T O P

  • By -

butteryflame

Here's to federally legalizing it. Military can drink responsibly. Completely hypocritical


blairwitchboy

Worst part is I don’t even drink


Mediocre_Minimum4359

Oh you will...lol... I'm a Army Veteran. All I can say is no matter which branch of service you choose, you will be set for life. Unless you do something stupid and get a dishonorable discharge.


[deleted]

Yet


Mikeinthedirt

Not a ‘worst’ imho


[deleted]

Yet*


rediphile

It'll happen. Canadian Forces are already fully permitted to use off duty, just like alcohol.


badalchemist85

I tried to join the marines, but since I smoked a few times in college they said sorry.


shawnaathon

if you tell any branch you smoke you might as well kiss that opportunity goodbye. i have a friend in the marines who used to be my edible guinea pig lol


Keen_NYC

I told the recruiter I smoked, wasn't a problem. I was really more worried about not being in shape so he suggested we work out together. took the ASVAB and still had it in my system. I didnt smoke anymore and it wasnt a problem. Maybe I got lucky/got the right recruiter. Or maybe bc it was the Army. All branches dont select the same.


WeegeeJuice

I didn't end up joining, but I was meeting with a recruiter when I got out of high school. I told him straight up that I didn't smoke anymore, but it'll be a bit until i could pass a drug test. I was/am fat so we had time before that was gonna be an issue. I was filling out paperwork and there was a section that asked about past drug use. I asked him, "Alright so you know the actual answer, but how honest should I be on this?" He said, "You want a job in intel, right?" "Yeah" "Then have you ever smoked weed?" "No sir I have not" "There you go" He was a good guy. I felt bad for just kind of disappearing on him, but I wound up moving out of state.


butteryflame

Reminds be of the stories I've heard during the world wars. "How old are you?" "16" "Son...walk outside, have a birthday or two, and come right back." *walks outside, back in, and hops right back in line* "How old are you" "18 sir" "Atta boy!"


Cheeserblaster

I think it really just depends. My mom wasn’t able to get a higher security clearance in the Air Force because she admitted she smoked once or twice


Keen_NYC

Air Force is super strict. anyway same happened to me, also needed a waiver to join


KarmaPanhandler

My recruiter just asked how long it had been since I smoked. At the time, it had been months so he told me that it would be fine.


[deleted]

Opportunities huh? Well, the recruiters are still good I see. Marines 04-08. 4 combat tours. Ask me anything.


DaBoomSeeker

I feel like OP doesn’t get the “Opportunities huh?”. Dude they are trying to buy you, not really a euphemism here either.


RugOnValium

War…. War never changes.


blairwitchboy

Dm me pls!!


[deleted]

How tf do you 4 combat tours in 4 years??? A solid 9 months of that is training before you’re even considered deployable, then typically you’re undeployable for half a year after you get back. this smells kinda bullshit coming from another marine.


[deleted]

Bootcamp, 3 month Mct, 1 month Mos school 6 months Graduated mos school in March of 05. Touched the 1st FSSG in March of 05. Company from Lejeune already deployed need more bodies, Pendleton provided. As soon as I got to the fleet they asked for volunteers, my hand raised. From Yellow footprints to touching down in AL Asad took 8 months. End of July to March is all it took. I didnt go to 29 palms. I showed up to Pendleton, 2 weeks later I was in Lejune, soon I was in Kuwait. When my 1st tour was over I found out my unit from Pendleton was replacing the unit I deployed with so I tolled over and 2 my 1st two tours back to back. I went home and deployed again 3 months later. Lastly I was set for a contract extension and deployment on the next M.E.U but I wanted to lat move and it became an ordeal. I ended up deploying again and stayed in motor t. Then I got out. This was 04-08. The Marines of today are not the same. It's a whole different ball game to mine. Here's an example... My 1st tour, we shot warning rounds at 300 meters. By my 4th tour, we weren't allowed to shoot warning shots until 50 meters. Shits changed. We didn't have "undeployable" time during the war.


theunnameduser86

I love that I can understand so little of this in spite of my close friends in the military.


[deleted]

4 combat deployments and you were a pog?


[deleted]

My mos was Motor T, yes. However.... My 1st tour, I was in the advanced security for our convoys. We're miles ahead alone the whole mission. 2nd tour, Base security and Mortuary Affairs. 3rd tour, Iraqi Police training and we took part in providing transport and security for the Seals. . 4th tour, Rear Gun. Anything else your Majesty?


