People with actual military experience and families -Please?
543073
As a member of the US Army for over 18 years I can say that alot of what you hear is not true. While it is true that the military has the least benefits than any other Federal Government branch. When people are discharged from Active Duty they have a 6 month window to take care of any medical conditions that have occurred. \nNow the pay leaves something to be desired. You can't work in the military for the money, unless you are miserly and live on base or post and eat in the Mess Facilities.\n  Now that I have reached a higher rank, the money is better and the housing allowances are better. Separation pay is good, if you are married. \n  I have been wounded four times in combat wiTh the US Army and have fought a medical discharge twice for the last injury to my foot. \n  Now, I have known guys that take a discharge because they don't want to fight it. Some stay in and some go. But, God willing, I will stay for as long as I can.\nBut, there will always be people who feel the US Government cheated them, It may be true or it may not. But my advice I give to all that feel that they shouldn't be discharged, is hire an attorney. I did and finally after I reached my 18th year I was saved. I got my lawyer to argue my point and to delay a hearing until I reached my 18th year, where the Military cannot discharge me, if my injury was duty related.
712375
My husband is in the military.  We were engaged when he was in Germany and I was in Michigan.  We married when he returned and moved to Fort Jackson, SC.  The move was easy, the military moves you.  Just say good bye to friends and family and keep in touch with them.  Being deployed is a worry I have every day.  He already has been once.  It is probabley the hardest thing anyone goes through.  You just have to be ready, be supportive, be faithful, and be sensitive to your man.  Good Luck and God bless.
115191
Listen bud... I am an Army vet... \n\nFirst, do not listen to agenda driven, uber-liberal peaceniks\n\nSecond, the casualty rate in the Army has been as high in peace time as it has during the Guld War(s)\n\nThird, do not go in with a pre-chosen job or idea. Study for the ASVAB, see what you qualify for. Ask questions of current soldiers. Ask questions to your parents. Ask questions to your pastor or someone you trust. And ask questions of yourself. Then and only then if you feel the benefits outweigh the risks, then do it and choose the job that will also help prepare you for a career outside the Army. **By this I mean that an infantry man is prepared for what job when he gets out? Look to learn a job you like that means more on the outside as well. Not that I am knocking the infantry, but if you can do better, do better.**
867690
I'm sorry, but he's not.  My hubby is on cycle break, thank goodness.  However, I'm checking on this for you as we speak and I'll do an edit when I have your answer.\n\nEDIT:  I'm so happy to help in any way that I can.  Military life comes full circle for many of us.  We were the "young'uns", now, we're the "old folks".  Never be afraid to ask questions.  Military life is a life like none other and we ALL need support.\n\nI really am glad you asked a question and specifically pointed me out.  However, my info is pretty limited as of right now.  Ft. Sill is closed due to our weather conditions.  Hubby won't be able to check much until he goes back in.  Anyways, this is what we have:  19 January should stand as graduation date.  That would be 9 weeks BCT and 2 weeks exodus.  We do fill up fast here and I'm glad you worked it all out ahead of time.  Hubby is going to try to check on exact dates of exodus.  Is your son coming home??  What a great present I'm sure that would be for you.  I'm glad his letters are upbeat.  That's a good sign.  Most of the Drill's here are cool.  We love all of them in our unit.  They really want these guys to succeed.  The phone number to the unit I think your son is in is (580) 442-1304.  I'm sure you already have his number, but this is what I deducted from the info you've given.  Your best bet is to call them....they do need to answer your questions.  I know they don't like to be bothered by family members, but you have a lagit question and they can answer it.  Since hubby is in a different unit, it's hard to get exact info other than knowing everything is on schedule for what's posted and that's the same he has.\n\nGood luck and I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful.  If I do find anything else out, I'll be sure to post it on here.  Be sure to yell "HI" to me while you're in town!!  I can't even begin to tell you what an awesome experience graduation will be.  Enjoy!!\n\nEDIT2:  I wrote your e-mail addy down.  How did you find me??  I haven't answered any other questions of yours and you seem to know me so well.  Anyways, glad I can help and if I find anything else, you'll know about it.
229698
After having served in the Air Force, I'm kind of partial, but I know that in my 4 years of being in, I was deployed only one time and that was one I volunteered for.  If you are trying to raise a family, the AF is the way to go.  With the Navy, you are out to sea too much of the year.  With the Army, you are more deployable than the AF.  With the Marines, if they wanted you to have a wife and family, they would have issued it to you in boot camp.
