There are a ton of different reasons to join the military, and for most people, money isn’t a big factor. But it certainly doesn’t hurt. Despite popular belief, the military offers plenty of opportunities to become a high-earner.

The best military branch is a point of contention among service members and Veterans alike. Sure, all service members represent the military, and because of that, they all support each other.

Several years ago, retired Sergeant Danny Priest leaned over and said to me, “The Purple Heart is one of those medals you do not want to get because you have to have been wounded in battle.” He should know.

This August 4th marks the 230th birthday of the United States Coast Guard, the country’s oldest, continuous, sea-going service. Since 1790, the Coast Guard has absorbed other agencies and their missions in meeting the needs of the nation.