Military questions and comments.

[Teacher]

I have been roaming these forums for a couple of months. I have seen many things that have been done in the past to help improve TAO and its community. With all the improvements that our TAO "Vets" have made I find it difficult to come up with a helpful idea that has not been done or discussed already.

Because I want to make an attempt to give back to the community but don't have the TAO experience to come up with an original idea.

So I figured I would post a thread about something that I do have some knowledge about and could be helpful in the coming months ahead. I have searched and found multiple threads regarding everything that I would like to do, but instead of bumping multiple threads that are over a year old I thought I would make a thread that combined them all. (Hopefully this is the right decision? :huh:

These are the things that I would like people to be able to posts in this thread. Along with quick descriptions below:

1. Questions concerning enlisting
2. A question concerning what your recruitment Officer/NCO is telling you.
3. Kind of a support group for people that need to get things off their chest due to family members being deployed and also people that have already signed up and possibly facing deployment
4. Questions concerning anything to do with the military.
5. Flaming ( I might as well add this one, I know they are coming.)


1. With high graduation growing nearer many young ladies and gentlemen might be nearing a huge decision as to whether or not they should join the military. Maybe you want some advice as to which branch to serve.

2. Maybe you want to clarify some stuff your recruiters have told you, (not that they would lie to you :rolleyes:) From searching the threads I have noticed there are many people here that are vets; why not take advantage of their experience. Although some may not agree I feel that it is our obligation to help people understand what they may be getting into. So I ask that the other Vets and people such as Megabyte (seen he was going officer in marines) who has experience to help me when answering these questions as I know that I do not have all the right answers.

3. Deployments and deployments of family members can be stressful to both parties this thread is also for everyone to speak their worries in search of some support or reassurance that their family is fine.

4. Questions about the military, such as what type of job should you go for. What do those jobs entail? For example having trouble deciding to go communications, engineer or combat arms.

5. Finally Flaming, I know it’s going to happen. Some of the TAO Vets are going to say I am wrong for doing this. If that is the case then I apologize, not for the idea of doing it but because maybe I should have bumped up about 5 different threads.

As I have said before I will not have all the right answers but rest assured if I don't know the answers and nobody else seems to, I will make every effort to find the answer to the question.

Since, I have been adding pictures on here, I thought it would be nice to get other people to add pictures of themselves, family and friends of a military nature. So please feel free to add those in here if you like, kind of like the Wal-Mart wall of soldiers. (forget what it's actually called.)

[VAMP7]

I was thinkin of joinin the Military but it requires a High School Degree >_<.
This is just one of the ways The Man is tryen to keep us down.

[Teacher]

I was thinkin of joinin the Military but it requires a High School Degree >_<.
This is just one of the ways The Man is tryen to keep us down.

Depending on what branch and what job your going for, they also accept GED's.

[Zander]

I was thinkin of joinin the Military but it requires a High School Degree >_<.
This is just one of the ways The Man is tryen to keep us down.
you mean by trying to make sure we have at least some education?:huh:

[Megabyte]

I was curious on this since I have a few friends interested.

I'm in the Marine's officer training program for college students, where basically they train me while I'm in school (summer, holidays, etc). Once I get my degree I'll enter active service as a 2'nd Lt.

However, I know several people who are looking into enlistment right now (i.e. college undergrad students, but looking to enter service soon). Its sorta a blank spot for me as I'm really not up on the recruitment programs or enlistment services offered (outside of the setup I myself am going through), so I can't really help them out aside from giving them a recruiting officer's contact info.

Any info you have on Marine elistment would be appreciated.

[Teacher]

Ok, I do have a couple contacts that I can get a hold of and see what kind of tips they can give me. As i'm not sure how the marines work, if they do get a choice of job, what type of jobs are they looking at?

[Megabyte]

that's a good question...

[HorNeT]

Military needs to be moved to the "Invisble Children" thread, to help the children.

[Teacher]

lol, I want to thank you Hornet, your thread is what got me thinking about this.

[TTitan44]

After I graduate HS, I plan to join the Marines and become part of the Infintry.

[gryph89]

Same Titan, I was thinking about goin to the Marines, however, I heard from the recruiting officers that they lock you down for four years, where as the army itself has a wider range of jobs, but only minimun of two years.

Either that, or next year not sure it is nationwide or not, but something called the CHIV (I think thats what it is) program, whereas you leave HS your senior year, and get training in the job you want from the army for one year, they train you in it, then you go back to highschool the nexy year, and finish your senior year.

[TTitan44]

I'm planning to enlist for proably 5 years then go to college and become a teacher for U.S. History at teach at my HS and coach football.

heres some rep gryph89

[gryph89]

I'm planning to enlist for proably 5 years then go to college and become a teacher for U.S. History at teach at my HS and coach football.

heres some rep gryph89

wow, that is literally like an exact clone of my history teacher, he did five military, teaches US 2, and is my varsity football coach lol

[Teacher]

where as the army itself has a wider range of jobs, but only minimun of two years.


This is true in most cases, depending on the job you are looking for, you may have to do four years. The reason this would be is some jobs have their AIT
(Advanced Individual Training) that can last up to 24 months alone. Therefore they expect you to do a couple years more after you get out of training.

[Doctor Love]

I'm in JROTC at my military school. Not by choice either. My school is sponsered by the Air Force.


Shit happens when you get into to much trouble.

On a side note: This is one of the few posts I've seen in a long time that are complete with proper grammar, spelling (for the most part), and everything else required that should be required to prove you aren't a complete DIPSHIT. More than half of our veterans don't even use proper grammar or spelling, it's rather annoying.

[HorNeT]

u.s.a.f.a.

[Teacher]

lol, thanks. I would guess I put about an hour into it to make sure it made sense. I have a tendency to type faster than I think and I end up making a bunch of stupid mistakes.

Quick question: I was wondering if anyone else heard that the Air Force was trying to purchase the Cable Guy's saying "Getter Done" so they could use it exclusively in the Air Force. He in turn gave them permission but didn't want any money and didn't want to make it so that only the Air Force could use it. I just thought this sounded interesting and amusing to a point. I can't imagine talking on the radio to a commander and hearing them tell me to "getter done".

[|ReNeGaDe|]

Teacher , your a genious.

[Doctor Love]

Teacher , your a genious.
you're*

If you're going to compliment someone, do it right.

[ReTodd]

you're*

If you're going to compliment someone, do it right.

complement*

If you're going to criticize grammar, make sure to use spell check:p

[Teacher]

Teacher , your a genious.

Thank you for the complement but I don't consider this a "genius" thread. I'm not doing anything that hasn't been done already; I'm just restarting it and trying to combine every thread that has been made previously. After looking in the history I noticed a lot about people here in TAO. I never realized how many people were vets or or high school graduates looking into the service. I know when I joined the only advice someone gave me was "Don't sign anything" Whoops :rolleyes: and "never believe your recruiter"
Whoops again :mad: I want to be able to get the vets together to help people who are considering joining. There are many perks to joining, but I'm not going to say there aren't a lot of drawbacks or sacrifices one may endure

[gryph89]

I want to be able to get the vets together to help people who are considering joining. There are many perks to joining, but I'm not going to say there aren't a lot of drawbacks or sacrifices one may endure

I'm still contemplating (sp?) on joining or not. I originally was thinking into the Marines, however, Army itself seems like something acceptable I can deal with. Mainly my only reason being is that if I DO in fact go to college, I dont want to be twenty-two hopping in there all perky...I'll feel kind of weird.
It's more or less an option that I decided to "Play by ear" so to speak. I'll see what comes up at the time, and cross that bridge when I get to it. But, indeed, it is a good thread.