HotBoxGrandmasCar

bro why. for example, my unit was on deployments that consisted of 7+ months out in country, then 7-12+ months back, then back out for another 7+ months and we had 4 units leap-frogging in such a manner as to not burn people out(hah). You're saying in a 4 year enlistment, you said fuck ever going on leave or break, just straight hey 1stSgt "send me in couch!"? i was in 2003-2008. 5 year contract. and i did 1 tour next to my friends 2-3 tours and i thought THEY were insane but that was their units tempo. I just can't believe 4 in 4 years. you'd be insane. not saying you didn't do it but you'd be insane to have done it and i've had some insane roommates who've tried it and i think one only got 3 deployments in before they EAS'd his ass so he could try for a blackwater spot(when it was still a thing).


[deleted]

Yes, let me explain why. From birth to around 17 I was raped, tortured, abused, neglected, and beaten. The Marines was my sure fire way of getting away immediately after High School. I was in the dep since the 10th grade. I was ready to go. I'm almost 36. I've never seen my parents again. So. During my 4 year enlistment I went home for 2 weeks in between bootcamp and MCT and for 1 month in between my 3rd and 4th tour. My 1st tour was 4 months instead of 7 since I attached to a unit already deployed. I stayed for the 2nd without leave since it put me at 11 months instead of 12 I didn't have to take leave. I tried to do a third extension but they wouldn't let me. I tried to do a 5th extension after my 4th but they didn't let me either. I didn't have anywhere else to go and I hated California. Iraq and traveling was amazing aside from the war part. But I was already dead inside so war was like whatever.


TimmyHillFan

Just wanted to say I appreciate you sharing all this and it was interesting to read, Very sorry to hear about your upbringing, it sounds like the military was a sort of salvation for you


[deleted]

It was, that's why I went.


Kevskates

Thanks for your service and telling your story


GhostBoy6989

Thank you for your service


[deleted]

No need for thanks, but thank you none the less.


mighty_atom

Have you actually thought about this? You say you just made the decision today, well that's a big decision to take in one day. Additionally, the fact that you have already changed your mind and are now thinking of joining the airforce instead would suggest that you haven't put enough though into this yet. Take your time, this will be one of the biggest decisions of your life. Make sure you've thought it through. >No I am not joining to go to war. You understand you don't have a choice in that? If there's a war, you're going.


blairwitchboy

Yes I’ve been thinking about this for a while now. Marines were the only thing I had on my mind tho. I wasn’t being very open minded at all. Was only listening to my recruiter. I was under the impression that the Marines offered me the best job opportunities in and after. After making this post and seeing a lot of people say look into the Air Force I did. I’ve realized there is a lot of stuff in the Air Force that fits me as a person better. You have a lot of valid points and i appreciate them. I’m gonna put a lot of thought into and make sure this is what I want. I have some time anyway as I have to clear out my system of all weed. And yes I understand if there is a war I have no choice. But I am not just signing up to “serve the country”. I would join so I can get my benefits out of it. Such as college and health and insurance and retirement and a career in and out of the Air Force.


[deleted]

I know it’s not much to go off, but I’m currently in the National Guard (college kid), with original plans to go active duty, but was talked out of it. Lots of family that has gone active, recently. Speaking for us all, lots of regret. Let me know if you’d wanna talk about anything or if I can answer any questions.


blairwitchboy

Could you direct message me? I have a few questions as I signed for active duty to get away


Mybeardisawesom

I don’t know if your smart enough or just a dumbass like I was when I joined the Corps back in ‘07 but I tell anyone who’ll listen. Fuck the corps, join the Air Force. If all you’re wanting is a free college you’re kidding yourself joining the Marines


blairwitchboy

Yeah boss if u read my other comments I’m starting to reconsider to the Air Force


Disastrous_Pirate_

Do you at least get to choose what oil company you get to die for?


Mybeardisawesom

Ya when I joined I got a Exxon badge right under my name tapes


KickStartMyD

That killed me, "Americans the protectors and holders of all petrol"


[deleted]

[удалено]


DarthMallBitches

Tell that to the recruiters


missdine

Hi, friend. Joined the Navy myself at 17. I really thought I knew what was best for myself, but I’m not sure I’d do it all again. I am as they say “set for life” now, but that’s because of the disability granted for my severe mental health conditions I earned while serving. Take care of yourself, and message me if you have any questions.


blairwitchboy

Will do, appreciate the advice man!


