJT. We couldn't use the mine detectors in those areas. It really got the juices flowing.

All in all in Panama we used more Engineer skills than my other duty stations as we were a light Sapper Company such as the RB3 and rope bridges etc. We were also able to cross train with a mortor squad and 11B Inf squad and air mobile. No other assignments worked that close with other disciplines.

Awesome experiences that I would do all over again.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2015 9:05 AM

2015-08-07T09:05:40-04:00

Yes, it was. When I was 18 I wanted a challenge, and Marine Infantry provided it. I was challenged at every turn in my career and enjoyed every minute of it.

Response by MSgt Jim Wolverton made Aug 7 at 2015 12:02 PM

2015-08-07T12:02:39-04:00

Joining the AF was the best decision I ever made, it gave me everything I have and made me who I am. The only time i felt disappointment is when I returned Stateside from Germany and expected more from the unit I was with, camaraderie wise, which was my fault for expecting that. Either way, all but two years were the best years of my life, I wouldn't trade any of those years, even the not so great ones.

Response by PO1 Shahida Marmol made Aug 7 at 2015 10:53 PM

2015-08-07T22:53:02-04:00

I expected more discipline. I joined at 17 right out of high school. I thought it would be like the movies. I'd have impeccable military bearing. Everyone would respect the COC. You are ordered to do your job and held accountable when you didn't. Sometimes I look around and feel like "Are these really the people keeping terrorist at bay?"

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 4:52 PM

2015-08-08T16:52:19-04:00

It was bull shit. I was lied to everyday from Detailer to current command. Nobody can keep their word, much less help make it right.

Response by SPC Jon Quist made Aug 20 at 2015 9:31 PM

2015-08-20T21:31:49-04:00

I joined the Army in 85, I followed in my dad's foot steps, he served in WWII in Normandy. I wished it was more than I expected. But then again I was not in the infantry, I was in maintnance battalions, & I do not regret serving I did 8yrs. & proud!!

Response by PO1 Scott Cottrell made Aug 21 at 2015 5:38 PM

2015-08-21T17:38:32-04:00

Well, my father's side of the family has a long history of Military service. Before my father, it was all Army (although one fought for the South). My grandfather told my father " I don't care what you do in life, but don't join the F*cking Army." He was a corporal on Omaha Beach during D Day. So, my father join the Navy (Retired Reserve O6 and Nam Vet). He put it to me this way, "Where would you rather be during war? in a foxhole? or a big steel ship? Granted if the big steel ship gets hit, you mite have to swim."

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Aug 21 at 2015 5:51 PM

2015-08-21T17:51:19-04:00

I wanted to be a Marine when I learned my birthday 10 November was also the Marines birthday. So on my 18th Birthday I enlisted for three years..

Response by Maj William Gambrell made Aug 21 at 2015 6:12 PM

2015-08-21T18:12:12-04:00

I joined the Air Force because my dad retired from the Air Force. If I had to again, I would join the Marines given the Air Force's high level of bureaucracy and political correctness. I really prefer the Marine's "get it done" attitude versus let's talk about it with everyone so we don't piss anyone off and get in trouble.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Aug 21 at 2015 6:13 PM

2015-08-21T18:13:34-04:00

I chose the Navy for the nuclear power program. I wasn't disappointed. I already worked in the nuclear field before enlisting...

Response by CPO Jim Wingate made Aug 25 at 2015 11:22 AM

2015-08-25T11:22:14-04:00

The Coast Guard was the only branch not to recruit me, had no idea how rewarding the service in the CG could be, wouldnt change anything, seen most of the western hemisphere and made great friends.With our very diverse missions I have done alot of different things! Very family oriented and care about their people, very forgotten branch of service but nonetheless important.

Response by AN Carolyn L. made Aug 28 at 2015 1:26 PM

2015-08-28T13:26:37-04:00

I chose Navy. My Dad was Navy, my Great Uncles were Navy. I was disappointed at the treatment of women. I expected better. I expected honest people to step forward and say "that is not right". At the risk of being a "whiner", I now know that I was screwed and I am not happy about. Not looking for money, an apology or anything. Too late. I wish I had asserted myself when I was young. Today, I'd kick ass. But when you are young, you don't know that standing up for yourself is the only way to get your career going. I trusted the wrong people and paid dearly for it. I loved the Navy and would give my left nut to be serving today. Again, too late.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 10:48 AM

2015-08-30T10:48:33-04:00

Well, I was working for $.75 an hour. Entered the Air Force, which allowed me to get 14 years+ experience and a college degree. Also gave me skills to use in subsequent civilian life.

Yep I would say it was a good thing.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 11:25 AM

2015-08-30T11:25:12-04:00

I think doing what I did was the best thing I could have done, in hind sight. I would do it all again.

Response by PFC Donnie Harold Harris made Sep 1 at 2015 4:57 PM

2015-09-01T16:57:21-04:00

1000% yes. I could never be a sailor or a Marine. I wanted to fly Jets for the air force, But you still need a High school diploma for some reason. So I became an Infantryman where I learned to be All I could Be. Thank's Sarg. All of you.