[boogieman]

i know i really don't want to join the military, but am thinking about counterterrorism or computer forensics with either the ncis or fbi. you have any info as to what would be a good way to go about that?

[gryph89]

i know i really don't want to join the military, but am thinking about counterterrorism or computer forensics with either the ncis or fbi. you have any info as to what would be a good way to go about that?

Like some splinter cell stuff :*ph34r2:

[Teacher]

I'm still contemplating (sp?) on joining or not. I originally was thinking into the Marines, however, Army itself seems like something acceptable I can deal with. Mainly my only reason being is that if I DO in fact go to college, I dont want to be twenty-two hopping in there all perky...I'll feel kind of weird.
It's more or less an option that I decided to "Play by ear" so to speak. I'll see what comes up at the time, and cross that bridge when I get to it. But, indeed, it is a good thread.


Ok, do you have any idea what you plan on doing as a career? This might also help you make a decision on how you should go about achieving your goals. College is a good idea, and if you want to do both, then there are different ways of going about that also. You can go to college first, by doing this you open up many doors within the military for example you gain the ability to join as an officer, if you choose to join enlisted then more than likely you would be joined as a E-4 Specialist, this would make more money. There are drawbacks to both choices.

If you join military first, then depending on your job, you have the ability to go to college during your enlistment, and the army "only one I know for sure" will pay up to 75% of your tuition. You also gain the ability to get a college fund and use the MGI Bill. The college fund depends on job you choose and length of time, the MGI Bill is 36 months of payments, (normally after you get out) and if you’re going to school full time you receive approximately $990.00/month.

[gryph89]

Ok, do you have any idea what you plan on doing as a career? This might also help you make a decision on how you should go about achieving your goals. College is a good idea, and if you want to do both, then there are different ways of going about that also. You can go to college first, by doing this you open up many doors within the military for example you gain the ability to join as an officer, if you choose to join enlisted then more than likely you would be joined as a E-4 Specialist, this would make more money. There are drawbacks to both choices.

If you join military first, then depending on your job, you have the ability to go to college during your enlistment, and the army "only one I know for sure" will pay up to 75% of your tuition. You also gain the ability to get a college fund and use the MGI Bill. The college fund depends on job you choose and length of time, the MGI Bill is 36 months of payments, (normally after you get out) and if you’re going to school full time you receive approximately $990.00/month.

Personally, I was just going to go in normally, as a regualr private in the long run. However, I was always good when it came to Oxy/Acetylene, Arch, and Mig welding, I was the only kid in my classes that actually finished the whole class course by mid march. So I might look into that for the time being, but like I said, I'm kinda playing it all by ear for a shart *bad typo -.- meant "short"* while, and see what comes up when it does.

[Teacher]

Ok, then you would want to look into the maintenance area of the military. This is a good choice, as you can use what you learn to get a job once you leave the military although I'm not sure but I believe you have to be licensed to weld? You would have 8 weeks of training and I believe welders are another 10 weeks after that for training. I know they teach you all the different types of welding. Hope this helps.

[gryph89]

Ok, then you would want to look into the maintenance area of the military. This is a good choice, as you can use what you learn to get a job once you leave the military although I'm not sure but I believe you have to be licensed to weld? You would have 8 weeks of training and I believe welders are another 10 weeks after that for training. I know they teach you all the different types of welding. Hope this helps.

No, I have no license, but I have the certificates pending that I indeed graduated those classes. But you indeed helped out far more than I could of relized, and for that you have my thanks. And a rep :P

[Elentari]

complement*

If you're going to criticize grammar, make sure to use spell check:p


Actually, by definition, to complement would be the act of completing something, or bringing it to perfection. To compliment would be 'an expression or act of courtesy or praise' (minus junk about verbs/nouns... not really necessary for my point).

Before you go all anal retentive on someone, be sure to check that you are in fact the correct one. I'm sorry, I'm not this mean normally. Being sick is bad for meee.

(Sorry to hijack your thread Teacher :x)

[uniquinous]

It's ok Ele, everyone knows you are like a lieutenant commander or something, right?

[Elentari]

Nope, I am a Colonel Admiral ^_^.

/me scoots out of thread

[Teacher]

Nope, I am a Colonel Admiral ^_^.

/me scoots out of thread


LOL, that is a new one, damn rank has changed in the last couple years. :eek:

[Teacher]

i know i really don't want to join the military, but am thinking about counterterrorism or computer forensics with either the ncis or fbi. you have any info as to what would be a good way to go about that?


There is actually a degree that I believe is called criminal science, mostly dealing with computer fraud and another that deals with forensics I can't remember the names of either college but next time I see them on TV I will jot it down and let you know.
As for the counterterroism I have no idea, In order to get into the FBI you well need to have some sort of degree I would recommend some form of legal degree, but it doesn't have to be.

[TTitan44]

During my senior year at my HS, we are getting a JROTC program. But from what I hear it will be the navy.:(

[Teacher]

what branch were you hoping for?

[TTitan44]

The United States Marine Corps.

[Teacher]

Awesome, any idea what type of job you want?

[TTitan44]

Infintry, because that gives me the best chance of going over to the Middle East and fighting. My recruitment officer was part of the Infintry and was in Iraq for I think a year or two.

[Teacher]

That is dangerous choice. Also you may want to think about what you want to do when you get out of the service. I didn't do that and now I have over 6 years experience in a field that nobody has a use for.

Edit: I have been unable to get ahold of my contacts to answer Megabytes question. Since you have already talked to a marine recruiter it's possible you can answer it.

[TTitan44]

Using the G.I. Bill to get my college degree in teaching. I want to teach U.S. History at my HS.

[Teacher]

Oh that's right, I'm sorry forgot I read that earlier in the post.

[kegsworth]

Infantry = Bullet Sponge

It's a good goal, and no-less honorable, but your putting yourself in the thick of it. You can get the same type of MOS, without the same risk.

Then again, risk is part of the equation.

:)

[boogieman]

thanks teach.
when i said counterterrorism, i really meant in the sense that i would be a professional hacker and get terrorist info from their computers... and the forensics part was about going into computers and pulling up all the deleted history and files and such... so i can convict/prove innocent people on trial for stuff... like the linniman case. either that or become an air force pilot. :D that's always been one of the things that i know i would love to do. i just don't know what all it entails as far as a degree or specialization. and is there also a OCS like the marine corps? that would be my priority is to become an officer before going into active duty... and the only thing that would turn me off about the military in general is the deployments. i don't know if i would want to leave my wife and children (if i do in fact end up having any while in the active duty...) for an extended period of time, even though air force deployments are shorter than others. but that's sort of what i'm leaning towards as far as a career.
There is actually a degree that I believe is called criminal science, mostly dealing with computer fraud and another that deals with forensics I can't remember the names of either college but next time I see them on TV I will jot it down and let you know.
As for the counterterroism I have no idea, In order to get into the FBI you well need to have some sort of degree I would recommend some form of legal degree, but it doesn't have to be.