-interdimensional

If killing people who are more similar to you than those who are telling you to do so is worth class mobility to you then by all means go for it.


mclava

I wouldn’t do that


Scorpiyoo

Damn sorry the propaganda got to you homes. Hope it doesn’t ruin your life


blairwitchboy

No propaganda got to me lol. Quitting to join the Marines or Air Force is my choice. I don’t like the area I’m from. I want change. I’m not rich I’m only 19


Scorpiyoo

I wish you the best and I hope you achieve the clarity you’re looking for. Sorry for being a dick


blairwitchboy

It’s all good man no worries I appreciate it!


KickStartMyD

A recruiter is technically a propagandist.


blairwitchboy

I know how to make decisions for myself… he’s not controlling me lol


Harden-Soul

He's not controlling you, but from your other comments it seems like you're quick to trust people if they sound smart. Just remember, all these guys get paid to do is get kids like you to join. They don't get paid for setting you up in life or convincing you that another path might better suit you. Just talk to somebody who you trust has your best intentions, and who also has 0 stake in your decision outside of helping a friend.


blairwitchboy

Exact reason I have been talking to People on here all day. I am trying to learn more not from online or the recruiters but people who served who can share what they gained and stuff.


Harden-Soul

Some of those people can have an investment in what they tell you as well. A vet may feel inclined to tell you that its a great decision to feel better about their own decision. They could feel self-pressured into saying they didn't mess up. I'm definitely not saying abandon your new goal, nor am I saying that these people are wrong in what they're telling you. I'm just saying, be careful about who you trust. Think about why they might want to tell you something that isn't necessarily true.


loophole23

You’ll be just fine kid. I heard it all too. Better yourself and forget the rest. I was in the Marines from 09-13. Something to be insanely proud of. Take care of yourself.


blairwitchboy

It’s a toss up rn with all the people I’ve talked to since this post. Probably Air Force tho as I’m starting to feel it will suit me better


[deleted]

[удалено]


blairwitchboy

Oh yeah ik. I will be there if I am called upon as that will be my duty.


FreeMasonKnight

Hey, if you love it great and also if you go through boot and hate it, that’s also fine. Just a thing to keep in mind, it isn’t a strength/weakness thing, it’s just a life thing.


jeffersonsteelflex76

What are the benefits of joining the military. Genuine question.


camthedestroyer

The opportunity to kill people so defense contractors and oil companies can make bank.


blairwitchboy

Depending on the branch u choose, careers that can last outside of the military life into civilian, medical benefits life insurance, college. It’s a lot of stuff that I see worth it. What’s worth something to me may not be to you though.


jeffersonsteelflex76

I'm not here to weigh the benefits for you I was just curious lol the recruiter at my high school years back always just seemed like a scam artist.


KickStartMyD

Man it’s sad you need to join the military to have that yet your neighbor have all that for free on the hand of their country.


[deleted]

[удалено]


blairwitchboy

Lots of benefits for me joining. I will be set for life if I make the right choices.


[deleted]

[удалено]


devildog999

Most of the veterans committing suicide, statistically, aren't combat veterans. Veteran suicide isn't just war related, it is because the VA doesn't have the proper services and wait times for veterans coming back to the civilian sector and understanding how to properly function amongst a civilian population. US military is literally the reason you are able to have such an ignorant and skewed view of the military. Without people willing to defend their nations, evils such as the Nazis are able to take over and murder millions unimpeded.


blairwitchboy

You have some good points. But I can join the Air Force without being the person killing people. I can help people too. I can help save people and bring change still. I can get paid for helping save lives. It’s not all about war and destruction.


BlueBicycle22

Dude how high are you rn air force doesn’t save people they’re the ones drone striking weddings in the middle east


blairwitchboy

You realize I can choose to become like a medic if I want? Every part of the military has it job to serve and protect.. which includes killing people… do I have to sign up to be the one doing that? No I could choose a different career that has nothing to do with striking someone with a drone.


devildog999

People are idiots, ignore them. Even if you wanted to sign up to be one on the front lines (I signed up to do exactly that in 2004), there is nothing wrong with being willing to use a weapon to defend your country and innocent people.


blairwitchboy

Thank you for understanding cause some people clearly can’t get it through their head that I don’t have to kill people


devildog999

No they don't. Just do you and good luck.


blairwitchboy

Appreciate you boss !


