8 answers
Davaun
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
1
Question
Updated
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What was your experience like in the military?
I'm interested in military service and would like to learn more!
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8 answers
Phil McKenzie
Operations Manager
5
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Phil’s Answer
This was probably the most rewarding experience I have had. I was in for ten years as an Army Signal Officer. Now that I am a civilian, I sometimes sit back and wish I never got out after ten years. You build some great relationships and a comradery that you will never find outside the military unless you surround yourself with prior military. The opportunities it gives you are pretty incredible, especially if you get into a field you are interested in. And when you do get out, it makes you a better person. I think that I have been so successful because I was in the military
James Hanzel
Corrections and Security
236
Answers
Cape Coral, Florida
Updated
James’s Answer
I can speak for my firsthand experience while serving in the Marine Corps. I have had a mixed experience. It has been incredibly challenging and taxing. It has also been incredibly rewarding. I have been lucky enough to serve in two different continents, become a martial arts instructor, and earn my Associates Degree for free. There are tangible benefits to get from joining any service. On the other hand, something I would keep in mind is that when you raise your right hand. That is, it. Your decision is final. You cannot go back on your word. The mission comes before you, no matter what is going on at home. Best of luck with your decision and research.
David Mathis
Sales
6
Answers
Lincoln, California
Updated
David’s Answer
I had a great experience in the Air Force. I was able to travel, learn marketable skills, and how to manage not only strategic processes but people as well.
At the end of the day you get out what you put in, and the experience is what you make it. If you go in with a postive attitude with a willingness to grow yourself and the people around you then it can be a transformative experience.
Do it.
At the end of the day you get out what you put in, and the experience is what you make it. If you go in with a postive attitude with a willingness to grow yourself and the people around you then it can be a transformative experience.
Do it.
Robert Peters
Fleet Service Agent/ Driver
23
Answers
Kissimmee, Florida
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Davaun, I went in right out of high school so it was a little shock to the system at 17. It is a lot different than in 1978. I learned about discipline on a different level and structure. I was stationed in Germany for 3 years and traveled throughout Europe. I always understood that even though my career was not frontline I needed to be prepared to serve in a remote location. I hope this helps and that you understand what is needed to join either for a short term stint or a career.
Raymund Chick
Military & Intelligence
4
Answers
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Updated
Raymund’s Answer
Hey Davaun!
I just completed 20 years with the Air Force, and I applaud you for seeking out more information before joining. You'll find that everyone who serves will have a variety of experiences based on career paths and duty assignments. I will be upfront and say you'll have opportunities that can help set you up for success long-term (education, certifications, work experience, travel, etc.), but there will also be times that you'll need to sacrifice (time, personal desires, certain liberties, individuality, and certain freedoms). Some of these can be great and life-changing, while others can wear at you mentally and or physically.
If you do decide to join, I would highly encourage you to go in with a plan. Military service will take every last ounce that it can from you, so you need to ensure that you get what you want out of it as well (keeping in mind that ~80% of your future will be decided for you).
Here are some of the big PROs that I would highlight:
[1] Education - you'll be able to quickly earn an associate's degree (AAS) within the career field you end up in. [2] Discipline and Structure - If you're the kind of person that needs the nudge to do what needs to happen, you'll learn it. [3] Cultural Diversity - You'll meet folks from every walk of American (and even foreign) life, and will have the opportunity to make life-long friends that will end up becoming family. [4] You'll have the opportunity to get yourself financially established (whether this happens is completely dependent on you and your spending habits and discipline). [5] POSSIBLY Travel - This is not as prevalent as it used to be, so please do not use this as a principal reason to join. I've seen a lot of folks think joining would be their way to leave their hometown, only to end up being assigned one hour away.
Some CONs:
[1] You're going to be expected to uphold and adhere to some very strict rules and expectations. Some of these you'll be taught, but most you'll have to learn and figure out on your own. These include certain freedoms of speech and expression, punctuality, customs and courtesies, and quickly adapting and integrating into a different culture. [2] Long-hours - you get paid a salary rate, not by the hour. You'll have days where you're working 8, 10, 12, or even longer days as part of your standard day or extended (most normal days are ~10hrs), and sometimes you'll be working 7+ days straight without a day off. [3] You lose a good amount of your freedom to choose - This is one that most overlook and don't consider until it's too late. Where you get assigned, when you work, what you'll actually do for that work, when you can leave...so forth is decided for you. These have secondary and tertiary impacts that you'll want to consider as well. [4] Pay - This one can go both ways depending on if you go enlisted or officer. If you go enlisted, depending on how early you join and where you're at in life, your salary will not be commensurate with your civilian counterparts.
