I am 18 yrs old (female) and have decided to join the Marine Corps. I am the oldest of 3 kids, my mother is a single parent who is currently not had a job after being layed off 7 yrs ago from a job she had for 18 yrs. My father is not actively involved in my life, he has been a custodian for Colombia University the past 17 years. I want better for myself, so i have chose the military as a stepping stone to shape a career. I figure its better to do it this way than have to work and go to college, in which i will be working to pay off college. I feel like i am in a predicament but i am sure this is something i would love to do. I understand the circumstances and the risk which i am willing to take. I just wonder am i being selfish to my mother and siblings at home? Is this the right way to set an example for those i have looking up to me?
2007-02-06 05:22:04 · 4 answers · asked by Secretlyfe 2 in Family & Relationships ➔ Other - Family & Relationships
It seems to me that you made up your mind. I wish you the very best.
I have been involved with the military for many years. I served and would not trade those memories for anything. I saw and did things and had opportunities to visit other places.
Since you ask, I will give you my honest opinion. It is a very hard life for a person to be a Marine, you will be a warrior first and everything else will take a back seat. We need Marines and I'm grateful for them. I could not be one, I could not make that kind of a sacrifice. I was a fire fighter in the AF, and now from that experience I'm one on the out side for the last 18 years.
However, It has been my experience that the Marines are the first to kick you out of the service if you get injured/hurt. Of all the services, they are the few for a reason. I beg you not to read into this, I like my Marine friends. They are just treated differently.
If I may, look to the Air Force. The AF has the most family life of any of the services. They also have more jobs that you can do on the outside. It's much easier to have your own family and stay in the service.
Speaking of that regardless of your branch, choose a job that you can do on the outside.
There comes a time that you have to live your life. I'm sure there will be issues dealing with your parents and siblings. That will never end. I'm in my 40ies and it never ends! Give them love, what more can anyone do?
Sign up for he GI Bill and pay the extra. Whatever your school, be the best. Study. I say this as when I when to my tech school some of the kids chose to party with their free time. Just make the best of your time in the service. I like moderation in all things. It was a good decision for me. I went to college on the GI Bill. I bought my home using the VA loan program.
Send money home, write often and when you can, visit. Make sure you're still a part of your family.
I do care about you and wish you the very best with your decision. I hope I was helpful sharing my opinions and thoughts.
semper fi
Corps and Country
2007-02-06 06:16:51 · answer #1 · answered by ? 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Since you mention that you are aware of the risks that you would take at this time by entering the military services it sounds to me as if you have thought this out. It is very difficult to work to put yourself thru college, having homework and other responsibilities and still end up paying off college loans for years afterwards. This sounds like a great way to get the money for an education plus the added benefit of training the military offers. I think your mother and siblings should be very proud of you, although they will worry for your safety and well-being if you are sent to a dangerous port. I say best of luck and may God Bless you for your willingness to join the services at this time and serve your country with pride.
2007-02-06 05:38:11 · answer #2 · answered by tersey562 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Go for it! It's probably one of the best choices in your life. I'm currently 14 and have gone to marine corp bootcamp. (The foods great, beside for the MREs of course.) They help you found your leadership potentials and succeed in life. Most of my friends are planning on joining the military in the near future. If you enjoying meeting new people and experiencing a new hardship, I highly suggest you take the chance. If you're family and friends don't understand why just explain to them you need to do this and they would be proud when you come back. Cause I can promise they will.
2007-02-06 06:10:10 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
.What are you waiting for ?.. Go prepare for your future. This is a great opportunity and education you cannot afford to pass up. .Mom can tend to herself and i am sure she will tend to her other children. Do not pass up this opportunity.. The Marines was the best thing to happen to my son. Best wishes to you..
2007-02-06 05:45:19 · answer #4 · answered by Bunnie 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