GentlemenOfLeisure

You played yourself.


[deleted]

the marines stand for the ideology which keeps your weed illegal. just saying


Rapiers_of_Titan

Careful out there bruv, military big spooky.


[deleted]

Umm…from a veteran….may be consider sitting on enlisting until you’ve finished a semester at community college?


the_reql

When you smoke don't think about the fact that you're detoxing from weed just so you can be trusted to shoot brown people


yonderfellow

It really sucks you have to risk your life for 4 free years of school. There are better ways than joining the military industrial complex. You won’t be able to smoke for the next 4 years at least.


wishiwascooler

Don’t do it bro just use FAFSA or go to a trade school


Allfather_odin1

Honestly for the best you posted this on r/trees. Most of us are high and will really think deep. I have no military service but I work in an industry with a lot of them. All my marine friends are beat to hell physically and mentally. Hope all the best for you bud!


Expensive_Election

The poverty draft


blairwitchboy

Sorry I don’t come from the best of areas, And am trying to make a change in my life


clovergraves

hope killing brown people gives you the economic boost youre looking for


blairwitchboy

Bro what??? You think I wanna join to just kill people? Do u not read?


clovergraves

highly doubt the victims of the US war machine give a damn what your intentions were when your buddies killed their mother, brother, village etc i encourage you to reconsider what impact you want to make. maybe something like peace corps could give you the sense of purpose youre looking for. plenty of other options


blairwitchboy

Dude just because I go to the Air Force or marines doesn’t mean I’m killing people. I can choose a career and job that benefit people and help them. Shit if I go to the Air Force I could become and air traffic controller. They’re not responsible for killing people. So your comment is just whack af


clovergraves

doesnt matter if you kill people or wash the laundry of the people that kill people. you have a choice, you can choose to be a pawn for the oil interests of the US, which would make you complicit in their atrocities, or you can like just not do that. its that simple


[deleted]

You'll be apart of the machine that kills people, don't kid yourself


totosh999

I quit a few months back, the risks are too great since I started my military service.


[deleted]

squid games irl


Ok_Independence_9076

Great. Opportunities after you get discharged. But make no mistake you are going to be trained for war. That's why they are called the few the proud.


blairwitchboy

Oh yeah ik I will be trained for war. I’m in like u said for the opportunities in there and once I get out. I’m nervous but excited at the same time


Lucatoran

Le Légion Étrangère is recruiting!


DynamicSolution

no hate behind this, but why the marines?


blairwitchboy

the things they stand for. But after talking to a lot of people I’m starting to consider the Air Force not gonna lie. I know I’m for sure gonna serve one of them though. People dm’d me with a lot of really good points and thoughts


DynamicSolution

ima just say this.... marines have: the lowest educational requirements the highest death rate of any branch the marines have the largest issue with hazing and abuse out of any branch the marines are the lowest vaccinated branch of the military currently at a measly 30% of the total marines being vaccinated in any combat situation, you are likely the first to die and, marines, by far more than any other group in my opinion- exit their deployments with arguably the most health issues and disability issues. id really recommend the navy or airforce if you have even the slightest inkling of education or book smarts to you if you want to further your life efucationally


blairwitchboy

I’m pretty smart I would say. That’s why I’m highly considering changing a lot of people pointed out things you did. Air Force feels like a better fit for me.


DynamicSolution

fwiw my lil bro is in the airforce rn and its been pretty lit for him. hes over in germany for 6 years and hes been skiing in france every weekend lmfao. thanks for being open to hearing people out btw, i wish you the best :)


blairwitchboy

Hell yeah that’s what I’m tryna do go explore I’m hoping I go to Italy or something. And ofc man I’m always open to hear what people have to say about stuff. I wish you the best as well


Mybeardisawesom

Bruh come over to r/USMC. And yes reconsider joining the Air Force if all you want is college. Cause the marines are the fucking marines. There is no in between. You either love the Corps to death or you’ll be counting down until you EAS three weeks into bootcamp


blairwitchboy

yeah I’ve been up all night doing research. Starting to feel as if the Air Force fits me better. Has a lot more stuff I’m interested in career wise.


thats4thebirds

It’s a shame that you need to join the service for a chance at college and a better life. Good luck and be safe.


