Retirees - When did you know it was time to hang up the uniform?

SGM Matthew Quick — Sat, 30 Nov 2013 23:14:25 -0500

Whether the choice was yours, your spouse's/family's, medical condition or you ran into one of the military's service length requirements, when did you know it was time to hang the uniform up for the last time?

Thousands of service members retire each year...your responses may impact their decisions.

Note: Keeping your responses short will allow for more views/responses.

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Nov 30 at 2013 11:52 PM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Sat, 30 Nov 2013 23:52:09 -0500

I was in a toxic unit, trying to recover from a toxic relationship. The ex got to some people in my unit that were more than willing to throw me to the wolves.
No loyalty, no sense of duty, no sense of honor. My years of service didn't matter, just the perception that I had screwed up this time.
Maybe it was just that unit, or maybe it is what the Army is becoming. Time to part ways.

Response by MSG Curtis Lange made Dec 1 at 2013 4:35 PM

MSG Curtis Lange — Sun, 01 Dec 2013 16:35:39 -0500

For me the decision to retire came down to the point that I was burned out with being an Active Duty Career Counselor for 20-years. I still loved working with young Soldiers and opening their eys to life. I had a good CSM and 3-star Commander, it had more to do with the bureaucratic nonsense that made taking care of Soldiers difficult just because they could, that was with enlisted, officers, and civilians combined. Some people lose sight of the fact that the Big Army can suck-up a mistake far easier than an individual Soldier, especially those with families.

Changing rules also had an impact that put me in a population that had no chance for selection to attend the Sergeant's Major Academy and promotion. Too many Senior NCOs were electing to retire, avoiding 3 possible PCS moves in 3 years, so the selection jumped to get Master Sergeants/First Sergeants that did not have that option. I timed my retirement to maximize usage of leave, permissive TDY, and clearing rules at my retirement installation.

Today is my 7th year anniversary of joining the ranks of Retired Soldiers. I have a good family, good job, and finally building my retirement house. I have no regrets, plenty of fond memories and friends, from my 25-plus years of active service.

Response by LTC Joseph Gross made Dec 6 at 2013 8:43 AM

LTC Joseph Gross — Fri, 06 Dec 2013 08:43:57 -0500

I'm not retired yet but if I can answer a little early. For me it was when I quit enjoying the work. I had a really bad assignment and I accepted one more, my current job, just so I would not retire with that bad taste in my mouth. But even being in a great job now, I'm not enjoying it. I'm burnt and ready to go home.

Response by SFC James Baber made Dec 7 at 2013 8:27 PM

SFC James Baber — Sat, 07 Dec 2013 20:27:36 -0500

I loved my job and career choice for most of my years in, but it stopped being fun and enjoyable from all the PC changes and power shift from NCO to Soldier. NCOs lost the ability to be NCOs and the Soldiers became to ones that controlled how things were done from their power to make false accusations and ruin NCO/Officers careers. Had to constantly look over my shoulder and wonder if that junior enlisted I counseled or made the on the spot correction was going to accuse me of doing something I didn't and have that stigma go with me. And the PC changes made it next to impossible for the immediate leadership to get rid of a subpar soldier, instead of the NCOs word and a few counseling's, you need ten witnesses and 5 volumes of packet filler to put the dirt bag soldier out. No longer fun or productive to me and the good soldiers.

Response by Maj Kimberly Burt made Dec 8 at 2013 11:41 AM

Maj Kimberly Burt — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 11:41:04 -0500

I am retiring next year - after 24 1/2 years in service.  It is time to give my boys stability (I'm a single mom) - stop the moving, the deployments, etc.  I have also become very disappointed in our leadership.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Dec 8 at 2013 12:56 PM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 12:56:56 -0500

Sadly, the choice to retire was not mine. I had a massive back injury, which put me on permant light duty, and in the Marines, if you can do two parts of the PFT, you still have a chance, but with a back injury, I couldn't even manage that, so I was boarded.

I have always thought that, if I had had the chance to consider leaving it behind, to choose a new path, perhaps I wouldn't have missed it so much when I left, because I have to tell you, with my mind still on USMC time, its really hard trying to "FIT IN" into a field where those qualities that made me a good Marine, didn't always translate into good office material simply because my heart wasn't in it.

Response by MSgt Barry Wilkins made Dec 8 at 2013 4:25 PM

MSgt Barry Wilkins — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 16:25:16 -0500

I knew when the Graham-Rudman Bill passed in '86. I was at RAF Upper Heyford, and was told I was "indefinably and involuntarily extended". No one could give me an estimate of when I could join my family back in the States, so I pulled the plug. I really wanted to go back for a year or two to do some job hunting, but it all worked out.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2013 5:01 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 17:01:15 -0500

For me it iwas a medical condition I have been fighting with for a few years now. I will have 23 years in when my retirement date hits. I promised myself that when my body cannot handle the pain anymore I would step down to allow another Soldier to step up and take my place in this great Army. I just hope all the Soldier's I have the pleaseure of teaching, mentoring and training has learned from my accomplishiments as well as my mistakes.

