Why did you join the Marine Corps as opposed to the Army or vice versa (no branch bashing, please)?

Question

Much respect to both branches. Of course neither is better than the other. Just some personal opinions. Different people have different wants. Basically, what did YOU want out of one service the other didn't offer? (benefits, family tradition, etc)

Answer 1

a big benefit of joining the army is that your job choice is guaranteed. i looked into the marine corp and they wouldn't say that.
the army also lets you enlist for less than four years if you choose to.
the army recruiters won't tell you up front, but you can also get a locked in duty assignment. that is where there first base you'll be stationed at.
the guy who said the air force knows how to roll in luxury wasn't kidding. i was lucky enough to eat in an air conditioned mess tent on a couple rare occasions. i don't think that looks quite as high speed as the army or usmc on the resume though.
cheers!

Answer 2

I chose the ARMY because I was only 5'2" 98lbs and basic was tough for me when I joined + I knew it would be (the road march and all the gear was difficult for me + the rest was fine); I knew that would be my greatest obstacle to overcome and did it. I was either too wimpy to try to push myself more and go marines b.c. of the swimming w/ gear on requirement. ARMY basic was a comfortable challenge for me and seemed realistic for my body type and abilities. I totally respect those strong marines and would never bash one. I've met many intelligent ones. and I'm not "stupid" either for having joined the army (actually attended gifted programs for most of my elem. and h.s. years). I think people are pretty smart for considering the military since the civilian workforce isn't as stable and retirement is up in the air for many; also, a degree w/ a useless liberal arts major really isn't the way to go. the military helped me more in life w/ benefits than "higher" education ever has (don't get me wrong, it's great when a "useful" major out of the arts is undertaken). ok, i'll stop rambling now.

Answer 3

I joined the Marine Corps because they have a sense of brotherhood that no other military branch has. They seem the most badass, and the boot camp is tougher. I want to be challenged. I leave for boot in 2 weeks.

Answer 4

I joined the Army because the Special Operations opportunities are better. They have the Rangers, SF, and Delta while the USMC has Recon but it is very small and less funded comparatively.

I got to start as Airborne Infantry, go to Ranger school and will attend SF selection next year. The USMC had nothing close to that career progression for me.

Answer 5

the army had the job i wanted. i was close to joining the Marines. my best friend joined the marines, we would have been together. we sign up on the same day. she wanted to leave as soon as i did but they are holding her til Jan. I'm glad i joined the Army. there is nothing wrong with the Marines I'm just glad about my decision. I'm in AIT now i finish with school in Apr

Answer 6

I joined the Army because the recruiters seemed to be more concerned with my well-being. I know now, of course, that there isn't a difference between the two in that respect.

Answer 7

Didn't serve in the USMC or Army, but I served 4 years in the Navy and just recently got out.

I joined because Navy blood runs through my veins. My dad, uncle, and grandfather served in the Navy. I've always loved being at sea and being on the flight deck.

Answer 8

"There isn't a difference between the two in that respect".. The problem is that the people in it. Only the the idiots one who make this a big deal but the good one will take this as No matter what service you from as long you do your job with honor courage and commitment and abide the millitary laws they are the one whose I respect. the thing is so many d1ck sucki*g ******** people in the millitary thats why No matter were you go you'll come accross this kind of situation.

Answer 9

i joined the army because its the only branch that would let me take my medication

Answer 10

I joined the army so I could fly ah-64 helocopters...If I did it again it would be air force...They always have good food and central heat and air!!!!They hardly ever sleep in the field..