Talk to a recruiter

5. Do you have films or literature about military life and particular jobs? Most recruiters have videos and literature about their branch and particular jobs. In most cases you can either check the videos out or watch them at the recruiting station. Remember these are promotional materials. 6. How long is basic training? Where is it? What is it like? Air Force basic training is a little over 6 weeks at Lackland AFB, Texas. Army boot camp is 9 weeks and occurs at a variety of places based on your specialties. Coast Guard recruit training is 8 weeks at the Coast Guard Training Center, Cape May, N.J. Marine recruit training is 13 weeks at Marine Corp Training Depots at Parris Island, S.C. and San Diego, Calif. Navy basic training is 8 weeks at Great Lakes Naval Training Center, Il. 7. What physical fitness requirements must I meet to enter the military and succeed in basic training? Physical standards vary from service to service. Have your recruiter spell it out for you. 8. What jobs are available? Ask your recruiter about openings in these and related fields. Then, use the delayed entry program to get the training you want. Training programs are related to the job specialty that you are assigned to. You should ask your recruiter about the entire career path in that chosen field. Most military specialties have follow-on training as you gain expertise and rise in rank. 9. What are the possibilities for remote or overseas duty stations? All services have overseas opportunities. Overseas service is often considered a "square to fill" for advancement. Ask your recruiter. 10. What are the training and advancement opportunities for jobs that I'm eligible for? Military promotions are based on performance, time in grade and job knowledge. While the system is objective, certain specialties seem to fare better in promotion rates. Ask your recruiter how the promotion rates are in your chosen field and compare them to several other fields you may choose from. attend training.