Marines

[draftingmonkey]

The service is going to be what you make it, just like any occupation. Sometimes you have to look beyond the amount of money you make, live within your means

So right.  I my family had folks in every branch at one time, USA, USAF, USN and CG.  I was only Marine.  We've all talked over the years and it really is what you make it. Not easy at times but one of the most rewarding of professions and something you can always look back on with pride.  If you are willing to put out the extra effort, in the Corps, at least in my time, you had the chance for faster promotions.  I made E-4 in just short of 2 years and E-5 by the end of 3. And, as my fellows Marines have said there is and always will be a special pride involved.

Good luck with whatever path you choose to take.

[twodko]

Copy all that. The military like any job is what you make of it. The opportunities in all branches of the service are there for the taking. The more initiative you show the more things will come your way..........most are good, some are not. They amount of effort you put out is directly proportional to what comes your way and more options will be open to you. However, don't be the guy who volunteers for everything. When its time to burn the crappers you'll be the one they always come to! Needless to say, don't be a slacker, pull your own weight or the guys you serve with will beat your ass.
I'm former Navy and very proud of my service but I'll tell you this........when you earn the eagle, globe and anchor its an honor like no other.

Tom

[teamroth]

when you earn the eagle, globe and anchor its an honor like no other
Tom

Thanks Tom.
That was an incredible sentiment.
S/F
Thad

[Rolling_Thunder]

Agreed -  I have only been told this second hand from my friend but he said that after the crucible when you are given your EGA - that will be one of the rare times you, as a marine, will cry -   it will not be looked down upon by anyone - it is something that is earned in sweat and blood -   

[twodko]

Semper Fi teamroth.

Tom

[chargergirl]

My youngest boy, Sgt in the Army, used the VFW for his reception. He wasn't old enough to drink at his own wedding...however the idea that there is no other stronger than the bond of service is correct. There were men there that had lived through hell and were upset that he served on the first wave in Afghanistan and yet couldn't have a drink at his own wedding. I can't tell you where this happened but they made sure he had the BEST champagne money could buy. Years later I was called on the carpet for taking a personal call from the same son...life is tough when serving. I kept him from losing his mind...it cost me my job. I can always find another job. Get the best education you can and then serve...it is just as honorable...just please promise me that when the "kid" that has been there for a year tells you it's a live fire area...believe him...don't order him to cross cause it's a short cut...and you know!

[HITMAN 149]

HOOOOOO-RAAAAAAAA!!!
i went in with 3 of my buddy's at the end of the summer (had to have some fun first!! hehehe)
right after we graduated high school. i was in for 2 yrs.. got out early on a medical discharge. but still served honorably!! hahaha
i agree if your not going to college or have a good job lined up after high school... a stint in the service is a great idea!!!
i also AGREE about going in for something that you can use after u get out!!! not that there is anything wrong w/ being a "grunt".... but there aren't to many job openings out there for "grunts" in the civilian /private sector!!! lol
and YES>>>> START RUNNNNNNNING.... CARDIO IS KING IN THE MILITARY, AND ANY OTHER TYPE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY!!! LOL there was a huge muscle head college football kid in my room at the police academy, he could lift a VW but couldn't run half a block!!! ohhh the troopers killled him!! lol hahahaha
GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!

SEMPER FI!!!
LCPL USMC 89-91

[ACUDANUT]

 Hitman, How did you pass the Police Academy when you got Discharged on Active Duty on a Medical. ? 

[HITMAN 149]

hey bro...
i was discharged for a pre-existing condition... but nothing that would disqualify me for the police academy...
the police dept doesn't have the same medical policies as our government!! lol

[chargergirl]

Police dept. doesn't make you hump 80 lbs of equipment for 20 miles. Just got to be able to cimb, jump and get to donut shop in record time.

[HITMAN 149]

hahaha YUP!!!! mmmmmmm donuts!!! is there anyting they can't do!?!?!? hahaha