Describe a time when you struggled with getting out the military or staying in. How did you come up with your final decision?

2016-06-11T00:33:13-04:00

Response by CW3 Dylan E. Raymond, PHR made Jun 11 at 2016 12:43 AM

2016-06-11T00:43:09-04:00

I am at a point where it is a struggle trading in the ID CAC card for a retired ID card. Being in a unit talking with Soldiers that look to you for guidance and in my mind that I am going to miss that. I struggle with not wearing the uniform where when I walk down the halls or on base individuals recognize my rank, by Drill SGT badge,, my recruiter badge. So that is a struggle for me. I feel though that my time in service is coming to and end so my goal is to retire in the next 6 months or so.

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Jun 11 at 2016 1:04 AM

2016-06-11T01:04:30-04:00

I spent 3 hours working on 3 PowerPoint slides. I was home by 10pm to a cold dinner and a wife who asked me "are you enjoying yourself at work?" Deep inside I know the answer was no.

I chose to stay because I got a 3 year gig at Camp Darby, Italy in the Pisa area.

A few years later in Alaska I knew Anchorage, Alaska was the place to be with the family. I would rather retire MAJ in Alaska than LTC or COL anywhere else. No regrets. Proud of the past, pleased with the present, and full of energy for the future.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2016 1:11 AM

2016-06-11T01:11:39-04:00

After I had my first child I lost interest in staying in the Army Reserve and went into the IRR. Eventually I came back and realized I could lean in and that I could do it even with children.

Response by Capt Michael Greene made Jun 11 at 2016 1:52 AM

2016-06-11T01:52:44-04:00

When I was a USN E-6 nearing 10 years, my CMDR asked what it would take to stay in. At the time, you could either take a bonus or choose your duty station. But I knew my value on the open market, so I insisted on both, plus another tech school. After a couple months, the CMDR said he got me the bonus and the duty station, but not the tech school. So I quite the Navy and went to college on the old GI Bill.

When I was a USAF O-3E nearing 20, I took a stateside assignment just because I had never been stateside (except for training). Worst mistake I ever made. Bored me to tears. No commies outside the gate, no real-world scrambles, no life-threatening emergencies in the middle of the night. I figured perhaps being a flight commander might be a satisfying challenge. But just then, the Chief general of the Air Force announced that all the command jobs would go to pilots only. On hearing that, I walked down to Personnel and signed my papers.

Response by Maj John Bell made Jun 11 at 2016 4:19 AM

2016-06-11T04:19:38-04:00

Loved the Corps. A bad CO proved to me that the Corps wasn't what I thought it was. Tried to fall back in love. DIDN'T. Then my 7yr old son reacted badly to my deployment. Took two years to
1)prep for my exit,
2)reconcile with my son and
3)fall back in love with the Corps.
After two years, said "Adios".

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2016 5:06 AM

2016-06-11T05:06:58-04:00

The USAF usually gives officers seven days to accept their PCS orders. Rejecting them means automatic separation at the conclusion of any service commitments. I have held my PCS orders for the entire 7 days for 5 out of 7 of my PCS moves. The two times I accepted my orders immediately were the time I voluntarily moved from ANG to Active Duty and the time I had no option due to a school service commitment. The other 5 times I had excellent options on the table in the civilian world. So, I feel your struggle. I came up with my final decision after prayer and consulting with my bride and have not gone wrong thus far.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jun 11 at 2016 6:06 AM

2016-06-11T06:06:40-04:00

Went IRR two years after accident at work, miss the comradeship. It's hard to decide, but when the body says enough, you listen.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2016 6:56 AM

2016-06-11T06:56:08-04:00

After serving for 10 years, it was time to make a decision to stay and retire or exit the Army. One of the reason to go was not being promoted in an overage MOS, and ETS rapidly approaching, struggled with the decision, CW4 ask the AG LTC to move me to his section. Things finally worked out was promoted, attended ANCOC, stayed to retirement.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Jun 11 at 2016 7:28 AM

2016-06-11T07:28:53-04:00

I spent an entire year struggling with staying in or getting out And spoke to my family, friends, and superiors who all said it was my decision. My CO wanted me to stay in and suggested I apply for OCS which I did but then decided I didn't want to be a 2nLt or stay in the Marine Corps.
It took me about another year before I realized I made a big mistake & had friends who were in Vietnam while I was working on the Apollo Program in Downey CA earning what I thought were bigger bucks.

I think enlisting on my 18th birthday which is also the USMC birthday may have had a lot to do with my wanting to be a career marine but back in that time the pay was much less than what the Aerospace Industry was willing to offer at salaried levels.

Response by CAPT Douglas McDonald made Jun 11 at 2016 7:54 AM

2016-06-11T07:54:09-04:00

Offered post graduate 2 yr with 4 yr payback...saw myself on 2yr sea duty after...too many years away from stable family life...went sellers..

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Jun 11 at 2016 8:55 AM

2016-06-11T08:55:48-04:00

I had a toxic C.O.C. but realized that it too will pass. Thank the God that P.C.S was a regular event in the late 70's and early 80's. I made the best decision of my life by staying in. Good luck with your decision.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Jun 11 at 2016 9:05 AM

2016-06-11T09:05:06-04:00

CW3 Dylan E. Raymond, PHR I am at this crossroads as of now. I have been put in this position because of the streamlining of our Military. I desire to serve however it has been determined that I have to much time in service so no promotion considered. I was not QMPed or QSPed. That being said we my family and I knew it was time.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Jun 11 at 2016 9:24 AM

2016-06-11T09:24:41-04:00

We were facing a RIF after the Viet Nam War draw-down, and my career field was not much in demand. I had a job lined up with my previous employer and decided to get out before I had to compete for jobs with half the Air Force.

It was a remarkably foolish decision on my part.

Response by CW3 Dylan E. Raymond, PHR made Jun 11 at 2016 10:08 AM

2016-06-11T10:08:25-04:00

There does come a tie where one struggle with 2 in some cases opposing decisions. What is it that would have you evaluate the 2 and make decision on 1? Always remember whether you like it or not good, bad or ugly whatever decision you make is the right decision for you and your family even if you initially dont see a clear way ahead.

Response by MAJ Michael Pauling made Jun 11 at 2016 10:55 AM

2016-06-11T10:55:37-04:00

For me it was when I received my 20 year Letter (I was only 38) I had already had a Command, travelled 4 Continents and a Combat Tour.......my Dad who was a Military Retiree tells me something prophetic " If you live for nothing but the uniform , then you forget what the uniform is protecting..." when you mak eyour deiciosn make it for the life you want not the life you know

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2016 11:51 AM

2016-06-11T11:51:48-04:00

my time came as 1fg got busted dwi , my command did'nt take action but i did, and they allowed me to retire, as a leader i saw that my integrity was in question so i did what needed to be done

Response by SFC Roberto Garza Jr. made Jun 11 at 2016 11:55 AM

2016-06-11T11:55:17-04:00

I had always known I would stay in forever, well I was a young Sergeant with about four years in and had just had it, I came home complaining to my wife and saying " Forget this I'm done, I'm tired of this. " She looked at me and said shut up, quit complaining, you know your never gonna get out so just deal with it. At first I was shocked then I was like yeah your right. I retired after 21 years, but I retired because I was done and I wanted to be with my family all the time. Kind of funny how things work out, probably not what you expected to hear but it was true, I was a lifer and for me, one day my son was watching home videos, he watched about four hours worth and what broke my heart was that I was in none of the tapes he watched. I was done, I dropped my retirement paperwork. Now I am spending time with my family and loving it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2016 12:13 PM

2016-06-11T12:13:45-04:00

I was just put in this position. Ultimately I stayed in due to the fact that I was able to reenlist for an ASI that I wanted.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2016 1:31 PM

2016-06-11T13:31:14-04:00

Traveling to and from Washington DC. Transformation in organizational leadership and the Education and training branch, I was on the brink of leaving... My Supervisor transferred me to another flight and I had a solid Senior NCO show support and guidance. Motivated to support the team, I struggled through the travel and requirements and set new goals to stay motivated. A decade later I am kicking butt, solving problems and mentoring many.

Response by SSG Pete Fleming made Jun 11 at 2016 2:25 PM

2016-06-11T14:25:30-04:00

I made a huge mistake. I got out. I was in the guard at the time and had intensions of getting back in after a short break... 12 years later it doesn't look I will ever be able to. Life takes unexpected turns.

Response by SFC Robert Alsup made Jun 11 at 2016 6:47 PM

2016-06-11T18:47:07-04:00

When I PCS'D to Fort Irwin, I had planned on doing three years then retiring. After being there 4 months, it was an easy decision and I dropped my packet and retired 10 months later.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Jun 11 at 2016 6:57 PM

2016-06-11T18:57:07-04:00

It was hard on me as I was getting a medical discharge and the military was all I knew. I had to come to terms that I was now irrelevant to the Army.

Response by TSgt William Meyer made Jun 11 at 2016 7:09 PM

2016-06-11T19:09:11-04:00

I was in an Air Guard unit as a full time technician, it was a 2 person shop and the other person made my life miserable every day. I had my 20 year letter, and after I did a short tour in Afghanistan, came home and retired. Also my wife told me play time was over and enough was enough.

Response by SSG Edward Joy made Jun 11 at 2016 7:16 PM

2016-06-11T19:16:38-04:00

When it's not fun anymore it's time to leave.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2016 7:33 PM

2016-06-11T19:33:08-04:00

I'm at the point now where I am realizing that the military in general no longer has the comrade that used to be there. I am over 10 years and am debating on exiting at the end of my contract. This is my second unit in a row with people who would rather stab you in the back to get ahead rather than be a team player. The COC is no longer interested in the good of the SM and instead of being able to train properly the only training done is what benefits the current plan not the original intention. Senior leaders have lost the ability to lead and everything is "no fail" which means it's kept close to the chest and junior NCO'S aren't given the opportunity to learn.
There are still the good times and people who are so close a friend they are family but as a whole the military is changing even faster and going soft.
I have 3 more years on this current contract and I'm hoping it's just 2 bad units I have seen and not a picture of the group as a whole.

Response by SrA Jes Naber made Jun 11 at 2016 11:13 PM

2016-06-11T23:13:31-04:00

It was around 4 years in and I was potentially going to re-enlist. I just PCSed to a new base, Shop supervisor kept asking me to re-enlist and I kept replying I am seriously thinking about it. I finally was getting a little annoyed with him asking 6 times a day and I said you'll be the first to know sir! I must have had some sarcastic undertone to it because I was later called into his office and was told that I was getting deployed to support Operation Desert Storm. At that time, re-enlistment was an easy choice, NO! While I can still join the guard, and still think about it almost daily it would not be the same military I left years ago.

Response by GySgt Carl Rumbolo made Jun 11 at 2016 11:16 PM

2016-06-11T23:16:23-04:00

Never struggled with in or out - had a plan and stayed with it - walked away on my own terms, at my own time.

Response by CW3 Jared Hickox made Jun 12 at 2016 12:37 AM

2016-06-12T00:37:53-04:00

I knew it was time to retire when I woke up every morning with little desire to put on my uniform. I didn't feel like I could contribute any more of myself to my unit. I felt like I had nothing left to give. I still like teaching Soldiers, but I've lost the desire to deal with the stupid.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2016 3:55 AM

2016-06-12T03:55:51-04:00

I'm at that point right now. I do not have a lot of job satisfaction in my current rate (MOS) and an trying to crossrate (change mos) but my current rate is undermanned and may not let me go. To further complicate matter my wife graduates with her masters degree around the same time I'm supposed to rotate, which is only 6 months before my EAOS. So my four options are 1) get lucky and crossrate. 2)extend in my current job for a year to give her time to get a job so I can get out. 3)stay in my same field and hope for a better environment to crossrate later.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2016 6:00 AM

2016-06-12T06:00:28-04:00

I had just PCS'ed, at 19 years, from Hawaii back to the location of what I knew would be my retirement location and back into the property there that I owned. I was debating retirement to a small degree at that time, but upon inprocessing was informed that we were due to deploy in 9 months, hence no putting in a packet until after deployment. While on deployment I also became eligible in the secondary zone for the Sergeant Major Board. Knowing that they have been sending people to the schoolhouse from the secondary zone and knowing the commitment required after the school made me realize a few things. 1) I was currently back in my retirement home. 2) The time added for retirement as a SGM was approx 6 more years (taking into account the school, commitment, making the list and High 3 for retirement). Knowing this meant once more uprooting my family for at least 2 more PCS's and at a minimum 2 more deployments (I had already done 4 total up to this point) I was done. I submitted my packet while deployed and Retired 6 months after returning. It's been 6 years now, and I do not regret my decision one bit.

Response by CSM Michael Sweeney made Jun 12 at 2016 7:05 AM

2016-06-12T07:05:16-04:00

I was planning on retiring at the 20 year mark as a 1SG. Then I was selected to attend the Sergeants Major Course. In deciding to stay for 30 years I compared the retired pay of E-8 over 20 at 50% versus E-9 at 75%. That equated to nearly $1,000.00 per month more in retirement pay. Money wasn't the only reason to stay until mandatory retirement. It was also staying in a "job" that I knew versus the unknown. The last decade turned out to be very gratifying. When I did retired I did not transition well. I became a very angry DAC and Defense Contractor over the next 11 years. I am now fully retired and after 17 years since my Active Duty retirement life is great and I have finally overcome the pain of no longer being in the Army. I loved the Army and leaving it was like losing a close loved one.

Response by SFC John Hill made Jun 12 at 2016 9:27 AM

2016-06-12T09:27:06-04:00

When the Army did an MOS realignment and merged the 11Ms in with the 11Bs that made the decision for me. After the merger, my chances of getting promoted again were reduced to about 01%. Submitted my retirement packet shortly thereafter. Besides I was getting to old to be chasing a bunch of 18-19 old Privates around!

Response by CW5 Andrew J. Foreman made Jun 12 at 2016 8:24 PM

2016-06-12T20:24:16-04:00

I struggled at the 19 year mark. I have found that once I hit 20 it was liberating and gave me renewed energy.

Response by CW4 William Van Almsick made Jun 12 at 2016 8:36 PM

2016-06-12T20:36:19-04:00

I was 11 years into my career and we had just returned from an NTC deployment. I was a senior CW2 at the time. On our deployment out to NTC and the return deployment back to Ft. Campbell, we were treated more like prison convicts than members of the military. I was ready to get out. But, our company had a change of command and the new commander placed and demanded more responsibilities on us. He demanded more but he also had our backs if we made a mistake. It was a whole new ball game that I loved. A complete game changer.

After retirement, I had a couple of different jobs that just didn't measure up to being satisfied. But, I finally found a job that allowed me to manage, train, and mentor employees and I am loving work. There are jobs out in the civilian world that want military people that can think and make decisions without upper management holding your hand. But.....there are no badges to gain. You are only as good as your last assignment. Once you stop performing, you are expendable.

Response by MSgt Alvin A. made Jun 12 at 2016 8:36 PM

2016-06-12T20:36:29-04:00

There was more than ONE moment; if anyone doesn't admit this FACT, then they most certainly are not being upfront with you. When you walk in wanting to do 32 years... (but you couldn't say that to your Peer group), and you hit a Wall at 11 years and so many days... others observe it, and you suffer because it is obvious. It took a serious Gut check to remain in; even with a Promotion to E-6 staring me in the face.

It was the little things... like divorce, lacking money, being a single parent (Yes... I rose above that hurdle while serving), and a Fat Obese USAF Major as BOSS... add in the other little things like competitive career fields of one-upmanship, Quota's for Promotion (The USAF still denies it with a SMILE), and a Culture of not giving a shit.

Unlike the others... I'll be honest with you. Sucking it up PAID off; nobody cares about your feelings.

Response by SSG Rickey Nelson made Jun 12 at 2016 9:49 PM

2016-06-12T21:49:25-04:00

When I hit the 20yr. Mark

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Jun 12 at 2016 11:44 PM

2016-06-12T23:44:24-04:00

I was told by many of my friends who had retired before me, that one day i would wake up and realize that it was time to retire. I always had my doubts about this theory that my friends had said to me. But as i neared the time of retirement, i started to realize what they meant. And yes, i woke up one day and i realized that it was time. It was time primarily because i no longer had the fire within me to continue to drive on without giving it any thought. My family had always been of great importance to, and yet as i pondered the idea of retirement, i realize that my family is the main reason i would retire. I wanted to spend more time with them. I made the decision and i have been very happy ever since. We all will get to the point when we will have to come to that crossroad. Once we have been able to get past it, we realize it was time.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2016 2:07 AM

2016-06-13T02:07:25-04:00

I had a multitude of issues happen simaltaneously. A car accident, and divorce, and being fired from a job for reporting for Guard duty all within the span of 30 days.

We preach about MRT, Suicide Prevention, and the like, and with the exception of two people, no one in the unit cared nor decided to lift a finger to help. AER didn't come in, the assistance from FRG was well meaning but it came with all sorts of red tape, and then, my performance fell.

Couple that with the timeless problem that were more concerned with people's feelings and political correctness then being proficient and fully mission capable, it was time to get out.

Come my ETS, I popped smoke.

Response by CPT Roger Boucher made Jun 13 at 2016 8:28 AM

2016-06-13T08:28:52-04:00

I retired in 2012 after a deployment to Afghanistan and after I had already completed 25 years of service. I felt completely lost in my retirement, like I had just went through a sad divorce. I decided after two years that I wanted to go back in. It was a struggle but the Reserves took me so now I feel more at ease with my decision. At least I can still serve on some capacity. No regrets.

Response by Sgt Tito Velasquez made Jun 13 at 2016 8:47 AM

2016-06-13T08:47:42-04:00

I was almost court martial for hazing and I wanted to reenlist

Response by PFC Tiffany Sparks made Jun 13 at 2016 8:55 AM

2016-06-13T08:55:38-04:00

Unfortunately I didn't have a choice since I was med boarded. But the day I left I cried like a darn baby. The only thing I could think was that I wouldn't wear the uniform again. That I couldn't be a soldier again. My dream was to retire in the Army. So I know it may be hard but there are many like me that never got that chance. Look at it as a blessing. That you did you made it. Especially now when a lot of civilian companies support veterans.

Response by CW3 Steven Prestridge made Jun 13 at 2016 12:12 PM

2016-06-13T12:12:46-04:00

It was an easy decision for me. I started in the mid 80's, and we studied a lot of Soviet doctrine. I remember learning about the "Political Officers" assigned to each unit, and how they were there to ensure everyone thought "correctly". We used to laugh about that in training sessions.
Fast forward to the 2000's. We started getting EO's at every BN. I remember when my COL assigned the most worthless soldiers to the position. He told me it was the equivalent of putting a special needs kid in the corner to color so they won't have any impact on actual operations.
Fast forward to 2012. My first assignment to a CSS Group. I find H/R's not signed, supply sergeants showing up when they want, whining etc. I had a special case supply sergeant. E5 with 16 years, and no, I have no idea how that could have happened, nor did I care. I counselled him, mentored him, sent him back for refreshment training. I had warned him, repeatedly via email and voice not to spend money on the GPC after 01 September. I get a call on 03 September asking me why there was a charge. I emailed the G4 COL, an CC:ed the soldier saying that, "SGT X was told many times not to spend. Maybe he is retarded?"
Next thing I know, I'm in front of the XO being told that they are opening an EO complaint. I showed the XO my supporting documents, he didn't care. The soldier claimed I was racist. I asked the XO why I would recommend only 2 soldiers in the Group for Warrant Officer training, one from PR, the other made Wesley Snipes look albino, if I were racist in my job (one of the soldier's made it btw)?
I was told that we can't criticize soldiers like the old days. He wanted me yo take Sensitivity Training, and apologize. I explained that the soldier technically committed a crime with an unauthorized purchase. The XO didn't care.
At that moment I knew that people were actually taking these sensitivity traing sessions seriously and we are now the military with Political Kommisars.
Dropped my paperwork the following week.

Response by PO1 Jack Howell made Jun 13 at 2016 12:40 PM

2016-06-13T12:40:11-04:00

I didn't struggle with the decision to retire. I had exhausted all of my opportunities to try and get selected for chief petty officer and I had also reached what the Navy calls high year tenure for my pay grade (E-6), which is 20 years. The struggle for me was readjusting to being a full time husband to my wife and father to my 2 sons. I also struggled with not being able to be at sea and work with great people while displaying and passing on the wealth of knowledge that I had attained over the years (not to mention the fact that I had become very good at what I did). My other struggle was getting back into a school mindset after having been out of high school since 1992. I'm still struggling to some extent with certain subjects. However, the one thing that I want my kids to see is that it's important to not give up on something, no matter how hard things may be. I also want them to see that if dad can make it through college, then so can they.

