Join the Military?

[g++]

So Im going to be finishing up my computer science degree in a year and am thinking once Im done that this will probarbly be my last chance to do anything interesting like joining the military.

I have a good desk job and with the addition of the degree(my second) I could probarbly get an even better desk job once thats over but I have been thinking seriously about joining the military once the degree is finished just for the adventure/life experience of it.

I will be 27(old) by the time im done this extra degree. What do you guys think? Im in reasonable shape not fat by any stretch, I do smoke so I would have to fix that. Let me know I know theres alot of military people here. No debts and as a recent development no ties to anyone except my nuclear family and friends.

The recruiter told me I probarbly could pick a MOS that would make my getting my ass shot off highly unlikely with a CS degree but I am not sure I want to do that so the poll has a few options.

[Trouble]

You'll most likely enter at E-4 Specialist if you go in with a degree (assuming you're not going OCS) instead of a private, if that influences your decision.

I think it would be a good idea. I regret not giving it a shot so I'm biased though.

[Stunseed]

Thought you had to be under 26 to enlist these days? Maybe the removed that when the war went full-scale.

[Daniel]

It all depends on what you want to do with your life. Seriously. It's a good opportunity for anybody. You'll learned alot and become a better person. However, it's something that you have to want.

I couldn't imagine my life if I hadn't joined the military. Sure, I didn' thave a lot of other good options but it's something I always wanted to do. Even now, 8 years later, 2 months left on my contract I'm thinking about reupping simply because I'll miss it too much and always wonder what else I could have done.

That's the crux of the issue. It sounds like it's something you want to do with your life and if so, I'd reccomend it. Contrary to popular belief, Joining the military isn't tantamount to killing your future or your career. In fact, it can put you in positions you never really dreamed imaginable if you take the time to make the most o fit.

A couple pieces of advice:

Don't listen to your recruiter: Do you own research. Ask around, get multiple opinions. The guy may not be an outright liar, but chances are he doesn't know you, or really care about what you want. So, you'll have to figure out what's best for you on your own. This is a great lesson for the military. If you don't do it, things may work out well but don't count on it.

Do something you'll enjoy. It'll all converge together in the long run (especially if you're an officer).

Don't join the regular infantry. Seriously. The infantry blows. If you're going to do combat arms, do it right and do recon.

[g++]

26 to join the airforce or join the army as an incumbant commissioned officer. You can join as a specialist up to the age of 32.

[Bokertal]

The recruiter told me I probarbly could pick a MOS that would make my getting my ass shot off highly unlikely with a CS degree but I am not sure I want to do that so the poll has a few options.


I'm a Navy combat vet. Spent a year over in the Middle East doing security work. Got lots of buddies in all the services.

First thing - ALL soldiers are riflemen first. I don't care what your MOS is, even if you end up never "going outside the wire", your ass is still going to be at risk. Make no mistake about this. You could very easily end up workin in a FOB, "Forward Operating Base", and take mortar, rpg and small arms fire daily.

If you like I will PM you all sorts of info, I was recently in negotiations with Army to return to active duty...yes I was Navy but I want to go "back down range" and the Navy couldn't guarantee it so I talked to the Army.

BTW I'm 37 don't worry about your age, just be in shape before you get there.

Edit: there is an awesome Forum at Military.com, sign up and check it out under the "joining the miltary" heading and click message boards.

[Daniel]

I regret not giving it a shot so I'm biased though.

This is the rub.

Will you regret not doing it?

It doesn't really matter if you have 30 or 27 years of experience when you retire. It sure as fuck matters if you have 0 or 3 years in the military if it's something that is important to you.

[Allereli]

Ten or fifteen years ago I would say go for it, it would be a great adventure. It's something I considered for myself after high school.

Now I really think you should believe that what we're doing militarily in the world is right and that you believe you can add to the effort. Don't do it for the experience, do it because you believe in it, because when you're being shot at--no matter what job you get, today there's a high probability of it--that's how you're going to survive.

[Stunseed]

Sweet.

< A couple pieces of advice:

Don't listen to your recruiter: Do you own research. Ask around, get multiple opinions. >

True story. A 19 year old kid who works where I do told me his recruiter informed him as an E-2 out of boot camp he would make 42k a year. MO? Shopkeep. AZ's make 42k a year lolz. What a moron.

[Daniel]

I went to basic with a guy whose recruiter told him that the best way to be a chaplain assistant was to sign up as a scout.

[Sean of the Thread]

I'd suggest OCS personally especially with your multiple degrees.

You don't really want to grunt it unless you want that experience... and it's a good in my opinion as long as your mentally and physically capable.

Get an intel job or even a fire control job in the navy. Check out all the bonuses and like Daniel said... don't believe a fucking word the recruiters say. Do your own research. Most if not all of us that have been through the process will tell you that.

