Most of the people I encountered in the Marines were complete morons. Joining the military only because they lacked the intelligence and drive to educate themselves at a university. Actually, I can think of only one person I met who I would consider smart, and he just happens to be one of my best friends to this day.
I joined for the some of the benefits the military has like the Montgomery GI Bill. Which gives you $50k for college. However in hindsight, I really wish I would have just gone straight to college out of high school. The military was a big waste of my time, considering I'm 23 and still have 3 years of school left, making me at least 26 by the time I graduate. But whatever, can't do shit about it now, just gotta roll with the punches.
sigh