mission vs. military

[airforceaunt]

Just wondering if anyone can point me to anything from the Church that discusses the option of military service over a mission or the like.  You know, does the Church, by policy or by culture, smile or frown upon young men who choose to serve in the military over serving a mission? My sister is frantic and depressed over her son's choice to enter the air force rather than serve a mission.  I have a vague memory of hearing that the church considers this a valid and honorable choice.  I'm looking for something to comfort my sister and let her know this is not the end of the world.  I know of course that during the drafts and wars of the 20th century making such a choice was at times unavoidable.  But what about now? Anyone able to help?

[Admin]

I once wrote the First Presidency over the issue. The reply was one based on prayer and receiving an answer from God. Both are honorable, but you only get to serve a full time mission once.

[EAG]

its his choice to serve and its far better for him not to go if he doesn't want to then to go and end up coming home early. his decision to join the air force could be his way of saying he is afraid to serve a mission or he may not want to go at all. it is completely possible to join the air force and serve a mission, i had a friend who went to boot camp and then went on his mission and then went on active duty so it is possible, i'm not sure what kinds of hoops you would have to jump through to arrange that.   

[Admin]

He wasn't on active duty until after he finished his mission of course, right?

The military is so read for new recruits that they will most likely facilitate any reasonable arrangement to get you in.

[EAG]

this was before 9/11 i think, but yeah he wasn't on active duty until he finished his mission, i believe they call it a service obligation deferral. its important to remember to get everything in writing when dealing with recruiters   

[JoePublic]

Name: Ronan

Comments: I did both.  Served in the Army for 6 years then served a mission.  The church supports you either way, but still would rather you serve a mission first.  Too many things can happen in the military that could deter you from a mission.  I\'ve even seen some wards that make plaques for both missionaries & members serving in the military. 

For me it was a very personal decision to serve the military and not a mission at the time and I have no doubt it made me a better missionary and helped me prepare for my mission.