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Sep 2 at 2015 11:47 AM

2015-09-02T11:47:47-04:00

Response by SPC Lisa Rudikoff made Oct 4 at 2015 6:27 PM

2015-10-04T18:27:25-04:00

I first went into the navy (NPSAC program) and eventually got a DD368 (sep of service) to sign with the ARNG. I went to basic and completed all the tasks (my paperwork said so) but then didn't attend graduation because I was injured in between. Well, long story short I went to PTRP (which was a joke) and already being a nationally registered paramedic was told I didn't need to worry about AIT. They said I could discharge and go home and heal up and then come back. I knew that was a lie, but the treatment at PTRP was horrific, and since then I've been trying to get back in (I did take the med discharge) but with an RE code of a 3, "Physical condition, not a disability" (I had cracked bones in both legs.
After healing up I tried to get back in. I got a waiver for my legs, went through MEPS, had my ortho consult, and was ready to swear back in and get to work. I was denied for the SAME reason I got the waiver in the first place. (Mind you, in between the branches, trainings, etc. and even before BCT I worked ADSW time all over, basically full time for months on end). So while I was in and actually doing the job? Loved it! The way I was treated on the way out, and on the way trying to get back in? Horrible. Still trying though...I miss it terribly.

Response by Cpl Alan Mackin made Dec 16 at 2015 1:11 PM

2015-12-16T13:11:48-05:00

Who makes a decision on which branch to go into based on how the uniform looks ? Uh...that would be my 17 year old self.
On that career day in the High school gym, the Marine recruiter was the tallest of the 4 different branch recruiters but those dress blues suckered me in. I wanted to wear that uniform.
Strange, because I do not have one brother, uncle or cousin that were in the Marines up to then. I had no idea what I was going to get into, and the first night at Parris Island in late July had me wondering what the heck I just did.
No regrets now of course.

Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Dec 21 at 2015 7:58 AM

2015-12-21T07:58:44-05:00

US Navy Deck Ape. 5 inch gun mount, Tonkin Gulf, Yankee Sration

Response by SCPO Charles Thomas "Tom" Canterbury made Dec 23 at 2015 11:54 PM

2015-12-23T23:54:29-05:00

Nope. I was waiting for the Army National Guard recruiter to give me a call when the Navy Recruiter got to me first. Twenty-two years later, I have no regrets!

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2015 8:37 PM

2015-12-27T20:37:09-05:00

I have to admit, I do get envious when I visit an Air Force base and see all the "stuff" they have, but ultimately I joined the Coast Guard to do Search and Rescue and I would do it over again in a heartbeat if I had to make the decision again today. Each service has their unique flavor, but in the end, so do it's members so to each their own.

Response by PVT William Bresch made Dec 29 at 2015 9:13 AM

2015-12-29T09:13:32-05:00

UNITED STATES ARMY KICKS ASS !!! 3RD GENERATION BABY ...

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2015 12:09 PM

2015-12-29T12:09:16-05:00

yes it was the Marines made me the person I am today

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2015 12:19 PM

2015-12-29T12:19:15-05:00

The Marines made me the person I am today and if I could do it all over again I would.I hear people talk crap about the Marines but if those pin heads think about it .The Marines are the FIRST to go in and the LAST to leave.Who do you see standing guard at the White MARINES,on the Navel ships Marines.

Response by CAPT Tom Bersson made Dec 30 at 2015 1:42 PM

2015-12-30T13:42:04-05:00

I'm glad I made the choice that I did.

Response by SPC Anna Larson made Jan 2 at 2016 5:36 PM

2016-01-02T17:36:47-05:00

I was in Navy JROTC in high school and then two years in a military Junior College before I finished my degree. I knew a head of time that if I wanted to work with animals (ie vet tech) the only service I could go into would be the Army as they are the only ones with the vet tech program. So yes I was prepared and knew exactly what I was getting into when I enlisted. I did however expect that my better from my "officer" (ie the Veterinarian) in charge of the unit. I wasn't prepared for such a "woman hater" as our second Captain was (especially since he'd already been in the Air Force for nearly 12 or 13 years before then. But you get what you get.

Response by PO2 Jeffery Marcussen Sr made Jan 14 at 2016 2:59 AM

2016-01-14T02:59:53-05:00

I was going to go navy like my father did he served in world war 2. but something drew me to the Coast Guard. my father said an honorable service and it did not bother him if i wanted to go with them. so i went never looked back never regretted it. my father was proud of me and i was proud of my service that was enough.

I was in navy NJROTC and some people came by from each service i was more impressed with the Coast Guardsmen so it was what changed my mind from navy to coast guard.

my brothers and sisters in arms no matter the service or the joking we all do to each other in the other services. Please remember one thing that no matter the branch or your rate/rank we are all American Military WE Are Americans! And We Are What stands between Our Loved Ones,Our Country, And Our Freedom.Stand Tall,Stand Proud,And Always Remember Those Who Did Not Come Home!!

