As a former grunt in the US Army, i can tell you that the army is mostly a support mechanism. For its sheer size, only a very small amout are actually combat personel. That being said, it is possible to be caught in combat while providing support, but that means that a: someone screwed up or b: someones in trouble and the support must go, period.
If you want a cool combat job without the bullets, go for the "Kings of Battle". Artillery rulz. Just bring ear plugs. Lots and Lots of ear plugs.
And yes, they own you. Why this would seem unusual to someone, I dont understand.
Dont worry about the Drill's Sgt.'s. By the end of basic training, you will be having the time of your life.
Also, the army will TRAIN you do do all kinds of things, and any civilian company with a brain will take a retired vet over a green college grad anyday of the week. Heck, it will take an NCO with four years service over a college grad any day of the week. Now I know someone will say, "but the army wont teach you "x" tech skill" or whatever, and no, it wont teach every "x" tech skill you can think of, but a company will hire you to be the "x" skill guys boss since you will have developed leadership training and proven your ability to manage very difficult tasks under very difficult circumstances. Plus the schooling is great - Army vets get more school monies from the Gov than any other branch, all military get special home buying breaks. Many colleges are offering up to 1 free year for service men and women now. But, yes, you must be willing to attach yourself to something greater than yourself and be a part of something that affects the real everyday lives of people around the world.
Wow jude, do you actually believe your delusions? how long have you lived in this fantasy world? I strongly suggest disconnecting your tv for awhile and going outside to see how the world really works