Why Women Stay In The Military

Tell us why you stay(ed) in the service. If you're making it a career, tell us why.

Looking over the postings here has made me think back on my own career and why I've stayed on active duty in the Air Force for 20 plus years. I attended college on an ROTC scholarship, met my husband (also in ROTC) in a physics class, was commissioned about a month after we were married, and went to my first assignment after fighting to get assigned to the same base as my new husband. I had always told myself I would stay in as long as I felt like I was making a contribution and I could live with the impacts to my family. So here I sit nearly 22 years later, still having fun, still doing exciting work in research and development, still married and thinking about what I want to do next.

decided to stay because I had recently launched a new technology development program in my organization--something exciting with the potential of adding transformational capabilities to the warfighter. I didn't want to walk away from it in it's infancy; I felt I'd made a commitment to the people working on the program and to my leadership. Also, there was this excitement in seeing other people get excited and want to be a part of it. It's now a joint program and I regularly interact with scientists and program managers from the other DoD components. Not bad for a 40-something physics geek! I've learned more about physics, myself, other people, and leadership in the Air Force than I could have anywhere else. I've had opportunities to see the major regions of the US and my kids have been able to experience those places as well. I've managed to maintain my focus on making a contribution, even if I've had to do it at a lower level to make sure we could keep the impacts to our family manageable.

All that said, perhaps the most exciting opportunity I've had in my career was the chance to mentor a female captain who currently works for me. I gave her the boost she needed and it's been truly exciting to see her take off and soar on her own. She's got a great future in front of her and it's been an honor to be a part of it.

I was 22(1/2) when I joined the Air Force. I wanted to go into the Navy, but they "had their female quota" for the area. Whatever. I medically retired three years ago and never missed a nights rest thinking if it was the right choice all those years ago. I met my husband while we were stationed in Crete, Greece. Paradise at times, Hell at others. The bomb threats, and anti-Americanism was a all too real, but we learned about "life" there. My children will never know what it is like to be an AF brat, but they know about soldiers, war, and that mom and now dad are no longer in uniform. The military ins not for everyone, but I am satisfied with the life it provided me.

I enlisted in the Air Force when I was 17 because I was sentenced to an alcoholic mother that didn't care if I was alive or not. Life didn't seem to present many options to a girl from a small town of 2000 people where white trash was busting at the seams. Something better had to be out there. It sounds silly but when I saw the movie "Top Gun" (yes, I know it was the Navy) and my spirit soured! I had to be a part of it!

I went in 3 months after I graduated from High School with the attitude that I had nothing to lose and that I could finally live my life without someone beating me down. Looking back, it was the best choice I ever made. After 2 years in active duty, I "Palace Chased" into an A-10 Air National Guard base in the Mid West (my ex-husband was a psycho and he couldn't handle me being in so that was my compromise to at least stay affiliated) and have been there ever since.

At the ANG base, I have found the most fulfilling aspect of my life. In the civilian sector, I'm a financial analyst for a surgical company...thank God, they support my military career and allow me to have all of the time I need to contribute to it. When I'm at the base, I'm one of two women (there are 30 men also) that are Munitions Systems Specialists, i.e. AMMO Troops. I get the element of danger and excitement on a monthly basis.

The benefits I get from this situation highly out weigh the negatives. The most important is that I maintain a normal life like everybody else. I own a home, land and have a wonderful fiancé (I dropped the psycho 5 years ago) that is very supportive of my life even though he hasn't been in the Marines for several years. The military provides a remedy to the mundane lifestyle that I would have otherwise. I travel extensively to amazing places and am recognized for my achievements as a "troop" because I work hard and I know my job very well...not because I'm a woman.

The most amazing aspect of my military life is the relationships I have with the other AMMO Troops that I work with. In the Guard, you don't move from base to base (unless you want to) so I've been with the same people for 9 years. The bond I have with them is stronger than I could ever have with my family or even my husband when I get married. I'm grateful that he understands. I've read several times of the sexual harassments and alienation that a lot of military women are exposed to when they are in. I have not experienced any of it. I've been very fortunate.

During our weekend duties, the guys are the ones that I put my life into their hands when we walk into the Bomb Dump. There is not a more pure element of trust that can be experienced outside of a family. When we deploy to the wars, all of our lives blend together and we become a family within ourselves. All of a sudden I become a wife, a mother, a councilor and a little sister to all of them. When we leave our homes not knowing when or if we will go home again we do everything in our power to take care of each other. I've laughed with them and cried with them. I've even written love letters to their wives when they knew what they wanted to say but didn't know how to say it.

