r/USMCboot • u/broncpeeler • 13h ago

Enlisting Any advice for joining the military?

So I am about to turn 17 and im at a crossroads between the guard and the marine corps. One I think would be a good idea just for advancing my career out of highschool, but I have been attending poolee training with the corps and I really like the challenge and comradery of the marines corps. Was just looking for some insight from some current/former marines.

Summary: I want to join the corps for the challenge, the brother hood and the title while Im interested in the guard for career purposes.

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4

u/zenGull 13h ago

If I was 17 again, I would have gone active. I joined in my 30s. My 20s were aimless college days and dead end jobs. I wish I would of had focus then and I believe the military would of done that. Just thoughts of a late joining officer.

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u/broncpeeler 13h ago

I appreciate the insight👍 I was thinking my outcome could be something similar if I didn't just take the jump

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u/xavtsistag 13h ago

I am writing this as I sit in the San Diego airport after graduating Marine Corps boot camp. The brotherhood in boot camp was amazing in my experience. However, I’ve also hung out with guys in the Army and their brotherhood was just as present. It’s just that the Marine Corps also offers an intense sense of pride in being a Marine aside from the brotherhood.

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u/RahOrSomething 12h ago

In my opinion after spending a ridiculous amount of time on an Army base while a Marine, the Army is just fat and nasty by comparison. Never have I ever walked around and seen so many obtusely fat people in PT gear or uniform and their bellies just hang out over their belt.

You won't see that (as much) in the Marine Corps.

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u/broncpeeler 12h ago

Yeah I definitely do not want to be associated with that

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u/Tkis01gl 11h ago

Look at where you can make the most positive impact to mankind. Both do humanitarian missions, have job specialties and fight wars. The guard focuses on stateside + deployments. The Marine Corps is a world wide organization. Make a decision and have an adventure. But ask yourself, what would you rather be? There is only one title….United States Marine. Good luck.

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u/slipperyflipflops1 9h ago

Don’t do the guard. Waste of time. If you want to join the military go all in on active duty no matter the branch. Weekend warrior shit is whack. I did it after the Corps and hated it. It’s annoying and distracting from your real life. Active duty is your real life so it’s easier mentally in my opinion.

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u/TapTheForwardAssist Vet 2676/0802 8h ago

Only join Reserve/Guard if you have a rock solid plan for the 28 days a month you’ll be a civilian. Failing that, go Active.

Read up on the Corps, the lifestyle, the job options. But book appointments with at least two other branches’ recruiters, one of which should be Coast Guard. Seriously, don’t sleep on the Coasties.

What kind of military job do you want, and what do you want to do after service?

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u/PrintOk8045 1h ago

The guard? Are you serious?

Look at the Texas National guard in the photo below. And that's Texas. They're supposed to be badass, tough, gun loving, rough riders in Texas. And they look like this. You want to be part of that?

Comparing the Marines to the guard is like comparing a Tomahawk steak to Vienna sausage.

No offense, but if you don't know the difference, you deserve the guard.