Response by Capt Mark Dyson made Dec 8 at 2013 6:24 PM

Capt Mark Dyson — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 18:24:24 -0500

I actually had a business opportunity waiting for me on the outside, so I was chafing to tackle it and see what I could create. I was commissioned well after the halfway point of a traditional 20-year career so I took the strategic move of making sure I had 10 commissioned years in first, then it was time to take my leave. I loved my tenure in the service but it was time to move on.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2013 6:52 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 18:52:40 -0500

It was time. I entered onto the rolls of the retired on 01 July 2000, at 20 years and a month. Non-select for 05, having missed branch qualifying assignments while I was a single parent, I called it a day with few regrets. I had achieved each personal goal I had set. I had the privilege of having four command tours, two INF and two SF. There was no higher honor, no better job.

However, my real "come-to-Jesus-moment" was in 2008, after seven years as a private contractor, my son deployed to OIF while I was there again. That is when I looked in the mirror and said to myself, "Time to come home."

Response by MSgt Raymond Hickey made Dec 8 at 2013 7:50 PM

MSgt Raymond Hickey — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 19:50:58 -0500

At the 18 year mark, I started thinking of retirement...promotions had slowed down because of reductions in the services, this was when Clinton was president. I also couldn't deal with all the PC business that was going on. Instead of just being a good NCO the AF decided that all NCO's needed to be politically correct. This was true even at the local level. After a TDY to JTF-Bravo and then returning to my home base, I learned that I was being reassigned within the unit. The politics were just to much. I was finally reassigned as the Superintendent of Weapons System Security for the final 15 months. I was asked by some rnking officers to stay in but once I had made up my mind, no going baCK

Response by SFC Charles W. Robinson made Dec 8 at 2013 8:22 PM

SFC Charles W. Robinson — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 20:22:31 -0500

After my second brain tumor while stationed in Hawaii. I new then that I would never be able to deploy again. I figured that if I could not deploy, then I needed to retire. The deployments is what has always kept me in and is what I miss the most.

Response by MSG Michael Graham made Dec 8 at 2013 8:24 PM

MSG Michael Graham — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 20:24:28 -0500

My decision was clear to me. My oldest was graduating High School in May of 2013. My unit was scheduled to deploy to Afghanistan in Feb. 2013. Having spent less than half of my daughter's life with her, I made the decision to retire to ensure I would be there to see her accept that diploma. BEST DECISION EVER! I have not missed a thing about active duty. Having said that, I have been jumping from one minimum wage job to another. All the job offers I am receiving are for sales (specifically insurance) or in another state. Yet, I still do not regret retiring.

Response by LCDR Doug Nordman made Dec 8 at 2013 8:50 PM

LCDR Doug Nordman — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 20:50:16 -0500

I made the cut for submarine XO but never got the call, so I failed selection for O-5. I knew at the 16-year point that I'd be retiring at 20.

We'd always been saving aggressively, but now we had a deadline. We reached financial independence at the 19-year point. I retired in June 2002 with the pension and enough investment income to enjoy our beach-bum lifestyle.

My readers tell me that you'll recognize when the fun stops, and you'll know when it's time to go. The key is saving & investing enough while you're in uniform to have the financial independence to make your own choices. Even if you can't cover your expenses on your finances when you hang up the uniform, you'll still have the flexibility to go back to school or do a thorough job search or start your own business... or just take some time off.

Two excerpts from the book:

http://the-military-guide.com/2010/10/11/when-should-you-stop-working/

http://the-military-guide.com/2011/01/06/the-fog-of-work/

The "fog of work"

This essay caps off the book's first seven chapters of ways to leverage your military career & benefits for financial independence and retirement. I wrote it after an exchange with Tomcat98 at ...

When should you stop working?

What's your future? After active duty will you retire from the military to a "bridge career", will you semi-retire to work part-time, or will you retire early and never earn a paycheck again...

Response by COL George Antochy made Dec 9 at 2013 12:59 AM

COL George Antochy — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 00:59:19 -0500

When I reached my Mandatory Retirement Date in 2009. Though my USAR drill site was in Birmingham, AL, and I lived in Arlington, TX, and drill was costing me about $1,500 a weekend to attend, I would have preferred to stay with my previous unit and taken them on their next mobilization and deployment to Kwait. Now I have my weekends back, and my son is serving, and I really do not miss it; that's when I knew it was time.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2013 6:41 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 06:41:31 -0500

Your body will tell you because when your are in so much pain daily that prevent you from being all that you can be it is time to retire, or if you can no longer say I am ProudlyServing In Today'sArmy or what ever branch it is time to retire.

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Dec 9 at 2013 7:33 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 07:33:14 -0500

It was time to leave when I felt like I was ready for a change. I had a blast during my 20 years; however, I wanted to do something different yet still be associated with the military family. I've since joined up with Project Sanctuary (http://www.projectsanctuary.us) and now I continue to serve those very families that serve our country.

Home - Project Sanctuary

At Project Sanctuary, we believe the whole family serves, and the best way to “support the troops” is by supporting the family. We provide therapeutic retreats, enabling military families to reconnect...

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Dec 9 at 2013 8:19 AM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 08:19:08 -0500

The decision was made for me when I was not selected for the MSG promotion list off the 2011 board, was at 24 at the time and that was my last chance to stay longer than the 26 I retired at. For me it was more about still doing something I loved, training Soldiers, than the actual promotion, I wasn't ready to go...but in this day and age of a downsizing Army, I witnessed a trend of promotions, at least within the Armor community, where people that were "young" and less experienced were the ones being selected, "more bang for the promotion buck", and old-timers like myself were passed over. I ended my career as a Senior Platoon Trainer(Sr Instructor) in the Armor School teaching Armor BOLC, I was still having fun at what I was doing, training future PLs, and honestly hated to see it end. All I can say is be prepared for that day...sorry my response wasn't brief, mea culpa......