Response by SrA Daniel Loving made Jan 16 at 2016 9:09 AM

2016-01-16T09:09:23-05:00

I chose the Air Force because my dad was in the Air Force, No regrets!

Response by SPC Pete Herb made Jan 18 at 2016 10:21 AM

2016-01-18T10:21:25-05:00

I grew up in Michigan, lots of water and an international boarder. The Coast Guard was always visible when I rode my bicycle, down to the water front. I'd gaze in awe at the expanse of water hugging the southern & eastern coast of the Detroit area.

Out of High school I sought out work on the boats plying the waters and lakes. A Merchant Mariner's ID Card was a requirement which was obtained at the Coast Guard Station. I worked that first summer on the boats and was pretty sure the Coast Guard was my future. I joined. However, there was a half year waiting period during which time I received an Army draft notice. The Coast Guard recruiter told me I had my choice, 2 years drafted Army service or 6 years Coast Guard. In the fog of a 19 year old I opted for 2 yrs Army. No regrets but I've oft pondered the person I'd be had I chosen differently.

I proudly served the Army and enjoyed my experiences during my tours in Germany. I seriously contemplated 're-uping' but times had changed and I headed off to college on the GI bill. I had my career, retired, and now continue to serve as a volunteer at the VA Medical Center, "In support and care of America's Veterans".

Response by Capt Skip Sponheim made Jan 20 at 2016 6:55 AM

2016-01-20T06:55:01-05:00

I MUST SOUND LIKE SOME KIND OF FUDDY-DUDDY BECAUSE I CAN NEVER REMEMBER A TIME WHEN I DID NOT WANT TO BE A MARINE. IT WASN'T THE UNIFORM.......IT CERTAINLY WASN'T THE PAY....IT WASN'T EVEN THE GLORY. FOR ME, IT WAS ALWAYS THE QUESTION OF JOINING THE TOUGHEST ORGANIZATION I COULD AND PROVING TO MYSELF I COULD SURVIVE. AS IT LATER TURNED OUT, I COULD NOT ONLY SURVIVE, BUT SURPASS MOST OF MY PEERS. TO THIS DAY, I HAVE NO IDEA OF HOW I DID IT, BUT I RESPECT THE FACT THAT I CREATED MY OWN LITTLE HERITAGE.

Response by SN Bryan King made Feb 2 at 2016 9:24 PM

2016-02-02T21:24:09-05:00

I loved the Coast Guard until I was stationed in Buffalo.

Response by SCPO Thomas Harding jr made Feb 15 at 2016 11:55 PM

2016-02-15T23:55:09-05:00

htcs retired may 22.1982

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2016 3:25 PM

2016-02-18T15:25:11-05:00

No one is going to be 100% satisfied with the branch that they are in. In every branch there are pros and cons. You just have to make best of it and become the very best Officer of that branch

Response by MSgt Marvin Kinderknecht made Feb 19 at 2016 12:50 PM

2016-02-19T12:50:53-05:00

I really did not know what I was getting into when I enlisted. Fortunately, I ended up in a flying position and absolutely loved it. Ran into a few dip sticks (both officers and enlisted) on the way. My motto was: either I or they get promoted and move out or we can get orders to ship out. either way I never had to put up with them my whole career.

Response by TSgt Melissa Post made Feb 25 at 2016 5:23 AM

2016-02-25T05:23:18-05:00

My parents told me I could not go to the Marines, we knew someone who was prior Army and told me that I would hate the lifestyle and he would recommend Air Force. So that narrowed it down to Navy and Air Force. My brother is in the Air force so I knew I could ask him questions and he wouldn't lie like the recruiter. Then I weighed other factors like the fact I'm terrified to go underwater, there was no where to practice swimming, and I would rather be shot than drown (you think im kidding, but those really were some determining factors for me).

I didn't expect the amount of immaturity in the military that there is but that is because from the civilians point of view we are the heroes, the badasses, etc. But perhaps our level of immaturity is just to counter the day to day BS we have to put up with. I did expect more in a lot of areas. However, there are a lot of things in the military that you will not find else where, like the brotherhood and camaraderie we share, the bond we have of sacrificing our daily comfort thanklessly.

I do not regret my decision though. I am glad that my life took me down this road. I remember thinking in my bunk the first night of Basic, "What did I get myself into?" I think I know the answer now. I got myself into an elite group of individuals, I got myself into a place where I can stand on my own feet, I got myself into a life that I can be proud of when I tell my children and grandchildren one day "This is what I did".

Response by GySgt Ken Norwood made Mar 19 at 2016 1:39 AM

2016-03-19T01:39:39-04:00

The two saddest days of my Marine Corps career were the day I decided to retire and the day I retired!

