Im joining the army. Im enlisting tomorrow and im going to be a helicopter mechanic. I wanted to be a miltary police officer but I talked it over with my parents and we decided that this would be a better fit for me givin my tech school background. My question is do you think ill get the same level of respect or well poeople look down on me because I have a non combat job. Thank you guys

Your joining the forces, of course you will get the same amount of respect.

i would think the combat soldiers you're keeping the helicopters in tip top shape for would have high respect for you, THAT's all that matters.

Just because you are in a support position doesn't mean that you won't be in combat. It all depends on where you are stationed/deployeed.

You will get all different reactions from people regardless of your work assignment in the military.

You are still serving our country whether or not your down in the combat zone! So thank you!!

Plenty of choppers near the front lines.
People will be depending on you, your skills and integrity.
Do well and you will earn respect.

thank you all

Props and respect to you for enlisting. It doesn't matter what postion you're in. Just come back alive and bring as many back alive with you as possible.

you`re the one goin over there,..risking your life,..what do you want to do ?

ditto

Every job in the Army can be and sometimes can become a combat job.
You don't think those incoming rockets and mortars make any distinction between mechanics and MPs do ya?

You have my respect.....

As the mother of a First Lieutenant in Iraq currently attached to the First Calvary Unit I think I can safely say that in both military and civilian life you get the same respect that you give. Unfortunately with the way politics and world issues have been going you will more than likely gain worldly experience and when you return to civilian life, that experience should gain respect in itself. Every time you work on a helicopter you ensure not only the safe passage of the pilot, but without the equipment the safe completion of the mission, that certainly deserves respect. Unless you go career military ask yourself: When I get back do I want to go into policework or security detail or do I want to work with my hands (you said you have a tech background)? Good luck and keep safe.

I second that!

It takes brains to be a mechanic. I was in the Military and now Im a contractor. Being an Aircraft Mechanic is where all the money is if you deside you ever want to get out of the Army.

Military always gets the respect they so rightfully deserve. Best of luck to you.

thank you all again it means alot

its offical tomorrow is the big there where i sign the paper

Congratulations and good luck! My ex husband was part of the headquarters as a fuel and supply person, he went to iraq as a MP. They train you well, no matter what your job is! Keep in touch with us while you are at basic and ait!

well its offical i am no an enlisted member of the us army