Hello everyone,,

Seeing as I am almost 22 years old and I have not attended college, nor do I have any interest, I feel as though the military may the right choice for me. I have looked into the Coast Guard Reserves, because I would rather stay home and keep the job that I have.
I'm seeking adventure and to possibly come out with some sort of trade. I have yet to speak with a Recruiter, but I have done some research online and I am waiting for more literature to come in the mail.

What I would like to know, is if there is anyone on ScionLife that is currently in the Coast Guard or Coast Guard Reserves. What are the Pros and Cons? Why did you join? Do you actually like it, or are you just doing it as a career or because the money is good?
How much do Reservists typically get paid? What was basic training like? I know these are questions I should be asking a recruiter but I'd like to get information from someone who has served or is currently serving.

Thanks!

______

 

Hello Daniel77,

I Suggest you PM (Private Message) New Member: semscion

(under his Profile>Send Message>send a private message to semscion)

He just Posted HERE

"Hello, new member here from Florida.
US Coast Guard Veteran. 13 years of service 1982-1995... USCG Mellon, Seattle WA., Motor Lifeboat Invincible, Cape Disappointment WA.
Training Center, Elizabeth City, NC USCG Air Station Clearwater, FL."


MR LUV
Administrator

 

Daniel,
I served 13 years in the US Coast Guard and enjoyed every single day, it was awesome and a real job with meaning regardless of weather or not we are at war. I did not see any cons, all pros for me. First speak with a recruiter but don't believe a word out of their mouth. Take the exam and see how you do, that will determine what rates would be available for you to choose from. I would not accept without a guarantee based upon your testing. Duty stations are awesome and in great locations, good way to see this great Country and beyond. I would not recommend getting stuck on a Cutter (ship) or Ice Breaker, kind of crappie life but some enjoy it. There are small boat stations specializing in Law Enforcement, there are motor lifeboat stations on the left Coast specializing in Search and Rescue, there are "black-boat" stations specializing in aids to navigations maintaining our waterways and rivers, then there is Coast Guard Aviation, Jets, C-130 cargo planes, Helicopters... that's the route I chose. Good life style, good people, good friendships, good real life training for future jobs. I never lived on a "base" or in base housing, even as a non rate waiting for school. The Coast Guard paid for three of my homes...no kidding. My BAQ and VHA made my mortgage payments and I doubled my money on each home when I sold them. That was different times in a different economy and real estate market. The lifestyle is good they have a good budget for training and equipment. I certainly would recommend it. I don't know thing about the reserves, sorry.
Feel free to pm me, if you'd like.
If there are any Coast Guard Stations near you schedule a visit, they will give you a tour just set it up in advance.
Best of luck to you!!