After the attacks on that fateful day of 9/11, many young men and women were encouraged to join military service, including the Marines. The United States Marines is under the Department of the Navy although it has a different branch of service. Also known as the infantry of the Navy, the Marines play an important role in amphibious operations although they now have ground combat activities.
An individual between the age of 17 and 29 years old who wants to be in the Marines can either be recruited or be commissioned as an officer. Also, he or she should pass mental and physical aptitude tests and undergo a period of training. Joining the marines needs certain considerations since it can be life-changing. Here are some of the pros and cons for people pondering on being in the United States Marine Corps.
List of Pros of Joining the Marines
1. It gives young men and women the chance to serve the country.
Many Americans are patriotic and eager to give their share in protecting the interest of the United States of America. For them, enlisting or being commissioned to be part of the Marines is one way to do this. With more than 180 jobs to enlist from, Americans are given more opportunities to grab and be able to put their skills and expertise into good news.
2. It entails benefits.
Being in the Marines also means having access to discounts like dining in restaurants, being able to shop in military bases where goods are often sold for lower prices and getting scholarships. For those who will be serving for 20 years, there will be pension waiting for the retiree, not to mention the VA loan a retiree is eligible for.
3. It offers free training.
Men and women enlisted in the Marines undergo a12-week training in what is referred to as a boot camp. As opposed to the basic military training conducted by Air Force and the basic combat training in the Army, the training in the Navy is the longest in duration which means more skills will be taught and it is for free.
List of Cons of Joining the Marines
1. It has an age limit.
Critics say that the maximum age requirement for joining the Marines is too young, that individuals who are 30 years old and above will not be able to enlist. It is unlike the Army which accepts recruits until 42 years of age and the Navy, with an age limit of 34. This serves as a barrier for people who want to be a part of this specialty group but are a bit older.
2. It has limited opportunities and can be tough at times.
While there are more than 180 enlisted jobs in the Marines, it does not recruit medical personnel like doctors and nurses. This means that there is no room for recruits who want to become medics. Also, the longer duration of training can be a tough one for enlisted men and women because it means having to wake up early and sleep late from doing rigorous trainings.
Conclusion
Men and women who serve their country as Marines are considered heroes. However, these young people should know the two sides of joining this branch of the U.S. Navy before signing up since it is not as simple as it appears to be.