Response by TSgt James Marotto made Dec 9 at 2013 12:08 PM

TSgt James Marotto — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 12:08:58 -0500

I have to laugh about this...... It was the day I went to do AEROBICS PHYS FITNESS TEST with my two troops, a young Female Airman and a young Buck Sgt.. I was doing my run, my troops were almost done they looked back to see their Leader wasn't going to make his time. They fell back and PUSHED me like two Boot Camp TI's. They did everything but pick me up and carry me.... LOL. Well, I made it, but my temples were pounding, I felt old, out of shape and it bothered me so much, the next morning I went to Personnel and put in my paperwork. I knew, it was time to pass it on to the YOUTH. This old TSGT was ready for greener pastures. For me it was that simple.

Response by COL Dan Williams made Dec 9 at 2013 1:54 PM

COL Dan Williams — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 13:54:15 -0500

I had thirty years.

Nough said.

Response by CDR Richard Tucker made Dec 9 at 2013 9:07 PM

CDR Richard Tucker — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 21:07:14 -0500

This is an easy one. When it ceases to be fun. When you no longer love what you do. It took me 31 years to get there, but only one tour to DC. Thank God it was the last tour.

Response by SFC Rich Carey made Dec 10 at 2013 9:28 AM

SFC Rich Carey — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 09:28:03 -0500

It was a combination of things, it wasn't that one thing and bam!

First, the military is only 1 Chapter in your book and like I always said "You can't stay in the military forever, you must plan your exit" My favorite saying was "LAA", Life after Army, what do you plan on doing? So for me, I became debt free and I didn't buy a new car or house exiting the Army.

Two, I Became All I Could be at the Time, medical problems.

Three, I had that inner feeling, time to move on although I loved being an Army Career Counselor.

Four, My wife and I wanted to settle and my parents were not getting any younger, plus we had a young child.

Bottom-line, Planning made the transition easier, but you can't plan 1 month out and expect it to be just fine. If you haven't started planning, then start now.

Response by 1LT Israel (Izzy) B. made Dec 10 at 2013 2:37 PM

1LT Israel (Izzy) B. — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 14:37:45 -0500

When I was directed to the med board by HRC. The current operating environment is to draw
down several thousand troops, so anyone with a medical condition is susceptible
to being discharged. Branch transfers to
retain Officers with extensive experience and training are almost non-existent,
even when only having a condition incompatible with your present branch but
acceptable for most other ones. Retirement
or separation is a decision being made for many of us - not just for the
overweight, undisciplined, and troubled Soldiers always being mentioned on
message boards or in the general media.

Response by SFC Benjamin Parsons made Dec 10 at 2013 6:55 PM

SFC Benjamin Parsons — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 18:55:19 -0500

Army was temporarily without a mission (end of USSR) and wasn't handling it well in my view. Stopped being fun.

As I aged, I also found it increasingly difficult to physically keep up with my soldiers. Mid forties. Pass PT tests with mediocre scores just fine. But that took dedication and work beyond daily PT, and the time, energy, and will to keep it up was drying up (burn out?).

Without saying junior officers were getting worse, their confidence level (not competence) seemed to be dropping. Many seemed to kind of live in fear for their careers all the time and one of my last ones took as much of my time as any of my troops.

Just became harder and harder to meet my expectations for myself. Hate to admit that.

Response by SGM Eric Nelson made Dec 11 at 2013 7:08 AM

SGM Eric Nelson — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 07:08:08 -0500

For me, it was a confluence of a bunch of things.

First, the knees were going bad and I couldn't keep up with the youngsters anymore. After years of falling out of "perfectly good" USAF airplanes and pounding the roads, they just stopped working like they used to.

Second, I had just come out of a 15 month tour in Iraq (2nd tour) and was looking at another in the very near future.

Third, I was stationed in Germany and my wife was in a PhD program that was causing her to have to travel back to the states a lot. It was both draining on her and a strain on us.

Lastly, I was at what I considered to be one of my best assignments I had ever had - I loved the unit, the mission, the people, and the location. But it was going to end soon and as I said before, I was staring down the barrel of another deployment.

Considering all of that, and having had one failed marriage due to the military (not blaming the Army, but it happened) we decided to get out while we were on top. It took almost a year of talking about it to finally make the decision, and once we submitted the packet, we spent the next six months debating whether we should pull it. It was a tough decision, but we made the decision together and I retired at 23.5 years.

I don't regret our decision, but I miss the old life every single day.

Response by SFC Stephen Hester made Dec 11 at 2013 7:29 AM

SFC Stephen Hester — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 07:29:47 -0500

I can't say that it was any one factor. One kid in HS, another coming up, plus a potential PCS to Hawaii (lousy public schools) helped me make my decision. I knew deep down that it was time to go even though I had felt as if I had a few more good years left in me. It's best to leave when you're at the top of your game (not necessarily the top of the pay chart) and carry that over into your new career.

Response by CPT David Roy made Dec 11 at 2013 10:21 AM

CPT David Roy — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 10:21:37 -0500

21 years

Response by LTJG Robert M. made Dec 11 at 2013 1:14 PM

LTJG Robert M. — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 13:14:36 -0500

When I retired in 1996, USCG came out with Early Retirement Program, had to have between 18-19 years of service, I was at 18.5. Retired with Full Benefits at 38 years old. Best decision I ever made. My advice is Retire early enough to be marketable in the Workforce.