[g++]

This is the rub.

Will you regret not doing it?

It doesn't really matter if you have 30 or 27 years of experience when you retire. It sure as fuck matters if you have 0 or 3 years in the military if it's something that is important to you.

Yeah thats exactly where I am at. I want to do it because I want to be able to say I did it and think it would be a good life experience. I just want to finish this degree first so Im not coming back 4 years later like what the fuck is a computer?

[Sean of the Thread]

I went to basic with a guy whose recruiter told him that the best way to be a chaplain assistant was to sign up as a scout.

I left Parris Island as an E-3 (4 years ROTC) and a damn fine rifleman (although I entered as a damned fine rifleman as well). That was about all the truth there was in what I was promised.

[g++]

I'd suggest OCS personally especially with your multiple degrees.

You don't really want to grunt it unless you want that experience... and it's a good in my opinion as long as your mentally and physically capable.

Get an intel job or even a fire control job in the navy. Check out all the bonuses and like Daniel said... don't believe a fucking word the recruiters say. Do your own research. Most if not all of us that have been through the process will tell you that.

I definately want to do army and because of my age OCS is not an option. I mean Im not taking the recruiters word as gospel or anything, but it doesnt really matter anyway because theres not much they can give me...college credit...help pay for college? I have like 200 credits and like you guys said even signing up for a MOS doesnt mean much when you can still just end up on patrol right?

[Bokertal]

and like you guys said even signing up for a MOS doesnt mean much when you can still just end up on patrol right?

This is going to sound harsh but it's a fact....

If you are truely freaking about the possiblity of ending up in harms way then forget it. Every warrior get scared but we do the job anyway and worry about it later.

[Stunseed]

MOS is a big part of whether or not you're in shit or shambles, accordingly. It's true if you're in a forward operation, rank/MOS means shit when fire comes in, etc...

I'd go for an MOS that is something you'd be comfortable with in a pressure situation, personally. I'm sure others have good input to keep you out of the sand, per ce.

[g++]

This is going to sound harsh but it's a fact....

If you are truely freaking about the possiblity of ending up in harms way then forget it. Every warrior get scared but we do the job anyway and worry about it later.

Oh Im not saying im hyperventilating about combat. Im saying what the recruiter says in my case doesnt really matter because he has nothing to offer me. I mean obviously Im afraid to get shot...would be pretty f'ing stupid to say I wasn't but not to the point where Id actively avoid dangerous assignments or anything like that.

[Gan]

I voted networking for your MOS (Join).

I had everything set up for trying for admission to Annapolis until I destroyed my left knee in high school. I really regret not having the opportunity to go through that kind experience.

Just make sure, as others have mentioned, that this is something you seriously want to do.

[Sean of the Thread]

What's your age G++?

[g++]

26, will be 27 by the time I finish my degree.

[Bokertal]

Oh Im not saying im hyperventilating about combat. Im saying what the recruiter says in my case doesnt really matter because he has nothing to offer me. I mean obviously Im afraid to get shot...would be pretty f'ing stupid to say I wasn't but not to the point where Id actively avoid dangerous assignments or anything like that.

The recruiter said he has nothing to offer you? WTF? The friggin recruiter has nothing to do with offering you anything. He just gets your paperwork together and takes you to MEPS, the detailer at MEPS is the one with the finger on manning levels. It is there that depending on your ASVAB scores and college credits that the MOS's you qualify for will be determined.

Read the forums over at Military.com it will get you squared away. What state are you in?

[g++]

Maryland

[Sean of the Thread]

I just read your public profile but you beat me to it.

IN MY honest advice if you want to do something and are capable goto USMC OCS and become a pilot. Preferably a Cobra pilot but any thing will work for your esteem and career and self enjoyment. Even if you're flying C-130's coast to coast you'll have that forever.

My best friend decided to goto college first and now rides an F-18.

Again I don't know you but the choices are there it's just up to you to decipher what's inside. Since it's already been placed on the table it will change you as a person as whole no matter what you decide.

You'll either regret it for the rest of your life or vice versa or both.

[Jack]

I signed up for infantry in the Marine Corps, and after boot camp ended up being sent to signals intelligence instead. I spent 8 years in, and it was an experience that I will never forget. I still miss it sometimes, but then I remember having to wake up at five in the morning and go run around the base with a hangover that would kill an elephant.... I never went to Iraq, but spent some time in Afghanistan.

The biggest thing for me was the people I met while I was in. My roommates while I was in Hawaii were a trip. One of them somehow managed to get out of work two or three days a week, with some BS excuse. "I volunteered for beach cleanup" or "I have a dental appointment", and somehow nobody would ever call him on it. Dude had some balls... The other one was obsessed with Porn.... He'd beg for us to leave the room and give him his "Ten minutes".

