It IS a big decision catnapper! Accepting the financial aid also means that he could be activated. The service is a wonderful character building experience for young men and women but is not to be taken too lightly. I can understand your concerns very well as all of our family comes from military active duty background - my dad(Korea and WWII), my mom (WWII) and hubby (Vietnam and Gulf War), then Missy's hubby(soon to deploy) It is so much more than a way to save money because if he is called to active duty - the pay is not all that great but hopefully he is doing this because he wants to. My oldest son, Misha's daddy had a full scholarship after four years of Junior ROTC - to college but decided to go private instead and he seems very happy to be a civilian. We would encourage any of our children to serve if they wanted. (I would still be scared of course!!) Is there anyone active duty in your family that he could talk with?? Blessings!!