What is it like being an active duty nurse? Please share experiences.

How many hours do you work a week, how long are the shifts?
What are the chances of getting your first pick such as Hawaii or Texas to be stationed?
How soon can one take a specialty course such as Critical Care Nursing Course? and will I be put into the ICU right away? Forward surgical team sounds good.
How long are deployments, is it 180 days or 360 days "boots on the ground"
Do I get to provide care for my fellow soldiers or is it family and retirees?
Which service is best to join? Army, Navy, Airforce?
By the end of this year when I am able to join, ill have 1 year nurse experience