[TTitan44]

Infantry = Bullet Sponge

It's a good goal, and no-less honorable, but your putting yourself in the thick of it. You can get the same type of MOS, without the same risk.

Then again, risk is part of the equation.

:)

Marines are bullet sponges. They train you to be part of the eilte. And what's the part of joining and not going and fighting? At least, thats what I think.

[Teacher]

for an extended period of time, even though air force deployments are shorter than others. but that's sort of what i'm leaning towards as far as a career.


You know when I went to MEPS i still had a choice as to what branch I went to. I looked around, and the place was dead except for the army room, it had a line of about 20. Dummy me decided to follow the group rather than use my head. Out of all the services, I would highly recommend the Air Force, from what I have heard and seen, they take the best care of you. The deployments are nothing like the marine's or the army's and most of the time when they are deployed their camp is normally in a hotel near their duty station. Nothing like sleeping in the desert in California to be awoke by a damn earthquake only to hear that the Air Force personnel who were about 150 miles away didn't even feel it.
But I have to admit watching a bunch of people screaming and panicking over an earthquake in the desert was funny as hell to watch. I actually seen people run INTO buildings thinking they would be safer.

[Teacher]

Marines are bullet sponges. They train you to be part of the eilte. And what's the part of joining and not going and fighting? At least, thats what I think.


I see your point and although I agreed with Kegs I didn't know how to say it and not sound like I was insulting your choice.
There are many different MOS's that you can get into and not be a "bullet sponge" I know an army infantry lifespan I believe is like 37 seconds during a battle, I can only imgaine what the marines lifespan is since they are normally sent first.
Your choice is an honorable one, but it also sounds like a suicide mission. Go armor crewman, less walking and you have a shield.

[TTitan44]

I see your point and although I agreed with Kegs I didn't know how to say it and not sound like I was insulting your choice.
There are many different MOS's that you can get into and not be a "bullet sponge" I know an army infantry lifespan I believe is like 37 seconds during a battle, I can only imgaine what the marines lifespan is since they are normally sent first.
Your choice is an honorable one, but it also sounds like a suicide mission. Go armor crewman, less walking and you have a shield.

But since I'm only a sophmore right now, the fighting over there might slow down and but I hope there is still some when I finish basic and then other training.

but take some +rep man!

[Teacher]

But since I'm only a sophmore right now, the fighting over there might slow down and but I hope there is still some when I finish basic and then other training.

but take some +rep man!


You are only a sophmore and you're already talking to a recruiter? Please tell me you went to him and he isn't the one that went to you. Thanks for the Rep.

[TTitan44]

Dont worry, I talked to my conserlor and asked to meet with a recruiter. He's pretty cool. I meet with him like once a month.

[Teacher]

Dont worry, I talked to my conserlor and asked to meet with a recruiter. He's pretty cool. I meet with him like once a month.

Oh ok, I thought the marines were getting really desperate. Btw were you able to answer any of Megabytes questions on the first page?

[TTitan44]

I was curious on this since I have a few friends interested.

I'm in the Marine's officer training program for college students, where basically they train me while I'm in school (summer, holidays, etc). Once I get my degree I'll enter active service as a 2'nd Lt.

However, I know several people who are looking into enlistment right now (i.e. college undergrad students, but looking to enter service soon). Its sorta a blank spot for me as I'm really not up on the recruitment programs or enlistment services offered (outside of the setup I myself am going through), so I can't really help them out aside from giving them a recruiting officer's contact info.

Any info you have on Marine elistment would be appreciated.

Mega if u got any ?'s PM me and I'll be more than happy to do my best to answer them!

[Memnarch]

I have a number of friends in the service. Some joined the Marine Corp and others joined the Navy and the Army. Two of the three that joined the Marines are now deceased and the ones in the other services are doing fine except one guy died in service for the Army (He was infantry). I admire the people in the service for their courage and bravery in any branch.

[TTitan44]

I have a number of friends in the service. Some joined the Marine Corp and others joined the Navy and the Army. Two of the three that joined the Marines are now deceased and the ones in the other services are doing fine except one guy died in service for the Army (He was infantry). I admire the people in the service for their courage and bravery in any branch.

Sorry to hear about ur friends Mem!

[Teacher]

I have a number of friends in the service. Some joined the Marine Corp and others joined the Navy and the Army. Two of the three that joined the Marines are now deceased and the ones in the other services are doing fine except one guy died in service for the Army (He was infantry). I admire the people in the service for their courage and bravery in any branch.

My condolences Memnarch:(

[Memnarch]

My condolences Memnarch:(

Thank you. Enough time has passed so its not as bad now. It always hurts to lose friends. War is hard on everyone, but the people in the service have to accept the fact that they may die when they join. It is especially tough on the familys of the deceased. I appreciate the condolences Teacher, but they should really be passed on to the loved ones of those that have passed.

[Teacher]

Thank you. Enough time has passed so its not as bad now. It always hurts to lose friends. War is hard on everyone, but the people in the service have to accept the fact that they may die when they join. It is especially tough on the familys of the deceased. I appreciate the condolences Teacher, but they should really be passed on to the loved ones of those that have passed.

Your right, my condelences to their family also. I know how you feel, I currently have a brother-in-law over in Iraq now, although he is in supply so I'm not as worried about him. I have also losts someone close to me over in this war. It was a young man that was one of my subordinates. I do feel somewhat repsonsible because it was my job to train him, but on the other hand I trained him to be a tank driver, the army in their infinite wisdom took my old company off tanks and put them in Hummers and turned them into an infantry unit. 4 weeks of speradic infantry training isn't enough. But stuff happens and all you can do is keep moving forward.

[the bird]

right now i'm in navy jrotc in my high school. i'm mpo of delta platoon which basicly means i'm a leader. if i was to join the amry right after high school then i will be a sgt. if i went to collage then i will be a 2nd lt just like megabyte. we have this one song in rotc that i think is a bit funny. here it is

we're not the amry, the back packing army.
we're not marines, they don't even look clean.
we're not the coast guard, the puddle pirate coast guard.
we're not the air force, the low flying air force.
we are the navy, the world finest navy.

