Most people join the military through the Delayed Entry Program (DEP), a kind of "military on layaway" plan where basic training is delayed for up to a year while the person finishes school or attends to other business. In the time between signing up and leaving for basic training, much can happen that might change a person’s mind about joining the military.

If you change your mind, your recruiter may tell you that it is too late, that once you have signed up, you are in the military. This is not true. You are not actually a member of the military until you take your second oath, when you report for basic training.

If you have changed your mind about joining the military, for reasons of conscience, family obligation, or other, you can be released without negative implications. Visit http://www.afsc.org/youthmil/choices/dep.htm for more information.