Response by SPC Christina Rao made Nov 4 at 2016 11:14 PM

2016-11-04T23:14:02-04:00

Before I enlisted, I researched the Army, Airforce and the Navy. Then I went to the federal building in NY to talk to all 3 recruiters. I chose the Army for the job, school, and the bonus. I had no idea what I was getting myself into.It was so much more then what I expected.

Response by Sgt Larry Davis made Feb 10 at 2017 9:45 AM

2017-02-10T09:45:17-05:00

I joined the USAF in 1980. I have always been highly intelligent. I scored almost a perfect score on ASVAB. Yet though out my duty I was recommend to the below the board promotion several times. Each time even though I had better scores if there was a woman in the same group she always got the nod. I did not think it was fair. The last time I was recommended I turned it down. Also I scored 98 percent on the SSGT test and was told I did not make it, but several women did who had lower scores.

Response by 1SG Terry Gibbens made Feb 16 at 2017 4:18 PM

2017-02-16T16:18:48-05:00

Since I was drafted the question is mute but I did reenlist in the Army

Response by TSgt James Carson made Mar 10 at 2017 12:39 PM

2017-03-10T12:39:13-05:00

I was somewhat dissappointed with the branch of service I chose, but I made do and enjoyed the work most of the time. As far as fair, NO it's not, but neither is life.

Response by TSgt Thomas Monaghan made Mar 10 at 2017 1:12 PM

2017-03-10T13:12:55-05:00

It was more than I was expecting one of the best decisions I ever made.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2017 4:09 PM

2017-03-10T16:09:56-05:00

I originally wanted to enlist in the Marine Corps, but I was home schooled and they wouldn't take me without 30 college credit hours. I figured all the branches had similar requirements until I went to the Army recruiter with a friend. The army let me in with a GED after I took their pre-ASVAB. Its been a great experience and I have no regrets.

Response by SrA Rex Brown made Mar 17 at 2017 5:43 AM

2017-03-17T05:43:05-04:00

I was never disappointed in enlisting into the USAF. I was however disappointed in life after I decided to get out.

Response by Cpl Tom Surdi made Mar 18 at 2017 11:44 AM

2017-03-18T11:44:06-04:00

I never thought about joining any other branch other than the Marine Corps. If I was going to do it, I was going to do it right and join the best.

Response by CW3 Kim B. made Mar 18 at 2017 11:51 AM

2017-03-18T11:51:11-04:00

Never a regret. The Army (in 1978) had the most jobs to offer women. The Marines and Navy limited my skill choices to admin and medical. Didn't want to join the AF unless I could fly which they said I couldn't because I was too short. So then I decided I wanted computer repair and that's what I got. Of course I also the XM1 Abrams tank

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2017 12:20 PM

2017-03-18T12:20:33-04:00

I spoke with a Marine recruiter before speaking with the Army. I felt as if a dog was barking at me the whole time, the best thing I did was to leave that office. The US Army recruiter treated me with dignity and respect, and I am glad I chose the Army. Best choice I ever made.

Response by MSgt George Cater made Mar 18 at 2017 12:28 PM

2017-03-18T12:28:26-04:00

Affirmative to the Nth degree squared.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2017 1:52 PM

2017-03-18T13:52:28-04:00

Nope. I regret some of my choices while in, but never my choice of branch. I was always a nerd, total space geek. Couldn't care less about women (not homosexual lol, just didn't want the hassle...I'm married now!), alcohol, or partying. I just wanted to do something sci-fi-ish. Which is why now I am intel working space. Been offered jobs at SpaceX and Lockheed, but not gonna quit. They'll either have to medically separate me or downright kick me out. I'll retire when the time is right, but I got at least a decade left.

Response by PO3 Chris Wright, MBA made Mar 18 at 2017 2:40 PM

2017-03-18T14:40:40-04:00

I joined the Navy as an electrician's mate which workd on ships. If I had to do it again I would have done Seabees or Army 11B.

Response by TSgt Denise Moody made Mar 18 at 2017 3:36 PM

2017-03-18T15:36:03-04:00

I had wanted to join the military since grade school. Being a Star Trek fan, and Fleet Week in Portland Ore every year, I was really leaning toward the Navy. But I decided to check them all out. The recruiting station Army, AF, and Navy all on one floor. The Army sounded interesting...choose job or base with a two year hitch, both with three years. AF was a little off putting with a 4 and 6 year hitches but they stressed the value of education. Then I went to see the Navy recruiter. A fat guy leaning back in his chair, fingers laced over his gut. When I asked what the Navy guaranteed his answer was..."I can guaranteed you will do your basic in Florida, cause that's the only base we got for women." I turned around, walked out, went to the AF and never looked back.