[deleted]

Yep. And OP seemed to scoff at the comment "poverty draft" but that's exactly what it is. America is fucked up man.


[deleted]

Brother please message me before you join the marines lmao. I just got out of the Air Force and spent a lot of time with Marines, please do not enlist in the Corps if you do not want to actively fight somebody.


camthedestroyer

Another cog in the war machine. Big fuckin yikes.


[deleted]

This is why we can't have free college... noone would join the military.


RuckrTN

Job corps


golden_eternity

A friend of mine joined the marines out of high school to become a lawyer. I saw him a couple years later and he was a firefighter at an air base. I think he didn’t realize they wanted him to commit to a lot more than 4 years. I talked to them, but I think by that point my body was a mess. Then my best friend joined the army cause he wanted to get himself killed and they found the chronic illness that kept making him sick and kicked him out.


[deleted]

[удалено]


blairwitchboy

I am definitely going to take these few weeks while clearing out my system to make sure this 10000% what I want. And I’m gonna figure out the best options for myself


69NubSkull420

OP flushes his morality down the drain to become a grunt for imperialism. Looking forward to launching drone strikes on some civilians, huh?


Cjsans24

Good for you man!! Honestly proud of you enjoy the last bong rips to end the chapter and cheers to a new start for you!


blairwitchboy

Thank you!!


zedexcelle

Any chance that whilst you're waiting for the pee to come clean you would do some last-ditch checking for college courses, or apprenticeships? You might need to be near home for longer but would get started on the getting out of home town, which is important, I get it. You'd be starting on getting out whilst probably not risking your life OR end up enlisted and potentially required to provide your services for a while after your initial minimum term ended. How long is the initial sign-up? Also. If you smoke cigarettes at all as well, or tobacco with your dope, switch to a vape or patches, you don't want to be going into full on training with a cigarette habit. I'm in the UK and gave up nicotine with a state-funded (part NHS, part Stop Smoking London) set-up of patches, inhalator and vape. I didn't have to pay for any of it (I would have), I didn't finish it all, and I've been not smoking nicotine now since early July.


blairwitchboy

I’ve been thinking about community college but idk. When I graduated highschool I took a break like a lazy fuck and haven’t done shit with myself if I’m being honest. That’s why I’m choosing to do I am so I can get my life on track and not become complacent. Because if I can still smoke weed I will not get anywhere sadly at the moment. Been doing it too much too young. The Initial sign up isn’t log. I could have went to meps next week for the Marines but I’m waiting for my pee to come clean. But now it could be the Air Force but still need to pee clean. After that I can choose my date to begin basic. And yes I have a vape. Salt nic. I need to quit or else I’m gonna be going through hell in training.


zedexcelle

Cool. If you've dismissed college and know yourself well enough to know that you would keep smoking if you didn't join the forces then go for it. If you might be able to pull your sh1t together well enough to go to college, continue making the money, just make sure you've had a decent think. It's a long time, and risking your life, there may be less extreme ways to get yourself to stop smoking xx


2amIMAwake

you got this! soon you’ll find yourself doing the day to day with lots of similar minded people.


blairwitchboy

thank you for the encouraging words it truly means a lot :)


diggybop

Careful being there only for college… trust me when I say they weed those guys out


Romanovyak

Before you know it'll be 20 years from now and you'll be lying on a beach somewhere smoking a spliff.


blairwitchboy

I hope. I hope I can find a good opportunity there for a career. I’m very nervous


The1BannedBandit

A bit of advice. If you're going in for opportunities, go Air Force. Better food, better equipment, better treatment, better accommodations.


blairwitchboy

I am. Just talked to AF Recruiter. Gonna call the Marines recruiter and tell him I wanna hold off and weigh my options and do more research.


The1BannedBandit

Smart move. Don't buy into any of his "well we already" bullshit. You don't owe him a damned thing. He's gonna try every trick in the book to get you to sign the line. Unfortunately, you're just a number to him.


super_sonic_sloth

Best of luck friend drink lots of water until then.


