Which service should my 18 year old daughter join?

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 12:11:07 -0500

My kid Is going in, and I'm saying Air Force. What do you say? And some Pro's and Con's on this would be great. She holds a good GPA 3.8 and Made PO1 in the Navy Sea Cadets. So there telling me she can inter as a E-3. Help on this would be great.  

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jan 7 at 2014 12:20 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 12:20:58 -0500

Since she's already familiar with naval infrastructure, why not Navy?

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Jan 7 at 2014 12:24 PM

CH (CPT) Heather Davis — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 12:24:09 -0500

SFC Marley: I would start off with asking your daughter does she like the field? Does she like being on a ship? What drives her and motivates her? The Navy takes longer to make rank compared to the Army. The Navy does have the flexibility of being able to see the world. The Army is the only force that has the flexibility in promotion and going from enlisted to warrant officer. I would look at the jobs that she qualifies for, and I would look at her ability to cope and her mindset. I came in the military as an E1, I was fortunate I was working in a MI background and I had to have a TS SCI. I would look at how does she deal with psychological stressors and the demands that each service puts on their service member. I came in the Military 1984 and it has changed drastically.

Response by MAJ Bryan Zeski made Jan 7 at 2014 2:04 PM

MAJ Bryan Zeski — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 14:04:58 -0500

I vote Navy. Why? Because the Navy is pretty much the only service where the young, non-attached (family), person can go and really get the opportunity to see various parts of the world under in a semi-controlled environment. All of the services are great for instilling discipline and for gaining practical work experience, etc etc etc, but the Navy is the only one where the Members get to really and truly see and experience other cultures on a regular basis.

If I were 18 and going the service again, I would tell myself to go Navy. I probably wouldn't listen to me because when I was 18, I knew everything already, so I would probably think my older self was stupid, but that's an entirely different subject.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2014 2:55 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 14:55:35 -0500

Possible Academy Candidate? What interests her other than just military -- command, combat, weapons systems, flight school, accounting, personnel, supply, math, science, engineering?

She has an outstanding GPA. A few years ago a Navy CPO or a Senator would recommend a few deserving military kids to the service academy.

Has she considered officer education? This gets her a well respected degree and commissioning as an officer.

Response by CMC Robert Young made Jan 8 at 2014 3:16 PM

CMC Robert Young — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 15:16:22 -0500

Tell her to consider (particularly since she has been a Sea Cadet) talking with a Coast Guard recruiter depending on what she wants to do. It is a little known fact that the USCG was the first military service to allow women into all job specialties (more than 30 years ago). I realize we have no traditional combat arms rate/MOS but off shore drug or migrant interdiction or the surf community are as challenging as anything done any where. With her grades, the USCG Academy might be an option if she wants to go to the dark side. The Coast Guard also gives (or rather requires) junior people more responsibilities earlier in their careers. We have no reservations about giving a 20 year E4 a half million dollar motor lifeboat and sending them and their crew into a gale in the middle of the night for search & rescue; or asking 24 year H60 pilots to fly into a hurricane. these things tend to make them grow up quickly, and get really good at what they do in hurry! Also advancements depending on her rate/MOS may be significantly faster than other services simply because Coast Guard members compete for promotion against everybody in their rate/MOS at their pay grade service wide; not just people at their unit. The consequence is that there are no local quotas for promotion.  I know it sounds bias, but I grew up in a military family. Dad (God rest him) was Army; two uncles in the Air Force, and one in the Navy; and my step son just finished four years in the Marine Corps. I've seen them all, and they all have their advantages. It may just depend on what she wants to do. Best of luck to her!!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2014 3:50 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 15:50:02 -0500

Well she can be a weather observer in the Air Force. I used to be, many many moons.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Mar 24 at 2014 10:51 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 22:51:47 -0400

What does she want? If quality of life issues are important to Her, Most definitely the Air Force. If Travel is the end all be all Join my Navy. If you really love Physical Fitness and Discipline, Marine Corps. See what the ASVAP test results are and see what she is suited for. Never Know she might be the next Gracie Hopper, I called her Admiral to her face.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2014 11:34 PM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 23:34:37 -0400

The question isn't "which service", it's "what do you want to do?".  Sometimes there's redundancy between the services.  But often your job desires are restricted to only one or two.  Have her determine what she wants to do and then determine which service will support that.