Response by Sgt David Hesser made Mar 18 at 2017 5:15 PM

2017-03-18T17:15:18-04:00

I kind of knew what to expect because I grew up beside El Toro Marine base, but I still tried to join the Army first and they said I would make a better Marine than a soldier (I got in a little trouble as a youth) it was the best thing that ever happened to me, and I will be fore ever grateful to the Army recruiter and the Marine Corp.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2017 5:47 PM

2017-03-18T17:47:55-04:00

My family was mostly Army and a few Navy on my moms side. I tried to break that by joining the Air Force. Just something about it didn't feel right, like the recruiters office just felt wrong. The minute I walked in the Army office it was like right at home. Being a military brat I already knew what I was getting into. I got tips from my dad as well, but now I'm currently a 15P and loving Aviation which I hope to pursue more Aviation jobs when I get out or switch to criminal justice. I gotta say without the Army I wouldn't have anything that I have today...it helped me buy my first car and pretty much everything I wanted plus helping my family. I also been to more places in 4 years than I did before I joined....Ft Jackson, Ft Rucker, Ft Wainwright, Korea, now I'm in Hawaii soon to go to Thailand for 3 months maybe haha and soon to be a SGT (damn points lol) but the Army has made me a totally different person and given me so many great benefits. I hate it some days and love some days as well but I guess that's the Army life haha I don't want to live an easy life I want one that will challenge and shape me to a great person/Soldier which is why the Army is the place to go if you want that life. I now have 2 more years in Hawaii (born here) but I am strongly considering going reserves and go to college as well as get a good job on the side which I have options in mind.

Response by LTC Wayne Brandon made Mar 18 at 2017 10:11 PM

2017-03-18T22:11:25-04:00

There was never any real question about the branch I would select when I became of enlistment age.
Members of my family had served in every major war since the American revolution so it was the obvious thing for me.
Reaching the age of 17 in '68 I was determined in my heart to join the Army Infantry, though I felt I should at least consider the other options. Going to the library I picked out books about the Navy, Marines and Air Force. The AF seemed rather boring but the Marines were much more to my liking. The book I selected for the Navy was a novel telling the dreadful story of the USS Indianapolis. When I read the part where the survivors bobbed around in the sea for days waiting to be eaten by sharks, I decided I'd rather try to dodge incoming and automatic weapons fire than ever be in that hopeless situation. I closed the book with a heaviness in my heart for those sailors and determined that it would be the Army for me.
I enlisted for the Infantry in January '69 and spent 3 years 9 months, closing out my last year as a Drill Sergeant, immediately signing on with the Army ROTC; two years later graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice and a commission in the Military Police. I spent the next two and a half years as a MP training officer in the G3 section of a MACOM but found the mission to be uninspiring so a branch transfer to the Infantry was requested and granted. I spent the rest of my career back where I began, in my beloved Infantry. I never regretted my decision to join the Army; the things I learned and experienced have served me well in various aspect of my life.

Response by SSgt Gary Andrews made Mar 19 at 2017 1:56 AM

2017-03-19T01:56:06-04:00

Being a Marine was the best years of my life. Very proud to wear the eagle, globe, and anchor.

Response by SSG James Bigbie made Mar 19 at 2017 4:00 AM

2017-03-19T04:00:36-04:00

All the Air Force offered me was fuel handler and security police. I chose the Army instead.

Response by CAPT Dave Woodard made Mar 19 at 2017 4:39 PM

2017-03-19T16:39:52-04:00

Went to the Recruiter's office since it was next to the draft board who was in the process of sending me a letter (1966), The MC and the Navy Recruiter shared an office. The Marine Corps offered me a commission as a 2nd LT. I could read the daily casualty list in the paper and decided that the Navy would be a better option. The Navy Chief ask about my college major (pre-med) so said, well, we'll make you a Corpsman. Little did I know that two years later I would be in a Marine Corps platoon crawling in the Jungle. Ended up with the majority of my Navy career with the Corps. Neither decision was wrong in terms of outcome.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2017 4:42 PM

2017-03-19T16:42:34-04:00

I came in at AGE 40. When I went to the recruiter office the ARMY branch was first. I went down the hall way and hit every branch and each one told me I was too old. So I asked the ARMY if I was tool old and they said.."No you're good but you need to sign up ASAP". So I did.

Response by Cpl Ray Frigerio made Mar 19 at 2017 6:05 PM

2017-03-19T18:05:24-04:00

I only regret being it being a dept of the Navy. The Marine Corps helped me figure out that I REALLY hate ships and the sea lol...

Response by SGT Marc Tyler made Mar 20 at 2017 9:49 AM

2017-03-20T09:49:24-04:00

I was trying to enlist in the Air Force, following both of my parents. Every time I went to my appointment to see the AF recruiter, she was never there. Called, to reschedule, she was a no show. After a couple of times doing this, the Army recruiter asked if I wanted to check out a video and go over my options... ended up joining the Army. Good decision, wished I stayed in longer.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2017 5:33 PM

2017-03-20T17:33:57-04:00

I haven't seen the fleet yet since I am in a long training program; however, I have enjoyed my time in the Navy and look forward to experiencing my own journeys based on the sea stories that have been told to me by my superiors. It has made me very excited and I feel I chose the right branch for me.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 21 at 2017 12:13 AM

2017-03-21T00:13:36-04:00

Yes

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2017 12:32 PM

2017-04-16T12:32:20-04:00

Indeed, it was. Much of the influence on choosing the United States Navy was derived from my father, who served in the Navy during WWII and again during the Korean conflict. As I was growing up, he often told me stories about the far away places he visited, and the simple quiet beauty of the sea at night. While in high school, I made Navy enlistment my goal at graduation. Coming from a small farm area of Northern New York State, there were no good choices, so many of my high school classmates entered one military service or another. In twenty-four years' active duty I was able to achieve advancement through enlisted & officer grades and to retire with a graduate degree.