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Dec 11 at 2013 1:32 PM

1SG Frank Boynton — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 13:32:33 -0500

A few things led up to it. I was scheduled for CSM Academy and rotation out of Germany after 7 1/2 years. I finished up my tour in Kuwait during Desert Shield/Storm and returned to my unit in Germany to find out they wanted to send me back into the Airborne. That was the straw that broke the camels back for me. We retired out of Germany, took a 45 day terminal leave and processed out of the Army at Ft. Carson, Colorado at 37 years old. I don't regret it for a minute.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2013 3:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 15:50:53 -0500

My decision was simple. When I was in Korea I heard the phone calls to children back home who were heart broken their mom/dad was away for a year or more. I vowed then that if I should ever have a child that would be my last term of enlistment. My son was three weeks old when I was shipped out to Iraq in Feb. 2003. My term ended while I was in Iraq and when I returned I ETS'd back home.

Response by TSgt Kevin Buccola made Dec 11 at 2013 5:53 PM

TSgt Kevin Buccola — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 17:53:27 -0500

When it stopped being fun and turned into a job. Also with office and base closures.

Response by MAJ Jeff Coulter made Dec 12 at 2013 6:16 PM

MAJ Jeff Coulter — Thu, 12 Dec 2013 18:16:31 -0500

I haven't retired yet, but I'm planning to after my next tour. To echo what so many of my fellow warriors have said, it's not fun anymore, and I'm ashamed to see that my Army has been infected by the same pathetic moral climate that plagues the nation at large. I want to get out before I'm forced to make a choice between the mission and doing what I know is right.

Response by MSG David Kalb made Dec 12 at 2013 7:28 PM

MSG David Kalb — Thu, 12 Dec 2013 19:28:14 -0500

When my CPT told a PFC: "Don't worry about doing what he told you (taking a bag of trash to a dumpster about 100 feet away), I'll have a talk with him (me-MSG and the PFC's 2nd line supervisor)."

Response by LTC Timothy Loney made Dec 12 at 2013 9:42 PM

LTC Timothy Loney — Thu, 12 Dec 2013 21:42:44 -0500

Back when I was a Lieutenant I decided to stay in the Army as long as it was fun. Twenty-Eight years latter my MRD came I round and I had to retire. Along the way I was told you know it's time to retire when the structure you joined in came back. In the Reserves when I joined the army was stove piped, then it went to regional commands and then finally at the end of my career we went back to stove piped commands.

Response by SFC Robert Haxton made Dec 13 at 2013 8:00 AM

SFC Robert Haxton — Fri, 13 Dec 2013 08:00:29 -0500

For me it was much like most previous responses in several different factors. The first was the fact that the job quit being fun for me. I quickly realized when I went from being a military police squad leader to sitting behind a desk as an operations sergeant back to being a platoon sergeant and then a Provost Marshal NCOIC, that I did not care for the administrative function and "office politics" that came with the staff position. I felt more at home pushing troops as a squad leader and platoon sergeant. With that came the second factor in which political correctness and the touchy feeling training that big Army was implementing. Much of the reason that this training was and is being mandated is a knee jerk reaction towards many of the younger kids coming in the military now in their inability to cope with adversity or hardships that the military can impose. It simply burnt me out, but at the same time pointing me in that direction of retiring which was one of the best decisions I ever made. No regrets.

Response by CPO Dan Noe made Dec 15 at 2013 12:28 AM

CPO Dan Noe — Sun, 15 Dec 2013 00:28:47 -0500

I realized after 31 years of combined active and reserve duty service that it was time to go when I received the letter. It said "roughly" Thank you for your 30 years of service.

It was a good run I enjoyed all the time I sent in uniform.

Response by 1SG Phillip Wood made Dec 16 at 2013 8:20 AM

1SG Phillip Wood — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 08:20:17 -0500

We were facing cutbacks and a couple of NCO's below me were looking at early non-voluntary discharge. I had had my time in the sun and was ready to move on as I was no longer finding joy and found it more and more difficult to boot up in the morning. By my retiring it allowed the the two younger soldiers to move up and finish their distinguished careers. I don't regret my decision at all as there will always be a time when one should move on.

Response by CPT Jerry Johannesen made Dec 21 at 2013 11:16 PM

CPT Jerry Johannesen — Sat, 21 Dec 2013 23:16:27 -0500

I was medical retired from the Army. I could have fought the MED Board. As I was coming up in through the enlist ranks I was taught if you cannot lead from the front it time for you to go. I figured since I could not lead from the front in all aspects, it was time for me to go.

Response by LTC Mel Magsino made Dec 22 at 2013 10:59 PM

LTC Mel Magsino — Sun, 22 Dec 2013 22:59:02 -0500

I retired a few months ago...turned down battalion command and decided to submit my retirement papers soon thereafter. Most people will tell you that you will know when it is time to retire...and for me, it was that lack of passion about "Soldiering" and I wasn't having fun anymore.

After another yearlong deployment to Afghanistan (apart from my wife for 16 months who was also deployed to Afghanistan this time - staggered deployment), I thought a few months before I PCS to take command would re-energize me and get my passion to lead Soldiers back to where it was...a couple of months turned to three and four and the passion and fun did not return. I knew then that it was time to hang it up. I realized that if my passion for the job is not there, then I will be doing a great disservice to those Soldiers I would be leading...and you can't hide that from your Soldiers.

