Why didn't you join the Corps?

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 May 2014 12:26:08 -0400

Ive had the privilege to work with every branch of service in both garrison and combat. Many times especially during deployments I would come accross a soldier tell me "I wanted to be a Marine but...", followed by some reason that was ligitimate. Ive never had any airman or sailor ever say to me they wanted to join the Corps, it was always soldiers. What was the reason you were turned down by the Corps? What did you not like about the Corps that determined it wasnt for you? Anybody contemplating to join the Corps (ive known only two in my career that was a prior service, a sailor and a soldier, not a common move) ?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2014 12:30 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 May 2014 12:30:04 -0400

I can say for me, it was the Army recruiters. They were always in my high school and I don't remember ever seeing a Marine recruiter. I do remember seeing the Marine's office right next to the Army recruiting office when I went to actually join. The comfort factor of having spoke to the Army recruiter in my high school I guess is what won me over. I have no regrets becoming an American Soldier!

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made May 12 at 2014 12:33 PM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Mon, 12 May 2014 12:33:52 -0400

No desire to, mostly as the main reason for my enlisting was due to my late grandfather's service as a Soldier during WWII and the Korean War.

Response by MAJ Steve Sheridan made May 12 at 2014 12:35 PM

MAJ Steve Sheridan — Mon, 12 May 2014 12:35:35 -0400

I never thought about joining the Military until I got to college and an Army ROTC recruiter asked if I wanted to play Army to see if I liked it. If the Marines had been there instead, I probably would have tried them out.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made May 12 at 2014 1:38 PM

MSG Wade Huffman — Mon, 12 May 2014 13:38:23 -0400

I have a brother that was (oops, sorry, IS) a Marine. I'm not sure exactly what he told me that made me exclude the Marines when I was talking to recruiters (it was a LONG time ago, 1983 to be exact) but I do remember that I only spoke to the Army and Air Force recruiters, and the Army provided a better opportunity to me at the time.

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made May 12 at 2014 1:58 PM

SSgt Gregory Guina — Mon, 12 May 2014 13:58:28 -0400

SSgt Fair I have had Sailors tell me that they wanted to join the Corps however they were unable to join as a Medic since we do not have those within the ranks. The then went to the Navy and became Corpsmen and were some of the hardest "Marines" that I have served with.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2014 2:09 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 May 2014 14:09:47 -0400

After 8 years in the Army I have not forgotten my initial interaction with the Marine Recruiter that solidified my decision to join the US Army. I had taken and successfully passed the ASVAB with a score of 85. I had a clean background check and was ready to depart for initial training as soon as possible. My girlfriend at the time was pregnant and I was looking for healthcare and job stability as well as a better way of life. The Army recruiters offered me a viable solution and swearing in was only a formality. Curious about the Marines and seeing negatives and positives in both branches I went into the Marine recruiting office next door and told him my ASVAB score and that I had a clean background check completed already. He looked at me over his magazine with his feet kicked up on his desk and told me that I would not be able to pick my job and that every Marine is a rifleman first and his job specialty second. I told him I did not have a problem with that. I then asked him if I were to be placed in a high demand MOS could they possibly award me a bonus. He pulled his feet off his desk, sat erect, and slammed his magazine on his desk. The entire time staring me dead in the eye and loudly proclaimed "Son, being a Marine IS your bonus!" After reiterating that I had a child on the way I departed to sign up with the United States Army. My first call from basic training was that I would be having twins. I must say in retrospect that the $19,000 the Army gave me helped considerably. I think I made the right decision for me and my family.

Response by MSgt Keith Hebert made May 12 at 2014 3:58 PM

MSgt Keith Hebert — Mon, 12 May 2014 15:58:22 -0400

I did join the Corps but he is my story.
I went to the armed service center and the first place I went was the Air Force and they wanted 6 years and I did not want 6
Years in case I did not like it then went to the army and navy did not like what I saw.
I walked into the USMC office and the recruiter jumped up meet me half way across the room and said "so you think you want to be a Marine" took it as a challenge and joined.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made May 12 at 2014 6:00 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Mon, 12 May 2014 18:00:43 -0400

I went medical. Army had it, MC does not. had no interest in the Navy. Air Force recruiter was nowhere to be seen (tho I did see their empty desk every so often!). Army got me! When going for my commission, MC STILL has no medical, had NO desire for Navy, and Army was kicking nurses out....AF wanted nurses! Guess where i ended up??!!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2014 6:20 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 May 2014 18:20:53 -0400

I was flip floping between Marines and Army. I ruled out Navy, boats are not for me. Air Force did not interest me unless I was going to be the one flying. Well in my senior year the army recruiters did a class presentation, I filled out a card and the rest is history.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2014 7:44 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 May 2014 19:44:37 -0400

I can tell you why I DID join the Marines. A few reasons.

