First off, I know it will be tough- mentally, physically, and emotionally- and, after you read what I have to say, you may try to dissuade me from putting the effort into it. But I've been thinking and researching as much as I can about this idea, and if I were to join, Marines would be the only branch I'm interested in.
I'm 23 years old, roughly 250lbs at about 6'1", with a bachelors degree in fine art in game art and design. I took a practice ASVAV online, and apparently scored in the 90th percentile- I want to say 97 or so, though I wouldn't be surprised if it was biased or a fake one.
I know I'll need to loose that weight, and I know that my degree wont make me an officer right away, but my goal is to become an officer, preferably away from front line action.
Normally, I wouldn't mind being front line in Iraq or Afghanistan, but my parents freak out, worrying about loosing life or limb, and I'd rather make things easier for them.
What I'm looking for here is some feedback on how I can get what I'm looking for in a Marine career- I'd like to be an officer, preferably on barracks or embassy duty- and how to deal with family.
Again, I'm just spit balling here- the only commitment made has been in my mind.
EDIT- I feel dumb- misspelled Considering in the subject line...
Soldier Stories
Served in the military? Discuss your time and experiences here.
Served in the military? Discuss your time and experiences here.
Hosted by Dave Willett
Concidering joining Marines
BulletBill
Member Since: December 07, 2009
entire network: 9 Posts
KitMaker Network: 3 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 07:53 AM UTC
Whiskey6
Member Since: August 15, 2006
entire network: 408 Posts
KitMaker Network: 179 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 08:25 AM UTC
Quoted Text
First off, I know it will be tough- mentally, physically, and emotionally- and, after you read what I have to say, you may try to dissuade me from putting the effort into it. But I've been thinking and researching as much as I can about this idea, and if I were to join, Marines would be the only branch I'm interested in.
I'm 23 years old, roughly 250lbs at about 6'1", with a bachelors degree in fine art in game art and design. I took a practice ASVAV online, and apparrently scored in the 90th percentile- I want to say 97 or so.
I know I'll need to loose that weight, and I know that my degree wont make me an officer right away, but my goal is to become an officer, preferably away from front line action.
Normally, I wouldn't mind being front line in Iraq or Afghanistan, but my parents freak out, worrying about loosing life or limb, and I'd rather make things easier for them.
What I'm looking for here is some feedback on how I can get what I'm looking for in a Marine career- I'd like to be an officer, preferably on barracks or embassy duty- and how to deal with family.
Again, I'm just spit balling here- the only commitment made has been in my mind.
The following comments are a bit harsh, but they are intended to help you stay alive....and, more importantly, keep good Marines alive. As a former Marine Captain, I would recommend against your joining the Marines for the following reasons:
1. All Marines are combat Marines. If you are not willing to die for the Corps and your fellow Marines, don't join.
2. Your stated goal is "to be a Marine Officer...away from the front line action." You have got to be bull sh*tting me! First and foremost, every Marine Officer is a combat leader. Your MOS doesn't matter. You could be the Division clubs officer and end up leading a combat patrol (with no notice) if the situation required it.
2. Only the best Marines are assigned to Marine Barracks or embassy duty. You have to earn the right to be there by putting your butt on the line.
3. Lose 75 pounds and keep it off for a year before you even think about joining the Marines. Fat Marines get other Marines killed....plain and simple.
4. Forget about your test scores (as long as you make the required scores). The Marine Corps is interested in what is in your heart and your character.....not your brain. If you want to be a rocket surgeon, join the Air Force.
I don't want to rain on your parade. On the other hand, your attitude and personal objectives are not consistent with being a United States Marine. Please do not even think about joining the Marine Corps unless and until you have a change of heart and a change of basic character.
Semper Fi,
Dave
BulletBill
Member Since: December 07, 2009
entire network: 9 Posts
KitMaker Network: 3 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 08:40 AM UTC
Quoted Text
Quoted TextFirst off, I know it will be tough- mentally, physically, and emotionally- and, after you read what I have to say, you may try to dissuade me from putting the effort into it. But I've been thinking and researching as much as I can about this idea, and if I were to join, Marines would be the only branch I'm interested in.
I'm 23 years old, roughly 250lbs at about 6'1", with a bachelors degree in fine art in game art and design. I took a practice ASVAV online, and apparrently scored in the 90th percentile- I want to say 97 or so.
I know I'll need to loose that weight, and I know that my degree wont make me an officer right away, but my goal is to become an officer, preferably away from front line action.
Normally, I wouldn't mind being front line in Iraq or Afghanistan, but my parents freak out, worrying about loosing life or limb, and I'd rather make things easier for them.
What I'm looking for here is some feedback on how I can get what I'm looking for in a Marine career- I'd like to be an officer, preferably on barracks or embassy duty- and how to deal with family.
Again, I'm just spit balling here- the only commitment made has been in my mind.