Response by SSgt Jamie Ritter LeBlanc made Jun 13 at 2016 12:58 PM

2016-06-13T12:58:56-04:00

When the informal MEB came back and recommended discharge. I'd never deploy and my husband's unit wouldn't have to let him have the day off because our daughter had gotten yet another stomach virus because the Med Group always needed me worse (supposedly).

Response by SSgt Jamie Ritter LeBlanc made Jun 13 at 2016 12:59 PM

2016-06-13T12:59:09-04:00

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2016 3:46 PM

2016-06-13T15:46:09-04:00

I recently went through the same emotions. I submitted my retirement packet and was kinda sad. A few days later somebody came up to me and was questioning why I had a Soldier with a shaving profile in the BN color guard, but they never questioned why there was a transexual in the BDE color guard.

It is time for me to go because it is difficult to relate to the new set of values and sense of "normalcy" that has taken over. It isn't necessarily bad....but it is "different" enough that I can't support it any longer.

Response by TSgt Brian Wyngaert made Jun 13 at 2016 3:47 PM

2016-06-13T15:47:43-04:00

I met a young sailor they just came to his first Duty assignment and he was born the month after I went into basic. I already had my retirement date but I definitely knew it was time to retire then.

Response by CWO4 George Scruggs made Jun 13 at 2016 4:51 PM

2016-06-13T16:51:05-04:00

I decided to retire at 20, CWO3. Placement officer said, "if you'll stick around for 3 more I'll let you go to Coronado and play with the Seals. Best assignment ever. Now retired CWO4 with many great memories.

Response by CW4 Anthoney Lowry made Jun 13 at 2016 5:01 PM

2016-06-13T17:01:16-04:00

I knew I wasn't going to make W5, I don't have the political savvy for it. also it was time to move again. I wanted to go someplace not cold, flying UH-145's again, and Bn or BDe safety officer. I was offered: Alaska, flying OH-58D's, and BN stands officer. RETIRMENT IT IS!! Now I have a great job, get to see my family every night, and can plan a vacation a year in advance with out 50 pieces of paper to accompany the request.

Response by SGT Sara Hendrix made Jun 14 at 2016 12:48 AM

2016-06-14T00:48:23-04:00

I absolutely miss it. When I joined I was in a position where, despite being enlisted, I was also SMP with ROTC and was given a great deal of opportunity to take on additional duties, and take on some roles that allowed me to lead. I learned a great deal from the experiences I had. (was even told by a COL back then I was "wearing the wrong F-ing Brass" when he was surprised by the knowledge I had . My every intention was of going Army Nurse Corps and wish with everything I could still do so.

Response by SP5 Stacie Acevedo made Jun 14 at 2016 4:34 PM

2016-06-14T16:34:19-04:00

I was at Fort Hamilton, NY working at the S4. I had been out of the states for 3 1/2 years without my family (single mom). I had been at Fort Hamilton for 6 months when I came down on assignment to the 10th Mountain Division with a deployment date. I knew right then that I couldn't stay and I ended up getting out and I went to work with the Ordnance School. That was one of the best decisions of my life and this is the longest I have been with my girls (they are grown now).

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2016 12:14 PM

2016-06-15T12:14:26-04:00

I am 19 months from ETS. I currently have a little over 9 years in. In those 9 years, I have:
+ Deployed Twice
+ Spent 1 year in Korea (unaccompanied)
+ PCSed 5 times
+ 2 MOS
+ 2 Reenlistments
+ 2 Promotions

Immediately after coming home from Korea, we purchased our home. We have been working towards improving our home, inching towards an "off-grid" lifestyle (or as close to it as possible), and making our house a home.

The 82nd has sucked the joy I used to have for the Army out of me. I can hardly bear the stupidity of Active Duty ("Because Army, that's why!") for much longer. I have already been to the field more times in one year that I had in my previous 8 years of service (not counting deployments) and there is no end to it until I ETS. My unit is currently in the field every other month for 1-4 weeks at a time. I've already missed about 1/4 of my daughter's life.

Besides, my wife has declared that she is not moving again, and both she and my daughter will not attend unit functions because her opinions of my unit would likely get me in trouble.

I have been testing the civilian and federal job markets already, and have had mixed results. I get 2 or 3 IT contractors calling me each week wanting to hire me for long-term IT projects. I have gotten 2 federal job rejections and 1 "qualified, but not *most* qualified" thus far. So I am optimistic about leaving Active Duty and going Reserve.

Unless I get picked up for SFC/E-7 and get a platoon in another battalion, I'm gone.

Response by MSG Jim Sterling made Jun 30 at 2016 3:40 PM

2016-06-30T15:40:22-04:00

At 19 yrs 6 months I had decided it was time to put in my retirement request which I did. Three months later I made the SGM promotion list. SGM was one of my long term goals so I agonized day and night over the decision to stay or go and even put in a request to withdraw the retirement approval but then was told where my assignment was going to be and then I did the math. Almost a year for the sequence number to come up and then a two year lock in and an assignment I did not care for, so decided it was best to proceed on with retirement. That was one of the better decisions I have made for myself and family. Worked 17 years with a major utility here in Alabama and retired completely in 1994 at 56. Do have some regrets on turning down the SGM rank though.

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Jun 30 at 2016 4:11 PM

2016-06-30T16:11:10-04:00

Getting out was easy...lol. But staying in for 22 was hard the last 10 or so years for me. I felt I could still make a difference....so I reuped. When I started seeing that things were getting "stupid" I decided to end it. Every soldier knows when it's time to go...

Response by 1SG Kevin Merrill made Dec 30 at 2018 4:14 PM

2018-12-30T16:14:00-05:00

At nearly 36 years I thought I would leave kicking and screaming. But after my wife became seriously ill it was very easy to adjust my priorities. It's been just over a year ago now. I still miss it but do not regret the decision one bit. Making the most of the family time. Should have done it earlier.

Response by SFC Jimmy Williams made Dec 30 at 2018 6:18 PM

2018-12-30T18:18:58-05:00

My last two years were hard. We got a compassionate reassignment to ft hood due to my mother in law being sick. When she could not leave ft worth because of med treatments, my wife and kids took care of her while I lived in an apt in Killeen. That was a time of constant deployment to Somalia, Bosnia, Rhawanda, getmo,... I was on the E-8 list and headed to E-9.
But after two years and no resolution in sight for my wife's mother, I decided to retire. It was a difficult decision. I regret that I didn't complete my goals and service that I intended. But it was the right decision for my family.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2018 7:50 PM

2018-12-30T19:50:08-05:00

For me, I came into the Army not knowing a thing but the idea that i was going to have the opportunity to go to school and yet getting paid. I questioned handling a rifle but quickly fell in love love with my rifle after my first time ever handling any form of weapon. I guess my drill sergeant did a good job driving the fear out of me. For over 8yrs now, I can say that am happy with my choice and am in control of my career.
I think that the problem is that many soldiers fail to understand that the Army is something you have to adapt to rather than wanting it to adapt to your needs and goals. I had a goal to go to school and despite deployments, I met my first goal and are moving on to other goals and for free. Soldiers just need to find what makes them happy amongst the numerous services and opportunities available. Also, soldiers are scared to branch out and do other things. Even with the Army for example, are numerous installations, agencies, and career branches where soldiers can find something different to do.
For me, I think that I get myself every day ready should I have to leave the military. One thing I tried to highlight with my soldiers is that ETS readiness is not a 120 or 90 days deal but a continuous planning. If I didn't procrastinate or had someone to push me the first 3yrs of my service, I would have been way ahead of my goals. Rather than get out the first 3yrs ofvtheir service or judge their whole experience a a first duty station or one Unit, I encourage them to branch out either by changing Units or career. GO ARMY!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2018 8:51 PM

2018-12-30T20:51:57-05:00

That’s a great question.

Response by HA Jace Gallagher made Dec 31 at 2018 8:36 AM

2018-12-31T08:36:03-05:00

I was stupid and got myself put out of the Navy as an E2 after 3 years in. Luckily the CO showed compassion and allowed me an honorable discharge, but with RE4 enlistment code. I thought I hated the military but, looking back, I was just an immature 19 year old going in and thought the GI Bill was all that mattered. However, I miss serving and find civilian life to be even harder, even though I've been out since 2015. I have a possible Avenue back to the military through the TN Army National Guard if I can get the ASO approval and get past the steps that come after. If I convince them to give me another chance, I'm riding the Guard to retirement and hope to supplement it with a career in Law Enforcement. I'll appreciate it this time and do what I'm supposed to. I regret getting out of the Navy without really giving it my all.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2018 11:46 AM

2018-12-31T11:46:48-05:00

I have thought a lot about staying in or getting out during my first enlistment, but only recently has it become a pressing issue for me. I have only 1.5 years before my enlistment is up, and I've decided I'm not staying in Active Duty. Too many people have looked down on and treated me as a child, being and looking very young. I love the military, learning, working, and leading. I was very gung-ho for a while, but I could only take so much patronizing before something snapped. New command being very toxic was pretty much the last nail.

I plan to attempt a transfer from active duty to Air National Guard, hopefully full time. I don't want to leave the military, just want to be treated with a little respect for my experience, and not like an E-2 or E-3 as I put on E-5.

Response by SFC Carl Penrod made Dec 31 at 2018 11:47 AM

2018-12-31T11:47:10-05:00

I was in recruiting at the time...I dreaded going to work and I dreaded coming home. I tried getting out of recruiting and it was to no avail. Getting out was the hardest thing I ever did....the Army was my life. But, I knew that I was miserable where I was, so after 21 years I retired. I haven’t regretted my decision.

Response by SSG Jonathan Sprague made Dec 31 at 2018 12:26 PM

2018-12-31T12:26:37-05:00

I knew I was done, when I kept suffering minor injuries, just for getting out of bed it seemed. Two lingunial hernias at the same time pretty much made up my mind. That and I was getting a bad attitude and didnt want to stay in and it get to the point that I was a negative influence on soldiers. It was time for a change.

Response by Sgt Andrew Pouliot made Dec 31 at 2018 12:50 PM

2018-12-31T12:50:03-05:00

I was a LCpl with 4 years in, just coming back from Afghanistan. I felt invincible. I had all these ribbons on my uniform and getting back to my unit I felt on top of the world. But the unit had completely changed while I was gone, it was mostly new people, especially NCOs and SNCOs. I learndd that even though you have more experience than almost everyone above you, you're still wrong no matter what you do. The breaking point came when all of us were in Service Chucks for a fallen Marine's memorial; the fallen Marine was my best friend that deployed with me. A PFC saw me and asked some questions about the deployment; he was genuinely curious and there was time before the ceremony so I figured it was cool. I was telling him about a time we were taking enemy fire and a Sgt walked up and started listening. He had one ribbon on his blouse (NDSM) and I had heard he was meritoriously promoted and had only been in 3 years. He looked at my rack and said, "Oh you saw combat in Afghanistan?" and I said "Yes Sgt" and he flicked my ribbons and said "where's your Combat Action Ribbon then" and I told him ee never got one because the command in our AO didn't authorize them. He started calling me a liar, saying I lidd about my experiences and I started fuming, especially when nobody stood up for me. I decided right then that I was done with the Marine Corps. A few months later after putting up with all the disrespect and feeling like mobody cared and that I didn't belong, I opted for an early release to the IRR. I spent 8 months in the IRR before a Prior Service Recruiter called, and I missed it so much that I went back, but this time to a new unit, and it's been great. That was 3.5 years ago, I'm glad I came back. I think if you're in such a garbage unit with garbage leadership and horrible peers then it ruins the whole experience.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Dec 31 at 2018 12:54 PM

2018-12-31T12:54:12-05:00

When After I deployed to Desert Storm, I was only 19 and said, I made through this I can make it another 19 years and I did. with 4 combats tours.

Response by SGT Ken R made Dec 31 at 2018 2:59 PM

2018-12-31T14:59:23-05:00

I was raking leaves out in my yard at 0230 hours after finishing up a 105 hour workweek. SFC Cunningham said he would "ruin my career" if my quarters did not pass inspection in the morning. I stopped, dropped the rake, and went to bed. Told the commander and platoon sgt that I was done and they could holler all they wanted. Commander was actually really cool about it. I only had six months left and I was not going to reenlist. I only had seven years left to retire and it was not worth it.

Response by SFC Ramon Rivera made Dec 31 at 2018 5:56 PM

2018-12-31T17:56:34-05:00

There is life after the military service, that all I can say

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2018 8:15 PM

2018-12-31T20:15:58-05:00

I did my three years at Wainwright, I loved the people I worked with but the leadership I was under was terrible pretty much my entire time there, untill my last year when we got a new PSG. Unfortunately even with the example SFC P showed I couldn't escape the feeling of dread that accompanied me everytime I woke up and put on my pts. When the 200ft walk from the barracks to the company felt like a five mile run, I knew I was done. I still miss the people but I'm much happier nowadays so I feel like I made the right decision.

Response by 1SG Steven Malkowski made Dec 31 at 2018 9:48 PM

2018-12-31T21:48:38-05:00

I knew when computers replaced stubby pencils, plungers replaced compasses and soldiers couldn't make it to morning formation because of heavy flow.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2018 10:12 PM

2018-12-31T22:12:12-05:00

The day I couldn't look forward to getting up and going to work, that's when I knew it was time to leave.

Response by SGT Jade Pacheco made Dec 31 at 2018 11:37 PM

2018-12-31T23:37:42-05:00

I struggled to my reason to stay in more worth my reason to get out. But I’m the end ( if I’m being sincere), I decided it was not worth missing out on so much back home.

Response by MSgt Keith Houin (retired) made Jan 1 at 2019 12:02 AM

2019-01-01T00:02:06-05:00

I was the guy battling the Pentagon peeps on who would deploy for certain missions. They always wanted the same troops regardless of their down time. I just lost confidence in our leadership.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2019 1:16 AM

2019-01-01T01:16:43-05:00

Well for me, it's very simple. There are people and things that are simply never going to change; and that leaves an ultimatum: conform with it or walk away. I've tried, I've fought, I've given it all the chances I can but come next year, I'm gone for good.

Response by SSG Jamar Davis made Jan 1 at 2019 8:20 AM

2019-01-01T08:20:27-05:00

I enjoyed serving but knew it was time when I was in a PSG meeting at 0545 getting chewed out with all the other PSG for something I had no clue about I was just coming of of leave going to meetings watching the ass kissing and politics

Response by PO1 Daniel Brock made Jan 1 at 2019 8:52 AM

2019-01-01T08:52:08-05:00

For me, it wasn't my decision really. High Year Tenure got me and I had to leave kicking and screaming.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Jan 1 at 2019 9:37 AM

2019-01-01T09:37:55-05:00

I decided to retire when I came to a point where I felt there was little more to accomplish. I felt ready for a transition to a civilian career. But I didn't submit my paperwork till I had something lined up. I miss the military but I don't regret my decision. As a Chaplain, my "career verse" was Revelation 3:8, "I have set before you an open door which no one can shut." I prayed and trusted God to give me wisdom to make a good decision.

Response by SSG John Lambert made Jan 1 at 2019 9:55 AM

2019-01-01T09:55:17-05:00

Good God people you act like retiring is like the death of a child. You know why you struggle when you get out? Because your entire definition of yourself is as a Soldier. You will be a son, husband, father, a friend a lot longer. In the grand scope of your life the military is just a small part, a very important part, but a small part.
For those of you that stayed longer for more retirement pay, great younger Soldiers now had their career stall because you didn’t want to leave for financial gains.
Those of you who can’t get over wearing the uniform anymore. Get over yourself, if it means that much just be buried in it.
Those of you complaining about how you don’t like civilians. Too bad, you joined their workforce they didn’t join yours. You were expected to adapt to the military when you joined so you have to adapt to a new job.
When did I retire? When my body wouldn’t let me lead the way I wanted to. Could I have moved to staff jobs? Sure, would I have enjoyed it, no. I could not physically give my Soldiers 100% so I retired. And the truth is in almost 7 years of retirement I’ve never once woke up and thought about “wish I was still in” or even missed it. It was a part of my life, just a part.

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Jan 1 at 2019 9:58 AM

2019-01-01T09:58:11-05:00

The years were hard on my body. I had done my duty and couldn't see staying another 12 years. Looking back, it was the right decision.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2019 10:53 AM

2019-01-01T10:53:58-05:00

I’m a CW4 and my MRD is coming up soon. I’ve already put in for an extension but since I’m non deplorable, I’m not sure they’ll keep me (been deployed 3 times now). Hoping I can stay 2 more years anyway.

Response by MSG Scott McBride made Jan 1 at 2019 3:23 PM

2019-01-01T15:23:58-05:00

When i stopped having fun it was time to retire. I have no regrets. Very few things I miss. I had a great a career with great leaders and subordinates. The grass is nice on this side. You will know. Its easy to be nervous and indecisive about leaving the uniform in the closet, but you can continue to serve and mentor. I do. Good luck.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2019 7:15 PM

2019-01-01T19:15:43-05:00

I originally did 6 years active Army. I knew it was time to get out when a CSM punished a SPC. For not wanting to go to the board or get promoted. The Spc already planned to get out but didn't need to get an article 15 for simply answering every question calmly with " I dont know the answer to that question at this time".

This was in Korea and being a Sgt. Sucked balls due to all the extra bs our battalion made us do. I had 34 soldiers in my squad it was terrible. All 4 of my specialists didn't want a promotion because of all the extra work they stacked on NCOs.

Fast forward I got out, got my college degree in auto tech and worked at a Ford dealer for a few years. Now I'm in the Michigan Guard and love it.

Response by SSG Kyle Stromgren made Jan 1 at 2019 11:32 PM

2019-01-01T23:32:50-05:00

Easy RCP plus good transition job

Response by MSG Dorsel Boyer made Jan 2 at 2019 8:29 AM

2019-01-02T08:29:51-05:00

This is a tough decision that I am struggling with right now. After 19 years I feel like I may have asked enough from my family, but I have unfinished career goals and I love the Army, and fear leaving for civilian life.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2019 12:39 PM

2019-01-02T12:39:10-05:00

Not retirement related but lost the strive to get up and go to work! Coming from honor guard to regular infantry and relizing E5-E1 your just another number on top of a Bad CoC. Plus I’m 24 with a kid it’s time to Be done and start my degree while I’m still young and half way happy.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Jan 2 at 2019 5:07 PM

2019-01-02T17:07:44-05:00

It was a struggle both with the Army and being a police officer still not sure how to handle it

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jan 2 at 2019 5:18 PM

2019-01-02T17:18:21-05:00

I guess I was lucky or unlucky that I had 20 years for retirement and was medically chaptered. It was a horrible era in my life.

Response by Lt Col Stephen Wood made Jan 2 at 2019 5:58 PM

2019-01-02T17:58:05-05:00

I was enjoying what I was doing; kept asking: "are you still loving what you do?" And then my wife would ask that too. We did that a lot and always the answer was: I still love what I do. Then one day a registered letter arrived: "on 1 July 2011, you will be moved to the retired list, USAFR." That decided for me; after 32 years in uniform, I was being told I had to go. Easy decision then.

Response by SFC Bill Kurtz made Jan 2 at 2019 6:14 PM

2019-01-02T18:14:17-05:00

Wife is disabled so the decision was easy. The powers that be were divided between keeping a skilled NCO, and having a deplorable asset. I took the money and ran.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2019 8:52 PM

2019-01-02T20:52:25-05:00

My first contract was going to be my last. I hated Fort Hood. I got stoplossed to go to Iraq, and Iraqis weren't even the ones that did 9/11. Then my wife blew all my money while I was there, and I reenlisted for the bonus while I was still deployed. Lawyered up when I got home.

That was 2004. The rest is history. I met a better woman, started getting promoted and getting better jobs, and decided to work on retirement. If I don't get promoted again and do 23, I'll be done in four years. We'll see what the future holds.

Response by SFC Richard Bennett made Jan 3 at 2019 3:38 AM

2019-01-03T03:38:58-05:00

I did a compromise, went into the Army Resere.

Response by SFC Tim Mosher made Jan 3 at 2019 9:57 AM

2019-01-03T09:57:14-05:00

Folks, I knew when it was time to go. The common thread of questioning was this "What are you going to do? "
I looked at it like this, I was an outstanding Sr NCO, I will be an outstanding civilian ar whatever I do, and I will excel at it. I will carry my standard of excellence wherever I go, and I will succeed wherever I go.
That was 20 years ago.
I now work as a Railroad supervisor, I'm very well paid, well respected, and content.
Life goes on after the military, so will you. Millions of people have gotten out successfully, you can too.

