You are enlisting in an active armed service of the United States, one that has fought in every major battle the US has engaged in. There is a chance that you will at some point get stationed overseas in an active theatre of combat. Reservist's are more likely to be called than Active due to the nature of our service.
I cannot give you the "chances" as I do not know, I will tell you this, you have a 100% greater chance of deployment to theater as a reservist than as a civilian. Another note, If called to Duty, you are under orders and are required to report, regardless of employer interaction.
Deployments aside, your primary base will be within a reasonable distance of your domicile.
Vr,
Chuck
These poor, plain men, dwellers upon the lonely sands of Hatteras, took their lives in their hands, and, at the most imminent risk crossed the most tumultuous sea…and all for what? That others might live to see home and friends. — Annual Report of the U.S. Life- Saving Service, 1885
Recruiting Website Read here for answers to the most often asked questions about joining the Coast Guard!