Wolf, the stars were not aligned properly. Seriously, my father talked me out of it. A buddy and I had planned on joining as soon as we graduated. My dad was very much against the idea. He talked me out of it. As it turned out, that was the right decision. Within 18 months, my buddy had a general discharge. Had I joined, I probably would have ended up the same, since we were inseperable in High School. We both got into trouble all the time, because we did everything together. Also, had I joined, I wouldn't have met my wife. Period. No if's, ands, or buts about that. But the desire to serve never left me. Not long after I was married, I actually went and talked to the USMC recruiter, and took the ASVAB. I was all set to enlist as W-1. My wife put the skids on that time. She didn't want me off all over the world, and her moving all over either. I was adamant about being a Marine, though. This was a very tough time for me, but I made the decision to stay married, and stay a civilian. I often question my decision, and have twinges of regret. But what's done is done, and now I look for ways to support my country in any way I can, but from home. I teach my children, now teenagers themselves, love of country, and support their decisions, whether they decide to serve or not. Even though the events of my life took me a different route from my intentions, I honor, respect, and admire those who serve out great country.
To this day, I still have a very soft spot in my heart for the Marine Corps, as it was going to be my chosen branch, and those who serve in that particular branch of service. I may kid around about the other branches: Air Force, Navy, Army, (and Coast Guard, I suppose) and the Nationall Guard, but each one of these are equally important to the security of our great land, in their own way. And if you are affiliated with any of these, either presently or in the past, my hat is off to you and I thank you for your part in our country's security.
