Ever felt like not showing up for Basic?

Has anyone who has served ever thought about not showing up for Basic Training? Or ever felt like quiting while in Basic?

My OSUT was 18 weeks, joined at 17... Only one time while in Basic I ever questioned what was I doing...

Just wondering if others felt like not showing but did? Or those who didn't show up, why?

2009-02-09T12:46:26Z

It never entered my mind to not show up or leave. But I've been reading a lot of question here from people about what would happen to them if they didn't go...

2009-02-09T13:55:21Z

I've already did almost 6 years in. Wanted to do more, but suffered an injury that preventing me from going on...

Anonymous2009-02-09T12:48:17Z

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The night before I left for basic "The DI" starring Jack Webb came on TV. I didn't think about not going, but it kind of got me nervous. After I was in I had to go to a hospital that was at another base. Three weeks of boot camp and I could just stroll outside and be gone. The thought went through my mind but I stayed where I was. Finished basic on time and never thought about it again until I saw your question.

SFCVet2009-02-09T15:36:19Z

i was 17 went I left for basic as well, and I wil admit I was nervous. Just a bit about not being able to hack it (always been a bit of a perfectionist) but more so about the vast life change I knew I was about to make. When I kissed my parents and family goodbye i didn't want to let go but did anyway. I didn't help when my plane got delayed and ended up leaving a day later.

Many years later, I am happy I did, and don't regret it one bit. I think people are in denial that say they weren't at least nervous before they left.

Anonymous2009-02-09T12:53:29Z

I should be leaving for basic in 20 days or so. The thought went through my mind not to show up since I know I will miss my wife and son for over a few months but I know I will get through it and its for the best in the long run, even short run. I know many people just get nervous before they go and want to quit and many say BT was the worse part of joining but afterwards it gets much much better so it is best just to follow through on your oath to your country and pride in yourself and go through with it and once that small amount of time is over it should be easier and you can see other countries, get help with college, and meet many new people.

Anonymous2009-02-09T12:53:22Z

I asked my self why in the hell i joined the army when i arrived and every time i went for a run. Its not a bad deal over time and go back to school or pay off school loans. You raised your right hand so honor your contract. Your enlistment is probably not as long as mine (5 years of fun) so just knock it out it will pass by quickly.

Alex,one-eyed in the land of the blind.2009-02-09T12:54:52Z

If something like that is done,it would be one of the biggest life mistakes.It will follow you forever.

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