I retired Navy in 2003 and I agree about the officer part, O is the way to go!
If I had to do it again, the Air Force for me. They normally have the best of everything. I guarantee you less hrs than the Navy. He would have every opportunity to go to school and get whatever degree he wants. Now that I'm out and looking at my pension, I realize their are many out here that have a better pension. Yes, we collect when we get out, BUT, I currently work at a municipality and my supervisor showed me his pension slip last year. He's my age and will be collecting quite a bit over $50,000 a year (could go to $60,000), and there's a lot more where that came from. Reason I bring this up, pride is great but nowadays, I say go where the going is good. USAF, it's also much easier on a marriage hands down. I had some good days in the Navy, no doubt, but days have changed. Take the easier road, it's less dusty.