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Mar 24 at 2014 11:47 PM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 23:47:00 -0400

What uniform is she going to be proudest wearing? Her GPA is good, Annapolis and a Marin Corp Commission isn't unreasonable. West Point? Street to seat Army Warrant Helicopter pilot... There are so many options and any one of them are good. She see's the loadmaster as an option, why not take it a step further and go for pilot.... The Sky is the Limit...

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2014 3:22 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 30 Apr 2014 15:22:54 -0400

Army!

Airborne Ranger 11B!!!

Go big or go home is how I see it LOL

Response by SFC Rich Carey made Apr 30 at 2014 3:57 PM

SFC Rich Carey — Wed, 30 Apr 2014 15:57:59 -0400

Well what are her buying motives? What she she looking to get out of it, Training, Education, Adventure, Money, or Service to Country? What are the long range goals?
I could take a guess at it, however until you know her needs, wants, and or desires it is hard to provide educated opinion :-)

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2014 12:31 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 00:31:05 -0400

I think the first thing to consider is what are her aspirations? I would say AF too because we do seem to have a higher standard of living. But she needs to decide what she wants to do first and then decide what branch to join and make sure that is what she gets written on the contract when she enlists at MEPS even if it means waiting longer to leave for BMT.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Jun 25 at 2014 10:57 AM

LTC Paul Labrador — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 10:57:36 -0400

What is her long term goal? Is the military going to be her career or just a stepping stone? Is she looking at college? Does she want a commission? And finally, what service does she thinks fits her best?

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Jun 25 at 2014 11:33 AM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 11:33:41 -0400

Having worked with Sea Cadets (yes I was a Sea Cadet Officer) I know how much training and expertise they get and exposure to Navy. If she has not made up her mind to GO NAVY by now, she might want to consider other options. It may be harder to give up the E-3 in the Sea Services (Yes Navy, Coast Guard AND Marines, but that is her choice).

As many mentioned, find out where she leans today, but promotion in the Navy and Coast Guard is based on Service Wide Competition based on her speciality and NOT limited to openings at her command. I found that promotion in Navy was actually faster in times of draw down and peace in the Navy than other services, but that may not be a selling point for her either.

Academy applications are probably almost done, if not already filled, for this year. But many good schools are still open and have good ROTC programs if she does want to go into the officer side.

I wish her good luck in her decision and you the best of everything as you continue to guide her and coach her.

Response by MSG Martin C. made Jun 25 at 2014 12:01 PM

MSG Martin C. — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 12:01:43 -0400

I was an Army recruiter for a few years and this seems to be a difficult decision for applicants that have a parent in the service or some sort of attachment to a branch. My two cents of advice to your daughter is the following.
1. Do your research what branch guarantees the career opportunities that you are seeking?
2. Is this only to give you a step in stone for something else i.e. money for college or are you interested in making it a career.
3. What do you know about each branch and their role on the big picture? What do you think your function will be or what do you want it to be?
4. Bottom line who will give you the best deal for your service.
5. Have you take a moment by yourself and picture yourself in any other branches? Do you have an inclination to any particular branch and why?
6. How is your personality? Are you very technical? Outdoorsy and rugged? All of the branches have a different style and certain personalities fit better in a specific branch.
7. Have you research the promotion systems? They are different some branches require test taking other are strictly performance. This will make a huge difference when it’s time to advance I personally always hated test and school environments so Air force and Navy were out of the question solely based on their promotion system.
8. What branch provides the most avenues for career change within their branch? Like in the army you can begin enlisted change jobs attend OCS or Warrant officer training a lot easier than other branches because of how large we are we have more vacancies.
I wish you luck and remember it’s your life and career you need to make a decision that you and only you can live with gather as much information as you can possibly can and follow your dreams.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2014 12:28 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 12:28:21 -0400

As a dual service veteran in both the Navy and Air Force, I say Air Force. Enough said.

Response by PO1 Alan Lail made Jun 25 at 2014 8:25 PM

PO1 Alan Lail — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 20:25:44 -0400

Only one I would recommend is the Coast Guard. Got purpose in Peace as well as war.
Besides, it did well for me the 21 years past.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2014 9:52 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Jul 2014 21:52:49 -0400

I would have my daughter join the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps.

It is not the military but it is still a uniformed service. They are payed and area just like the military. Just think of the Coast Guard as the step sister to the military. The PHSCC is like the cousin you only see when you aunt visits once is a blue moon. They are commissioned and work in the health sector.