[Teacher]

right now i'm in navy jrotc in my high school. i'm mpo of delta platoon which basicly means i'm a leader. if i was to join the amry right after high school then i will be a sgt. if i went to collage then i will be a 2nd lt just like megabyte. we have this one song in rotc that i think is a bit funny. here it is

Are you positive you would be a seargent? The reason I'm asking is because when I got out the most a JROTC would give you is SPC E-4. E-5 and above have to be approved by congress, thus you have to have a specific amount of promotion points, pass a board, then pass a coarse called PLDC (Primary Leadership Development Coarse). I suppose with this war they might be dropping the standards some. If that is the case and you decide to go enlisted I wish you all the luck, and don't make the same mistake I have seen in the past with JROTC students.They tend to think they know everything, when in fact they are great with booksmarts but still do not have enough experience in the real army. Personally, I think that all officers should have to do a minimum of three years as enlisted prior to promotion to officer, but that is something I never see happening. :dry:

[the bird]

thats what the army rec said to us. he said if u have 3-4 of rotc then u can become an or e-4 right after u grad from boot camp and for 2 years u should be an e-3 . then he also said if u were a like cheif in change of your platoon in boot for all 6 months of boot camp and went though all 4 years of rotc then u have a chance to become an e-5. i don't know the amry ranks that good and which e's match up with each rank. i know all the navy ones since i'm in navy rotc. right now i'm an e-6 as a 2nd year cadet which is really good. i have the highest rank as a ns-2 cadet. i wasn't even surpused to get advanced untill the end of the 2nd year but since i do so much for the unit as far as unit serivce, leadership service and community service, me being on drill team, pt team, color guard team, and just doing ever thing right. at the staff meeting they said only ns-1 was going to get advanced but then he called me up and he had a long talk about why i was getting advanced to the paygrade of e-6.

[the bird]

btw i do agree with the officer waiting 3 years. i know a staff sgt that would be a better officer then this capt i know. the only big difference is an officer is u went though a 4 year collage and enlisted u don't. the only way to become an officer if u don't go to collage is going though the enlisted ranks then become a warrent officer.

[Teacher]

Ok, then what they mean is you might get enlisted with a paygrade of E-4 SPC then after the min. time in grade which I believe it's 12 months with referral, then you can become E-5 Seargent.

They pay you in JROTC? Damn I went to the wrong school. :mad:

The problems with a lot of officers (not all) is that they have this superiority complex because they went to college and their officers. They take less training than enlisted in their particular MOS then they are expected to lead their squad/platoon. The officers that I have seen with the largest complex are the West Point officers. My idea of a good officer is one that is willing to get dirty, not afraid to ask questions, stand by his decision even if it is a mistake, and well get out of the way when he is hindering more than helping.

[Memnarch]

Your right, my condelences to their family also. I know how you feel.

Thank you.

I have also losts someone close to me over in this war. It was a young man that was one of my subordinates. I do feel somewhat repsonsible because it was my job to train him, but on the other hand I trained him to be a tank driver, the army in their infinite wisdom took my old company off tanks and put them in Hummers and turned them into an infantry unit. 4 weeks of speradic infantry training isn't enough. But stuff happens and all you can do is keep moving forward.

I am sorry for your loss. I didnt realize you are/were in the military, but I guess moving forward is a good philosophy in your line of work. Then again, moving forward despite obstacles or losses is always a good thing to do. I have always been one to not dwell in the past. The present and future is what is important. The past is meant to be honored and remembered.

[the bird]

noooooooooooooooooooo they don't pay us. when u use the word e-'s like e-5 and e-6 then that is called pay grade. i should have used the word grade by it self. i'm like not 100% sure about how they work it but when he stops by again i will talk to him so i know how they work things in the army. i know for a fact in the navy if u was in rotc for 4 year then u will be a petty officer 3rd class. no that is not a officer rank. a 3rd class in a e-4 not an o-1 or what ever. e = enlisted and o= officers.

[Teacher]

Thank you.



I am sorry for your loss. I didnt realize you are/were in the military, but I guess moving forward is a good philosophy in your line of work. Then again, moving forward despite obstacles or losses is always a good thing to do. I have always been one to not dwell in the past. The present and future is what is important. The past is meant to be honored and remembered.

I was stationed in Fort Hood, Tx for 6 years. I'm no longer in I got out in 2002 as an E-5P (promotable) when I was faced with the choice of army career or wife and kids :dry:

When I got out I was the company clerk, weapons NCO, TOC NCO, and on the side I did my real job which was Tank Commander and squad leader.

The Bird: Ok, kind of threw me off guard there for a second. lol
Yeah i'm not very knowledgable in Navy ranks or any other branch than army for that matter. I just looked for the shiny rank and that is how I knew to salute. =p

[the bird]

i thought promotable was only for the officer ranks and advancement was for the enlisted ranks.

[Teacher]

i thought promotable was only for the officer ranks and advancement was for the enlisted ranks.

No promotable means that the officer/NCO has reached the requirements of promotion with the exception of having enough promotion points.

[the bird]

u know what i ment. promotion is for officer ranks and advancement is for enlisted ranks. maybe it is different in the army then the navy.

[Memnarch]

I was stationed in Fort Hood, Tx for 6 years. I'm no longer in I got out in 2002 as an E-5P (promotable) when I was faced with the choice of army career or wife and kids :dry:

When I got out I was the company clerk, weapons NCO, TOC NCO, and on the side I did my real job which was Tank Commander.

Thats cool. I think my uncle was a tank driver or something for the Army or National Guard. I know my dad was an Air Traffic Controller during Vietnam for the National Guard. My grandmother didnt want him going over, so my family pulled some strings (we do that a lot) and made sure they stayed. Now that I think about it, my uncle WAS in the National Guard too.

[Teacher]

u know what i ment. promotion is for officer ranks and advancement is for enlisted ranks. maybe it is different in the army then the navy.

Yeah I suppose so army only uses the word promotion except when trying to sound more politically correct.

[Teacher]

Thats cool. I think my uncle was a tank driver or something for the Army or National Guard. I know my dad was an Air Traffic Controller during Vietnam for the National Guard. My grandmother didnt want him going over, so my family pulled some strings (we do that a lot) and made sure they stayed. Now that I think about it, my uncle WAS in the National Guard too.

I can honestly say there is nothing I enjoyed more than driving a tank....well maybe shooting it, it's a toss up. :rolleyes:

[tidus #1]

i have been enlisted in the army natoinal guard for over a year now, i went through basic training in fort benning goergia last summer, i am going back this summer for ait, then i will probably be deployed shortly afterwards, feel free to ask me questions about the guard, i am a recruiters asisstant

[HorNeT]

Yeah I suppose so army only uses the word promotion except when trying to sound more politically correct.
Haha. Politically correct. Remind me of Larry the Cable Guy.

[gryph89]

i have been enlisted in the army natoinal guard for over a year now, i went through basic training in fort benning goergia last summer, i am going back this summer for ait, then i will probably be deployed shortly afterwards, feel free to ask me questions about the guard, i am a recruiters asisstant

My friend recently joined the gaurd.

Funny thing is, I never knew how many people knew/ actually were in the military, I have great respect for everyone actually posting knowledge on this in this thread, for it is sending me closely to a decision.

And afterall, Marines "First one's in, last one's out"

[TTitan44]

Marines "First one's in, last one's out"

Thats why they are the part of the few and proud.

[Teacher]

Although I hold high respect for all branches, I find it hard not to say something derogatory about marines since I was in the army and the two branches never get along.:cool:

But honestly the marines are an elite group, there basic is considered to be one of the toughest both mentally and physically. The main thing that I would have to warn everyone about is the fact of how well they take care of there soldiers. This is what I have figured out by experience and talking to people in each of the branches. This list is from worst to best when it comes to taking care of there soldiers particularly as far as health is concerned and also living conditions in the field.