Anyway, I say join up. If you don't, in the back of your mind you'll always question yourself about whether you should have or not.

[Gelston]

So Im going to be finishing up my computer science degree in a year and am thinking once Im done that this will probarbly be my last chance to do anything interesting like joining the military.

I have a good desk job and with the addition of the degree(my second) I could probarbly get an even better desk job once thats over but I have been thinking seriously about joining the military once the degree is finished just for the adventure/life experience of it.

I will be 27(old) by the time im done this extra degree. What do you guys think? Im in reasonable shape not fat by any stretch, I do smoke so I would have to fix that. Let me know I know theres alot of military people here. No debts and as a recent development no ties to anyone except my nuclear family and friends.

The recruiter told me I probarbly could pick a MOS that would make my getting my ass shot off highly unlikely with a CS degree but I am not sure I want to do that so the poll has a few options.

I've been in the Marines for 6 years. I'm an 0311, Infantry Rifleman. I wouldn't trade the last 6 years for anything.

Its not for everyone though. In the infantry you don't get much time to do things other than train. You are either working up to a deployment or deployed. You miss weekends, you miss lots of sleep, and you eat shitty food. If you are married or have a fiance you are away from them alot and for long amounts of time. Its physically demanding and people get hurt all the time. There is a chance that you will be involved in some sort of training accident and be injured in some way, though most likely minor. Your back and legs will constantly be hurting from the weight you have to carry. It physically ages you a lot faster than normal jobs. Its a tough life, that not everyone can do.

If you can suck it all up, push past all that bullshit, then the infantry will be the thing to do. If you can't, or think something listed above would be too much of a bitch for you, go to something else.

[Sean of the Thread]

My last word on the subject.

Quantico. GO.

okay that was two words.

[Miss Ismurii]

I almost joined but I'm such a wuss, I wouldn't last.

Honestly, I would suggest joining, though.

[g++]

Well assuming I pass the physical(which I think I will) Im going to join when Im done school. Thanks for all the input guys and Ill prolly need some advice in a few months on the actual entry.

[Sean of the Thread]

Join the right branch!

USMC accepts OCS candidates up until age 28 I think. BE A PILOT LIVE THE LIFE. Or be a gunner on a Cobra. :)

[g++]

I think im more afraid of the marine core than I am of being shot. No offense to marines but I dont think its a culture I can survive in.

[Gelston]

I think im more afraid of the marine core than I am of being shot. No offense to marines but I dont think its a culture I can survive in.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

[Bokertal]

It's not just a job it's an adventure!

My buddy "Mac" and I somewhere in the Gulf, That's the Theodore Roosevelt in the background.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/roguewave1971/LifeLibertycopy.jpg

My most recent unit.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/roguewave1971/thepunishers.jpg

To reiterate what many have already said...I will never forget, I have no regrets, and made the best friends I will ever have in this life.

[Daniel]

Maryland


Come to DC gather. We can talk then.

[Gelston]

It's not just a job it's an adventure!

My buddy "Mac" and I somewhere in the Gulf, That's the Theodore Roosevelt in the background.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/roguewave1971/LifeLibertycopy.jpg

My most recent unit.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/roguewave1971/thepunishers.jpg

To reiterate what many have already said...I will never forget, I have no regrets, and made the best friends I will ever have in this life.

Where was that second one? Looked kind of like Pendleton area, especially with the fire.

[Daniel]

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Seriously. You guys are fairies.

[Gelston]

Seriously. You guys are fairies.

We are fucking BAMF motherfucker!

[Bokertal]

Where was that second one? Looked kind of like Pendleton area, especially with the fire.


Camp Roberts, San Miguel, California.

We set the fires with the M2s, had to stop training. Haha.

[Gelston]

Bah, we start fires all the time, and then we shoot through the fires.

[Sean of the Thread]

I think im more afraid of the marine core than I am of being shot. No offense to marines but I dont think its a culture I can survive in.

It's Corps btw and not core and there's nothing to be afraid of. Anyways going to OCS is a complete different experience than grunt life. Stop being a pussy and join the right branch.


Sorry Daniel... you know his paperwork would be just endlessly lost in the Army. Be one of the few and the proud mr. desk jockey.

[Bokertal]

Bah, we start fires all the time, and then we shoot through the fires.

Yeah well....we had already pissed off Range Control. LOL

[Gelston]

Range Control pisses me off everytime I'm the RSO of a range.

[Drevihyin]

Funny I havent heard the right branch mentioned yet.

[Sean of the Thread]

Uhm just a word of advice never ever match trap a line of firecrackers outside the range officer's shack after the line is clear for the day.

[Gelston]

Do you mean USAF? I wish I had joined the USAF sometimes, because it would be so much easier.