Response by CW4 Angela Birt made Jan 3 at 2019 1:43 PM

2019-01-03T13:43:29-05:00

I was a CID Special Agent and CW3. I worked a double homicide for 18 months and at the courts martial, the panel convicted the main bad guy and then let him off with reduction in grade from E4 to E3. No fine, no kick, just a pat on the head and on about his merry way. I wondered what we did wrong, the military judge told me "nothing Chief. You made your case. They just don't care." It was a real low point for me to know that our peers wouldn't take action against someone who made our Army look so terrible, who could do something so horrific to a restrained man. I teetered on the edge of getting out, but stayed another tour - went to Iraq and was glad I did. My guys did good work there and all came home safe. I was glad I did not leave the Army when my opinion of it was low and based on one bad experience. But getting all my guys home safe and acquitting ourselves with honor and integrity really made a big difference for me. I did retire about two years later, but only because my Brigade Commander would not let me go back to Iraq.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2019 6:44 AM

2019-01-04T06:44:41-05:00

I knew it was time for me to retire when I told one of my soldiers to go fix the CG’s computer and he said “Why”.

Response by Sgt Bill Coffee made Jan 30 at 2019 8:04 AM

2019-01-30T08:04:45-05:00

I returned from VietNam in June 1970. I was made an offer to re-enlist in August. Promotion to E-6, choice of duty stations, any Navy school I wanted to attend and $10,000. My only question was how long the duty station would be guaranteed. When he said 6 months that made the decision easy. I was not going back to that hell hole.

Response by MAJ David Kline made Jan 30 at 2019 6:05 PM

2019-01-30T18:05:58-05:00

In my 10th year of service I was the S6 of an Apache Squadron in Korea in 2003. The Squadron XO I worked for was, by far, the worst leader I've ever encountered. As a captain I was the senior officer among the staff (save the S3) and absorbed a lot of HEAT rounds intended for the S1, S2, and S4 (all 2nd and 1st Lieutenants). I would have loved my year in Korea had it not been for this XO. I sought advice from my mentor (my dad, retired officer of 21 years) and told him I was considering getting out because of this guy. His reply to me was "You can suck up your year with him and move on to your next assignment and retire at 20, or you can get out and spend 15 years working as a civilian for someone like your current boss". Result: I retired after 22 years and don't have to worry about people like my former XO EVER again.

Response by SPC Anna Larson made Jan 31 at 2019 9:59 AM

2019-01-31T09:59:40-05:00

I had applied to Veterinary School near the end of my first term of enlistment and managed to get on the "waiting List." Being on the waiting list is better than a flat out denial of attendance, but not quite as good as being accepted. I had to make a choice between staying in and losing out on a slot at Vet School if it became available or getting out and having an opportunity to go. I didn't reenlist because my goal all along had been to use my experiences in the military as a veterinary technician as part of my resume to get into vet school.

Response by Brig Gen Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2019 2:39 PM

2019-01-31T14:39:25-05:00

i was active duty Air Force for 7-8 years. In the last 6 months of that I suddenly realized I had had a string of good, supportive commanders; because I finally came across a crappy one. I realized after 3 months of this I was dreading going to work every day. My bride (who REALLY wanted to sign on for another 4 years for a tour in Germany; we were stationed in Japan at the time) and I discussed and came to the decision to get out of the service. The other factor was that at the end of the 4 years in Germany my Daughter would have been right in the middle of High School. (I asked her about this a few years ago and she stated she was very thankful that she was able to stay in 1 school for all of her High School years.)
On transitioning out the Air National Guard recruited me and I got to keep doing the Flight Medicine that I love . . and I'm still doing it 25 years later since joining the Guard. No break in service, even!

Response by Brig Gen Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2019 2:42 PM

2019-01-31T14:42:33-05:00

I was Active Duty Air Force for 7-8 years. In my last 6 months I came to realize I had had a string of really good commanders, because I finally had a crappy one. After 3 months of that I realized I was dreading going to work every day We eventually got out but went right into the ANG where I got to continue the great work of being a Flight Surgeon. I now realize that crappy commanders can only last 3 years or so, because one of us is going to PCS before that is up anyway.

Response by Maj George Kendley made Jan 31 at 2019 2:58 PM

2019-01-31T14:58:24-05:00

When I was a Sgt and SSgt, I had made a commitment to myself that if I was not able to become a Marine Officer by the 10-year longevity mark, I would get out and finish my undergraduate degree. I felt that even with much more to learn re leadership, I had already learned how to be a good leader by focusing on NOT doing what the less-than-optimal leaders around me were doing; to include some of those I answered to... I was selected for the WO Program in my sixth year as a SSgt and did not look back as I tried very hard to give back to the Corps more than I was getting from it. Eighteen years later, as a permanent LDO Major, and after previously being selected as the first CWO-4 in my Occ Field, I competed in the LtCol selection Board. I had worked VERY hard to be the most competitive at that event; I had finished both my BS and MBA, ALL of the extension courses needed for a Marine Field Grade Officer (an LDO was not going to be funded to attend the course in lieu of a regular officer...), the desired balance of Station and FMF tours, consistently First Class on the PFT for eighteen-plus years, and was then serving in a Joint Service billet because of my technical MOS. One of the three LtCols authorized for our Occ field sat on the board and gave me feedback. He agreed that I was, by far, the more competitive applicant than the one Major senior to me vying for the one promotion slot. The President of the board did not even disagree. But it came down to "longevity." I was NOT selected for promotion, even though I had worked harder and was more competitive than the other Major only because he had more time in grade and time in service . At that point, I realized it was time to retire, and again, I have not looked back. At the point where the military hierarchy focuses on longevity as the main criteria over knowledge, skill, abilities, education and experience then it stops becoming a meritocracy; it's merely a good 'ol boy's club. My opinion only, as I had been selected and promoted a number of times prior to that over less-qualified Marine Officers. That was twenty-one-plus years ago and I have found during the ensuing years that the civilian /corporate world is more of a meritocracy in that respect than the military. If you have what they are looking for, you will be put to work applying your knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience, or, you should go somewhere else... I miss the Corps every day of my life, and I am the person I am BECAUSE of the Corps, but there will come a time in everyone's life when they have to let go for the welfare of both them and their family.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2019 5:03 PM

2019-01-31T17:03:08-05:00

When we came back from Bosnia, I was cooked. I was in the secondary zone for E-7 but after 2 trips to the mid east and one in Herz I was really considering just getting out. I re-upped for an AGR job in the reserves for a few years. I hated it. The hours were good and the pay was better, but all I could think about was getting back into the field with "Joe's". When a bunch of knuckleheads decided they were gonna park some 747's in the world trade center, that did it. I knocked the dust off of my LPC's and weapon, went back to work with the grunts and never looked back until the day I dropped my retirement packet. I don't regret the break I took, but even active reserve in a LRSD unit made me realize I was a career Airborne Grunt and nothing was going to change it.

Response by A1C Alexa Cosson made Jan 31 at 2019 5:16 PM

2019-01-31T17:16:50-05:00

I got pregnant, and I was offered the choice of getting an abortion, giving up custody when he was born, or honorably discharged. I now have an amazing son, and possession of a DD214. I made the right choice, I'm just sorry I had to choose.

Response by TSgt Dan Decker made Jan 31 at 2019 6:07 PM

2019-01-31T18:07:16-05:00

1968, newly married, bills mounting up, offered a then huge reup bonus. wife pregnant. Only possible decision was to reup. And I kept reenlisting for the next 20 years. Retired from Ellsworth AFB, SD, after 6 years in the deep freeze and returned to Texas.

Response by SSG DJitsu Crowley made Jan 31 at 2019 6:30 PM

2019-01-31T18:30:02-05:00

For me, it was a very hard decision. With that said, after being offered the chance to be a drill instructor, for me, was the “icing” on the cake. For me there was no greater honor or responsibility. To be able to shape and train future soldiers was all I needed to stay in. After 26 years, I finally had enough and had passed on what I needed to pass on.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Feb 1 at 2019 11:31 AM

2019-02-01T11:31:30-05:00

I had this view of the military that was too romanticized, while that was disappointing, its not why I got out. I had gotten NJP for something that I genuinely did not do and I had too many problems mentally overcoming that, I had too much resentment after.

Response by Cpl Allen Lamica made Feb 1 at 2019 12:57 PM

2019-02-01T12:57:41-05:00

i had just over a year left on a 5 year enlistment in the Corps. (original mos had a min 5 yr, but i changed mos in boot camp at USMC request) I applied for an extension, as there was an I&I station available not far from hometown. They refused to even consider me for the I&I, because " you cant apply if you have more than a year left on your first enlistment" I had 1 yr and 3 days left on a 5 year. as a dumb recruit in boot camp, i didn't know i could have asked to go down to a 4 yr when my mos changed. i left the corps a year and 3 days later, with a 1A reenlistment code. Of course ive regretted leaving ever sense lol! I was just ticked that giving an extra year screwed me out of that I&I station.

Response by Lt Col Mark Avery made Feb 1 at 2019 2:26 PM

2019-02-01T14:26:20-05:00

I was at 19+ years in when an assignment came up in Korea. I'd never been stationed overseas and was not on the command list, but this was a command billet running the comm unit for the entire peninsula. My wife stated flatly she was not going, so it was an accompanied tour I'd be unaccompanied for, not get credit for an unaccompanied tour, and still be there for 3 years. My daughter was going into her senior year in high school, is somewhat of an adventurer, and thought it would be fun to spend her senior year in another culture. At first. I put off telling assignments what I was going to do for a bit, glad I did. Three weeks later, my daughter decided she'd set herself up for a pretty easy senior year and thought it would be better to stay here.
I told the assignments officer I wasn't taking the position. She said, "You have to. You've been there too long and you're moving, plus you're Joint Specialty qualified, so you're going - if not there, then DC or Europe. It's either that or 7-day Opt and you're out." I'd never really decided to make the Air Force a career - came in to fly, didn't, decided to stay until it wasn't fun, kept getting great assignments and making a difference, so kept staying in. If there had been maybe a modicum of politeness in that personnel officer, perhaps I'd have taken the assignment anyway - would have been a great job, no doubt. Treat me like a slave because you have a billet to fill? Up yours, sweetie. If they'd have tagged me for that slot on my way out of the Pentagon to the job I was in at the time they called and when my daughter was just a year from high school (and I was still fully qualified for the position, O-5 select), I'd have been on it in a heartbeat. My response, "Have you bothered to even look at my jacket? I could put in my retirement papers now and there's not a damn thing you can do about it, Captain." (Or something close - Doubtless that last word had some gruffness, could have sounded a bit like "B!TC#" on her end - wasn't, but could have sounded like it.) She left me alone for a while and looked for someone else.
I did finally put in my papers, as did seven others before they found someone eligible for the assignment and not eligible to retire, an O-5 select. (Gee, why didn't I think of that.)
Had I been allowed to stay in place, I doubtless would have been passed over for O-6, but my unit commander had already told me that was the likely outcome whether I took the assignment or not, said that sometimes the promotion system didn't make a lot of sense, had seen other officers she thought were better qualified get passed over when she got selected. I thanked her for her candor.
(Also probably one of the few times I didn't follow up with what I was thinking, that I knew several who were passed over and better qualified, at least for that position. Tongue only bled a little.)
The longer I've been out, the more it seems the Air Force has gone out of its way to remind me just why it was time to retire. Besides it not having been the Service I joined and many promises broken, the politically correct has too often replaced doing what is right. Don't get me wrong - wouldn't have changed a thing about what I did or how I did it, but I'm sure doing the right thing against established procedure was among the many career limiting moves I'd made during my tenure. On the other hand, a few months after that decision, my wife and I resolved our issues, that "easy year" my daughter expected was one of her worst ever and I was able to be there to support her, and the only sting I ever felt was seeing a bumper sticker colonel insignia I knew I'd never have on my own car.
Those of you who stayed to mandatory retirement, you have my undying respect. Thank you for your extended service. Our military needs your wisdom if it's ever going to return to the fundamentals that made it the best in the world to begin with.

Response by SrA Scott Baer made Feb 2 at 2019 10:49 AM

2019-02-02T10:49:01-05:00

From the time I joined up until my 3 yr in, the idea was to retire, but continued games of a small unit proved to be my breaking point, ended up naively thinking if all bases were the same it would just be a matter of time before I ended up with a bad record and possibly booted out. Getting out with a good record seemed the wise move. After getting out, found out one of the girls I knew from the Communications Center received even worse from the same Supervisor(she also got out after 4). What that jackass got away with is incredible in the cover up by Senior NCOs and the commander at the time(new change over Capt was great but damage already done).

To add to my fun and as a parting gift, I injured my back doing what seemed like a simple base detail after out-processing from my unit. Swapping 50 metal beds for 50 wooden. Type of job I wouldn't have flinched at previously but I was put on that detail with a dirtbag being booted for dealing drugs, and he folded his arms and said, "Why should I, I'm getting kicked out anyway". Maybe I should have reported him but wanting to get home so I could pack, I had some choice words for this wonderment to mankind and carried on by myself. Apparently the anger of the situation got to me and injured my back. Thinking it was a simple muscle strain similar to sports in HS, I didn't go to the base docs and carried on. Struggled with incredible pain carrying two suitcases as ex carried son of 11 months, got out at Maguire, never realizing only had to mention at anytime about the injury to have it on record. Didn't want to whine and paid for it ever since. Eventually leading to a blown out disc at final job at age of 31, and social security disability and so much humiliation from not working left for the UK. VA can't help as that was back in 84' and without military proof of injury, not much can be done.

Many years of anger and regret, but never ever regretted serving. That bit of pride will stay with me until the day I get kicked off this mortal plain.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2019 10:04 PM

2019-02-02T22:04:15-05:00

I deployed in 2010 and came back in 2011 and took a company command that would deploy me in January 2012 to January 2013. Came back from deployment and went to career course and got assigned to another unit that was set to deploy in 2014. I had to have dwell waivers for those last two and I had just spent over two years absent from my family. I had a REFRAD packet ready when my wife talked to me and assured me that everything would be ok and that she would take care of the kids once again and would be here when I returned. What kept me from dropping that packet? I love what I do and was concerned that despite that, the OPTEMPO of my career was putting too much on the one thing I love more than the Army, and that’s my marriage and family. But my wife encouraged me to stay the course and assured me everything would be ok and she would keep the home fires burning.

Response by SSG John Eroh made Feb 4 at 2019 2:52 PM

2019-02-04T14:52:23-05:00

In the late 70's it was the peacetime Army with a lot of BS & my knees & shoulders were going bad. The deciding factors for us was the job market at the time & that I was over 10 year mark on the downhill side. I did have a couple of my best jobs in the Army after that but we were ready when I reached 20 years in 86. My knees & shoulders had reduced my PT test to a 2 1/2 mile walk in 36 min. I turned down ANCOES Academy even tho it was where I was stationed because my uniforms were serviceable for normal duty but not for that and I didn't want to put out that much money a year before retirement. Also since my physical condition ruled out a max EER promotion would be slower. To us, it wasn't worth staying beyond 20. I wouldn't give up my time in but it did take a tole on my body. Fortunately, we live near the #1 rated VA hospital where I receive my care.

Response by Capt Peter de KAM made Feb 5 at 2019 3:58 PM

2019-02-05T15:58:32-05:00

I was a Captain O3E coming off a controlled your into what I thought was a great billet... However, CINC Spouse informed me that this was going to be our 12th PCS in 20 years! I took a look at what my net worth was in the civilian sector... There was no question I was coming out far, far ahead retiring versus continuing on. In retrospect, it was a very dumb decision, It took me two plus years to get over the cultural differences between military life and civilian life. It was unpleasant at best. After a bit, I was hired into IBM and found my logical place in society and did quite well because the corporate culture had been influenced by many people with ties to the military... Was it the right decision to retire? It worked out in the long run. 20/20 hindsight says it was a real bear in the short term and should have stayed in until they kicked me out but it worked out eventually.

Response by Sgt Phil Quintana made Feb 13 at 2019 3:06 AM

2019-02-13T03:06:17-05:00

I don't know if this was everr an official program or not but you could be "fast tracked" if you showed any promise. I was sent to the "right schools, the NBC course, advanced Land Nav etc. I was also given the "right" TAD assignments, I was meritoriously promoted to Cpl almost a year to the day of graduating recruit training. I was promoted to Sgt a year later. A Sgt with no Good Conduct Medal or Service Stripe! Since I was doing so well I re-enlisted. The next three years were just as good. When it was time to re-enlist again, command said, "re-enlist and you'll be a SSgt within three months". My wife had decided it was time to go home! I was truly, truly torn. I had a great career going, command figured I'd be a Gunny at the 10 year mark, a 1st Sgt at 15, a and SgtMaj at 20 and SgtMaj of the Marine Corps at 25!? In the end the wife won out. We went home where I spent a satisfying career with the fire department.

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Feb 16 at 2019 9:08 PM

2019-02-16T21:08:07-05:00

In '92, it was SSB vs. VSI; I'd been QMPed Twice, DOD was looking to "Downsize", and with 16 years under my belt I decided to "take the money and run. VSI won the argument and all was well in the land until 9/11. I ended up in "sanctuary" {10 U.S.C. 1176} but, I have to repay DOD the VSI monies I received.

Response by CPT Keith Whitter made Feb 22 at 2019 10:54 PM

2019-02-22T22:54:54-05:00

A very interesting question. It comes down to a personal decision. Is it the right move for you, and if you have a family for them. You have to weigh the plus and minus, the certainty of your military career or your uncertainty in that career. Is there another career waiting for you to step in too. Are you adventurous enough to step out and make your way in the civilian world. It took me several years to figure out. It's not location, it's not money. What it boils down to is your personal integrity. Are you really delivering your best to the military service. Is it what you want and need. Or do you have other goals and aspirations?

Response by LTC David Howard made Feb 25 at 2019 8:50 AM

2019-02-25T08:50:22-05:00

Before I began my active duty I worked for a big NY advertising agency. I was in the lower levels of the firm, that is for sure, but I knew there was potential for making the big bucks and moving up the chain of management. But it didn't take long once I was on active duty to make the decision to stay a bit longer, and a few years later, to decide to stay at least for 20. As a junior officer in a combat service support role I had no illusions that being in the Army made me into John Wayne, and I knew that I was a very small cog in a very large wheel. But it was an important wheel, and I was a part of it. I was doing something for more than the paycheck, and that kept me motivated for all of my 24 years of active service. And once I had a family, continued service was a bit less rewarding with moving every year or two as we did in those days. But there was also the factor that it was reassuring to know that my paycheck was coming every month, no matter what. Knowing that the worst a boss could do to me if we didn't see eye to eye was to reduce or even eliminate my chances for promotion, but short of a courts martial offense I could not be fired, and my family would be taken care of. To some degree, that job security is what kept me in after I already reached the twenty year mark. I retired 29 years ago, and I still think of myself as a soldier, and I still feel committed to the oath I took when I was given my commission.

Response by SPC Gerry Anderson made Feb 28 at 2019 9:34 AM

2019-02-28T09:34:20-05:00

My fiance offered to help cover tuition if I went back to school and get a degree. Thought it would be easier/quicker to go back to the school I'd already gone to for 2 years out of HS. Four years later, I was teaching middle school PE close to where I'd grown up in central VA. This marks my 14th year of teaching/coaching.

Response by CW4 Abdulaziz Bulling made Feb 28 at 2019 1:48 PM

2019-02-28T13:48:09-05:00

During the drawdown after the end of the Vietnam war there was an effort to reclassify people into shortage MOSs. I was an E5 on the E6 list and could not get promoted. They were reclassifying Infantry and MPs into my MOS and having to train them when they got to my unit. I was ready to leave when my Warrant Officer said I should put in my packet. so I did. That was the best move I could have made.

Response by 1SG Brian Adams made Mar 1 at 2019 2:25 AM

2019-03-01T02:25:39-05:00

I was on recruiting duty when I was approaching the 10 year mark. I was a 79R in the Army. As most can attest, recruiting duty in the Army or any branch for that matter is very stressful. I can not tell you how many times I asked myself...do you really want to do this for 10 more years? Why would I want to stay? For me, it always came down to patriotism. I know this sounds corny but it is true. That and the fact that I was making pretty good money, and great benefits.
It is tough on all of us veterans and those that are on active duty to make these sacrifices day in and day out.
Think " Patriotism".. It worked for me..

