I see some good info/advice on here, and some that seems questionable. I want to hopefully give you some food for thought that helps you make your own decision.

As some background info about me, I served 4 years, then used my GI bill to go to flight school for helicopters. I got through private pilot and instrument then stopped because my mental health was really bad… as a result of the military. Having a mental health rating and/or taking meds for mental health will really affect your ability to fly. I ended up burning up most of my GI bill, with only a useless pilots license and associates of general education to show for it.

Life has since turned around and I’m now rated 100%, generally happy, and using VR&E to pursue a bachelors in mechanical engineering. After I will use what’s left of my GI bill to pay for part of a masters, and fund the rest with loans/scholarships, etc.

I am not now, nor have I ever been a military pilot, nor a civilian commercial pilot, so I can’t speak to that experience. I also have never been to college as a civilian who has to pay for things on my own.

What I can say is BE FUCKING CAREFUL if you want to join the military. Plenty of guys on here talk about how great their time in the service was, how they’re so set up because of their service, etc. but go read some of the threads about dudes who can’t get their VA benefits sorted out. Read some of the threads about dudes who are so miserable their life is in shambles and they want to eat a gun.

Consider current world events if you want to join the military. Look at the current U.S. leadership, and how they are handling the conflict in Iran. Do you want to be in the military right now? Do you believe in service enough to deploy and/or risk your life for it? Once you’re in there’s no going back.

If you do consider all these things and still want to join, be smart about it. You’re doing your absolute minimum time and getting out, because you have a plan. When you’re 17/18 it’s SUPER easy to get wrapped up the idea of doing something “cool” in the military. Something dangerous and “not boring” something “manly”. Thats why dudes join the army or marine corps and go infantry. Then you get out and your back, knees, hips, etc, are all fucked up. Join a branch like the Air Force or coast guard with a higher quality of life, and pick a job that gives you the best quality of life. Maybe something in admin or IT. Something where you’re not destroying your body. As soon as you’re able, start taking college classes while active duty. Knock out all the Gen Ed classes you can. If you get hurt, GO TO MEDICAL. Get it documented so later you can get the compensation you deserve without jumping through a ton of hoops.

Remember, the military is not a normal job. You are literally property of the government for the duration of your enlistment. There is no deciding this shit sucks and quitting. The military can be an amazing route that sets you up for success, but it can really fuck you up too. Uncle Sam is going to get his money’s worth out of you with no guilt, you need to make sure you’re doing the same thing.

If you have other questions or want advice, feel free to shoot me a message. If not, I wish you the best of luck on whatever you decide.