What things do you remember about adapting to military life?

I remember that my days of "sleeping in" were over. The carefree life that I had become accustomed to was over. There was now a regimen and routine that I was forced to get used to, whether I liked it or not.

The one thing I had to adapt to was physical training

Arriving at a new base was a pain only because you have to find out where to check in. Other than that getting settled in the new job was pretty easy. Most people are very helpful and welcoming, more so than in the civilian sector. Probably because the new person was not there to possibly take your job. Everybody was there to get the job done and rallied around each other to get it done.

The Facepaint and I still wear it to this day when I workout with my ladies at our boot camp fitness sessions in the city.

I went in with my eyes wide open, accepting anything that was thrown at me. I was ready for the challenge.

I remember that I immediately a part of a family and brotherhood that has lasted for over 21 years now. I would do anything for my brothers and sisters then and now.

I remember finding everything very well organized and serious, but that kept me at ease and gave me an inner peace. I also told myself that millions of men had already been through the training which meant that I could do it, too! I never found it too difficult to continue.

Being youngest in boot camp no one wanted to trust me. But I made E2 out of boot camp

That it was so much a change being around so menny people.

I recall being concerned about boot camp, but I just reminded myself that millions of guys made it through and I can make it too. I certainly learned discipline which served me well through out my career after the service. Being in the Navy was a very positive time in my life, and I look back on it fondly. Sure, it wasn't all a picnic, but I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. You develop friendships that last a lifetime. The service is like life, you get out of it what you put in. I frequently think a career in the service has a lot to recommend it. I am proud to have served, and I think most young people would benefit from the experience.