United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (PHSCC),[5] also referred to as the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service, is the federal uniformed service of the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) and is one of the seven uniformed services of the United States.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Jul 16 at 2014 11:38 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Wed, 16 Jul 2014 23:38:39 -0400

You raised her right I'm sure she will make a Great Decision. I tell folks, If quality of life is the most important thing, Join the Air Force. If Travel is what you want to do Join My Navy. If your biggest goal if Physical Fitness join the Marines (Most pull ups I've ever seen done Personally was by a Female Marine). My knowledge of the Army is very Limited but I lived for a bit with the Ceremonial Folks at Ft Myers for a while in DC. Very Impressive.

Response by SPC Dennis Mullins made Jul 17 at 2014 12:03 AM

SPC Dennis Mullins — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 00:03:05 -0400

College not military

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2014 8:49 PM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Jul 2014 20:49:00 -0400

Craig, personally, I'd have her make two lists. A "MUST" list of crap she wants to do, that she can't live without; and a "OH-HELLS-NO" list of total deal breakers.

Get as MANY things on those lists as she can, and THEN start whittling down the options. This "MUST" may be something that the Marines don't have. That "NO" may be something that the Air Force requires.

If her lists are good enough, she will eliminate all FIVE services.

NOW, get her to go back and RATE all of her answers: 1 for absolutely, 5 for well, maybe.

Then get her to go through and match up services again. She will find that her "Oh I GOTTA see Guam" may NOT be as important as she thought it was, and the "No boats," may keep her out of SOME of the Marine Corps or SOME of the Coast Guard, but not all of it...

I refuse to dig on specific services, because we all have a lot to offer and we ALL have a long list of total crap to serve as well. Any could be a good choice OR a total life-f^ck. If she REALLY thinks it through, and ONLY accepts what is acceptable for her (and not a promise that she can "switch career fields any time"), odds are, she'll be happy.

Response by COL Heather Ierardi made Aug 20 at 2014 1:34 AM

COL Heather Ierardi — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 01:34:58 -0400

Just joined RallyPoint…what did she decide? My vote would be Army, where the focus at all ranks is leader development. And its where I served for 27 years. I miss it so!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 7:07 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 07:07:53 -0400

As a former recruiter this is a touchy subject because I would ask you, why not the same branch that you chose? All of my children joined the Army and I was better able to mentor them and assist them in progressing.
I learned a lot from other branch recruiters while I was out there and I will tell you that the Army is the ONLY branch that guarantees a MOS, the others make you choose career fields and try to get you the job you want.
I say let her sit with a recruiter from EACH branch and listen to their pitch but don't sign anything. That way she can make an educated decision. Ultimately it is about what she wants and what she will get from that branch.

Response by SSG David Fahy made Nov 3 at 2014 3:33 AM

SSG David Fahy — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 03:33:21 -0500

I would not recommend going into any branch of the service now days. My son enlisted five years ago after me telling him I thought he shouldn't but,that was his choice. The way the country is going and the pink slips there giving those who served in combat the last few years and what about those who retired or are disabled with the type of/ amount of care and of course the quality of health care given, I think going into any branch of service should be as a last resource. I would recommend going into a civilian job market before going into the military service. I have seen a lot of the benefits that I was promised lost over the years and the quality of the health care I received in the military as well as at the VA needs a lot of improvement.

Response by SFC Mark Hoover made Nov 27 at 2014 1:17 PM

SFC Mark Hoover — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 13:17:51 -0500

What is her area of interest.
Depends on the area on which service has the best training.
USMC- great Comradship/Training
USA Great Training
USN Travel/Training
USCG stationed near Water
Living conditions are better in the USAF

They are all good

I was a Sea Cadet also
USMC
USA

Response by SGT Mark Sullivan made Nov 29 at 2014 5:10 PM

SGT Mark Sullivan — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 17:10:13 -0500

I'd say Coast Guard or Navy, depending upon what she wants to do MOS wise

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2014 1:36 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 01:36:06 -0500

SFC Markley...what does she enjoy doing and what does she want to do in the long run? The Air Force will definitely have the "more comfortable" life, but it is not necessarily the best. Also, where does she want to go? I would consider that in her decision. The Navy could spend a lot of time at sea, but then also see a lot of great places around the world. Does she want to go the enlisted route, or has she considered warrant or officer? All three have their pluses and minuses. I think there is (or used to be) a High School to Flight School program for Warrant Officers here in the Army.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 5 at 2014 7:47 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Dec 2014 07:47:49 -0500

Air Force. And if she can swing it, she should go ROTC and get the Air Force to pay for college, and enter as an officer.

