What would you do???

Ravin

You know, there's something to be said about the courage and selflessness of someone who joins in a time of war. Plenty of people would join in a time of peace, especially if they've convinced themselves that they'll never get sent anywhere or put in harm's way (regardless of the fact that war and combat are the military's job; that's the reason they exist). Those are the same people who, in a time of war, would piss their pants at the idea of joining during a time of war, and resent anyone with the courage to do so. You'll encounter that a lot; people don't like being shown up for being cowards, after all. In any case, if you're old enough to join the military you're also old enough to make your OWN decision. Realize that your girlfriend, mom, grandparents, and siblings might be opposed to you going in because they're worried about you being hurt, and that's an understandable worry. If they're opposed to you going in for political reasons, however, that's wrong, very wrong. Even in reading some of the answers you've already received for this question, it's evident just how misinformed people are about this war; you won't necessarily be sent to Iraq or Afghanistan, but the likelihood is definitely there; and even if you go, your chances of coming back unharmed are better than any other war we've been in for this long, EVER. The casualty count is quite low, regardless of how the media and war opponents spin it, and the quality of life over there--even though it's no cakewalk--is better than any other war we've been in, in terms of support.

Of course, it all depends on whether you choose to believe combat vets who have BEEN there, or silly civilians back home who are convinced they're wiser than those with the actual experience because of what their TV has told them. Which would you believe?

scott m

Do what you believe is best for you. The military has an excellent collage assistance program. I was in for 14 years & I'm still alive & kicking. I wish I had stayed in, I'd be retired with great bennifits.

gunplumber_462

Man's got to do what a man's got to do.

Jon

Family worries, that's what they do... Grow a pair and say whether you like it or not I'm going to make my own decisions.

And learn to use the Spell checker, that was painful reading all those errors

open4one

Consider a middle course. Join the Guard/Reserve, and take ROTC in college.

Too Old For Idol

You have to understand their concern. Having a son over in the war worries me to death every moment of the day. But, it was his decision to serve America. I did too for nearly 30 years and I did something you could do. I took college courses while in the service (they have fantastic opportunities to do so) and eventually achieved two degrees. Might be a tool for you to use to ease their concern somewhat. However, they will never lose all their concern and that just shows their love for you. You'll just have to make the decision. I will say the military is a great, great career and despite my concern I am so very proud of my son and his fellow heroes.

beach bum

It's your life but are you joining for the right reasons? Of just escaping from home? College will make a big difference in your life if you succeed, Depends on where your interests lie. 20 to 25 years in the military isn't a bad deal.

kolacat17

I think they ARE supporting you. I think they don't want to see you come home in a body bag. Why don't you go to college first and if you still want to join the military then do.

Sunnie H

You need to do what YOU feel is right. Its hard for your loved ones to see you off especially in a time like this. To be honest when I signed up NO ONE wanted me to leave.. I had to wait till my b-day to sign up because my mom wouldn't waiver me in. Everyone was against it but knew it was something I wanted and felt as if I needed to do and once I left they supported me 100%. And they are all proud of what I have done. And don't let ANYONE especially a girlfriend stand in your way. If she loves you she will be there when you get home. Good luck to you

Ambitious27

Look all that matters is that you do what you truly feel in your heart. If you do not do what you REALLY want to do in life no matter what people say then 5-10 years down the line you will regret it. I always wanted to join the military right out of high school and I didn't. I was then involved in a relationship and the guy did not want me to go so I didn't because I was young and dumb. The whole time I had it in the back of my mind to join so here I am I enlisted in June and will be leaving for basic in 3 weeks! I am happy and proud of myself. I've put a lot of thought into it and trust me you will hear negative comments such as the people that have posted on here. That is normal. If you believe in God and believe that all things in life are meant to be then you will be fine trust me. Anyone single person can wake up tomorrow and God forbid its their last day and they are gone. Regardless if your in Iraq or on the highway when its your time to go-----you will go. So I say do what you truly feel in your heart once again because only you can live your life for you and no one else. Take care and hope you make the right decision FOR YOU!!!

corgiesrule

Why do you want to go in the military? If you feel strongly about it, join up. When you get out, you will be eligible for VA help with college. Some people go to college first and let the military pay for it, then they are obligated to enter the military for a set period of time.

J-in-TX

Joining the military is good for you. Anyone that thinks you are gonna get killed is full of tree hugging hippy crap. I know people that have been in for 3 years and have not gone anywhere. I know people that volunteer themsleves to go back in country ASAP. Its a decision only you can make for yourself. If you go infantry of course you are gonna see combat, if you do other crap like supply or paperwork then no you are not gonna see combat, other jobs that are trades like wheeled vehicle mechanics are in the rear with the gear. So dont listen to these wussies that have no clue what they are talking about. My unit is supposed to be changing categories soon and be getting deployed to Afghanistan and Im hyped. Im ready to go. Whatever you do just make sure its what you want to do and no one else.

J S

Go for it. Join the NAVY. Best branch (right now) to join. I'm over 40 and if I could turn the hands of time back.. I would have jumped on that in a heart beat. Biggest mistake of my life.

druszka717

If you are truly dead set on joining the Army, go for it. What is your MOS? Dont get me wrong, getting a higher education is a good idea and it is something you can still get while in the Army. Just remember what is at stake for a soldier these days and that is is ultimately your decision. I wish you luck at whatever you choose to do.

snipe

If I knew it was the best thing for me, I would join up. Of course your loved ones aren't going to want you to go in these chaotic times. But you have to do what you believe is right. I admire your courage. I joined up right before 9/11 so I thought everything was cool, then the time came to put all the training to use. Upon my return, I re-enlisted for 3 more years. Keep in mind this was just before the war in Iraq, so I went there. I don't regret anything I did, it prepared me for so much. Just don't be one of those guys who doesn't think it will happen to them, anything is possible and you should expect to be deployed.

Mona Lisa

I had the same problem too...and I have been in for over 3 years now and some of my family and friends STILL give me garbage about it! But you just have to move past it and do what YOU want to do. It is YOUR life!
They should be supporting you. But once you sign those papers, well, thats it. The military has you now. And hopefully they will come around. So, just make sure you are joining for the right reasons.

And good luck!!!

Check out maybe Army Rotc, that's what my dad did and he was in for 20 years. I'm going to join NROTC next year, but you can also check out the Army reserve or National Guard. Good luck man

bigbiff_70

Well the back door way might be the Coast Guard. More likely to stay home but still receive Military benefits.

???

It must be an incredibly awful position you're in. I guess what you should ask yourself is why you want to join the army, If it is about thinking you can make a difference is any difference you can make compare with the possible damage you will be doing to your family and Friends. If it is about purely proving something to yourself is it worth the risk you will be putting yourself in. And finally do you think that you might feel differently once you are away from everything you know and are used to. Good luck with what ever decision you make.

My personal opinion is that Iraq is an illegal war that can only serve to fuel more conflict between different cultures and is being fought for reasons that are not Honorable.

Phoenix Princess of Darkness

It is absolutely idiotic to join the military right now. You will go to Iraq and you will face a high likelihood of death. Why in the hell would anyone join the military right now?

If you are okay with not living past 20, then go ahead and join the military. Otherwise, go to school.

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