Response by A1C Carol Taylor made Sep 11 at 2017 11:10 AM

2017-09-11T11:10:26-04:00

I choose it for the best option in my time in service.

Response by A1C Lexas Granger made Oct 1 at 2018 7:13 AM

2018-10-01T07:13:23-04:00

If I wasn’t such a boneheaded dick in the Air Force I’d be SrA or SSgt right now working hard to make pilots safer in the air and on the ground. However, my lack of ability to be respectful and follow directions led to my ineffectiveness and eventually my discharge. This will never waver my decision to Enlist in the Air Force. Hooah

Response by PO1 Al Patzke made Oct 25 at 2018 6:13 PM

2018-10-25T18:13:13-04:00

Don’t really know what I expected. My family had history of Naval service. I enlisted for the nuclear field and served onboard nuclear submarines. Six years and out.

Response by PO3 Dan Clemens made Oct 27 at 2018 5:33 PM

2018-10-27T17:33:44-04:00

I served in the US Navy USS Harry S Truman and in the US Army. I wished I would of joined the US Coast Guard. But it all depends on your MOS or Rate. Each job has a certain school that each branch exceeds on for example Police Army, Firefighter Air Force, Air Traffic Controler Air Force or Navy. Then it’s all depends on how you want to live. Tents Army and Marines, like sardines Navy and Coast Guard. Taj Mahal Air Force. This is just my opinion.

Response by SPC Richard Sellati made Oct 27 at 2018 10:48 PM

2018-10-27T22:48:11-04:00

I first went to a Navy recruiter, not sure why I always got sea sick. To be honest, I didn’t believe a word he said. Then I went to the Army, and he didn’t promise me the Sun, Moon and Stars, and I was pretty satisfied with what he had to offer. I got a lot more than I bargained for, a lifetime of being a soldier.

Response by CPO Mark Halsten made Oct 28 at 2018 10:16 AM

2018-10-28T10:16:40-04:00

I knew within 6 Mos the Navy was the right choice.

OSC (SW)
USN ret

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2018 11:47 AM

2018-10-29T11:47:47-04:00

Honestly I expected more I served in the 101st Airborne, which I was told that they were the most deployed unit in the army and I was with 3 BCT RAKKASAN which I was told that was the most deployed brigade in the army and I never got deployed my entire time I served. Maybe it’s a good thing but I wanted the experience.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2018 1:37 PM

2018-10-29T13:37:50-04:00

So far so good.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2018 5:38 AM

2018-10-30T05:38:54-04:00

I had 2 grandads and an uncle in the Army, but I wanted to join the marines, but I was disqualified for my tattoos. I’m enjoying the Army so far regardless

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Oct 30 at 2018 12:42 PM

2018-10-30T12:42:15-04:00

If I had to do that all over again I'd still choose to enter the Air Force. While I was in High School I had been a Cadet in Civil Air Patrol which is the Auxiliary of the US Air Force. CAP is part of the structure of the USAF and our uniforms were Air Force with certain insignia that identified us as the Civil Air Patrol. CAP units were structured like the USAF with Wings, Groups, Squadron and Flights and supported by full time active duty USAF people at National Headquarters at Maxwell AFB, AL , The 8 Regional Headquarters and all 52 Wings. The Air Force Recruiter, SSgt Victor Caron in the Framingham, MA office I went through was actually very honest with Me and there nothing He told Me that wasn't right on the mark. The Air Force recruiting office was also a short walk from where our CAP Squadron Met.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Oct 30 at 2018 9:42 PM

2018-10-30T21:42:57-04:00

Boy, is that a complex one...I've really gotta give that one some major thought...that one made my neuron gears turn, obviously....

Response by Maj Robert Thornton made Oct 30 at 2018 10:04 PM

2018-10-30T22:04:25-04:00

I have no regrets choosing the Air Force. I did my research, the Air Force recruiter was straight with me. I can't say that for the Army recruiter, he promised me everything under the sun. I will say, I did not expect to be selected for nurse anesthesia school on the first application. Had a very good career.

Response by PO3 Elizabeth Litton Williamson made Oct 31 at 2018 10:21 AM

2018-10-31T10:21:55-04:00

To be honest I went to every branch and talked to people in the three main branches I was interested in. Then I learned what I preferred land or ship. Did I want to travel more how did I want to travel more what did I want to see? Kind of made a list like that and found the branch that was a right fit.

