I cannot speak firsthand about the USCG. However, I will speak up and say that I think that military service is a GOOD thing. I served for six years in the Marines, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Sure, things aren't great all of the time, but you will definitely learn things from military service that will serve you well later in life.

Military service is just what you make of it. There are some fantastic opportunities for education, travel, etc. I have friends who were embassy guards in ALL locations of the world....served on Presidential helicopter or Camp David detachments...ones who went into enlisted ranks and DID become officers through ECP, MECEP, etc. programs which actually let them go to school to earn a degree and commission....Warrant Officer programs..... There are *SO* many things out there in whichever branch you choose.

I did my six and have been out for over ten years, and there are OFTEN times that I regret not staying in to make a career out of it (especially considering that I would retire with 20 years service in only three more years!).

At 22, you have MANY choices ahead of you. The military would not be a bad one, in my opinion. Best of luck with whatever you decide.

Harley