I've been struggling with the decision to join the military with the better part of 2 years, now. I was raised in a strong military family, my father retired after 20 years, and my mom is almost at the end of her terms of service in the Army Reserves.

They each have very different views on whether or not I should join (my dad is a strong supporter, whilst my mom is strongly against me 'signing away 7 years of my life')

I turn 18 in a week, and I feel like I've come to a crossroads. I know exactly what I'd like to do, and I know what joining the military holds in store for me, and the commitment it represents.

I guess I'm just looking for advice from anyone who might have struggled in a similar way.

As you already saw, I too am struggling. Although, odly enough, my mom is the super supporter where as my dad is not. She knows that this is something I have to do for myself because I feel it will make me a stronger person. My dad, on the other hand, is hell bent on me going to college. I know its important but it can wait till I'm done.

The question of "will I join?" is non existant. I AM going to join...very soon. The problem is, which service? I am strongly considering Air Force rather than Army mainly because the Army, from what I hear, does 16-18 month deployments and I'd rather not be doing that if I'm married. I hope this helps some and as soon as I get some advice from others here, I will relay it back to you. Thanks.

My advice-- if you're having doubts/struggles/crossroads-- WAIT. If college is an option, enroll. Community College is an option, do that. Get a part time job...or a full time job and go to school part time. Get to know what life is like after high school. You don't have to join at 18. My son joined at 20. I joined the Reserves first and didn't go active duty until I was 20. I think my son and I were a little more prepared to deal with military life at 20. Take your time. No need to rush into anything.

The Reserves is an option as well. Look into that if you're still having questions.

Hmmm, I remember turning 18. Also remember that I turned 21 in boot camp.

A crossroads to me indicates several directions/options to take with the military being one of them. You didn't mention the other options. Jot down the pro's and con's of each and see where you stand.

Being 18 is a big deal, making the right decision is even bigger considering the impact on what direction you decide to take with your life. My advice mirror's Patoloco's. Go to college if at all possible. Get a few more years under your belt and then decide. The military will always be there as an option.

Listen to your folks. Consider the fact that both have already been there and done that.