Response by PFC Bobby Lingle made Oct 31 at 2018 2:50 PM

2018-10-31T14:50:42-04:00

It was awesome.

Response by SGT Mark Estes made Oct 31 at 2018 4:45 PM

2018-10-31T16:45:00-04:00

Wasn’t really sure what really to expect going in but am happy I chose the Army. Promoted to Sergeant and had multiple deployments before getting out. Couldn’t have expected any more than what I did and got out of the Army.

Response by PV2 Daisy Romero made Nov 1 at 2018 3:48 PM

2018-11-01T15:48:06-04:00

Nope it was not what I was expecting they were like your going to blow shit up and I’m like well that’s fucking cool fuck yeah they didn’t even explain what the job really was and I didn’t even get to see all the jobs I was qualifyed for so o don’t even know all the choices I had so they basically fucked me over

Response by AA Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2018 7:33 PM

2018-11-01T19:33:00-04:00

Never meant to join the Navy. I was going Army and I saw a friend of mine in the Navy recruiting office. Next thing I knew, I was in Mavy bootcamp haha!!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2018 1:35 PM

2018-11-03T13:35:21-04:00

When I chose to join the Army National Guard It was everything I hoped for and more. I barely made it out of AIT when I was able to take on my first Deployment!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2018 5:37 PM

2018-11-03T17:37:46-04:00

Honestly going through basic training I was expecting whole lot more. But I definitely don’t regret joining.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2018 2:38 AM

2018-11-04T02:38:04-05:00

I went through every branch office trying to choose except marines . I even went to the Navy recruitment office twice that was a waste of time lol . Tried the Air Force they were just so nonchalant I just left . Then I tried the army and I’m excited about leaving now because at first I was scared . I leave out January 14 .

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2018 9:29 AM

2018-11-04T09:29:27-05:00

I expected more

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2018 8:09 PM

2018-11-06T20:09:23-05:00

I expected more life saving and less drills and inspections

Response by Sgt Roy Ennis III made Nov 7 at 2018 3:54 AM

2018-11-07T03:54:01-05:00

It was as I thought it would be

Response by SPC Jon Kipley made Nov 7 at 2018 6:53 PM

2018-11-07T18:53:48-05:00

Nope

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2019 10:06 PM

2019-12-07T22:06:11-05:00

I went to talk to the army recruiter first. I wanted to be a tanker. Then, my best friend went and joined the Navy as a nuc. So, i went and talked to the Navy recruiter. Didn't promise me anything until after I took the asvab. I scored high enough to be a nuc but didn't want that. They offered me Seabees heavy equipment operator. Took that, best decision I could have made. I loved my time in.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2019 12:06 AM

2019-12-08T00:06:56-05:00

Grandpa- navy
Uncles/aunts- Army
Uncle- USMC
Uncle- AF
Me- USMC/Army

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Dec 9 at 2019 4:13 AM

2019-12-09T04:13:13-05:00

I knew very early I would be an Infantryman. As early as junior high school. I figured that meant Army or Marine Corps. And I figured...since I was actually about “Service” as opposed to only joining for “what’s in it for me”...that if either has more strict requirements to join...that I actually might meet...then that’s where I should probably go.

Semper Fi!!!

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2020 3:12 AM

2020-03-13T03:12:36-04:00

I expected a lot more. (Air Force) I will always be grateful for what it’s given me. (Traveled & met my husband and bestfriends) but I’m happy I’m out. I had a lot of very toxic command. And I’m not talking about the normal “rough & tough” military attitude, which I expected and could handle. I mean command talking crap about you with your coworkers. Handing out LOCs and LORs for doing something everyone else was doing & said was okay. I would be the only one grilled for it. I would try to do my job, and then get told I was the worst worker when I was the only one not sitting on my phone and screwing around on my first base. Military let me down incredibly. I resent some of the leaders I had for encouraging and creating that kind of environment. Everyone deserves equal chance.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2020 11:48 AM

2020-03-13T11:48:28-04:00

I’m totally happy with my decision to serve especially in the greatest branch of the United States military. Ever since I’ve joined I’ve only been continuously learning and experiencing the very thing I’ve wanted to do since I was a little kid.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2020 12:28 PM

2020-03-16T12:28:24-04:00

Joined the marines because I wanted the harder more challenging task and got screwed over by getting an MOS I didn’t pick

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2020 7:35 PM

2020-03-17T19:35:14-04:00

No. Not at all.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2020 9:52 PM

2020-03-17T21:52:31-04:00

I thought it was going to be more than it was the marine corps doesn’t seem to be as harsh as I thought it would be compared to those that have told me the story’s of past marines

Response by SSgt Tyler Jones made Mar 17 at 2020 10:41 PM

2020-03-17T22:41:51-04:00

The best times of my life. I wish I could’ve stayed longer.