The following comments are a bit harsh, but they are intended to help you stay alive....and, more importantly, keep good Marines alive. As a former Marine Captain, I would recommend against your joining the Marines for the following reasons:
1. All Marines are combat Marines. If you are not willing to die for the Corps and your fellow Marines, don't join.
2. Your stated goal is "to be a Marine Officer...away from the front line action." You have got to be bull sh*tting me! First and foremost, every Marine Officer is a combat leader. Your MOS doesn't matter. You could be the Division clubs officer and end up leading a combat patrol (with no notice) if the situation required it.
2. Only the best Marines are assigned to Marine Barracks or embassy duty. You have to earn the right to be there by putting your butt on the line.
3. Lose 75 pounds and keep it off for a year before you even think about joining the Marines. Fat Marines get other Marines killed....plain and simple.
4. Forget about your test scores (as long as you make the required scores). The Marine Corps is interested in what is in your heart and your character.....not your brain. If you want to be a rocket surgeon, join the Air Force.
I don't want to rain on your parade. On the other hand, your attitude and personal objectives are not consistent with being a United States Marine. Please do not even think about joining the Marine Corps unless and until you have a change of heart and a change of basic character.
Semper Fi,
Dave
Dave, thanks for your reply, but I did say that I personally did not care where I end up- front lines or not. The only reason I stressed being away from the front was for the sake and welfare of my parents, who have enough problems of their own to worry about.
Also, my cousin, whom was very lucky I realize, has not been deployed, and is serving on presidential guard duty- so how did he manage that without having to "put his butt on the line"?
Finally, I should mention that I participate in many para-military hobbies- I'm a WWII reenactor who regularly attends events and skirmishes, and I routinely play airsoft- while I realize many here may scoff at this, I feel that my experiences in both hobbies have real-world applications in the military. I have been able to successfully setup perimeters, use tactics to secure objectives safely, and use available information given to me to ascertain enemy movement, and figure out the best ways to handle them.
And the only reason I'm overweight is that I didn't know how to eat healthier when I was younger, and haven't made much progress until now getting it off.
18Bravo
Member Since: January 20, 2005
entire network: 7,219 Posts
KitMaker Network: 981 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 11:34 AM UTC
I fully agree with everything David said. And had he not said it, I would have.
Reenacting? Paint ball? Dude, I almost ask myself if you're not having us all on. When they design a paint ball that will go through your helmet straight into your grape, or the little plywood barriers they set up, I'll be impressed. The closest we come is simunitions, a 550 fps plastic bullet that will break the skin through thick clothing.
It's easy for paintballers to be heroic when they know they'll still be enjoying a cold one later even if they take one in the head. When you can go into a room and blow the face off of guy who murdered one of your compatriots, whose body you had to step over to get into the house, you MIGHT be ready. Until then, stay away from the Marines, or any other branch of service. FAR away.
By the way, your spelling is about the last thing on the planet you should feel dumb about.
Reenacting? Paint ball? Dude, I almost ask myself if you're not having us all on. When they design a paint ball that will go through your helmet straight into your grape, or the little plywood barriers they set up, I'll be impressed. The closest we come is simunitions, a 550 fps plastic bullet that will break the skin through thick clothing.
It's easy for paintballers to be heroic when they know they'll still be enjoying a cold one later even if they take one in the head. When you can go into a room and blow the face off of guy who murdered one of your compatriots, whose body you had to step over to get into the house, you MIGHT be ready. Until then, stay away from the Marines, or any other branch of service. FAR away.
By the way, your spelling is about the last thing on the planet you should feel dumb about.
skyhawk
Member Since: June 03, 2003
entire network: 1,095 Posts
KitMaker Network: 279 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 11:41 AM UTC
Hi Bill,
Im going to follow on what Capt Althaus said as a former NCO.
first....ill give you credit for wanting to be part of the best. the Capt's comments stem from the eternal pride we Marines have...and will have till our grave. We looked after our Marines while serving, and will keep looking after Marines after in whatever means we can. It just comes with earning the right to have a EGA on your uniform. The uniform may come off physicaly at some point, but we never really take it off. So, that is probally the best way I can discribe it......you will never really understand until you have earned the title Marine, and never fully grasp it untill your DD214 is in your file. I know I didnt realize it untill a few years after I was out and it sunk in that will most likely never don my blues again.....i digress.
one thing I will add as a former NCO, that with the attitude and heart that you currently have, EVEN if its "because of your parents", will completly loose any respect from your SNCOs and NCOs. You will always be seen as a detriment...not a warrior in the lead. Seen Band of Brothers? yeah...think of that LT who got "reassigned" to supply and the sgts were NOT going to go to combat with him. Thats basicly how you will be seen.
That being said.....its time for you to have a "ball check". Honorable you want to keep your parents from worrying....but you are a man now. Its time for you to decide your life. Not only do you need to pull away from the nest..but they need to let you go. Where is your heart at? you need to ask yourself the hard question about weither you're using your parents as an excuse for your own fears...or if you yourself have the heart of a warrior and are only trying to do the honorable thing.
