Congratulations and good luck to your sons (daughters). With regard to their re-enlistment plans, there are many things to consider. Advantages of "STAR": Make E-5 faster, therefore make E-6 faster, therefore more regular pay. With E-5 comes more sea pay and sub pay and the option to live off base, depending on location. Unless your sons go to instructor duty, their chances of rolling early to shore duty are minimal. The most important thing to consider is whether or not your sons like their duty. Navy nuke life on board ship is not for everyone, though if they like it after the first 18 months on board, they will probably continue to like it. Every case is different. I hated my first boat but re-enlisted for the money after I got paid for E-5 (I made it off the test at NPTU). I rolled a year early to teach at nuke power school (I waived a C school). I had no intention of staying in but while on shore duty I made Chief and rolled back to sea. I had a great CPO tour though it was very challenging. I'm now a Master Chief getting ready to retire next year after 24 years of service. It just goes to show you anything can happen. -Derek Murray
