Young Brother, pump your brakes. Freemasonry will be here. What's the rush? Get your Military Career started FIRST,which will secure your future and livelihood. Next, do as much research as you can on the Lodges where you will be stationed. No need to petition at home, and then you are slated to leave soon. The two BEST options for your Masonic journey are Prince Hall Affiliated (PHA) Lodges, or Mainstream Lodges. These two are RECOGNIZED AND REGULAR, and will allow you to be a true WORLDWIDE Mason. Last, but not least, your relationship with your Father is important, and even though you two disagree on THIS issue, as you and he both grow older, you will see that the conflict AT THIS TIME probably isn't worth it. Join the Military, and while you are away, THEN seek the LIGHT that Masonry offers. You come home a more well informed Brother Mason AND Career Military Man serving our Country, I think the time will allow you and your Father to settle this difference. All of the best to you, Young Man. Keep us informed on your progress in and through Boot Camp, as well as in Masonry, if you decide to join. This is definitely a good move for you, as long as you join a lodge that will teach, reach, and support you. Regards, Bro Vincent C. Jones, Sr. Bayou City Lodge 228, Prince Hall Affiliation, Free and Accepted Masonry, Houston, Texas, MWPHGLTX