I am in a similar boat as you my friend. I waited till I was 21 to join up, and I leave in march for basic. I don't have a wife or child but I will offer you any help I can give you. Any questions you have that I might be able to answer for you or if you would like someone to chat with this about please feel free to send me a personal message. As for Navy Nuke, it will be one of the best investments for your future, further research will show you this. I will say that Nuke life (from what I have been told) is not easy on new families, that isn't to say however that you won't be fine. I simply mention this so that it is also on your mind while making your decision. A note on the respect, my first military funeral was when I was 10 years old at my grandfathers funeral. He was a navy man, and what a beautiful service. I still shed a tear or two at any military funeral and since that day I have had a longing to be part of the military. I can understand your desire for that well deserved acknowledgement and respect.
Gedds