But even if she's going to enlist, the Air Force has the best quality of life.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2015 9:51 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 24 Jan 2015 09:51:22 -0500

If she already has experience with the Navy Sea Cadets then I would say Navy.

Response by GySgt Joe Strong made Mar 5 at 2015 12:16 PM

GySgt Joe Strong — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 12:16:24 -0500

What does she want to do? What are her career goals? Which Service has the best opportunity to train her in the Career Field she wants?

At a minimum those 3 questions need answers. The following are of lesser importance but also need answers.

Also temperamentally, is she a no-go for any particular service? Is there one whose culture she would naturally fit in?

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Apr 6 at 2015 12:43 AM

CPT Ahmed Faried — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 00:43:24 -0400

So what did she pick?

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 4:01 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 04:01:56 -0400

Air Force!!!!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 4:44 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 04:44:50 -0400

My parents tried to convince me to go Air Force if I was to join.....
She needs to consider her long term goals when choosing. What career path she wants, if she makes a career of it what rank would she be able to obtain for retirement, and what is retention like?
I choose Army because even going in as a E3 I could get commissioned and retired (hopefully) as at least a O5. The Army promotes faster than the Air Force = more money long term. That was one of my deciding factors.
Each branch has their pros and cons, be supportive and educate yourselves before making a decision.
Best of luck to you both.

Response by 2LT Nathaniel Koch made Apr 24 at 2015 10:53 AM

2LT Nathaniel Koch — Fri, 24 Apr 2015 10:53:34 -0400

Honestly, I enlisted into the Marine Corps as soon as I graduated High School, but I still insisted all of my friends join the Air Force. It is without trying to offend others like being in the military but not. They receive better treatment better conditions and are afforded more opportunities. I think as a father one would insist their child join the branch that would truly give them the most opportunities.

Response by SGT William Howell made May 6 at 2015 11:21 AM

SGT William Howell — Wed, 06 May 2015 11:21:19 -0400

I have been in both the Navy and Army. To quote another RP member
"Join the Navy to build a resume. Join the Army to build character."

I think this applies.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jun 29 at 2015 9:57 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 21:57:01 -0400

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member I am going to say college first if that is a possibility. Even if she does not go officer, having the college degree will help her get promoted super fast. Also, Go Hogs!

Response by CPO Gregory Smith made Jun 30 at 2015 6:50 PM

CPO Gregory Smith — Tue, 30 Jun 2015 18:50:01 -0400

I think it comes down to quality of life. If she doesn't want a life outside of work and she is OK with that, I say go Navy. Even in homeport or shore duty you still have watches to stand in addition to normal work. If she wants a normal life, at least as close as you can get to one being in the military, it's Air Force all day.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Jul 23 at 2015 9:34 PM

SGT Rick Ash — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 21:34:11 -0400

SFC Craig Markley
I agree with you about the AIR FORCE. I was ARMY and went through the best schools they had but it was common knowledge that the AF had better classes, especially in Electronics. If your daughter has that kind of GPA & that rating from the Sea Cadets she will get credit for that with the AF as well. She will also do well on entrance testing and have a great choice of MOS to choose from. The ARMY had good schools but from all I learned over the years the AIR FORCE is what I would join if I had it to do over.

Response by PO2 Jeffrey Sheibels made Jul 24 at 2015 1:12 AM

PO2 Jeffrey Sheibels — Fri, 24 Jul 2015 01:12:50 -0400

Tell her to go to an academy unless she really wants to do a specific job. Also make sure anything that is promised is put in writing. I loved the people I worked with in the Coast Guard. If I had it to do over again, I would have gone to the academy.