[Sean of the Thread]

Funny I havent heard the right branch mentioned yet.

Sounds like a personal problem.

[Sean of the Thread]

Do you mean USAF? I wish I had joined the USAF sometimes, because it would be so much easier.

All you can eat salad buffets and all. Their search and rescue boys must have fun tho... I'll give them that.

[Bokertal]

Funny I havent heard the right branch mentioned yet.

I'm confused your avatar is...

De Oppresso Liber - Army Special Forces

We been talkin about Army. Who you rootin for?

[Bokertal]

All you can eat salad buffets and all. Their search and rescue boys must have fun tho... I'll give them that.

Yeah and you get a medal for keeping the jacuzzi temperature just right.

[Bokertal]

:rofl:
Uhm just a word of advice never ever match trap a line of firecrackers outside the range officer's shack after the line is clear for the day.

[Drevihyin]

Same advice I gave my son....USAF. I never remember a time when I said gee-wiz I wished I would of joined the Navy, or shucks I could of worn one of them flashy Marine dress uniforms. Those events never happened, but I have several memories of saying damned why did I not join the Air Force. I base that opinion on how the Air Force treats their soldiers and the exceptional budget they have to boost their quality of life.


Drevihyin

[Sean of the Thread]

You are what you eat. :P

[Drevihyin]

I'm confused your avatar is...

De Oppresso Liber - Army Special Forces

We been talkin about Army. Who you rootin for?


Sure I wore one of those little green berets for alot longer than the majority of you were or have been in the service. Does this mean I would advise someone to join the Army as an 11B? No I would not, its not meant for everyone so lets not pretend that it is.


Drevihyin

[Daniel]

Quality life has nothing on quality of service.

That's not to say that USAF are not quality service, but I can't imagine doing anything that is not combat related.

[Durgrimst]

If you are going to do it, you just need to know what your getting into, and give it your all. The military only sucks if you think it will be like the movies, or some book you read and you spend the entire time being bitter about how it really is. I knew what to expect, and I enjoy my job, and I am Marine Infantry.

[Gelston]

Truely, I wouldn't want to go to Iraq, afghanistan, or anywhere else with any other service then the Marines. And this doesn't come from me ulling shit out of my ass to diss the Army or anyone else.

When I was in Iraq last, I was with the Army.

[Sean of the Thread]

Much respect to you desert people.

*The SEA huts at home get hot enough but I'm sure they don't exist in a desert... or do they seeing how cold it gets at night and you're really out all day more than likely?

[Bokertal]

Much respect to you desert people.

*The SEA huts at home get hot enough but I'm sure they don't exist in a desert... or do they seeing how cold it gets at night and you're really out all day more than likely?

No tin roofed tents anymore...There are still some tent cities but most have air conditioning.

[Durgrimst]

They do have good chow though.

[Gelston]

Nope, no SEA huts. You either had a structure, a trailer, or a GP Tent.

[Sean of the Thread]

I'm getting old. :/

[Gelston]

I don't think they build SEA Huts anymore, simply because you can make a GP Tent faster and make it pretty damn nice, and then it also tears down a lot faster.

[Sean of the Thread]

To be nostalgic but it has been 13 yAAAaaars for me ( had to get my pirate day in somewhere)

[Durgrimst]

I don't know where you all are getting sent to in Iraq, but I am on trip #3 right now, and I have always like in Iraqi buildings/houses in the city. We are only in "tent cities" during transit, then we head out to our FOB's and COP's. They are nice though, sturdy, easy to AC/Heat, just need rat traps and insulation foam and your in buisness.

[Gelston]

Everywhere is different. Tent cities are usually only temporary, but in certain areas so many people are moving through that they tents are always full. Trailers are very popular in the large FOBs, but preexisting structures are generally the norm else where.

[TheLastShamurai]

my opinion, if you haven't already joined, would be to go Military Intelligence.

cryptologic linguist or something. something that needs a top secret clearance (assuming you can get it).

if you have a fucked up sense of humor and don't mind getting shot at, go psi-ops. nothing beats driving around iraq calling insurgents cock-suckers over a megaphone in farsi. but you will get shot at and you will have to go through jump school.

also, they do offer college loan repayment, if you have them. not sure how that works though.

but, besides the good/bad memories and the "i did thats," the best thing you can leave the Army with is a security clearance. so i would go for a job with such.

also, if you get to meps and they do not have what you want, say thanks and leave. you can always come back to meps, and eventually they will have what you want.

[g++]

The recruiter mentioned crypto lingwhatever as a possible for me but I dont know any foreign languages and dont really understand what exactly it is they do so I was a bit put off on the whole thing.

Daniel I work full time and take classes full time, with projects that means im strapped to a computer just about every waking minute of my life, but If I do get a trip to DC in ill PM you.

