how to tell family your joining the marines, or any other branch?

Question

how should i tell my grandmother that i'm going to be a marine and leave for Parris Island in like 3 months. I've been in the DEP for quite sometime and everyone else in my family knows about my decision but her. I have problems telling her because she takes everything so dramatically, this is something i've wanted my whole life and it makes me mad that she would be so selfish as to get so upset about it rather than just support me. How would you, or how did you break it to people you knew that would take it the hardest?

Answer 1

Break it to her as if it is good news. "Guess what, grammy! My dream job just landed!"

Then, guilt her into it. "I just want to be happy! Would you deprive me of happiness?"

Then, explain that yes, you are indeed thinking rationally. Spout off some fancy-sounding statistics, if need be, about how death rates are dropping, and only x% of marines are KIA. Biblical quotes about serving leaders and punishing wicked are also lovely.

Then go back to guilting her. "I'm so glad that this is finally happening. I was worried that I wouldn't make the cut, but thank God they took me."

Don't even give her time to disapprove. "I'm so glad that you are supporting me. Your love and support means the world to me. Please pray for me!"

Answer 2

I had to do the same thing when I joined the Navy. Going into the military is a very personal decision. You are essentially volunteering to surrender your rights, privileges, and individuality for the benefit of others. It's not an easy life but it's a noble one. You came to this decision because you are old enough to know what's right. Family members may not agree with your choice but neither do they wish to believe any member of the family is not capable of making choices. Your grandmother may react the way she knows how to react and you can't change that any more than she can change your decision to enlist. The point is not to change anything but rather accept her who for who she is. You should be matter of fact about it and be prepared to explain your reasons for wanting to go. Then ask her if you have her support. If she says no, which I doubt I mean come on she's your grandmother, but if she does say no then that is something you'll have to accept. But carry the knowledge that you are the master of your destiny and be proud that you're doing what you're doing. Also know underneath it all she knows that too.

Answer 3

there's no longer something harder than a US Marine. tell them you want a project, you prefer to experience the satisfaction in easy terms a Marine gets to experience. you prefer to affix a brotherhood which will final a existence time. as quickly as a Marine continually a Marine. Marines are a family contributors, they watch each and each others backs, and that they are nearer than the different branch. The Marines are the suited branch of the U. S. military.

Answer 4

First I must say.. thanks for going FIRST CLASS... and now help me .. what does DEP mean?? Like I have stated on here already I served in Viet Nam, lost some of my best friends over there and also not to omit this little item.. If you track this thread .. you may of seen it about the guy that had shot thru the brain in Hue City.. I was 18 /.. w/ 11 months in country... so to let your grandmother know as she Sir has been on this planet a bit longer than you, maybe try going by to see her and check out her mood and just get the T.V. on and let the news come up and get the conversation going about being part of the "American Way" and doing your part .. first feel her out.. and then ask her what would she think is she saw you in your uniform a very PROUD MARINE..

Answer 5

Just tell her.

Play up the positive aspects of the career field you're entering. And, let her talk to your recruiter - they're trained in answering questions for civilians who don't really understand the military life.

My parents were startled/scared/upset when I told them. Honesty was the best policy in my family; I was honest with them, and they were honest in return. We all mulled it over, we all worked it out. After a 20 year career, my folks were button-bustin' proud to introduce me to all their old friends at their 50th wedding anniversary party (which coincided with my retirement from the military).

Hey! Every parent (or grandparent) stresses about possible threat to their young'uns. I had some choice words with my own son's recruiter ("of COURSE I'm concerned! There's WAR ON!!!), but it's okay. I am soo proud of my ScreamingEagle son. He is a young person of great patriotism and character.

I'm sure you are as well. And even if I am an Air Force troop, may I offer you a heartfelt 'Semper Fi'!

Answer 6

i sang that same exactly song about a month ago while i was depping in with the navy. i knew my parents wouldn't go down without a fight. sit her down and tell her that it's something that you have a real passion for. sure she might flip out, but just step back and let it sink in. let her realize what you've just commited yourself to. she loves you and will eventually come around and will consent. when you return from training, everyone'll see what the corps did to you and will be proud of you and what you've become.

you're pretty much joining what many people will argue is the branch that emphisises the most on honor and pride. there's nothing to be ashamed of as long as you hold the corps values close to you.

semper fi
serve your country with pride.

Answer 7

First, thanks for your willingness to step up to the plate and serve your country. Second, think about what kind of drama you're willing to put up with and what you're not. Tell her with your head held high. You're doing an HONORABLE thing... so act like it. If she gets dramatic, remind her it's not a decision you made for her, but one you've made for yourself. Ask for her support, and then let it go.

By the way, a GREAT website for you before you leave.. and for your parents (they will LOVE it!!) is marineparents.com Tell them to check out the message boards, to find out all kinds of information about boot camp and to get support and link up with other parents from guys in your Company. It's also a great resource for everything Marine Corps...

ooOOorah, and Semper Fi!

Answer 8

Here is how my husband told his family

He and I went to his parents house and he said "Mom, Pops we have some really really big news to tell you. We are getting married tomorrow." His mom looked at me and said "Are you pregnant, I mean you two already have one?" He said "Nope." She said "Then why get married right now you both are so young, you should wait a year or two." He said "Cause I'm leaving for Boot Camp in 2 days, but we really aren't getting married until Boot Leave." But she couldn't get over the fact that he told her we were getting married to understand that he had joined the Marine Corps.

Answer 9

It's nobody's business but yours. You don't have to tell her at all, actually. You're an adult now, and adults make their own decisions. She should understand that herself. Don't let anyone manipulate or scare you out of a dream, if that's really what you want to do.

Answer 10

Well if u think she'll react harshly no matter what u say, than just tell her the way u told others. Let her know you've always wanted this and that u know the pros and cons , etc.