1. Marines
2. Army
3. Navy
4. Air Force

Gryph, I'm glad this thread is helpful to you as far as what you choose in the future.

Tidus I thank you for the time and the offer you have made, I realized that I did make the mistake of not including the "weekend warriors" into the conversations. Please take no offense, what you guys do is more than a lot of people care to do, but as ex-active duty, you know I have to pick on you a little. :D

[HorNeT]

Why do marines and other people call the air force pansies and stuff?

I'm sorry, do you want me to fly in and give you cover?

[Teacher]

Why do marines and other people call the air force pansies and stuff?

I'm sorry, do you want me to fly in and give you cover?


LOL, the marines are trained to be hardcore soldiers, if your hurt deal with it and so on. I'm not stating that one is better than the other overall, what I'm stating is when it comes to taking care of soldiers the Air Force does the best job. It might because of what kind of missions they carry out, i'm not sure. I guess look at it this way, in the marines the leadership has little sympathy for someone with personal problems or health issues. For instance I know for a fact they still use the term "If you were supposed to have a wife, the Marines would have issued you one."
In the army I knew a guy who got in a fight on a friday night and got his nose broke. He was given motrin "the marines and army's miracle drug" and sent home with orders to return on Monday morning during regular business hours. As for the Navy and Air Force from what I have heard they are pretty close, but overall the A.F. spoils their soldiers compared to other branches.
And since Tidus is in the conversation now, the only thing I really know about N.G. and the reserves is compared to active duty, there confusing as hell.

[tidus #1]

My friend recently joined the gaurd.

Funny thing is, I never knew how many people knew/ actually were in the military, I have great respect for everyone actually posting knowledge on this in this thread, for it is sending me closely to a decision.

And afterall, Marines "First one's in, last one's out"

its a good choice gryph milatary does great things to you

[gryph89]

Funny how all these things sprung up like a week AFTER this thread came up. Belive it or not, were getting a national guard, and a marine lieutenant to come speak for us this thursday, so it should prove useful. Kinda funny though when ya think about it, cuz I already have a healthy portion of the answers to questions I wanted to ask them :P

[Teacher]

Ask the Lieutenant if he is called a "butter bar"? Just make sure you don't plan on going through him to enlists if you do ask him.

[gryph89]

Ask the Lieutenant if he is called a "butter bar"? Just make sure you don't plan on going through him to enlists if you do ask him.

"butter bar" better not be some saying in there like "you gay?" (not that there is anything wrong with that) or something like that....

[Teacher]

"butter bar" better not be some saying in there like "you gay?" (not that there is anything wrong with that) or something like that....

No it's nothing like that, in the army a 2nd LT. is called a butter bar because their rank is a shiny gold bar. Since they are new to the army and sometimes disliked they are sometimes called butter bar to insult them. I'm not sure what the rank looks like for marine officers. Depending on his rank, if it fits, you'll at least be able to say it and get away with it before you join. :p

[VAMP7]

I was thinkin of going and training to become an officer. Then go and join. for 1 reason the more money you r paid when you become an officer. But it also comes with the responibility. hhhmmmmmmm..... Have to think this one over

[Teacher]

Sorry about how long it took...

Another thing you might want to think about is Officer's have to deal with a lot more politics. Officers are expected to purchase gifts, go to certain balls to celebrate they may not even know, etc.. I kind of felt sorry for them...lol

I would recommend you get your training, try enlisted for a couple years, this well make you a great officer, because you will no both sides of the spectrum.

Edit: A year ago there was a bunch of ex or current veterans, did they all leave or just not interested in posting here?

[Teacher]

*BUMP*

Graduation is getting closer, are you signing your life away?

[ReTodd]

If someone has signed the papers to enlist and changes their mind, what are their options? Also, what are the options to leave throughout your military career? What is the best way to quit during boot camp, if you are about to be deployed etc...?

[Teacher]

If someone has signed the papers to enlist and changes their mind, what are their options? Also, what are the options to leave throughout your military career? What is the best way to quit during boot camp, if you are about to be deployed etc...?

If they signed and have not left yet, then the possibility of getting out of it is still good. Just have to do a lot of arguing and have some damn good reasons.

The options to leave throughout military career are nil. The only way to get out of service during your tour of duty is (medical, disciplinary, hardship) none of which you really want.

Quitting during bootcamp is also quite difficult, the easiest way to do it is to continueously get in trouble. You will be sent home for "Failure to adapt to military life" I do not however recommend this, it is not a speedy send home it can take a year or two, all the while you will sit in your bootcamp post and perform mulitple shitty details.

Bottom line is make sure you know what your getting into before you sign anything and once you do it, you should take responsibilities for your actions and finish out your contract.

[ReTodd]

If they signed and have not left yet, then the possibility of getting out of it is still good. Just have to do a lot of arguing and have some damn good reasons.


Any good reasons you know of other than becoming flamboyantly gay? Something easy that just about anyone could pull off would be nice.

[HorNeT]

Any good reasons you know of other than becoming flamboyantly gay? Something easy that just about anyone could pull off would be nice.
oooh! I got one!


Tell them that your eyelash hurts, you are impared for life, and you might not make it long.

[Teacher]

Any good reasons you know of other than becoming flamboyantly gay? Something easy that just about anyone could pull off would be nice.


Ok, has this person that signed raised his right hand and sworn in yet?

[Match Strike]

LOL, the marines are trained to be hardcore soldiers, if your hurt deal with it and so on. I'm not stating that one is better than the other overall, what I'm stating is when it comes to taking care of soldiers the Air Force does the best job. It might because of what kind of missions they carry out, i'm not sure. I guess look at it this way, in the marines the leadership has little sympathy for someone with personal problems or health issues. For instance I know for a fact they still use the term "If you were supposed to have a wife, the Marines would have issued you one."
In the army I knew a guy who got in a fight on a friday night and got his nose broke. He was given motrin "the marines and army's miracle drug" and sent home with orders to return on Monday morning during regular business hours. As for the Navy and Air Force from what I have heard they are pretty close, but overall the A.F. spoils their soldiers compared to other branches.
And since Tidus is in the conversation now, the only thing I really know about N.G. and the reserves is compared to active duty, there confusing as hell.
I'm by no means a military expert, but perhaps this has something to do with the reliance of the Air Force so heavily on equipment (planes). It strikes me as a branch that's about precision, and if a component isn't working properly, ythey want it fixed right so it works. This applies to mahines and humans.

Just a guess.

[Teacher]

I wasn't very explicit in what I meant. I have heard no complaints about the Air Force and very few about the Navy as far as how well they take care of their soldiers. However, I have heard numerous complaints within the other two branches.

[the bird]

If someone has signed the papers to enlist and changes their mind, what are their options? Also, what are the options to leave throughout your military career? What is the best way to quit during boot camp, if you are about to be deployed etc...?


if u are in bootcamp just fail the pft over and over again. our teacher in rotc said if u fail the pft 3 times then they will kick u out cause your not fit to be in the military.

[Teacher]

if u are in bootcamp just fail the pft over and over again. our teacher in rotc said if u fail the pft 3 times then they will kick u out cause your not fit to be in the military.


