If your goal is to be trained and get experience. Active Duty is where you want to go.

I know when people say they can leave for long. But the 1st year of training is all the same. No matter what branch you join. Basic, Advance training then on the job.

Do a couple more and you get all of the benefits. With schooling paid and living expenses for years.

My suggestion would be to do some research. Find all of the units that you have in the area where your kids are living. See what type of jobs they have at the units.

If medical is the career field you want to work in. Look at all the Active Duty branches. See what they can offer you. Sign up for the shortest period of time.

Do your initial training. Then save your money to travel home when you can. And to have your kids with you when they are out of school.