Thinking of joining the Army National Guard... Would like opinions. I am...

[spenneberg]

...a 22 year old married mother of 2.? My children are 10 months and 2.5 years. I have been married for almost 4 years. I am so tired of worrying about bills and wondering if my job of four years is something i really want to do even though its a great job.

My husband and I have discussed him joining but he would need to get his GED and i don't think he could survive it. I am finally ready to hold my own and have something that sets me for a long time. Right now they are offering a 20,000 bonus as well as college and every other perk. I realize it could cost me my life and the next 87 years but I am ok with that.

I definately am not in the shape i was before I had my children. I am around 5'8 and 225 lbs. But i am a really hard worker and am dedicated to making my family's life better. $20,000 would get us free of debt and would knock us down to almost no bills.

What type of financial support can I expect? What does a typical person with a family and children earn through basic traning?

Any thoughts?
Would they pay for any housing while at basic training?

I guess i am just asking all of this to help me decide what the best option for us is. I am ready adn willing to serve my country.