Wow I didnt check the poll till now, apparently suicide is also a good choice.

[Durgrimst]

To become a crypto linguist you don't have to know any languages. In fact the test you take to see if you qualify is not even a real language, it just tests your ability to LEARN languages. I would say go that route or counter intel (in the Marines it is HET). Nothing will set you up for a sweet job like that.

[TheLastShamurai]

actually at our last safety class, the statistics show that E-4s had the highest suicide rate for rank, 11b (infantry) had the highest suicide rate for MOS, and Ft. Hood had the highest suicide rate for a post.

so if you're an E-4 infantyman at Ft. Hood, chances are very high that you're going to kill yourself.

[TheLastShamurai]

To become a crypto linguist you don't have to know any languages. In fact the test you take to see if you qualify is not even a real language, it just tests your ability to LEARN languages. I would say go that route or counter intel (in the Marines it is HET). Nothing will set you up for a sweet job like that.

i've taken on of those tests. they aren't too hard depending on the language the fake language is imitating.

mine was imitating spanish, so it wasn't that hard. although you have to do mad cross referencing between the information pages that come with the test, so it is kind of a pain in the ass.

[sst]

Since your already in Maryland and have the education look into getting a job with the 902nd on Ft Meade... You can deploy as a civilian if you want to, you'll make a whole lot more money than if you were in the army, and your computer skills would be put to use instead of just sitting in a S-6 shop running cat 5 cables when the TOC needs to be set up.

[sst]

goto USAjobs.gov and look up "0132" it's intelligence specialist

[Jack]

As a linguist, you get to go to school in Monterey, CA. Depending on the language, you can be in school for anywhere from six months, to two years. Your recruiter probably doesn't know shit about the actual job, which is why he wasn't able to explain it. Basicly you'd be listening in on enemy communications, determining what they are saying, who they are, where they are, and then deciding whether there is actionable intelligence coming from the conversation, or not. From there you determine whether you want them to keep talking, or jam their comms, or blow them the hell up... It's hard to go into details and stay unclassified, but that's the basics of it. You will also end up with a Top Secret, SCI clearence, which can land you all sorts of contractor jobs when you get out.

[sst]

If you're going to go into commo, navy is the place to be.

[Sean of the Thread]

Don't make me go all Good Will Hunting HOW DO YOU LIKE DEM APPPPLES AAAHHHH on you whoever brought up the desk jockey suggestion.

[Stanley Burrell]

You should do what it is... That you're going to do. Although, to be honest, if you formed your decision on whether or not to join The Marines; based solely upon the results of vBulletin MMORPG poll, it would be the most random thing ever. I mean, shit, yeah: You know what? Go with this poll, be sporadic.

I'm so fed up with people who join the armed forces in a traditional manner -- When people ask you why you joined the Marines; and you tell them, "I did so based upon the results of an Internet vBulletin poll" they'll know you're the baddest motherfucker alive.

Out of prison/13th grade/Religion/Insecurities/Fitness/Discipline/Job opportunities ... Fuck you!: Mr. g++ defies reason. That's what you tell them.

.

Yeah, I realize you listed some conventional often-talked about reasons, but this should be your ultimate decision maker. Because, you'll die, someday; whether it be in the services or in your golden years, however, you need to do some random shit to balance out all the boring linearity this mundane life provides.

I say this because I know you.

[Gelston]

I joined the Marines based upon that being the first recruiter I saw in my High School when I decided to join.

[Bokertal]

GAH....I wasnt going to say this.

Why the hell are you asking for advice here? Go to military.com or many other military sites that have forums where you can benifit from the experiences of hundreds/thousands of those serving right now. Please don't take the advice of a few RPG junkies like myself. DO THE RESEARCH.

[Sean of the Thread]

He was probably asking because he knows several to many of us have served and wanted the opinion of those closest to him before moving on to the next step (military.com).


Be prepared tho. For every even keeled one of us there are quite a few seanydigital type fuck ups that you're gonna have to deal with.

[Bokertal]

He was probably asking because he knows several to many of us have served and wanted the opinion of those closest to him before moving on to the next step (military.com).


Be prepared tho. For every even keeled one of us there are quite a few seanydigital type fuck ups that you're gonna have to deal with.

Roger That.

[Doughboy]

actually at our last safety class, the statistics show that E-4s had the highest suicide rate for rank, 11b (infantry) had the highest suicide rate for MOS, and Ft. Hood had the highest suicide rate for a post.

so if you're an E-4 infantyman at Ft. Hood, chances are very high that you're going to kill yourself.

Ft. Hood is a shithole. I spent a year too many on that place. We did get tons of shit to blow up though. Range control only stopped us when we had big fires or cows downrange. Deer, no problem. Light the fuckers up.

