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After 18 year you get a "un detected crime" medal as well
its proper name Long Service And Good Conduct, the nick name is truer.

Feeling a pull towards infantry... Do not think I will be spending 18 years in the military to be honest. Who knows maybe I enjoy it more than I think.

Compare what training you can do before you srart, this could help get off the bottom levelas soon as possiable.
What trade will they teach, up to what level, can you do yout time and come out with a usful trade?. The biggest considerationis , the army and marines real livr hurty bullets. The air force say bang bang you are dead, please stay there for a while.

I really would like to stay for a while. I will see how it handles me. Maybe a wife and family will make me consider leaving

Get in, have fun while you are fireproof. Mum and the kids will come by themselves.later

I am just really scared of not meeting her(future wife) while in the military

She may be in the service waiting for you to show up. My wife of 54 years was in the air force, I met her, courted her, and married her at Ohakea.
If your wife has been in the service she has greater understanding of why you are sent somewhere when she wants you at home.
You were born at the right time, went to the right school, will marry the right girl, and pass on on the right day. It is called Kismet.