Thinking of Enlisting?

Signing up for the military isn't like taking a job or registering for a camp or school. It is a serious decision that has lifelong consequences. Recruiters are quick to emphasize the good points about being in the military, but there are many downsides. What recruiters say about life in the military at best omits many facts. At worst, recruiters tell out and out lies to sign up recruits.

 The Real Deal on Military Recruitment

"Before you Enlist" offers a rational voice to help counter misleading recruitment practices and promises. Order the DVD today to show at your school or group -- only $5 each! Additional resources are available for workshops, alternatives to the military, and more.

Do You Know Enough to Enlist?

• Military recruiters and ads promise a lot. Before you join, take a good look at what you're getting into. See our publications page to order in English and Spanish. More >

Ten Points to Consider Before You Sign a Military Enlistment Agreement

• Do not make a hasty decision about enlistment! Learn More >

Is there a Trial Period in the Military?

• There is no such thing as a "trial period," a "period of adjustment," or a chance to get a "flavor of the military." More >

Will I get my GI Bill Benefits?

• New! Post 9/11 GI bill analysis -- In this commentary, Oskar Castro of the AFSC Youth and Militarism program raises some questions and concerns over the capacity for this benefit for veterans to be fully implemented.  He welcomes questions or comments at youthmil@afsc.org. See pdf for the commentary Post 9/11 GI bill analysis.

• The old Montgomery GI Bill, as many veterans have found, is no sure bet. Hundreds of thousands have found themselves declared ineligible in the past decade and those who are set to receive benefits under the old program have cause for concern. More >

The Poverty Draft: Eight Things You Need to Know

• The DOD spends more than $4 billion a year to recruit high-achieving, low-income youth. More >

Getting Out of the Military

What is the Difference Between Good and Bad Discharges?

• I have heard that when you leave the US military, you get either a "bad" discharge or a "good" discharge. What does this mean?
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The recruiter said that if I got a bad discharge I would still be eligible for GI Bill benefits. Is that true?

• The recruiter is wrong. The current Pentagon education plan for recruits – known as "The New GI Bill" or "The Montgomery GI Bill" – is one of the most widely misunderstood government benefits, apparently even by recruiters. More >