Hi Steve,
So, you've decided to enlist in the military. Best wishes to you amigo.
My nineteen-year-old son is seriously thinking about joining up with the coast guard...seems his best friend just graduated from boot. (I had to kid with him though, the coast guard wasn't even considered part of the military until recently...belonged to the Department of Transportation)
The minority of troopers here know that I'm a twenty year veteran from the U.S. Air Force and I'll share this with you: It was the "fastest" twenty years of my life...good times & bad.
The military IS NOT for everyone and more importantly, everyone IS NOT your friend. You'd think that the U.S. military would attract talented people, not always the case. Just like in the civilian world, you've got your slugs.
Be safe and take care. God bless bro!
Aloha,
T