I went into the USAF at the young age of 18 years old, fresh out of High School back in 1971. I went in because my Father served in the Navy and the Air Force. It was an experience I'll never forget, because I stayed in for 20 years. I started off as an Administrative Specialist for 6 years and then crossed trained into the Security Police Law Enforcement field. I finally found my dream job. I would have went in this field sooner but they weren't excepting females in the Law Enforcement field when I first came in. I travelled to many places like Korat RTAFB, Thailand, RAF Alconbury England and Korea twice. I feel such pride when I think of all the men and women I met along the way in my Air Force career. There have been good times and bad, but I never felt I made a mistake entering the Air Force. I feel such a sense of pride now seeing my son is entering the Air Force this August 2001 and will be pursuing a Military Working Dog Handler position in the Security Forces (seeing it has been renamed since I left the Air Force in 1991). I can't believe it has been 10 years since I retired for the Air Force. All I can say, if you want a meaningful career, want to travel to far away places and meet other people from other countries and learn their customs and truly see how good you have in in the United States. Join the military and see and be all you can in your lifetime. You'll never regret it

I spent 4 years in the Navy and was at a crossroads when I got out. I wanted to cross rate but couldn't seem to get the answers I wanted so at the end of my enlistment I left. From the first day of my new civilian life I knew I had made a mistake. The military has so much to offer from the benefits to a sense of confidence to knowing someone out there is willing to give you a chance if you are willing to learn. I am now in the process of trying to get back in. In the past year I have come to realize that the Military life fits me best and I look forward to the new opportunities that await me.

I stay in the Marine Corps, because I can. I believe that I am just as good even better than many of my counterparts (male and female). Yes, I too have experienced the racism and sexism that we all know exists. However, I can tell you what I do to offset this behavior. I strive to do my best at all times. I stand up for myself and others when it is needed. I continually work out 3-5 times a week. I try to get along with everyone. You never know when you may need someone's help. I may not be the fastest Marine. But I guarantee if I'm not making it, there are probably a load of other Marines not making it as well (male and female). You got to be strong in this business. Whether they like you or not, that's just the fact of the matter. I would never quit as a result of another's jealousy and disregard. I have been in for 16 years. I've completed a successful tour on the drill field and have trained officers at OCS for 3 summers. I'm good and I don't need anyone else to tell me so. Unfortunately the Marine Corps has been unable to recognize my abilities and have yet to recognize me for promotion to the next rank. This bothers me yet it will never break me. I am still the best and will continue to serve for as long as it is God's will.

I've been in the Navy for one year and have already been promoted to a Petty Officer Third Class. I'm currently stationed at a Naval Air Station out of Fallon and TOPGUN (the pilot training department) is attached to Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center (the command at which I reside). Administration is basically what I do. All correspondence coming in or out of this command is routed through the Admin. department that I work in. Secretarial work may not sound too demanding but today's Navy is running at a very fast pace and every action results in paper work, therefore our Admin. office is constantly busy. But the great thing about the military to me is I have concerns other than just my "rate" (job title). There are numerous opportunities that the Navy offers for it's Sailors. We have the privilege to choose various collateral duties. We have the privilege to pursue college courses and even hold a second job if we'd like. Not to mention all of the fabulous memories I've accumulated since enlisting. I'm 20 years old and have a long way to go so in the mean time I plan to take full advantage of all the Navy has to offer.

I enlisted in the Navy in December 1975, by 1980 I was ready to quit, I had just about had it with the "you are taking our billets" and "women don't make good mechanics" among other things. Then in 1982 I became a single Mom. That was the deciding factor for me, whether I liked it or not I had someone I was responsible for. Things got better the longer I stayed in, and I met my husband in Virginia. We retired together in 1994.

I enlisted in the Marine Corps in January 1982. I was barely 17 and not yet graduated from San Fernando High School. I joined the Marine Corps because I wanted to escape the area that I grew up in. I wanted better opportunities. I wanted an adventure. Watch out what you ask for because you will probably get it. I have had one adventure after another. In the beginning I was very young (maybe too young) and I went along with the flow. I made some stupid mistakes. I was not liked much. I was not a "Top Notch" performer. I even had NJP. I did not have any goals to be the best leader or the best Marine. I simply wanted to have FUN!! Which I did.

I scuba dived in Okinawa, I "tubed" in San Antonio Texas, I marched in a 4th of July Parade in downtown Detroit Michigan, I participated in numerous ceremonies ranging from New York City to Washington State, I gave Christmas presents to Canadian Indians, I ate a bowl of ice cream in the Rock Hard Cafe in Tokyo Japan, and I went shopping for my children in Osang Korea, and I ran in several mud runs "Volksaulf" in California.

In the beginning I intended to do my four years in the Marine Corps and get out. I was stubborn and not easily tamed. I did not take the Marine Corps seriously. But something happened to me. I got out of the Marine

client. I quit and said "screw this" and went back into the Marine Corps and never looked back.

