Why did you pick the service branch you joined?

2016-11-03T23:02:07-04:00

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2016 11:06 PM

2016-11-03T23:06:26-04:00

Every other branch is inferior ;)

Response by LTC John Mohor made Nov 3 at 2016 11:12 PM

2016-11-03T23:12:23-04:00

My Dad, three Uncles and brother were all Army before me. Only a great great Uncle and cousin were Navy. I also felt I'd have the best opportunity in the Army to get stationed in Germany.. Thanks for asking SSG Shavonda Chase.

Response by MSgt Scott Azbell made Nov 3 at 2016 11:19 PM

2016-11-03T23:19:40-04:00

My dad was brown water Navy and suggested I go Air Force. More to it then that, but pointed me in that direction.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2016 11:42 PM

2016-11-03T23:42:39-04:00

I joined the Army because the AF Recruiter didn't want to follow through.

Response by PO1 Brian Austin made Nov 3 at 2016 11:56 PM

2016-11-03T23:56:45-04:00

Navy recruiter contacted me first and i got what i wanted. USMC recruiter contacted me day after MEPS.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 12:10 AM

2016-11-04T00:10:32-04:00

SSG Shavonde Chase I had followed the war, and knew that aiding South Vietnam was a just cause. I joined the Marine Corps, because the training would help me survive in country. My father was Air Force, and my uncles were all Army.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Nov 4 at 2016 12:23 AM

2016-11-04T00:23:46-04:00

In college I spent two years in Air Force ROTC (required course). I was impressed with the officers who were the instructors and I wanted to become one after graduation. I took the AFOQT during my senior year and joined during that year - with a delayed entry to OTS scheduled after I graduated.

Best decision I ever made.

Response by SFC George Smith made Nov 4 at 2016 12:51 AM

2016-11-04T00:51:58-04:00

it was a Family Tradition... since 1754

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 12:54 AM

2016-11-04T00:54:50-04:00

My father who was in the Army at that time had already served in two wars, the Korean Conflict and South Vietnam. He was wounded in both, but the last one had changed him, his personality, and the way he looked at others. All of his brothers had served in the Army. One of my Uncles was a LTCOL. I decided to join the Marine Corps because three of my best friends were in the military at the time. Two were in the Marine Corps and one in the Army as a Combat Engineer. He loss his life in Vietnam to save his fellow Soldiers. Eventually he was recommended for the highest military award, and his parents received the Medal of Honor posthumously before I had graduated from high school. So I had enlisted in the Marine Corps after my summer job and left Hawaii for San Diego, CA. My father retired from the Army soon after. Serving honorably and faithful since 1949-1972. The rest of my career in the Marine Corps was challenging and rewarding. So much that instead of getting out after four years, I had reenlist for another four. The rest is history.

Semper Fidelis,

Gunner Kaupe

Response by SPC Phil Norton made Nov 4 at 2016 1:01 AM

2016-11-04T01:01:10-04:00

I wanted to be a Marine because they had the coolest uniforms that's 17 yr old thinking for ya but then I found out I would have to be a Navy Corp man and wear a Navy uniform so I went with the family tradition and joined the Army NG after basic my DI talked me into going regular army no regrets

Response by Maj John Bell made Nov 4 at 2016 1:01 AM

2016-11-04T01:01:15-04:00

My Dad was a Navy fighter pilot during WWII and Korea. When they phased out prop fighters he switched to the Anti-Submarine Warfare and flew P-2's until they threw him out after 30 years of service. I attended the Naval Academy because I wanted to be a Navy fighter pilot. One of my concerns going in was that I might be forced to go Marine.

When I got to Annapolis, in short order I was in awe of the Marine Officers and SNCO's there. They carried themselves differently. They thought differently. They were stiff and formal and had this really cool anachronistic black and white view of the world. At the same time, they were really helpful, and never too busy to listen or to answer questions. It was like religious warrior monks were walking amongst us. I said I got to have that. Service selection night I chose Marines, never regretted it.

I will admit that once I hit the fleet, not all the Marine Officers were what I saw at USNA, but almost every GySgt and above enlisted Marine was. I tried my best to be what hooked me.

Response by SPC Steven Schoenhut made Nov 4 at 2016 1:11 AM

2016-11-04T01:11:20-04:00

My Grandfather and Father were both Army, my uncle was Air force and by the time I was a senior my cousin was a Marine. I sat down and talked to all of them, but didn't ask the right questions I guess. The Marine Corps recruiters loved me at the time and were showing me off on the weight bench to other people that came in the doors. They supported me in football and weight lifting by coming to all of my meets and matches. I loved the idea of the Crucible and was set to go... Found out only Corpsmen come from the Navy and there was no way I could choose that after joining the Marines... I was mad and walked across the hall and it didn't matter what branch of service it was... turned out ARMY so here I am.

Response by PFC Timothy Clements made Nov 4 at 2016 2:46 AM

2016-11-04T02:46:49-04:00

Don't like the ocean, so no navy, can't be a pilot vision is bad, so no air force, did not like the term jar head, so no Marines, so Army it was, in my opinion the only choice.

Response by SMSgt James Pierce made Nov 4 at 2016 8:11 AM

2016-11-04T08:11:54-04:00

Since I was 15 YO I knew I wanted to get into the Air Force to work with aircraft. Once I was 18, I signed up and got an aircraft maintenance job. 26 years later, I've finished a great career and entered retirement. If I had my choice, I would join the AF again.

Response by SFC Dennis A. made Nov 4 at 2016 8:34 AM

2016-11-04T08:34:46-04:00

My Army Recruiter was the most up front with me and I got what I wanted.

Response by LTC Tom Jones made Nov 4 at 2016 8:36 AM

2016-11-04T08:36:49-04:00

I think it said "Army" on my Draft notice; April 16th, 1967 which just happened to be my 21st (Happy!) Birthday.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 8:49 AM

2016-11-04T08:49:44-04:00

Well.....I thought it in my current state at the time (this was 5.5 years ago so my attitude has changed).

Army- Because I didn't want to spend deployments with sand in my butt. My husband was prior Army and so was my other uncle, my grandfather (aka Army Air Corps), My husband's grandfather.......you get the picture.
Marine Corps- *snickers* yeah, right.
Air Force- Didn't want to see my ex again (prior AF)
Coast Guard- didn't really think about this one
Navy- because my husband mentioned it, dared me to go talk to a recruiter, and I wanted to be different.

