Knowing Accurate And Timely Facts Important When Joining Up
As you examine whether to join up and become a member of the United States Armed Forces, there are a lot of things to examine. And, it is good to have a number of things in mind when you DO decide you are ready to make your decision.
Here are a few items to keep in Mind:
Don’t Make a Snap Decision Its easy to make a hasty decision when you feel pressured. Don’t decide the first time you talk to a recruiter, and NEVER make the choice when you are upset, angry or depressed. Sure, talk to the recruiter, but then seek advice from a parent, relative or loved one. Examine the situation from all angles. Think about the pros and cons.
Some recruiters are very relaxed, others are very intense. Give it a little time. Think it over. Don’t make the choice when you are unsure, confused, hard up for work, or even if you feel pressured by family.
Take someone with you when you visit the Recruiter This is not necessarily what you think. Sure there are disreputable recruiters, but most are loyal, hardworking patriots that just want to do their job well.
But there is a lot of information to take in. And its important to have someone else to help you sort through the huge pile of information you will be exposed to.
Consider Your Moral Bearings The mission of all U.S. Armed Forces is to prepare for the possibility of war, and to when needed, to wage war. Some people honestly cannot do that, and that is an individual choice. If this is you, you likely should not consider enlistment.
Talk to Veteran Veterans know the ropes. Find one in your community and ask them all the questions you can think of.
Get it in Writing Get a written copy of your enlistment contract. Read the fine print, and look specifically at the area that talks about what the military can order you to do. Ask to take a copy BEFORE you sign, and talk it over with other people.
Beware of the Point of no Return Most people are aware, but your period of commitment begins as soon as you sign. Before that, you can back out with no penalty. AFTER that point, you are committed, for the full period of which you agreed to.