The road from that point has been extremely difficult. I have had to fight all the way, even with myself. I have had few ups and many downs. I have failed but I have succeeded. I am a Gunnery Sergeant now. I no longer look at the Marine Corps as "Fun". It is now my life. I want to be the best Leader I can be. I strive to be the best Marine I can be. I take my life as a Gunnery Sergeant very, very seriously. I am responsible for the Mission and for the welfare of my Marines. I am the teacher, the mentor and the disciplinarian. I am the

screw up and I must modestly accept the seldom praise of my seniors. I must take the blame for my Marines mistakes and I must praise them when they "do a good job". I must be the first in line for the anthrax shots and the gas chamber and the last one in line for chow and pay. I must be at work at 0600 and leave work everyday at 1800. More importantly, to some, I must forget I am a woman and a mother when the mission requires it. I must be totally unemotional and stoic in front of my Marines when I want to cry and fall to the ground weeping and sobbing when I get word that one of my children gets hurt or is sick and I am very far away on a six deployment that comes every eighteen months.

I did not intend to stay in the Marine Corps for 18 years. I did not know that I would come to love my life and love my Marines. I did not know that, I, a young immigrant short Mexican woman from San Fernando could have such an impact on people. I did not know that one day young men and women would look up to me. That they would come to me young, stubborn, restless and unsure of the future and I would guide them through "My Marine Corps" to accomplish the Mission, protect this wonderful country, and make something special of themselves. I am now getting young Marines that are 17 and 18 years old. It is interesting how my life has come a full circle. I am however prepared, fully experienced and willing to take them on as my new challenges. The last thing I have to say is that one day I hope my sons are proud of their Mother.

I joined the Navy because it is what I felt the Lord wanted me to do. I have had a desire to be in the military since I was in High School. I didn't join immediately after High School but waited 5 years. That gave me the time to mature enough to handle being away from home...I'm a momma's girl. Being a CTR in the Navy is the most wonderful job. I have been to 13 countries and do not regret ever joining. I've served in a joint military

environment, on shore, on a ship and am now an instructor. I have learned to look past some of the things that I has pre-conceived ideas about and be more open minded. I fully plan on gaining a commission in the Navy and hope to make it a full 20 years, if that is the Lord's will for my life. I have definitely grown into a much stronger lady in the 7 short years I have been in. Go NAVY!!!

I always knew I wanted to join the Air Force. When I was thirteen I started sending in the little post cards they used to put in magazines to get more information and they politely wrote me back and asked me to check back in 4 years! In May of 1981 I entered Basic Training at Lackland AFB, TX. I was 17 years old and fresh off the farm, literally. I've spent the last 18 years in the AF and have painted airplanes, been an Aeromedical Technician and now am a First Sergeant. I have enjoyed every minute of my career and am not done yet. I plan on making CMsgt and staying in as long as I am still having fun. For anyone who may be thinking about making the military a career I would highly recommend it. The people are some of the smartest, hardworking, loyal people you will ever meet. The Air Force is my family, no matter where I go and what I do I always have family around.

I retired from the Navy in Jan of 1999 after 24 years. I have to say enlisting in the Navy and staying in was the best decision I ever made. I've been all over the world either being stationed overseas (Europe and Far East) stateside (Florida, Virginia, Maryland, Alaska & Hawaii) or traveling. The only thing I regret is not having the opportunity to go to sea. I think I had one of the best and most rewarding jobs ever. I was a Cryptologic Technician (Collection) (CTR). I was able to go to college and eventually earning a Masters degree (doing most of it while watch standing). My first three duty stations I was the only female in my section. Sure the guys gave me a hard time and honestly didn't want me around but the mission always came first so they never slacked up on my training and making me part of the team/family. I miss the Navy, the friends and camaraderie. I'm proud to have served my country. To all you shipmates out there full steam ahead. Stay Navy.

I joined the Marine Corps 22+ years ago. I spent 3 wonderful educating years in there, but I got out because my time was up.

My dad retired with 20+ years from the Corps, which is why I chose to join in the first place....I had a great time while I was in but it was time to get on with my life. I neither regret joining nor getting out...