Although, this is the case what he might have failed to tell you is I have seen it take over a year to get to that point. You are humiliated because your uniform becomes these yellow sweats called the bananna suit. It means that your over-weight or an under achiever at the APFT. You then get put on a diet work out twice as much as others and when your not doing that, they don't want to waste resources training you so you end up with shitty details to preform. For example, turning over lava rocks so the sun fades the colors evenly. ( I actually had to do this for spring cleaning due to being a smartass to my supervisor):rolleyes:

[Teacher]

I was not sure if these would be welcomed in the picture thread so I thought I would post them here and move them if the community deemed applicable. It took me a while to find these pics then to get my damn scanner to work but here are a few, if there is enough interest I have more. All of these pictures were taken during my first tour of Kuwait.

Me being a ham. (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/scan.jpg)

My men and I standing in front of a Kuwaiti tank (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/scan0001.jpg)

Me feeding a block of C-4 plastic explosives to one of my guys. (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/scan0003.jpg)

No shit these are the Abu brothers. They are really brothers and for some reason both had the same name. This is in a shop in Kuwait City. (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/scan0002.jpg)

[Scorpionz]

Wow, Thats really cool.

[Arm & Hammer]

you see i really wanted to join the army. My dad was in Vietnam war and he still has all of his badges. The most imporant badge he reicived is The Purple Heart. He showed me some his guns but there not at my house their at my grandmas house locked up. The gun i liked most was the m-16. But if i go to the army i want to be Infanrty Soldier.

[speaker4thedead]

Allthough im intrested in the army i have no wishes to ever join them, I just dont fancy being shot at every day

[Teacher]

Thanks Scorp, I was hoping some would like these.

Arm & Hammer: If infantry is the way you want to go, then more power to you. That job is not easy at all and the grunts are used for the majority of details. If that is what you want to do I'm sure you would have no problem getting it.

Speaker: Not to sound like a recruiter, but there are a lot of jobs in the military that don't normally require you to get shot at. Hell, I always wondered what it would be like to be in the Army band. I can see it now:

Person: "What do you do in the Army?", Me: "I play the flute." :p

At any rate, here are a couple more from my Kuwait rotation, but is a little bit of the downside to being there. I'm enjoying sharing these so I'll post more if I see interest.

This is downtown Kuwait City by the Gulf. The current temp. this day was 184 degrees F. with the Heat Index (Humidity added) (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/Hotashell.jpg) Notice the Pepsi and 7UP can in this pic.

This is what happens when our Platoon drunk uses Kuwait as a detox. (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/SPCNew.jpg)

This is the closest thing to beer out there (legally) (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/budweiser.jpg)

Me being a ham. (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/scan.jpg)

My men and I standing in front of a Kuwaiti tank (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/scan0001.jpg)

Me feeding a block of C-4 plastic explosives to one of my guys. (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/scan0003.jpg)

No shit these are the Abu brothers. They are really brothers and for some reason both had the same name. This is in a shop in Kuwait City. (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/scan0002.jpg)

Pic of me and my Plt. SGT. (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/tbgets/T-64.jpg)

[Scorpionz]

TeeHee.

Platoon drunk. I like that. :)

Malt is the closest thing to beer? ( I wouldn't want to try the illegal stuff :bad: )

[gryph89]

Yeah we had 2 NAVY officers one first class, and another second come into our History class on Friday for Memorial Day, it was pretty educational, but I keep getting the feeling of him sending in two Marines, NAVY, and an Air Force guy...He really wants us to join -.-

[Teacher]

Yeah, the services feel they are currently hurting for manpower, yet they close down a bunch of bases to save on money. That did not go over well with the military community or the community that those bases supported.

That picture of the Budweiser label is a Non-Alcoholic Budweiser. It has the Arabic writing on the label also. I kept it because I have never seen that type of queer beer here. *one more word and I could call that a tongue twister*

[Jeffery]

What does the number of bases have to do with the manpower? The idea on closing the bases was to consolidate the manpower, so that the forces you do have are able to be trained, recruited, equipped and deployed in a more efficient manner.

They are shrinking the number of bases, not the number of people in the military. Manpower and consolidation are completely seperate issues.

And the majority of the people against the base closing are simply against it for local and state economics, and has nothing to do with concern for the current state of the military. Towns and states are just afraid of losing the money that bases pump into the local economy by being there.

With people complaining about the current military expenditures all the time, you think people would support a way to make the military more efficient, instead of whining about it.

[Teacher]

What does the number of bases have to do with the manpower? The idea on closing the bases was to consolidate the manpower, so that the forces you do have are able to be trained, recruited, equipped and deployed in a more efficient manner.

They are shrinking the number of bases, not the number of people in the military. Manpower and consolidation are completely seperate issues.

And the majority of the people against the base closing are simply against it for local and state economics, and has nothing to do with concern for the current state of the military. Towns and states are just afraid of losing the money that bases pump into the local economy by being there.

With people complaining about the current military expenditures all the time, you think people would support a way to make the military more efficient, instead of whining about it.

I think we have a wire crossed somewhere. My statement was that the military is hurting for people; hence they are stepping up the recruitments. I never made a statement saying they were shrinking the military.

I personally, did not feel any affect to the bases closing, my comment is what I understood from other people. Most people that I talked to were mainly pissed about the fact their post being closed and having to be transferred. Whether it was just because it was a post they liked or because it happened to be one close to home. Either way they are in the military not much you can do about it but deal with it. As for the local and state I fully agree with you, I did not state the reason and that was my fault.

Prior to making assumptions, you may want to consider verifying. But since you assume that I was whining about it, then I might as well speak my peace about it.
My unit alone wasted a shit-load of money at the end of every fiscal year to ensure the unit's budget would not get cut the following year. They would order replacement parts that was not in need of replacement, plan field exercises that lasted 14 days but only did approximately 5 days of training, the rest was Repetitive Preventive Maintenance, or sitting on our ass playing spades and bones. There were times that we would go out and spend a few days firing our weapons and/or tanks, of course this sounds like it would be considered training and at some times it was. Other times, it was a good time for the Higher Brass to bring in "VIP's" to shoot our tanks so they could get their rocks off.
One year I was personally responsible for spending a little over $225,000.00 on vehicle and personal weapon parts. Most of which did not need to be changed out, but once again we had to spend the current fiscal year's budget.

[Jeffery]

My own apologies, I was not so much directing the rant AT you, as past you at "people" who are the ones complaining. (you know, the ones you mentioned)

And yeah, I am well aware of how the budgeting works. Unfortunately we deal with a government that is willing to spend huge amounts of money on things that are not needed, and yet somehow can't find the time or money to equip soldiers at a time of need.

A great example (here comes an Iraq complaint) is that of the tank crews during the start of the Iraq invasion. It was decided that each tank crew would be issued side arms, one per man, and then ONE M-16 per tank.

Of course, the invasion quickly turned into doing things like street patrol. And the tank crews simply had no weaponry. Of course, soldiers are ever clever in scavanging, so many turned to collecting and using AK-74's and AK-47's taken off the enemy.

The US military response was to say that "officially" this was not allowed, and soldiers must wait to be issued their own M-16. Of course, the field commanders just looked the other way, as they prefered their men be armed as needed, as opposed to waiting for Washington to get the foot out of their ass.

[Teacher]

Lol, you know our platoon had a huge debate over this same thing when we were sitting in Kuwait. We were all armed with Beretta 9mm; and the tank itself had one M16, 2 M240 machine guns 7.62mm, 50 cal. MG and of course the 120mm. The shitty part about this was, as they were preaching to us about keeping our eyes open and staying alert, the failed to give us any ammunition.

After the second month, received blank rounds for all the tank weapons, and regular rounds for our sidearms, but they had to be in the magazine, taped up, then place in our ammo pouch, and that had to be taped up also. Damn I was so pissed off.

I apologize also, I guess I misconstrued your comments.

Oh yeah, I forgot to also complain about the fact that when my unit left for Iraq in 2004, the whole Battalion was taken off of tanks and placed in Humvees(never could spell that word). They received 3 weeks of infantry training and urban warfare, which is not much at all and then shipped over.

[Entourage]

From the halls of Montezuma.
To the shores of Tripoli,
We fight our country's battles
In air, on land, and sea.
First to fight for right and freedom,
And to keep our honor clean,
We are pround to claim the title
Of UNITED STATES MARINE!

Our flags unfurled to every breeze
From dawn to setting sun;
We have fought in every clime and place
Where we could take a gun.
In the snow of far-off northern lands
And in sunny tropic scenes,
You will find us always on the job
The UNITED STATES MARINES!

Here's health to you and to our Corps
Which we are proud to serve;
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve.
If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heavens scenes,
They will find the streets are guarded
By UNITED STATES MARINES!

OORAH!


May god protect those over seas.

Joe Agnew - USMC
Karen Costello - USMC
Jon Deveney - USMC
Andrew Bruce - USMC
Zack Jennings - USMC


I'll join you soon my friends. Until then stay safe and always remember SEMPER FI!

[†Nuke'em†]

Lol, you know our platoon had a huge debate over this same thing when we were sitting in Kuwait. We were all armed with Beretta 9mm; and the tank itself had one M16, 2 M240 machine guns 7.62mm, 50 cal. MG and of course the 120mm. The shitty part about this was, as they were preaching to us about keeping our eyes open and staying alert, the failed to give us any ammunition.

After the second month, received blank rounds for all the tank weapons, and regular rounds for our sidearms, but they had to be in the magazine, taped up, then place in our ammo pouch, and that had to be taped up also. Damn I was so pissed off.

I apologize also, I guess I misconstrued your comments.

Oh yeah, I forgot to also complain about the fact that when my unit left for Iraq in 2004, the whole Battalion was taken off of tanks and placed in Humvees(never could spell that word). They received 3 weeks of infantry training and urban warfare, which is not much at all and then shipped over.

If I join I want to go into the Tank Corp. I love the Abrams.

But anyway, were you taken out of tanks before or after the actual army on army war?

[Daemon Bloodmaw]

I have been medically disqualified from attending the USAFA because my dumbass doctor looked at me when I said I had trouble breathing during football as a sophomore and went, "You must have asthma! Here, take this!" Something tells me I was just out of shape however & unaccustomed to pads, seeing as how I usually have no problems.

Jackass. Should've just lied on the medical history sheet but I figured they'd have some way of knowing :(

I'm contesting it but it's still a kick in the balls.

[Drive for Speed]

That sucks Daemon Bloodmaw.

[†Nuke'em†]

I have been medically disqualified from attending the USAFA because my dumbass doctor looked at me when I said I had trouble breathing during football as a sophomore and went, "You must have asthma! Here, take this!" Something tells me I was just out of shape however & unaccustomed to pads, seeing as how I usually have no problems.

Jackass. Should've just lied on the medical history sheet but I figured they'd have some way of knowing :(

I'm contesting it but it's still a kick in the balls.

Dude, that bits. I have asthma, and I am hoping to grow out of it, SOON. But I don't know how lucky I might be.

[AlabamaBoy]

*raises torch and pitchfork* "we are gonna put a wah on terra, and all da evil doers....."

I say, better safe than sorry, even though they didnt go about the war properly.

*kills a buck*
*skins it*
*cleans it*
*strips meat & salts*
*dries*
*saves for later*

[young cha]

if not not mistaken you can get your training done in some jobs when u are 14-15 io think in the summer my uncle now who was a sgt. is giving me training for the marines and listing it so i get some credit when i join but im not joining the camp cuz i have a eating disorder so im waiting till it passes and when you are done you go once a month for training after college and get paid 450-500 a month as an officer and as you increase rank you can go more or if you dont have a wife or kids u can move around for more money sorry for cutting off topic thought it might help some take some rep

[Teacher]

If I join I want to go into the Tank Corp. I love the Abrams.

But anyway, were you taken out of tanks before or after the actual army on army war?

I remained on tanks until I got out of the service in 2002. I have received additional information since this last post. What actually is happening, is tankers will do their rounds in the tanks on one day and then are transferred into hummers. From what I am understanding it mainly depends on what terrain or duties their mission calls for.

Currently, they are using the M1A3 Sep tank, which I am surprised is doing so well in that region, but I have heard it is an outstanding tank. Still, most prefer the M1A1 tank over all of them.


Blood-

Is it possible to get retested from a private physician and take that paperwork back to MEPPS?

[Daemon Bloodmaw]

I've applied for a medical waiver so we'll see.

I plan on taking a lung test because I'm in awesome shape.

[Teacher]

It is unfortunate that you have to go through it all. If they did not explain why it is because if they admit you and later you develop problems that stem from asthema then the government is responsible for paying you disability payments for the rest of your life. Hope everything works out in the end and good luck.

[Daemon Bloodmaw]

Oh, I understand why it'd be an issue. High-altitude training in Colorado Springs with asthma would be suicide.

[The Coder]

Dude.
The recruiters were in my school today...

I cussed them out...

Yet didn't get in trouble (I only put this in because I'm on shaky ground)

[Teacher]

Coder,

Just out of curiosity, why did you cuss them out? I used to just ask them to show me some "marching steps" and watch all the kids laugh at them when they did it.

[Teacher]

So I finally decide to go back into the Army. I manage to keep the same rank I had when I got out. (Not sure if I agree with that). However, they won't let me back into my old job and now must train for another job. /rant

Anyhow, my questions are, can anyone tell me anything about the area around Fort Gordon, Georgia?

And is there anyone out there that is familiar with AIT courses or know someone who has recently went to AIT. (Course that trains someone for their particular job). I'm curious to what I have to expect since I never attended AIT.

[pils]

Any information on the marines would be appreciated (I'm gonna look through the thread after this, and yeah I realize I probably should reverse the order.. but eh...)

All I have really found out is what my dad has told me.... Which is the Navy and Air force have the best schooling, but the marines kinda suck for that. My dad is in Iraq right now, and most of my family is in the Marines, except one uncle is in the army.
Three members of my family are in Iraq right now, including my dad. And I think I've decided that I want to join.