As a man, you have to make a decision...and ill say that if you want to be an officer in our Corps, this is going to show if you really have what it takes. If you cant make the hard choice, that may put ones you care about under "stress", then you have no business being an officer...thats what officers do...they make decisions that may not be popular, nor safe...but accomplish the mission.
So, you need to decide what your "mission" is...to keep your parents from worring, or pursue something that may be burning in your heart...and that goes back to the "ball check" paragraph above. If your afraid of the front line, then the Air Force or Navy may be more your calling in life.
You need to do some heart searching and have some man-up time. Figure out what you want, act, then deal with the parents.
Ill close by saying this....You have to chose for yourself. Otherwise you will walk through life and everytime you see a Marine, or see one of our kick ass ads on TV, or build a model of some USMC vehicle...you will always wonder "what if". This is your life...dont let your parents make it for you.
Andy
Im going to follow on what Capt Althaus said as a former NCO.
first....ill give you credit for wanting to be part of the best. the Capt's comments stem from the eternal pride we Marines have...and will have till our grave. We looked after our Marines while serving, and will keep looking after Marines after in whatever means we can. It just comes with earning the right to have a EGA on your uniform. The uniform may come off physicaly at some point, but we never really take it off. So, that is probally the best way I can discribe it......you will never really understand until you have earned the title Marine, and never fully grasp it untill your DD214 is in your file. I know I didnt realize it untill a few years after I was out and it sunk in that will most likely never don my blues again.....i digress.
one thing I will add as a former NCO, that with the attitude and heart that you currently have, EVEN if its "because of your parents", will completly loose any respect from your SNCOs and NCOs. You will always be seen as a detriment...not a warrior in the lead. Seen Band of Brothers? yeah...think of that LT who got "reassigned" to supply and the sgts were NOT going to go to combat with him. Thats basicly how you will be seen.
That being said.....its time for you to have a "ball check". Honorable you want to keep your parents from worrying....but you are a man now. Its time for you to decide your life. Not only do you need to pull away from the nest..but they need to let you go. Where is your heart at? you need to ask yourself the hard question about weither you're using your parents as an excuse for your own fears...or if you yourself have the heart of a warrior and are only trying to do the honorable thing.
As a man, you have to make a decision...and ill say that if you want to be an officer in our Corps, this is going to show if you really have what it takes. If you cant make the hard choice, that may put ones you care about under "stress", then you have no business being an officer...thats what officers do...they make decisions that may not be popular, nor safe...but accomplish the mission.
So, you need to decide what your "mission" is...to keep your parents from worring, or pursue something that may be burning in your heart...and that goes back to the "ball check" paragraph above. If your afraid of the front line, then the Air Force or Navy may be more your calling in life.
You need to do some heart searching and have some man-up time. Figure out what you want, act, then deal with the parents.
Ill close by saying this....You have to chose for yourself. Otherwise you will walk through life and everytime you see a Marine, or see one of our kick ass ads on TV, or build a model of some USMC vehicle...you will always wonder "what if". This is your life...dont let your parents make it for you.
Andy
retiredbee2
Member Since: May 04, 2008
entire network: 757 Posts
KitMaker Network: 180 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 03:23 PM UTC
Bill......When I was a young guy, Viet Nam was going on and although I wanted to serve my country, I too did not want any part of ground combat so I joined the Navy. Got my honorable discharge and was out for ten years. Then the itch slowly came back. I wanted in again but this time I was an electrician by trade and wanted in to the Seabees. Seabees are akin to the Marines . Dedicated, but not quite as motivated and driven as they are. The fear of ground combat for me was much subsided and I was ready for whatever came my way. Seabees work along with Marines and are attached to their various task forces. Funny thing how I trained and trained and never saw combat. I was a military instructor for my unit and I gave class after class to my guys on weapons and you name it right out of the Marine Corp manuals. Spent a whole bunch of time at Camp Lejeune . Turns out I retired and just months later my guys went to Irac. Seabee Batallion 14 out of Florida. Eight men from my batallion were killed and a bunch of them wounded. Six from a mortar attack and two from a roadside bomb. I can't say that I would want to be killed or wounded , but it is killing me inside that I couldn't be there with them. My parents would have worried for me too but that did not give me an excuse for talking the talk but not walking the walk. If it is not in your heart to put it out there on the line for your country ,and your buddies, reguardless of your parents then I would say that you should not join a ground combat force , particularly the Marines. These guys are the best and my hat is definately off to them. If you want to serve ,join the Navy or Air Force . The Coast Guard is a good group. They are into rescues and drug busting. Join one of those outfits and maybe ten years down the road you too will feel differently, but for now , forget about the marines. The Marines will be glad that you did.......Al Vaccaro.......CE1 (SCW) Ret
BulletBill
Member Since: December 07, 2009
entire network: 9 Posts
KitMaker Network: 3 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 04:04 PM UTC