While the above is very general, my best advice is to talk to someone you know that is either currently in the military or a veteran and really get very personal about if this is a path that would align with your individual life goals.
Good luck!
I just completed 20 years with the Air Force, and I applaud you for seeking out more information before joining. You'll find that everyone who serves will have a variety of experiences based on career paths and duty assignments. I will be upfront and say you'll have opportunities that can help set you up for success long-term (education, certifications, work experience, travel, etc.), but there will also be times that you'll need to sacrifice (time, personal desires, certain liberties, individuality, and certain freedoms). Some of these can be great and life-changing, while others can wear at you mentally and or physically.
If you do decide to join, I would highly encourage you to go in with a plan. Military service will take every last ounce that it can from you, so you need to ensure that you get what you want out of it as well (keeping in mind that ~80% of your future will be decided for you).
Here are some of the big PROs that I would highlight:
[1] Education - you'll be able to quickly earn an associate's degree (AAS) within the career field you end up in. [2] Discipline and Structure - If you're the kind of person that needs the nudge to do what needs to happen, you'll learn it. [3] Cultural Diversity - You'll meet folks from every walk of American (and even foreign) life, and will have the opportunity to make life-long friends that will end up becoming family. [4] You'll have the opportunity to get yourself financially established (whether this happens is completely dependent on you and your spending habits and discipline). [5] POSSIBLY Travel - This is not as prevalent as it used to be, so please do not use this as a principal reason to join. I've seen a lot of folks think joining would be their way to leave their hometown, only to end up being assigned one hour away.
Some CONs:
[1] You're going to be expected to uphold and adhere to some very strict rules and expectations. Some of these you'll be taught, but most you'll have to learn and figure out on your own. These include certain freedoms of speech and expression, punctuality, customs and courtesies, and quickly adapting and integrating into a different culture. [2] Long-hours - you get paid a salary rate, not by the hour. You'll have days where you're working 8, 10, 12, or even longer days as part of your standard day or extended (most normal days are ~10hrs), and sometimes you'll be working 7+ days straight without a day off. [3] You lose a good amount of your freedom to choose - This is one that most overlook and don't consider until it's too late. Where you get assigned, when you work, what you'll actually do for that work, when you can leave...so forth is decided for you. These have secondary and tertiary impacts that you'll want to consider as well. [4] Pay - This one can go both ways depending on if you go enlisted or officer. If you go enlisted, depending on how early you join and where you're at in life, your salary will not be commensurate with your civilian counterparts.
While the above is very general, my best advice is to talk to someone you know that is either currently in the military or a veteran and really get very personal about if this is a path that would align with your individual life goals.
Good luck!
ANDI SANDEN
AZ2, US NAVY
47
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
ANDI’s Answer
Everyone's experience will vary greatly, but mine has been even more different than most.
I joined as a single mother at the age of 32.
I went to boot camp and then A-school and stayed there for almost a year while awaiting my security clearance.
I went to my first command, shore duty, where I was electrician on F/A-18s. I then had 2 babies while there before transferring to my first sea duty command.
I moved from Virginia to Florida, changed my job to aircraft maintenance logs and records, and immediately went out to sea for deployment.
I did a tour of the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf and loved every minute of it.
Once I returned I was limited duty due to surgery and sent to a P-8 squadron. Now I'm on humanitarian orders while caring for my mother in hospice and in the spring will return to full duty and go back out to sea.
During my 7 years in the Navy I have changed my financial stability and have a beautiful, thriving family of a husband, 3 children, and 1 dog.
I joined as a single mother at the age of 32.
I went to boot camp and then A-school and stayed there for almost a year while awaiting my security clearance.
I went to my first command, shore duty, where I was electrician on F/A-18s. I then had 2 babies while there before transferring to my first sea duty command.
I moved from Virginia to Florida, changed my job to aircraft maintenance logs and records, and immediately went out to sea for deployment.
I did a tour of the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf and loved every minute of it.
Once I returned I was limited duty due to surgery and sent to a P-8 squadron. Now I'm on humanitarian orders while caring for my mother in hospice and in the spring will return to full duty and go back out to sea.