But when ever I see recruiters at my school, I never really want to talk to them. I think its because a lot of kids I hate are always around them, and have already talked to them, and are like best buds with them... So it would be kinda weird.
But yeah, I took the ASVAB this year, but have yet to get my results back. I'm kinda anxious to see how I did, because I will be really surprised if I did well... I think I got like every single question wrong in the auto/tools part... And I know I didn't do to well in the arithmatic...

[Jeffery]

Become a Marine Chef. They are sending some of them to the CIA school for training even.

[pils]

Seriously? I mean I guess you could make a pretty big fool of me right now, because I don't know shit about any of that. But that sounds kinda interesting... Although I don't think it would be something I would persue.

[Teacher]

what are you interested in doing during your service and when you get out?

[pils]

I suppose I ought to be embarrased, but I really don't know. I guess thats why I came here... What kinda options would a high school graduate have?

[gryph89]

Any information on the marines would be appreciated (I'm gonna look through the thread after this, and yeah I realize I probably should reverse the order.. but eh...)

All I have really found out is what my dad has told me.... Which is the Navy and Air force have the best schooling, but the marines kinda suck for that. My dad is in Iraq right now, and most of my family is in the Marines, except one uncle is in the army.
Three members of my family are in Iraq right now, including my dad. And I think I've decided that I want to join.

But when ever I see recruiters at my school, I never really want to talk to them. I think its because a lot of kids I hate are always around them, and have already talked to them, and are like best buds with them... So it would be kinda weird.
But yeah, I took the ASVAB this year, but have yet to get my results back. I'm kinda anxious to see how I did, because I will be really surprised if I did well... I think I got like every single question wrong in the auto/tools part... And I know I didn't do to well in the arithmatic...

If you took the ASVAB and put your phone number on there, I garuntee you they'll bother the shit out of you for the next year. Like they did me.

[Smilez]

Hey, i'm trying to get into the Air Force Academy i was wondering if anyone knew what level of gpa. and etc. that i would need to get in.

[gryph89]

Hey, i'm trying to get into the Air Force Academy i was wondering if anyone knew what level of gpa. and etc. that i would need to get in.

My friend Keith goes there. He nailed 85's throughout highschool, he got in no problem.

[pils]

85's?

[Smilez]

What was his act / sat score?

[gryph89]

85's?


In Jersey we don't go by the Letter Grade System.

What was his act / sat score?

I'll see if I can get in touch with him and ask.

[Teacher]

I suppose I ought to be embarrased, but I really don't know. I guess thats why I came here... What kinda options would a high school graduate have?

I am not well versed in the Marines, but a great deal of your job options in the Army deals with your ASVAB score. I would think that the Marines would be somewhat the same deal. If you can get ahold of Megabyte, he knows a great deal more about the Marines than I do.

However, the best advice I can give is to try to do something that will help you once you get out of the service. For example, I was a tanker my first time in. Once I got out, that really was not much of a job skill that I could put to use as a civilian.

[pils]

Does anyone know if the military has any CADD (computer aided drafting/design) based jobs or applications? Because right now that is my main focus in high school/college courses (which I take though high school.)
And I have gotten pretty good at it... I am basically at the point now where I know all there is to know about the program AutoCad, and now I'm just in solid works classes, and other classes which teach me how to apply AutoCad functions to any other CADD program.
So yeah, I think if there are any CADD routes to the military that would be pretty perfect for me.

[ThatGuy]

This thread sickens me.

[The SOB]

the marines have the most jobs that can be offered in the military. honestly, i woul chose marines over any other branch because one, they are trained much better. two, once you're done you know you'll be able to accomplish anything. three, it will be fun. although marines are the poorest branch in the military, they are still the best.

as they say, once a marine, always a marine

[Jeffery]

the marines have the most jobs that can be offered in the military. honestly, i woul chose marines over any other branch because one, they are trained much better. two, once you're done you know you'll be able to accomplish anything. three, it will be fun. although marines are the poorest branch in the military, they are still the best.

as they say, once a marine, always a marine
Of course, they also say that every time you get some random guy sniping at people with a rifle you have a former marine.

[Teacher]

Does anyone know if the military has any CADD (computer aided drafting/design) based jobs or applications? Because right now that is my main focus in high school/college courses (which I take though high school.)
And I have gotten pretty good at it... I am basically at the point now where I know all there is to know about the program AutoCad, and now I'm just in solid works classes, and other classes which teach me how to apply AutoCad functions to any other CADD program.
So yeah, I think if there are any CADD routes to the military that would be pretty perfect for me.


I have a friend that welds as her job. But apparently, because of the possibility of fabricating new parts, she was trained on CADD. To what extent I can see if I can find out for you.

Ok, That Guy, I'll bite, why does it sicken you?

[pils]

Of course, they also say that every time you get some random guy sniping at people with a rifle you have a former marine.
I giggled.

I have a friend that welds as her job. But apparently, because of the possibility of fabricating new parts, she was trained on CADD. To what extent I can see if I can find out for you.

Ok, That Guy, I'll bite, why does it sicken you?

Thanks, I would appreciate that very much.

[pils]

So I just got a call from an Army recruiter. I got an 82 on my ASVAB, and I have no idea what that means, but he said it was very good...
Hes coming over tomorrow at 5:30pm and I get the feeling that, until I decide 100% whether or not I want to join (or until they have my soul for how ever long an enlistment lasts) I am going to be getting a lot of calls and home visits... Which, in all honesty, I'm not looking forward too...

[Ol' Time]

No pils, don't join, you'd be around less.

[pils]

I know I'm awesome and everything.... But TAO is old enough for me as it is... Not sure how much longer I plan on sticking around. :p

[inked]

So I just got a call from an Army recruiter. I got an 82 on my ASVAB, and I have no idea what that means, but he said it was very good...
Hes coming over tomorrow at 5:30pm and I get the feeling that, until I decide 100% whether or not I want to join (or until they have my soul for how ever long an enlistment lasts) I am going to be getting a lot of calls and home visits... Which, in all honesty, I'm not looking forward too...

I am in the Navy.

Personally if I were you I'd join the Navy Reserves. You get to pick your job, and its guarenteed. If you sign up you do 2 years active and 4 reserve boot camp and your follow on schools count towards active. You will get somewhere around $20,000 in bonus (before tax). It isn't really hard. If you are interested I could tell you some cool jobs and give you some facts without the presure.

I don't know the other branches very well though.

[pils]

Well I definitely want to keep my options open, and I would like to hear some more. Like I said before, all I know is what my dad has told me, and thats that the navy and airforce have really good schools.
Hulky, does the navy have any CADD orientated jobs that you know of? If you don't know thats fine, I'd still be interested in any other information you could offer, in terms of jobs that I could choose.

[inked]

What does "CADD" stand for?

[pils]

Sorry. >.<
Computer Aided Drafting and Design... Sometimes its called CAD too...

[*Sanosuke*]

Hulky Is the Military.

[inked]

Like architecture and engineering stuff? Check out the Seabees (Construction Battalion):
http://navy.com/careers/enlisted/construction/

[Smilez]

Dang... any chance we have a air force tao member.....

[inked]

I am going to be stationed at an Air Force base.

eh?

[Smilez]

Well i got a letter from the swim coach asking about times and etc. I just wanted to know what type of jobs they had to offer.