The military has been very good to me. For the most part, it was a good life for my brothers, and my dad, and even my sister for awhile. I have never regretted the twenty plus years I have been a part of the Air Force. It has been a way of life for my family since I was a young teen-ager and my about-to-be new stepdad came home from his second tour Vietnam. He never had much rank on his sleeve but he made us all proud for his contribution. We didn't know what the military was like before than except what we saw in the movies or on the news. Being a part of his life in the Army made me realize there was more to the military than combat and USO shows too. My dad showed me that when you believed in something worthwhile, and worked hard, no matter what obstacles were in front of you, they could be leveled. The Army was the path my sister and brothers chose, but I knew the Air Force was going to be my way of life. The Air Force personnel I spoke to before making my life decision seemed more in control of their careers. I knew I couldn't be an officer going in and an AF enlisted member appeared to be held in a higher respect than the other services. I started late, but I believe I have made my own contributions. I have been fortunate enough to have been a part of each AF component in my career. Also, my life would have been more difficult without the support of my supervisors and the other members I served with. To succeed you have to learn to rely on one another. But you also have to learn to rely on yourself. There were some hard and rough times; like facing up to an officer that - I didn't need to be at home, pregnant or fondled, or by the 'good ol' boy' Sgt that - I could handle being on the flightline in cold Korean winter as well as anybody. (It is certain I shivered as well as the other mechanic next to me trying to pull up the panel on the F15 to get to the fuel panel.) It was hard making the difficult decision to separate to the reserves rather than being away from my fairly new husband for another two years. More difficult still when he and I separated again several years later, wounded, but no less wiser for the experience. It has been a great twenty years, I shall miss it when I can no longer report for duty. Long after I have hung up my uniform I will still be thanking God for giving me the opportunity to serve.

I am in the Coast Guard, and we are a Life Saving Organization, But the key words are life saving. When I first joined the military when I was eighteen straight out of high school. I had a tremendous amount of pride and integrity. Upon arrival to my first unit in Coos Bay Oregon, I learned that pride and integrity will not get you through the day, and that you needed dedication along with it. The dedication needed was to be able to give your all at any hour of the night, and any second of the day. Without all these three I wouldn't of made it through my first unit. My second unit was a ship out of Seattle Wa, this unit is where I started to develop my leadership skills. I had many people both men and women working for me. Not only was it hard to make the right decisions, but it was more difficult for me to sleep at night after making them. The first class Boatswainmate I worked with would drill into my head "You need to treat people like crap, step on toes if you want to be listened to, otherwise you will not be taken seriously" This was hard for me one because in one way or another I had developed a relationship with the people that were with me day in and day out, and although it was hard to accept these people were my family. I moved on to a small boat station in Port Huron, Mi. By this time I had made Third Class Boatswainmate. When I arrived at my unit I was still grasping all the new responsibility that was given to me. I was in charge of a watch section, that responds to Search and Rescue and Law Enforcement. I Never had a problem with maintaining my head, and getting the job done. Throughout my Coast Guard experience I have learned and taken lessons from good and bad leaders, and the bad leaders sometimes I let influence me more. Now I am a Yeoman at a Coast Guard Group. I met and fell in love with my husband. And am starting to get my degree at college. You may think typical women in the military "When the going gets tough..quit" Well the going did get tough for me and for awhile I thrived from it, and then when it got old I decided to prevail with the best solution. First it is God, then it is my family, then it is my career, because someday when I look at my life I want to say I lived it in the right order, and knew my priorities. Sometimes I miss my job of driving boats and doing boardings, but when I come home at night and see my husband it makes me put things into perspective. If I am a janitor at McDonalds to help make ends meet when I get out of the Coast Guard, it doesn't matter to me. I love my life now, and I enjoyed my life then, and I have learned a tremendous amount from my experiences, but no job in the world is important enough for me to sell my soul, and forget what's important. For those individuals that never see how important the first two are...I pray for you that you will.

I have just passed the two and a half year mark of being in the Army. I LOVE what I do! I mean it is not all glitz and glory, cause0530 comes awful fast each morning and details never cease. Even so, the Army has given me some sort of direction in life. I am an SPC promotable and will most likely be promoted soon. The Army gives me everything I need. A place to live, clothes on my back and food in my stomach.They might not be the best but I know that I can count on the Army to be there.I am getting a formal education as well (college classes at night).

I plan to be the first female Sergeant Major of the Army. I also would like to attend Drill Sergeant school and be an instructor. I really love what I do and I have never regretted my decision to BE ALL I CAN BE! Much love and respect to all women who serve our country.

remote to Korea in order to get a B.O.P. It worked! He got stationed back in Alaska. I joined the ANG as a traditional. After a year, I found a full time Active Guard Reserve (AGR) slot. I get all the benefits of active duty, a job fixing aircraft, which they originally trained me to do, and no chance of getting orders, I get to stay in

Five years ago, I was at my friend's house when an army recruiter arrived to take her to the station for an interview. I went along with her and I will never regret that day. Today I'm 24, I'm an sergeant E-5 (promotable) and I love what I do. I have always been a very strong woman, but the military has made me realize that there isn't anything out of my reach. I have read allot of negative comments about the military and it is sad that many women discourage the military because THEY have had a bad experience. I believe that if you are a person who is seeking success and you are determined to get it you will be able to achieve it in the military. The army is the largest branch of service and it DOES offer more opportunities that other branches in addition to that, the promotion rate is faster. An E-5 in the army makes the same as an E-5 in any other branch, but it will take you substantially less time to become an E-5 in the army than it will in any other branch. Also other branches are still dominated by males. In the army you will find that there are many high ranking females (of all races) which serves as an inspiration and makes you realize that you can also be there. Listen ladies: I am married, I have two kids and my husband IS NOT in the military. I have an education that the Army has financed, my car is paid for, and I'm getting ready to buy a house. THE ARMY IS THE WAY!