OP: If you're really questioning yourself about enlisting then it's probably not for you in all honesty. It's one of those things that you either know you're going to to or you don't do it. Btw, no need to be afraid of Corps people, their all pansies on the inside :D.

[Gelston]

Fort Hood is equal to our Camp Lejeune I suppose?

[Sean of the Thread]

I had fun at Lejeune. I spent most of my time at Cherry Point.

[Gelston]

If you like tattoo parlors, strip clubs, bars, and liquor stores, I guess Lejeune is the place for you.

I plan on staying in Pendleton for the remainder of my enlistment.

[Doughboy]

If you like tattoo parlors, strip clubs, bars, and liquor stores, I guess Lejeune is the place for you.

I plan on staying in Pendleton for the remainder of my enlistment.

Sounds just like Ft. Hood. Ton's of Korean bars/pool halls. The City of Killeen outside of Hood is a fucking dump. There was one kick ass Mexican place on Rancier though. Taquiera No. 7. Fucking pwn. Carne Guisada and an Horchata made for a stellar lunch or dinner.

[TheEschaton]

If you like tattoo parlors, strip clubs, bars, and liquor stores, I guess Lejeune is the place for you.

I plan on staying in Pendleton for the remainder of my enlistment.


Wait, who doesn't like these things?

[Sean of the Thread]

Not to mention Pennyton Marines are pussies. 29 palms up your ass.

Try having 29 sand fleas up your ass.

[Sean of the Thread]

Kidding

Semper Fi

[Gelston]

I went to boot at Parris. I just like Pendleton way better then anything on the East Coast. On weekends I can go to LA, San Diego, or Vegas, without going out of bounds.

Mexico is off limits now. :(

Only thing I hate is hiking these fucking mountains.

[Sean of the Thread]

East coast sucks. The groupies are pale too.

[AnticorRifling]

So Im going to be finishing up my computer science degree in a year and am thinking once Im done that this will probarbly be my last chance to do anything interesting like joining the military.

I have a good desk job and with the addition of the degree(my second) I could probarbly get an even better desk job once thats over but I have been thinking seriously about joining the military once the degree is finished just for the adventure/life experience of it.

I will be 27(old) by the time im done this extra degree. What do you guys think? Im in reasonable shape not fat by any stretch, I do smoke so I would have to fix that. Let me know I know theres alot of military people here. No debts and as a recent development no ties to anyone except my nuclear family and friends.

The recruiter told me I probarbly could pick a MOS that would make my getting my ass shot off highly unlikely with a CS degree but I am not sure I want to do that so the poll has a few options.

Join.

Don't go OCS. I still believe you can't truely lead until you've been lead. I hated boot butter bars and always will.

Go in as a non-NCO (again the be lead before you lead) pick up your NCO then go warrant and actually be respected.

If you decide to join my Marine Corps become an 0651 or 0656. Volunteer for everything. Don't be a pog ass desk mammal that never sees anything. You can have a technical MOS and still do the high speed low drag fun shit. I did and I loved every minute. You get one shot at life, live it. Anyone who tells you not to volunteer is probably a bitch. I volunteered for every single additional duty, training, assignment and I never had a regret (other than the whole falling down the ridge and ending my career thing but that had nothing to do with volunteering).

Had I not gotten hurt I would still be in, I was built for the Corps. If you're there for the right reasons, you understand why you're there, and you adapt accordingly, you will enjoy your time. If you bitch, are a bitch, or you're there because I R need teh free college or I don't want to go to jail for my weed/dui/domestic abuse I don't want you there. No one wants you there. You don't want to be there. So don't fucking go.

Boot camp was one of the best times of my life and I would go back in a second if I could. When you finish your tenure in the military you aren't going to like civilians. I still don't enjoy corporate America. Don't get me wrong I enjoy what I do and who I work with but there is something that isn't right about the civilian/corporate world.

Take zero advice from someone who hasn't served. They didn't live it, they don't know it. I could give you my opinions on working triage because I watche ER last night and that would be just as insightful.

(Unfortunatly) You have no obligation to serve your country and fellow citizen but should you decide to heed the call of selfless service no greater honor will be bestowed upon you during your existance on this plane. I belive this with all of my heart.

[Sean of the Thread]

Join.

Don't go OCS. I still believe you can't truely lead until you've been lead. I hated boot butter bars and always will.


Mustang ftw. My OCS advice wasn't about leading it was for the pilot route.



(Unfortunatly) You have no obligation to serve your country and fellow citizen but should you decide to heed the call of selfless service no greater honor will be bestowed upon you during your existance on this plane. I belive this with all of my heart.

^^^^^

Only the fuktard meatsticks regret it G++. I'd go back at a moments notice. My goal was E-7 (who doesn't want to be called Gunny for the rest of their life?) then college then OCS. Of course I fucked all that up but that's besides the point.