My dad was Navy during Vietnam. Said he wanted to fight, once he got into the Navy... but his job didn't allow him to get into the stuff. My dad always had the utmost respect for Marines.
My brother also joined the Navy a few years before I went into the Marines, wanted to go to the SEAL program. Didn't get a shot at the SEAL program though and got into a rate that he didn't really want.
I knew I was destined to go into the military. As a kid, I used to run around in the woods in camouflage... so the Navy didn't seem right for me.
I also needed a solid "boot in the rear" to get me in line (I was kind of a punk) and we all know that Marine Corps has the most disciplined and rigorous training and culture in the military. So I signed up. It had the desired effect.

Response by SFC Stephen Carden made May 12 at 2014 9:09 PM

SFC Stephen Carden — Mon, 12 May 2014 21:09:41 -0400

I actually did talk to a Marine recruiter. I had already been on 4 years of active duty with the Army and was a paratrooper. I got out for a few years and decided to come back in. I wanted to try something a little different, so I went and talked to the Marines. The recruiter told me that I would have to go through boot camp, and I said no problem. When he found out I was a parachutist, he said that I would probably be going Recon or ANGLICO, and I said no problem. He told me that I would get busted back from E-5 to E-2, but that I would probably make Lance Corporal at the end of boot camp, and I said PROBLEM! So, I made my way next door and came back into the Army.

Response by SFC Stephen P. made May 12 at 2014 11:16 PM

SFC Stephen P. — Mon, 12 May 2014 23:16:32 -0400

In a word: ego.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 12 at 2014 11:22 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 12 May 2014 23:22:14 -0400

When I was walking from the Army to the Navy Recruiters a big old paw reached out and drug me into a room showing a movie of guys running up on the beach and getting shot. Marine recriuters said "Now don't you want to do that" I said nope and continued to the Navy Recruiter. My Father was a Marine and I was already wll versed about the Marines. Not that it made a hell of a lot of difference in some aspects, My Typing Instructor in Basic Typing was a Marine Gunny, I served with Marines and even towards the end of my Career I was helping the Royal Marines teach US Marines "Riot" Control Procedures. I'm just not cut out to be "Gung Ho" but I was very honored in my Association with the Marines.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 12 at 2014 11:29 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Mon, 12 May 2014 23:29:52 -0400

The smartass in me says to tell you guys that the reason I didn't join the Corps is because I couldn't score low enough on the ASVAB test. The real reason is I was born an Army brat and I will die an Army brat Veteran, and I couldn't see myself in any other branch of the service. I talked with each branch and decided to join the Army out of Loyalty to my father and other Army family members.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2014 11:35 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 May 2014 23:35:07 -0400

My biggest reason was that you could not pick your MOS and that seemed like risky business. Had a buddy that wanted to be infantry and ended up delivering mail for 4 years. So I joined the branch that guaranteed I would serve the US Infantry.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2014 11:38 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 May 2014 23:38:50 -0400

I didn't join because they don't have berets.

Response by SGT Shon D. Hill made May 13 at 2014 4:31 AM

SGT Shon D. Hill — Tue, 13 May 2014 04:31:45 -0400

Marine recruiter had me excited and sent me to MEPS as well! It's just too bad I found out Marines don't have medics and that's the only occupation I wanted! He figured I would just say hell with it, sign me up I guess? Any marines out there think that Sergeant Marine was a little dishonorable for that? I sure felt so :(. Otherwise I respect you fine folks very much! Doc

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made May 13 at 2014 8:07 AM

PO2 Rocky Kleeger — Tue, 13 May 2014 08:07:51 -0400

I did. However, in 1990, I was told that the airwing was full and in order to reenlist, I had to go grunt. I knew then that I didn't have the convictions and discipline it would take to be infantry, so I did not reenlist. I got into the Navy Reserves, then back to active duty and the rest is history

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made May 13 at 2014 9:04 AM

SPC Christopher Smith — Tue, 13 May 2014 09:04:04 -0400

Honestly,

I came in the service at 23, I was a little out of shape after college from a hamstring injury that prevented me from training, and I let myself go a little. I really just thought I wouldn't be able to keep up physically. I was getting older, and seemed to be getting more injury prone.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 10:07 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 May 2014 10:07:48 -0400

The reason, I chose the Army over the Marine Corps, family tradition. Family on both mom and dad's side served in the Army and felt it was my duty to keep tradition.

Response by SGT James Elphick made May 13 at 2014 10:36 AM

SGT James Elphick — Tue, 13 May 2014 10:36:52 -0400

I joined the Army over the Marine Corps, which was actually my first choice, because I wanted to be Airborne Infantry after watching Band of Brothers.