I joined the Army National Guard in 1982. Alot of People call us weekend warriors, but for me I am a soldier everyday of the year. I was 19 years old when I joined and very young and had no direction in life to include being a high school drop out. Throughout my 16 years the National Guard has been there for me. I joined as a private E-1 and spent 8 years enlisted and during that time I spent 4 years on Active duty for the guard. During those four years I worked on my college and accepted my commission in 1988 as a 2LT and off to Flight school to fly helicopters. I am now a Captain with 16 years getting ready for my Major. I felt compelled to write this, because of what the military has done for me. I know this is an Active Duty page, but wanted to share this with everyone. Be it Active Duty, Reserves or National Guard. You can doing anything and be anything you want to, the sky is the limit!

I just hit the 10 year mark in the US Army. Though I cannot say it has been easy, I can say that it has made me a better person. The Army has shown me that there are no limits. There are only limits if you put them there. I will do the rest of my 10 years and maybe even more. I leave you with this advice...make the best of it!!!! I have a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management plus I will be starting my Masters in October. The Army has truly been good to me.

I am an RM1 With 14 years of Naval service. One of the best things I have ever done is join the Navy. When I joined, I had no goals and no real idea of what I would do with my life. I now have 6 years to retirement, a wonderful job that I love, a chance to see more of the world than would have been possible had I not joined, 2 wonderful children and a husband that I could not live without. I am now on my first ship, and enjoying it more than I can say. The Navy has enhanced my life more than I can say, I recommend it for anyone!!

I've been in the Navy for almost 8 years. I seem to be in a different Navy than the folks who posted in the "Why I got out" section. The Navy is so much fairer than the civilian world. I believe that I am judged on my work performance and my rank. I don't think I am judged by my sex, or race. Pride is a big deal to me. I take pride in my work, my uniform appearance and my affiliation with the Navy. When I hear the National Anthem, my skin bristles with goosebumps to know that I am a part of the World's Finest fighting force. My ego gets a big boost from being in the military. I've got a chest full of medals and ribbons because I give my job 100% effort, and I accept challenging assignments....and lets not forget the adventure... I've been to so many places, and have done so many things. I've also had my share of the mundane work, but the exciting stuff is what I'll remember 'til the day I die. I am so proud to be an American. This is the greatest country in the world, and I'm proud to be a part of its defense.

I retired from the Navy in March 97 after a 21 year career. I stayed through the sexism and sometimes oppressing atmosphere. No matter what, I never lost sight of the big picture...My retirement and the professional civilian career that I was going to pursue. I loved all of the places I went, and learned a lot about myself being an aircraft mechanic. Frankly, the transition to civilian life has been tough and I am not quite there yet. I hope it gets better, and I hope the government gets "arthritis" sending me those retirement checks!

I have read the reasons or excuses for separating from the military and I know that everyone has different experiences that will influence their decisions. I also know that whether you get harassed or have to strive to maintain weight standards or are faced with difficult situations, they are not limited to the Navy, Army, Marines, or Air Force. If you make your decision to not re-enlist or to terminate your enlistment it should not be someone else's fault. If you see it as someone else's fault then you are not being true to yourself or the military. I have been in the Navy for six years and I just re-enlisted for four more. I have had some very tough days and I have had my fair share of supervisors that loved to grope and I have engaged in plenty of arguments of why a woman can and has to go beyond what is expected to compare, but the bottom line is that I have looked in the mirror everyday. This is where determination, dedication, motivation, and success is born. I am the only one who can change what is happening around me and I set my own destination. If I let someone else do that for me, that is where regrets are born. I wouldn't even give up my hardest day because I made it my own.

My story is that I came from a military background, my father retired after 20 years with the army. I didn't feel at home until I was part of that organizational hierarchy. However, I decided to try a different route and joined the Navy. The Navy has been a major contributor to my growth over the last 6 years, and has given me the stability and confidence to excel. The military's benefits beyond the perks (Travel, GI Bill, VA Loans, and continuous education) has a community spirit among its people that cannot be cloned in other environments. For me the Navy is not only a commitment to this country (my contribution), but a passion of life. Military responsibilities give me the desire to achieve in any and all endeavors. I will take this responsibility to the highest degree possible for myself and the benefit of the Navy, enjoy every moment and allow it to further broaden my knowledge as I so willingly desire.