Glad that I made my decision too!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 9:03 AM

2016-11-04T09:03:38-04:00

it seemed like army boot camp at the time was not as tough as marines and not as easy as airforce or navy plus it just felt right to go army.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Nov 4 at 2016 9:06 AM

2016-11-04T09:06:14-04:00

Because the Army recruiter never called me back. But the Marines kept in constant contact, so they swayed me very easily.

Response by SPC Makissa Lewis made Nov 4 at 2016 9:14 AM

2016-11-04T09:14:22-04:00

After I took the Asvab, the Army, were the first to make contact. I don't regret my decision. Though, I realize I like wearing earrings with my uniform, so maybe Air Force would have been a better choice.

Response by SGT Richard DeVoe made Nov 4 at 2016 9:23 AM

2016-11-04T09:23:25-04:00

My Father and Uncle were both Navy. Another Uncle was Army, and a couple of Air Force and Coast Guard in the mix. I took the ASVAB with the Navy and was really considering Navy Shore Patrol. When my test scores came back the SCPO sat me down and told me the only thing that he could do for me was a Nuclear Specialist on a Sub. This boy can't swim and you are going to put me under water, THAT WAS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN. I went next door to the Marine Corps and signed up for Aviation Supply. I served 13 years with a plan to do 20, but got caught in the Force Reductions after Desert Storm. I was out a couple years and questioned why I was giving up those 13 years. I talked with the Marine Reserve and found that for me to go back in I was going to be drilling between 4 and 6 hours away. I could not see that so I talk to the ANG and joined the local unit with a bonus and I completed another 8 years to retirement. I am still a Marine at Heart but I did enjoy my time with the Army as well. We are all one big happy family.

Response by Mike Jay made Nov 4 at 2016 9:26 AM

2016-11-04T09:26:43-04:00

Joined the Navy based on a "cool" video the recruiter showed me. As a 17 year old, had no clue what I was getting into. After my first tour, I left and came back in as an Officer in the US Army. Following reasons for switch/joining the Army.
I don't get meals served to me, let alone in a separate facility. I eat and fight WITH my troops.
I don't worry about my pretty khakis getting dirty. Don't wear pretty colors, I wear Multicams, and get dirty WITH my troops (ruck march, assault an objective, SERE training etc.)
BLUF: Army taught me to lead Soldiers/Warriors in battle to and fight to win,
Navy taught me to effectively strip and wax decks and shine objects REALLY WELL...

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Nov 4 at 2016 9:49 AM

2016-11-04T09:49:59-04:00

I joined the AF because I scored high enough on the ASVAB to have the choice......

No, seriously though, I joined the AF because my dad and most of my uncles were Army. They all stressed going AF or Navy because the quality of life was so much better. Add that to the fact the AF had the technical career paths I was looking for and the decision was an easy one.

We may pick on and tease each other but I have nothing but respect for my brothers and sisters from the other services. At the end of the day, we're all on the same team even if our jerseys are a bit different.

Response by SSG Kyle Stromgren made Nov 4 at 2016 10:15 AM

2016-11-04T10:15:00-04:00

I went into the USAR for the tuition waiver at the UH in the late '70's failed out then went active Army. Dad had retired in 1975 from the Army and was teaching JROTC at high school in Hawaii, just felt right no going back to basic. Was interesting having my father swear me in.

Response by Sgt Larry Irvine made Nov 4 at 2016 10:37 AM

2016-11-04T10:37:17-04:00

I was in a bad place and decided to test how truly bad ass I was.
I wasn't !

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Nov 4 at 2016 10:46 AM

2016-11-04T10:46:04-04:00

Because as a boy growing up we never ran around the backyard playing Navy or Air Force? We may have actually played at being Marines but we still called it 'Playing Army'.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 10:51 AM

2016-11-04T10:51:34-04:00

I went to the Air Force as a 1st choice since my father was in the Air Force, I could not get a high enough ASVAB socore so I tried the army.

Response by MSgt Richard Randall made Nov 4 at 2016 10:58 AM

2016-11-04T10:58:25-04:00

I won the lottery in 1970 with #46 so I knew it was a matter of time before Uncle Sam said it was time to go. I had nothing at all against any of the services so I started thinking about enlisting before getting drafted. My II-S college deferment had expired and I was reclassified 1-A. My dad was Army in the South Pacific in WW II and he didn’t like the idea of me going to South Vietnam. My grandmother begged me not to go anywhere near the military because her son, my uncle, was KIA/MIA (still is) in North Korea. My cousin, a Marine, lost half his foot in the battle of Hue City so he wasn’t really cranked about Southeast Asia, either. I had a friend who joined the Air Force straight out of high school as an avionics technician. He seemed to be pretty happy with his decision even though he kept rotating between Utapao or Udorn, Thailand. I thought that might be a pretty spiffy job so I went down and took the ASVAB. I scored between 95 and 99 on all the tests. Took the score sheet to the AF recruiter and he said I could go in almost immediately without any guarantee of a specific career field or I could wait for an opening. I enlisted a couple of weeks after our meeting.

About halfway through basic they handed out orders. My first set of orders said I was being assigned to a Red Horse Squadron at Phu Cat, South Vietnam. A couple of days later I was called into the squadron commander’s office where he gave me amended orders to Minot AFB, North Dakota with almost a year's worth of tech school at Chanute AFB, Illinois. I was going to be an ICBM rocket man. I guess ASVAB scores matter after all.

Response by SGT William Howell made Nov 4 at 2016 10:58 AM

2016-11-04T10:58:35-04:00

The only branch that would take a high school dropout was the Navy.

15 years later I wanted to go where I could kill some of those motherfuckers that attacked my country and I could not get there on a boat. I was in the Army a week after Sept 11th.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Nov 4 at 2016 11:12 AM

2016-11-04T11:12:58-04:00

(US ARMY) because my father was a 2 time KOREAN war veteran, I picked Field Artillery because Molly Picture is represented from my Home town in Carlisle PA and she is buried there as well, but I never knew her history went as far as it did in the Artillery as it did, because when I was inducted to the Order of St. Barb's, I was a single NCO, but later I was married and my BN Commander awarded my wife the Ancient Order of Molly Picture to my Wife for volunteer work while I was deployed to Iraq. I later became a major history buff on Artillery on the true meaning of Molly Picture and REDLEGS and the symbols you see above us. I made sure that my soldier knew what their unit crest stood for and their combat patch and unit patch stood for, There my true meaning why I pick the US ARMY and did my 20 years of service and most of them I was deployed and my 19th year I go married, If the ARMY wanted me to have Family it would issued me one. But I found love before the ARMY took its love away from me. You can't love the ARMY forever.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Nov 4 at 2016 11:13 AM

2016-11-04T11:13:28-04:00

I started my military career in the Army right out of high school. I wanted a 3 year enlistment and I wanted to go to Germany. The Army was the only branch with a standard 3 year enlistment (all the others had a minimum 4 year enlistment). Both the Army and Air Force were in Germany in large numbers, but the AF enlistment was 4 years. Plus all my family had been in the Army. It was a no brainer.

