Pros
Due to level of sacrifice both the military member and their family's must pay, there can be a high sense of camaraderie and there is a rewarding deep personal satisfaction associated with serving your country. 30 days of leave (vacation), medical benefits, and income stability are quite good. There are opportunities to travel to and experience unique places of the world. The military does promote the politically savvy individual and the rewards for surviving and enduring sacrifice can be personally fulfilling. Regardless of background, everyone is treated with the same regard and given the same opportunity to succeed or fail on their own merits. The G.I. Bill whether "Mongomery" or "Post 9/11" to pay for technical schools or higher education is excellent. Great leadership does exist.
Cons
As with most government entities, the Air Force is plagued by poor management and leadership at most levels. Although a stable income can be expected year after year, what you gain in stability, you loose in competitiveness when compared to the civilian sector for perform similar a similar job. There is very little control over duty assignments, career progression, or where you or your family (if applicable) will live, or being able to manage your personal life in regard to military requirements. Depending on your career field and unit, expect to deploy at least once per year for at least 4 to 6 months. This can be a real burden to the family (if applicable) and people you care about that you leave behind and the stresses it creates very difficult.