I entered the U.S. Army in June, 1971 - just two days after I graduated from high school. Having lived all my life on a small farm in Virginia, the Army sounded like a safe place to venture out into the world. At that time the only "career" ahead for girls was to find a man, marry and have babies or work in a sewing factory. I couldn't picture me doing either.

I retired from the Army in June, 1991 as a Sergeant Major. I consider my entering the Army as the first best decision of my life. I received excellent training, was able to travel more than I'd ever expected to for a small town farm girl, had challenging assignments both in the States and overseas, and even met my husband (he's retired too).

I received my college education while I was in and am now completing my Masters degree thanks to the GI Bill. When I got out of the Army I was able to walk right into an excellent job at our community college where I have been for the past seven years. I believe that the experiences and training that I received while I was in the Army was what enabled me to get the first job I ever tried for in civilian life.

I decided to leave the Army only because my husband had already retired and had a great job and we did not want to risk a military duty separation. Even when we were both in, we only spent four months apart due to military obligations. Otherwise, we were able to get joint domiciles for every PCS after we were married.

Of course there were times when I wondered what I had gotten myself into, but those times never lasted long. I only have good memories of my years in the Army and think that its a great place for a career minded person to start out in whether they become a "lifer" or not.

I just want to say that I have decided to stay in for many of the reasons women have gotten out. Please don't get me wrong. I totally understand why so many women choose not to reenlist. I've heard the comments made when I refuse to date a fellow Marine. I must be a dyke, bitch, or for some unknown reason slut. I've heard the comments made when I am promoted or not. I must be under the Colonel's desk. I've stayed in, though. I hope that I, along with other strong, focused women in the Corps, can help to change the image of women in the service. I never thought it would be easy, but sometimes I can't believe how difficult it can be. I just want to say: Good Luck in whichever decision you make, God Bless, and Semper Fi!

I retired from the Air Force in June 1994, taking with me some of the most memorable moments of my life. I had a wonderful career, good assignments and wonderful bosses. No everyday wasn't wine and roses, there were some sour grapes and thorns along the way. But I can tell you now, after being out for a few years, regardless of the news day in day out, women in the military have it a lot better than most do on the outside.

I was also a wife and mother of 2 while I was on active duty, and except for real tense times (Operation Just Cause, Desert Storm/Shield) I had time with my children also. If a child was sick I could be there, if something important was happening in my child's life I was there. Try that in the civilian world, you'll soon be looking for a job. In most cases the military is very pro-family, most civilian firms could care less, the dollar is the bottom line.

My children miss the military and the camaraderie they found on base, yes most bases are also big families, most cities aren't. Sure there were drawbacks, alerts, 12 hour shifts, annual moves and on and on. But in the long run they built character, and friends like you'll find no where else. If I were asked to do it again, I would just as proudly as the 1st time!

Where do I begin. My experiences with 13 years in has given me opportunities I could have never have dreamed of. I have traveled, had a family ( 3 kids ), and have been very well taken care of. I have been very successful in my career, making E-7 at 12 years of service. I worked probably twice as hard as my male counter parts with getting only half the respect at most times. But it felt good to know that it was finally noticed, and I moved on and up. My position is a Recruiting Office Supervisor. I enjoy changing young peoples lives, so that they too might have the opportunities that I have. I see myself in them, at that same age of 18, without direction. If I look back to when I was 18, had I not joined the Air Force, I can honestly say.... I would not have been very successful, or educated. The Air Force gave my life direction,and also the confidence to climb the ladder to the top of the enlisted ranks. I plan on being the 2nd female chief in the history of the Unit I am attached to. I stay , because with every goal I achieve , there is another one right in front of it that I just know I can accomplish. I also know that women in the military get more respect, and less harassment then the civilian workplace. I am grateful I am in the military, proud to serve , and thankful I was born in this country. I would do it all over again!!

When faced with the daunting prospect of trying to pinpoint just what exactly serving in the military means to me, I was for a moment, stumped. My thoughts on my service in the Corps are filled with many swirling sentiments and conflicting emotions that range from chest bursting pride to teeth grinding frustration. There are some moments, like graduating from boot camp, graduating from Sgt's Course or even in a Battalion formation, when standing shoulder to shoulder with my fellow Marines and contemplating all we have accomplished and will yet accomplish together fills me with an overwhelming sense of pride and esprit de corps. I really feel as if I belong here, a part of this, and that my individual contribution, though small, is by no means insignificant and that I helped to bring us to where we are today, and will help to shape where we will be in the future. Then, there are other times, like walking a post in the middle of the night on a cold, lonely windswept hillside in Turkey, sitting in the middle of a torrential downpour in the woods of Camp Lejeune watching the rain drip off the brim of my cover, or struggling to put one blistered foot in front of the other on a hump through the rock strewn hills of Camp Pendleton, when I ask myself over and over again, "Why am I here?" Through it all, and the answer to it all is simply the shining fact that I feel like I belong. Some intrinsic part of being a Marine fills a void within myself better than any other way of life would. Though at times I may vehemently wish I were someplace, anyplace other than where I am at that given moment, I would not trade the experience for anything else in the world. I am what I was always meant to be. I am a Marine.