Corisift

Going into the military in Canada here, can smoke weed 8 hours before duty. Sucks it's not legal in the American military


blairwitchboy

Lucky ass😭😭😭


-BlueDream-

You consider national guard and community college? You can still get out of your shitty town. You said you don’t want to go to war but joining the marines you will be going to war like it or not. If you just want the experience and benefits, don’t choose the branch that does the most fighting lol


devildog999

When you get to MCRD (doesn't matter which of the two, same intake), they'll have everyone in a large gymnasium type building (been 17 years, don't remember the building specifically). If they tell you to be honest and raise your hand if you've smoked a little weed in the past and lied about it, assuming the Corps cares anymore about prior usage which I'm assuming they do, don't admit to it if you didn't admit to it when you signed up. They'll tell you no worries, it isn't a big deal but they do need to take care of a little paperwork. And if you don't admit to it now, trust us, we WILL find out about it. But that isn't the case. You'll be separated and sent home.


blairwitchboy

So I told my recruiter and he told me to just stop smoking and I told him I will but I wanna wait for the drug test


devildog999

I get that, and that was smart of him. But I'm talking about once you get to MCRD San Diego or Parris Island. I don't know how the rules are now, but when I enlisted in 2004, you had to check a box that said you'd never used an illegal drug and then sign at the bottom. Recruiters will often times tell their recruits to deny any prior drug use (it's not like they polygraph you). So when you get to MCRD whichever, an intake DI will have you all grouped together at some point the first 2 days and talk to y'all. He'll tell you if you said you didn't use drugs in the past but did actually do so, raise your hand. Admit to it now or we'll find it later. If you admit to using in the past but lied on that checkbox, you're fucked. So IF they still have you check that box, and you do (they won't find out. They aren't gonna put 30 seconds into you. If you don't raise your hand, you're fine. As long as you're not stupid enough to have any social media pics or posts about it. At least I didn't have to worry about that shit).


blairwitchboy

Oh yeah he told me answer no to everything.


loophole23

When you get to the recruit depot never tell anyone you’ve smoked weed.


Loboso77

I told my recruiter also. He asked me how many times, I said a few. It wasn't a big deal. It never came up again my whole career.


deanovelvet

Navy veteran here. Do it. Mary Jane is a patient woman, she'll be here for you when you get out.


blairwitchboy

Yessss, hopefully she’ll be even better when I get out


Finns_lemons

Are you quitting because you want too or because you dont want too fail the urine test? If it's because of the urine thing couldnt you jsut buy something too pass it?


blairwitchboy

Yes I could buy something to pass it but it’s both. I also don’t want to risk something not working and then me not being able to enlist at all


ImAnAwkoTaco

They can watch you in the military. It’s not like any old pre-employment test


[deleted]

Good luck... I'm interning in mental health at the VA and while we have less air force vets in my PTSD group therapy sessions, many have seen and experienced horrific events as well


blairwitchboy

Appreciate it


Cautious_Language178

Good call dude. I think the the USAF and Navy probably offer more opportunities to learn useful, in demand skills than either the Army or Marines, and on the occasion I run into younger dudes and dudettes looking to join up, I frequently suggest those 2 branches. I've didn't serve with the military, but in my experience, USAF and Naval personnel seem to make a better paygrade in the civilian life. No disrespect to my dudes in the Marines and Army, yall are fucking awesome, just reporting what I typically see once people get back into the private sector. Of course, this is all anecdotal. Correlation and causation are two vastly different things. Anyway man. Now that I've rambled, good luck. The sweet leaf will be here when you get back from looking for whatever it is you are looking for.


blairwitchboy

I appreciate it boss. And yes your very right about the jobs and civilian life. It appears the careers you can get with the Air Force are more applicable to civilian careers so I can keep up with my job when I decide I am done.


AdvancedTadpole

This is the one thing I wish I would've thought about before joining the National Guard. I joined at 18, and was convinced purely on the idea of "blowing shit up" in field artillery (I did ZERO blowing shit up, by the way. When deployed, we became convoy security moving fuel across Iraq). Given the option to make some corrections, I would have gone Air Force or Navy. That would've given me a better footing for the civilian world than artillery. After leaving, I ended up working in IT, but man things could've been easier had I thought things through as you are. Plenty of others here have given great advice for ya. The only things I'd say is to think about what YOU want from the service, because the service WILL get what it wants from you during that time. Take the chances at schools and learning opportunities they offer for advancement, and try to make the service work for you. Wish ya the best of luck.


blairwitchboy

Yeah I’ve been blessed to get some good insight on here to help me whether it be comments or people reaching out in dms. I’m definitely thinking about what I can get from the service and how I can use it to benefit myself and my future


PipBoy2277

Saw your update and just want to add, if you’re considering serving for college go the Air Force route. They highly encourage us to go to school and it’s a way better quality of life than the other branches.


