Are the armed forces a good place for my 20-year-old son to start a career?

Since graduating from high school two years ago, my son has been rudderless. He’s been in minor trouble with the law. He’s worked on a farm selling coconuts to tourists, done some long-term house-sitting, and washed dishes at a restaurant.

I’ve always respected the armed forces and been very supportive of others I’ve known who’ve joined. Yet when it’s my own son saying he wants to join, I dread the idea. I can’t help but picture him becoming cannon fodder.

I recognize that he has to live his own life. I can’t choose for him.

Specifically, he’s looking at the army and is planning on taking the ASVAB placement test right after basic training hoping to get into the Army Corp of Engineers. He did well in high school in both math and science.

What’s your experience with the armed forces personally or peripherally? Is it a good job?