Why are you interested in joining the military? Is it because you like the idea of being part of a patriotic, technologically advanced fighting force that works to defend America at home and abroad. Maybe because you want to carry on a family tradition of service. Perhaps you view military service as a way of gaining valuable skills and benefits or a college education. Whatever the case may be, people who have chosen to follow the military Path usually think they've done so with clear knowledge of what they're getting into and of what they want.
The military is one of the more complex paths to follow, since choosing this path means making several other choices as well. Joining the military is a dense process, and deciding to become part of the armed forces is only the first step. You must choose between full-time active duty and serving in the National Guard or reserves. Once these choices are made, you have to decide what branch you'll be a part of. You then have to decide if you are going to join as an officer or an enlisted soldier. Once you've chosen that, you have to decide what your job in the military is going to be. Finally, once your term of service is up, you have to decide if you are going to continue your career in the military or pursue options in civilian life.
There are five military branches: The Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. The Army is commanded by a four-star general, known as the Army Chief of Staff. The Army Chief of Staff reports to the Secretary of the Army (for most matters). The top military member in the Air Force is the Air Force Chief of Staff. This four-star general reports (for most matters) to the Secretary of the Air Force. The Navy is commanded by a four-star admiral, called the Chief of Naval Operations. The Marines are commanded by a 4-star general called the Commandant of the Marine Corps. Both the Chief of Naval Operations and the Marine Corps Commandant report (for most matters) to the Secretary of the Navy.
You'll get great benefits from military service, including travel, food and housing, healthcare, assistance with paying for educational expenses like college or technical school, career training, and assistance in buying a home. The military can be the answer. With the right attitude from the enlisted much strength of character and self-confidence can be developed. There are excellent training programs that offer a bright future for those returning to civilian life. Lives can be changed and led in directions never before even considered.