Response by SFC Rocky Gannon made Dec 28 at 2013 6:59 PM

SFC Rocky Gannon — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 18:59:03 -0500

I called it quits when it was no longer as fun as it used to be. With changes in the Command and the restrictions, I know it was time to go.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 7:09 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 19:09:10 -0500

When it's no longer fun and rewarding.

I said in another thread: the Army has given me a lot but it has also taken a lot (my health, family time, a couple marriages). When it takes way more than it gives could be another time.

Response by CSM Mike Maynard made Dec 28 at 2013 7:34 PM

CSM Mike Maynard — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 19:34:29 -0500

With more than enough time for retirement, these types of discussion become more and more relevant.

I know for me, I'm still having fun and I'm still being challenged and I still have that passion to give back.

I think, especially at the Senior level, that is my role now - to give back and make people better. When I don't have a passion to do that anymore, that'll be the time to hang it up.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 8:24 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 20:24:40 -0500

When I realized that, despite all the time and experience I've amassed, I'm still merely the the summation of what's on my chest. When it was no longer fun or strictly business and it became personal. When I realized I'm no longer serving my nation or constitution, I'm merely surviving these final three and a half years.

Response by CWO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 9:07 PM

CWO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 21:07:06 -0500

Most of the people that I have seen called it "quits" and retire is when they found that they involuntarily began to resist changes made by the senior leadership of that particular branch of service, whether internally or through action. Something deep in them started to manifest and in their subconsciousness and they discovered that enough was enough.

Response by SPC Raul Santiago made Dec 28 at 2013 9:09 PM

SPC Raul Santiago — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 21:09:29 -0500

I did after a year long stint in Egypt with the M.F.O as a support transport. I was in a spiral that continue to my next duty station. I was found to have nerve damage. You like what you are doing and want to continue but your body doesn't follow your heart.

Response by SFC Gary Fox made Dec 28 at 2013 9:17 PM

SFC Gary Fox — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 21:17:59 -0500

I submitted my packet when my fun meter was pegged.

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Dec 28 at 2013 10:46 PM

CPO Jon Campbell — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 22:46:19 -0500

I knew when the 5 year mandatory PCS for reservists rule forced me to travel nearly 10000 miles a year to drill and pay for it myself. I did the math and found I was going to be earning about as much as an E2 after expenses. Pay-to-Participate is a poor policy, but are unlikely to change any time soon.

Response by TSgt Brian Herman made Dec 28 at 2013 10:52 PM

TSgt Brian Herman — Sat, 28 Dec 2013 22:52:39 -0500

I had almost 10 years on active duty, then an 8 year break, and then 12 years in the Air National Guard.
Changing missions, down sizing, losing our C-130's in addition to the huge increase in all things "PC" let me know that I had had enough. I miss it everyday! I was able to get a deployment at least once a year for the last 12 years! I don't know how to handle NOT getting ready to leave again.
The economy is very weak, at best, and I totally understand how the guys that are looking for work feel! It took me almost a year to find a decent job, and like a few others here, I got on with the post office. But I also feel like it was time for me to move on. That which I know that I think is important and of value to the USAF, will have to be learned with out me. Oh well....

Response by SSG Waldo Yamada made Dec 29 at 2013 7:35 PM

SSG Waldo Yamada — Sun, 29 Dec 2013 19:35:52 -0500

I'm gonna simply put it this way. When you simply don't have regrets about the Army. I resented joining when I was a private but that all went away after learning valuable morals from my leaders and mentors, and when new soldiers arrived and I first saw a wave of attrition, this discouraged me. When I got medically retired. I didn't accept it until I had to face the fact that I have to live with a mental disability. Right now, I feel as if I left my duty without feeling accomplished. So I am continuing finding ways to rejoin the Army, because I signed a contract and left it unfulfilled.

Response by SGM Chris Kaukali made Dec 31 at 2013 1:37 PM

SGM Chris Kaukali — Tue, 31 Dec 2013 13:37:46 -0500

There is a life after retirement! When you no longer enjoy putting on the uniform, it's probably time to consider your options. I retired at the top of my game, with 4 years as an E9. Although I could have stayed another 10 years, I believed it was my time to bow out and give the leadership opportunity to others. As a young enlisted, I criticized the old crusty E9s who were poor examples of leaders. I did not want to be remembered as one of those. I now enjoy time with my family and the activities I could not participate in when I was "in". My family and my health are #1.

Response by 1SG Alan Bailey made Jan 10 at 2014 2:47 PM

1SG Alan Bailey — Fri, 10 Jan 2014 14:47:19 -0500

I have made the decision to retire my last day will 1 JAN 2016, my last kid will be out of high school and the oldest out of college. There are a couple of reasons, one me and the wife always said when the last kid graduated I would go, second I hit 24 years in 5 days and the Army life has taken its toll on my body, I hate not being able to keep up with the young kids. And, even though I love the Army and the best decision I ever made, it is just not fun anymore. I can go into alot of problems I see in the Army but that would be a whole different decscussion.

