Rep Power: 766

Retirement ages are effectively the same for enlisted and officer in the 4 branches (USAF, USA, USN, USMC). Commissioned Officer requires college completion (except battlefield promotions in times of war), so trying to get "promoted" to officer ranks won't happen without the college diploma. Warrant Officer promotions take more time.
So going into the military right out of hs means you're enlisted. You would need to try to complete all college courses while still working your job, which usually means more than 8 years of that "night class" action.
If you plan to be an officer, it would be easier to complete your college and go in as an officer. That's an easy and secure way to pay off your student loans, plus get job experience.
If you plan to be a career officer (20 years, more if you choose), you might consider this: In the Marine Corps, one medal award issued is the Good Conduct Medal. It's given only to enlisted personnel after 3 years of service without major problems - not sure if AF has the same deal. Many a career officer has bemoaned that he didn't have that one medal (showing that he is a mustang, an officer promoted from enlisted), and they would gladly trade any other medal they've earned for one GCM - because mustangs have immediate credibility with the enlisted they command.

 
Rep Power: 725

not joining the academy gonna do rotc at sac state

 
Rep Power: 789

my dad always told me that if i join i should try to go in with a comission like ur planning on doing cause he went in right after high school and was enlisted for years worked his way to master sgt. then got his comission and just retired last year as a major so i would definatly reccomend trying to go in as an officer based of what he told me and what i saw growing up.

 
Rep Power: 718

My wife is in the Af and if you want to get treated the best and not have to worry about getting shot at the Af is the way to go

 
Rep Power: 930

I wouldnt go as far as saying that.
It all depends on your job, There are AF guys boots in the sand over there. I have 2 friends over there now that are in the AF doing patrols in the security forces.