The career starter loan is run through USAA, at least it was my DS (AF) and Aglahad (Army). I don't know if Navy uses NFCU for the starter loan.
If you take the starter loan, make your life easy and set up a checking acct with the bank you have the loan. 5 yrs here, I don't know one poster that didn't take it with USAA.
Think about it. If there is a payment problem regarding automatic payments for the loan, renter's insurance, car insurance, etc. it is all in one wheelhouse...USAA. They have their bank account and all of their information.
Going NFCU, and using USAA for insurance, if something happens you will be working with 2 banks to rectify the problem. Rare? Yes, but it happens. You don't want to be deployed and trying to contact 2 banks to rectify the problem.
USAA also has an amazing buying program...they are connected with Pro Flowers, diamond dealers, jewelers, specialty gifts. All are competitively priced. Whether you use their banking option, you will get these benefits as a USAA member....i.e. car insurance, starter loan, etc.
The final reason IMPO, is from a Mom with kids. DS in the AF would have become a USAA member whether or not he went into the AF. Our 2 younger kids aren't going military, however they are USAA members because their Dad was one. DD just got her 1st car on her own. She is 21. She purchased a 2103 Ford Escape S. Her insurance per yr 350.
We carry way above the state mins. The car is replacement value...so if G forbid she totals it in 2017, they will pay for a 2017.
DS AF O1. He is 23, his insurance for his 2012 Toyota Corolla SE, 480 a yr.