Years later, when I went into the Air Force (Air Guard), I chose the AF over the Army because the living conditions were many times better than in the Army. I then switched to the Air Force Reserves because the promotion opportunities were better and they deployed much less often than the Guard.

Response by LTC Tim Ellis made Nov 4 at 2016 11:17 AM

2016-11-04T11:17:17-04:00

I wanted to be in tanks and the guidance counselor told me the Army had a lot more tanks than the USMC, so more opportunities. (I'm guessing she had talked to a recruiter) Seemed to make sense as most of the books I had read talked about tanks in the Army. such is the reasoning of an 18 year old, but it turned out well, can't complain.

Response by MSgt Richard Rountree made Nov 4 at 2016 11:30 AM

2016-11-04T11:30:03-04:00

I graduated from high school at age 17 in 1972. My career path at the time was to drive freight like my dad did. Problem was in 1972 you had to be several years older with the appropriate driving experience to get a commercial driver license. My dad, a WWII Army Air Corps veteran, suggested I join the military to kill some time and get my service commitment out of the way. I was already an aviation enthusiast with some Civil Air Patrol cadet time and some USAF Junior ROTC in high school. Other factors were the war in Vietnam and the draft. I decided I would rather be in the USAF on my terms than the U.S. Army on their terms. My goal was to do my 4 years and come home to drive trucks. Something funny happened on the way to that goal... I liked the Air Force. My goal changed to make MSgt and retire at twenty years at the ripe old age of 37. I did exactly that, retiring at 20 years and 13 days of service in 1992. When I retired, I got a job driving for JB Hunt hauling freight in the lower 48 and Canada. I got off the truck in 1993 and 3 years later founded the company that I still run today.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 12:06 PM

2016-11-04T12:06:56-04:00

The AF would take me (2 speeding tickets).
My friends all joined the Marine Corps. The recruiter told me to go Navy Corpsman and get assigned to the Marines. I did.
Later I applied for PT school and the Army picked me.
22 years later here I am.

Response by PO3 John Whiteman made Nov 4 at 2016 4:05 PM

2016-11-04T16:05:50-04:00

Family tradition

Response by PO3 Michael James made Nov 4 at 2016 5:08 PM

2016-11-04T17:08:41-04:00

Love Boating, Have to have HOT food, and really appreciate a DRY BED.. Thank you...

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Nov 4 at 2016 6:25 PM

2016-11-04T18:25:18-04:00

I wanted Army and even was scheduled to go to MEPS. However my friend took me to see the Marine recruiter. I was sold. I found while talking to the Marines how much BS the Army recruiter fed me just to get me to join. Believe it or not the Marine recruiter was straight up honest with me.
Though I never did get the MOS I was promised. Space shuttle door gunner. I got over it though.

Response by SSgt Jeff Whitmore made Nov 4 at 2016 8:46 PM

2016-11-04T20:46:42-04:00

i picked a career to save lives. USAF Fire Protection.

Response by SSG Richard Hackwith made Nov 5 at 2016 2:58 AM

2016-11-05T02:58:45-04:00

Sometime around 1954 or 55, when I was 9 or 10 years old I watched the movie "Sahara" starring Humphrey Bogart on TV and decided I wanted to be an army tanker. Then during the summer of 1964, I decided the time was right. I went to the recruiting office an said "I want armor - Europe" and they said "No problem, sign here".

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Nov 6 at 2016 2:19 PM

2016-11-06T14:19:46-05:00

Family heritage in service, that being said my daughter chose the Navy and a cousin the Air Force.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2016 3:13 AM

2016-11-07T03:13:04-05:00

I joined very recently, and the reasons why I joined the USAF are fresh on my mind. I worked at a deicing company at the Anchorage international airport, and most of my coworkers were retired USAF veterans. This was their second job to say nothing of their 9 to 5 and their pensions, and they all seemed relatively successful and well off. I was going through a funk that winter two years ago, and I just started asking them about how their time in the service was. They always had something to complain about, but still said that they were glad they did it, and they enjoyed the benefits of being retired from the military. I had told myself after high school that I was only going to enlist in the military as a back up plan. Despite that, I went to an Air Force recruiter at a local shopping center. She had me do an ASVAB, on which I scored well, and had me back in after a couple days. She told me I needed to drop the weight, as USAF recruiters often do these days. I considered that (and it was true at the time), but I also considered other options. I talked to a Marine recruiter whom almost tricked me into joining their delayed entry program, and a Navy recruiter, whom I was so close to joining with. I lost the weight, and instead, emailed that USAF recruiter and the rest is history... in the making.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2016 11:10 AM

2016-11-07T11:10:07-05:00

The Air Force recruiter was always away and never returned my phone calls. Went and talked to an army recruiter and boom, three weeks later I was on a plane to BCT.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2016 1:11 PM

2016-11-07T13:11:04-05:00

I was originally trying to go for the Navy ROTC, but I was one point short on math on my SAT score. I didn't feel like retaking it again. So I enlisted in the Illinois National Guard and went through Army ROTC instead.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made Nov 7 at 2016 3:49 PM

2016-11-07T15:49:54-05:00

Family tradition family of officers except me

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2016 8:59 PM

2016-11-07T20:59:18-05:00

My brother was a marine, I was stuck between that or army. I decided the army because I could become a medic (which is what I wanted initially) and a little rivalry is always fun too! Plus many members of my family are also prior service.

Response by SSG Shavonde Chase made Nov 9 at 2016 12:34 AM

2016-11-09T00:34:59-05:00

SrA Private RallyPoint Member One thing I wish I did was to keep a journal of stories like this to pass down to my family. (Hint. Hint)

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Nov 9 at 2016 4:15 PM

2016-11-09T16:15:18-05:00

I felt it allowed me a better career when I got out. You don't see much in the line of infantryman needed asap in the paper. I made the right choice and have seen the world and would not change a thing.