880084
I assume that he's there for basic training.  I went to basic at Ft. Sill OK about 3 years ago now and I can tell you this.  SEND MANY MANY MANY LETTERS!!!!  My mom sent me at least a card or a note or something every single day.  I'm sure some other people that read this will make their comments about that, but I will tell you what, it is very very motivating and comforting to know that your family is thinking about you and cares for you.  Mail call was probably my favorite part of the day every single day.  You should hear from him soon.  maybe not by phone for awhile, but more than likely at least a letter with his address.  As I recall we didn't get phone privliges until about our 2nd or 3rd week.  He will also spend a few days at a reception battalion before he acctually starts basic.  he might get a few minutes to talk while there.  his phone calls will more than likely be very very short as there is normally very few phones for many many people to use.  God Bless your family and your son!  I hope this helps at least a little.  If you have any other quesions, feel free to e-mail me!
375867
Thank you for your kind heart and sensitive mind.  I have a son in Afghanistan, but he has plenty of correspondence.  I am going to list several sites below for soldiers with whom you might wish to correspond.\nThanks again.
663635
Just a question to the poster before me (teeney)...and of course this is just my opinion....\n\nWhat is the point of joining the military to "stay safe"? To me, it is dishonorable and disrespectful for a member of the military to join just for the "benefits" and label. If you are going to serve, you serve 100%. You serve your country and you do what is asked of you, no matter of the level of safety.\n\nFor the asker.....Hun, you join the branch that you feel is right for you. Join the branch which best suits your hobbies, interests, and career choices. Please do not join a branch because it was "safer" than another. Understand that being in the military is both an honor and a burden. If you can outweigh the burden with the honor you will gain....that's what has made the whole experience worth it.\n\nHonestly, as a footnote, I cannot believe the spouses and dependents out there that wear their red, white, and blue with presumed pride, but then complain when their loved ones are called into action. That's part of the job people. If you can't handle it, get off the proverbial porch! \n\n...stepping off the soapbox now\n\nGood luck in all of your future endeavors!\n\nLilD
464021
I am currently a military spouse and if I could do it all over again I would have told my husband to just get a job in his major and not the Army.  The Army takes care of us, they have some great benefits probably the best in the world.  But none of that is worth risking your life for.  I'm not anti-Army, I'm just living the life supporting my husband.  We have a 3 year old, and he just came back from a deployment in Dec and possibly will be leaving again within a month.  Imagine a 3-year old asking for his daddy everyday while he is fighting in a senseless "war".  If you can't, it's pure hell.  I don't recommend military life to anyone unless you are single and times are REALLY hard for you financially.  There are alot of sacrifices you have to make in a military environment.  I have some research for you, go and find out the divorce rate for military servicemen, its beyond the means of high.  I think I just told you the reason why!!
1020209
Well I went through the same things so I can tell you EXACTLY what she have to expect to happen. He is already in the army and at his duty station, which mean that she is NOT in his orders. They can get married but they are NOT going to move her or the kids (if any) because they weren't married BEFORE he got the orders. So as far as the military is concerned, the marriage mean NOTHING. After he comes back home for good or get orders to be stationed somewhere else then its a process (About 2-3weeks) (maybe shorter or longer) to get in the DoD system) he have to go through to get his wife and the kids (if any) in the system so that they can be included in his orders next time. My husband is in the Marines and he got orders to Japan. We got married after he received his orders so i had to wait until his two year were up (which will be next month) before me and our child were included in his orders. So from next month on out me and our daughter will be able to travel with him where-ever he goes....if I can answer any more questions just let me know, cause I KNOW 1st hand!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! As far as housing goes once he is stationed at another base or whateva they an get on base housing (if available) if not he can get BHA (Basic Housing Allowance)...which will pay for them to live in civilian housing off-base. So they can get married and YES it can work out even though there is a HIGH divorce rate for the military..it all depends on them if they willing to make it work...(Its hard at times though but they just have to be strong)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
552362
I think you are alittle ahead of yourself.  It is much different being in boot camp and I assure you it is much difficult than you think. Just because you can do this and that in the civilian world doesn't mean nothing. Here say from other military people, a friend etc.  is just here say. Look sweetie you do not belong to yourself or your parents when you go into service...the government owns you and tells you what you can and canot do   Do more for our country by helping those less forturnate than you. Go to college or try and open up your own business. Own yourself ok?
