How long should I wait before joining the military?

Question

Most of my life I've never thought I would ever join the military. Then about 2 months ago I had a paradigm shift, and now I think there's a good chance I'll do it. However, I know how dangorous impulsive decisions can be, so I want to make sure I really want to do this. My Army recruiter said 2 months is a long time to be thinking about the military, but I think its ridiculously short. He also reccommended I join this summer, but I think thats crazy. At the very least, I'll wait until I talk to all branches of the military, and then I'll have some serious discussions with my uncle and grandfather (both veterans). After that, how long should I wait before making my decision?

Answer 1

First off, don't listen to the recruiter, they are there just for one purpose...to get people to join.

You have to make the decision yourself, so it is whatever time you think is best...at least consider about three month or longer...what ever you feel comfortable with. You are the one to have to live with your decision.

Consider other branches...what do you want to learn, what sort of job do you want to do? Think very carefully about your decision.

Answer 2

You're doing the right thing by researching different avenues. Back in the Stone Age, I had the good fortune to work with a recruiter who was an excellent soldier and an honest NCO. His advice were part of the reason I spent twenty years defending the freedom we're exercising here.

Of the Army (and military life in general) he said,
"There will be times when you love it,
there will be times when you hate it.
But you'll always be proud that you did what others could or would not."

Military life isn't for everyone. Your veteran relatives can tell you what it was like for them, but their information may be dated. I recommend you find someone in your town, a family friend, or a relative who is currently serving. Even your local National Guard Armory can give you a decent perspective.

If you do join (all services are equally important BTW) I also recommend that you research the job you're getting into before you accept it. Don't sign up for something because "it sounds cool". It helps to know what you think you really want to do in your life before you make the decision, but even if you find your choice was a mistake, the nice thing about military life is that you can change your mind later (usually at a reenlistment point, but not exclusively). And unlike civilian life, you won't lose any seniority or pay over it!

The military life not an easy life, but it's a good one. Don't believe the crap on TV or some shmoe on the bulletin boards about the current operations overseas. You can bet they haven't been there.

Finally, once you gotten some decent facts, make a decision. You don't need to have a PhD on the military before you join. Whatever your decision though, join or not, just make sure you're doing what makes you happy and is productive.

Answer 3

I thought about it for eight years... But four years seemed like forever! Took me until I was 25 to realize it was worth a shot, an I would regret it all my life if I hadn't given it a shot. When I did join, it was spur of the moment, but all the paperwork etc, took four months where I could have backed out. Evaluate WHY you want to join. This paradigm shift... Are you joining cause you can't find a job, and want one. Then SERIOUSLY consider it. If you realize it's a challenge you really want to take, go for it. Definately talk to all branches. The offers are mostly the same, but if you have a specific interest or are looking for something special, each has differences there. Also, if you might ever drink alcohol and are 21, make sure you are responsible, or wait until you are old enough. 25 was a little late to join for me. I'm a little old and set in my ways. But glad I waited until I was of legal drinking age. Being 19 and having a beer can be a career ender.

Answer 4

Screw what your recruiter told you. Take however much time you need to decide whether or not you want to join. The military will still be there if ever you decide to do it. Take the time to get all the facts and make an educated decision. The military isn't for everyone, and you shouldn't feel rushed to make a life-altering decision like this one.

In response to everyone who thinks that recruiters are desperate to get people to join, not true. Recruiters have been exceeding their quotas for a while now, they can afford to be picky. And they don't get paid per recruit, they get paid according to their pay grade, same as everyone else in the military.

Answer 5

You will be the one to determine what you will do in the service anyone of the branches is a very good choice. But, where is the question.

Marine- Paris Island, NC or San Di-ago. Both, hot Paris Island colder in the winter.

Army Infantry, including all Ranger, Airborne, Special Forces, and Air-mobile forces only one place Ft. Benning, GA.

Air-force- Texas Hot as sh!t
Navy- Lake Michigan cold as you know.

What I would suggest is manipulate your show up time to
A) The beginning of Spring
or
B) The very beginning of Fall with the idea of having all of your training completed before Summer & Winter begin.
Good Luck!
-Kevin82abn

Answer 6

NEVER believe anything a recruiter says. they are just like used car salesmen. they have a quota to meet so they will pressure you to join now so there is no chance for you to change your mind. you should talk to people who are in or have been in the military and ask for thieir advice. you should also take to a few people that are back from iraq becasue thats where you will probably end up.

Answer 7

Think twice before you believe a recruiter. They are desperate for new blood to meet their quotas. Troop casualties are escalating and the war is looking more and more like a no win situation.
Give yourself plenty of time. Talk to your family members. Choose carefully. Your life depends on it.

Answer 8

The end of the fiscal year is September 30th. A recruiter will push you to enlist so you are this year's numbers. (They get paid per recruit.) Take all the time you need... just don't wait until you're 35.

Answer 9

Yeah go MARINE Corp baby! Also remember that it is the recruiters job to get you to join so listen to him but also get the info for yourself.

Answer 10

Just do your research. When you feel you are satisfied with the amount of info you have, make your decision. Talk with current soldiers/sailors, read, read, read. If you'd like to talk about it, e-mail or IM me on AIM smeagolyduck13