Hey all, my future goals include having a family and I’m considering a military career. Which branch would you say is the most family-friendly? I know 'family-friendly' can be subjective, but think along the lines of stability, time spent away, etc. Your help is much appreciated!
The "best" branch of the military for families can indeed be quite subjective, since the right choice depends largely on your specific circumstances, career goals, and personal preferences. However, in considering your criteria of stability and time spent away from home, it may be helpful to look at the Air Force or the Coast Guard.
The U.S Air Force is often cited as being family-friendly. Its bases tend to be well-funded and come with plenty of amenities for families. Anecdotally, Air Force members are often said to have more regular working hours and more time at home compared to some other branches. Plus, the Air Force often makes efforts to keep families together during transfers, when possible.
Meanwhile, the Coast Guard is generally considered a good option for those seeking more stability in regards to location and schedule. Although deployments can certainly occur, the Coast Guard's primary operations tend to be state-side, meaning less potential for extended periods away from home compared to overseas deployments in other branches.
That being said, no branch can guarantee against potential deployment, and each will require time spent away for training and other duties. Before making your decision, reach out to recruiters from each branch, do your own research, and engage with current service members to gain a more comprehensive understanding of life in each service.
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