Looking to join the military? Let someone who's currently in it walk you through the decision.
I joined the Navy a little over 2 years ago. I am currently attached to a reserve unit, which means I drill about once a month and can go on with my everyday life at other times. Let's talk about what the military is (specifically U.S. Military), what the different branches do, and what to expect if you join.
Why Join the Military?
Most people join the military to either gain structure in their life, because they don't have any other options, or they have extreme pride in their country. Whatever your reason is, there are some common misconceptions that need to be broken down.
1. Low Pay
Alright, I have talked to many people who have been steered away from the military because they can make a lot more money in the civilian world, that may be true, but I would argue that the military also pays pretty well. An E1 just going into the military is going to make $1,566.93 per month. This works out to only about 18,000 a year. This is really low if you had to pay for rent, food, and insurance, but you don't. If you are on active duty, literally all of your expenses, minus a few here and there are completely covered. Which means that that 18K is yours to save, or spend. With that said, the military is severely underpaid considering what the job entails. Also with that said, a high ranking enlisted or officer is going to make 60K-150K a year.
2. I'll Just Get Yelled At
Well, you are going to get yelled at. Most of this is going to happen in boot camp, but after, experiences may vary. The military has the unique operational ability to incorporate profanity, cussing, and yelling all into perfectly acceptable and even beneficial working environments. Getting yelled at really depends on who is in charge of you. For me personally, the last time I was yelled at was initial training.
3. You Will Never Get Vacation
Every person in the military gets 30 days of accrued paid leave per yer, not counting federal holidays and weekends for certain commands. This is better than most civilian employers with everything considered. If you are worried about not seeing your family, you will likely be able to find time throughout the year to take leave. Only disclaimer here is that your command can deny leave on certain dates when you are needed. If you aren't specific on when you need to go home, then you will be able to get away.
Alright, we've broken down the misconceptions. Let's talk about which branch you want to join.
Different Branches
I am going to discuss the general duties of each, short of getting specific. I could talk about things I know nothing about all day, but the purpose of this post is to inform you, not mislead you.
Navy
HOOYAH NAVY! I'll always be partial to the Navy since, after all, I'm in it. The Navy has a wide array of jobs from loading missiles to intercepting intelligence. The Navy tends to be looked upon as the more nerdy branch. I would say only about half of the people currently in the Navy are on ships right now. Depending on what job you pick, you could never see a ship in your entire career. Of anything, the Navy has very versatile options for those who want to join. I covered Navy boot camp in another post here.
Marines
The Marines are the Marines. While I can throw some camradery and say MARINE stands for My Ass Rides on Navy Equipment, I won't do that. Oh, wait. Seriously though, Marines are likely the most respected branch as a whole. Marines tend to be on the front lines, and they're who we send to battle. They are highly trained warfighters, and they are the most elite in the world.
Air Force
Alright, more comradery coming your way Chair Force. The Air Force is the newest of all of the military branches, which means that Daddy U.S. spoils them with the new equipment. As you may have guessed, most everyone in the Air Force is going to be working near, on or around planes. You will be stationed on an Air Force base, and will always keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, or in a plane (Unlike the Navy and the Marines).
Army
The Army has a wide variety of jobs as well, but be prepared to be near the battle. Both the Army and the Marines are going to be who go into a war first. The Navy will provide support from the Oceans and be relatively distanced. Unless it's a naval battle. To be honest, there's not much more I can say about the army. It really just depends on what you are looking for.
Hopefully, that broke down each branch for you in a little bit of detail. Each branch is going to have different deployment and operational systems as well. If you are interested in specifics of each, then it's time to talk to a recruiter or someone directly involved. Quick side note, DO NOT BELIEVE A DAMN WORD A RECRUITER SAYS. If you can, check everything they say with someone actually in the service. Their job is to get you to join, not tell you the truth.
BENEFITS
Low(ish) pay and being deployed across the world, what's good about the military?
Amazing Insurance
If you are active, you and your family never have to worry about paying a dime for anything medical. Being a reservist myself, I can get amazing coverage for my family with unlimited kids for $210 a month and a $1000 a year max out of pocket. The insurance is amazing.
TUITION
Say goodbye to college loans. Through the GI Bill and Post 9/11 GI Bill, the military is going to pay for 4 years of college or more in whatever you want to study. You can take classes part-time while you're in, or go full-time when you're out.
Discounts
Most everywhere has a military discount. At some places it is only a few cents, but at others it can be hundreds to thousands. Many museums and attractions will also be completely free. Please don't abuse this. No one likes the guy who flaunts that he is in the military just to get free stuff.
Travel
If you want to travel the world for free, the military is going to take you there. The Navy is likely the best branch for travel but other branches will as well. Like right now, I'm sitting in a hotel at the beach thanks to the Navy.
Miscellaneous
I am forgetting the other benefits, so those of you reading this that are veterans or currently in, help me out.
Active/ Reserve
In active duty, you are going to go where the navy tells you. In reserve duty, you drill once a month and are a civilian the rest. You can still go on deployments if you choose. It really just depends on what you are looking for. If you want to join but still want your civilian life: Reserves. If you want to get away and have a full-time job: Active
Hopefully this post gave everyone a better look into the military, and may help you decide if you want to join. If you have any questions, post them in the comments. I will answer them to the best of my knowlege, or direct you to someone who can answer them better.