E1 or E3 it truly doesn't matter. E4 is where thing start to change for certain ratings. Let's say your a BM3 (Boatswain Mate), as a E4 you have a lot of power and respect. However, lets say you're a ET (Electronic Tech) then you have nothing, you are just a puke like the E1-E3's. For ET things change at the E5 level.
Without a waiver, you cannot bring your family with you overseas as a E3. Waivers are normally approved, but they don't have to be. Read the Policy here:
http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-np...s/1300-302.pdf
Frankly you need to think about studying instead of getting married. Depending on your spouse background, they could pull your security clearance. You just can't be granted a SBI security clearance without a check.
Per commissioning. This is the 2010's. It's not like the old days where you got a college degree that they would earn a commissioning. Today, unless you have a strong background in Science or Math, then its really hard to get. The best thing is to apply for a program called "Seaman to Admiral" (STA-21). That's about the best way. You always have the opition of dropping your Navy contract and join the Army. They do allow direct commissioning.
With STA-21, you go where the Navy needs you. I had two sailor work for me that applied and got into STA-21. One remained in Intel, the other was put into Boat Driving school... So it varies a lot....
btw: CTR is an excellent rating. I'm a retired CT, and my whole family is CT's. I know how much CT's make on the outside. (they make a lot of $$$)