Response by MSgt David Mata made May 13 at 2014 10:45 AM

MSgt David Mata — Tue, 13 May 2014 10:45:38 -0400

My Brother and I lost our Father at an early age. Our Mother struggled and our bellies were fed by SSI Widow Benefits. My Brother and I decided we would show our gratefulness to Uncle Sam for the hookup. He joined the Marines in '95 on a 5 yr stint to become an Avionics Technician (Air Wing-Georgia?)...In '97, when I was graduating, I wanted to follow him into the Marines. Do not know exactly why, but he told me not to join the Marines,..."The Air Force treats its people better and you won't be gone all the time..." (True Story). I took his advice and joined the USAF Security Police (Now Security Forces) in 1997 (17yrs old-Mom signed). My First Four-year Active-Duty Enlistment led me to 3 different base assignments, 3 temporary duty assignmentc (twice to the sandbox, once to Alaska-Eielson). I was also able to attends two Regional Training Center's (Silver Flag Alpha/ Commando Warrior), So I decided to keep going. His Five year enlistment led him to MCAS Iwakuni, El Toro (before it closed) and ended in Coronado. No Sea Service or Temporary Duty Assignments (expeditions?) made his firt enlistment uneventful. My brother ETS'd after 5 years. I have a Love/Hate Relationship now with the USAF. I am being Retired reluctantly and no longer understand these new kids' and Officers' mentality. All Services are the same to me now and I would'nt change my decision for anything. One Confession though: I understand those ARMY dudes way better than Marines. The Jargon, just to name a one....Marines have an awesome Dress Blue Uniform and get the nice chicks...can't see why someone would want to purport themselves to be a Marine?..

Response by Sgt John Henry made May 13 at 2014 11:44 AM

Sgt John Henry — Tue, 13 May 2014 11:44:41 -0400

To be honest I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

But I was a teenager who sought a purpose beyond living in an over-privileged city and suburban lifestyle in a big city, and after talking with all of the recruiters, the Marine recruiters were the most persuasive that I should join the military and that joining the Marines would be like joining a new culture. I think all of the services are important for our country but the Marine Corps was the right culture fit for me.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 11:49 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 May 2014 11:49:49 -0400

I did not join the Marines because I simply wanted to be a soldier. No other reason than that.

Response by CPT Brandon Christensen made May 13 at 2014 11:55 AM

CPT Brandon Christensen — Tue, 13 May 2014 11:55:44 -0400

I love the Army and wouldn't give it up for anything, but I think at the time when I enlisted (2002), stories and movies I have heard/seen scared me away from the Marine corps. At the time I wasn't at great physical or mental state to handle the corps boot camp and life style. But things have changed now since I am in great shape and great mental state to handle that type of "punishment."

Would I contemplate joining the corp now? I don't think so. Maybe in my earlier years as enlisted, but now that I have 11 years in the service and achieved all that I have in the Army, I don't think I would want to give it all away to start fresh with the corps.

Response by SFC Benjamin Parsons made May 13 at 2014 11:59 AM

SFC Benjamin Parsons — Tue, 13 May 2014 11:59:23 -0400

My first choice, and enlistment, was USMC ('70-'72). I was a dumbass kid looking to dodge the draft.
In '78 my civilian career (full service gas station) had evaporated and I wanted to go to Europe. I did speak w/Marines, but they insisted I go back through boot camp since I had been out more than 5 years. One time through Marine Boot Camp in a lifetime is enough. 'Sides their Europe opportunities weren't the greatest anyway.
I did go through Army Basic. I take more pride in my service to both branches than God should allow.
As an Armor ANCOC SGL, I had occasion to rub elbows with Marines, both as students and fellow instructors. We related just fine. Once a Marine .......
The Army can 'bring it' with the best of them. I had Marines tell me so. And I've seen it.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 12:02 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 May 2014 12:02:13 -0400

I never tried or contemplated the Corps. My dad was Navy and I didnt want to go that route. I wanted to jump out of planes and the Army was the quickest route to that end. After having been in the Army for almost 20 years now, there are several times that I have thought "I wish I had joined the corps", as our standards and PC approach has in my opinion degraded our professionalism and adherance to standards a bit.

Response by Thomas Rancourt made May 13 at 2014 12:47 PM

Thomas Rancourt — Tue, 13 May 2014 12:47:21 -0400

I actually wanted to join the Corps at one point. Specifically: Scout Sniper. However, after 2 appointments where the recruiters did not show up, I said "hell with it, my time is being wasted", and went instead for the branch that had the best benefits overall.

