Join the Coast Gurad, or if you hate water, the Army or National Guard.

http://www.gocoastguard.com/

http://www.1800goguard.com/home.html

http://www.goarmy.com/flindex.jsp

I've known people in your position that did this, and it worked out very well for them both during their service, and later. A lot of companies will hire vets, and your employment gap will not be as significant.


Good luck!