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Should I join the armed forces?
Asked by C Neg
I am a mid level web developer that's been out of work for a year. Before that, my company basically went broke but not bankrupt and I lost my job. No one has taken a chance on me since, and there are few training opportunities for me. I have no one in my life to help support me... I've been wanting a change of career/LIFE as a result of the frustrations. I want something that will demand me on a local level- something that makes me feel good like protection services- police, firefighter, paramedic. The army offers a sign on bonus that would eliminate my credit card debt from being out of work. Plus it will re-train me as a firefighter. I've been unable to get volunteer firefighting work, i dont' see there's another way to get the training except for more debt from going to a fire academy. The only thing that makes me hesitate is that I dont' agree with our government's current use of the military.

Loser ..run run run for the death ..
Answered by Miami-boy

Not while Bush is in Office!
Answered by YippyYahQQ

No No No No. Stay safe and enjoy your life and family!!!!
Answered by fairylandk

if you want to you should do it if thats what you enjoy doing.
Answered by shannon d

I don't believe in getting another person's judgement for them. But your thinking is in the right direction. Keep thinking. Nobody ever served his country by becoming a casualty or serving a dubious policy.
Answered by vanamont7

go for it. if u want to add on to the 3000 +
Answered by tre_132mp

I say yes. I was going into the Army, and was proud. BUT ended up being pregnant and discharged. Fight for our freedom and be a hero, I will appreciate it, And these losers can say all they want, at least there are still people who are glad there even is armed forces, so that we can live free... dont listen to these jerks. I wish they went one day without the military around and see what kind of world they would be in, I would like to hear them talk then. OH WAIT they wouldn't be talking, cause we would be killed already.
Answered by gsxr650

if you do not agree with the current military action, i think you should explore other lines of employment. you become a tool for war when you join, and that is all you will be. if the war in iraq ended today, there is a very high chance you will go to war somewhere else. if you do not agree with this war, or war in general, i would incur the debt.
Answered by Jack B

The military is a poor choice for a job. The military is only properly entered when you want to do it for adventure, or duty to your country. You'll get paid a low wage, work a lot of hours, and be subject to conditions no one in the civilian world has to (deployment, military law, being sent to war by morons). I strongly advise you against joining the military for financial reasons. You could retrain yourself for another career, or even work double shifts at WalMart, and come out ahead financially.
Answered by disgruntled_penguin

Sure. We all gotta die sometime.
Answered by sandwich

If you're a conscientious objector, don't join the military. If you have a problem about which war you are willing to fight, it ain't for you.
Answered by the_skipper_also

i'm speaking as a member of HM forces, if you are in a relationship and want a career join the RAF, if you're single and want a career join the Navy, however if you want action and the real adrenalin rush of getting shot at then join the Army
Answered by sean s

There are definitely good and bad points to the military. The benefits are great, you get on-the-job training, and the sign on bonuses can be fantastic. Keep in mind, though, that there's always a possibility you will be deployed. And the army deploys for longer than any of the other branches. On the flip side, you get paid significantly more when you're deployed. One thing to remember is that as a firefighter, you wouldn't be doing the killing if you were sent to Iraq - you would be saving lives. Given your current situation, I think it would be a good idea to enlist.
Answered by theresacrider

Not a good place to be at the moment, keep lookin a bit longer first and see what else comes up.
Answered by pedrock

A firefighting career yes. Join the Armed Forces - NO NO NO NO NO Especially if you value your life do not join the Armed Forces. Why not re-train as a paramedic or ask the police careers advisor what you might need to do to get work in the police force.
Answered by Jewel

http://www.mi6.gov.uk/output/page4.html http://www.hmprisonservice.gov.uk/carresrsandjobs/ Check those out for rewarding career with clear conscience.
Answered by OD

To join the military, it should be because you want to sever this wonderful country of ours. If your looking to join for an economic reason think again, your pay won't be so good so it should be because it's something you really want to do... theres no going back once you sign that contract. Politics should not be the reason why you don't join. Or it would be like saying, i want to server my country but i dont want to go to war...If these aren't your thoughts maybe you should think about look for a different occupation... Keep looking you'll find something... Good Luck!!! Support Our Brave Troops!!!
Answered by erasan

do what u want to do, why not go to a job centre t
Answered by blonde dyslexic but good looking

The military offers a lot of valuable training and benefits. It also carries one main risk, and it's a doozy - you can die in this job. There are also a lot of less desirable aspects - lack of privacy, being forced to go to places you'd rather not go and stay there when you'd rather leave, etc. Your life is not your own. However, as you point out, that life could be debt-free and you could receive training that would be costly elsewhere. If the benefits offered outweigh the risk in your eyes, then this is the right path for you. if you can't live with the risks, then give up this idea and look for other ways to achieve the goals you have set for yourself. Either way, please take care and stay safe.
Answered by Mel

In the current world climate, where everyone thinks America is the epitome of evil, I would have to say don't do it. A few thousand bucks of credit card debt is NOT worth getting blown to pieces over.
Answered by HarleyGirlSD

