Yes, I am a squid...

[navypearl]

And I'm sorry to invade your forum :P but I really need some advice...I have been enlisted in the Navy for about 2 1/2 years...ever since I was younger, I had wanted to be a Marine. But honestly, I never thought I would actually join the military, I figured I'd just go to college. Well I made a final decision one day, and called a Marine recruiter and a Navy recruiter, because I was interested in being an FMF corpsman someday...Well anyways, I foolishly let my brother and cousins talk me out of it. Everything just seemed to happen so fast, before I knew it I was in Great Lakes wondering what the &$#* I was doing there instead of Parris Island...

Anyways, fast forward....I was the AROC (second in command) of my boot division, graduated top of my A-School class, and have gotten EPs on every single eval for the past 2 and a half years. I am qualified in numerous postions in my command, including ones that are traditionally E-5 and above (I am an E-4). I hate how lackadaisical Sailors are. I thought I was joining the military. I do more than most of my direct supervisors do, without complaint, while they whine and they aren't even doing anything!!

Some of my best friends are Marines, and they have always said they don't know why I didn't join that branch. I honestly think I am just worried about not making it. I hear about how many girls don't get through it. I really want to do this. My enlistment with the Navy ends in December of 2008. I am in meteorology/oceanography...but I hate it. With a passion. By that time I will be 23 years old. Is it reasonable to think that it's possible? Also, if you were in my boots, would you go enlisted or officer?

Anything you want to say would be much appreciated. I look up to you gals, seriously, you're all amazing :-)

[MCIWS Sgt]

Navy Pearl,
When I walked into the recruiting office 8 years ago I told them I wanted to speak to my father before signing anything. My father's advise to me was "Do you want to look back in 30 years and say I wish I would have?" With this advice I went and signed up...it was the best decision I have ever made and I would do it again a thousand times. Sounds like you are passionate enough and if you don't become a Marine...you will always wonder "what if". You say you are afraid of not making it...If you want it bad enough, not "making it" is not an option. Marines don't "try" they "do". I was 20 when I went through boot camp and it was a little hard being older and dealing with the maturity level...but you adapt and overcome and teach. You are not happy in your current position and you have excelled in the Navy...sounds like you are bored and need more of a challenge...Marine Corps is just the thing. When I was in boot camp we had a recruit who was 29 years old, former Army or Navy (I can't remember which), she was on an age waiver for prior service and she was determined and made it. My advice to you is "in life...have no regrets". You let your family talk you away from the Marines...now join the Marines for yourself and no one else. Do what makes you happy. I am not positive but you might be able to get out of your contract early and join the Marines...I would talk to your local Marine Corps recruiter. As for going enlisted or officer...well I am a big fan of Mustangs (joining enlisted and then going officer)...taking that path myself...however you have done enlisted Navy...so that is a decision that must be based on what you want out of your career. It is a gut check...are you a leader? Do you have what it takes? How bad do you want it? Hope this helps...feel free to e-mail me with questions.

[Anonymous]

navy, you totally need to switch. like now. you will be an awesome marine. i'm 23 and i went to bootcamp when i was 22. the age thing will help you more then it will hurt you. you'll be a lot happier and in a much better place.
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