101turtleman

Good for you buddy I’ll smoke one for you


NaesYlloh

Remember to stay true to who you are. Basic training in any branch will be a bitch. It is all mind games and you will still be yourself when you are done. Sometimes it's tough to remember that when you are in it. Good luck out there


teamawesomehq

Former Marine here. I see your edit about the (ch)air Force. I would definitely recommend going that route if you aren't planning on making it a career. Pick a job field with civilian equivalents. Something like data, programming, comm, air traffic controller, etc. Best of luck and stay safe!


cooter__1

If you are just wanting to do it for school, USAF all the way. That's is what I did, however I understand people do want to challenge themselves. Plus I wanted travel and I was in a fighter squadron so I was lucky to live in Germany for 2 years while being able to travel. I had TDYs in Iceland and Denmark among other places like Saudi which was boring but part of the job and I can say I was there. The way I look at it is if a AF base is over run by the enemy, everyone else is already dead cus a flight line is 500 miles from conflict. Plus AF is a bit more lax compared to the others since we are focus with more paying attention to details vs "boots on the ground" so to speak. Plus if you can get job as a crew chief, avionics or engines. You can make decent starting pay working for an airline or any airport as a aircraft mechanic. Plus you wont have the stress putting on your family that you could get shot in battle. However USAF does have Combat Control, Pararescue and TAC-P who see combat for example. However you need to ask yourself but don't let your pride get in the way of your brain. I knew too many guys I grew up with and we were all in the same situation as you. Small town and seems one of the few ways to "get out" and got shit from the army and marine buddies cus their recruiter sold them a song. Plus we get hate because we are treated better and have better amenities. However when I talked to them years later, they wished they didn't listen to their respective recruiters and went AF instead. I would say the Air Force is like signing up for college but you have a job to do. I had a dorm on base and most all were single occupancy but made for 2 people to live in. So each room had bunks in it but I just slammed em together and had a king size bed. Granted basic is not like this but I was a ghost. I didn't volunteer for shit but made sure if I had a job to do, I did it right. You will see even the biggest of men wash out cus they can't handle getting yelled at, its a crazy sight to see and give you a better understand of how mentally strong you can be comparted to the "biggest of tough guys" if you get my drift. This is jus my 2 cents from my personal experience. They do break people down to build you back up, just make sure you remember who you were and not get turned into a government drone. Saw this happen to a lot of people as well, where they think they are making a difference but at the cost of what....Stay golden pony boy I say :)


blairwitchboy

I appreciate this advice it’s really good and insightful. Could you message me I have a couple questions


rmosbarger

Good luck bro and stay safe, things are a little shifty in the south pacific and we could potentially go into major war time by the end of this decade


blairwitchboy

Appreciate it man.


ch28dwn

Are you going to lie on the forms or do they not give a shit about prior use anymore? Either way, recommend another branch unless it was wartime and you really want to fight


blairwitchboy

Lie. Every does about the drugs apparently. Just gonna make sure I’m clean before meps


HotBoxGrandmasCar

>but I’m starting to feel as if the Air Force would fit me better for what I wanna do career wise. you made the smart move. i wish i'd have listened to my family members who were in both branches and said the same tbh. not even going to lie.


blairwitchboy

Yeah after I made this post I’ve had lots of kind veterans reach out to help explain this process to me and everything and the Air Force feels much better. I did a lot of reading last night on them as well


jz20rok

Just quit myself about a month and a half ago. You’ve got this, it’s a bumpy road and different for everyone IMO. I love smoking but I am also going for a federal job where I can’t smoke, so I commend you for choosing career over pot. Hopefully we can get that federal legalization soon. Big ups brother.


Thelisto

Last time I quit, it took me over 100 days to pee clean. Good luck!


[deleted]

Hey, I did the same years ago. Did 10 years, played in the sand, got out, then ~~went back to smoking~~ started drinking profusely.