Response by SGT Mary G. made Nov 10 at 2016 1:59 PM

2016-11-10T13:59:48-05:00

The Army is a family tradition. Every generation on Dad's side served in the Army, recent and all the way back to colonial times . . . except for my Collins ancestor who arrived during the War of Independence as a Captain in the French Navy (and stayed after the war).
The Air Force was still the Army Air Corp when Dad served. He probably would have joined the Air Force, otherwise! (After the military his career evolved into Avionics.) Not me! I wanted to carry on the family tradition. so did my brother.

Response by Cpl David E. Jenkins Jr. made Nov 10 at 2016 8:18 PM

2016-11-10T20:18:10-05:00

Because of the uniform

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2016 8:20 PM

2016-11-10T20:20:24-05:00

Simple - I liked airplanes.

Response by SSG Charles Long Jr. made Dec 6 at 2016 5:47 AM

2016-12-06T05:47:42-05:00

My maternal Grandfather, my father 2 of his brothers were Army. 3 of my mother's brothers were Army Air Corps. My father was field Artillery. I enlisted in the Field Artillery, but my cousin's husband was a tanker so when it came time to reup, I chose Armor. &

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2017 10:21 AM

2017-03-18T10:21:13-04:00

the army recruiter was the closest to my house.
i guess that's say a lot about my character. ;)

Response by SSG William Jones made Apr 13 at 2017 12:32 PM

2017-04-13T12:32:08-04:00

My dad was a WWII veteran of 37 months in the European Theater (infantry) and my great grandfather was also an infantryman with the Confederate States of America. Army was a no-brainer.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Apr 14 at 2017 12:18 AM

2017-04-14T00:18:04-04:00

My top list for the USAF:
Best golf courses
Best chow halls
Minimal camping required :)

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Apr 14 at 2017 12:45 AM

2017-04-14T00:45:43-04:00

I had been a Cadet in Civil Air patrol which is an Air Force Auxiliary and that got Me orientated towards the US Air Force.

Response by A1C Charlie Wilson made May 2 at 2017 12:41 PM

2017-05-02T12:41:10-04:00

I chose the Marine Corps like my older brother, but at 17 yrs old my dad refused to give his okay. Claimed worring about my brother running through the rice paddies and jungles of Vietnam caused him enough gray hair. I liked flying and being around planes, so after a lot of pleading and bagging he agreed to the Air Force.

Response by SSG Alfonso Pagan made May 2 at 2017 1:44 PM

2017-05-02T13:44:55-04:00

The branch picked me and followed me and harrassed me until finally, I joined the Army. But great recruiter other that being insistent he never lied to me.

Response by PO1 Richard Nyberg made May 2 at 2017 7:00 PM

2017-05-02T19:00:51-04:00

Well I grew up an Army Brat and was living in Germany when I Graduated from Frankfurt American High School when I joined the Army in 1966, I was the first one in my Grad class that went to Vietnam

Response by 1SG Billye Jackson made May 2 at 2017 10:48 PM

2017-05-02T22:48:43-04:00

My Dad ,My Uncle and Sgt Rock of Easy Co. LOL

Response by 1LT David Carlisle made May 2 at 2017 10:58 PM

2017-05-02T22:58:26-04:00

When I enlisted in 1983, I went in for college money. At first, I considered the USMC, as my father was a retired Gunnery Sergeant. All branches had the Veterans Education Assistance Program, which gave up to $8100 (paltry by today's programs). However, the US Army also offered The Army College Fund, which provided an additional $12,000. So it came down to $20,100, or $8,100. Pretty easy decision.
I found out shortly before my ETS that VEAP had been replaced by the Montgomery GI Bill and that I had enlisted during a window where I could have signed up for both. That would have given me $20,100 for VEAP AND $25,000 for Montgomery GI, for a total of $45,100. I could have paid for my undergraduate and Master's programs completely.

Response by Sgt John Mizell made May 3 at 2017 10:41 AM

2017-05-03T10:41:03-04:00

I went down to join the Navy, when I was 17, the navy doctor said I could not pass an eye test, I was walking down the hall, this guy saw how disappointed I was , said come into my office son, asked me to read a recruit poster, each letter was a foot talk, so I said U.S.M.C. , he said welcome aboard son.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made May 3 at 2017 4:10 PM

2017-05-03T16:10:26-04:00

Well...when I was a the recruiting office they all found out my parents were in fact married and I wasn't a rodent soooo...the others wouldn't take me and the AF said yes. LOL Gotta love service rivalry!! SERIOUSLY---My grandfather served in WWII in the Army Air Corps, my uncle served in the AF and another uncle served in the Army. The uncle from the Army said to my face...DO NOT JOIN THE ARMY, so that pretty much kept me away from that. No desire for the Marines or Navy initially as I didn't want to be out to sea on a ship with a bunch of other dudes for months on end...plus a friend of mines dad was in the Navy and he also looked me in the face and told me not to join the navy. I also wanted to fly and as an enlisted and my best option and best opportunity for that was the Air Force so off I went. I love the other services and if I had done a little more research I might have joined another branch as an officer. I almost went Navy ROTC--Marine Option as an aviator but I decided to stay with what I knew and it all worked out. I do love all my brother services and those proud heroes that wear their uniform proudly and they are all good at what they do...and there really isn't a bad choice for anyone and I would have loved to have served and would have been proud to serve in any branch.

Response by AB John Menth made May 4 at 2017 1:35 AM

2017-05-04T01:35:36-04:00

My Dad was an Army drill sergeant. I spent 17 years as an involuntary US Army recruit. Also one of my 2 (two) Uncle Dicks was a B-52 pilot in the 50s and I think early 60s and pulled the funniest stunt I've ever heard of buzzing his Dad's dairy farm in Iowa at 100 feet in his aircraft...well ..wtf did you expect me to do after all my draft number was 300 something.

John Menth
Kris and Jo
johnmenth.com
gracebiblechurch.us

Response by MSgt Brian Williams made May 4 at 2017 4:12 PM

2017-05-04T16:12:19-04:00

Didn't want to go to sea with a bunch of dudes. My Father was in the Army Air Corps during the war and I don't know which he hated more - the war or Army Air Corps. Besides I'm not a huge fan of camping out so the Army was out. So it left the Marines or the Air Force. The technical aspects of the Air Force were more appealing than the spirit of the Marines and those Marine uniforms made it a tough decision. Ultimately a friend of mine who was in the Marines (he loved it by the way) told me if you want to get married, go to the Air Force. I was engaged at the time so I went with the Air Force.