Set a goal and obtain it.

[Gelston]

My goal was E-5, which I got, and if I get Staff before I get out in a little under 3 more years, awesome.

[Sean of the Thread]

I hope you reach your goal man. That's what it's all about.

Actually I don't see how you can't hit Staff in 3 years unless you're a serious cluster fuck which I don't see from your posts. But like I said I don't know you.

[g++]

In response to all the why are you asking here. Well none of my friends in real life are military and there isnt a section on goarmy.com titled "Do you want to know if you think your too old too join the military? Click here" Since I knew alot of guys here were military I figured I would ask. Even army info boards and the other information sites and boards you guys are talking about are skewed because if you had a bad experience in the military your way less likely to be a regular poster on a board about the military and 90% of the information about the military is on military web sites. So to a certain extent I trust word of mouth on this issue more than informational sites.

Honestly I was probarbly going to do it either way I just wanted to see what some people who have done it thought to get some clean perspective and see if anyone had a compelling reason not too. Since its overwhelmingly positive it reinforces what I thought originally.

[Sean of the Thread]

Honestly I was probarbly going to do it either way I just wanted to see what some people who have done it thought to get some clean perspective and see if anyone had a compelling reason not too. Since its overwhelmingly positive it reinforces what I thought originally.

Marines.

[Gelston]

I will give you this. When I was in Tampa, Florida at Hooters there was a guy that had just enlisted in the Army. He was 38 or so.

He was telling me he was refused in 1991 for medical reasons, but when OIF started, they raised the enlistment ages. Now, physically, that may be different.

Though you sure as hell ain't old if you are in your 20s.

[Gelston]

Honestly I was probarbly going to do it either way I just wanted to see what some people who have done it thought to get some clean perspective and see if anyone had a compelling reason not too. Since its overwhelmingly positive it reinforces what I thought originally.

Of course. Everyone I talked to said go to college. And though it may have been "smarter" for me at the time, I didn't. You can take advice from everyone else, but when it all comes down to it, you are the one that has to live with the decisions you make, not them.

[Sean of the Thread]

I will give you this. When I was in Tampa, Florida at Hooters there was a guy that had just enlisted in the Army. He was 38 or so.

He was telling me he was refused in 1991 for medical reasons, but when OIF started, they raised the enlistment ages. Now, physically, that may be different.

Though you sure as hell ain't old if you are in your 20s.

Which Hooters?

[Gelston]

When you leave the main gate of McDill, you go straight own that road, then you take a left on some road and its on the left down said road.

[Sean of the Thread]

Oh shit hooters.

The original is across the bay over the Courtney Campbell causeway in Clearwater.. not that it's special was just wondering.

I tried to get to MacDill for the last airshow but the fucking traffic was absurd. Shitty area for communting but I guess a secure one for central command.

[Gelston]

I got lost in clearwater. It was thrilling. Some places out there in Tampa seem like they are almost out in the country, but there are still crap loads of cars everywhere. Liked the area though.

[Sean of the Thread]

Tampa is in Hillsborough county. Hillbillies (sorry pb but it is mostly rural). Clearwater = Pinellas county. Most densely populated urban county in the state. Easy to get lost if you don't know it.

Then again I get lost in Hillsborough so who's counting.

[Stanley Burrell]

Me: What made you decide to join the services?

Person: An online MMORPG-related message board.

Me: ::cower::

Edited to Add: I'm not shitting. The more unusual someone's rationale is for joining the armed forces, the more I perceive them as suddenly snapping (necks.) You gotta practice the crazy eyes. I think if someone told me they enlisted because ... they liked the shape of barracks, and other military architecture, I'd try very hard never to have a conversation with such a hypothetical person ever again.

[Daniel]

In response to all the why are you asking here. Well none of my friends in real life are military and there isnt a section on goarmy.com titled "Do you want to know if you think your too old too join the military? Click here" Since I knew alot of guys here were military I figured I would ask. Even army info boards and the other information sites and boards you guys are talking about are skewed because if you had a bad experience in the military your way less likely to be a regular poster on a board about the military and 90% of the information about the military is on military web sites. So to a certain extent I trust word of mouth on this issue more than informational sites.

Honestly I was probarbly going to do it either way I just wanted to see what some people who have done it thought to get some clean perspective and see if anyone had a compelling reason not too. Since its overwhelmingly positive it reinforces what I thought originally.


One of my soldiers in Iraq was 37. Don't worry about.

P.a. Holy shut ducks I'm drunk. I hope they let me on this plane.

[Gelston]

Me: What made you decide to join the services?

Person: An online MMORPG-related message board.

Me: ::cower::

Edited to Add: I'm not shitting. The more unusual someone's rationale is for joining the armed forces, the more I perceive them as suddenly snapping (necks.) You gotta practice the crazy eyes. I think if someone told me they enlisted because ... they liked the shape of barracks, and other military architecture, I'd try very hard never to have a conversation with such a hypothetical person ever again.