Response by SGT Dave Russo made Mar 18 at 2020 6:11 AM

2020-03-18T06:11:33-04:00

Originally I wanted to be a SEAL, but I was too old, they told me to go to the Army that the Green Berets would take older guys so I did and they did and here we are many years later, medically retired. So it all worked out the way God had intended I guess, it is not for me to decide, just serve our country.

Response by PO2 Stephen Schlager made Mar 20 at 2020 9:17 AM

2020-03-20T09:17:24-04:00

I wish I would have given it more thought. Been more mature when I made the decision. I knew I wanted to go to the military since I was young and do something with aviation. However, had I been more mature and maybe known a few more people I wouldn’t have gone enlisted. Don’t get me wrong I loved getting my hands dirty and I think I was really very good at my job, partly because of my prior knowledge, but, I think I would have had more job satisfaction doing the flying than the maintaining. Even though the maintaining can be tougher and more meticulous at times.

Response by SPC Roger Giffen made Jul 19 at 2020 10:19 PM

2020-07-19T22:19:26-04:00

I visited with the AF recruiter for 2 months and the Army recruiter 1 time. Went Army

Response by SP5 Richard Welch made Jul 27 at 2020 5:22 PM

2020-07-27T17:22:54-04:00

Chose the Army to be Airborne and based at Ft Bragg. Looking back at my service, Air Force would have been a better choice for MOS that actually had a civilian job with good pay after service. Don't regret being Airborne,or Combat Engineer, hindsight is always 20/20.

Response by PVT Anthony Demapan made Jul 30 at 2020 2:01 PM

2020-07-30T14:01:02-04:00

I didn't think about it, I just joined, and then I realized the Good, the Bad and the Ugly WTF happened.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2020 7:26 PM

2020-12-17T19:26:09-05:00

I intended on joining the Army. Even talked to the recruiter. Then a good friend joined the Navy. He talked me into going to see the Navy recruiter. Never made it back to the Army. Joined Navy as a Seabee. Best decision I've ever made. Proud to be part of that brotherhood.

Response by SSgt Tom Canning made Jul 22 at 2021 2:23 PM

2021-07-22T14:23:01-04:00

Had my choice ASVAB scores were very high and given what I wanted my job/career to be the Air Force was a no brained. Additionally the mess with Shaw of Iran was going on and never really thought I would have “The Right Stuff” to be an infantryman. My hat is truly of to you people for your dedication to the overall mission

Response by SPC Roger Dunn made Jul 22 at 2021 3:08 PM

2021-07-22T15:08:23-04:00

I wanted Navy sea-bees but it the late 80's and they had a freeze on sea- bees so I went to the Army to see what they had that was close to the sea- bees. They told me combat engineer,I was loke what do they do? I was told they blow shitt up. That was all I needed to hear

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Jul 22 at 2021 3:26 PM

2021-07-22T15:26:08-04:00

My father told me to join the Coast Guard, I joined the Army. I told my son to join the Air Force, or the Coast Guard, he joined the Army. I had a friend in England in the AF when I was in West Germany, when he talked about what he got fed, compared to what we got fed, lol. Can't say I regret it, but would have been interesting if I made the other choice.

Response by MSgt Mike P. made Aug 24 at 2021 7:19 PM

2021-08-24T19:19:21-04:00

I had the unique opportunity to serve in three (3) branches. Started as USN corpsman, then assigned to the USMC, then my best friend said we should join the USAF Buddy Program. I have nothing but the highest regards for them all. Each branch taught me ways to improve myself.

Response by SFC Don Ward made Dec 8 at 2021 9:11 PM

2021-12-08T21:11:46-05:00

I was going Air Force, but having kids put the skids to that. I enlisted for 3 years, ended up staying 22.

Response by TSgt Seth Borrell made Dec 12 at 2021 5:18 PM

2021-12-12T17:18:58-05:00

I started in the Navy. I Did five years active duty as a corpsman. Later I wanted to cross rate into an aviation field but the Navy was not open to it so when my enlistment was up I crossed over to the Airforce. Now I am a C-5 crew chief and I love it. I do not regret joining the Navy and I am proud of my time in it and would have happily stayed if they had let me cross rate but it just wasn’t meant to be and I am equally as happy in the Air Force.

Response by PO3 Jamie Crosier made Nov 2 at 2023 7:47 AM

2023-11-02T07:47:14-04:00

I loved my time in the Navy. At first I had doubts that it was the right choice. But once I was through all the training and at my base it was a total fit. I think I would have struggled in the other branches. Now, where there days that I was like "I quit, I am a going over the fence!" and days where I was like "Sign me up for 10 more years woot!" But I bet everyone in every branch felt that way. My only regret was that I got hurt and got out before I felt like I was finished. But that's life, right?

Response by SFC Jo Ann Klawitter made Apr 19 at 2024 2:56 PM

2024-04-19T14:56:06-04:00

I didn’t know what to expect, but it was an adventure