Response by SFC James Baber made Jan 11 at 2014 10:10 PM

SFC James Baber — Sat, 11 Jan 2014 22:10:03 -0500

I think this is a good thread for those we are trying to get to join can see the substance of some things we discuss between us as current and former military, soft spoken as well as informational and mentoring types of postings.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2014 2:28 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 14:28:21 -0500

Years ago when I was a young SSG I remember a SFC stating I love the Army but I am not in love with the Army anymore! I had barely hit ten years in service when I heard him say that and didn't really grasp how he probably was feeling tired, over worked, and under appreciated. Mix that in with an Army that has consistently changed in so many ways I can now truly grasp how he felt.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2014 6:43 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 18:43:07 -0500

After 35 years TIS my body is telling me it is time to hang it up. I love being a soldier but have noticed a severe loss of respect and discipline in the army. It will be sad to hang my uniform up and at the same time I am ready to be able to go and do whatever I want whenever I want.

Response by 1SG David Niles made Feb 14 at 2014 4:15 PM

1SG David Niles — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 16:15:12 -0500

When I knew that I was not willing to keep up my physical standards and get taped, I passed the Tape Test, but I did not want to go through that. As the NCO in charge of tape testing in a couple of units, I determined after tapeing many NCO's E-7 and above that I would not be that guy. To me it was a sign to step aside and let the younger more motivated soldiers step up and fill my shoes. Did i and do I miss it, yep, but I still think it was the right decision.

Response by CSM Michael Poll made Feb 14 at 2014 6:04 PM

CSM Michael Poll — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 18:04:37 -0500

It is my intention to hang it up when I no longer enjoy putting on the uniform. This is up to each Soldier. It will either be when I am not having fun, or when I can no longer do the job required of me. I have the feeling that within the next couple years, I will throw my boots over a wire. It is becoming time for me to spend time with my wife.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Feb 14 at 2014 6:10 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 18:10:10 -0500

I have been having less and less fun over the last 3-4 years.... I am now at 18 years, tried to TERA, but they feel I am not eligible....so 2 to go...and I will be GONE. When you wake up not wanting to go in, it is time to think about punching out. I have had a GREAT run, but time to try new.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Feb 14 at 2014 6:46 PM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 18:46:34 -0500

RCP...apparently became too "mature" for promotion to MSG in the evolving Army...I stayed as long as I could doing what I loved, training Soldiers, in my case young Armor LTs in BOLC.

Response by SFC Gary (Bigsarge) Portier USARMY RET. made Mar 12 at 2014 8:07 PM

SFC Gary (Bigsarge) Portier USARMY RET. — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 20:07:11 -0400

When I no longer had to do APFT and PEB (199) said they are retiring me medically in the next few months @ 32 years. Waiting for the orders.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2014 11:06 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 23:06:05 -0400

After 35 yrs TIS I am retiring due to illness. I do feel that the soldier coming in today is less disciplined and more defiant to leadership. The NCO's today are being promoted too fast and I believe many do not have the experience to handle the responsibilities with respect to requirements needed to handle subordinates, interacting with superiors and overall life experience. I love being a soldier and even though my time is up I will always be a soldier at heart.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2014 10:20 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 10:20:07 -0400

I made a difference and affected many new Soldiers that have joined the ranks within the Military. I've committed 32 years of my life into my Army and it has been nothing but a Blast.

The Hearts in it but the injuries have slowed this Ol CSM down to the point that I'm not combat effective. It's time to step aside...

Response by Lt Col Robert B. made Mar 27 at 2014 9:37 PM

Lt Col Robert B. — Thu, 27 Mar 2014 21:37:41 -0400

When my last assignment was much less interesting than my first and the next one looked worse. I stopped growing and started ossifying so it was time to go. Yes that's naive, the transition is tough but now I'm two years on the other side I'm glad I did it. Reason two was when all the fog and friction overwhelmed motivation. Never let yourself become one of the bitter old staff guys too afraid to move on.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2014 9:49 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Mar 2014 21:49:30 -0400

Not retired, and not ready to yet, but those retirees that I have talked have said that when you cringe on going to work daily, or hesitate on getting out of bed in the morning, or just don't enjoy what you do everyday, it's time. For me, it would be when I can no longer make a difference, or don't enjoy doing what I do on a continuous basis...

Response by MSgt Fran Hopkins made Mar 28 at 2014 2:58 PM

MSgt Fran Hopkins — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 14:58:56 -0400

After 22.5 yrs...I knew that it was time when "They" decided to PCS me to Korea for a 1 yr remote tour and "Plan" to "Break my leg and shave off an inch or so" in hopes to make me better. I couldn't stand the thought of having my leg broken in "the land of the not quite right" and try to do rehab by myself...it was time to punch and leave the Service to the young bloods.

Response by COL Michael Simone made Mar 28 at 2014 5:37 PM

COL Michael Simone — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 17:37:05 -0400

In my earlier years as a company grade officer, I often thought about how I'd like to resign or retire at 20 and try something completely new. As I progressed in assignments, each of which was even better than the last (through sheer luck in finding some of the great niches that the Army has), I realized I'd be in until the Army told me to retire at MRD of 30 years. I hated to let go and hang up the uniform for the last time, but it's easier knowing that retirement of the older guys and gals clears the way for the great, dedicated young talent the Army has in younger generations.

Response by MSgt William Webb made Mar 28 at 2014 6:51 PM

MSgt William Webb — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 18:51:40 -0400

I really enjoyed my time in the AF. As an aircrew member, I saw some great (and some not-so-great) places. I knew it was time to go when a young airman made a mess of my personnel file right before a deployment and I was accused of threatening said airman. The worst part was his supervisor, instead of picking up the phone and investigating the situation, told him to file a report with the Security Forces "if he felt threatened." The incident was resolved without any negative action toward me. However, I resolved that I wouldn't let another weak airman, and equally weak supervisor, have shot at ruining a great career working with some of our most elite forces. The good part is I'm still serving now as a Contractor and am well beyond the reach of such BS.