I joined the Air Force on 7 Dec 1977 and I haven't regretted it for one day. I enjoyed working on the Free World's Finest Freedom Fighter- the F-15- for 16 1/2 years. I learned electronics and worked side by side with some of the finest people in the world. Like many women I struggled with pre-conceived notions about women in the military, but I was lucky to have supervisors who believed in me and knew I was serious about a career. And before I knew it- I had one! I was promoted to MSgt at 14 years and finished my B.S. after 15. My commander encouraged me to apply for OTS and in June 1994 I was commissioned a 2nd Lt! I am now a Missile Launch Control Officer and still love working for the best employers in the world -The people of United States of America.

I enlisted into the USMC on 4 Oct 1977 for four years, a couple of months after graduating from high school. Then, my intent was to go to college, travel and be independent at the same time. I actually managed to fulfill some of my dreams. During Aug of 1981 and on the eve of my four years I had completed my AA degree and was pursuing my BA degree. During Nov 1981 I was on terminal leave and was aggressively seeking employment in the civilian section. I had many prominent job offers and was ready to leave the military. However, on 2 Oct 1981 I learned that I was selected for SSGT (E-6). At this point I had to make a decision within. I knew I had always liked the military because it taught me about life and leading people. Yet I felt I was at a stand still and wasn't given any room to grow. I needed more greater challenges and responsibilities. I had always looked up to all the SSGTs before me, and was very impressed with their performance. It was during this time that I chose to come back on active duty.

Since that time, I was promoted to the rank of SSGT and performed many challenging and rewarding jobs.

On 1 Feb 1990, I applied for the Warrant Officer program after having been in the administrative field for 12 years. I was selected on my first attempt and attended the warrant officer's basic course in 1990.

Since that time, I have held numerous of job related billets and have been successful in each one. I have seen the many policy changes in the Marine Corps (some favorable and some not so favorable), yet I have adapted and overcame them all. I know that I am not as young and vibrant as I use to be yet, the drive, and motivation of being a Marine leader is still deeply rooted within. I'm from the old school and I appreciate a good challenge. As long as the Marine Corps challenges my potential as a Marine leader, I will always continue to accept the challenge until I am no longer able to.

My decision to stay with the world's finest was due primary to being given the opportunity to prove to myself as well as to the Marine Corps that I can be all I can be.

On October 4, 1997, I would have completed 20 years of honorable service. I pay tribute to those of them that were in charge of me during my era and those whom which, I have touched throughout my charge. I pay tribute to my colleagues, associates and friends throughout the years. Most of all, I pay tribute to God for he is the almighty and head of my life. My husband has truly been an inspiration and blessing, and has stood by me through thick and thin and even took care of our then 18 month old son during a critical time. For this I'm truly grateful.

This message goes out to all of the women in the military who are trying to pursue a career. I solute you all. Stay strong, keep the faith and remember great things comes to those who wait and have the patience to endure.

Semper Fi,

CWO3 Annette B. Grimsley (1977 to present) active duty
PERSO, 7thCOMMBN
III MEF
Okinawa, Japan
Mar 2, 1997

I've been in the Coast Guard close to 14 years, and like any other job some days are better than others. I can proudly say that the positive has out-weighed the negative. I am fortunate to be a part of a team that specializes in LIFE SAVING. I have had the opportunity to travel to my favorite locations and work Search and Rescue in depth of it. I am currently on board a ship and traveling to distant locations, enforcing fishery laws, marine safety, illegal immigrant control, and Search and Rescue. I miss my husband and family, but like we all know, sacrifices are part of the job. I believe the military is what you make of it. It's only as good as you want it to be, and I am proud to be a part of it!

I have been in the military since Dec. 1987 and plan on staying in the National Guard for the rest of my military tour. I spent my first three years of military service in the National Guard in North Dakota. I joined initially because my sister was trying to get in. I made it and she didn't. I feel that joining the military was the smartest move I have ever made in my life next to marrying my husband of four years. I went active duty just to go to the Gulf War. Boy did I have fun. After four years on active duty, I joined the National Guard again in Maryland after taking a year off. That year off made me realize that I could not live without being in the military. It holds this incurable fascination for me that just keeps getting stronger the longer I stay in. I would definitely recommend a women check out her options in the military. She may realize that It is the one place she can be happy with herself and with what she is doing in life.

