Originally posted by infuryum:
I like the sound of "Hi, I'm a U.S. Marine and I'm tougher than you can ever hope to be." I know it might sound shallow, but that's how I feel after dealing extensively with the Air Force, etc.
I very very much enjoy the idea of graduating from a U.S. service academy, which has been my dream since I was a junior in high school. If the Marines can help me recognize my full potential and help me in an appointment to the USNA, so be it.
Since my farking eyesight prohibits me from joining USAFA, the USNA is a very appropriate alternative. I would be a Marine officer any day over a Naval officer... end of story. College money and pride of being go hand in hand, in my opinion. My only desires are to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy and to be a Marine officer. I don't particularly care if the Army or the Navy or C.G. can offer more money. There's more to life...
If the USNA can tell me I have a fighting chance after enlisting (either active or A.R.) I will sign up and ship out the first week of June. I'm not interested in the Army or Navy or C.G.
infuryum,
What you described sounds exactly like what I had planned to do - I wanted to be a Marine officer. Unfortunately, I didn't have the right connections/recommendations to make it - I only knew a couple officers in the Navy.
To this point, there has been little to challenge the pride I take in being a Marine. Made it even more special for me considering I blew out my knee 1/2 way during boot. Never told anyone because I wanted to graduate on time with my platoon, so I finished basic with torn ligaments in my knee, practically dragging my leg.
Don't count out the other branches though. At least go see what they offer you in terms of your aspirations. Find the best fit and go with it.
If you want to chat drop me an IM with your IM name.
Good luck.
~Pete
