I'll weigh in, but take it with a grain of salt from an old guy who probably doesn’t know shit:
1. If you can afford the truck, jump in. Gas will set you back on a monthly basis. I bought the aftermarket Ford Premium Care plan to 100K mi. I judged it a good investment and it’s already paid for itself. Find storage for your vehicle yourself, budget for it and don’t leave it at your folks house, unless they have a 5 car garage. USAA is great insurance, we’ve had it on everything (houses, boats, cars, etc.) for 30+ years.
2. If your folks are willing to throw in some cash…great, but if you get in over your head financially, consider that they will want you to make good decisions with their money too. If they are well off, they didn’t get there from pissing money away.
3. If you aren't already kicking in $$'s in a 401K or other retirement plan, start now and never touch it (including borrowing against it)....I know it's a long time from now, but you can put a 6-pack-o-Bud on my cold, dead carcass when you stare at your $2.5M retirement account and don’t have to suck at the gubbermint teet to buy a box of Cheezits.
4. As a leader in training (regardless of rank) ... first thing I always recommend is to surround yourself with people above you, and more importantly, below you who know the job and you can trust. Always be professional, don't share personal stuff, complain up the chain and for gawd's sake, don't suck up and don't pump yourself up with all your personal achievements, it makes people puke. Let your performance and behavior speak for itself. Don’t talk down to your subordinates; provide leadership (focus on process and results). Listen to the subtle messages your team gives you, watch their faces, then be decisive. If a man (or woman) doesn’t have integrity, they aint shit.
5. Congrats on attending the USNA. My oldest son is an 08 grad and is flying Growlers.
6. Finally, thank you for your service to the USA.
