Now that you have served, are you likely to recommend your children serve? Same branch?

Twenty years ago, I would have said yes, without reservation. Ten years ago, I encouraged my youngest son to try to find some direction. The recruiter took him drinking and I ended up picking him up from the courthouse. We had moved recently and said son had no idea where he was or how to get home. Today, watching how thinly spread and unsupported our military is, I would have to say no. As proud as I am for having served, from a family of warriors, and watching the change in tactics and geography, I would like to think our leaders have figured out a way to fight effectively but the lack of leadership at the top and financial support at every level forces me to believe otherwise.

If my child chose to go, I would proudly see him off. As a mother, I would worry. Worry is issued at childbirth.

It's an interesting question and it depends on my kids. I wouldn't try to pressure them for sure and of course I'd be proud of them serving in the Navy. I would be proud of them serving in any branch and of course proud even if they don't serve.

I love the idea of them following in my footsteps but if their paths are different I don't have a problem with that either.

I would never sway my son away from Service. However, which branch would depend on his goals. Each branch offers different things, in different ways.

Ignoring individual personality, just for a moment, if he were going enlisted, I would recommend Marines or Air Force over Army or Navy. This isn't to say Army or Navy is bad, just that "initial" starting focus is very "different" between the branches, and you get a very quick "bang for your buck" with the the USMC (Leadership Development) and USAF (Technical Skills) starting at E1. The USN & Army offer those are well, but like a spectrum, they kind of the get the "best of both worlds" (on the enlisted side), which really makes it tricky when you are betting 4 years of your life. When you add in personality, that can definitely change the equation though.

If he were going officer, the choices change again. The Army has their Warrant program, and great opportunities for Commissioned Officers as well. The Navy has A LOT of great programs, especially in medical & flight. This isn't to say the USMC & USAF don't have great officer programs, but the "communities" and promotion opportunities are so much smaller and more tailored.

It's about long term goals. Most of us really didn't know what we'd like to be when we grew up, but keeping as many doors open is always a great goal. Some branches and career paths just sort of shut doors more than others.