I'm not sure if I should join the Royal Navy or the Royal Marines?

It takes less time to join the navy. Although, the Marines are technically part of the navy, and you have to join through the navy. You can join straight away, and you don't need to spend any time in the navy apart from application. It probably is normal to have some fears, but the majority of soldiers and Royal Marines who get killed is very low (1 in 300 or something), and the chance of losing a limb are still very small (1 in 200 or similar). Most (90%?) troops come back safe and are deployed several times, and return safe again.