Friends and Family Reactions to Joining - Myth Busting: Army Edition

How do you tell your family you’re joining the Army, and what do you say when they don’t understand why? 

It’s a question many people face when they start thinking about Army life. In this blog, we hear from real serving soldiers about how their friends and families reacted when they shared their decision to join. Some were surprised. Some were worried. But many became proud supporters once they understood what Army life is really like. 

You’ll get honest stories, helpful insights, and a better idea of how to talk to your own loved ones about joining the Army. Because when they know what’s possible, they might just see it the way you do. 

Find out what they have to say, watch our video now. 

“My Mum Was Really Worried…” 

It’s normal for families to feel unsure at first. One soldier in the video shares: 

“So, actually my mum was really worried because she didn't know much about the Army at all.” 

That’s a common story. Many people only know what they see on TV or in the news. But once they learn more, things often change. 

“Once I got them down to see what it was like…they were really supportive from that point onwards. 

Just like with anything new, whether it’s starting a job, moving to a new place, or joining the Army, it helps to see things for yourself. That’s why the Army offers visiting days and open events, so families can get a real feel for what life is like. It’s a chance to ask questions, ease worries, and discover the wide range of roles available. 

It’s Not All Combat – And Your Loved Ones Might Not Know That 

Many friends and family think joining the Army means heading straight into combat. It’s a common assumption and one that serving soldiers often have to explain isn’t true. 

One soldier shares: 

“Before I joined the Army I was training to be a ballet dancer, I ended up joining as a Dental Nurse which was totally a different career route.” 

This kind of story helps show that Army life includes a huge variety of roles; like healthcare, engineering, logistics, communications, and more. These jobs are vital to how the Army works, and they offer real career paths with training, qualifications, and long-term benefits. 

“With this, we've got a pension, we've got qualifications, you get to see the world and you stand on your own two feet.” 

Helping your loved ones understand what’s really available can make a big difference. Once they see the options, they often feel reassured and proud. 

From Worry to Pride 

It’s natural for families to feel nervous when someone they love decides to join the Army, especially if they don’t know much about it. One soldier shares: 

“My mum was a bit terrified because Afghanistan was going on… but overall, massively proud, really happy… and they are really proud of me still.” 

That shift from concern to pride is something many soldiers experience. Once families understand the opportunities, like gaining qualifications, growing as a person, and making a difference, they often become your biggest supporters. 

When Your Family Already Gets It 

For some people, joining the Army feels like a natural step, especially if they come from a military background. One soldier shares: 

“My Dad was in the Royal Navy, my brother-in-law was in the RAF, my Grandad was Fire Service during the War.” 

When your family already knows what Army life involves, there’s less explaining to do. They understand the structure, the support, and the career options. That can make the decision to join feel easier and more supported from the start. 

They’ve seen the benefits first-hand: travel, training, teamwork, and a strong sense of purpose. And they know it’s a career with real opportunities. 

Support for a Fresh Start 

Sometimes, joining the Army is about more than just starting a career, it’s about starting over. One soldier shares: 

“I was quite a troubled kid… my friends were taking me down a bad path… I needed to get away from that.” 

When loved ones see that the Army offers structure, purpose, and a chance to grow, their support often follows. They recognise the positive change and the opportunities ahead. 

“Probably the best decision I've made, and they know that as well.” 

The Army offers structure, support, and a chance to build a better future. 

Real People, Real Stories 

This blog is part of a series designed to break down myths and show the real Army through real voices. If you missed the previous posts, catch up here: 

• What’s the role of the Army?

• Where could you be based while in the Army?

Ready to Learn More? 

If you’re thinking about joining the Army, or just curious, keep exploring. Watch the video, read the other blogs, and when you’re ready, find the role that fits you.