Response by PO1 Milton Conkle made May 4 at 2017 5:30 PM

2017-05-04T17:30:17-04:00

May have been seeing my brother in his Navy uniform when I was 5 or 6 years old.Same did I went to sign for the draft -walked across hall and enlisted in the Navy. I was on active duty 1 week after high school graduation.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2017 10:45 PM

2017-05-04T22:45:05-04:00

I joined the Air Force, because I wanted to become a TAC-P. Unfortunately that didn't come to fruition and now I need to finish up my contract before I can get out.

Response by PO2 Kevin Parker made May 4 at 2017 11:10 PM

2017-05-04T23:10:02-04:00

My dad was a SGM in the Army! I did Army JROTC in high school. Dad told me he'd kick my butt if I joined the Army! So Navy it was. Older brother was also Navy, but only during Vietnam.

Response by SrA A.A. Hall made May 5 at 2017 12:29 AM

2017-05-05T00:29:56-04:00

I have come from a long line of military family members. I had all intentions of going into the Navy. I had taken Naval ROTC in high school & liked it. But when the recruiter told me that they didn't have females on ships yet, I left. I looked for the Army & Marine recruiters, but their signs said out to lunch. The Air Force recruiter was in his office, so I stopped by. Told him what I was looking to do, he seemed puzzled, but said it was doable. So I signed a MOS contract for the job I wanted & I was gone in 3 months. I loved my job so much my best friend in H. S. joined a year later. When I first started on my base there were only 2 females in my unit. It took some time, but the men soon realized that I wasn't like any female they'd known. I pulled my own weight.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2017 3:56 PM

2017-05-05T15:56:40-04:00

Always wanted to be a Military Police member. When i was 21 i walked into the local recruiter office said i wanted to be an MP... started the paperwork was told to come back tomorrow to finalize some more papers. Showed up with my older brother to go over what jobs i selected and much to my dismay i was showed all the jobs except MP. After some arguing about how i had always wanted to be a Army MP to the recruiter he said he would have to speak to his boss so i should just go to lunch and come back in an hour or so. While eating my brother persuaded me to look into the Air Force Security Forces career field. Went into the AF recruiter office completed all my paperwork for the AF and was guaranteed a job as a Security Forces member. 9 Years later i can say I am very happy with my choice, not saying i wouldn't of enjoyed being in the Army.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2017 3:56 PM

2017-05-05T15:56:52-04:00

Response by 1LT Erin Berg made May 5 at 2017 6:25 PM

2017-05-05T18:25:18-04:00

I joined the Army because there was bether chances for advancement as a nurse. Also, they promised to repay my really hefty student loans.

Response by Cpl Bryan Liniewski made May 6 at 2017 9:11 AM

2017-05-06T09:11:58-04:00

Marine in dress blues is a panty dropper .....

Response by SrA Charles Hardenbrook made May 6 at 2017 4:19 PM

2017-05-06T16:19:28-04:00

I knew that the Air Force would give me for-life job training.

Response by SSgt Nicholas Merchant made May 6 at 2017 6:03 PM

2017-05-06T18:03:34-04:00

The marines told me I scored too high on the ASVAB I failed the MEPs test for the army because of a football injury so I lied to AF suffered through MEPs a second time

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made May 6 at 2017 6:03 PM

2017-05-06T18:03:41-04:00

AF, I passed the test!

Response by Sgt Dave Huff made May 7 at 2017 12:23 AM

2017-05-07T00:23:20-04:00

My degree is in Music Education. I knew that I was ripe for the draft (1967) so I chose the Air Force and spent 4 years in an AF Band. Good choice for me. And, really good training for me as I became a High School band director for over 30 years.

Response by SSgt Mike Finch made May 7 at 2017 12:47 AM

2017-05-07T00:47:31-04:00

Dad said if I joined the Army, he'd break both my legs. At 17, I had an unlikely epiphany. After 21 years in the Army, the old man might actually know what he was talking about.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made May 7 at 2017 7:55 PM

2017-05-07T19:55:50-04:00

Initially, the MEPS recruiter wanted to sign me for some administrative specialist post. But I asked the MEPS recruiter for an combat branch MOS other than Infantry because I wanted to be outside and if war broke out I wanted to do my part. When he came back with 13N, I liked the idea of serving in a nuclear missile unit because this was the eighties and we were convinced the next war would be nuclear. The Russians never came and we were not invited to Desert Storm. Nevertheless I TDYed in Crete each year and participated in two live fires, the second of which I gunned for and got the AAM. Germany was a blast and I had a lot of fun.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made May 7 at 2017 8:28 PM

2017-05-07T20:28:43-04:00

Two reasons. Older brother was AF. Second reason. Worked in a chain super market and bagged my recruitiner groceries. Pretty bad reason.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made May 8 at 2017 12:11 AM

2017-05-08T00:11:49-04:00

My Dad slogged through the Battle of the Bulge during WWII, then spent time on Navy ships coming home after the war was over. As I bounced in and out of college and was probably getting ready to face the draft he gave me this advice: "If you're in the Army you're going to sleep in the mud; if you're in the Navy you get fed beans three times a day; if you're in the Air Force you have a warm bed each night and three good meals a day". So, when the time came I did join the AF, for different reasons, and, ironically, the same day I held up my hand to take the enlistment oath my draft notice came in the mail.

Response by PO1 Richard Landon made May 8 at 2017 9:28 AM

2017-05-08T09:28:37-04:00

Joined the NAVY because I was ( and still am ) fascinated by carrier aviation
, And wanted to see as much of the world as I could. Also, When my older brother joined the Air Force I knew if I went Air Force most of my family would think that I was just following my older brother (we both have an unending love of aviation ), So I went NAVY, And never regretted it for a moment.

Response by SrA Derrek Cherry made May 11 at 2017 8:31 PM

2017-05-11T20:31:44-04:00

Well after about 4 years of thinking about it. I talked to the Marines, Air Force, and then the Navy. I got all the paperwork started for joining the Navy (Hoping for BUDs training) Got to the High School Diploma part and I showed them I had a GED from being homeschooled. And the Navy said Oh, we don't except GEDs! Just then the Air Force recruiter walked in and said the Air Force accepts GEDs! So I said goodbye to my SEAL dreams and joined the Air Force! While joining the Air Force I attempted one last shot, this time for SCUBA, and missed the cut off by 2 points. So I gave Special Forces a rest and went in Open Mechanical! Got a great job as Aircraft Fuel System Repair!