Quoted Text
Bill......When I was a young guy, Viet Nam was going on and although I wanted to serve my country, I too did not want any part of ground combat so I joined the Navy. Got my honorable discharge and was out for ten years. Then the itch slowly came back. I wanted in again but this time I was an electrician by trade and wanted in to the Seabees. Seabees are akin to the Marines . Dedicated, but not quite as motivated and driven as they are. The fear of ground combat for me was much subsided and I was ready for whatever came my way. Seabees work along with Marines and are attached to their various task forces. Funny thing how I trained and trained and never saw combat. I was a military instructor for my unit and I gave class after class to my guys on weapons and you name it right out of the Marine Corp manuals. Spent a whole bunch of time at Camp Lejeune . Turns out I retired and just months later my guys went to Irac. Seabee Batallion 14 out of Florida. Eight men from my batallion were killed and a bunch of them wounded. Six from a mortar attack and two from a roadside bomb. I can't say that I would want to be killed or wounded , but it is killing me inside that I couldn't be there with them. My parents would have worried for me too but that did not give me an excuse for talking the talk but not walking the walk. If it is not in your heart to put it out there on the line for your country ,and your buddies, reguardless of your parents then I would say that you should not join a ground combat force , particularly the Marines. These guys are the best and my hat is definately off to them. If you want to serve ,join the Navy or Air Force . The Coast Guard is a good group. They are into rescues and drug busting. Join one of those outfits and maybe ten years down the road you too will feel differently, but for now , forget about the marines. The Marines will be glad that you did.......Al Vaccaro.......CE1 (SCW) Ret
Alfred, thank you very much for your support and understanding. I wish I could say here how certain I am in joining or not, but I face a lot of opposition from friends and family, mostly stuff saying how I'm too good for them, how I will be disappointed or be killed. Even here, people aren't really reading what I'm saying.
Robert- like I said, I know its not like the real thing, but it's the closest I can do, and its a hell of a lot better than sitting on my ass playing a video game, and letting that make my decision. With reenacting, I have learned so much from the other vets who participate- as both spectators and other guys in my unit. I have learned military protocol, rifle drill, marching...and that is only on the public displays we do. I haven't been yet, but we hold tacticals, events very similar to the war games that the military does, only on a much simpler scale to save money.
And airsoft is NOTHING like paintball. In fact, those scenarios with the plastic ammo at 500 FPS is airsoft. And when I play, there are no wooden structures to take cover behind, there is only concealment in the underbrush.
And Randy, I do know who you are talking about- Capt. Sobel (or were you referring to Peacock, who froze up during the assault on Foy? Both are applicable in my eyes on what you were trying to say) and I can say this.
I am not afraid to die, to serve, to bleed, or to kill. The only reason I'm not saying I am or will, is because I do not know what the future holds for me- see, I made a deal that I would wait one year before dedicating myself to this cause- and come March, I start talking to a recruiter. I just want to know how to deal with parents like mine, and how to do what I want, while keeping them relatively happy.
I know that not serving would do that best, but that's not what is best for me. I lack direction and, well, I'm not the man I want to be. And I feel what the Marines have done for others, for my uncle, cousin, and coworkers whom I've discussed this with, is what I should go for.
I really wish you guys would refrain from making these calls on my character and spirit- there is very little you know about the kind of man I am, from 3 posts worth of questions and explanations. If you will all just take a moment, rather than saying I'll make a terrible Marine because I'm overweight, because I worry about my folks, because I base my experience from books, games, and my hobbies, and really be more supportive perhaps, asking questions and making suggestions so I can be part of something bigger and grander- that is what I'm looking for.
I would think that if you treat your peers in the Marines like brothers, then why discriminate and put down someone who only wishes to be the same?
skyhawk
Member Since: June 03, 2003
entire network: 1,095 Posts
KitMaker Network: 279 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 04:23 PM UTC
Quoted Text
I really wish you guys would refrain from making these calls on my character and spirit- there is very little you know about the kind of man I am, from 3 posts worth of questions and explanations. If you will all just take a moment, rather than saying I'll make a terrible Marine because I'm overweight, because I worry about my folks, because I base my experience from books, games, and my hobbies, and really be more supportive perhaps, asking questions and making suggestions so I can be part of something bigger and grander- that is what I'm looking for.
I would think that if you treat your peers in the Marines like brothers, then why discriminate and put down someone who only wishes to be the same?
Bill,
ill speak for myself...what I said was not meant to be an attack on your character...but in fact a suggestion that you ask yourself the hard questions and figure out where you are at, regardless of your parents influence. If you have done just that (and it sounds as though you have) then OK....next is to make a decision and move from there.
now you need to decide what is most important to you...and from your last post it does sound as though you know what you would like...and what you feel in your heart what you desire, but are concerned about how to break that to the parents.