I like the shape of barracks and other military architecture.

[Doughboy]

One of my soldiers in Iraq was 37. Don't worry about.

P.a. Holy shut ducks I'm drunk. I hope they let me on this plane.

I went to basic with a guy that was 33. Last name was Smith. He was the biggest fucking moron in our platoon. You've always got a couple of those "guys" in your platoon in basic. We had that asshole and one other name Wilgus. That fucker looked like Ralphie from A Christmas Story.....

[Sean of the Thread]

I laughed out loud when you said he looked like Ralphie.

The Army is much larger and is easier to get into.. well used to be I dunno how low they've set the bar now days.. but we had our "Gomers" as well but they get weeded out pretty quickly.

Like I said not sure about the Army it's not my gig.

[AestheticDeath]

Any of you know much about the MEPs thing and after induction etc.. what health things you have to pass and how much work they are willing to do on you, IE filling a cavity or fixing a busted tooth etc..

One of the recruiters I talked to said more then likely they would not let me in until/unless I had my tooth fixed before going. But he wasn't sure.

I'd hate to go all the way to Dallas and get sent back for it.

[AestheticDeath]

Also is there a way to cheat on the entrance test?

IE, make low scores in one area to make sure they don't drop kick you into a area of training you don't want to be in?

I took a small practice test at the recruiting place and scored high enough they said I could get anything I wanted... but I don't want to choose something then get kicked over to something else later.

I mean I know you can get to the MEPs thing, and request a certain MOS, and that is supposedly guaranteed based on what the recruiters told me... they said they could reserve something for you based on the test. But what's to stop them from giving it to me for a year or so, then putting me in something they need/want more after that?

(Army recruiter by the way) Still haven't talked to any other services.

[Stanley Burrell]

I like the shape of barracks and other military architecture.

lol. How decent are you at doing a deadpan expression?

[Sean of the Thread]

Lol I do know that some idiot didn't put his pencil down in time on our ASVAB and they made us all take it over again.

[AestheticDeath]

Lol I do know that some idiot didn't put his pencil down in time on our ASVAB and they made us all take it over again.

everyone? cause one guy didnt put it down? wtf

[Gelston]

To answer your question about Dental, they din't even give us a dental exam when I was at MEPs. Unless they just glanced when we were talking to make sure they were there. You do get one in Boot Camp though, and they make whatever fixes they need.

I don't think 1 tooth will be a problem.

[AestheticDeath]

Really... So you are actually inducted and signed up before the dental.

They give the physical during MEPs though right?

And can you get kicked out of boot camp if they think they should? Beyond not being able to handle the work etc...

[Gelston]

Yes, they give you a full physical. The only thing I've seen people kicked out of boot camp for was popping on the urinalysis or for sucking hard.

[Sean of the Thread]

Make sure you can walk on your knees or MEPS will ... or at least they used to send you packing. Was hard for me since I had a shattered patella via baseball bat prior but I had to suck it up.

[Gelston]

Yeah, make sure you can do the duck walk too. They did all that walking BS like 6 hours after you been at MEPs, and if they don't like how you look when you do itm, instant fail and they send you away.

[AestheticDeath]

walk on knees and duck walk?... hmm k

[Sean of the Thread]

Lol we're serious.

[Gelston]

The duck walk checks for flat footedness I believe.

[Sean of the Thread]

http://www.ehow.com/how_2089987_.html

[Gelston]

This a real hidden camera video from a MEPs after they completed the duckwalk.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbKPgWIyErY

[AestheticDeath]

This a real hidden camera video from a MEPs after they completed the duckwalk.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbKPgWIyErY
I hate you...

[AestheticDeath]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_xEJwwuX6Y

[AestheticDeath]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gx8L_48cEck

[sst]

Also is there a way to cheat on the entrance test?

IE, make low scores in one area to make sure they don't drop kick you into a area of training you don't want to be in?
don't


I took a small practice test at the recruiting place and scored high enough they said I could get anything I wanted... but I don't want to choose something then get kicked over to something else later.

In the army you pick your MOS, as long as you're not a complete moron you'll have it when you are done with AIT. If you suck to hard you'll get T-spaced (think I got that right) to the needs of the army. Aside from that you're almost stuck with it unless you want to change...


I mean I know you can get to the MEPs thing, and request a certain MOS, and that is supposedly guaranteed based on what the recruiters told me... they said they could reserve something for you based on the test. But what's to stop them from giving it to me for a year or so, then putting me in something they need/want more after that?
As long as the MOS is not phased out you'll keep it. The only phase out I've had experience with is 96R's, they were given the option to change jobs or get out.