The Chicken of the Sea

[Occhidiangela]

Forgive my scattered thoughts. I am at a crossroads and need some soundboarding. I know some lurkers have performed US military duty, and I wish for your thoughts on my situation particularly.

My main concern is that I do not wish to follow the path of my father in that he started fairly late for starting a family. I would like to before I am 30, but a military path... does not seem very conducive at this stage. I would be 26-28 at the end of the official service, and 31 before my 8 year sign on period would end. That too scares me. I'm near the stage where bumming around and having a laugh seems like it'll be more fleeting. However, my career paths also look limited at this moment.

Drasca:

1. Navy is a good choice, IMO. I am biased. 25 years before I retired, Navy. Is the enlistment contract a 6 active 2 reserve deal? Or is it 8 years active? There used to be 4 / 4, and 6/2, but I am a bit out of the loop on that.

2. As to starting a family at 30, no worries. We didn't have a daughter until I was 30, son at 33, and it has worked out well. You stay healthy, you can enjoy them, and join in their lives, plenty long.

3. Not sure what your interests in the Navy would be, but if you can get into the nuclear propulsion ratings you will expand on your initial engineering degree with practical experience. This should enable you to earn most of engineering degree while on Active Duty. Save your tuition savings plan for the Master's Degree. B)

4. PM me if you have detailed questions about where the Navy is going.

Occhi