Response by CPO George Disbrow made Mar 1 at 2019 9:48 PM

2019-03-01T21:48:35-05:00

To a "T" from Jack Reacher - Woke up one morning and the uniform didn't fit ...

Response by PO2 Mario Lofaro made Mar 2 at 2019 10:06 PM

2019-03-02T22:06:48-05:00

I was at my 10 or 12 year mark, and had just come to a point where I was just tired of the B.S., the wife's attitude toward my career, and just overall disappointed with the Navy and its politics (thanks to the Clinton administration). Several shipmates gave me the what-for and told me to stay. But what made me stay my 20, was my dad... Literally, from his death-bed (he had terminal stomach cancer); he said, "Stay and get your pension", I wish I had." Absolute best advice... Thank God, I did stay, and there isn't a day that goes by that I am not thankful for my dad's advice...

Response by 1SG Steven Imerman made Mar 3 at 2019 8:58 AM

2019-03-03T08:58:57-05:00

The retirement. In 22.5 years I had 2 tough assignments. I gutted them out, thinking a) most everything I've been doing has been good, and b) that retirement deal is hard to beat. As for when to pull the plug on the career, I got a bad case of pneumonia in Bosnia and they told me at Brook AH I was done, so I never had to decide that.

Response by SSgt John Gajdos made Mar 3 at 2019 1:06 PM

2019-03-03T13:06:39-05:00

After being in a Red Horse Unit in Thailand in a MOS I liked and did well in I returned to CONUS. I was 6 months away from my first 4 year enlistment that I had to change my MOS and wasn’t able to stay in Red Horse. So I declined the invitation to change and was allowed to leave 6 months early. Turned out to be a good move.

Response by SSgt John Gajdos made Mar 3 at 2019 1:12 PM

2019-03-03T13:12:05-05:00

Had a MOS I liked and did well in. Also spent a year in a Red Horse unit in Thailand and wanted to stay in RH. Return to CONUS and was told I must change MOS. I declined the offer and was allowed a 6 month early out. That was in April 1974.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Mar 3 at 2019 8:40 PM

2019-03-03T20:40:25-05:00

My struggle was in 1977. I had just been divorced from my first wife. I had appiled for a civilian job with Sikorsky Helicopters, Lockheed Martin and Boeing Aircraft companies. All three had turned me down with "we're not hiring at the present time" term. So faced with no expected employment, I made up my mind to re enlist with a chance to PCS to another base of my choice. I got the base, Hurlburt Field in Florida and back to Air Force Special Operations. I never regreted re-uping.

Response by SSG Michael Langley made Mar 4 at 2019 1:47 AM

2019-03-04T01:47:20-05:00

After eight years I had to decide. The positives were I had an interesting career with challenging assignments. I was on the E-7 promotion list at seven years, way down at the bottom, and would be promoted to SFC as soon as I re-upped. I found a career that gave me opportunity and built my skills. The down side was that out of the three years stationed at Ft. Carson, I had been away on worldwide assignments for twenty months with the last six in Honduras. My wife was finishing college, working, and raising our two daughters aged three and five. I contacted my handler at DA to see what was in my future if I re-enlisted. I was scheduled for advanced NCO course at Ft. Bragg then on to a year of peacekeeping in the Sinai. Next an unaccompanied tour to Korea before being assigned to a logistics unit in South Carolina. Basically, my next three years would be away from my family and the South Carolina assignment promised more worldwide TDY. Everybody in my detachment was betting on my staying in. I chose to keep my ten year marriage as my first priority and did not re-up. We struggled financially as I went to college and became a teacher. I celebrate my forty fifth wedding anniversary this year. I don’t regret my choice.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2019 10:12 AM

2019-03-04T10:12:30-05:00

I'm actually going through this right now. I ETS in 2020 and cant make up my mind weather or not I wanna stay in. I weigh out the pros and cons and they always come up even! I love being in but I also hate it. I have met some of the best friends Ive ever had and feel like I'm doing something with a purpose. But on the negative side my one only big issue with the army is the hierarchy. The army was not what I expected. I thought that there would be more of a brotherhood and wanting to better each other but it just feels like highshool with cliques and stuff like that. Certain ranks would be around other similar ranks and if someone way lower came by it was like seniors targeting a freshman. NCOs showing up late all the time and its just a big joke but if some private didn't notice his name tag is crooked its the end of the world. I know its been that way forever with respecting experience and rank yadda yadda, tradition yadda yadda and I get that but it urks me. But I am in the NG so idk if active is different or what. Just sometimes wish military focused more on mission than tradition.

Response by CPO Larry Cox made Mar 4 at 2019 1:06 PM

2019-03-04T13:06:02-05:00

I tried to get out twice for Med school. First time AUG 1990, I got out 8 AUG, went home, School to start AUG 15 or 16, I got recalled for Desert Storm on the 12th. Then I tried again, got accepted to Med school again, and was due to get out in 1993, never made it, force retention, sent to Kosovo!!
At that point I decided to just stay in. Ironically, a couple of years later I broke my legs at BUD/s and was medically retired. I rehab'd back and join the reserve, where I deployed 2 more times, Iraq and Afghanistan. Ended my service, when they kicked me out in 2015, saying I couldn't serve anymore.
Ended up with 12 years active, 18 years in the reserve.

Response by SSG Henry Moore made Mar 4 at 2019 4:19 PM

2019-03-04T16:19:23-05:00

at first it was very shocking,me wifeand kids(3)had orders to alaska, after all the shots ect,orders were cancers ,then i had to go see bn.sgt major .he stated i came down on orders for medical board.now how do you tell your family,you are getting out.my goal was to be sgtmag of the ARMY.nowthis.i told my rep that if i had to get out they would have to give me 50%,that what i would be getting if i stayed.(that is of bsaic pay.it all worked out

Response by PO3 Terry Miller made Mar 4 at 2019 5:56 PM

2019-03-04T17:56:59-05:00

I went on active duty after my junior year in college. On my ship, the Main Propulsion Assistant, a mustang LT(jg), offered to sponsor me for NESEP (Navy Enlisted Scientific Education Program). I seriously considered it but I had not been an engineering major and since it hadn't been in my plans, I declined. If they had offered to let me study history I would have taken him up on it.

Response by LTC Leonard M. Manning, Sr made Mar 5 at 2019 12:30 AM

2019-03-05T00:30:19-05:00

I joined the US Army in 1972 and reenllisted in1974. In 1977 I ahd to make the decision to reenlist again or get out. Don't get me wronf I loved the service and could not think of any other job I would have liked. I chose to ETS from Active Duty, return home and enroll in college as well as signing up for the ROTC program. I finished college and was commissioned a 2LT in the Engineers. I spemt 18.5 years in the National Guard and another 10.5 years in teh Reserves. I retired as a LTC and was not ready to go when my MRD arrived. My time really was a "Labor of Love". I don't regret one second of my service and would not have changed one thing about it. I tried retirement for 3 weeks and didn't like it so I am a contractor working back in Afghanistan.

Response by LT Ken Anderson made Mar 5 at 2019 1:46 PM

2019-03-05T13:46:55-05:00

It was absolutely one of the most difficult decisions I've made in my life. The decision would have life long impacts. I was a top 1% Navy Lieutenant, Flag Aide, EOOW and SWO qual at first at sea tour, early select for SWO Dept Head School. In the early eighties when those seats where highly competitive. Wrote my own Fitness Report signed by a two star. Had all the right tickets punched...and had them punched early. Yet, in the early 1980's, increasing operational tempo in port and at sea as an MPA/Cheng...1200 PSI Cruiser. On my way to a Chief Engineer at sea department head tour....the last test before getting a command. Hard on marriages. By that time had three small girls. Had observed so many marriage failures by my seagoing peers. Excruciating decision. Chose my family over stars. Some I'm sure can do both. Anyway, still got great girls. They are my stars.

Response by SGT Mark Barner made Mar 5 at 2019 3:38 PM

2019-03-05T15:38:00-05:00

I was coming up on six great years and just learned I made the list for E-6. Also, I just got orders to a kick ass unit stateside. However, I had also saved a lot of money to finish my degree. It was a tough call, but getting out and finishing undergrad and grad school turned out to be the best decision of my life.

Response by SGT Robert R. made Mar 5 at 2019 3:38 PM

2019-03-05T15:38:51-05:00

I was an E-5(P). I had a P-2 profile. I was right at a year from re-enlistment. My number finally came up for BNCOC. I was ready to go, but in order to attend BNCOC I would have to re-enlist as you had to have 18 months of enlistment left.

CHAMPUS was being moved to TRICARE. I didn't fully understand what that meant for my family.

There was a pending draw down, and that P-2 was definitely going to keep me from re-enlistment in the future.

I chose to decline BNCOC, found a civilian job, and ETS'd early. 9 years of service honorably served and the chapter written.

I wish I had NOT made that decision, but you can't rewrite that chapter.

Response by SPC Stephen Walsh made Mar 5 at 2019 8:09 PM

2019-03-05T20:09:38-05:00

Made a few mistakes in life. One of the biggest was not re-enlisting back in 67. Offered Buck Sgt but turned it down. The only reason I can think of was I was be advised by a Captain. I think if I had been able to talk to a Senior NCO who could have explained the differance between EM and NCo I would have stayed in.

Response by MAJ Patrick Hairston CISSP, AWS Certified Cloud Architect made Mar 6 at 2019 10:22 AM

2019-03-06T10:22:18-05:00

I was an E6, stationed at MacDill AFB with Special Operations Command. The tech boom was starting to peak and they were handing anyone who knew how to connect a printer and the 25B MOS to $100K a year jobs. Something didnt seem right to me. Alot of my battle buddies got out and became contractors. I was at the 10 year mark and on the E7 List. An officer told me, "They are going to make an officer that does what you do". I said "Really?" He then shows me the retirement pay of a LTC vs that of an E7/E8. That was enough. I went to OCS and the rest is history. I now make decent money retired with a disability check to go along with it, plus now a contractor's salary. Life is guuuuud!

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Mar 6 at 2019 10:44 AM

2019-03-06T10:44:17-05:00

My first hitch was coming to an end...circa 1976... I was stationed at El Toro. I thought I'd re-enlist and out of nowhere, a 1st Sgt came up to me and said he had a friend who was looking for someone for a civilian job he thought I'd be perfect for. Long story short...I interviewed and got the job and got out one day and started my new job the next. Mistake. I had to go back home to Ill after my father passed and wound up loading box cars by hand at a freight company. A month later I was selling electronics at a Best Buy in Dallas and met a Marine recruiter. We talked about 'what the hell was I doing?"...took my personal info and came back the next day...offered me all my time in grade, a choice of duty stations and new uniform allowance to come back in. I asked "Cherry Point?" He said yes...I said yes...He said go get a haircut....Met him the next day and swore in and left for CP. The decision of when to retire from the Corps is a whole other story...filled with drama, romance, humor and great special effects.

Response by SPC James Dixon made Mar 7 at 2019 8:13 PM

2019-03-07T20:13:13-05:00

Made the decision to get out at the end of this contract. I just lost the enjoyment if it all. I have 10 months left and the last 5 years two months have flown by. But, when it's enough it's enough.

Response by SGT Lloyd Burge made Mar 7 at 2019 11:26 PM

2019-03-07T23:26:48-05:00

When I found out my wife was pregnant she was in her 8th month. I sat down and figured out that in the 8 years we had been married we had seen each other at best 18 months. AFter struggling with it for 4 months I chose to get out.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2019 10:03 AM

2019-03-08T10:03:05-05:00

If you are having a tough time deciding to stay or go, try visiting https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil and take a look at the retirement calculators....you will see what you can earn in retirement and run "What if scenarios" by changing data like retirement dates, ranks, etc. Just login with your CAC or DS Logon to the Official Benefits site of the US Army!

Response by Sgt Don Whiteley made Mar 8 at 2019 12:28 PM

2019-03-08T12:28:02-05:00

I don't mean to berate the USMC or anyone in this group, but only want to provide the reason I chose not to re-enlist. The MOS I was assigned by the Marine Corps required a minimum 120 GCT and 4-10 months of extensive training at premiere schools in Pensacola. I graduated at the top of all my classes and after 10 months, was gung-ho to put that training to use, with re-enlistment not even a question in my mind; it was a given. However, once I arrived at my duty station at Kaneohe Bay MCAS (Now MCB Hawaii) in 1970, it probably took less than a month for me to decide that I wanted out. It was a wonderful location, but the morale in the unit to which I was assigned was horrific. I discovered that we were only productive for about 5% of our time, another 20% of the time we were preparing for and standing a variety of personnel and barracks inspections, and 75% of the time we spent sitting on our backsides and you just can't do that with intelligent, motivated people. Of all the inspections we stood, I can't recall hearing anyone in authority even suggesting that they maintain and inspect our readiness to do the jobs we were trained to do. It didn't take a genius to understand why almost no one under the rank of staff sergeant was re-enlisting.

In retrospect, I hold the officers and senior enlisted leadership in our unit responsible for poor re-enlistment because they were not providing meaningful work, allowing boredom to set in, letting knowledge gained through expensive training erode, destroying feelings of self-worth, and creating an environment that promoted constant grumbling and complaining; all of which became a morale killer. When I got close enough to my separation date, I applied for and received an early-out to attend college and vowed never to lead people as I had been led in that unit. In my later life, I achieved the position of VP of Engineering for a large firm with more than 300 direct and indirect reports, and I always held my management team and myself accountable for providing meaningful work to keep our staff motivated and contributing. Morale has and always will be a key component for staff retention.

Response by SSG Vincent Wilson made Mar 8 at 2019 9:28 PM

2019-03-08T21:28:31-05:00

I loved my job and dreamed of becoming a SGM on day. I went from E-1 to E-5 in 37 months and would have made E-6 soon if I had re-enlisted after 4 years. The problem was we were gone over half the time on deployment. I watched as married soldiers missed key events in their family. Things like the birth of a child, first words/steps, first day of school, and a select few that missed out on the conception of their children. I chose my future family. Been with my wife for 18 years and we have 2 son's. We are very blessed. Downside is having to work with less than motivated people. I really miss being surrounded by driven co workers.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Mar 9 at 2019 6:32 AM

2019-03-09T06:32:26-05:00

Came close to getting out following my first deployment. I returned from Iraq in rough shape ~ had a pulunary (sp?) embolism shortly thereafter, trouble sleeping, name it. Somewhere along the line had a "heart to heart" with the First Shirt and he gave me some advice. Took the advice, got promoted shortly thereafter, and the rest is history. KEY TO THE WHOLE THING: Trust. You gotta trust the person giving you the advice. Without that, the movie doesn't end well.

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Mar 9 at 2019 11:39 PM

2019-03-09T23:39:07-05:00

For me it was getting out. I loved the CG, I loved what I was doing, but I was married to a woman who couldn't, (wouldn't), deal. The straw that broke the camel's back was the transfer of the ship from Portsmouth to St. Pete less than a year after we relocated from Westhampton NY to Portsmouth NH. If it had been just her, I might have called her bluff, but we had two kids by then, so I saw no choice. Regretfully, I got out when my hitch ended. It was the best possible choice for my family, so no regrets in that respect.

Response by SP5 Thomas Jameson made Mar 10 at 2019 9:23 AM

2019-03-10T09:23:40-04:00

Never did I ever..

Response by PO1 David Jordon made Mar 10 at 2019 7:09 PM

2019-03-10T19:09:03-04:00

it really wasn't a struggle. i had gone as far as i could go as an enlisted P.O. so there wasn't any training i could get for re-enlistment, nor could i get orders because i was in a closed loop NEC (MOS to you army guys) i had applied for the LDO(limited duty officer) aviator program. where select enlistees could go for warrant Officer and become pilots. but was shot down because my Skipper didn't believe"enlisted belonged in the pilot seat of any aircraft". so i reviewed my options. and , since i would , most likely, retire an E-6, I opted to get out and ply my trade in the lucrative civilian fields.(i had gone to a trade college and gotten my civilian A&P mechanics license at the ripe old age of 19) and, at 33 years of age, still had time to have a decent career.
i remember the last flight i took with the skipper as our HAC.he called me up to the cockpit, let the copilot get up and go stretch his legs. we were about 20 miles out to sea at 3000 feet. he let me sit at the copilot's seat and gave me about an hour of stick time. he then told me he had gotten some disturbing message traffic about me from the wing.(HELTACWINGONE) said the message was titled "expected loss". he asked me if i was getting better orders? i told him no, that i was getting out. he asked me what i expected to do when i got out, i told him "the same thing a lot of the pilots do in the Navy, go to work for the airlines." he told me i would have a hard time getting a job at the airlines because i would have to go back to school for about a year and a half and pass federal exams to get an A&P.that's when i looked at him and said. "sir, may i speak freely?" he said to go ahead. so i told him,"sir, you just re-enforced my decision to get out. i was in this squadron when it stood up. and you were the maintenance officer. i saw you get XO then CO, and i had you shoot down my request for LDO aviator , in all this time, you haven't even bothered to review my records. because , if you had, you would have known i went to that school and received my A&P mechanics at the age of 19. worked in the field some, then enlisted in the Navy at the age of 23.so, i had every opportunity to stay in the field and become a senior mechanic at any airline. but, i wanted to serve my country, and see a little of the world in the process. i could have enlisted in the Air Force, Marines, or Army. but i chose the Navy because, 1) they have some of the most advanced technical schools in the country. and 2), i was a fifth generation sailor.and our family tradition was something of pride in our family. but, i got locked into a closed loop NEC, and cannot get away from it, and the way the Navy is rating senior enlisted, i would do good to receive a chief's(e-7) retirement. so, the only way i am going to better my career is to get out and go BACK to that civilian career."
with only one sentence from the Skipper , for me to return to my post. that was the last conversation i ever had with the Skipper, until he signed my separation papers.and that was when i left the Navy.
i didn't regret my decision. and still don't, don't hold any ill feelings towards the Navy. it was just the way it was. i did my time, got some good education and working knowledge of modern materials and systems.and saw some of the world, in the process.and i closed that door and opened another one.i sit , now, disabled, and waiting to retire. and just got a nice place in the country away from the rat race. where i and my wife will spend the rest of our days . and i know there are plenty of people out there who will have a better retirement than i will. but , at least, mine won't be threatened to be taken away by some political group who gets voted in by idiots.or done away with by spoiled rotten "me first" baby boomers.so, i'm very much okay with my decisions.

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Mar 10 at 2019 10:49 PM

2019-03-10T22:49:04-04:00

I grew up in the Army, going in at 18 and getting out at 29. I had three tough assignments (Korea, Drill Sergeant, Germany) but nothing like our soldiers today. About two years into my Germany tour, I began talking with two fellow officers about getting out. It was a tough decision: leaving from Germany; my Dad telling me how tough things were in 1983’s job market, loving the life but looking for greener grass. I’ve thought through my decision many times and have no regrets. We wouldn’t have children (the Army didn’t do the surgery my wife needed) and may have lost my marriage - both of those are more important factors than staying another 11 to retire.

Response by Lt Col Bill Fletcher made Mar 11 at 2019 10:16 AM

2019-03-11T10:16:17-04:00

I was flying and had applied for a special school. I was considered a peer group leader especially in the cockpit. I wasn’t accepted but they took one of my former students who had much less experience and at that time, skill level than I. I immediately contacted the closest law school took the afternoon off and drove down to apply for the LSAT. Ultimately got an incredibly high score surprising even myself, got accepted at a quality school. Got a job at the closest Air National Guard Unit that had my Jet and flew my way through law school. Stayed with the unit even after I passed the Bar. Never looked back. Do appreciate the retired pay check and Tricare even if I had to reach 60 to get them.

Response by SPC Wanda Vergara-Yates made Mar 12 at 2019 12:44 PM

2019-03-12T12:44:49-04:00

I was a single parent soldier in the 90's. It became harder to justify dragging my children across the globe to rebuild the support system for them every transfer. I decided to leave active duty and hoped to stay in the reserves so that, if I did deploy, at least my children could stay in one place and grow some roots. As it happened, an injury that killed my pushups, sit ups and run made the decision for me because I refused to be a profile platoon kind of gal. I made it 8 years active (six as a single parent), 1 year active reserve, and a few months IRR time. If I could have found a civilian counterpart job doing the same thing I did in uniform, I'd have jumped at it. Sadly, that didn't happen either.

Response by SPC Ron Salsbury made Mar 17 at 2019 5:48 AM

2019-03-17T05:48:07-04:00

I had intended to get out until stop loss was applied before Desert Storm, after the war I had reconsidered my position; stay in my field, change aircraft to get promoted since Huey's are being phased out, WOC for flight school, Ranger's since I was not an E-5 for Special forces, or the Green to Gold program which is what I wanted most. After getting back state side I asked for the 3 month extension to review these options since I was on the second furlough rotation to go home, which I used to visit my first educational facility were I began school, and three other universities were I wished to further my degree. Upon coming back, lacking the remaining 6 credit hours to qualify for Green to Gold, and seeing issues with new policies of post war reduction strategies, I decided to go back to school. I completed my original Degree, two Bachelorate Degree's and a Masters Degree; the only regret I have, is the loss of camaraderie I shared with many of the countries finest people I ever had the pleasure to know and work with.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Mar 18 at 2019 2:36 AM

2019-03-18T02:36:37-04:00

Towards the end of my first and only enlistment. I wanted to make this a career but at the same my guts and digestive system were killing me. I opted to ETS, get fixed up in the private sector and then reenlist. Instead, I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease, told my colon was about to explode and that this was chronic. I knew I was medically disqualified from reenlisting. I was forced to leave Lance Missile behind and an idea of retraining as Armored Cavalry. Instead I cashed in my GI benefits and graduated in three years with a Bachelor's in Accounting, a Master's in Business Administration and became a CPA.

Response by PO1 Mike Wallace made Mar 18 at 2019 1:35 PM

2019-03-18T13:35:07-04:00

I was about to go on my 6th deployment in 12 years which included a 3 year recruiting tour. I realized that my kids were not being cared for by their mother as they needed and my absence coupled with her alcohol issues made me realize I didn't have much of a choice. After being out for five months I got back into recruiting at my old station as an active duty reservist which meant no more deployments. During my time out of the service I took the FAA Air Traffic Controllers test and was selected. While my pay went down initially in the long run I knew mmy family would be much better off.
I missed the camaraderie of the service but family always comes first.

Response by SN Herman Lee made Mar 21 at 2019 4:55 PM

2019-03-21T16:55:55-04:00

This was easy, after 3 years of a supervisor bellowing "reenlist or get the fuck out of my navy". I asked for my discharge and simply left the navy as is.

Response by SPC James Cooke made Mar 23 at 2019 2:54 PM

2019-03-23T14:54:51-04:00

When you wonder what life would have been like if you joined at 18 instead of 26. That your 76 ASVAB looked damn good back in 2006 than a sub 50 in 2015. If I joined at 18 years old, I would have just 8 years left till the 20 year mark. Decided to leave the Army after my initial 3.5 year contract and take my GI Bill with me. I could have been in a MOS that I loved for 20+ years (or if I didn't like it, I could change my MOS). It is what it is.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2019 7:42 AM

2019-03-28T07:42:07-04:00

I just got back from Iraq in 2003. Most of my Air National Guard base were sent to the UAE while myself and one other person went to Qatar and then into Iraq and ended up at Baghdad International airport. While we were Air Force, we did conducted checkpoints, convoys and site exploitation for possible WMD sites so we did have out share of danger (but nowhere near what others were facing!). Our base CMSgt was in UAE but caught a flight into Baghdad while we were there but never came to check on us even though he landed 100 feet from our bunker. He spent the day driving around Baghdad taking pictures of himself and then flew back to the UAE without checking in on us. In fairness, one of the pilots who flew in to Baghdad did seek us out and checked in on us. When we got back to the US and our base, we found those who had deployed to the UAE had beat us home by a day. A month or so later we were at a Commanders Call and the Base Commander (who had been stationed in the UAE), several other officers who were in the UAE and the CMSgt were awarded Bronze Stars while we received MSM's. Now, I am not saying that we deserved anything and were appreciative of the MSM's, but for those who stayed in the UAE to receive Bronze Stars awarded by themselves was a morale breaker. I remember after they received their decorations, many in the formation refused to clap and just walked away. I understand that the Bronze Star can be awarded for non-combat service, but the perception that they put in their own decoration packets for Bronze Stars while never leaving their AO, together with the CMSgt not caring enough to check in on his people made me start questioning my service in the military. If it wasn't for Stop-Loss I would have left. However, I eventually decided to stay in as most servicemembers are not like that. I am now a First Sergeant and use the Lessons Learned from my first deployment to ensure I take care of my people.

Response by PO1 Richard Norton made Mar 31 at 2019 3:07 PM

2019-03-31T15:07:53-04:00

That was an easy one, I was stationed overseas at the end of my first enlistment and was planning on getting out. President Reagan cut off unemployment benefits for honorable discharged military members. Since I was planning on using unemployment for a bit when I got home until I found a job, I decided that I would reenlist. I was at the of 6 years a 4 year reenlistment put me at 10 years. No further though involved until I hit 20 years.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2019 2:31 PM

2019-04-05T14:31:11-04:00

In a indirect way, my chain of command made the decision for me. I’m not passing blame because it was not a conflict within the structure. I really wanted to stay, I loved my duties. What helped make my decision was I wanted to progress, I wanted to go to my next school or take on a bigger challenge. Even though by TIG and a overstrength MOS, it was unlikely to get what I needed or that I wanted. I asked my chain of command for help to get a exception to policy, it never made it past the Company Commander and the Battalion Commander/Sergeant Major. If I can’t get that support, it’s time to move on. This was not the end but a big part of my final decision. Two things broke the camels back. I was due for reenlisment. I even requested to go back to Kiwait, no such luck. All I was is current duty station, I’d been there for three years plus a trip to Somalia in 93-94. I only wish the command would have backed me. I did leave with no regrets and tons of great memories.

Response by SSG(P) Brian Kliesen made Apr 7 at 2019 9:26 AM

2019-04-07T09:26:09-04:00

As a Reservist, working a full time job as a federal employee/wildland firefighter for the forest service and with a family (wife and two kids), it became apparent before one drill weekend when my five year old son said 'Daddy's mad, he's getting ready to go do Army'. We weren't training. No one was being recognized for their efforts. No one was going to schools. No one was happy. Nothing was getting done. When I was mobilized and my Mom was having issues with Alzheimers, the Army didn't care. When I was mobilized again and my dad was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer, the Army didn't care. I worked my ass off as an 'Activated Reservist' but was not allowed to take any resident courses or training like everyone else. In my unit, I would try to put together innovative, MOS focused training with outside presenters and it would often be cancelled at the last minute, because the unit had to do some power-point training or command was coming down to do a presentation that was required, was boring and was irrelevant. As a helitack forest firefighter, I would be in the field (last year I had 1,000 hours of overtime) on a fire in New Mexico, California or Colorado and the unit would call bitching about my missing last drill and that I wouldn't be allowed to make up the time. I had serious back issues from a work injury, made worse by my time in the Army, but couldn't get a permanent profile to get treatment. It was just time to go. I tried my best to get my soldiers training, recognition and schools, but it was as if our higher command was happy that we did nothing and all they required was we were 'green' in medpros. My family needed me to be around and the US Army Reserve was not anything like I had hoped it would be.

Response by SFC Kory Schaubhut made Apr 8 at 2019 9:50 AM

2019-04-08T09:50:58-04:00

This happened literally every single time for the first 12 years or so. Each time I tried to get the one dream assignment, re-up option, or selection into special duty status that would convince me to stay in and - somehow - every single time the army gave it to me. Then I was "indef." :P

Response by CW5 Edward "Tate" Jones Jr. made Apr 12 at 2019 11:31 PM

2019-04-12T23:31:13-04:00

Late 60’s as a SP6 nearing the end of my second enlistment as an Intelligence Equipment Maintenance Technician with a very good reputation in my field and in the Army. Was recruited by representatives of Saudi Arabia to become a logistics support executive. A SP6 over 6 years made a bit over $300/month. Saudi Arabia offered me $60k tax free. I struggled mightily but my mind was made up when I was offered a senior position on a team developing the very newest of SIGINT systems. Needless to say I re-enlisted for the job and worked it for 2 years. Subsequently I was selected for Warrant Officer served a total of 33 years and was the Senior Tech in my MOS got over 15 years. I loved the job, ALL my jobs and do not regret my decision.

Response by SFC Don Vance made Apr 15 at 2019 1:07 AM

2019-04-15T01:07:00-04:00

In 1980 I asked my CSM who was retiring with 35 years of active service how to know when it was time to retire. His response "When it ain't fun no more". I remembered that throughout my career and in 1997 I dropped my paperwork one week after I hit 19 years of service. My 11 year old son was beginning to act up, I'd had two surgeries on my wrist in less than a year which resulted in me working outside my MOS, I'd had an 8 year stretch of being deployed or in the field during the holiday season, and I knew if I didn't submit my retirement I would be selected for promotion to MSG. It wasn't fun no more. Best decision I made. I know run my own business and a nonprofit and my son was recently promoted to Major.

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made Apr 20 at 2019 10:15 PM

2019-04-20T22:15:30-04:00

I started my struggle of leaving when I was diagnosed with PTSD. I went through three years of medical testing, psych evals, and then my records apparently got lost. I was on medical hold, non-deployable, and not allowed to go find a civilian job. It took almost six months to find my records, it turns out because I had over 15 years on active duty already the Secretary of the Air Force wanted to see my records. They didn't leave her office for a while. By the time all was said and done I had diagnoses for several disabilities which I had to wait until almost the end of that term to be able to do anything.

The Air Force did hook me up with DAV to help with the VA claim. DAV screwed it up so bad it took 17 years to get everything straightened out. 17 years is longer than I was actually on active duty.

Response by Capt Christopher Provost made Apr 28 at 2019 8:21 AM

2019-04-28T08:21:24-04:00

I had spent 12yrs Enlisted, and got commissioned. FF 8+ years in, and I was doing yet another required computer module. USAF SOS was long overdue for me, and I needed to go to the school vs correspondence.
I took a look at the retirement math; getting promoted vs retiring now (all Guard yrs) with 6 deployments would only net me a nominal pay boost.
The BS meter was pegged, relationships non-existent, and there were more noobies in the unit than familiar faces.

It was time to get out. Do I miss the pay, yes. The BS, no. And I'm dealing with my crap that I hid from that the military doesn't help us with.

Response by MAJ Patrick Hairston CISSP, AWS Certified Cloud Architect made Apr 29 at 2019 6:05 PM

2019-04-29T18:05:03-04:00

I looked at the retirement for an officer vs the retirement for getting out. Case closed.

Response by SPC Steven Nihipali made Apr 30 at 2019 8:16 AM

2019-04-30T08:16:43-04:00

Everyone says to embrace the suck. Military life sucks. Crappy leadership, horrible leaders who think they're Gods gift to soldiers. Females who think they're the best pussy given to man, etc.. drunks, smokers and know it alls really stress people out. You've got computer nerds telling signal guys how to do their job, etc.

I was attached to DIV HHQ,I knew my 2 star really really well. My commander ran the Pentagon. So yeah, I had high command that knew how to run things.

Stop guessing in your decisions, give a directive and go with it. It's up to the NCO's to execute.

Life is the exact same.

Response by SFC Pat Mattson made May 12 at 2019 10:53 AM

2019-05-12T10:53:56-04:00

My epiphany was after I re-enlisted at 10 years for Persido, had my household goods sent there, and had a sponsor that I was communicating with, I was put on orders to Recruiting Command.
After 2 years in USAREC, I was divorced, had a P3 for knee and shoulder, and in a Command that was 29 or 30 out of 30 so every NCO that was not making Box was made to spend more time making there self better salesman’s and to spend more time beating the bush. Needless to say after a few years of 12 hour days and being told we were dirtbags it was time.
The best thing about Recruiting was that I was living away from post and the transition was seem less.

Response by SSG Dennis Butler made May 13 at 2019 12:07 PM

2019-05-13T12:07:14-04:00

After a tour in Vietnam and doing what we were trained to do (11B) i was pcs to fort hood. I considered reuping, but garrison life just didn't work for me. I yelled short louder at hood louder than Vietnam.

Response by SPC Louis Miller made May 22 at 2019 1:04 PM

2019-05-22T13:04:19-04:00

Was a Pershing-II Nuclear Missile Tech and was part of the massive retrograde of all the battalions after the INF Treaty was signed. Nothing was really offered to us. After having notice of my father having failing health, my temporary transition from beloved work on the P-II and its systems turned into total civilian work in law enforcement. I would absolutely have loved if I could have transitioned into something of the same caliber of work but have no regrets in decision making. After ETS, times were indeed tough as this country was in the midst of the beginning time frames of the Clinton Recession Era. Nevertheless, I am one who will ALWAYS remain positive and know that every-single-thing that happens is for a reason and should be utilized as a tool to build upon.

Response by CPO William Rys made May 26 at 2019 4:45 PM

2019-05-26T16:45:17-04:00

I was in for 20 years, and struggled EVERY time I had the opportunity to get out or re-enlist, even the last time at 17 years, I was ready to bail out, join the reserves, and retire later... Each time, my decision was made easier by the economy. When my EAOS got closer, I was always disappointed in the jobs available, as well as the pay, so it was easy to take the huge re-enlistment bonus, choice of orders, and do another 4. At the 20 year mark, I considered staying in for another couple years to boost the check a little. However, my detailer only offered me a ship that was going to be in the Persian Gulf for one year, so I said BYE-BYE...

Response by SSG Michael Doolittle made Jun 8 at 2019 4:44 PM

2019-06-08T16:44:23-04:00

Home from Vietnam, just finished my second tour and 6 years in the Army.... The idea that I was just a body that the Army would trade for 10 VC / NVA bodies, and that the Army would continue to fight a Worthless Conflict... That the Government would continue to send thousands of young men to their graves and or disabled and mentally damaged forever just to keep from admitting it was wrong to have gone on this course.... The same was perpetrated in the Invasion of Iraq, make shit up to justify your wars.... NO WAY would I have made a career of that...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2019 3:17 PM

2019-06-13T15:17:06-04:00

Hello everyone. Related to this question is how do veterans decide to stay with or leave a civilian employer? Does your sense of purpose, values alignment, or social network have an impact on your decision making? I am studying this for my dissertation and if you take this survey or share it I'd greatly appreciate it!

https://drexel.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_40zEJbuQaJoOs6h

Response by Sgt Anthony Leverington made Jun 20 at 2019 11:22 AM

2019-06-20T11:22:44-04:00

Back in 1988 (my 3rd year on active duty and about 6 months before my 1st term was up), a lot of budget cuts were happening so they came around with an offer. All 1st term Airmen had the opportunity to either stay in or get out. At that time, I chose to stay in for several reasons. I was happy with my current situation. I liked my military job and I was also in an off-base volunteer fire department and only 1 month away from getting my 1st Responder certification.

3 months later, they came around again but this time, it was all 1st term Airmen reenlist for 4 more or get out. 3 main factors played a part in my decision to get out at that time. First and foremost, I was planning on getting married and my fiance, was 900 miles away in my home state where she was a cop in the local PD. (2) Reenlistment bonuses had been reduced from your base pay times how many months you had left, to zero. (3) A special code had been attached to my military file that basically meant, even if I reenlisted with a base of preference, I would spend a maximum of one year at that base before being returned to this one.
Even though I chose to leave active duty at that time, I still had 4 years of "Inactive Reserve" to go. Exactly 1 year to the day later, I reported to the Dallas Naval Air Station (closest military base to my home) which basically consisted of an interview to check on my progress of readjusting to civilian life and so on. They also informed me that if something serious enough were to happen that caused my former unit to be deployed, I would be reactivated and deployed with them. Sometime between then and my next scheduled annual check in, Desert Shield happened. I was never reactivated but, I did receive notice that my annual check in had been cancelled because the majority of the people on that base had in fact been deployed and there was nobody there to do the interview.

Despite all that and hind sight being 20/20, I sincerely wish I had chosen to stay in and gone career.

Response by SGT Juan Robledo made Jun 21 at 2019 1:28 PM

2019-06-21T13:28:20-04:00

My plans were to join the US Army and travel the world if that was a possibility, I didn't plan on leaving the military but my injuries I substain while serving were the turning point of my short lived time in the Army, I don't regret serving, my only regret was getting injured and my health was at the top of mind on daily basis, I enjoyed seeing other parts of the US and other countries but I figured that there could be other opportunities that I could do and still be proud of my service

Response by SrA Brett Stratton made Jun 23 at 2019 10:55 PM

2019-06-23T22:55:50-04:00

I spent all my career at Holloman. I loved Alamogordo and I loved being an Airman, but I hated my specific job. Compared to the rest of the military, it was like the Wild West where anything goes. My decision was made for me:
During a revamped session of the PT tests, I was drummed out because my pushup arms were either too low or not low enough. I was fine everywhere else. By no means did I ever score 100 (I averaged around the late 70s early 80s), but I knew that I wasn't physically unfit. The decision was made for me. I found 6 months later after my discharge they changed it again when they realized over half the base was being let go for it too. Too late for me, though. According to my papers, I can't re-enlist.
I'm by no means bitter, though. I was sad for a while and gained over 100 lbs from depression, but I let it go. I'll always remember the good times. I fell in love with the town and know I can always go civilian contractor if I ever want to work on base again.

Response by MAJ Lee Goehl made Jun 24 at 2019 7:42 AM

2019-06-24T07:42:21-04:00

I started my career as enlisted worjed my way up to SSG and was talked into going to OCS. Shortly after I was promoted to MAJ was critically injured in the line of duty. while on leave at home was offered a position in Illinois with the VA. Went back to Hood put in my RET papers and then spent the next 22 years helping guys like us. Never regreted it.

Response by Cpl David Rowland made Jun 24 at 2019 12:44 PM

2019-06-24T12:44:59-04:00

I was offered a $10,000 reenlistment bonus and a promotion to Sgt E5, which I was eligible for with time as an E4. The bonus was offered because of my MOS. If I would sign up for 6 more years. In 1965 that was a lot of money.. But I had a great job waiting for me back home. And I was already enrolled in collage. With the job that I was offered, I would make $17,000 a year. So it was a no brainer to me. I chose to go home. Over the years I have questioned my decision, because I was a computer tech on the Hawk Missile system. My promotions would have come on a regulare basis and in 16 years more I could have retired with a great pension. And could have started my new career at 38 with that life long pension

Response by PO1 Kevin Arnold made Jun 24 at 2019 4:54 PM

2019-06-24T16:54:26-04:00

I was forced to retire at 20 years at high year tenure due to not being able to make Chief Petty Officer within the timeframe that I was allowed. I would have continued on if I could have. I am at my full 30 years for 3 years now. Unfortunately I was not able to get any job that was even remotely close to what I did on the Navy. If given a choice I would do it again.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Jun 25 at 2019 12:25 PM

2019-06-25T12:25:24-04:00

Recruiting talent for the civilian sector I have conversations with officers and enlisteds both, who are 'on the fence' concerning whether to reenlist for four more or accept another set of orders locking them in for another 3 or 4 years. "How is the civilian job market?", "Is there really anything to do in "Insert city or state here"?" "If I take these orders I'll be 45 when I start looking for civilian work...is that too late to start a second career?". I put myself in their shoes. I had all the pressures ... I had 22 years in the Corps and was looking at another overseas assignment, two kids who didn't really know grandparents and other relatives other than a Christmas visit or summer vacation every few years, changing schools again, and a wife who'd put off and changed careers 5 or 6 times already. And I know I was lucky in that both wife and kids said 'It's up to you. We'll adjust either way!". To keep this from becoming a book, I'll just say yes...it's a life changing decision. Do your homework. Look at realistic career or job goals. Look at and get advice from people you trust about what happens if you stay in ....what happens if you get out. Am I doing this for the right reasons? Don't let fear of the unknown be the final catalyst. Be prepared to accept the circumstances should a year down the road you feel you made a mistake ...or congratulate yourself on making a great decision. Either way...accept that life is life...we can't control everything that happens, but we can cope and keep moving forward.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 25 at 2019 2:06 PM

2019-06-25T14:06:47-04:00

I struggled with PTSD and thought I could hide it. I became more dysfunctional and the decision was made for me with a MEB.

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made Jun 26 at 2019 6:59 AM

2019-06-26T06:59:42-04:00

I loved the Marine Corps, but I was single when I enlisted. In my second year I met the woman of my dreams, I married this woman. This was at a time when the military was being down sized, I was being given a, 11 months cut on my enlistment. being married I felt torn between the Corps and my marriage. I had made Sargent in less than three years, but I know I was never be able to be a family man while in the Marines, so I decided to get out. Plain and simple, I put family before the Corps. Have not regretted this for a moment. That was 50 years ago.

Response by MSgt Gregory Balint made Jun 26 at 2019 7:54 AM

2019-06-26T07:54:47-04:00

It was 1975 stationed in Washington DC.at Andrew Air Force Base. Decided that going back to college and working would not be best at that time. Applied for USAFR position as a flight line Mechanic. Consider this the best decision for my wife and I. Looking back no regret in our decision as it lead me to a career in Logistics working for DOD US Army Tank Automotive Command.
I was able to continue to a career with the Air Force SS well as developing new skills and civilian career with DoD.

Suggest that current military service members seek out,through their personnel offices, options that encourage similar dual employment opportunities.

Greg Balint (Ret. E-7/GS-14)

Response by TSgt Paul Vanders made Jun 26 at 2019 2:13 PM

2019-06-26T14:13:25-04:00

I left after 20. I loved my job, but had become jaded toward the Air Force. I was in a shop with six individuals of my same rank. Everytime a TDY came up, all the other E-6's had excuses why they couldn't go. For my last 2 years in, I was gone from my family 6 months or more per year. Finally I said enough, it's time for my family to come first. I still miss it, but my family life is so much better now.

Response by SGT Robin Wymer made Jun 26 at 2019 7:58 PM

2019-06-26T19:58:17-04:00

After being placed on a stop loss, I was deployed for 18 months. Upon returning, I asked how many deployments before retirement. Their response: 3. As a single mom, three more deployments were not feasible. It has been 12 years since I discharged from the service and I still miss serving.

Response by SFC Charles Woods made Jun 26 at 2019 9:35 PM

2019-06-26T21:35:51-04:00

In 1971 I was in Vietnam,my wife was in Florida.Wife got sick,I was granted emergency leave to see her.Moved her to Pennslyvania so she couldbe near her sister.I applied for compassionate reassignment,anywhere in conus.Meantime I was assigned to a mickey mouse Army unit.After waiting for nearly a month we were finally sent to see a doctor,the mickey mouse unit OPS SGT contacted the DR.and my request was denied.I was given five days to report to Oakland Army Terminal to be refurned to my unit in RVN.I was in contact with the unit they were being sent back to conus. Sick wife my unit in RVN being sent home and the AXXhloe wanted me to go back.Canada sure looked about then.I finally decided to go back to RVN but it took from June to september to chase down most of the gear I left in RVN.Never did find all of it but that is another story.

Response by SMSgt Charles Tritt made Jun 26 at 2019 10:46 PM

2019-06-26T22:46:17-04:00

I was fortunate enough to have some prior service Air Force members, return to active duty at past duty stations. The stories they told of the struggles they encountered after leaving the military, and the regret that motivated them to return to active duty, made it clear the military was a rewarding experience that far exceeded the challenges and hardships. Now that I’ve retired, it’s clear civilian life does not compare to the camaraderie and sense of purpose the military provides.

Response by A1C Ray Ortiz made Jun 26 at 2019 11:41 PM

2019-06-26T23:41:52-04:00

Became a conscientious objector after 2nd Vietnam tour and 6 years of active duty. I'm now 70, married 46 yrs., 7 kids 13 grandkids and 100% disabled rating. My dad was a 25 yr. lifer, alcoholic, died of cancer at 62. My decision was based on real life experiences that molded my thinking and actions.

Response by Sgt Mike Barylski made Jun 27 at 2019 8:38 AM

2019-06-27T08:38:02-04:00

Getting out of the Marine Corps was/is one of the very few life decisions I have often questioned. Especially when that 20 year anniversary mark passed. At the time (2000), I was finished a second enlistment and was just shy of 8 years. I spoke with many friends, fellow Marines, family, and people I respected and trusted. It was one of those "glass half full/glass half empty" moments. This was the time to leave, because, in my mind, once I went over 10 years, I was staying for the long haul. That wasn't the only reason. I had injured my back twice (muscular) and had concerns about my future health. There was also the burn out from the politics. On the other hand, I loved being a Marine. I was good at my job. I even had my CO and the CG, 3d MAW wanting to keep me in. It wasn't an easy decision at all. In the end, I chose future health and a clean, new occupational direction. I will always cherish my time served and value the man I've become because of it. Semper Fi!

Response by SSG Jeff Goldsberry made Jun 27 at 2019 9:40 AM

2019-06-27T09:40:12-04:00

I got out of the USAR as a SSG, promotable to SFC, after nine years in 1996. When I got in the USAR I went to Basic Training at Fort Benning. After the first part of Basic I went to OCS in Fort Benning, was turned back due to my finding out some things about my TAC officer. Due to other circumstances I wasn't able to start over with the next class. So I was sent back to AIT for my 11B classification. I am proud to have that classification on my records. But my not being able to turn back cost me my spots in the next Jump School class and Ranger School. At my USAR unit I was cross trained and was classified as a 13B and also attended Drill Sgt. School where I received my "X" identifier as a Drill Sgt. I was a proud member of my USAR unit as we were one of the top units when graded for Unit Readiness. When I was about to ETS out my USAR commander tried to talk me into staying. I said Jump School and Ranger School is what it would take for me to stay. He said he couldn't do that, so I got out. I've regretted that decision ever since. I am however, very proud to have served in the USAR, and my country. Hooooah!

Response by CPL Jack Paul made Jun 27 at 2019 9:46 AM

2019-06-27T09:46:10-04:00

I was drafted soon after college graduation and had learned from Canadian Jesuits about Nam -- China, then Japan, then France and now us - and all they wanted was independence to be their own country. After being "volunteered" for Ft Benning's instant sgt school I applied for a CO discharge. I have a great attorney near Stanford that wanted to push the rule that COs had to have a religious reason rather that a personal moral code. I was assigned to the treasury office at Ft. Ord Hospital and found out I could help others do the same when admitting them -- sole surviving son, not a USA citizen, etc. Once I got under 6 months I told my attorney that I'd finish my service because I had helped at least 5 kids begin the CO or other process as there was lots of help in the Monterey area. I did have a major who swore he'd perosnally put me on a plane to Nam but we got him busted for tying a CO applicant to a chair for almost 2 days and contacted his dad (who sold parts for the AR15!) and his pal who wrote for Life magazine. They flew up from LA, took pics, got the commanding general over and had the major's ass chewed out with photos! ALSO got it reported in Life mag. That war was a waste of time and took over 58,000 young men and women.

Response by SPC James Plaisance made Jun 27 at 2019 11:59 AM

2019-06-27T11:59:26-04:00

When I held an E5 slot for two years and watched a company clerk come in as a buck private and make E5 in only 15 months. I was in charge of the motor pool which was a buck Sargent slot at the minimum.

Response by SPC Deborah Root-White made Jun 27 at 2019 2:48 PM

2019-06-27T14:48:22-04:00

I was in a reserve unit in Colorado. It was a Combat Engineer Bn, and at that time women could only be attached to Hqtrs. But the guys in outlying units would be allowed to accept openings at our unit. I was tired of arguing that never ending war of words at that time about how women just weren’t capable to serve in a combat position. I wanted a fair explanation on why we were being trained to be prepared for combat if we could never use that training and no one could give me a real answer. I was an E4 in an E7 position as training NCO and I could give more reasons to allow us than anyone could to ban us. I finally had enough and requested to be transferred immediately to the IRR.
I am so very proud of the women today who have proved my point from so long ago!

Response by SGT Kirt Medve made Jun 28 at 2019 10:03 AM

2019-06-28T10:03:13-04:00

Immediately after my reenlistment I fought tooth and nail to get out.
I was stationed in Korea reenlisted from 12b to uav operator. My retention nco took leave before actually booking my class, or even completing my reinlistment paperwork.
I was stuck in korea "in the army" with no pay, no orders, no pcs date, and no school. It took 3 months and multiple visits to jag to get paid. I was told I could not get out because I would be paid eventually.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 28 at 2019 12:51 PM

2019-06-28T12:51:54-04:00

Sometimes the decision is made by others. I have been introspective and decided the army was better if I retired.

Response by SFC William "Bill" Moore made Jun 28 at 2019 4:14 PM

2019-06-28T16:14:11-04:00

When I was informed I was too busted up for deployment. Couldn't wear a bomb suit anymore, time to go.

Response by CWO4 Jim Doran made Jun 29 at 2019 11:36 AM

2019-06-29T11:36:48-04:00

I was 21, married, with a baby - a HS drop out whose military profession was airborne munitions and whose civilian profession was getting sent to the principal's office. Told my wife I was reenlisting and if I didn't make E-7 before I had 10 years in I'd get out. I had 8 years, 5 months, 2 days when I made WO1 (Temp) and 8 years, 11 months and 18 days when I made E-7 in my permanent grade.

Response by SA Ronald Moss made Jun 29 at 2019 1:53 PM

2019-06-29T13:53:40-04:00

On Oct. 27, 1962 I was injured in a vehicle accident, and broke my hip, it was pinned, but didn't heal properly, and then was fused. At a physical board of evaluation a CG lawyer asked me if I wanted to stay in, or get out, and whichever way he'd work for that decision. I told him, that the military is a job like any other that had good and bad days, mostly good and I wanted to stay in.
He asked me if I wanted to see a psychiatrist, as I was the first one he had as a cliant that wanted to stay in.
I was given temporary retirement, and later made permanant, That ended my desired career in the USCG, so at the age of 20 I was retired on disability.

Response by SPC Mitch Saret made Jun 29 at 2019 4:12 PM

2019-06-29T16:12:50-04:00

I planned on doing 20 years stint, retirement at 38 and still young enough to do a bunch of things. But being an infantry paratrooper got me medicalled out after only four. Had a hard time for several years.

Response by Sgt Don Whiteley made Jun 29 at 2019 10:39 PM

2019-06-29T22:39:12-04:00

I had applied for the Marine's Enlisted Commissioning Program and had the support of all of my officers from the company through the battalion, but then I got hit with a really tough mission during the Easter Offensive in Vietnam and after I got out of that, I had some real second thoughts about whether the Corps was right for me. I cancelled out of ECP, applied for an early out for college, and left active duty behind four months later to get my B.A. A year into my B.A. program, I started getting pretty bored and I didn't fit well with the college crowd of the early 70s, so I had second thoughts again, this time about getting out. I went on to get my M.S. and had a good life, but ever since, I've continued to wonder where life might have taken me if I had gotten my commission and stayed in. I guess along with a good life, I've had some good dreams on those long hikes through the woods as well.

Response by PO1 Brenda Donohoe made Jun 30 at 2019 6:30 AM

2019-06-30T06:30:32-04:00

I am a highly decorated warrior with exemplary EVALS. All 'Retention' marked. I have over 100 credits on my Smart Transcript, Myriad of LOC & LOAs; worked: USS JFK (CV 67), PENTAGON on 9/11, GTMO,, NATO, NCIS, flew for 2 years; Three warfare devices (FMF/NAC/SW) with NEC 9545, GWOT EXP & SERVICE, 5 rows of medals/ribbons. Deployed with I MEF/MAGTAF, USMC (non-Corpsman) into FALLUJAH, Iraq in 2007/8-/; 80/80 PMA for Advancement, but was overlooked (CMC told me to face he pulled my Advancement Package)! Five tours of duty.; Coming home & on my way to Afghastan, CO tried to have me discharged. (?) No justification. Fought that medical up to BUMED/DC and prevailed. CO waited the four months that I had left for reenlistment and disapproved WITHOUT JUSTIFICATION in Chit. Discharged after 17 YEARS with OTH/RE4. BCNR changed finally to HONORABLE but did not change RE4. Privileged to serve... How do I get RE 4 changed and reenlist again? (This is TRUE story)

Response by SSG Randy Jeter made Jun 30 at 2019 12:21 PM

2019-06-30T12:21:21-04:00

I had 15 years in and was due to reenlist. If I reenlisted I would get my station of choice. I reenlisted for Fort Hood. Everyone I new that went to Fort Hood could never get away from there. They would say, Oh man I have been here for five years and can't get away. So the amazing military sent me to Fort Hood for two and a half years then sent me to Germany. I was planning to retire and live in the Fort Hood area. So I learned never plan on the military doing something in your favor.

Response by MSG Brenda Neal made Jun 30 at 2019 2:56 PM

2019-06-30T14:56:15-04:00

I was a 91C30 and a Wardmaster in a hospital setting. My daughter was 4 years old. Most women were leaving home to enter the workforce at that time. I had to make a decision to stay after 10 years in. I missed her first steps and someone else had taught her the ABCs and to read at 3 years old. My choice was my daughter and staying in the reserves. I was there for her and kept pace with the military. I earned MSG and have retirement today. A win - win for me.

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Jul 1 at 2019 6:18 AM

2019-07-01T06:18:04-04:00

Struggle? Not hardly. When I was approaching ETS in 1971, the soldiers who re-up'd wound up going right back to Vietnam within months, sometimes weeks of reenlistment. Once was enough.

Response by LTC Donell Kelly made Jul 1 at 2019 1:14 PM

2019-07-01T13:14:41-04:00

I came home from 2 yrs USAR ANC deployment to Landstuhl. I was a mess, but came up for promotion to O-6. I’d had great OER’s from AD senior raters while deployed, had done CGSC, etc, so getting promoted was a good possibility. I asked for advice from multiple prior AD & USAR fellow nurses. Finally, the advice that clicked was the one who told me “you’d make a great COL, but you’d have to cut off 1/2 your tongue.” Too true, & retirement papers went straight through!

Response by Capt Harlan Carvey made Jul 2 at 2019 10:42 AM

2019-07-02T10:42:00-04:00

During my time as a junior officer, I tried my best to make sure my Marines were taken care of...not just in getting promoted, but overall taken care of. This included visits and/or flowers when their wives were in the hospital for child birth, getting them schools, and providing those who needed it with a Thanksgiving dinner (my Gunny, God bless him, got an awesome deal on turkeys...).

I had major brain surgery while I was stationed at NPS, such that it had to be done at the AF hospital outside Sacramento. While I was in the hospital, I got no calls from any of my fellow Marines, let alone a visit...and that included the ones that I'd gone to college with who were also stationed at NPS. I kept my "chain of command" informed as to my status, but the word was not passed along to the USMC liaison to the school...he called me from the hospital two days after I was released to ask where I was.

My medical issue went misdiagnosed by the DLI medical staff (the DLI clinic was the only facility, as the Ft Ord hospital had been BRAC'd), and the tumor that was removed was a bit bigger than a golf ball. No one was willing to talk to me about any issues related to damage caused by the tumor prior to the surgery, particularly as the DLI medical staff seemed less than interested in actually diagnosing and treating me.

Upon my return to classes, one of the Majors in my curriculum let me know that while I was at NPS, I wasn't _really_ a Marine (his words). The entire school staff, up through the curriculum to the Admiral, just wanted to push me to my next duty station. My curriculum officer (Navy CDR) even apologized at one point for not listening to me.

My record book was sent to the Disability Board, and I knew the Captain in charge. I asked him for one favor...to ensure that my record book was complete. Nothing more. I was livid, having to deal with medical support staff in CA who refused to believe that I'd even had the surgery (scar was still angry and red), because there was no surgeon's dictation in my record book.

I'd worked hard for my Marines. I'd handled issues internally within the platoon whenever possible to ensure that nothing permanent hit a Marine's record book. I'd had illegal page 11 entries removed so that a LCpl was retroactively promoted, with 4 months of back pay. When I was cast aside because those above me wanted to make their tee time, that made the decision for me.

Response by LTC Pete Moore made Jul 11 at 2019 10:13 AM

2019-07-11T10:13:34-04:00

I thought about getting out at each level of my career because I was gone so much. My evaluation was what is best for my family, am I still serving my family and country, and do I feel I am making a unique contribution. As kids get older the Army life gets harder. I stayed for 30 until I became “non deployable”. I was supposed to move to a COCOM Staff, good job would have made next grade but I joined to “fight and win our nations wars” not do endless book reports, the other big reason is my wife and kids said “we want to go home, we don’t want to move anymore”. I still miss it everyday but it’s the soldiers and the missions I miss, NOT the relative rank, not being a pseudo big shot! Like the CSM I was a DAC and a frustrated contractor too, great money but not worth it for me. Bottomline: military retirement gives you options to take jobs because you want them, not just to prevent starvation, that said don’t stay for the retirement but stay if you still love the job in spite of separation and hardships. The Army/service doesn’t need people to stay for any other reason. Make your decision based on you, your family, and your unique circumstances. In my case I’m glad I stayed as long as I did and I’m glad I got out when i did but I still miss it. That said retirement is good but don’t be the guy that just wants to play golf or fish everyday, they’re usually dead in about 5 years. Retirement is not for the faint of heart, you gotta still contribute but you hopefully can do so on your terms. It’s a hard choice, i commend you for taking the time to figure it out!

Response by SPC Joel Lopez made Jul 27 at 2019 12:08 PM

2019-07-27T12:08:53-04:00

I always advised a young person to join the military if they were currently interested or contemplating the idea. I strongly believe it changes your mentality for the better especially those going down the wrong path. I still believe that today. It did for me at the tender age of 17 back in 77'.
Unfortunately for me it didn't end as I had hoped. Back then we busted our rear ends day-in & day-out in motor pools & out in the fields. We even had to do our PT in our boots which made no sense at the time. Nowadays, equipment & methods are more evolved. Instead of pitching large tents & install certain equipment & machinery they have RV's with the same function.
The work reached intolerable, back breaking levels most of us in that particular unit that most looked fwd to separation or transfer. After re-enlisting for a 2nd term, promises were broken and I felt I was being used too much, taking-up a lot of slack and getting along w/ a tyrannical 1st Sgt. I demanded to be discharged unfortunately. I received a gen discharge...booo! I've had a dozen different jobs since. Most in an office environment, no hard labor. Now, I have tinnitus & back issues stemming from that "hard labor camp" at Coscom, Ft. Bragg. Mysteriously, they could not find my medical records from that time period.....hmmm. Well, trying to plug-away, gather evidence for a claim under appeal. It's an uphill battle.

Response by Capt John Thomas made Jul 27 at 2019 9:41 PM

2019-07-27T21:41:10-04:00

Vietnam withdrawal was beginning and I knew that promotions in my career field would soon dry up. I decided to get out, complete my college degree and enter the job market. Within 2 years it was evident that I had made a correct decision. I would have preferred to remain to retirement but was not in the cards. I ran into several friends later and my assessment on promotions was correct.

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Jul 28 at 2019 1:45 AM

2019-07-28T01:45:11-04:00

'92, just after Desert Storm, 16 years in as a Medic. Last MEDAC assignment I'd had was Fitzsimmons Jan, '79 to Dec, '80, after that it was all CBT ARMS or Service Spt. units [MEPS, MFO]. When DOD was offered the SSB or VSI(10 USC 1175/ 1175a) to any that qualified after Desert Storm I took the VSI option and all was good until 9/11 happened.

After two Mobilizations as a Reservist I ended up falling into 10 USC 1176, Sanctuary; unfortunately I, and others in the same 'boat', are required to reimburse DOD the VSI/SSB funds they paid out even though they, DOD, cried like a "Life Alert" commercial for us to return to service.

Response by COL John Hudson made Jul 28 at 2019 8:36 AM

2019-07-28T08:36:45-04:00

On a High School degree, I wore enlisted rank in 1968 up to E7, then flight school enroute to Vietnam. I turned 21 and 22 there - two tours. Took 'battlefield' Commission to 1Lt and promoted to Captain one year later. All of this in just 4.5 years! War makes opportunity, but not the right kind in my experience. Big RIF came up and lots of buddies were given the 'heave-ho' without reason or compensation. We filed lawsuit against Government and won (this before the Agent Orange lawsuit years later) so were offered "Readjustment Allowance" on our way out. I had given Uncle Sugar his "Six Years" by this time and decided I needed more education. Morale was bad in every direction in the Army at that moment in time. Turned in my notice. Eventually spent six years working two jobs while going to night school. Completed civilian degrees in Business and Management while simultaneously completing three years night school for Army Officer Advanced Course after recall to Army Reserves (civilian school each Tuesday night - military school each Thursday night). Killer schedule but only method open to me to accomplish that. Immediately signed up for another three year Command & General Staff Course (all night school + Residency courses). Walked out the back door after tour of Balkan Conflict and the better part of four years in Iraq as Colonel 0-6 with 30 years in my pocket. Totality of these events turned me from tall, dark, and handsome to short, bald and ugly! Unfortunately, there's been no recovery from that transition! (Wink!)

Response by SPC Ray D. made Jul 28 at 2019 8:32 PM

2019-07-28T20:32:21-04:00

Unlike most of the responses, I did not retire from the military. For various reasons, I decided to join the United States Army the fall after graduating high school in 1972. While in Basic Training at Ft. Dix, NJ I was informed, due to my PT and other evaluation scores, that I was eligible to apply to the United States Military Academy Preparatory School then located at Ft. Belvoir, VA. At the time I was already in the “Special Leadership Preparedness Platoon,” still part of and in addition to BCT activities. I was informed that, if interested in the “USMA Prep School,” I should contact the West Point Liaison Officer at my next duty station and he would assist me through the application process. My AIT took me to Ft. Bliss, TX and “Nike Hercules Fire Control Systems Maint.” Training. Once at Ft. Bliss, I contacted the Liaison Officer and set the Prep School application process in motion. The Nike School was to be ten months in duration. I set about learning the job I’d enlisted to do, giving little thought to the application I’d set in process.

Seven months into the Nike course, July of 1973, I was summoned to the CO’s office. My initial assumption was that I’d screwed up somehow. Being a top student and reasonably squared away trooper, I couldn’t imagine why the training company CO would want to see me! After checking in with the First Sgt., I was shown into the CO’s office and informed that I’d been accepted to the United States Military Academy (West Point) Preparatory School in Virginia. I was to pack my gear, clear the base and proceed to Ft. Belvoir, arriving there by August something. Which meant I also was getting almost thirty days of leave prior to reporting to the school.

Being the son of a career Air Force enlisted man, I had little knowledge of and perhaps a lack of appreciation for the extraordinary opportunity that I’d worked myself into in my first year of military service and at nineteen years old. Regardless, I managed to complete the prep school and received an appointment to West Point for the class starting Fall of 1974. So, by this time I’d already been in the Army for two of my three year active duty enlistment. This fact caused me to pause and really consider what I may be getting myself into. I was getting ready to attend West Point for four years, I’d already served two years active. Plus, after graduating the Point, I’d still owe the year left of my initial enlistment AND seven years additional commitment post graduation. That’s a lot of years! Fourteen total. I balked.

My initial plan was to do the three years active duty, get out and attend college using the GI Bill. Not set out on a military career. When I completed my three years I was stationed in Europe. Still pretty squared away, the Army really wanted to keep me if they could. I was offered an impressive array of opportunities to try and keep me in, but as before, I did the calculations and also considered the fact that I’d declined an appointment to West Point. If I was going to spend longer time in the Army, perhaps make it a career, I’d already passed on perhaps the best opportunity I would have at becoming an officer. In the Army, if it’s going to be a career, being an officer would have been a great opportunity. Being a West Point officer would have been THE opportunity. Fall of 1975 I processed out at Ft. Dix and into my life as a civilian. The GI Bill did help me through college and eventually grad school. Still wonder, from time to time, what my life would have been like had I chosen West Point. On the other hand, my path took me to my lovely wife of 39 years. So, no regrets.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2019 12:23 AM

2019-07-29T00:23:00-04:00

I retired from the Marine Corps over 25 years now and not a day goes by when I think of my situation at that current time in my life. Just got back from the Gulf War in 1991 and transferred to Hawaii, 1st MEB, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Got promoted to CWO3 when I checked in. My whole attitude changed right after that. New Command on board and none were in the Gulf. It was like okay at first until you realize that everyone else opinion didn’t matter anymore. I turned down the ability to go LDO but in hindsight I did alright in the long haul. Every leader that I served with had asked me why I was retiring so early they even asked my wife. All I could tell them that it was time to move on and let the younger Marines take over. But, it was a good run and I can’t complain about anything. I had learned a lot from serving in the Marine Corps and will always be faithful and grateful for the opportunity to serve my Country, my God, and especially my Marine Corps. Semper Fidelis!

Response by SSgt Lori Laigaie made Jul 30 at 2019 10:33 AM

2019-07-30T10:33:18-04:00

I had 14 years in the Air Force and received orders to Bosnia. This was a dream, an opportunity to be a part of something, and the reason I joined the military. Unfortunately, my husband and 12 year old son had PCS'd to Guam, my four year old was with me in New Jersey, and the rest of my family lived in a different country. I had to re enlist to accept the orders. I remember being in the briefing and thinking about my sons without a mom for a year, what was I going to do with my four year old, and realizing that being a mom may be more important than me fulfilling my dream. I didn't return to the briefing after the break. Two months later I was in Guam, a mom, and realizing being a dependent wife and mom was harder than being active duty. I know my boys appreciate the decision.

Response by SPC Adrian LaPene made Jul 30 at 2019 11:58 AM

2019-07-30T11:58:13-04:00

1993, ETS or re-enlist. I was tired of being a Huey mechanic and wanted to re-enlist to be an MP but the career field was closed so adios and home I went. Seven months later I was in the police academy. 24 years with the NYPD. Thanks to both I was able to see and do things I never would have otherwise

Response by CPT Ronald Barker made Aug 2 at 2019 3:25 AM

2019-08-02T03:25:09-04:00

I went into service following ROTC and thinking of a career, but quickly discovered that I just didn't have the leadership personality and skills necessary to be a good officer. I volunteered for Vietnam, but within two weeks in-country realized the war had devolved into a terrible waste that should have ended two years earlier. The American effort was falling apart at the end of my tour in 1972; I left just as the Vietnamese Army in I-Corps (the northern quarter of South Vietnam) was collapsing under North Vietnamese attack. Further losses seemed unconscionable. I have always been proud I'd served but was also angry at the failure of our political leadership. Civilian life turned out successfully for me. But even so, I struggled for years with what I felt had been a personal failure as a small-unit leader.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Aug 2 at 2019 5:52 PM

2019-08-02T17:52:48-04:00

After my wife and I got married in 1996, she wanted me to get out of the Army. I told her I joined the Army before I met her, I decide when I want to get out. I said that because I wanted to be promoted to SSG, and if I left before doing that, I would have NEVER forgiven myself. Long story short, I got promoted to SSG in 2000, I retired in 2008. Sadly, my wife and I divorced in 2015, however, her decision to leave me for a younger man was a VERY STUPID CHOICE on her part.

Response by SPC James Seigars made Aug 4 at 2019 7:43 PM

2019-08-04T19:43:25-04:00

In 2005 I had just came back from Iraq the year before, I was a Sergeant (which is as high as I wanted to go since my uncle who was in Vietnam had got out as a Sergeant) and I had 17 years in. I was married and had three step-kids who were all in the mid-late teen range. I had to decide if I wanted to re-up for at least one more tour to go over 20 or not. We didn’t have good options, either (According to my wife). They were: Chicago (which I was born/raised), which she didn’t want because of the kids ages & gangs there, Washington State, which she didn’t want because no family are in that part of the country (I wanted to go since I had never been), and finally Germany, which they wanted to go to (and I didn’t because I had been there from 1988-1990). I almost didn’t re-up, but decided to do it 1-2 days before the deadline because :

1. I actually could be at least partially retired (that was when they had the 15 year active retirement (I ended up with 12 active & 12 reserve (came out 4 active for retirement which put me at 16).

2. They had never been out of the Mississippi/Alabama/Tennessee area and I wanted them to at least go overseas once in their lives.

My wife got cancer while we were over there and blamed me & the army so we ended up separated and divorced after I got out. But we reconciled before she passed in 2016 and if I had it to do again I am pretty sure I would still make the same decision.

Response by CPL John Jones made Aug 4 at 2019 10:23 PM

2019-08-04T22:23:07-04:00

Class of 1981 to 1983 ...Vicenza.. 71g...it's was all good

Response by SPC Samantha Stapley made Aug 5 at 2019 10:18 AM

2019-08-05T10:18:06-04:00

I got pregnant and was asked if I was going to stay in or get out. We were a dual military family, but I had decided I wanted a career. Then, I was accused of getting pregnant to dodge a deployment that we didn't even have orders for yet. I was told that my pregnancy profile was up to the commands discretion and that I would have to run and do normal PT. I was scheduled for 24 hr CQ duty every other day and on the days I was not scheduled, I would be tasked with watching the 1SG's dog until 9pm every day. I was passed over for the board even though I had the time in, passed a PT test in the appropriate amount of time and had a qualifying rifle score. (I took and passed my PT test while pregnant, before I knew that I was pregnant).

I slowly started changing my mind about staying in.

My mind was completely changed when I was told that I would be deployed as soon as I was off post partum profile to meet my unit there, my husband got orders to deploy around the same time, and then I ended up in the hospital twice for pre-term labor and got put on bed rest. The final straw was when the 1SG visited me in the hospital and asked me when I would be ready to get back to work and that I shouldn't stress myself out so much.

So, I got out 9 days before the birth of my first born.

Response by SFC Robert Mercantini made Aug 5 at 2019 12:08 PM

2019-08-05T12:08:56-04:00

I didn't want to retire. In 2004, in Ft Bragg we had a jump. Another gimme foreign jump wings day. Romanian I think. Did follow on mission went home and thought I was having a heart attack that night. Found out it was Multiple Sclerosis. At that time I knew my career was over. I still deployed still was far superior to many of my peers, troopers and of course the officers appointed over me. Went through three boards and fought to stay in even knowing I would never be promoted. Last board tabbed me non deployable. My last assignment was Monterey(Friend was branch manager). I knew it was time to go when my troopers from he past were getting promoted past me with no deployments, schools or anything , really. I could have stayed but I would end up at Huachuca.

Response by SGT Randall Smith made Aug 5 at 2019 4:13 PM

2019-08-05T16:13:07-04:00

There were two things that kept me from re-enlisting. But first, I liked the Army and was serious about staying in. I have to admit, I did not want to go back to Vietnam and I knew that is what would happen. And yes, I was afraid most days in Nam and every night. I could re-up for Germany but that was only guaranteed for a year and then another tour would hit me. I knew for 60 days I could re-up and not lose a stripe. So I went out to Ft. Hood one afternoon and that decided me to stay out. When stationed in Germany 1966-1969 I was strack, creases sewed in my fatigues, boots and shoes always spit shined and brass always looking sharp. That day at Ft. Hood I saw many soldiers with pants not bloused, boots not shined, walking with hands in pockets, caps on sideways and so many looked like slobs. l met with a SFC and told him what I thought. He told me it was that way everywhere and going to get worse. Went home and talked to my dad about it. He was a tank T-sgt in WWII in Germany, a 2nd Lt during Korea and a Capt. in Vietnam 1956. We only knew about that when he died and we got a copy of his DD214. He said he saw the same things I did when ever he went to Ft. Sam Houston or Berstrom AFB. So I got a job and stayed out. I was making $400.00 a month, than that was more than and E-5, over 3 with overseas and combat pay.

Response by Capt Jim Ross made Aug 6 at 2019 8:46 PM

2019-08-06T20:46:14-04:00

Back in 1975 when I reenlisted for the first time, I had to look closely at what was going on back home in western Illinois. Factories were closing and moving out of state, my wife was pregnant with our second child. My career field, Personnel 732X0, decided to offer a CRB (career reenlistment bonus) of 3. So I had to question, if I do reenlist do I go for 4 or 6 yrs. I was thinking if I went 6 I would be half way to my 20 if I wanted to make a career of it. If I didn't, I would have only 10 yrs and I would be on 28 when I got out. So I decided to go for it and did a 6 yr reenlistment. I wound up making it a career by taking night classes (this was before online classes were available), got my degrees (Associates thru CCAF and Bachelors thru Wayland Baptist), applied for OTS and was accepted. I had to reenlist 1 more time while waiting for my OTS class date. I served 21 1/2 yrs with almost even amount of enlisted and commissioned time. I and my family both enjoyed it for the most part and I and my wife still miss the military community/lifestyle after 27 yrs of being retired from the Air Force. You have to weigh all the factors. If you are married and your spouse doesn't like the military, then take that into consideration as he/she will not be happy unless they can start enjoying the lifestyle. I know a lot has changed since I retired in 92 so, I wish you the "BEST OF LUCK" on your decision.

Response by CW2 Michael Bodnar made Aug 8 at 2019 9:13 AM

2019-08-08T09:13:51-04:00

This is a great topic of discussion. I spent ten years on active duty in the Marine Corps and I decided back in the early 2000's that it was time to get out. I just started a family and the boss told me that she didn't want to travel around the world every couple of years anymore. It was by far the toughest decision I made up to that point. I came back into the Guard after a 6 year break and I'm now approaching the coveted 20 year mark. My plan right now is to stay as long as my body and mind are able to put up with the mental and physical demands required of the job. I will say it's beginning to get tougher with all of the deployments and hi OPTEMPO that's now required of the Guard. It's a great part-time job with benefits when you hit the age of 60 but that's still a long time away. The people are great to be around but there are those leaders that have been around for a long time that are stuck in their ways and don't want to budge. I primarily stay to be around the soldiers because at the end of the day, they're the ones who make things happen, we just give directions on what needs to be done.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2019 10:20 PM

2019-08-14T22:20:16-04:00

I was career Air Force. I struggled at one time because I wanted to be a cop. I was finishing up a criminal justice degree. While home on leave I visited a Missouri State Police barracks and talked to a captain. He told me if accepted I would start out at $425 a month. I couldn’t do it because I was a SSgt making more than that.

So I finished my degree, got my commission and became an Air Force cop.

Response by SMSgt Mike Wood made Aug 17 at 2019 8:02 PM

2019-08-17T20:02:59-04:00

Made the half-way decision. Went straight from almost 10 years active Army to Army Reserve. Pulled duty at West Point, Ft. Meade and SNCO Academy at Ft. Gordon. After 13 years in I STILL was on the fence. Met an Air Force Res. recruiter and asked him "How many times do you go down-range?" He said "What's that?" Signed on to the Air Force Res. (Medic) and stayed for 20 more years. Was called up for Desert Storm and OIF/OEF. Started my career in the South-east Asian Burn Center and finished in Ramstein, Germany, treating and transporting troops coming in from OIF/OEF. '71-'04, Ret. SMS.

Response by MSG Frank Kapaun made Aug 18 at 2019 7:15 PM

2019-08-18T19:15:17-04:00

When I was in Afghanistan and the command I was assigned to would not let me accompany my friend’s body home after he was killed. That sealed the deal for me and in my heart, knew it was time for me to leave.

Response by PO3 James Brown made Aug 23 at 2019 12:32 AM

2019-08-23T00:32:31-04:00

After 7 years I still wanted to stay in and retire but they told me I couldn’t, cause I had injured my right knee in the Navy. I injured it in 1982. Got out because they told me I could not re-enlist. So in 2008 started having having problems with right knee. In 2013 had a total knee replacement. The VA did a botched knee replacement and now it cannot be fixed. Trying to find out if I have a case for malpractice.

Response by SPC James Cooke made Aug 23 at 2019 6:55 AM

2019-08-23T06:55:31-04:00

July 2016. National Training Center. 92G Culinary Specialist. PFC at the time. As I was one of the supply and maintenance soldiers for my DFAC back in Fort Riley, Kansas, (and probably one of the best), my platoon sergeant saw fit to keep me in that position during our rotation at NTC. On our pad (and later on in the box), I was in charge of putting out condiments, desserts, fruit, amongst other things, and juice. I had a system in place to use one flavor per juice jug and have extras to hand out to other troops we served later on in the box to (you know) boost morale. My then-E5 apparently saw otherwise and interrupted me when I was making juice earlier in the day for dinner.

SGT: Here's an idea, Cooke. How about you mix these two flavors together to get rid of these juice packets?
Me: Why can't I make juice my way?
SGT: Because I outrank you, that's why.
(End of conversation)

Even though I was sleep deprived, I found out two things: 1) I shouldn't have questioned that NCOs comment in that manor; and 2) I didn't want to be in the US Army where an NCO was going to use rank to tell me how to make juice. Not once did the E5 ask me my plan of action for all of the extra juice packets. In the box, I handed out what juice packets I could. Not nearly as many as I hoped I had.

I continued to excel as a soldier for my unit and as a supply and maintenance soldier for my DFAC for the remainder of my contract.

Left in October 2018 with transition leave a month prior. Been itching to go back in, but under a different MOS; possibly a 68 series.

Response by SSgt Robert Van Buhler III made Aug 23 at 2019 1:32 PM

2019-08-23T13:32:04-04:00

I was in a Top Secret USAF Security Service clearance job. We got a new wing commander with attitude, and he busted the clearance of everyone stating their intent to marry a Filipina down to Secret. There were about 100 plus high value intel guys put on casual status, including me. I went from being a Training NCO to pulling Charge of Quarters every night for the Support Squadron. I was planning to make a career of it, having made E-5 in 3 years, but the adventure was the intel command environment and I saw myself ending up in a radio repair shop somewhere instead of serving at various interesting locations, like Brindisi IT, where I would have gone next had I kept my clearance. A captain told me in confidence (over a Tanduay Rum and Coke) that particular Col was not well liked by his officers. He had an inferiorty complex, hot having been an Academy Graduate. Not only that I got a very demeaning lecture for marrying out of my race and nationality to boot. Had that not happened, I would have re-enlisted, finished college tailoring to Intel and International Studies and sought an Air Force Commission. BTW the Navy was willing to take me as a transfer into NSG even with the wife.

Response by SGT Cheryl Meadows Smith made Aug 24 at 2019 5:16 AM

2019-08-24T05:16:43-04:00

After being out of the Army for 21 years, I still miss it. I had some medical problems starting in my early twenties. Surgery corrected the problem until I returned from Korea 7 years later. I started having physical problems all over again. I had to have the exact same surgery again and one month after return from sick leave, I was needing it again. I could no longer keep up physically. I gained weight, knew I would not be able to re-up unless I found some way to do PT and the other physical things that were required. I searched for 5 more months, fighting pain, doing remedial PT, talking to Doctor after Doctor, nutritionist after nutritionist and nothing improved.

I was up for E-6 but did not have the points to make it. No time for college because I was on-call a lot with my work as well as being a single parent.

Without being able to do PT, not really promotable and having a medical Colonel advising me that it was best because I could not have the operation again. I gave my dream and left with a honorable discharge

I was able to get a job almost immediately as a Business Manager but was not happy. Since I was and still am, a service-connected disabled veteran, the VA paid for me to obtain my BS in Business, majoring in Management Information Systems. I worked briefly as a Project Manager and Technical Writer before being unable to work at all. Twenty-one years later, I am happily retired.

Response by CDR Peter Gregory made Aug 24 at 2019 9:47 AM

2019-08-24T09:47:39-04:00

Back in the old High Three days, most at the 10-12 year mark would try to gut it out to 20. For obvious reasons. Do not know the drawing power or pull of the new BRS/401K/TSP plan or if that is still an incentive anymore. My counsel is to ask this simple question. Does your work give you purpose an meaning? Do you feel you are accomplishing something? Career Navy, but no matter the service or MOS, you will never have that so called "work life" balance so many wish and desire in the civilian world. This is the military, travel, deployment, separations are the norm, not the exception. That aside. if you hate getting up and going to work, just marking the days or time, maybe its time to consider other options or career fields. Go Reserve, Guard, use the GI/TA to retool and rebrand yourself. There are many, many ways to career, pension and health care, benefits earned. For me I honestly enjoyed the life, the Sea, the service. 23 years went very quickly. But that said, I always took it one duty station at a time, and always kept my options opens.

Response by SPC Ron Salsbury made Aug 24 at 2019 11:10 AM

2019-08-24T11:10:25-04:00

I had plans to leave the Army prior to Desert Storm until I was put on stop loss by Uncle Sam in 1990, I had every intention of getting out with the notion of returning to school to complete my studies. Following my return from the war, I took the 90 day extension granted by the President; while the first half of my unit was on furlough, I spent the first six weeks researching four military options of re-enlistment. Upon the return of the Unit members, I went home on leave to follow up on job searches as well as my previous collegiate institution, as well as three other future institutions of possible attendance. When I returned back to Post and found my Military options had failed, I resorted to back to my collegiate plans and let the chips fall where they may with the intent of getting my degree completed, attend ROTC, and possibly come back in as a Commissioned Officer. That is until I love of my life showed up; we got married continued my education and never looked back.

Response by 1SG J. Shannon Lewis made Aug 24 at 2019 2:07 PM

2019-08-24T14:07:20-04:00

I ETSd once. Was in best unit in the Army but was still young, single and home sick. Got married, went back in and endured 2 of the worst units I know of, but once I hit the 10 yr mark i knew I'd be a fool to get out. Best decision i ever made.

Response by CSM Clifford Gissell made Aug 24 at 2019 7:22 PM

2019-08-24T19:22:25-04:00

I had six years in the Army. Didn't know what to do so I reenlisted for six. Figured the question wouldn't come with twelve. It didn't

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Aug 25 at 2019 2:59 AM

2019-08-25T02:59:58-04:00

I struggled with it throughout my career -- end of the first hitch, end of the second hitch, end of the third hitch and when I decided to retire. I didn't see meaningful, worthwhile and interesting enough alternatives and there were other things I wanted to do. Also, the sense of familiarity and belonging was important to me. When I chose to retire, the week after I was selected for CSM, I did it because I had already decided that I didn't trust the chain of command anymore, thought there were too many careerist swine in the system and because I was having some serious health problems that would make it difficult -- even though I was assured that the "System" would take care of me -- to soldier the way that I thought and still think I should. I have no regrets about staying; I have no regrets but some guilt about leaving. I have missed the service everyday -- the challenges, the camaraderie, and the sense of meaning, and the sense of existential trust. I believe that I made the right decision although the extra pay might have been nice...but, we live as the sum total of everything we do and everything we encounter. Listen to your heart, and think clearly -- and you'll make the right decision.

Response by SMSgt Gerry Mitchell made Aug 25 at 2019 4:05 PM

2019-08-25T16:05:25-04:00

I didn't want to be in the military at all. However, 4 years in the Air Force was a whole lot better then 2 in the Army. I enjoyed Basic, and the first career, A7D Crew Chief AF decided for me. Right after I got to my first duty station, the reenlistment bonus went from 10,000 to 2000. After a few months I really got bored with the flight line, and the writing was on the wall about forced retraining. I looked around maintenance, happened upon Nondestructive Inspection. Put in papers and got accepted, enjoy working in the lab. When coming up to reenlistment, I had two weeks to decide. Looked at things, my wife had a good job, we owned our own Coop, we both were going to college, and I was a shift leader. We liked the Tucson area. So I went to reenlist. Completely enjoyed the career, the deployments, and the new Air Force Special Operations Command. Since all good things end, AFSOC changed. It just wasn't that much fun to come in and push papers. We had a new Squadron Commander that thought many SNCOs had been at Hurlburt Fld., too long and he was going to find an assignment for us. I told him no thanks and put in my papers effective almost a year away. Not a single regret. Though for a long time I missed being with people that had a mission, an important one.

Response by Capt Richard Willett made Aug 25 at 2019 5:33 PM

2019-08-25T17:33:30-04:00

My wife and spent many hours walking the housing area at Pope in 1977 trying to decide if I should stay over 20 years. I had almost 10 years commissioned time and was a regular officer. My remote return date was in 1964 as an enlisted. I had OERs that would get me a majors promotion. but they put my majors board back one year. I was looking at either a remote tour or a hdqtrs job. Neither excited me. My kids would be in HS. We decided to leave as soon as I had my 10 yrs commissioned time. I retired with 20 yrs and 2 mos. Sometimes I wondered what if??? but you can't look back with regrets. I'm very pleased with my life since. 20 yrs AF, worked 20 yrs, been retired 20 + yrs and working on
2d 20 retired.

Response by SFC David Hackett made Aug 25 at 2019 10:52 PM

2019-08-25T22:52:30-04:00

You just come to the realization that you have had enough of the bureaucratic BS. I am now a GS civilian and see the Senior NCO'S running around all stressed and angry and think "that was me 7 years ago". I am proud of all that I accomplished and of how I influenced others but I don't miss active duty. We all have our time and my service has come and gone and now it's the next generations turn to lead. The military is not for everyone but it instills the discipline in you to succeed no matter what. The only thing that I would suggest would be to have a continual life based skills training ie: finance, home buying, auto loans. General necessary skills that are quite frankly overlooked.

Response by Sgt John Mizell made Aug 26 at 2019 12:59 AM

2019-08-26T00:59:57-04:00

Medical Board made that decision for me , had orders to go back to Vietnam, for the 3rd time if the Medical board had decided I was well enough to go, I was still having to report to the hospital, each week, plus my dad was in the process of dying at the time, just a lot on my plate , at the time.

Response by SSgt Jeffrey Fatheree made Aug 26 at 2019 11:28 AM

2019-08-26T11:28:01-04:00

It came time for my separation at the end of six years. My wife and I sat and discussed the options. Her father had an insurance agency we could by or stay in the Air Force. She was expecting our first child and we finally decided to separate and come home. We weighed the positives and negatives of both paths and decided our children needed to get to know their grandparents. It was the hardest decision we ever made and there are days I’m not sure it was the right one.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 26 at 2019 2:34 PM

2019-08-26T14:34:32-04:00

In my career, the army decided for me to go. I became irrelevant.

Response by PO3 Troy Wartman made Aug 26 at 2019 4:26 PM

2019-08-26T16:26:47-04:00

Please excuse my lack of empathy and or compassion. When the end of my first 4 year enlistment was up, I had no wife, no kids, so i didn't have that added stress when making my decision. Keep that in mind when reading on. I went in to the Navy in 1992, had A school lined up to be an Aviation Ordnanceman. When it was time to make my decision to stay in or move on. I decided to move on. The squadron I was in VA-75, A6 intruders, there was no re enlistment bonus, only uncertainty due to there not being any more A6 squadrons. I got out, went home, collected unemployment for a few months got bored, went to work as an electrician in a non union electrician shop. Got tired of that , decided to use GI bill for school. Went to a private college, you know the ones people went to and then got the loans forgiven, (Corinthian colleges) well like an idiot I paid my loans off as I committed myself to when i took them out. I had a kid on the way while attending college as well, and worked full time during my 3 year enrollment until i got 3 AAS degrees. After getting out in 1997 , starting college in 1999, graduating with 3 AAS degrees in Information technology, i have 17 years of time built up in state service getting ready to clear over 100,000 of income. And if I can do it , anyone can do it . I also forgot to add in the little addiction i picked up before i started college. (cocaine and weed) Do what compels you , i did, and i havent looked back.

Response by LTC Warren Miller made Aug 26 at 2019 8:48 PM

2019-08-26T20:48:09-04:00

Enjoyed the life up until year 28 or so. Then the roller coaster ride began. Deployment was a “go,” then ultimately a “no-go” due to what was later determined to be an unfounded EO complaint from two years earlier. New job on G staff, but a lot of leadership challenges. Got sideways with the CG who tried to board me out while blocking any hope of transfer or promotion. Hated the life at that point and only showed up for my paycheck. Decided to get off my 4th point and again contribute and found my skills were still needed and appreciated by peers and subordinates. Although the board action was still open, I redeemed myself with new CG and the new regime. With a little over a year from MRD (and a board action now on year three not resolved), I found myself in a foreign land leading a 200-pax task force. Knew it couldn’t get any better. Dropped my packet when I got back, ultimately leaving on my terms.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2019 12:20 AM

2019-08-27T00:20:01-04:00

I just miss the job and the people. I loved being in but I was ready to go to the next stage of my life. Still haven’t got that part quite figured out lol

Response by PO1 Robert Vasseur made Aug 27 at 2019 2:31 PM

2019-08-27T14:31:52-04:00

Went into the service in 1958 as an electrician mate. Served in a carrier, then a destroyer where I was commended for saving the ship in heavy seas when the boilers were doused (literally out of steam) and the engineering officer or division chief couldn't get the emergency diesel generator to function. That got me into nuke school as a nuclear reactor operator/tech. But finally the Navy decided that electrician mates should not be reactor techs and demanded that I change my rate to either Electronic Tech or Interior Communications. I chose IC. Not having any actual experience as an IC made it doubtful that I could make E-7 in a reasonable amount of time, so I decided to get out after about nine years upon return from Vietnam. Turned out to be a great decision. Am now an old guy vegetating abstemiously but comfortably.

Response by LtCol Palmer Brown made Aug 28 at 2019 1:09 AM

2019-08-28T01:09:47-04:00

Well, I had 28 years in and when I got orders to Hawaii I decided I would stay for a few more. The two years into that tour I got orders to fill a Battalion Commander post and I just had to stay for a few more.

Response by LTC Ken Connolly made Aug 28 at 2019 12:37 PM

2019-08-28T12:37:47-04:00

Depends on what plans you are making to accomplish at the end of your service time. If you have not made any plans, then maybe consider staying in. I ended my first term enlisted, even after being offered SSGT, because I was accepted into college. Going to college made the transition to civilian life much easier and also gave me a purpose for when I got out. After college I went back into the military as an SSGT and shortly went to SFC, then direct commission. Made possible by the college degree.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2019 1:37 PM

2019-08-28T13:37:12-04:00

I actually struggled with and made that decision about 15 years in, when I told one of my SPCs to go fix an officers computer and he asked me why.

Response by SFC Michael D. made Aug 28 at 2019 3:36 PM

2019-08-28T15:36:48-04:00

I knew I was doing only 20 and getting out. Had a hard time believing I'd be hirable after age 40.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2019 10:36 AM

2019-08-30T10:36:35-04:00

I got "Exceeds expectations" on every NCOER for over five years in a row, was a go-to, problem-solving, come-in-early-and-stay-late, no-drama, combat-decorated NCO that was constantly asked to take care of problems and handle situations above my pay grade. Then I have life altering, service-related medical issue and came close to busting tape on height/weight one time, and I get hauled before the CSM and talked to like I'm Sergeant Shitbag. Following that, I had my medical issue used to justify having my career screwed with long after the issue was resolved. Fuck that shit. I'm now actively avoiding promotion and my exit strategy is in effect; another 9 months and I'll be making double this income in the private sector.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2019 9:35 AM

2019-09-02T09:35:32-04:00

I moved to San Antonio, stationed at Ft. Sam Houston. I knew very soon after arriving that Texas was where I wanted to stay. Good jobs, Veteran friendly and lots to do. I left active duty in 2015 and immediately went into the Texas Army National Guard. Did my 3 years there and got out completely last November. I was a contractor after leaving active duty, doing cyber security. It wasn't bad but I wanted more stability. Since June, I've been working at iHeartMedia as an Information Security Governance Analyst and I LOVE IT!

Response by PVT Richard Williams made Sep 10 at 2019 8:15 PM

2019-09-10T20:15:15-04:00

Got a 4 day leave from the army, before being shipped out to Vietnam. My Mom died the 2nd day I was at home. My Dad called red cross asking to have my 4 days extended and the company commander. We were told No. So my Dad told me if im not back in 4 days I would be considered awol, so, he left the decision up to me. Having a very hard time with my Mom gone I didn't return back to the army until 30 days had passed an I didn't care about anything back then. 1 brother was in Korea, my 2nd brother in Vietnam. The army gave me what they call, a profile 3 meaning I had the choice, stay or get out. 17 years old why in the hell would I want anything to do with the army or Vietnam. Paper work floating around the country waiting to get singed it took 4 months until I was discharged. All this happened in 1970. Young n stupid, the night before leaving home, to get sworn in, down town Detroit. Saying good night to my Mom, she said to me - are you shure you don't want to stay home and take care of me ? My reply was, Mom, you'll be OK . Even today I can hear her saying this.

Response by SFC Terry Bryant made Sep 13 at 2019 8:20 PM

2019-09-13T20:20:23-04:00

I served 32 years until I was 53 years old. I never in my career failed a PT test even after 9 surgeries. However my last 2 years I struggled horribly after my last 3 surgeries to include 2 back to back shoulder surgeries, and one back surgery. I could have stayed another 7 years, been a broke Soldier but I also knew that I could no longer run, jump and do the things a Soldier is required to do. I did not let the Army Medical me out so I just went away quietly with my hard earned retirement. It was one of the most difficult decisions I ever had to make. I feel lost sometimes and worthless after so many years of living with strict discipline and at least feeling as though I was accomplishing a mission. But it is good to be home and I have found a new purpose in life. Spending time with my family, going on trips and doing what I want to do and when I want to do it.

Response by MAJ Adrienne van Dooren made Sep 25 at 2019 1:07 PM

2019-09-25T13:07:44-04:00

I had a flat tire and the man at the gas station changed it and said-"you know, if I'd stayed in the Army I wouldn't be changing your tire right now" I never wanted to look back in regret

Response by PO3 Nicholas Bennett made Sep 25 at 2019 1:15 PM

2019-09-25T13:15:18-04:00

The answer for me came to me when my mother passed while on deployment. I love my country and I love serving it, I did my duty but I'm only so young. I didn't loose just my mother, I lost so much more family time and it showed me I want to make memories that last since I'm missing a lot to begin with already, so I was honorably discharged and also completed my reserve time. Now I have a recruiter calling me for reserve time again and I may just have to accept because I'm not getting enough financial support to follow my dream. It's fine though, I'll do what I have to.

Response by SP5 Gus Vass made Sep 25 at 2019 10:01 PM

2019-09-25T22:01:08-04:00

I got out in 1969 because I knew if I re-upped, they would send me back to vietnam. Once was enough. Airborne

Response by SSG Doug H made Oct 8 at 2019 2:09 PM

2019-10-08T14:09:11-04:00

It was easy for me. I had just left Ft Bragg, and was in Darmstadt GE, when rumors of Gothic Serpent started making their rounds. The more I learned about the way the administration(Clinton) threw them under the bus, the more difficult it became for me to maintain the commitment that I had before. I had no faith whatsoever in the civilian chain of command, and it was diminishing almost daily. No amount of money would have kept me in at that point, and they were offering money to leave. I have some regrets, but for the most part, never second guessed my decision.

Response by SPC Joel Lopez made Oct 10 at 2019 9:02 AM

2019-10-10T09:02:01-04:00

With no direction in the late 70's I was encouraged by a friend of my late mom to join the military. It was the probably the best decision I ever made in life. Unfortunately it was a most undesirable unit & it's hard labor work environment & other not so pleasant leader's methods. I even went awol at one point for 2 weeks. I thought long & hard & decided to go back as the best course of action. After re-enlisting my requests for transfer or re-assignment did not come to fruition so, I firmly requested for separation halfway through my 2nd term. I truly believe, under other conditions I would have made a much longer career of it.

Response by SSG Randy Talbot made Oct 19 at 2019 7:44 PM

2019-10-19T19:44:23-04:00

There were actually two. The first was a no brainer, the second I had no choice.
First was during my first tour in Germany. I was 21 and looking at my four commitment being over. But I had gotten married and we had a child. There were no prospects— in 1979 the unemployment rate in my home town was very high with many businesses moving out of state to the country. Going to her home was even worse. I ended up re-enlisting and took 6 years due to the bonus being paid out. I knew this would put me at 10 years but figured everything would be ok.
So in 1990, I had 5 years to go to retire. So I figured one more and I would be done. I had been divorced and remarried and although my unit physically was very demanding, I was re-enlisting to get out of there. Our doc told me that I had to have a physical and they ended up putting profiles on me due to surgery and an accident. So I got the physical. This was in like March of 1990 where they were kicking out NCOs like crazy to reduce the force. So my docs ended up sending me to a mmrb to determine if I could stay. Well, in the exam, my back locked up and I couldn’t straighten up. Needless to say the doc said, sorry sarge but your out.
Here was the kicker. I received my orders on the day before Saddam invaded Kuwait. So while I out processed, my unit packed up to move out.

Response by 1SG Steven Malkowski made Nov 2 at 2019 10:11 AM

2019-11-02T10:11:14-04:00

I had three years AD Army then went into the National Guard while I went to school. I liked the Guard and decided to stay for the 20 year pension. I got my 20 year letter making me eligible for retired pay at age 60 shortly after 9/11. We were already in the process of ramping up for deployments. After having spent 20 years "training" for the big show, I figured I owed the Army and our country a couple more years and do my part. I spent another 9 years in uniform. I was sent on one peace keeping deployment to Egypt in 2004 and was supposed to go to Afghanistan in 2008 but was injured just before deployment in my civilian job. After nine months of rehab and being away from duty, I saw some big changes in the unit and the command that I didn't like. We had come under a new MACOM and the politics were tough to deal with. It made it easy for me to retire two years later after I'd had enough.

Response by LTC Clayton Hill made Nov 5 at 2019 8:44 AM

2019-11-05T08:44:53-05:00

When our adopted son was born in 1982, I was Detachment Commander of 335th EN Det (Util) in Kansas City and at AT at Camp Clark, MO. I was granted 2-day leave to pick him up at the hospital in JCMO the middle weekend. On the way home, loaded my truck up with baby supplies at Fort Wood. After that, I was assigned to EB BDE in STL. My wife said the time away was too much for her, so I went to inactive status for 2 years. After hearing too many complaints about finances, I got back in in 1985 and finished my service at age 60 - 6 months shy of 40 years.

Response by 1SG Thomas Jasak made Nov 5 at 2019 9:46 PM

2019-11-05T21:46:44-05:00

I ended up doing just over 21 years active duty and am very proud of serving but I started asking Soldiers and Veterans from even before I joined when do you know when is it time to transition back into the civilian world. I was told over and over again that 1 day you will wake up and it will hit you that it is time to transition and you will fight it and eventually realize that your gut telling you it is time was right and you will then know when it is time. That is exactly what happened, I woke up 1 day and I knew it was time and I did fight it for a few months and finally came to realization that it was time to move on which I did when I retired 2 1/2 years ago and again am very proud to have served for over 21 years but retiring and moving on was the best thing for me to do at that point in my time and now very happy working part time at the post office to keep me busy at a very low stress job and spending a lot more quality time with my family.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2019 11:18 AM

2019-11-10T11:18:10-05:00

I was ready to submit my retirement packet few years back. I was tired of the bullshit. The unit I was in was not the best fit for me. It didn't help that 17 years I had to pick up a new MOS due to restructuring. I was done and didn't care. But I had a 1SG sit me down to talk about it. There was an opening in a unit with my old MOS. I would be on the ground floor building a new unit. So I decided to stay. Now I'm looking at my getting diamond. And doing everything thing I can do to stay for another 8 years.

Response by SSgt Marian Mitchell made Nov 10 at 2019 7:39 PM

2019-11-10T19:39:56-05:00

I was in England during the Iranian Hostage Crisis. If we would have gone to war with Iran, my then husband would have gone to Turkey with his planes, I would stay at my base as it was a refueler base and the kids would have been shipped back to the states. I couldn't live with the possibility of my family literally spread all over the world, so I decided to get out after 7 years (had to extend a year to go to England as it was 2 years unaccompanied or 3 years accompanied).

Response by CPL William Spence made Nov 18 at 2019 1:38 PM

2019-11-18T13:38:01-05:00

Was simple. I did my time; Vietnam was winding down; I was lucky; it was time to move on. Now at the end of my career with three college/university degrees, about a dozen patents, and published articles, I have to thank the Army for my start: the Army Security Agency and the instructors that took time to mentor me. I don't know where they are and I don't remember their names; but bless them all.

Response by SrA Daniel Ludwig made Nov 18 at 2019 2:29 PM

2019-11-18T14:29:04-05:00

My micro-management squadron commander was not allowing me to come back to the states to see my maternal grandfather, whom all his children had cut ties with him decades ago, who was dying of metastatic colon cancer. So, since I was already on the Beasty Boy/Chuncky Chicken Program, I let my weight get out of control. I refused to let them take a stripe and I was home to be at his bedside as he passed. I miss the AF every single day! I was an ER Medic & I loved my job! I loved making a difference and actually helping people. What I didn’t like was that biotch squadron commander who didn’t know the difference between people skills and a hole in the ground! When I left, she had 2 racial discrimination complaints against her at JAG. I later learned the AF kicked her out because she couldn’t make General!!!!! HA!HA!HA! TFF!!!!!

Response by SFC Louis Willhauck, MSM, JSCM, and ARCOM made Nov 25 at 2019 9:54 AM

2019-11-25T09:54:16-05:00

For me it was fairly simple... Retire at 20 or stay longer to work for half pay. Getting out and starting a second career at 39 was an easy choice. To start a career at 49 is a lot more difficult and this way I retired fully at 52 with a LOT more money than I'd have had otherwise. That and because my second career was as a computer programmer just as Y2K was breaking... well I'll just say that COBOL programmers suddenly "ruled the market" then... well, I guess I just was in the right place, with the right skills at the right time. But going back to leaving the Army, it was also that those where the days when many NCO's acted and seemed to be wishing they were officers and many officers were wishing they were NCO's. I didn't like that cross-over. To me, I believed Officers were supposed to be the where and when part... NCO's were the HOW...Anyway, that was the way I flowed and glad I did it the way I did.