Response by SSgt John Carter made May 18 at 2017 1:11 PM

2017-05-18T13:11:59-04:00

I joined two. I picked the Navy to travel. I picked the Air Force because of the technical proficiency and reputation towards excellence.

Response by SPC Bill Blauser made Jul 1 at 2017 8:16 AM

2017-07-01T08:16:52-04:00

Army was the only branch that allowed split training. I was joining the Reserves and since I was already in college, I didn't have to miss a semester due to military training.

Response by SrA Charles Hardenbrook made Jul 6 at 2017 2:53 PM

2017-07-06T14:53:10-04:00

I was tired of working low paying jobs. Coming from an Air Force family, and loving aircraft, the Air Force was the only option. Received my choice of AFSC and only a state away from my first duty station request assignment. The training received has given me a very good career, and subsequent retirement. Retired from DoD as GS-12. Thanks, USAF.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2017 3:00 PM

2017-07-06T15:00:12-04:00

The Army paid me while I was in DEP - and gave me college loan repayment. The AF called after I already picked the Army and I told the recruiter that I already signed with the Army. He said "I can get you out of that."

Response by PO1 Richard Nyberg made Jul 6 at 2017 4:42 PM

2017-07-06T16:42:50-04:00

Mainly because I was an Army Brat and we were living in Germany at the time. I graduated from Frankfurt High School in June 1966 and went into the Army in July and was in Vietnam in Jan 1967

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2017 9:45 PM

2017-07-06T21:45:35-04:00

I chose Army for several reasons, first, my uncle, grandfather, and several others in my family were Army. Moreover, the Army is the largest branch so it made sense to me that there would be more room for advancement. Finally, I wanted to be able to go part-time if I wanted and I liked the concept of the National Guard (the oldest of our military forces which can be federalized for missions, combat deployments, etc., but also help out the state for state missions), however, guard options only exist in the Army and Air Force.

Response by MSgt Brian Williams made Jul 17 at 2017 6:11 PM

2017-07-17T18:11:17-04:00

I chose the Air Force because everyone I talked to said the AF always treated their people better. had better duty stations, better facilities, and better training. The funny thing is I served in three joint assignments - two Stateside and one overseas - the Army was either the installation host or sponsoring service.

Response by PO1 Gery Bastiani made Aug 9 at 2017 10:02 PM

2017-08-09T22:02:58-04:00

my dad was career Navy 26 yrs, served in WWII and Korea. Retired in 59 with 26 yrs of service. But he was fleet and I was a Seabee lol

Response by LCpl Clarence Baggett made Aug 12 at 2017 12:40 PM

2017-08-12T12:40:17-04:00

Drafted....picked for Marine Corps

Response by Maj Mike Sciales made Aug 13 at 2017 10:28 PM

2017-08-13T22:28:36-04:00

In 1971 the USAF recruiter asked me 3 questions. "Do you like good coffee, sleeping on clean sheets and air conditioning?" When I told him I did he said "We can give you that - they (pointing at the other recruiter offices) won't."
I signed up.

Response by SSgt Shaun Egan made Oct 6 at 2017 6:58 PM

2017-10-06T18:58:30-04:00

I joined the USAF...but almost (almost!!) the Navy. I wanted the Navy because they had a kick-ass electronics program and I could finish college before joining. On the night I was to sign, I asked the recruiter where the paragraphs were that said I got the deferment from service to attend college. He replied that that was no longer the case; I'd enlist right away. I went home and spoke to my dad who was delighted to hear I was going USAF after all. (He was a 32 year vet and one of the few flying NCOs the Air Force ever had. He'd joined the Army and migrated to the Army Air Corps and on to the USAF, retiring as a CWO2. Wow, was he happy!) My son followed suit as did my younger brother. I guess we kept it in the family after all.

Response by SPC Robert Coventry made Oct 6 at 2017 7:25 PM

2017-10-06T19:25:24-04:00

I picked the Army because my ASVAB score was high enough to get a $ 10,000 bonus to join the infantry (in 1983 10 k was more than it is now). Which was the highest amount of money offered, I needed money for college. I really wanted Coast Guard, I liked their Law Enforcement functions, but now they do a lot more law enforcement, the wait was 2 years.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Oct 8 at 2017 12:12 PM

2017-10-08T12:12:13-04:00

I entered North Georgia College (now the University of North Georgia) in 1960 and was in the ROTC program there. At that time, I was enrolled in the USMC Platoon Leaders Course (PLC) program. One of the requirement for attending the first phase of PLC was to have a "C" average. I did not have that after two quarters when the USMC determined who would attend training at Quantico that summer. During my sophomore year, I had the choice of going to PLC or signing a contract for Advanced ROTC which would lead to a commission in the Army. I choose the Army because there were more choices of career fields.

Response by Sgt Scott Brady made Oct 17 at 2017 11:24 AM

2017-10-17T11:24:01-04:00

I got lost on the way to the Navy recruiter. Ended up in the Marine Corps office.

Response by PO2 John McQueen made Oct 19 at 2017 11:48 AM

2017-10-19T11:48:36-04:00

I can't actually say why I chose the USN, but I'm sure I was influenced by being born and reared in Norfolk. When I was a pre-schooler my Mom was the secretary for the Black USO in Norfolk. I got to know some of the sailors because I went there almost every day. One guy who became a friend of our family married a local girl and retired in Norfolk. He took me to visit his ship, USS Shenandoah, at D&S when I was 4 or 5 and I had ice cream sundae with the Captain.

Response by SFC David Clark made Oct 30 at 2017 3:02 PM

2017-10-30T15:02:59-04:00

I joined the United States Army on October 29, 1975. I had long hair and was working in a gas station. I knew this was not a career job. I went to several large established companies and everyone had a sign on their front doors “not hiring” “not giving out job applications” so on a Tuesday I made up my mind to join the Army. I was sitting on the door step of my recruiters office at 0730 hours. He showed up a short time later. Took the pre-test then went to the processing center. After the ASVAB test and physical he asked me what I wanted to be. I replied “combat engineer” his response was it would be 10 months before I could leave. He then suggested Military Police. I said my father was an MP and I agreed. I was on a Greyhound bus at 1710 hours headed to Fort Leonard Wood. I did not tell anybody, not even my parents. 20 years later I retired.

Response by SFC David Clark made Oct 30 at 2017 3:10 PM

2017-10-30T15:10:05-04:00

I Joined the Army in 1975 in Kansas City, MO. In 1979 I was selected to be an Army Recruiter. I was stationed in Johnstown, PA. There I wound up working for the Recruiter that enlisted me.

