Anyone in or been in the Airforce? Thinking about joining. . .

I haven't, but have a grandson who is just completing his sixth year. He joined in Dec 2000 to get some experience while making up his mind what he wanted for his future. Their first day, the recruits were asked why they joined. Some answered as he did, others had a specific trade they wished to learn, there were many reasons. None matched what their commander told them -- that they had joined the military and they would be taught how to shoot, bomb and generally how to kill people.

I am very proud of his commitment, his maturity and his self-discipline. His training polished what was already there. But they really did teach him how to make bombs -- and how to deliver them.

Are you prepared to do so?

 

With that conviction, talk with a recruiter. But know that you most likely will not be able to choose your post. My granddaughter is engaged to a young man in seminary who is considering becoming a chaplain. There are many ways to serve.

 

My son is in the Air Force (even though I was Army, wonder why he didn't go that way?). Anyhow, it has been good for him in many ways and he has matured alot. He did a tour in Iraq and will be going again shortly. I would recommend that you take nothing longer than a four year enlistment to start out. My son took 6 and now wishes he could be on his way. Also, there is quite a bit of drinking, swearing and all that in the military. Always has been and I guess always will, so you would have to deal with that in your own way. Overall though, it was good for me and it's been good for my son.

 

Yes, if you find that the Air Force is where you want to stay you can always reenlist. The recruiters will try to get you to sign for a longer initial enlistment, and promise a bigger bonus, but you should ignore all that and go with your own plan.

There are station of choice options, or at least there used to be. I think that only applies to your first duty station, and after the first 2 years they can move you.

 

May I ask why go to the military to get to Utah? Why not just go to Utah if that is what you feel you need to do?

Not to discount the military at all, I am very grateful for everyone who serves our country. It just seems like a wrong reason to join the military. But maybe I am missing something.

 

oh ok, thanks for the clarification.

I have had several friends go to the military. I know they give options at some points of what places to go, etc. But I am pretty sure they do not have to go by those and most times just put you where they want you to go despite what recruiters might say beforehand.

So you could join the AF and finish your time and still never have gotten to Utah? Just something to think about. I pray the Lord shows you clearly what He wants.

 

Pray,Pray,Pray, and if God wants you in the AF in Utah that is were youll be.

 

Having been in the Air Force during war-time, 1964-1975, entire Viet Nam Era, I would advise that you probably will not be where you may want during a 4-year term of enlistment. The needs of the service come first, second and third in priorities. Getting to a specific base in a particular state is highly unlikely--especially in Utah, unless you have an extra measure of congressional clout.

If you want to be a world-wide missionary, volunteer for a Peace Corp type of job. They will probably send you to places the location of which is more than remote.

Seek first the Kingdom of God...

Selah,

Bro. James

 

I served in the USAF. I got the position that I wanted (communications), but not the location. When you fill out the form which asks where you'd like to be stationed, put Utah as all three of your choices. Once you are in, you'll be asked again, near the end of basic training. Same answer. Can't hurt.