Hey all!

Well, our son got sworn into the DEP this week. He signed a contract for AECF, but his goal was to work toward SEAL prior to shipping out next year. His recruiter just called and told him his vision didn't meet the requirements, and they told him he qualifies for EOD. Our son is aware of the physical testing and all of that, basically I am posting because we'd like to hear some of your stories about your young men and women in the EOD field.

Naturally, as parents we think the worst. While I know both are dangerous jobs, we'd mentally prepared ourselves for him going into SEAL. Now that he's seeking EOD, we're even more worried. We know the risks, and I'm just hoping some of you will help to offer us a little peace of mind. We would prefer he stick with his job on his contract, but we understand it's his life and when he is going to do what he wants to do, regardless. We're also concerned about his civilian opportunities in this field, as we know that AECF would offer a ton of jobs once he's out of the Navy.

So...anyone wish to share their concerns/stories about having a child in the EOD field? Is it as bad as we think, as far as the risks?

In addition, we'd like to know what happens if he does take a job in EOD, and doesn't pass the training. We've heard different stories from the recruiters working with him. He was originally told that if he didn't pass the training, he'd have the AECF to fall back on. Another recruiter told us there are no guarantees, and he may not have a job at all.

Thanks in advance for your feedback. :)