Response by CW5 Edward "Tate" Jones Jr. made Oct 30 at 2017 3:28 PM

2017-10-30T15:28:18-04:00

Father AND Mother served in uniform in France during WWII. Father ended up serving during WWII, Korea AND VN. He and I were stationed in VN at the same time.

Response by SMSgt Sheila Berg made Nov 5 at 2017 8:34 PM

2017-11-05T20:34:31-05:00

Joined the Air Force because I was an Army brat.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2017 8:34 PM

2017-11-21T20:34:39-05:00

Because I didn't want to wait to join the Air Force, wasn't awed by the Marine Corps and knew that to be Navy or Coast Guard I would have to know how to swim. So Army it was as a 17 year old high school junior who did the split option route.

Response by PO2 Dale Brown made Dec 20 at 2017 8:59 AM

2017-12-20T08:59:38-05:00

I grew up reading C.S.Forrester’s Hornblower novels while living in the high desert of California, in a family that has had at least 1 family member serve since the 1st Braun deserted from the Hessian Army to become an American-so 5 years in the Navy for me, it was Everything I thought it would be- served on Long Beach (among others) the Navy’s Last True Cruiser.

Response by SMSgt Sheila Berg made Dec 26 at 2017 8:25 AM

2017-12-26T08:25:06-05:00

I joined the Air Force because I was fascinated with air planes. My father brought me to an Air Show. Plus I was an Army brat.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2018 9:26 PM

2018-01-08T21:26:37-05:00

Most of my extended family is either Army or Air Force so I only had two choices (sarcastic but true). I scored high enough for the Air Force recruiter to call me multiple times, but I wanted to earn ribbons for something other than attending a school so I joined the Army.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2018 11:35 PM

2018-01-08T23:35:13-05:00

When I decided to come back in after a 13 year break in service, I researched all options. I ended up on the Coast Guard because it closely matched my personal and professional goals. I enjoyed being on the water, in my community and I was/am a law enforcement officer. Initially as a junior officer I was able to enjoy that a good bit. Now as I promote up, its a lot less but still rewarding.

Response by SSG William Jones made Jan 13 at 2018 7:30 PM

2018-01-13T19:30:43-05:00

Because my dad served in the Army 1942-1945 in the European theatre. I wanted to be like him. Is that not love and respect for a father? I think it is. May he rest in peace (1905-1994). Both of us came out of the Army as Staff Sergeants. Dad was an attorney but didn't want a commission, subsequently serving in the infantry.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Jan 13 at 2018 7:33 PM

2018-01-13T19:33:20-05:00

I had taken three years of Army JROTC in high school and it seemed a normal transition point for me. I'm satisfied with that decision.

But also, my father had been an old horse soldier (cavalry) stationed at Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, before he married my mother. When I had five years in service, Dad gave me his old .45 holster, at which I dyed it black, spit-shined it, and carried with me overseas and with my jumps.

Response by TSgt Joe C. made Jan 14 at 2018 2:09 AM

2018-01-14T02:09:03-05:00

I chose the USAF as I am now a third generation Airman! GrandDad was here at the beginning with just after WWII and Korea! Dad fought in the Vietnam War. Me....I fought in OIF and continue to serve. Three generations....proud to serve!

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jan 14 at 2018 7:16 AM

2018-01-14T07:16:08-05:00

Wanted to do something different than my uncles(Navy WWII).

Response by SrA Charles Hardenbrook made Jan 14 at 2018 9:23 PM

2018-01-14T21:23:32-05:00

I came from an Air Force family so to join the Air Force was like being home. I was expecting training in a job carrier of my choice which I received. I was successful choosing the carrier due to my test resents and a little favoritism because of the Air Force family.

Response by SGT Michael Schmiesing made Mar 21 at 2018 9:12 PM

2018-03-21T21:12:51-04:00

I thought the Navy was too much Tom Cruise. I thought the Air Force was a bunch of little girls or whining bitches, and the Marines are stone cold killers. But that's just a joke so lol. Really I was called to serve my God in the military, the US Army as a Chaplains Assistant. I was in 12 years until I was medically discharged.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Mar 22 at 2018 11:09 AM

2018-03-22T11:09:00-04:00

Because I scored high enough is my sarcastic reply but USAF offered me the best options for my intended career path at the time.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2018 10:41 AM

2018-03-23T10:41:45-04:00

Navy has ballistic missile submarines. Even though I ended up being Called to chaplaincy, I still went Navy.

Response by PO1 Tom Follis made Apr 9 at 2018 6:59 PM

2018-04-09T18:59:44-04:00

Navy. Have seen the world 3 times in 21 years. I’d do it again.

Response by SPC Patricia K. (Williams) Elliott made Apr 9 at 2018 7:14 PM

2018-04-09T19:14:35-04:00

Was trying to join the Coast Guard but was having problems passing the math portion of the entrance exam. I had already passed the Army and Air Force exams so when I failed the exam for the 3rd time I left the CG office and went straight to the Army recruiter. A month later February 14th 1974 I was on my way to basic.

Response by PO2 Loren Gilmore made Apr 9 at 2018 7:24 PM

2018-04-09T19:24:17-04:00

I grew up as an Army brat so Ihad seen my fair share of that green uniform as dad was a career soldier. I had two uncles that were in the Navy, one in the SeaBee's and the other one was a door gunner with a helicoptor squadron. Wanted to go into the SeaBee's and become an Equipment Operator like one uncle but was told I had to wait 5 weeks but the good news was that I could go in as a Corpsman as my second choice in two weeks. I chose Corpsman. Was not watching my John Wayne movies too closely cause when on the second day in Corps School in San Diego they told us that every fifth class that graduates goes up the road to Camp Pendelton and serves with the Marines. Shaking my head along with a few other guys the instructor said that the Marines rely on the Navy for their medical needs, when a Marine gets shot after he yells for his momma he hollers out Corpsman! So into a green uniform I go. =) Doc Gilly.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2018 10:22 AM

2018-05-07T10:22:13-04:00

I was young and naive and I thought the US Navy required that you must know how to swim. Instead, I joined the US
Army where you can "be all that you can be."