My advice would be no.. it doesnt sound like you are very happy right now, and i dont see how putting yourself into a war would make you any more happy. could plunge you into severe depression when you return. I live in San Fransisco, California, home to probably 35% of the Vietnam veterans, and i see firsthand the affects of war on people. Besides, if you sign that contract you will just be another slave to Corporate america, or should i say the bush administration.
Answered by vegabond247

i really thinks it would be a good idea for your situation.. even though you might have doubts, maybe its the best choice... really. i think even though you disagree with current government use of military it will be a great way to get back in employment GET you started again. good luck :]
Answered by PIRATE.

go in and test to see where you would be placed. If you would be placed as an officer then I would say yes I agree with your reasonings, If not I would worry about you and always wonder about that guy (you) that I reads post and how you are doing on the front lines.. we dont need any more grunts in iraq. This current war is meaningless and needs to be done with. Have you considered going back to school? Going to a fire academy would be a very minor investment into yourself if thats something you see yourself enjoying for the rest of your life. Dont let money be your only driving factor. If it makes you happy than truly more debt for a little longer isnt that big of a deal. I would be extremly leary of joining the armed forces right now. plus when your done.. your not just done.. you might have PTSD, and any number of exposures to toxic warfare. hope that helps
Answered by Heidi W

No. I am prior service. Government has the most contempt for the military. If you do it do it because you believe in the Constitutiion which you will probably be asked to disobey. Try some other occupation.
Answered by theropingeffect

Honestly, if your'e not 100% with the program the army might not be for you. If you have negative thoughts or feelings about what you might have to do, don't get your self in a situation that will hurt you. I was in the active army for 4 years and was ready to get out by the time my enlistment was up, this coming from a guy that grew up dreaming of being in a war, too much John Wayne and Audie Murphy, I think.
Answered by Frank R

Firstly the armys not a job its a life take it from me 7yrs 2 para ask yourself this are you a person? or do you want to be a wheel in a cog? if you decide that your the later then by all means join the army but please dont join simply because its a job you could end up with a career by doing a trade when your in but remember you could also end up dead either way do the math good luck
Answered by jackmeeko

do you like the idea of sliting peoples throats, blowing legs off and hearing them scream in pain and terror begging for their mum as you burn them alive or they do that to you. Simply as you are told to. Even say if they are children as some are made to be child soldiers. Deliberately hurting , maining and killing others. Maybe simply so oil comapnies can get rich helping to supress innocent people.? Also have you looked into how those comming back injured or say their spouce s are deported or left on their own after or the bullying in barracks etc.
Answered by As_It_Is

I have never served myself. But, grew up in the Air Force. And most of my married life was married to the Military. I support our troops all the way. And, admire men and women who do choose to serve. Military life is good training all the way around for any one. It teaches self discipline, honor, loyalty, and respect. Once you have served your time in the Military, if you choose not to make it your life time career, it will look good on your resume for the rest of your life. Whether you agree with our Government or not, our Leaders so far has kept us out of harms way. We are still a united country and still have the same privileges and freedom we grew up with. You may not agree with all your superiors, in Government or not Government related, the point is, you will always have some one over you telling you what THEY expect from you. Just do your job as you are told put forth your best. The Military can train you for this very well. And, most employers realize this. So I say go for it! Good luck on your decision. I wish you the best in what ever you decide. It's a tough cold cruel world out there when you are on your own and jobless with no hope. My prayers are with you.
Answered by Sherry

go for it!
Answered by ireland01

I think you will be hard pressed to find any soldier that does agree with the government! I think you need to think very carefully about joining up - you can't just walk out if you don't like it. Also, it is more than just a job - it is a way of life. Think long and hard before you make such a big desision. Good Luck.
Answered by VodkaChick

If you want to put yourself in mortal danger and sign part of your life away just to clear your credit card debts then go ahead. But remember the armed forces are the only employer who will ask you to give up your life and die for them. Even Alan Sugar doesn't ask that of his apprentices!
Answered by ojos azul claro

if you join the armed forces you will be paid to serve your queen and country my son in law enjoyed being in the army when we went to war it worried me but the answer he gave me was I have been trained and paid to serve my country and I will have to go, it is a good opportunity to get discipline money and self respect go for it it is a very good life
Answered by susan will of the wisp

Yep that's a right dilema. Agree that our goverment's agression in Iraq is totally wrong etc, etc, etc. But you could get excellent training & qualifications in whatever field you desire. Paramedic excellent, tailor, chef, communications engineer, etc. Use the system & go for it!
Answered by Jonathan V

the army sounds like best option in your case but id try everything else first!
Answered by Ricky M

Joining the army is definitely not a feel good job and absolutely not the solution to your financial problems, joining the army is a way of life and is physically very demanding.
Answered by m l

Normally I'd say yes, but your last sentence could be a bit of a problem.
Answered by rowdy

