I was active duty Navy for eight years. I then did the Blue to Green program that HickMan mentioned - which means I did both Navy and Army boot camps. I was in the Army reserve for three years and I've been a civilian for almost three years now. I've got all sorts of real answers if you need them. Just ask.
In the meantime, I suggest you read this thread in its entirety. It will answer a few of your questions. (it's more Navy-centric near the 2nd page methinks)
http://www.i-mockery.com/forum/showt...t=17004&page=1