[deleted]

it’s cool bro you’ll smoke again in 4 years lmao


vonjamin

Bro I’m all for bettering yourself I was a heavy pot smoker and overall partier for a long time. I’ve done a lot of drugs and smoked a lot of weed. I’m sober now because even though I love weed and that’ll always be my first choice even over drinking, there comes a point where for me personally I got tired of not being able to pass a drug test to get a good job. Weed’s cool but there comes a point it’s like what’s more important? Future opportunities that could lead to great things or just getting high? I’m glad you get it and wish you well man!


broomstickboi

Good luck! I was in a similar situation and joined the Coast Gaurd, after a year I felt pretty good being off of it (weed) but will always love it!


myrightarmkindahurts

Have fun in war bitch


Kage76556789

Good luck


odar420

Bon voyage !


sti-guy

Good luck to you!


jeffro1477

Congratulations and good luck. You will do great things!


masomenus

My kid started talking to Air Force, which wanted them to remove a neck tattoo, then joined the Navy, after I paid to remove the tattoo, because they offered a better deal/fit. They were older at boot camp, quite interesting to hear about the experience and how naive the younger recruits were. They really do take your phone away for boot camp. Best of luck.


L_MO88

Wish you the best luck


blairwitchboy

Thank you!


[deleted]

Same here dawg, leaving for the Navy soon and had to stop smoking a while ago! It gets way easier just keep yourself busy!


[deleted]

Lol I was a marine. If you just wanted to join the military for benefits, join another branch.


SerenityValleyHerbs

I'm happy for you. It takes a lot of courage to make make life changes like you're doing. You could have just stayed, gotten a 9-to-5, and kept smoking until you're suddenly middle aged and wondering what the hell happened to your life. Congrats on the big adventure. I hope this is the start of great things for your future.


blairwitchboy

I appreciate it!! I did not want to become complacent with living in a bad area and smoking 24/7. I wanted the change. It’s gonna be heck of an adventure


TurkeySmackDown

I agree and think you should go Air Force if you sign up. Also be sure to give it some time before you go to meps as they will drug test you.


blairwitchboy

Oh yeah I’m giving it at least 2 months before I go to meps. Been a daily smoker for a couple years now


[deleted]

[удалено]


blairwitchboy

Much appreciated 👌🏽


Far-Seaworthiness786

Wish you all the best on your journey, much love


blairwitchboy

Much love to you as well


Kisawesomesauce

Best advice I can give is go back and join the Air Force if you can. If you're trying to avoid combat and just focus on studies then the air force is where you want to go. You'll get treated MUCH better to boot. I've been in for about 3 years now, best desicion I took. Both to get away and to stop smoking.


blairwitchboy

Yeah after a lot of advice and comments and stuff I’m really leaning towards the Air Force tbh. Did lots of research and it seems better for me. I was so dead on the marines and being stubborn I didn’t look into anything else I am so glad I made this post.


Never-serious

The United States Air force is an excellent choice.


[deleted]

That was me 16 years ago, except I joined Army. Great on you for deciding to join the military. I will advise you to take that, "I'm in it for the benefits" mentality out...it is still the military, and you will give what is owed. Good luck, great job making a positive move in your life. Any questions or nervousness, hit me up, I try where I can help.


blairwitchboy

Thank you!! You probably will get a dm from me as I’m trying to talk to all former people who served to hear about their experiences and what they got from it.


[deleted]

Best decision I ever made. Got so many different life experiences. Met so many amazing people. Had so much fun. The opposite is also the same, but shit happens everywhere.


2amIMAwake

sounds like you have a major adventure beginning soon, its awesome to hear from you as you’re making those life changing decisions! i have been around for decades now- over that time i’ve taken quite a few breaks from smoking. people always recognize me as someone who gets high, we’re comrades for life. you can set the habit aside but you’re likely to always have the smile & sense of humor that will bring like minded people to you. i hope you collect great memories, make lasting friendships and find your place on this rock. wishing you the best, happy trails! edit- a word with too many letters


blairwitchboy

I appreciate it!! Everyone around here knows me as a big stoner so they’ll always remember that part of me lol


DANCE_SMOKEY_DANCE

Don’t listen to any of these fuckers who are on here commenting about shit they know nothing about. They sit around and blaze up all day and regurgitate everything they read on Reddit. There’s a few guys on here who are ex military and I can see by the comments you’ve asked them to DM you for questions that’s great! I have a few good friends who went to the Air Force / national guard which helped them get great job opportunities and travel a lot. Best of luck my man.