Response by CPO Jim Wingate made Jul 28 at 2015 7:24 PM

CPO Jim Wingate — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 19:24:59 -0400

Coast Guard, Sea Cadet, great service.enough said

Response by Maj Mike Sciales made Aug 5 at 2015 11:23 AM

Maj Mike Sciales — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 11:23:02 -0400

The answer depends on her personality and career field. What does she think? The AF will offer her a lot of responsibility and a fair amount of independence - that can lead to loneliness. She must be willing to accept that there will be accommodations she must make (weekends, holidays, deployments, strange new sciences like Total Quality Management) and working for and with people who might be radically different from her past peer groups. If she likes smaller outfits and has a bent towards the environment, the US Coast Guard is an excellent organization. If she wants to learn to be tough and capable, the Marines are the obvious choice. If she wants to be a part of a large organization with a myriad of jobs & opportunities, then there is the Army. For great jobs, travel and a strong team focus, there is the Navy. Each tribe offers something different and the first thing would be to identify a tribe she'd like to join. If she knows what job she wants, maybe used RP to identify young troops who might be able to answer her questions. Don't just look at getting E-3 out of the gate. I saw guys (they'd signed for 6 years) go to E-1 because they weren't ready. Good luck!

Response by MSgt Marvin Kinderknecht made Aug 7 at 2015 6:52 PM

MSgt Marvin Kinderknecht — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 18:52:26 -0400

Depends on her goals. Does she know what she wants to be in 5-10-15 years? they all s world travel and promise a lot of BS.. My Grandson got 55,000 for joining the Army. Go for the best deal. You can always change after your first hitch. if she wants to be an officer, go with the best offer. The Army has as many planes as the Air Force. she can also look for what she can do after 20. A lot of careers do not compute in the civilian world. Go luck, expect the worst and hope for the best.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 7 at 2015 9:58 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 21:58:31 -0400

Air Force and Coast Guard. I hear they take care of their folks.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 5:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 05:17:26 -0400

it really depends on what she wants to do, but I would advise going OCS and becoming an officer. Air Force and navy have better jobs that would coincide with a civilian career once she finished her time in service.

Response by Cpl Gerald Cohen made Aug 9 at 2015 7:18 PM

Cpl Gerald Cohen — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 19:18:23 -0400

Ask her to analyze which service offers her the best choice of careers in the areas she is interested in. With a good grade point average and high ranking in her Navy Sea Cadets, she would be a good candidate for all services but best for the one that best fits her choice of career fields.

Response by CMSgt John Momaney made Aug 9 at 2015 7:40 PM

CMSgt John Momaney — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 19:40:43 -0400

In an Executive position I would often stop and talk to employees. Often they would say they wanted to go to college but could not afford to. I asked if they ever thought of going into the military to take advantage of their education programs. Most said no and that would end our conversation. Those that showed an interest I would suggest the Air Force. Reason: stability, availability, and affordability. You could stay at one base for four years. Air Force bases were located close colleges. Colleges classes are available on the base usually. Depending on the state you were in your first year tuition may be free. The goal I placed before them was to complete an associates degree in their first four yeas. Many said they never thought of this. About 10 enlisted and one received an appointment to the Air Force Academy.

Response by SGT Christopher Churilla made Aug 12 at 2015 12:13 PM

SGT Christopher Churilla — Wed, 12 Aug 2015 12:13:04 -0400

I think it's up to her. Going further, I think she should go with what interests or excites her, because I think someone who is in a job who wants to be there will put forth extra effort. So if it's boats that's her thing, she should go Navy, but if it's planes then the Air Force.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2015 12:20 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Aug 2015 12:20:23 -0400

Sorry, just noticed this was a year old. Removed my response. How do I delete completely?

Response by Maj William Gambrell made Aug 14 at 2015 1:36 AM

Maj William Gambrell — Fri, 14 Aug 2015 01:36:46 -0400

It definitely depends on personality. My father was a retired SNCO from the Air Force and I thought that was the right path as I decided to become an officer for the Air Force. I was wrong based on my personality. The Air Force is the most bureaucratic of all the services. I am more direct and don't like politics. If I had to do it all over again, I would have joined the Marines.

My order based on my perspective:

Marines
Air Force
Navy
Army

Response by Lt Col John Eliopolo Cpc, Eli Mp made Aug 14 at 2015 10:24 AM

Lt Col John Eliopolo Cpc, Eli Mp — Fri, 14 Aug 2015 10:24:30 -0400

Expose her to all of them and let her pick the one that fits her personality. For some individuals, the Air Force doesn't have enough action for their tastes, they get bored; for others, its perfect for them. All depends on the individual. I've seen happy/unhappy members in each branch.

