CJ might actually be great as a field medic but...yikes.

Yes, this. I can't even address the danger side because his long term goals are fireman/tactical medic which carry at least as much danger as the military.

The tough part of having a plan is that the recruiter guy can promise the moon to CJ but has no ability to actually give it to him.

I concur about the Coast Guard for emergency services, along with the National Guard.

Is is a confession to say I've been watching American Ninja Warrior (and loving it despite the parade of fail). One of this year's contestants is a DC firefighter who did a tour of duty in, I disremember...maybe the Army?

Suze, I can totally see what you are saying about the vagaries of the military having a diminishing effect. But, I wonder how many of the folks who don't cope well have the kind of discipline and drive that CJ has.

wrod. (see, Private Benjamin and the condos) Although I still wish they made comedies like that.

The tough part of having a plan is that the recruiter guy can promise the moon to CJ but has no ability to actually give it to him.

This is true for ANY contract situation...much less a situation where the recruiter's livelihood hinges on agreements.

No signatures now, is a good idea.

Plus, finding a civilian military lawyer in your area (I've worked for one here) who can look over the contract before you commit is a possibility.

I'd rather he go to school first and go in as an officer if he absolutely wants to go into the military.

It is possible to get your degree while you're in, too. That's what my brother did. He actually ended up with his masters.

What Amy said.

I've known a couple of doctors who got their degrees on the job. They had to commit to...I think, but don't quote me on this...6 years post grad service. But, hey, free medical school does not grow on trees!

Please deliver me from the rampant incidence of common-sense-free people in my life.

One of the walkers got bitten by a cat...like 8 times...all over one calf and one hand. I now have photos of his hand, blown up to the size of a catcher's mitt.

I'm just hearing about this today...many days after the fact.

I can't keep slapping my forehead in frustration. I'm gonna give myself a concussion.

Do I just reply and reaffirm my interest and editing skillz and tell them to send me the editing test, and *then* if I'm hired do I mention that I know my way around a dungeon? Or would mentioning it now -- in a brief, low-key way -- give me an advantage?

It think a brief low-key mention gives you an advantage. It advances you directly to the "don't have to worry about THIS one twigging out" pile. In fact, I'd wager that that asking about preferences was their low-key way of broaching the topic.

Suzi, I don't have questions, but I would make sure I had a pen and paper in hand and that he saw me taking notes of everything he said, and asked him (if he made promises) to give/send such in writing.

Sparky is wise. Notes and documentation are key. If there is resistance to either...you know that isn't acceptable.