My parents were pretty shocked as well...my dad for sure thought i should do the airforce thing (more technical...more civilan aplication, etc) and of course my mom was concerned about combat (as was I...). All I can say is make your decision and then set them down at the earliest and be totaly honest with them. Share with them why, including your reason (family history sounds like one...as was with me..my grandfather served with the Corps during WW2 and Korea). Share your heart behind it. They may not understand..they may be worried. Heck, they are parents...they love you and they are going to worry regardless.
They will respect that, and even if they worry...they will handle it. And as they see the transformation in you....attending your graduation, your uncle and cousins, they will have a pride that only a Parent of a Marine can have.
Like what the others have said, and mentioned....the Marines are more interested in your character and heart...they will make you into the rest (including your body). So if you have the heart, and the character, then go for it.
retiredbee2
Member Since: May 04, 2008
entire network: 757 Posts
KitMaker Network: 180 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 04:38 PM UTC
And I agree with Andy.......I can see that you are a good hearted person, but I think that if you want to be a Marine , you have to really really want it bad. All the training in the world and paramilitary hobbies will only somewhat prepare you for the insanity of combat. But when the s..t hits the fan no one really knows how they will stand up to it the first time. It is getting past the first time that will make or break you reguardless of your training, but it helps to go into it wanting it with all of your heart and not halfheartedly........Al
Grumpyoldman
ConsigliereMember Since: October 17, 2003
entire network: 15,338 Posts
KitMaker Network: 5,072 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 06:09 PM UTC
Good luck son, there's a DI at PI just waiting to turn you from civilian to Marine. (and if they can't--- well, at least you tried, and there's always the Air Force! 
joke! )
If your mind is made up to be one of the few, God bless you, and remember corpsmen are Navy!
As for your folks, they'll either get over it, and support you, or they won't.
My step-father supported me from the time I enlisted, and through out my adult life through success and failure, until he passed away 10 years ago. My mother cried just about everyday I was away. (When Desert Storm started, she called me up--- crying of course---- begging me not to run out and re-enlist---- I got out in 1972-- I reassured her that the Navy wasn't that hard up yet that they needed my over age, over weight, out of shape ass any longer, and I would probably be more of a hazard than a help on a ship. Picture the Hunts Tomato going through a scuttle! never mind that was way before your time!
joke! )If your mind is made up to be one of the few, God bless you, and remember corpsmen are Navy!
As for your folks, they'll either get over it, and support you, or they won't.
My step-father supported me from the time I enlisted, and through out my adult life through success and failure, until he passed away 10 years ago. My mother cried just about everyday I was away. (When Desert Storm started, she called me up--- crying of course---- begging me not to run out and re-enlist---- I got out in 1972-- I reassured her that the Navy wasn't that hard up yet that they needed my over age, over weight, out of shape ass any longer, and I would probably be more of a hazard than a help on a ship. Picture the Hunts Tomato going through a scuttle! never mind that was way before your time!
PanzerMike
Member Since: May 09, 2007
entire network: 298 Posts
KitMaker Network: 13 Posts
Posted: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 - 10:47 PM UTC
My platoon commander in basic was one of the best officers i ever met ( this is NZ Army by the way ) he got respect from NCOs that had been in 20 years and they werent just doing it to kiss his ass either. He always knew how to get that extra 10% out of us when we were already giving 100%.we would have followed him into the mouth of hell.If you want to be a good officer you have to embody the idea of what a soldier is and inspire and lead your troops - a good officer always leads from the front. Good luck to you and i hope you stick with what ever choice you make.
mj
Member Since: March 16, 2002
entire network: 1,331 Posts
KitMaker Network: 334 Posts
Posted: Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 03:39 AM UTC
Quoted Text
I really wish you guys would refrain from making these calls on my character and spirit
Kid, if you really believe the comments you've received in this thread lack understanding and compassion, Basic is going to be a real eye-opener for you.
Cheers,
Mike
Splinty2001
Member Since: October 01, 2004
entire network: 283 Posts
KitMaker Network: 84 Posts
Posted: Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 04:28 AM UTC
I just retired from the Army as an NCO and I just want to add one thing, being an officer is a calling in my book. If you are not certain you want to devote your life to the Corps and your Marines, you may want to do 3 or 4 years as an enlisted man to see if you've got what it takes.
sopmod6
Member Since: March 31, 2005
entire network: 761 Posts
KitMaker Network: 262 Posts
Posted: Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 12:46 PM UTC
As an avid airsoft enthusiast whose played the sport for well over 2 decades, it is nothing like the military, and I served in there for eight years. Don't mix / confuse the two. Nuff said on that.
captfue
Member Since: September 02, 2006
entire network: 785 Posts
KitMaker Network: 210 Posts
Posted: Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 03:56 PM UTC
As a former Marine and ex army officer I'd like to add my 2cents, If in your heart you feel you'll make a good Marine, go for it. I think it's great you want to enlist before trying to become an officer, As far as not going into combat well that's not going to be your choice anyway.
In about two years my oldest grandson wants to join the Corps, after high school, he deserves and better have the best leaders avaible.