I WAS HERE EARLY AND BACK TO GIVE YOU ANSWER,BUT FIRST ,GOD BLESS ,TO THOSE HAVING THEIR HANDS UP WAVING THEIR HANDS IN THE AIR ,HAPPY ARE THEY AND THE ONES THEY LOVE.THE ARMY JOIN YOU ,THE ARMY OF PEACE ,NOT WITH A GUN IN YOUR HAND,BRINGING DEATH AND MORE HATE AND MORE BROKEN HEARTS JOINING A TRAIL OF BROKEN HEARTS GOING DOWN THE ROAD TO HELL,WAKE UP ,PEACE MAKERS TALKING TO OTHER LEADERS WANTING PEACE HERE ON THE EARTH .DOUBLE BUBBLE TROUBLE I SAID A FEW HOURS AGO,MEANT A SOON, DOUBLE DECKER BUS BLOWING UP,OTHER WORD,A FOOL ON SHIP OF FOOLS,IS A LINER SINKING RIGHT NOW A PLEASURE ONE,NO TIME TO PLAY GAMES ,IT IS TIME.
Answered by SATAN THE DEVIL

BECOME A POLICE OFFICER
Answered by Megan

only if you cant get a job elsewhere. stupid job
Answered by riboid

don't join, if you do not agree with the Gov't policy you must alos remember that Gov't policy changes, so even if u did wen u 1st joined, a year down the line you may think its the worst thing ever!
Answered by Craig

I think that decision is a personal one for you to make. You know what the current state of events could mean for anyone that joins...and if you don't agree with it, it will make it much more difficult to swallow, training or no. I think, that if you were to join the armed forces, it would have to be because you want it...it isn't just a place to 'end up' because there seems no other recourse. Somewhere, somehow there is always another route that can be taken. It may mean moving to another area. But, if you find you don't agree with what's going on, to put yourself smack-dab in the middle of exactly what you don't care for, may not be a route to consider. It'll just make life harder. And yeah, so maybe you tough it out, and hopefully come through it all, and on the tail end, there are the things you want...the training, get yourself into another position as a firefighter... Consider and weigh your options carefully. Always know that there is always another route, another course. Both may be very tough. Both may involve maybe spending some time some places you don't care for much...but it's a personal decision that you have to make, and decide for yourself, just what you are willing to sacrifice to get to a place where you wish to be in your life. It's a very personal decision. I wish you luck. I wish you peace of mind in your decision. Cheers.
Answered by Amy's Faded

A Matlot with those swinging bells I don`t see why not?????your in for the trip of a lifetime on an HMS???
Answered by she luvs u

I have nothing but admiration for soldiers who defend our land. However, soldiers are just pawns to the government. If they are maimed in action they are put on a national health waiting list. If they are retired veterans they are not looked after and some have to sell their distinguished service medals to make ends meet. They are forgotten heroes. I agree up to a point the comments made by gsxr650. But instead of calling some people losers why doesn't she look at the broader picture and take off the blinkers. We are fighting an illegal war under the pretence of liberation, the truth is we are in there for greed. (Oil) The soldiers are expendable, their lives less important than oil. Don't be brainwashed like gsxr650. To die for what you believe in is indeed valiant but not for some obscure nation thousands of miles from home that holds no interest to no one except for the fact it's got a lot of the black stuff. Don't be brainwashed, you are expendable. Live or Die a hero, yes, but not as an idiot. Fight for what you believe in, that includes standing up against the policy's of this country if necessary. Don't be led like a lamb to the slaughter.
Answered by barnowl

Personally I think in your circumstances you shouldnt join. Whilst I can understand you wanting a career change, signing up for the military is a bit extreme - especially when you dont agree with how the government (who will be your bosses) will use your skills. There's also the fact that you may have to go to war & risk your life...not a good idea if you dont agree with why you'd be risking it & then if you have to fight you'd probably have to kill other people.
Answered by Lisa D

This is a big career decision as it's very hard to get out of armed forces should you not like it. You sounded quite convincing until your last statement that you don't agree with the Government's use of the military - in that kind of job, you just don't have the choice - you do as you are told. I don't see why you cannot re-train as a firefighter and pursue that career...because it sounds like you want that more. But if you can't get that then go for the next best thing.
Answered by Katie

Do you have the attittude to say 'YES SIR' with the respect and understanding it takes to follow any order given? If you have then go for it. If you dont like the current use then write to them and tell them that. if you dont then try and see if there are any learning groups around you to join them, or using initiative and start one.
Answered by G JI

simple answer is yes .my sister did twenty five years service and had a fabulous life.
Answered by DENISE M

A military career is a very good one,BUT also at this time a very dangerous one. If you think you can hack it, go ahead and sign up for a few years, see how you go with it. Anyways good luck.
Answered by yabyum11

If you have issues with the government about there deployment of the armed forces how could you possibly consider joining. The forces may take you on but if you disagree with doing as you are told you could well have to buy yourself out for the cost of the training along with repayment of the clearance of your debts this is the best case scenario, other alternatives include imprisonment for insubordination or even treason.
Answered by Ragamuffin

why not? what is better than sacrifice your life for your own nation. the apex honourable.
Answered by Pratyush

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