Good points all, hard to know what is really in the heart sometimes, even to those you love and trust we all hold some things close.
I would say that financial is not a decider, he knows that both his parents and grandparents will pay for college, with or without ROTC or any other scholarships. That is not weighing in the decision, we are fortunate that its doable either way. But it does raise a point that the decision would be far easier if that were a player. I worked during college and paid for all of it myself, I know was really proud of that first degree!
I think there has been a lot of fanfare over his appointment, friends and family patting him on the back, and it probably does make him uncomfortable.
He has clearly stated that he really likes the USCG and its mission, no way is he hesitating because of service choice, even though dad has deep USAF ties and he has spent his childhood around the smell of JP8 jet fuel and the sound of the mighty eagle, USAF is not his priority.
I think there is a possibility that he is concerned about possibly failing and being humiliated, he has never failed at anything and deep down he knows he wont fail, but it may be part of the psyche.
I have come to terms with it, all of your wonderful words help, and just a place to vent to like minded has been good for dad!
Last night I had multiple family and friends (who learned of his hesitation to choose) relate their many many experiences of their kids or they themselves not taking a leap or completing something they were talented at (music, sports, trips, colleges, etc) that they would have if their parents would have simply pushed them a bit harder to do it. Guess what, I am going to push him to accept. If he still doesn't then at least I did my part.
Yesterday we were at a nephews wedding reception party, and while chatting with him, I told him he really needs to go to the USCGA, there really isn't a choice. He knows the education is better and the end goal of flying USCG rotary is best served (nearly only served) via USCGA.
Period.
Let that sink in for a day, and see where his head takes him.
I will let you all know, this dad is beginning to think he is going to take it..... (or is that just wishful thinking?)