In about two years my oldest grandson wants to join the Corps, after high school, he deserves and better have the best leaders avaible.
MSGsummit
Member Since: November 16, 2002
entire network: 751 Posts
KitMaker Network: 175 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 01:22 AM UTC
Bill,
I served 4 years in the Corps, and am currently a Master Sergeant in the Army. I also am a parent with a son who turned 23 today and who is serving in the Navy. My son joined the Navy specifically because he did not want to go into ground combat. He was a little hesitant to tell me that........I guess he thought I would think he was a coward or something. Anyway, my response to him was that there are alot of ways to serve your counrty that do not require you to be a trigger puller. I also told him that any job in the military is inherently risky, no matter what your job or branch. The enemy can and does strike at any time and anywhere. A computer operator can find himself performering the duties of an infanrtyman in a heart beat. So, I guess I would kinda tell you the same thing.
Another thing I would tell you is I have always encouraged my children to NOT join the military. The military was good enough for me, but they were to good for the Military. After my son informed me he was going to enlist, I had no choice but to support him......I believe your family and friends will do the same.
If you want to be an officer, you better be damn sure. I have known both good and bad officers. The good ones I have followed into combat because I respected them and trusted them. The not so good ones, I followed them because I had too and was always wary of there judgement, my fellow comrades felt the same way.
Lastly, no amount of airsofting, paintballing or playing war will prepare you for combat and should not be used as a gauge of how good a Soldier or Marine you will become. Being physically fit, having experience with firearms will assist you but will not fully prepare you in anyway. Bottom Line........Join because you want to join. Do the job you want to do.......but think about what you are doing. Going in as enlisted first is a good idea, then you will have a much better understaning of leadership. Good and bad. Just Don't let romanticism, or visions of glory cloud your judgement. From personal experience.....that crap only exists in the movies.
I served 4 years in the Corps, and am currently a Master Sergeant in the Army. I also am a parent with a son who turned 23 today and who is serving in the Navy. My son joined the Navy specifically because he did not want to go into ground combat. He was a little hesitant to tell me that........I guess he thought I would think he was a coward or something. Anyway, my response to him was that there are alot of ways to serve your counrty that do not require you to be a trigger puller. I also told him that any job in the military is inherently risky, no matter what your job or branch. The enemy can and does strike at any time and anywhere. A computer operator can find himself performering the duties of an infanrtyman in a heart beat. So, I guess I would kinda tell you the same thing.
Another thing I would tell you is I have always encouraged my children to NOT join the military. The military was good enough for me, but they were to good for the Military. After my son informed me he was going to enlist, I had no choice but to support him......I believe your family and friends will do the same.
If you want to be an officer, you better be damn sure. I have known both good and bad officers. The good ones I have followed into combat because I respected them and trusted them. The not so good ones, I followed them because I had too and was always wary of there judgement, my fellow comrades felt the same way.
Lastly, no amount of airsofting, paintballing or playing war will prepare you for combat and should not be used as a gauge of how good a Soldier or Marine you will become. Being physically fit, having experience with firearms will assist you but will not fully prepare you in anyway. Bottom Line........Join because you want to join. Do the job you want to do.......but think about what you are doing. Going in as enlisted first is a good idea, then you will have a much better understaning of leadership. Good and bad. Just Don't let romanticism, or visions of glory cloud your judgement. From personal experience.....that crap only exists in the movies.
skyhawk
Member Since: June 03, 2003
entire network: 1,095 Posts
KitMaker Network: 279 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 03:53 AM UTC
hey bill...i just reread your 2nd post again...first paragraph..
"but I face a lot of opposition from friends and family, mostly stuff saying how I'm too good for them, how I will be disappointed "...
WTF do they know????!!!! im sorry...I find that insulting to the Corp and to me. Unless your friends and family are Marines, how do they know how you will measure up to our standards? It sound like some of what my dad was telling me "your too smart to be a jarhead" crap.
Bill, the ones that are good enough become Marines.
and "disapointed"? sorry...those who are "disapointed" never get through the first month of boot... If you want it, and your looking for the chalenge, and have the heart...our Corps wont disapoint you.
I have yet to meet a Marine who was "disapointed" he earned that title...
"but I face a lot of opposition from friends and family, mostly stuff saying how I'm too good for them, how I will be disappointed "...
WTF do they know????!!!! im sorry...I find that insulting to the Corp and to me. Unless your friends and family are Marines, how do they know how you will measure up to our standards? It sound like some of what my dad was telling me "your too smart to be a jarhead" crap.
Bill, the ones that are good enough become Marines.
and "disapointed"? sorry...those who are "disapointed" never get through the first month of boot... If you want it, and your looking for the chalenge, and have the heart...our Corps wont disapoint you.
I have yet to meet a Marine who was "disapointed" he earned that title...
