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If you want a sense of what the miltiary is about, take the time to visit a VA hospital and talk with some veterans. Better yet, go to Walter Reed or even a National cemetary such as Arlington. Volunteer for a Wounded Warrior project. You will quickly realize all gave some and some gave all and many joined for the same reason(s) you are considering. In my opinion, there is no higher calling of a profession. It's a very serious commitment, particularly in the world we live in today. Some veterans had no choice (drafted) and others voluntarily joined for many reasons including the "opportunities". All will tell you; the pay is low, the hours are long, some places and conditions are deplorable. I am sure you will have a completely different perspective after joining than you do today.

Having said that:
I served 23 years in the Air Force and proud of it. All branches have the same opporuntiies for a noable career and none are any better or worse than the other. It all depends on you, your interests, physical ability and goals. The Air Force gave me training (3 career fields), education (Bachelor of Science and 2 AAS) and travel far beyond my expectations. I had some real crappy assignments and deployments as well as some awesome ones. My first enlistment was 6 years as a security specialist (AF grunt) guarding nuclear missile sites, aircraft, personnel and bases. I carried several types of small arms on a daily basis including m16,m203, m60, m9, 38. I then retrained on my 2nd enlistement into my 2nd career field in Aircraft maintenance including KC-135, B-52g/h, B-1B and the beddown of the B-2B. My 3rd career was on the AF Honor Guard and peformed at many events including parades, ball games, retirements, promotions, change of command ceremonies, dignitary arrivals/departures and of course providing honors to our fallen hero's. I volunteered to be at every funeral whether active duty, retired or veteran. I respectfully carried the casket, played TAPS, cased the flag, 21 gun salute and also presented the flag to the next of kin. I can tell you, there is nothing more humbling or sobering than carrying a casket with the US Flag draped over the veteran who gave the ultimate sacrifice. I could probably write a novel about my experiences in the AF but there has been none greater than honoring veterans for their service.

When I joined the AF, I was looking for a job and a chance to do something with my life. During my career, my perspecitve about the world, politicans, religion and people in general changed. I would like to believe, I became a better citizen, patriot and hopefully gave a small payment back to those who served before me.

The military has changed dramatically over the years and even during my short career. Familiy and friends would always ask if I was going to make a career of it every time I reenlisted. I often replied, "I'm not sure yet'. I wouldn't recommend or advise against a military career to anyone. Its not for everyone though. I guess I did make a career of it because I'm now in the retired reserves. I advise young people interested in joining the military a few things. If you decide to join; talk to veterans about the various branches - not recruiters, pick the branch that fits your abilities and desires, look into commissioned officer training, check out the air national guard & reserves (many well kept secrets), try to pick the best job possible and make the best of all the education, training and travel opportunites. The only regret you may have is not taking advantage of them.

Best of luck on your decision!

Respectfully to all veterans and their families,

Master Sergeant, AF, Ret