Response by GySgt Woody Warfield made Mar 30 at 2014 9:54 AM

GySgt Woody Warfield — Sun, 30 Mar 2014 09:54:57 -0400

Shortly after being selected for Msgt, I found out I woud be receiveing orders to go back to a F-18 Squadron. Being a single parent, and knowing I would be expected to go on multiple deployments and overseas assignments, with no one to care for my sons, I knew it was time to retire. I loved being a Marine, but I loved my sons more.

Response by LT Mark Hubbard made Mar 31 at 2014 9:49 AM

LT Mark Hubbard — Mon, 31 Mar 2014 09:49:37 -0400

It really wasn't my decision. I had injured my knee and was medically discharged as a young Navy Lieutenant. I had the option to go into Public Affairs or Intelligence but my wife was pregnant with our third child and I thought it was time to move on.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2014 6:06 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 06:06:11 -0400

CW4 Beebe,

You ask a great question that contains so many considerations. After 27 years of service, I have to consider retirement and at least ensure I have the tools in place to execute when the time comes. There are many variables that I consider. First is job satisfaction/performance. Do you still enjoy going to work and do you still have the physical capability to perform the physical requirements? Are you able to perform to standard in your current and potential future position? Are you providing added value to your organization? Another consideration is family support. We are always subject to deployment or PCS. How will those actions affect your spouses career ambitions? Do you have school age children that need or desire social stability? Another consideration is your financial preparedness to separate/retire. One must consider job opportunities if a second career is is required after separation or retirement. The right job with the desired pay may require relocation. For younger troops they need to consider the potential for promotion in the military compared to the opportunities on the civilian market. These are a few of the areas I consider as I prepare for the inevitable separation/retirement and considerations I share with my Soldiers as they consider moving on.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2014 3:42 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 15:42:36 -0400

Sir,

When you're not having fun anymore.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Apr 4 at 2014 10:39 PM

COL Vincent Stoneking — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 22:39:48 -0400

When BS + PC > Moral compass.

I believe in Unity of Command. Every time there is a bad decision made by the Big Army™, I need to ask myself if I can with integrity live with my disagreement and execute. The day I can't is the day I drop my packet. So far, so good.

Response by SGM (R) Antonio Brown made Apr 24 at 2014 6:44 PM

SGM (R) Antonio Brown — Thu, 24 Apr 2014 18:44:44 -0400

When the military stops being fun and you fail to keep an open mind then it is time to leave. Because you are no longer putting forth the effort to make a difference in the lives of the Officers and Enlisted Soldiers around you.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2014 7:46 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 Apr 2014 19:46:40 -0400

Thanks to all for sharing your views.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made May 8 at 2014 8:49 AM

PO2 Rocky Kleeger — Thu, 08 May 2014 08:49:21 -0400

When big Navy told me I had been in too long

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2014 9:20 AM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 May 2014 09:20:52 -0400

I finally got tired of senior leadership saying and doing things that they couldn't logically support. Better yet, they answered in double talk and expected people to accept that answer. I once attended a briefing by a colonel from the Air
Force personnel center who was asked why we had "banked" pilots while we were drawing down in other career fields. Essentially, we had people who were trained as pilots but were filling other positions in non-flying units. The colonel answered that we didn't have too many pilots. We had a shortage of cockpits. Another time, I attended a meeting of my base's first sergeants and the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force. He got into a discussion about the Senior and Chief Master Sergeant promotions and spouted the oft-repeated statement that we needed to tell our people to study for the written test because it was so important for promotion to those ranks. I simply asked if the test was so important, why did it comprise so little of the total score ( I think it was about 12% of the possible total at that time.) I gave him an example of a person who scored a 46 (out of 100) on the written test and was promoted, while others scored much higher, but weren't selected. The Chief's answer was that I was doing a disservice to my troops if I pointed that out. It's math, Chief. I think most of them had already figured that out on their own. Those are but two examples of the many B.S. statements I encountered which pointed me to the door.

Response by SFC Justin Rooks made May 25 at 2014 12:31 PM

SFC Justin Rooks — Sun, 25 May 2014 12:31:08 -0400

I'm retiring because I didn't make the list. Along with that, I'm just getting to the point that it's just getting to be too much. On top of that, I've missed so much of my family that it's time for me to give back to them. I always said that my family would let me know when it's time to hang it up......now it's time. July 2015.

Response by LTC Bo Worley made May 25 at 2014 8:55 PM

LTC Bo Worley — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:55:58 -0400

when the fun stuff is no longer fun. and not just once, but repeatedly.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made May 30 at 2014 8:05 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Fri, 30 May 2014 20:05:30 -0400

When you hit 20, get QRBd and dropped for stupid reasons, even though your skill set and resume speak for themselves. Apparently being overweight carries more weight to the QRB than being one of only 3 branch qualified Signal officers in the state. Oh well.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made May 30 at 2014 8:06 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Fri, 30 May 2014 20:06:19 -0400

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2014 12:30 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 12:30:04 -0400

This is a question I've been struggling with of late. On the one hand, I've always felt that I would serve as long as I'm needed and will leave happily when the powers that be say it's time to go.

That being said, I think it comes down to resilience. Resilience requires something to feed back into it otherwise the well runs dry. If the well runs dry and you can't find a new source to feed it, then it's likely time to go.

I was at a retirement ceremony the other day for an officer w/40 years of service this month. He reminded me that how we ride the wave of change is the key to being successful and it gave me a little push to keep going a while longer. I believe I'll retire in a few years, maybe not if I get asked to take a Brigade position. I keep thinking it's time to go, then some young Soldier comes to me for guidance and mentoring and I think I'm not quite done yet...

As many posters said, your body will tell you a lot. If physically it's getting to be too much and your heart is drawing you elsewhere, then maybe the time has come.

Response by 1SG Juan Rivera made Aug 9 at 2014 8:55 AM

1SG Juan Rivera — Sat, 09 Aug 2014 08:55:34 -0400

SGM, I wore the uniform for 23 years (retired as MSG) and I never felt more proud to serve my country. My last assignment was Germany, I was the Acting G6 SGM, loved my job, but when you wake up in the morning and going to work does not feel like fun anymore, it is time to hang up the uniform and seek for new adventures. Is not just for the family, but sometimes it is just the way you feel about the job in general. If you ask me, I would do it again, but when it is time to move on, don't fight it, just go with it!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 17 at 2014 11:31 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 23:31:49 -0400

I got retired against my wishes at the height of the surge with 18.5 years in. I have a tattoo of an M2 Bradley on my arm. I was not a happy camper. They say I fell under a "legacy" program when they called me back 4 years later to do my follow up from TDRL. They started right up with, I hope you aren't wanting to get back on active duty. I was not a happy camper. That being said, and hurt feelings aside, (and I will never bash the Army for enforcing what is rammed down their throats from higher), I BEG you retiree candidates to retire on good terms with the military. You don't want to EVER leave with a bitter taste in your mouth. You made it. You are the elite of the elite. Not only are you a 1%'er for serving, you made it to retirement! If you get out on a bad note I PROMISE YOU, it will take a toll on your life. No one gets rich from DOD retirement. You either have to live like a grunt in the field or continue working. The VA is going to need you to do stuff and you better do what they need when they need it. God help you if you go to the bottom of some pile with the VA in the turmoil that it is going through these days. Please feel free to message if you have any other questions and you better message if you are moving to the Phoenix area. Best wishes.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Sep 6 at 2014 10:15 AM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 10:15:06 -0400

My decision was made for me. I was injured. I had some great assignments and the people I served with were the greatest people I have known. The frustration over promotions and the selections which were made added to my physical issues made me glad my career ended. I enjoy retirement, but miss the wonderful Soldiers I served with. Even though I retired, my last command, a horrible experience, did not offer a retirement ceremony or recognition for my spouse so I ended even more downtrodden. A former Commander contacted me recently and related he evalates NCOs based on my performance and the standard I set was challenging for most to reach. I finally received that retirement award in those words.

Response by SCPO Patricia Dosdall made Sep 14 at 2014 11:51 PM

SCPO Patricia Dosdall — Sun, 14 Sep 2014 23:51:56 -0400

When young military personnel started to lack personal motivation and sense of obligation. As I observed the new "norm" slowly spread among the ranks, I knew that my time was up. Military life is synonymous with discipline, dedication, sacrifice and hardship, but sadly, today's youth rarely subscribe to this code.

Response by CDR Kenneth Kaiser made Sep 22 at 2014 5:42 PM

CDR Kenneth Kaiser — Mon, 22 Sep 2014 17:42:02 -0400

When it appeared that I was surrounded by my grandchildren

Response by SMSgt Donald Polaski made May 29 at 2015 11:48 AM

SMSgt Donald Polaski — Fri, 29 May 2015 11:48:21 -0400

For me, I was working on getting ready as Top Cap was going to get me sooner than later. As I tried to get my Master's degree done, I kept coming up for deployment and computers (at least really portable ones) were not that prevalent yet. So it ended up that I was "chosen" again for a lengthy deployment - this was my moment that I felt it was time to pull the plug. Most people (retirees) that I talk to, all say that they had some sort of pivotal moment when they just knew it was time.. You tend to think about it for some time before the moment arrives. So wait for that moment.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2015 6:23 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Sep 2015 18:23:23 -0400

When I felt that I wouldn't be able to serve my country and the Army that I love to the fullest. I would rather be an honorable veteran than try to only play the part of a soldier.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 13 at 2015 7:21 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 13 Sep 2015 19:21:06 -0400

When you are completely tired and feel this is the finite part of serving.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2015 2:08 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Sep 2015 14:08:04 -0400

When branch promised me a year in a stabilized unit after 8 years mostly deployed/gone and it was a lie. I called the Commander, told him I'd be inbound and he was very happy to hear I'd be there for the deployment in 2 months. Both kids were in High School. I was done playing.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2016 8:42 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Sep 2016 20:42:50 -0400

For me it was a couple of factors: 1. DoD/DA getting more and more Regulatory 2. Seemed like everywhere you turned you heard of another way that Big Army is downsizing and separating Soldiers (ok, now that the war is over...go home) 3. The de-valuation of your job. 4. You find yourself disagreeing with new policies and proceedures. 5. Your job is no longer any FUN. 6. Your bad days start outnumbering the good ones.....Don't get me wrong...the majority my career was quite good...but your tolerance for bull@%$ goes to Zero when you have your Retirement Orders in hand...I was just very happy to be part of the 17% of all military members that actually retire from military service..because the odds are generally not in your favor...people don't look out after you like they used to...and it only takes a sneeze for you to get separated....enough of my banter....