Whiskey6
Member Since: August 15, 2006
entire network: 408 Posts
KitMaker Network: 179 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 04:36 AM UTC
Quoted Text
Just Don't let romanticism, or visions of glory cloud your judgement. From personal experience.....that crap only exists in the movies.
I have to add a loud "Amen" to that!
Bill -
Please consider what we have said. The Marine Corps is not a game. It is not all dress blues and tennis shoes. I would encourage you to particularly listen to the comments of those who were Marine NCO's and Staff NCO's. They are the ones who decide who will be allowed to become a Marine. More importantly, it is the Staff NCO's of the Marine Corps who decide who will become the next generation of Marine Officers. At some point in the past several years, a Marine Staff NCO had to approve the awarding of the title of United States Marine to the man who is now the Commandant of the Marine Corps.
If you want some insight into what kind of character and sacrifice will be expected of you, google 2nd Lt. Terrence Graves.
https://www.forcerecon.com/gravestc.htm
Terry was a friend of mine in college (back when the earth was cooling). You can also goolge William R. Higgins, another college classmate of mine who was murdered by Hazbollah in Lebanon. Or you can try Col. Donald Cook., who was killed by the NVA while in captivity. Study not how these men died, but how they lived. Study their character.
If after you study the lives and character of these men you still want to join our Corps, then get your weight under 175, be able to run three miles in 21 minutes or less and be able to crank out at least 5 pull ups. Once you have done that, go see the Marine recruiter. If you get kicked out of the recruiter's office (like I did), go back and try again.....and keep going back every time they kick you out.......until the recruiting sergeants decide that you deserve a chance to complete recruit training. Once in recruit training stay with it no matter how many times you fail, until you are permitted to become a Marine. Never quit...reqardless of the pain, injuries, set-backs, insults, etc.
Then serve at least four years as a Marine. If after that you still think you can lead Marines and bring them home alive, apply for OCS and give it your best shot....with the understanding that only about one third of all those who enter Marine OCS actually complete the program and are commissioned.
If you are among those who are commissioned, don't you dare do something stupid that will get one of my Marines killed. (When I was at Marine Barracks, Brooklyn, one of my duties was notifying parents and wives that their sons/husbands had been killed or wounded.) Nuff said.
Semper Fi,
Dave
Lector
Member Since: April 17, 2009
entire network: 32 Posts
KitMaker Network: 9 Posts
entire network: 32 Posts
KitMaker Network: 9 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 06:12 AM UTC
Good Afternoon to all of you, Gentlemen.
I ask your permission to add some absolutely respectful words:
I feel "a bit" a foreigner in this post, as I´m not North-American (I´m Spaniard) but I´ve really enjoyed reading it. Also, I had a limited experience with USA Servicemen (some Navy sailors, and some USMC) when I was in my country´s Armada.
The only thing I can say, Sirs, is that this post is PLENTY OF EXCELLENT ADVICES and CAREFUL CONSIDERATIONS . I just haven´t been able to close my mouth after reading the exchange of thoughts written here. This is a really VERY SERIOUS post.
Salud.
Roberto G.R.
I ask your permission to add some absolutely respectful words:
I feel "a bit" a foreigner in this post, as I´m not North-American (I´m Spaniard) but I´ve really enjoyed reading it. Also, I had a limited experience with USA Servicemen (some Navy sailors, and some USMC) when I was in my country´s Armada.
The only thing I can say, Sirs, is that this post is PLENTY OF EXCELLENT ADVICES and CAREFUL CONSIDERATIONS . I just haven´t been able to close my mouth after reading the exchange of thoughts written here. This is a really VERY SERIOUS post.
Salud.
Roberto G.R.
skyhawk
Member Since: June 03, 2003
entire network: 1,095 Posts
KitMaker Network: 279 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 06:37 AM UTC
Quoted Text
...This is a really VERY SERIOUS post.
thanks for your comments Roberto... this is a serious topic. Bill is looking into making a serious decision, one that affects not only his life, but the lives of many now and in the future.
excelent post Dave...i think the citations of those you listed say more clearly what we are all trying to tell him.
Semper Fi
Whiskey6
Member Since: August 15, 2006
entire network: 408 Posts
KitMaker Network: 179 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 08:58 AM UTC
Roberto -
Thank you for your comments. You are absolutely correct that this is a very serious thread.
Semper Fi,
Dave
Thank you for your comments. You are absolutely correct that this is a very serious thread.
Semper Fi,
Dave
calvin_ng
Member Since: June 23, 2008
entire network: 1,024 Posts
KitMaker Network: 270 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 09:32 AM UTC
David Im not a Marine, but i respect them downright.They took a bullet for everyone of us, thats got my respect. My mothers friend, has a son in the marines, i remember my mother telling me of how persistent he was in training, they made him eat extra portions for being under wait, some even told him to quit for not being able to do enough pull ups. But as time past he just somehow passed.
. thanks marines, from past and present, you guys earned it!
