What references do I need for enlisting in the military?

I'm planning to enlist in the military after high school and I'm a bit unsure about the reference requirements. Who should I ask to be my references, and what roles do they play in the enlistment process?

When enlisting in the military, you will indeed need to provide references as part of your application package. The purpose of these references is to attest to your character, reliability, and suitability for military service.

In most cases, it's recommended that your references be reputable individuals who know you well and can speak to your character and abilities. These could include teachers, coaches, employers, religious leaders, or any adult who has had a supervisory role in your life.

In terms of the role they play, your references may be contacted by your military recruiter or by a member of the Department of Defense during a background check. They may be asked to provide details on your character, work ethic, and school performance, or to verify details that you've provided during the enlistment process.

It's important to talk to the individuals you plan to list as references beforehand. Ensure they're comfortable vouching for you and have a good understanding of your reasons for wanting to enlist. This will help them provide accurate and supportive responses if they're contacted. Additionally, make sure you have their most current contact information, including their full name, relationship to you, address, and phone number.

An important note is that the military asks for these references primarily to confirm that potential enlistees are of sound moral character and honesty, which, along with physical fitness and mental aptitude, are key elements assessed during enlistment.