During my 7 years in the Navy I have changed my financial stability and have a beautiful, thriving family of a husband, 3 children, and 1 dog.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3643
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Davaun,
Absolutely, I'm more than willing to share the military journey with you. Here are some essential elements of time you spend in service:
Joining Up and Basic Training
Upon finishing high school, you may decide to join the military. The enlistment procedure encompasses a health check, a background investigation, and an interview to assess your fitness for the military. Following this, you would embark on an intense 8-week basic training program. This is aimed at equipping one with the core skills and principles required to be an effective military member.
Specific Military Role (MOS)
Post basic training, you are allocated to Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) - a dedicated role within the military that gives you specialized training. An example would be an MOS in communications, where there is training in the installation and upkeep of communication systems, including radio and satellite equipment.
Tours of Duty
Throughout your military career, you be deployed several times to different regions globally. These deployments were often to support military operations or respond to humanitarian emergencies. Despite the challenges, these deployments are among the most gratifying experiences of service, providing the chance to collaborate with diverse individuals and contribute to a larger cause.
Leadership Roles
During your military career, you will have numerous opportunities to take on leadership roles. These roles demand you shoulder extra responsibilities and make crucial decisions impacting those under your command. The leadership abilities honed during your service will be priceless in your post-military career.
Fellowship
One of the most unforgettable aspects of service is the fellowship shared with comrades. The bonds formed during your time in service are remarkably strong, you can stand by each other through thick and thin. Keep in touch with many of the people you serve with.
In summary, your time in the military will be extremely rewarding and influential. It instills in you vital skills like leadership, discipline, and teamwork, it offers you the chance to serve your nation and make a meaningful difference in the world. If you're contemplating joining the military, I would wholeheartedly endorse it as a worthwhile and fulfilling experience.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Absolutely, I'm more than willing to share the military journey with you. Here are some essential elements of time you spend in service:
Joining Up and Basic Training
Upon finishing high school, you may decide to join the military. The enlistment procedure encompasses a health check, a background investigation, and an interview to assess your fitness for the military. Following this, you would embark on an intense 8-week basic training program. This is aimed at equipping one with the core skills and principles required to be an effective military member.
Specific Military Role (MOS)
Post basic training, you are allocated to Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) - a dedicated role within the military that gives you specialized training. An example would be an MOS in communications, where there is training in the installation and upkeep of communication systems, including radio and satellite equipment.
Tours of Duty
Throughout your military career, you be deployed several times to different regions globally. These deployments were often to support military operations or respond to humanitarian emergencies. Despite the challenges, these deployments are among the most gratifying experiences of service, providing the chance to collaborate with diverse individuals and contribute to a larger cause.
Leadership Roles
During your military career, you will have numerous opportunities to take on leadership roles. These roles demand you shoulder extra responsibilities and make crucial decisions impacting those under your command. The leadership abilities honed during your service will be priceless in your post-military career.
Fellowship
One of the most unforgettable aspects of service is the fellowship shared with comrades. The bonds formed during your time in service are remarkably strong, you can stand by each other through thick and thin. Keep in touch with many of the people you serve with.
In summary, your time in the military will be extremely rewarding and influential. It instills in you vital skills like leadership, discipline, and teamwork, it offers you the chance to serve your nation and make a meaningful difference in the world. If you're contemplating joining the military, I would wholeheartedly endorse it as a worthwhile and fulfilling experience.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Benjamin Floyd
RF Engineer
1
Answer
Cheyenne, Wyoming
Updated
Benjamin’s Answer
I was raised around the Military my Dad was a US Navy Officer and I decided that I wanted to join for two primary reasons.
I wanted to see the world and experience what my dad did.
I wanted to get some assistance to be able to go to College after I got out of the NAVY
I learned a lot while I was in, I learned how to work as a team. I learned discipline which I needed a lot coming out of High School. My military service has helped me through my career, because the Military is a large group of brothers and sisters that support each other no matter where we are all at. A veteran help me get into the wireless industry right out of College.
There are many days I miss being in the NAVY and I wish that I had stayed in, as I really loved sailing and serving with a lot of great people.
I wanted to see the world and experience what my dad did.
I wanted to get some assistance to be able to go to College after I got out of the NAVY
I learned a lot while I was in, I learned how to work as a team. I learned discipline which I needed a lot coming out of High School. My military service has helped me through my career, because the Military is a large group of brothers and sisters that support each other no matter where we are all at. A veteran help me get into the wireless industry right out of College.
There are many days I miss being in the NAVY and I wish that I had stayed in, as I really loved sailing and serving with a lot of great people.