A couple of comments:

> 1. I could learn new skills.

Just remember that the skills most people learn are ones that won't do you a whole lot of good in real life. And if the Army (or whoever) promises you something specific beforehand; that you will do this or that specific thing, don't believe them. Promises made before you join mean very little to them, and they will easily screw you to get you to join, at which point they can do what they want with you.

> I am willing to risk it for a noble cause.

Chances are if you join in the next couple of years, you are going to Iraq. If you consider that a noble cause, more power to you. But consider that re-enlistments in the armed forces are way down right now; I don't think the people there are very happy about being there.