113550
Chris,\n\nThis is actually a very good question, and I'm glad you had the wherewithal to post it.  The only problem is that you're going to get a LOT (seems to me you already have) of answers from folks who have absolutely NO IDEA what military training, or life in uniform is about.  My opinion is that if you haven't been through it yourself, your answer is formed without basis, and is basically without any merit whatsoever...you people reading this that posted above...you know who I'm speaking to.\n\nAnyhow, good question, Chris!  There are a lot of advantages to military service, but it is not for everyone.  I enjoyed every second of my active service, even basic training...I thought it was FUN.  My experiences were positive, but I noted some things.  These are:\n\n1.  Basic training AKA "boot camp" - I had fun there...it's a mind game more than anything else.  So far as the physical part, that's easier to negotiate.  I saw a bunch of people break down however...but understand that this is what "they" want to happen.  If the lifestyle, mind-set, discipline and taking orders is not for you, you will find that out quickly...the military does not want folks that are not cut out for the life any more than those folks want to stay.\n\n2.  The enlistment period - this isn't as bad as it could be.  One can opt to sign up for two years at a time now instead of four...two years ain't so bad, but it could be if you're miserable.  Four years, if you're not having a good time, must be like purgatory.  Once you sign the contract, it is binding...so, if basic training doesn't weed you out, it could be a loooonng wait.\n\n3.  War - let's face it...that's what you're there for.  You could minimize your risk by picking a specialty that doesn't involve actual combat...nothing wrong with that, everyone has a job to do.  Combat situations are stressful in of itself though...\n\nThat's all I can think of right now.  I'm sure I'm missing something, and I'll update the answer if I think of any more.  Like I said before, it's not for everyone, but heck, either is say, being a CPA.  The only way you're going to know for sure is to try it...you never know, you might be the 1% of the U.S. population that could not think of doing anything else.\n\nADDED 2/25/06 1531 EST:\n\nmedolfan,\n\nPlease read my post, sir...did I single YOU out?  I opined, like you, that SOME folks are offering opinions without basis in fact...since you answered, Chief, are you feeling guilty about something?\n\nIf the statement doesn't apply to YOU, then it should be ignored.  Live and let live, guy.\n\nADDED 3/1/06 @1317 EST:\n\nmedolfan,\n\nYou did imply that you did retire, did you not?  If you cannot accept being called "sir" now that you are in the civilian sector, you're in a world of hurt.  To tell anyone unsuspecting that you "work for a living" when anyone dared show you a bit of respect would mark you as one who can't let go of being out of uniform...your loss, sir.\n\nIF what I wrote was truly meritless, then why post a reply?  Live and let live, guy...your FIRST lesson on being out in the civilian workforce.  I hope you learn it well Chief.
669659
I am an Army brat. My dad is now a retired Lt Col. I've been to Ft. Meade in Maryland, El Toro in California, Keflavik in Iceland, Ramstein in Germany (which I am now at stationed in the Air Force), Mildenhall in England, and Ft. Lewis in Washington. I'm glad that your dad is coming home to you soon. Hope he enjoys his short break from the desert. God bless!
368289
My dad was stationed at Schofield and I loved living there. There are many issues you will need to consider. First off the cost of living is pretty high. Everything costs more and I mean EVERYTHING. There are lots of jobs but you are going to get crackin' right now on finding employers that will work. There are a several civilian companies that do lots of work with the military and hire many people such as yourself. If you check out monster, hotjobs, etc you should see some open jobs at Hickham and Pearl Harbor. That would be a good place to start. Since your wife is from Hawaii she can prepare you for the culture shock.
727123
First of all I assume you are young, using a term like IP. That is so old school and hardcore private. This way of thinking.... is Ok to a point. Yes, watch your ass at all times and rely on your squad. Yes, there are issues with the IPs..... but try to soak in the fact that most of them are just people trying to get along and make the best of it as they have had to deal with crap all of their lives...... which americans dont.  Soak in the experience..... and be thankful. And by the way, save your pay so when you come back you will be set.... don't blow it since you are there.
811600
My husband has been to Iraq twice, the first time for 15 months and the second for 10. He leaves again next summer for another year. The thing that helps me the most is being around other military spouses and families, because they know what I am going through (and don't ask annoying questions like "how do you do it" or "what would you do if he died" or say things like "I could never do that, it must be so hard waiting on him.") I know that being around military families may not be an option since you may not live in the town with him. The first deployment we weren't married yet and I lived in a non-military area. It was different but I was able to find a couple of people (reservists wives, etc) that were going through the same thing. If you can't find someone to hang out with, try an online support group, Yahoo Groups has a lot of them for military girlfriends/fiancees.I also do my best to stay busy, which for me has meant going to school full time. I am graduating soon, and I am planning on doing a lot of volunteer work and staying home with our baby on this next deployment. Anything that will keep you busy and keep your mind off of it as much as possible is a good thing. I also recommend writing to him as much as you can, every day if possible. I like to tell him about my day and "talk" about the kind of stuff we'd talk about if he were home for dinner. That way I don't feel like he's missed out on a whole year of my life. Mail - letters, pictures, packages - are always appreciated when they are deployed. \n\nI know it sucks, but after he has been gone for a little bit you will get into a routine. You will also learn what works for you and what doesn't. I found that the second deployment was easier because it wasn't such a new experience and it was easier for me to get into my "deployment routine." I have also found that if you wake up and tell yourself that it's going to be a good day, and don't allow yourself to do otherwise, you will feel a lot better. Good luck with his deployment and know that everything will be ok because you love each other. When he gets home all the pain and sadness will be worth it, I promise!
1142420
I'm thinking about joining soon too.  I found a few good online resources to help me out.  My favorite is military.com.  Check it out: