Anybody who did MILITARY SERVICE or is doing so help me please?

I am currently a university student, but i am curious and wish to join the airforce or the navy as a pilot.

please help me by answering these questions

was your service worth while?

what did you like about it?

what did you dislike about it?

anymore stories or information would make me a very happy chappy ^^ thank you

was your service worth while?
There were aspects that weren't great but was it worth it? Absolutely. I would do it ALL again, in a Marine Corps heartbeat.

what did you like about it?
road trips (TDY/TAD), Camaraderie, purpose, technical and historical things that no civilian has an grasp of their importance, appreciation for the love of this nation and the sacrifice done by so many.

what did you dislike about it?
Pay sucked, TDY/TAD time away from home & family, lack of privacy, post career job opportunity for military unique MOS/AFSC.
(edit) Warren mentioned unstable nature of military service, its also murder on marriage.

Its a career like no other, there is a sense of purpose that is evident. That sense of purpose lasts a lifetime.
There is a freindly friction between members of other services but we all gained something in our souls by our service to America. Deep, YES, I know.

Working in the Navy was and is one on the proudest moments of my life and the memories of travel and relationships you will form will last forever.
My only dislike was the repetitiveness of paperworks and training, but this to is necessary to have that "well oiled machine"
Entering as you would, as a junior officer,will be the beginning of a career in which early retirement is possible.
I grew up with a Navy family. Both brothers served...My father served 36 years, and myself for 8.
Good luck, and anchors away

I can't answer for the Air Force or the Navy. I served 20 years in the Army. I simply enjoyed what I was doing. The only down side was a couple of deployments that separated me from my wife and family.

My observation is that traditionally, sailors face significantly more separations from their families. However, with the events in Iraq and Afghanistan, I'm not sure that still holds true.