hopefuloregonmid
5-Year Member
- Joined
- Aug 23, 2013
- Messages
- 14
Let's remember that we are speaking of 17 or 18 year olds. This is the biggest decision of their life, and one that will direct the next 9+ years of their life. I'm sure none of us would want anyone to take that decision lightly. While some people are set on one branch of service or another, there are many applicants who have no military background at all. They also have little or no input in this process from their parents. Quite a weight to bear when they are getting input from various opinions, and then they have people on a forum call in to question their integrity for taking time to make a decision. I understand you may have a DS/DD waiting in the process, but that doesn't mean you should question another person's action that they have every right to exercise.
Thank you so much for this post. I am one of these people who come from a completely non-military background and family (in fact, my parents held me back from applying to USMA until I finally convinced them to let me as they held several prejudices against the Army), and it is the toughest decision I have had to make. For me, that decision will not come until I go on the overnight visit at USMA, and see both academies. This decision will also not just be about where I attend, but in what branch I will do my service in. It is important for me to take time to think about where I want to be truly committed to serving, as the government will be investing resources into me, and I do not want to waste that investment.