My roommate is joining the service, what should I do?

Question

He is 27 years old, certainly not past his prime for joining up, but not young either.

His financial debt and concerns are a big reason for doing so. He has student loans and some credit debt that isn't cheap but not unbearable either. We both work the same job which isn't the greatest and this is another reason he is leaving.

Overall he seems guardedly excited about the opportunity. I'm aware of all the good in terms of serving your country and the options military service provides for people coming off their duty.....but I'd be lying if I didn't say I'm a little concerned about it, especially in a time of war.

What can I offer him as a roommate and friend besides support? He is getting ready to sign paperwork for all of this on Saturday. Maybe you've dealt with this before, or have a better understanding of how to best handle this, or are serving or have served the country before, and can offer advice. Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

I see a lot of people saying that finances are a terrible reason to enlist. I see it the opposite way because these people can get their finances straight while they are in. It shouldnt be the only reason they join but how is it anyone elses business. I look at it as at least they are serving their country while they correct their mistakes rather than go on welfare ar something along those lines. At least he's trying. Also I understand you are trying to be a concerned friend but how would he feel about your post about his situation and choices. You may have good intentions but it's not your decision. Aside from these factors just be his friend and dont be so judgemental behind his back. He is obviously old enough to know something needs fixed and is taking steps to do so.

Answer 2

There are many reasons for joining the military, but I don't see any you've listed that are the right ones. A person joins to serve, or for the challenge (my reason for enlisting in the Marines), or because of patriotism. Not because they have too many bills. Once you sign, you're not gonna get out of it. Enlisting was the best thing I ever did! My wife would say it's marrying her, but... If he is that excited about it, there may be non-tangible reasons. Ask him about the real reasons, those one you can't touch.

Answer 3

Re Hails: i think of the army, what with hundreds of squaddies, Marines, Sailors and Airmen loss of existence, have executed enormously lots for the civilians! i think of his room mate did something respectable and honorable along with her existence and so which you will assert disgrace on her and disgrace on the army is an insult to all the adult males and ladies preserving you secure! I ought to assert "disgrace on you!" As to the unique poster, the lease should not be valid if the two your names have been on it. this is like an different poster pronounced, you are able to no longer have one 0.5 of the contract be valid whilst the different nonetheless holds. look into having it declared null and void, and initiate finding for a studio of your individual (so this would not ensue to you back. i myself have had undesirable stories with roommates, so I stay on my own now). If no longer, purely positioned up an advert on Craigslist inquiring for a room mate. i'm beneficial you will get one proper away. regardless of what you do, good success!

Answer 4

if his only reasons for joining are financial tell him he needs to realize the extreme amount of responsibility that anyone haves in the service regardless of enlisted/officer pay grade. and i've never heard anyone say they honestly couldn't make more in the civilian sector except kids who joined in after working for mcdonalds. if he's that set on it be supportive and tell him to talk to someone other than just a recruiter first good luck lcpl usmc

Answer 5

Take him out for a nice dinner maybe? Be supportive. Hang out. I did all my paperwork and am waiting to sign my contract and leave and I haven't had more than 2 friends come to visit before I leave.

Answer 6

ask him if he has a guaranteed school of some kind out of basic training if not to get one so that he has a designated job and that could help keep him out of combat the sevices are hurting for enlistees so tell him to get everything he can and in writing if his recruiter hems and haws he is bsing your friend also tell him to enlist in the air force asthey see the least amount of combat duty and their chow halls are also the best no i was not in the air force i was in the navy Go Navy

Answer 7

Throw a going away party,one he'll never forget and maybe he can return the favor when you sign up!

Answer 8

You can enlist with him on the buddy program.

Answer 9

just be a friend and support his decision, he'll be alright

Answer 10

Shake his hand and tell him how proud of him you are.