Response by 1SG Clifford Barnes made May 28 at 2018 6:16 PM

2018-05-28T18:16:36-04:00

I didn’t I got drafted and just enjoyed the esprit de Corp and stayed in until I met my wife because I was getting married and was going to see my new bride 24 months later lol. I was told if you were going to have a wife the Army would issue one. I went into the reserves and later the Guard and had a total of 41 years service. Vietnam, Kosovo Bosnia Korea and had 13 years active duty

Response by 1SG Clifford Barnes made May 28 at 2018 6:22 PM

2018-05-28T18:22:03-04:00

I got drafted and went reserves and Guard for the rest. Vietnam Korea Bosnia 2 trips to Kosovo. I would have stayed except I was going to get married and she couldn’t go wit me for 2 years and I said no. Army told me if you were to have a wife we would issue you one. This was 1977 lol.

Response by SSgt Robert Prest made May 28 at 2018 6:43 PM

2018-05-28T18:43:38-04:00

in 75 my locker partner in high school came up to me one day and said "Hay I just joined the Marine Corp and I got Campbell to sign up. If you sign up I will get PFC out of boot camp" so that Saturday I went down to the Recruiters office as signed up. He stayed 4 years and I ended up retiring in 95.

Response by PO1 Frank Reiffenstein made Jul 4 at 2018 12:25 PM

2018-07-04T12:25:22-04:00

Navy because my best friends Dad was in the Navy.

Response by PO1 Frank Reiffenstein made Jul 8 at 2018 12:27 PM

2018-07-08T12:27:10-04:00

My good friends Dad,RMCM (RET) talked with me and that night I knew I would join the Navy.

Response by SP5 Vincent Kamp made Sep 12 at 2018 2:55 AM

2018-09-12T02:55:48-04:00

it was what I wanted since I was a small boy I wanted to be in the Army and I served three tours in Viet Nam in I corp. DMZ area and 10 years total in the army I never regreted it

Response by SGT ArmyVet82ndABN . made Sep 27 at 2018 3:11 PM

2018-09-27T15:11:11-04:00

Army brat so I was born into my branch :)

Response by AB John Menth made Nov 16 at 2018 1:36 AM

2018-11-16T01:36:58-05:00

Because my father was a US Army Drill Instructor...and one of my Uncles was a B-52 pilot in the 50s.

Response by Cpl TMike Barnes made Nov 25 at 2018 10:59 PM

2018-11-25T22:59:28-05:00

Following in my Father's Footsteps...

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2018 3:44 PM

2018-12-22T15:44:53-05:00

I wanted to be like my Dad.

Response by CW4 Alex DeLorey made Jan 1 at 2019 2:12 PM

2019-01-01T14:12:09-05:00

I went to the recruiting station to join the Air Force but the recruiter was out for lunch. SFC Prescott, US Army across the hall apparently didn’t take lunch and offered me a cup of Coffee while the USAF recruiter was out. Within a month I was headed off to Army Boot Camp. No regrets. SFC Prescott took care of me and put me in a good MOS with solid career progression.

Response by SGT Charles Tillman made Jan 18 at 2019 8:56 AM

2019-01-18T08:56:09-05:00

Family tradition. My Father was a WW2 D day veteran. I was proud to follow him and enlisted in ‘62.

Response by SPC David Roberts made Jan 25 at 2019 1:02 AM

2019-01-25T01:02:34-05:00

The Army recruiter called me first when I was a high school senior looking to escape from a troubled home.

Response by PO1 Michael Wynn made Jan 27 at 2019 9:37 PM

2019-01-27T21:37:38-05:00

Training in electronics, also advanced electronics + quicker advancement which was true.

Response by SN Craig Ralston made Jan 28 at 2019 12:11 AM

2019-01-28T00:11:38-05:00

I went into the recruiters office with every intention of joining the Marines, After talking with the recruiter for about a half hour I went over to the Navy recruiter, I was offered E3 after boot camp, went back the the Marines and the best they would do is E2, Even as a 17 year old kid I knew theat E3 was better pay than E2.

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made Feb 6 at 2019 11:14 PM

2019-02-06T23:14:10-05:00

I joined the US ARMY my father served during Korea conflict, so I followed in his foot steps and proud to have served

Response by LCpl Laurence Puco made Mar 6 at 2019 8:36 AM

2019-03-06T08:36:08-05:00

My Father served in WWII, USMC Airplane mechanic, MCAS Cherry Point, NC, so I guess I followed in his footsteps.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2019 11:40 AM

2019-03-11T11:40:53-04:00

In 1966, you were either in college or drafted. At the time, at MEPS we were lined up and sent either to the Army or the Marines. At Fort Leonard Wood, I qualified for OCS and asked for Field Artillery. When I returned to Kansas to go to finish my degree, I joined the National Guard. When I graduated I went full time. Now, once a month the eagle comes by and leaves a deposit in my nest. What a great time and life.

Response by SrA A.A. Hall made Mar 19 at 2019 1:53 PM

2019-03-19T13:53:23-04:00

Just about everyone in my family ( past & present) had been in the military at one time or another. My dad had started out in the Navy during WWll, but changed branches around the 60's. Became a Medic in Vietnam. I loved the ocean, so i joined my H.S. NROTC & the CAP. Wanted to be on a ship or submarine, but when i graduated they still didn't have females on board ships of any kind. Why be in the Navy if your land locked. So i left the navy's recruiter's office, the other two were closed, but the AF was open. Told him i wanted to be a Jet Mechanic he asked if i was sure, i said yes. Was told to pick up a 70 lb tool box & put it in the back of a pick-up truck. I did, so i signed a contract & was gone in 2 wks. Best choic ever. Loved my job, loved my unit. Was 31st FMS for a long time. Lots of TDY's.

Response by PO3 Rodney Speed made Nov 7 at 2019 6:30 PM

2019-11-07T18:30:29-05:00

My father was a career Navy Chief Petty Officer and I followed his lead.

Response by Cpl TMike Barnes made Mar 3 at 2020 5:53 PM

2020-03-03T17:53:12-05:00

My Dad was one,he told me to join the Army because it was easier, I wanted to be like my Dad...

Response by A1C Ricky Bosner made Jul 27 at 2020 7:14 PM

2020-07-27T19:14:03-04:00

I had more brains to help the Air Force

Response by SSG Shavonde Chase made Oct 13 at 2020 10:58 AM

2020-10-13T10:58:27-04:00

It’s funny that this post resurfaced on my steam because I was just thinking about this this morning. I’m working on putting together an ASVAB course and was thinking of inviting recent veterans of each branch to speak on why they picked their branch, how their experience compared to their expectations, and what they wish they knew before joining. If anyone is interested, please send me message.