Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 9/7/2009

Question
Im planning on enlisting this month. I scored an 82 on my asvab. Im interested in pulic affairs but that's an officer position. My question(s) are: 1. how would i qualify for the position, will the navy send me to school...what are the qualifications for that, and 2. I dont want to move around a lot b/c i have a child and am planning on getting married, and cant really expect my husband to give up his job everytime i get moved.

I just really need some advice, im so confused. I know i want to join...im just not sure about much more than that...

Answer
Crystle,
Congratulations on scoring highly on the ASVAB.  That means you're very qualified to do a lot of different things.

I'll have to answer your question in separate parts.

1.  You're wrong about PA being an officer's job.  That's only true for the Navy and the USCG.  The Army, Air Force, and Marines all have enlisted PA career fields.  If you've ever seen the Armed Forces Radio & Television Service (AFRTS) television channel, you'll see that all the newscasters and reporters are enlisted people.  My wife used to work in the Air Force Public Affairs office and there was only 3 officers in her office and 12 enlisted.

2.  If you're dead set on the Navy or nothing-at-all you'll have to get a 4-year college degree first (unless you qualify for a Navy ROTC scholarship).

3.  Each Branch of the military has their own rules regarding single parents.  Generally, they'll expect you to give temporary custody of your child to somebody until you finish basic training and training schools.

4.  If you don't want to move around much, then you'd better consider the Guard or Reserves because you definitely will move a lot on active-duty.  And yes, your spouse WILL have to give up his job and find a new one every time you move.  My wife did it 15 times in 30 years.

5.  What are you eligible for age-wise?  Here are the age limits for each Service:
Air Force 27
Coast Guard - Age 27.
Marines 28
Marine Corps Reserve 29
Air Force Reserve 34
Navy 34
Army National Guard 35
Naval Reserves 39
Coast Guard Reserves 39
Air National Guard 40
Army 42

If you'd like your new husband to keep his good job, and don't want to move, and you want your child to grow up in a stable environment without changing schools every few years, then you'd probably be a perfect fit in the Guard or Reserves.  You husband can even join you and make a family showing of patriotism.  It's a great way to serve your country and make extra money without really leaving home.  Do some research on the Internet and you'll find that each Service has a section called "More Information" and "Locate a Recruiter".

I hope this helps a little.  If you have any more questions just send me a follow-up.
Thanks for wanting to serve.
Colonel H