Response by SSG Ronald Zudonyi made May 13 at 2014 1:54 PM

SSG Ronald Zudonyi — Tue, 13 May 2014 13:54:05 -0400

When I first enlisted, I signed with the Marines. I went to basic at Parris Island, MCT at Camp Geiger, and School in Courthouse Bay, NC. I ended up as an engineer serving at LeJeune, Okinawa, and then Camp Pendleton before serving with the 13 MEU on a WestPac. I was a ignorant young man when I first got out thinking that the job market would be easy after getting out of the Marines. Sadly, I was wrong. I tried to reenlist with the Marines, but they do not do "retreads" for the MOS I was in. After pondering it for some time, I joined the Army.

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 2:37 PM

MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 May 2014 14:37:40 -0400

The only service I was interested in joining while in High School was the Marine Corps. I went to the local recruiter, after I had already been accepted to college with an academic scholarship, to find out about ROTC and/or USMC Reserve (there were local units). The recruiter was great up until the point where I asked about ROTC/USMCR. He stated,"You don't want to go to college, you want to join the Marine Corps for 6 years as an Infantryman and then decide if you want to go to college or become an Officer." The fact that he had already told me that my ASVAB score would qualify me for any specialty, as well as my guarantee that I was going to college wouldn't sway him. Needless to say, that conversation didn't go anywhere and I celebrated 15 years in the Army last week.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 13 at 2014 3:08 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 13 May 2014 15:08:34 -0400

SSGT,

I didn't join the Marines because, as a boy, I grew up playing Army. While you may know a couple Marines that were soldiers, I have know a ton of former Marines that were in the Army. IF I was not able to be a soldier, being a Marine would be my next choice.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made May 13 at 2014 5:04 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Tue, 13 May 2014 17:04:18 -0400

The Marines are a storied group, but they were not the 82nd Airborne and Special Forces I wanted.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 5:28 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 May 2014 17:28:14 -0400

Marine Corps doesn't have much use for biochemists... with that said, one of my first assignments as an Army biochemist was with the Marine CBIRF team. Kind of ironic.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 5:56 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 May 2014 17:56:46 -0400

After contemplation, I surmise that I did not "join" the Marines; I have always been a Marine and simply earned the title. As has been stated ad nauseum, Marines are different kind of people. When I talked about joining an armed service my dad a retired Marine GySgt stated that Marines where a whole different kind of crazy. He was right, Marines are a whole different kind of crazy. I would not change my decision as there was no decision, I am and will forever be a Marine.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 6:37 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 May 2014 18:37:48 -0400

I spoke to a Marine recruiter when I graduated high school. Wanted to join a Marine band. Problem is, due to a bad experience with water as a child, I am afraid of drowning. I like being in water as long as my feet can touch the bottom but I freak out if I can't touch the bottom. Stupid reason I know, but it kept me from joining the Marines.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 7:51 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 May 2014 19:51:51 -0400

the Marines was my first choice. I was born and raised in San Diego actually right around the corner from Miramar. most of my life I was around Marines friends of mine have joined I went to the recruiter in Poway with a plan of what I wanted to do. I wanted a job in aviation preferably either crewing CH-53 super stallions or load master with C-130s. When I was told I didn't have a choice, I went right next door to the Army and the were more responsive to what I wanted and worked with me. So here I am.

Response by SPC Christopher Reagin made May 14 at 2014 5:12 PM

SPC Christopher Reagin — Wed, 14 May 2014 17:12:57 -0400

I did not join the "Corps" because I wanted to be an Infantryman, and my high ASVAB scores would probably not have allowed that.

Response by Sgt Jesse Serrano made May 14 at 2014 7:43 PM

Sgt Jesse Serrano — Wed, 14 May 2014 19:43:32 -0400

I did.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2014 4:19 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 May 2014 04:19:18 -0400

I signed for the Army, found out the recruiter gave me a lot fluff and BS. Then didnt hear from him in months. Guess they didnt want me bad enough. The Marine Corps wasnt much of a female happy service when I was looking into it, plus I wanted to travel. Navy recruiter walked up to me asked me to join, so I did. Long and behold went in as Corpsman and few years later put on my FMF pin. Greatest reward was getting called "Doc".

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2014 4:33 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 May 2014 04:33:59 -0400

Bring on the hate..... I joined the Army because I felt if an organization was truly good they wouldn't have to tell people how good they are, people would know.

Now 17yrs later I have a different view, but I have never regretted joining the Army. There are good organizations in all the branches (including NG and reserve comps) and one branch is not truly better than the other.

Being stationed on Okinawa, I have truly come to appreciate what the Marines have to offer (like the MV-22) and how willing they are to work with other branches to accomplish the mission.

Response by Sgt Varnaud Shamsideen(Bolton) made May 15 at 2014 5:42 PM

Sgt Varnaud Shamsideen(Bolton) — Thu, 15 May 2014 17:42:57 -0400

Cpl. Ivan Hicks, you just described me perfectly!!!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2014 7:38 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 May 2014 19:38:11 -0400

I almost joined the Corps. I went to meet with a MC recruiter when my best friend was doing RAP. I was young and really didn't know much about any of the branches but I knew I wanted to join the service. The blunt honest answer why I ended up joining the AF is because the MC recruiter that I met was a dick. I got the feeling I wasn't worth his time. The AF recruiter sat down and talked to me like a normal person and laid the options on the table. One month later I left for AF basic training. That was almost 16 years ago. Obviously, I've learned much since then and now understand what each service brings to the table. Do I regret my decision? There were moments. Those moments were not because I don't like the AF. Those moments were because of what Marines do. In mid 2003 forces rolled in across the western border of Iraq and my crew had to stay put at a little Jordanian airfield to receive aircraft that were bringing in equipment and supplies. We were there to handle cargo and cargo planes. That was probably the worst I've ever felt about my decision. I'm not sitting around losing sleep about it but there have been times when I would have preferred to be in a different role.

Response by PO1 G. Leslie /Stiltner made May 16 at 2014 3:07 PM

PO1 G. Leslie /Stiltner — Fri, 16 May 2014 15:07:15 -0400

I attempted to Join the Marines but as the Gunny that was recruiting me made way to many mistakes in my application, (I know this now after being a recruiter myself), I was turned down for a Juvenile Felony waiver. The Marine recruiter swapped with me with a Non Grad that the Navy could not put on but the Marines could and I went Navy!!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2014 7:25 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 May 2014 19:25:23 -0400

I wanted to Join something that meant respect, loyalty, and hard work, at the same time having a career. Then I talked to my parent former Air Force. My uncle prior Army and Marine. He told me it wasn't the life for a female and I believed him. The news articles, documentaries, show a side that I haven't had to cross but seems scary to deal with ie harassment. I do sometimes feel that the Army or Core could have worked. More decipline so I think but the grass isn't always greener.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2014 5:36 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 24 May 2014 17:36:26 -0400

I've been meaning to post on here, but things keep getting in the way. Back in high school I was planning on joining the Marines; my dad served 21 years with 4th Tanks Battalion, 4th Marines as an 1812 then 1813. Unfortunately he only had 19 good years for retirement and a new 1SG came in and railroaded all the SNCOs to start pushing them out, my father was a GySgt, and really screwed him over, costing him his retirement. Then as I was getting serious about joining the military, I was motivated to be a line medic/corpsman. But the Navy recruiter had pissed me off my senior year. He had set up an appointment to meet with me, and I told him that I was looking but not ready to join yet, he had me fill out some forms to take home to, "keep in touch" that's when my dad had saw them and confronted me about them; turns out they were enlistment papers.

I've thought about trying to re enlist into the Marines. I've worked with them before, both in theatre and at Camp Pendleton. But I've noticed when I do, it's when I'm pissed about the lack of disipline from lower enlisted, or the lack of professionalism from senior leaders back when I was still lower enlisted. But now, I've made SGT and I feel like I can start making effective change to my surroundings. Though I still think back sometimes to that, "what if I did go? Could be fun. I can be a bit of a joker sometimes, so I know I could make things "fun".

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made May 25 at 2014 4:03 AM

SSG Ed Mikus — Sun, 25 May 2014 04:03:34 -0400

I walked into the Marine recruiter's office just to anger my father, i walked out because the recruiter was a nut.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2014 2:57 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 May 2014 14:57:03 -0400

Pretty much because the Army Recruiter was the first one that found me. I still wish I would of joined the Coast Guard though!

Response by SFC Walter Mack made May 26 at 2014 2:52 PM

SFC Walter Mack — Mon, 26 May 2014 14:52:23 -0400

I started in the Marines, and honestly it was only because the Marine recruiter was the only one who came to my house. I've also been in the Army for 14 years now. My first 4 years in both were spent in Infantry units.
I learned some very valuable lessons. Any organization you work for ultimately comes down to the people around you. A given organization attracts a certain kind of individual, but there's good and bad in all of them.
My time in the Marines was spent with some of the worst people I've ever met: theives, drug dealers, mean alcoholics and assholes in general. It really gave me a bias against the organization.
My time with the Army Infantry was very different. I had a great command climate, excellent Soldiers and very few of the challenges I faced in the Marines. I was encouraged to advance my career, given the chance to attend schools and I felt welcome in the organization.
Since then, I've experienced a much more mixed bag of cats during my career. I realize it's not the organization that matters, but the people around you.
Why give my life story? Because it's there's a lot of great Marines and leaders in the USMC. The same goes for each branch of the service. Experiences will differ, and I don't doubt that I would have had many great experiences if I had stayed in the Corps. It's too bad that the people around me really ruined it for me.
I don't need any title to make me a man or to prove anything to others. My work ethic speaks for itself, and the work ethic of my Soldiers speaks for my leadership. Let go of the ego, realize that being a Marine isn't what makes a man great, and show others by your efforts that you deserve respect.
Wake up, ruck up, and do work!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2014 6:23 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 May 2014 06:23:09 -0400

There was a time in my life I really did think about joining the Marine corps and had a desire to be a Marine instead of a Soldier. I feel like a vast majority of that desire came from the hype and propaganda that the Marine Corps gets from movies, video games, hollywood etc.
However upon looking into the services and talking to friends and family I made the choice to join the Army instead.
A lot of former marines told me the other forces had a higher quality of life, Which is important to me.
My former service family members also told me the Marines had a lower quality of living.
However, what REALLY made up my mind to not join the Marines, was that I couldn't pick and be guaranteed my specific job or MOS.
If I was going to sign a contract to the military for X amount of years, no way in hell I would sign up without knowing exactly what I was getting myself into. I wanted to have a say in my future and career path. Not just an area or type of work, but to know the specific work I was signing up for.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2014 9:32 AM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 May 2014 09:32:02 -0400

I looked at all of the branches in military. I joined the branch feared by most and respected by all, naturally I joined the Marine Corps. I have talked to a lot of former Marines who joined the Army, the most common thing I hear is how they miss the Corps.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2014 3:42 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 03:42:27 -0400

I believe the Army had more job opportunities than the Corps had to offer. That being said a recruiter referred to as an 'easy sell' once.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Jun 1 at 2014 11:52 AM

1SG Michael Blount — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 11:52:12 -0400

Two reasons: 1. The nearest USMCR station was 30 miles from where I lived. It was a supply depot. I wanted nothing to do with supply. On the other hand, the Army National Guard had an artillery battery 3 miles from where I lived. Yah - I could blow stuff up. 2. It's far easier to make rank in the Army than USMC. And far easier to make rank on the gun line than elsewhere within an artillery battery. If I was lucky, I'd be a Gunnery Sergeant by now, instead of staring at CSM. Now, that raises the question: How'd I get my USMC flavoring? All my deployments have been joint or combined joint operations, with a USMC-heavy element. Probably the biggest influencer was 04-05 when I was deployed to Fallujah. I knew, however, that I was "in" when I went to the Supply Gunny for some more ammo and he hooked me up six ways from Sunday.

Response by LCpl Whitney Yates made Jun 1 at 2014 2:08 PM

LCpl Whitney Yates — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 14:08:57 -0400

Since 9/11 serving in our military felt like a calling. When I hit my junior year and all my peers were focusing on GPA's and researching colleges, I was researching into different branches. My senior year I had decided on Army, but being 5'2 and hardly 100lbs, they laughed in my face. I took it to heart and joined the USMC. When I got out in 2012, I went to the Army recruiting station and asked to enlist and again they said I was a bit on the small side, I laughed and whipped out my DD-214...they shut up after that

Response by SSG Jay OConnor made Jun 2 at 2014 5:41 AM

SSG Jay OConnor — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 05:41:37 -0400

When I was just out of high school, I was in an airport and saw two marines (I knew by the red stripe) fighting in the middle of the airport. Security came to take them away. It started because the Marines were just out of basic and had attitudes. One of them was accidentally bumped into by a civilian and the marine went apeshit. His friend was pulling him away so as not to alert security but he was making such a big deal by being bumped into. My first impression of them was "What a total Jackweed"

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2014 1:04 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 01:04:00 -0400

The main reason I did not join the Corps is because NO Medical MOS. So, I did the next Best Thing, US Navy Hospital Corpsman.

Doc (FMF) Graves

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2014 12:23 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 12:23:25 -0400

Interesting question SSGT. I joined the military at the age of 38! I'm 40 now. I love the Navy Reserves, but they were the only ones who would have me at this age.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2014 3:19 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 15:19:02 -0400

I joined the Marine corps first and did 4 years at Lejune before I joined the Army. The reason why I left is because the Corps does not care about your family. The Army is more family oriented and they take more time to develop you as a person. Now this was pre 9/11 so I'm pretty sure things have changed since then. I do not regret my time in the Marines, and it will always be my foundation. Once a Marine always a Marine.

Response by MSG Martin C. made Jun 3 at 2014 4:05 PM

MSG Martin C. — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 16:05:36 -0400

Marines were my first choice but the recruiter no show at my house and to the appointment the next day at his office in Chula Vista CA. He told me to be there at 07:00 sharp and he just was not there. The Army guy took me to breakfast and I was in the delay entry program the following day. I already had and ASVAB score and had all my documents on hand. However I know that the Army is where I was meant to be and I would not change a single day. If I would had join the corps I probably would had end up hanging around the same guys I was traying to get away from.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2014 6:30 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 18:30:50 -0400

That was my first choice since I was 13 years old even though I had family in the Army, the perception of discipline, tradition, and pride was way higher than the Army! Then there's the uniform...Til this day, I see that as a HUGE plus for the Marine Corps! However, I was a knucklehead; in and out of school, by the time I was able to enlist they told me "NO GEDs" and my ASVAB score was garbage! I walked next door and they took me right in! Of course I took a lot of pride from the day I enlisted and the Pride continues, Til The End! But I still have much respect for those aspect of the Marine Corps, Keep it up! Instead of worrying about boots we may soon get to changing these raggedy ACUs!

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Jun 29 at 2014 6:11 AM

SSG Ed Mikus — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 06:11:40 -0400

I did not join the Corp because the Marine Recruiter was a nut!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2014 12:40 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 00:40:37 -0400

I had gone to PT with all the branches and tried them on.
Marines left me in the dust on their warm up. I attempted to get in to shape but my semester ran out and I had to go in this summer or not at all most likely

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Jun 30 at 2014 11:28 AM

1SG Michael Blount — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 11:28:33 -0400

A couple issues got in the way of my joining USMC. First, the closest USMC-R facility was in New Haven, CT and it was a supply depot. I had no interest in doing supply. In addition, there was an ARNG artilery battery about three miles from where I lived. Hmmm...get to blow up stuff, don't have to clean up the mess - score one for the Army. Secondly, while this may sound mercenary, I got the impression it's tougher to make rank and support a family whilst in the Corps. In the Army, I made E5 by my third year, whereas most Marines are still seeing E4 by the end of year four. However, that all said, ALL my deployments have been with USMC to the point where where I've been described as a Marine trapped in an Army uniform. Fair enough.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Jun 30 at 2014 11:32 AM

LTC Paul Labrador — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 11:32:37 -0400

My MOS is not in the Corps TOE, and the Navy did not want to give me a waiver for my eyes. I joined up during the mid-90s' drawdown and the Navy was being very selective. Their loss was the Army's gain.

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Jun 30 at 2014 6:32 PM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 18:32:24 -0400

Joining the Corps never entered my mind. I was almost ready to go Army right out of HS, but since I was only 17 my parents would not sign for me. Went to College and majored in Women with a minor in Beer. This meant I was getting ready to be drafted in 1966! I wanted a little more control of my life and talked to recruiters. The only one who SEEMED like he was selling something I was interested in was the Navy Recruiter.

My Scores on the entrance exam were high enough that I could probably choose anything I wanted and I was going to go in as an E-3. Now remember that he had offered me E-3 based on my qualifications of having a majored in Women with a minor in Beer. Perfect entrance test for a Sailor. LOL

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Jun 30 at 2014 7:22 PM

Cpl Brett Wagner — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 19:22:09 -0400

I joined the Corps in 1979 & to this day I don't know why I chose the Corps. I am very happy I did because I have worked with all the services as either military or civilian & I've never seen the same brotherhood or Espirt de corps in any other like in the Marine Corps. There are units way tougher than the regular Marine like SEALs, Rangers, Green Berets etc. But unless you are one of those elite troops it is not the same.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 1 at 2014 12:50 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 00:50:03 -0400

The reason I did not join the Marines is because "NO MEDICAL". So I did the next best thing, which was to become a US Navy Hospital Corpsman (FMF).
I have earned my title "DOC" when I serviced with MAWTS-1 and with VMA-214 "The Blacksheep".

That is my story/reason and I am sticking with it.

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2014 9:30 PM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 02 Jul 2014 21:30:44 -0400

I thought about it originally - but I REALLY had doubts that I could survive Boot Camp. I never really thought about it after that.

Response by SSG Robert Bramlett made Jul 5 at 2014 12:11 AM

SSG Robert Bramlett — Sat, 05 Jul 2014 00:11:18 -0400

I did not join the corp because i had a G.E.D. and no collage credits so they would not take me. i am glad it happened because joining the army was the best thing i ever did and i could not imagine serving any other branch. I am army to the bone.
SUA SPONTE!!
"RANGERS LEAD THE WAY"
SSgt bramlett
75th Ranger Regiment
3RD battalion

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2014 3:39 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Jul 2014 15:39:00 -0400

My wife and kids couldn't handle me joining the Marines. I was definitely all about it but family comes first.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 1:45 PM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 13:45:24 -0400

I didnt join the Marines because there office was closed and the Army's wasnt.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2014 9:09 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 21:09:55 -0400

I Earned The Title simply because deep down I knew I could. Didn't want to join any other branch. My Granddad was in The Army Air Corps, My Dad was in the Army, other members of my family were in the Navy so I said What the hell I am going to Earn The Title!!

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2014 12:02 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 12:02:46 -0500

*wipes away the tears of laughter* GySgt Private RallyPoint Member Oh that was a great post...yeah. I never wanted to join the corps, not back then anyway. There's been times in later years that I thought perhaps I would have enjoyed it but not when I was 17. When I was in the process of enlisting in the Navy I was too young to join without permission from a parent. I had to wait for my billet to open up for "A" school as well. During that time, the Marine recruiter kept calling, and he even came by. As determined as he was I might have even given it a go, but my mother (a Navy YN1) told that poor marine she'd stick her boondocker up his arse if he didn't quit coming around. Mothers... what can I say?

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2015 5:00 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 17:00:20 -0500

They told me I couldn't jump out of an airplane and that was all I wanted to do, but got to go to Airborne school with quite a few Marines :)

Response by MSgt Jim Pollock made Feb 26 at 2015 5:02 PM

MSgt Jim Pollock — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 17:02:30 -0500

It's quite simple. Those of us that have a calling to serve have an internal picture of what that looks like. For me, the Air Force best matched that image. It's an important choice. If I joined the Marines because they have the sharpest blues (they do), I doubt I would have retired with 20 years of service. The most successful SMs serve where they fit best. It's an honorable calling however you serve.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2015 5:02 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 17:02:58 -0500

Joining the Marines wasn't ever an option really for me. I wanted to be medical so that I could patch the leaks as well as making them. The Navy couldn't spell my name right (recruiting packet said "Jarvis Butler"), and every time I talked to the Navy Recruiter, they kept trying to get me to become a nuclear reactor technician....despite the fact that I already was a Registered Nurse and could screw up my ordinary desktop computer so badly that the IT guy goes "how the hell??" so I figured me and the word "nuclear" should never be in the same sentence unless it was "nuclear medicine". They also wouldn't guarantee my job in the contract, and the Air Force only wanted flight surgeons at the time...plus I loved the Army as I grew up around the Greatest Generation, many of them paratroopers during WW2.

I have great respect for the Marines, and with all branches, but my only regret was not doing this sooner.
v/r,
CPT Butler

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2015 9:45 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 21:45:38 -0500

I got the distinct impression from the USMC recruiter that I would be doing a lot of running around and being yelled at even after their grueling basic. Didn't sound like my style. The kindler gentler AF wound up suiting me well. I did go to Technial Engineering school with the Marines though and have had the privilege of working with a number of MC officers in the last 3 years of my current job. They were all class acts and some of the smartest guys I've worked with.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2015 9:59 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 21:59:44 -0500

Three words: No Ranger Tab.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Feb 26 at 2015 10:11 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 22:11:52 -0500

My Marine Mom and Marine Dad told me join the Air Force.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2015 10:33 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 22:33:51 -0500

I was talking to a Marine Recruiter but wanted Marry my Highschool sweatheart. She did not want to join initially but one week she gave me a Hall Pass to join. So I had one weak to join and the Marine Recruiter was on leave and the Army Recruiter shot me straight. My father and grandfather were Army so I knew there are elite communities within the Army so I jumped. I haven't regreted it even. I did like my Marine Recruiter but it came down to timing. I just wanted to be a ground guy in combat. The Marine Corp and Army are what you make them. Each division in the Army has it's own culture and so there is flexibility. I see alot of initial Marines end up in the Army.

The branch rivalry is entertaining until it crosses into naïve branchism.
-Rivalry gone funny: News flash the Army V. Navy game. Marines would run around saying Navy rules. Well guess what 98% of the Army doesn't care because they support real football teams. The only guys in the Army that care went to school there, as for the rest of us root for SEC or other such rivalries. Navy and Marines go write Navy beat Army in chalk on the sidewalks all day, guess we don't care.
-Niave branchism that fat Army guys being chaptered out are still being forced to come to work to earn their pay, unlike fat Marines who get light duty or sent home with pay.
-Branch elitism is funny Army and Marines we get the shaft on training that sets us up for employment meanwhile Navy and Air Force have many oppritunities. We also forget that proximity to the fight is not a measure of contribution to the fight.

That being said I love the Marine Corp and Respect there service.

Response by SPC David Shaffer made Feb 26 at 2015 10:45 PM

SPC David Shaffer — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 22:45:52 -0500

I joined the Army because I wanted to be a Ranger. I had other MOS choices, but I wanted to be Infantry.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2015 10:58 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 22:58:05 -0500

I failed the test.....my head didn't fit in the jar.

Shots fired....I have my PT Belt to keep me safe... :D

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2015 11:29 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 23:29:34 -0500

Because I wanted to be the best.