By SGT Michael Volkin For most people, deciding which branch
of service to join isn't difficult. Perhaps you come from
a family with a long tradition of joining the Marines, or
you would like to follow in your parent's footsteps and join
the Navy. Military family tradition is certainly well acknowledged
in American society. However, each person is different. Based
on your particular interests and qualifications, you may be
better suited for a particular branch of service that no one
in your family has considered before. Remember, joining the
military isn't like applying for a job; you can't just quit
if you don't like it. You are signing a contract and taking
an oath. So, make a decision based on your interests and do
what will make you happy, otherwise, you won't be.
Marines:
For all intents
and purposes, Marines are considered riflemen first. In basic
training, they receive more marksmanship training than any
other branch of service. Also, Marine basic training is longer
than the other branches. Their Military Occupational Specialty
(MOS) is considered second to their marksmanship training.
The Marines have an incredible ability to convert their dollar
power into combat power, as they do not have a big budget
like the Air Force. All the branches of the military have
a sense of military pride, but the Marines, as a whole, probably
carry the biggest sense of commitment and loyalty to their
branch of service. So, in summary, if you are joining the
military to be in on the action, to be on the front lines,
and to shoot your weapon, the Marines might be the best choice
for you.
Army:
The Army carries
its own unique sense of pride and loyalty. The Army has the
second most intense basic training regimen (after the Marines).
Three of the nine weeks of basic training are devoted to marksmanship.
Soldiers in the Army must have the ability to lead or defend
against an assault. In the Army, a soldier can pick from hundreds
of MOS's. The training you receive from your MOS can transfer
well into civilian jobs.
Navy:
The Navy, although
less intense than the Marines and Army regarding marksmanship,
is deeply rooted with traditions. If you like to travel, the
Navy might be your best option. If you are a family man, you
might want to consider the time you'll spend away from your
family if you join the Navy. On the other hand, if you're
single, the Navy might be a terrific opportunity for you to
explore numerous countries and cultures.
Air Force:
The U.S. Air Force
is certainly an impressive compilation of machinery and technology.
If you are good with computers and electronics, you might
want to consider the Air Force. The Air Force has the best
housing units of all the branches. As far as educational requirements,
the Air Force has the highest standards. Without a high school
diploma, you chances of getting into the Air Force are slim.
Coast Guard:
The Coast Guard
is a branch of service that sometimes goes unnoticed. The
Coast Guard has about 25 enlisted jobs. Their responsibilities
are vast, ranging from search and rescue missions to maritime
law enforcement and even environmental protection. A high
school diploma is required to join the Coast Guard. Basic
training in the Coast Guard is 8-weeks long.
A note of caution;
do not play games with recruiters. If you visit a recruiter
and you're not sure which branch of service to join, tell
them. Do not to sign anything unless you're certain of the
branch you want to join. Weigh all your options, from educational
benefits to training. You'll be glad you did.
SGT Michael Volkin
is the author of The Ultimate Basic Training Guidebook, available
in both paperback and e-book format at www.ultimatebasictrainingguidebook.com.