Response by SSG(P) D. Wright Downs made Aug 22 at 2015 7:01 PM

SSG(P) D. Wright Downs — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 19:01:07 -0400

Your daughter will do the best in whatever branch she chooses. You can tell her what each branch is about, go with her to the recruiters, and get as much information as they will give her about the branch of service and what the can do by contract. With you with her and by you having been in or being in the military, let them know . I advise she take a good self defense course, too, regardless of the branch of service she chooses. No branch is without shame when it comes to rape and sexual assault. I am an MST survivor--I got where I got by not reporting it. It happens. Face it. Make sure your daughter knows it happens and prepare her for the fact that it can happen by making sure she knows the value of the Battle Buddy system at all times. That is what is best. What her interest are will lead her to the best choice and what her personality is. Easy going and not into disciple is Air Force. Want to fight, go Army. Want to have your personality remade to fit the Corps, Go Marines. Like the Water go Navy. Want to work every day, go coast Guard. That is about it. I would not have made it in the Marines, I have too much attitude. I love theMarines, though. Respect every one. I was one heck of a Soldier and proud to have been a Soldier. Partied with Marines and Coasties in Defense School. Good luck to both of you. yYour daughter is becoming a woman.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 29 at 2015 7:57 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 29 Aug 2015 19:57:48 -0400

AF. I have a sense she does not want to make a career of the military.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 23 at 2015 9:08 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 21:08:20 -0400

What are her goals pertaining to the military and post military?

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2015 9:35 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 21:35:59 -0400

I think she should research the career fields and then make her choice.

All services are good, and all services are bad.

But, I believe she will be happy where she can get a job she likes.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2015 7:23 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Sep 2015 19:23:46 -0400

All depends on how much see wants that MOS, which can always be changed later.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2015 5:50 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 05:50:31 -0400

It really depends on her as a person and what she wants to do.

I would say, if she wants to have a family (obviously, in the distant future ;) ) as well as a career, the Navy is a great choice. The USN has the best maternity leave policies, as well as some of the most generous TriCare benefits for dependent children. The Navy also has very generous TA allowances for college.

Of course, in the near-future, the Navy has some of the best opportunities for travel, on-the-job training (rate-dependent, obviously), and the advantage of being the only service which is constantly forward-deployed even in times of peace. So if she's looking for unique life experiences, I don't really know if the Navy can be beat.

Response by TSgt Robert Mahaffy made Sep 26 at 2015 3:11 PM

TSgt Robert Mahaffy — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 15:11:12 -0400

In this day and age, if it were my child, I'd say stay out of operational units. Become a dental tech or something very low profile. Do one tour, get your GI Bill, punch out and have a "life". The military as a career is not what it used to be.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2015 3:36 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 15:36:31 -0400

I am Army to the core, but If it were my Daughter joining the military I would choose the Air Force. She would have the same benefits that being in another branch would, but of all branches they are the most Civilian like (no offense U.S. Air Force members!) I would also encourage her to choose a specialty that is closest to what she wants to be in the future and to go to college any opportunity she has. It sounds to me like you just want to set your Daughter up for success! Bravo!

Response by PO2 Robert Cuminale made Oct 31 at 2015 8:25 AM

PO2 Robert Cuminale — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 08:25:01 -0400

I'll admit to bias up front but I objective.
I prefer the Navy. I worked with Army and Air Force and noticed a difference in personnel training and leadership expectations in both.
I closed down Ramey Air Force Base 40 years ago. It was shut down with little notice in 60 days. I was sent down to care for the telephone exchange for the other functions like the Coast Guard, FAA and other agencies. A Sargent who was retiring in a few months was there and was supposed to do it but couldn't. After nearly 20 years all he knew how to do was install telephones. I also didn't like their promotion system. If there was no opening for a higher grade at your base you didn't get the promotion. Naval personnel compete fleet wide and would get promoted even if there was really no slot for that grade at their command. It evens out as personnel are transferred.
Navy Interior Communications Electricians were expected to everything concerning the exchange as well as other communications devices such as the relative speed indicator, engine order telegraph and gyrocompass.
As a Construction Electrician I worked on all things electrical which included all the functions in a telephone exchange, running generators, shop work, putting up power poles and stringing power lines. Being assigned to a base Public Works Department for 4 years I actually had an opportunity to do all those tasks as well as work a series circuit street light system, a rarity from way back. I also managed the 23 civilian operators and did the clerical work for a period as company clerk. But I also had military functions as a member of Bravo Company which is a small arms group and part of the chain of command. My experiences as a SEABEE were a lot different than of those in the sea services. I used to be amazed at all the people there who hadn't touched a firearm since boot camp despite 30 years service. I've noticed in conversations with current and late past years service people an emphasis on the technical side of their enlistment with a a degradation in the military aspects. Folks, you aren't working for Apple or Facebook.
When I started my business in 1985 after I was laid off from the destroyed Bell System ( thank you DOJ) All of that experience helped me run it for 30 years. I doubt that Air Force Sargent could have down that.
There's still a high demand for tradesmen in this country especially for welders and tool and die makers. And anything IT and electronics related. The Navy had a difficult time reenlisting personnel in those fields. Not every job requires college as one would think if you listen to the educators. Management functions may require it and that is an option if management is your goal and can be added by attending night classes and online study.
There's my argument for enlistment in the Navy.
PS I was also a Sea Cadet.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2015 8:49 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 08:49:34 -0400