. thanks marines, from past and present, you guys earned it!
jcourtot
Member Since: June 06, 2008
entire network: 344 Posts
KitMaker Network: 64 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 12:27 PM UTC
I guess I got a couple things to say....
FIRST-I know Im only 15 yrs. old so my 0.02 wont mean too much. But I still will say it.
SECOND- Bill if you want to join the USMC, you cant go into it saying, " Im going to give this a try and see what happens", if thats what you do....you won't make it. Why? Because you wont have any passion to make it. Without Strength,Heart and a Hard-Head it will be hard to get through Basics. You got to go in saying," this is what Im doing and no one is going to stop me, I know im strong enough, I know I got the heart, this is what I WANT to do." And if your friends are saying your too good for the Marines, well they obivously arent thankful for their freedom!!!:( Which is sad! So dont try until you know you want to serve your country. The Marins is an HONOR not a down-grade!!
THIRD- Myself wanting to get in the Marines when Im out of highschool, this is an interesting topic. I look at Americas young generation (from my age to Bills here) and we got alot of lazy kids who dont give a crap about how we keep our freedom.That bugs the frick out of me. I want to join the USMC because I want to serve my country and serve for what our country was founded on....God. I know for myself I can make it through Basics because its what I WANT to do. Because I want to serve my country, and not be limited by our young generations state-of-mind.
P.S. I am not saying all young people think that, there are MANY like me. FYI
FOURTH- To all the ones who have served Our country, who have posted on here......THANK You so much for all that you have sacrificed, and are still!!! I pray God will bless you three times over for what you have done!
Johnathon
FIRST-I know Im only 15 yrs. old so my 0.02 wont mean too much. But I still will say it.
SECOND- Bill if you want to join the USMC, you cant go into it saying, " Im going to give this a try and see what happens", if thats what you do....you won't make it. Why? Because you wont have any passion to make it. Without Strength,Heart and a Hard-Head it will be hard to get through Basics. You got to go in saying," this is what Im doing and no one is going to stop me, I know im strong enough, I know I got the heart, this is what I WANT to do." And if your friends are saying your too good for the Marines, well they obivously arent thankful for their freedom!!!:( Which is sad! So dont try until you know you want to serve your country. The Marins is an HONOR not a down-grade!!
THIRD- Myself wanting to get in the Marines when Im out of highschool, this is an interesting topic. I look at Americas young generation (from my age to Bills here) and we got alot of lazy kids who dont give a crap about how we keep our freedom.That bugs the frick out of me. I want to join the USMC because I want to serve my country and serve for what our country was founded on....God. I know for myself I can make it through Basics because its what I WANT to do. Because I want to serve my country, and not be limited by our young generations state-of-mind.
P.S. I am not saying all young people think that, there are MANY like me. FYI
FOURTH- To all the ones who have served Our country, who have posted on here......THANK You so much for all that you have sacrificed, and are still!!! I pray God will bless you three times over for what you have done!
Johnathon
calvin_ng
Member Since: June 23, 2008
entire network: 1,024 Posts
KitMaker Network: 270 Posts
Posted: Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 12:36 PM UTC
Amen brother, Jonathan ,i have to agree, some of my friends and other students in my highschool, just really dont care about who died for what, their just wondering what they want to buy, eat, or do. It p!$$es the h#ll outta me to see people who take so many things for granted as well
Sabot
Member Since: December 18, 2001
entire network: 12,596 Posts
KitMaker Network: 2,557 Posts
entire network: 12,596 Posts
KitMaker Network: 2,557 Posts
Posted: Friday, January 08, 2010 - 01:47 AM UTC
I don't know about that. I've lived on military installations for the last 22 years. I always see youngsters eager to join the military. Of course to many of them, it is the family business. Both of my stepsons joined, although the older one did not make it through boot camp (I knew he wouldn't make it, think ___ as a football bat), the other one leaves for Germany in a couple of weeks. I haven't told him, but that almost guarentees him a trip to the 'stan.
My nephew joined the Marines a year or so ago. His dad is a senior chief (rides underwater in boats). He's a LCPL in Iraq now.
Bill, if you are serious enough about it, and have the desire, the recruiters will assist you in making sure you are able to make it physically. If you want a wider variety of career opportunities, consider talking to an Army recruiter. The Army has a lot of jobs in supply, contracting, transportation and a large training base that is manned by combat arms officers.
My nephew joined the Marines a year or so ago. His dad is a senior chief (rides underwater in boats). He's a LCPL in Iraq now.
Bill, if you are serious enough about it, and have the desire, the recruiters will assist you in making sure you are able to make it physically. If you want a wider variety of career opportunities, consider talking to an Army recruiter. The Army has a lot of jobs in supply, contracting, transportation and a large training base that is manned by combat arms officers.
 |
WEB HOSTING BY
Copyright ©2021 KitMaker Network and Kitmaker Network, a subsidiary of Silver Star Enterprises
All Rights Reserved. Please read our Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy.
All Rights Reserved. Please read our Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy.