How do you deal with the Military being your past life?

I hate it. I love it.

My father retired in 2001, and still misses it. He wishes he could get a letter asking him to come back in a lot, but his disability prevents him fun doing so. I can't imagine most people aren't that way to be honest. I had a very enjoyable enlisted career and still miss it a lot at the sand time that I'm looking forward to the rest of my career after school. So, if I'm still in and I feel that way, I can't imagine how much greater that being would be for you gentlemen who've had do much more time behind then must feel about it. Pretty safe to say it's not only normal, but that anyone who took pride and enjoyed their service as you did and doesn't feel that way, might be a little off!

Brother you are among like minded Brothers & Sisters. Welcome

You are not alone. I never retired but dedicated 6 years to the Army. I ETS'd in 2005. I catch myself on several occasions looking back at the family I left. I am 35 yrs old now. It has been 10 years since my departure onto a new life. I really think the bond and experience will never be the same of what was experienced in the military.

SGT Micheal Adams, believe me you are not alone. After I left active duty in 84 I felt out of place. Then when I went back in in 07 everything felt right. Now that I have been med retired I feel a little lost. My wife helps me a lot though by keeping me as busy as is possible.

Look back fondly on your great experiences. But also remember the aggravating things that no one misses when the leave. Such as: Raking the woods that no one could possibly see because you had to use a machete to get through the brush to get to where you were assigned to rake (Ft. Bragg clean sweep), mandatory fun days, POV inspections every Friday, packing your ruck the night before just to lay it our in the parking lot in the morning, and my favorite... showing up at the armory at 0430 for a change of command ceremony that starts at noon because every one in the CoC added 30 minutes to the show time. I loved the military and I miss most of the people, but I do not miss those things.

Brother, your not alone. I miss the AF. Even though recently retired a few months ago I see it as it will always be a part of my life. Be proud and be strong.

Someone mentioned Patches and Challenge Coins, funny you mentioned that because I just moved. So I had to rearrange and set up my me shelf. Go through duffel bags. You know going through duffel bags are like going through a box of old photos. Drags up memories good and bad. Mostly good in my case. DRIVE ON HOOOOAH

I miss it to a point but I work supporting Soldiers everyday in my new career. I keep up with most dealings with the Army more for situational awareness but also to lend advice if need be.

How do I deal with military life being my past life? I dont see the 24 years as my past life. Military service is and always will be a huge part of my life. It made me who I am today. I know that the transition was tough but as any good Soldier knows there are times when I had to "suck it up and drive on". I suppose I could have stayed a few more years and trained or mentored a few more Soldiers, but I knew that time with my family at 46 was going to be fleeting and I didn't want to miss anymore of watchi8ng the kids grow up. SO i have redirected my energy into coaching little league baseball, volunteering at Church and in the community. In a way I am still serving this country