Pros
For a young man with very little work experience to draw on (1980), the AF was an excellent job for me. Coming from a small town, the travel opportunities were a real eye opener. I've traveled to England, Germany, France, Belgium, Holland, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and United Arab Emirates. I've seen 36 of 50 states. The education opportunities offered by the Air Force is hard to beat. While pursuing a career and support a family, I was also able to complete my Associate Degree in Hydraulic/Pneumatic Systems and Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Technology. I highly recommend the Air Force.
Cons
Extended periods of separation from family was the hardest thing to deal with. I was stationed in England from 1992 to 1996 which had its own unique hardships. I deployed in 1997 to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH after the first Gulf War. I deployed again in 2001 to Oman in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM. My final deployment was in 2005 to the United Arab Emirates in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. These deployments were very tough on my wife and kids, but they learned to function very well while I was gone.
