Thanks for all the great information, gents. I honestly appreciate it. I've read some great threads over at aptap.org that have shed some light on this, thanks for the tip.

Sounds like most feel the guard is the best bet. At my age of 32 however, I don't have time to enlist, find a guard with a spot, do the requisite networking, yada yada yada... before I hit the magic 33. Hopefully I'll be able to go guard down the road if it's available after my service commitment.

Just to shed light on my situation, I interviewed for a position a month ago that I am waiting to hear back on. It's a fantastic opportunity (the kind you'd like to get after the military), and I will gladly accept the position if chosen. If not, I am submitting the packet the day after I get the news. I'll let y'all know if it goes that direction. At this juncture though, I feel either way may present itself as a great opportunity.