Submitted 3 Dec 96:

Every morning when I get up I'm proud to put on my uniform. I joined the Air Force because I love my country--and am grateful that I live in a place that gives both men and women the opportunity to protect the freedom that so many people take for granted.

22 Sep 96: Submitted by an Air National Guardswoman:

I have been in for 6 years and just last month enlisted for 3 more years. Granted I am Nat'l Guard but I still count. I joined primarily for the education benefits and was rewarded after that.

Being a part of a unit provides a place outside of home but is still home because the friends you make and keep are wonderful. If you trust those around you, you feel secure. Some come and go, that is the military way. But you are always a part of a larger group. I have never had one of my unit break my trust and I hope that I never do. I would propably get out. When I was at AIT, I was in a class of 34, 2 females. I felt secure with those guys around me. I knew that even if I had poor judgement, they would not let anything happen to me.

12 Sep 96: Submitted by Kathy, an active duty USAF Chief Master Sergeant:

I have almost 21 years in the Air Force and I'm a CMSgt. I stayed in the Air Force for differing reasons throughout my career. As a young Airmen I stayed in the AF because I knew I had a pretty good deal. I was given room and board, excellent formal tech-training in an area I had potential, a job, and mentors galore! What other company will take individuals and invest in them what the military does? Yes, I've had bad days, like when I was a non-volunteer for an assignment to Holland and my spouse could not follow-on for six months. At the time I had invested 11 years in this career and had achieved a level of pay (E-7), skill and responsibility which rivaled civilian comparison, male and female alike. I stayed in the Air Force even during a rough international assignment when I was "challenged" as a supervisor of British, Belgium, German, Army and Air Force personnel. In as much as I was supported by the American military system to "Aim High", I was critized and treated as a less than knowledgable authority in my vocation. I learned by these experiences that self-confidence is a valuable characteristic and if it had not been for my Air Force training and education I might have given up.

I stay in the Air Force now because I'm at the top. Respect at this pay grade is equal to that of our senior officers and civilian executives. I have the opportunity to make a difference in many young lives. I won't get rich but at this point in my life but, I feel I've lived a rich life in the Air Force. When I do decide to retire I'll be ready to take my skills and experiences to the civilian sector where I know they are sought. You'll never find a more motivated person than one who has learned and grown in the USAF. You are responsibile for the growth, however, and if you don't take advantage of it while on active duty, you have missed a very rare oppurtunity in life.

Submitted 1 Jun 96:

Although there are mornings my alarm goes off at 0500 and I think briefly that "normal" people don't get up this early, I love the military life. I agree with the others that the opportunities and the pay are pretty good, and I can honestly say the army has given me everything I asked for in terms of schools and assignments. If you work hard, you will progress. It certainly isn't easy, and you do have to pay in terms of family life and stability, but the benefits are certainly worth it.

3 Apr 96: 17 YEARS AND STILL PRESSING ON!

I agree with all of the previous submission. I have been in the Army for over 17 years now. I have used the time to better myself. I've seen and done things that I may have never been able or inclined to do. I have even been able to get my Mom to travel some. When others say that they have visited Europe, I can say I lived there. When others say they want to visit Hawaii, I lived there. Along with the travel, I have made friends all over the world. Self-confidence is a must, and if you didn't have it, you got it.

Feb 96: An Air Force female writes: There were many reasons why I stayed in the Air Force:

(1) Great travel opportunities! I got to live in Europe for several years and experience a different culture. All my CONUS assignments were in good places I'm sure I would never have had the chance to live if I weren't in the military.
(2) I liked all my jobs (administration). Each one provided challenging opportunities. It was always satisfying to know that in 2-3 years, I'd be moving on to somewhere else.
(3) I was blessed with good supervisors who treated me fairly and made me want to strive to do my best.
(4) I got to pursue my education.
(5) I liked the job security and
(6) the pay was pretty good,
(7) especially when you combined all the dental and medical health care.
(8) I always had good dental and medical health care by competent & caring providers.
(9) I liked the opportunity to grow and mature into a confident woman, capable and empowered to make important decisions.
(10) I was proud to serve my country and know that my being in uniform made a difference.
(11) I like the privilege of being able to get into the host of military installations all over the world.
(12) I feel pretty special knowing that I can flash a military I.D. card and walk into a base exchange or military commissary. Despite that many people say base/post prices are not competitive with local economy businesses--at least I have the choice of where to shop, an appanage not afforded to non-military personnel.
(13) I liked knowing that you're only required to give twenty years and then you can start something new in life.
(14) And twenty years go by pretty fast.