Retirees, Veterans: how did you feel when you were first discharged from your branch of the military.

I had really mixed feelings. For the most part I loved my time in the Army and the people that I served with. I actually had a hard time deciding to leave. Unfortunately before the all volunteer military it was hard to get by. Stateside most NCOs worked second jobs to feed their families. My real rude awakening came when I learned just how much so many people hated us in the civilian world in the seventies and that it was almost impossible to get a job if you wanted to join the reserves. I have always missed the army and wish that I had stayed. Unfortunately none of us knew that the all volunteer military was just around the corner which resulted in big pay increases. My only other complaint with the army was that they very often did not honor contracts. I did very well in civilian life but I enjoyed the army more.

I missed it.

Have not had to face that music yet.

Relieved - recruiter screwed me out of an airborne slot, thoroughly enjoyed the 3rd Armored Division and disliked the 24th ID. Plus had the college fund and was ready to go back to school.

Felt great. I left my watch in good hands.....

I was very happy and still am!!!!

Lost...I made it a career and civilian life is still taking some getting used to.

I was lost . Most of you are from the 90s and later years I started my career in 1972. It was a different time and fellowship seemed to mean more. I still find it hard to deal with civilians. They just don't seems to get it they don't value what they have until they don't have it.

I was very happy but at the same time I was sad. I was sad because I would be leaving a lot of good friends and family. I had a job waiting for me when I ETS'ed.

I was scared shitless! Navy was all i knew and i had no idea what i was going to do with my life. Thankfully everything fell into place with time.