Pros
The Navy, first and foremost. offers the opportunity to serve your country. Pay is paid as long as one is affiliated, regardless if actively serving or out on medical leave. Regular cost of living increases in pay. Regular pay increases for time served. 21/2 days per month of accumulated leave (paid vacation days). Housing is provided or a comparable housing allowance. Savings plan for retirement is available. Medical and dental provided for service member and family. Low cost child care available, space limited basis. Low cost Food, Alcohol, and merchandise shopping available to members only. Discounts for multiple businesses. Retirement pension achieved at 20 years of service min. Amount of pension increases depending on amount of time served up to 30 years.
Cons
Authoritarian work environment. Long work hours. Separation from friends and family for up to 9 months out of the year, while on "Sea Duty" (deployable status). All members have 2 jobs, 1) to properly represent the Navy at all times in appearance and conduct 24/7, 2) ones actual job they were trained to do. Advancement has become more difficult as the Navy has been downsizing. Demonstrated physical fitness is testable and required, failure to maintain fitness up to set standards will result in dismissal. Regular performance reviews, and one overall review at the end of each contracted time period to determine desirability of the Navy to renew the member's contract.