I vote Army, 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member, only because I had a great experience in the Army. Air Force would be a close second. I've never been in the Air Force, but it seems to be the easiest Service for a person to adjust to, coming from civilian life.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Oct 31 at 2015 10:51 AM

MAJ David Vermillion — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 10:51:19 -0400

What I like about all of this is the time to which she can think about the future. Being in the service of her choice is important and gives time for mature thoughts about what she wants to do with the educational benefits to help her achieve her goals. It's her decision to make, all you can do is give good advice. Good luck.

Response by LCpl Steven Fiore made Oct 31 at 2015 2:38 PM

LCpl Steven Fiore — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 14:38:34 -0400

This should be 100% her choice. Point her in the direction for research.

I walked into only 1 recruiting station. My mind was made up.

I come from a long line of Navy gentlemen. Guess i had to be different.

Response by TSgt John Temblador, PI, CIPA made Nov 1 at 2015 12:19 AM

TSgt John Temblador, PI, CIPA — Sun, 01 Nov 2015 00:19:56 -0400

Response by TSgt John Temblador, PI, CIPA made Nov 1 at 2015 12:20 AM

TSgt John Temblador, PI, CIPA — Sun, 01 Nov 2015 00:20:18 -0400

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Apr 17 at 2016 5:06 AM

Capt Jeff S. — Sun, 17 Apr 2016 05:06:07 -0400

What CMC Robert Young said. ; )

Response by SFC Antonio Nieto made Apr 17 at 2016 6:54 AM

SFC Antonio Nieto — Sun, 17 Apr 2016 06:54:15 -0400

She should be going to a service academy with that potential that she has

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Apr 17 at 2016 10:14 AM

MSgt John McGowan — Sun, 17 Apr 2016 10:14:46 -0400

SFC. thank you for allowing input on such a serious matter. I have always thought that retirees were one good source of enlistments. Looking as a long time ago retired MSgt I stopped advising young men to go the service route. The military has to many issues that is up in the air and it just changed so much over the last few years. PC is the name of the game and the military is a big social experiment. I have no idea how many incidents happen now but the one at the retirement cermony was any indication of military life I wouldn't even go in now. If she insist, I would go CG. Thank you again for allowing our input.

Response by MSgt Marvin Kinderknecht made Apr 17 at 2016 1:42 PM

MSgt Marvin Kinderknecht — Sun, 17 Apr 2016 13:42:55 -0400

Hard to say. Really don't know until she tests out. I suppose all services have their own test. My Grandson got 55 grand from the Army. It depends on what she is good at. What courses did she like in High School? Navy and Army have more opportunities than the rest. Coast Guard sounds like fun. Does she like ships, airplanes or does she want to stay on the ground (Army). What are her interest and which service while enhance those interest. Many choices, all good. Best of luck. Also helps to pray for guidance.

Response by 1SG James Lampe made Apr 17 at 2016 2:18 PM

1SG James Lampe — Sun, 17 Apr 2016 14:18:54 -0400

My daughter joined the Navy approximately 4 years ago. Before she decided that she was going to enlist but wasn't sure which branch, I told her that in my experience, just through talking with others and seeing and reading about the topic, I felt that the Navy was the most progressive regarding integration of women into the service. I told to avoid the Army and Marine Corps, again, just based off of my experience hearing, observing and listening, and if she was not interested in the Navy to then consider the Air Force.
She is happy with her choice and has achieved many things already, including starting as an SR and making it to PO2 in the 4 years that she's been in. Most importantly, she has told me that not once has she ever felt that she has been treated any differently because she is a female and has had all of the opportunity as her male counterparts. What amazes me the most is that Dad was right for a change :-)
Good luck and best wishes for your daughter.