What benefit do you miss most after exiting from Active Duty?

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 14:21:26 -0400

We all have little perks while on active duty...some are fringe benefits, some are overt all out being catered to...is there one or two benefits you miss most.
Ie. Px, Commissary, Base Accces, free medical, free chow, free room and board, free uniforms, while many of these are considered part of our pay, I always looked at it as a perk.

Or is it space available, GSA vehicles, VIP status while traveling, MWR, or just discounts in general?

Share what you miss most about serving on ACTIVE duty.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Apr 9 at 2015 2:44 PM

MSG Wade Huffman — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 14:44:26 -0400

OK.. not gonna lie here, I miss the TIME OFF! Training Holidays, DONSAs, Holidays (of course none of these applied to deployments). After returning to civilian life after over two decades of service, I realized how many days off we really had! LOL!

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Apr 9 at 2015 3:48 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 15:48:50 -0400

Commissary.

Followed by 72/96s. Followed by always knowing what I was going to wear.

Response by Sgt Jay Jones made Apr 9 at 2015 5:23 PM

Sgt Jay Jones — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 17:23:09 -0400

The benefit I miss the most is the honor and priviledge of wearing my U.S. Marine Corps uniform.

Response by SSgt Greg Hutchings made Apr 9 at 2015 5:38 PM

SSgt Greg Hutchings — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 17:38:05 -0400

Having just gone through a minor surgery this winter, I miss the medical care the most.

Response by CPL Jay Freeman made Apr 9 at 2015 5:41 PM

CPL Jay Freeman — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 17:41:20 -0400

The brother hood I had with my friends and brothers. The other stuff is nice. Like being able to rent a boat or rv trailer but most of all I miss the people and life style. Being able to take care of off duty family issues and having access to good medical care for them and my self. To bad they make it mandatory to get out and significant others don't always understand why this way of life is far better then civilian life.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2015 5:49 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 17:49:42 -0400

MSG Wade Huffman and Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS there were quite a few 72s and 96s, also the next day off after pulling all night duty.
As a Recon Marine, we did a 6 month work-work-out for float, and some of that time was spent in the field, in school or on ship, and then we get about 1 month of limited duty right before float for everyone to take leave....after deployment, we also get some down time...I treasured my time off, but do not think of the days off, rather how many days I worked straight through....lol, before getting a day off. But I whole heartedly agree, we do really value as well as treasure our days off.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2015 5:54 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 17:54:54 -0400

The only benefit I really miss is the OCONUS space A. CONUS is ok, but man, I've gone to too many places, I rather use my motorcycle and drive in CONUS.

Response by SFC Ronnie Seaton Jr made Apr 9 at 2015 5:59 PM

SFC Ronnie Seaton Jr — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 17:59:21 -0400

My friends and co workers would be the most. They are the best benefit of all.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 9 at 2015 9:25 PM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 21:25:27 -0400

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member , good question. As a retiree I still get a lot of the perks you mentioned. Bx (I live near an Air Force base), commissary, MWR, discounts.

What I miss most about active duty is taking care of my Sailors and being the best leader I knew how to be. I also miss the camaraderie.

I think I also miss the time off as much as I miss my guys. Think about it. You need to take time off to go to medical, take your kid to an appointment, whatever. You can do this as a civilian too, but it often costs you in lost pay or you have to take PTO (Paid Time Off). As active duty you also get many holidays off and a lot of weekends off, not to mention your command probably gives out 3 or 4 day special liberties (or whatever the Army may call liberty).

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Apr 9 at 2015 9:28 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 21:28:14 -0400

Not paying for ammo is up there....lol

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Apr 9 at 2015 9:43 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 21:43:30 -0400

Fuel coupons in Europe.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Apr 9 at 2015 9:56 PM

SGT Richard H. — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 21:56:52 -0400

What I miss most...hmmm....maybe having a job that meant more than money.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Apr 9 at 2015 11:01 PM

SGM Erik Marquez — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 23:01:41 -0400

There is some truth to the often touted constant and reliable paycheck .......

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Apr 9 at 2015 11:29 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 23:29:47 -0400

Waking up and putting on the uniform.

Not only did I know what I was going to wear before I went to bed, I was able to wear the uniform of the greatest Army and the greatest Nation our World has known.

Response by SPC David Hannaman made Apr 10 at 2015 8:07 AM

SPC David Hannaman — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 08:07:47 -0400

As an unmarried E-4 living in the barracks... not having any bills! My only responsibilities were to Get my butt out of bed and kick ass at my job all day long.

Response by Sgt Martin V. made Apr 10 at 2015 9:09 AM

Sgt Martin V. — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 09:09:10 -0400

Getting paid to stay in shape! Also, 72's and 96's like the other guys.
Getting paid to hang out with my friends all day.

Response by SSG Carlos Garcia made Apr 11 at 2015 4:46 PM

SSG Carlos Garcia — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 16:46:13 -0400

The ability of continuing serving and donning my Uniform in the morning.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Apr 11 at 2015 5:19 PM

PO1 Glenn Boucher — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 17:19:13 -0400

Being a cook on the ship there were plenty of perks, never waiting in line for a haircut, getting my laundry picked up, cleaned, pressed and delivered back to my rack, never waiting in line to cash a check before liberty ports, free boots and coveralls all for a few pizzas, wings, fresh baked bread and pastries.

Response by SGT Michael Touchet made Apr 11 at 2015 5:36 PM

SGT Michael Touchet — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 17:36:03 -0400

Jumping out of perfectly good good airplanes...if you consider that a benefit lol.

Response by SPC John Decker made Apr 11 at 2015 6:49 PM

SPC John Decker — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 18:49:51 -0400

The sense of duty and responsibility. The knowledge that I/we served a higher purpose. I am in construction now, and the sense is near the same. I build things that make other peoples lives better or easier or more comfortable. Not exactly the same sense I got when I was in, but close.

Response by SSG Jayne Reed made Apr 11 at 2015 7:33 PM

SSG Jayne Reed — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 19:33:06 -0400

The uniform. As a Catholic school kid, I never got used to making wardrobe decisions at the crack of dawn. While I was in, I had no normal daywear. I had uniforms and I had fabulous club outfits, nothing in between. I spent a good chunk of my buyout money on business casual.

Also, I enjoyed shooting, although I was never very good at it.

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2015 8:50 PM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Apr 2015 20:50:13 -0400

For me, it's the camaraderie and the sense of being "needed" for something. I grew quite used to being the "guru" that everyone turned to for assistance and knowledge... and now it's just the wife and pets that need me. Not that this is bad... but it's... just, less.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2015 1:52 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Apr 2015 13:52:44 -0400

I would say the Free medical. It was pretty nice.

Next would be uniforms. I knew what I was going to wear to work everyday. I didn't have to worrying about wearing ties or matching shirt with a blazer.

Response by CW2 John Brookins made Apr 12 at 2015 3:47 PM

CW2 John Brookins — Sun, 12 Apr 2015 15:47:30 -0400

I wouldn't have thought it but PT. Finding time in the civilian world is tough. Working out with the team is a great way to start a day.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 12 at 2015 4:54 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 12 Apr 2015 16:54:06 -0400

It was really the troops that gave me unmitigated enjoyment. I always had great NCOs to help me "take care of them" as they grew professionally and personally. I wanted that mentoring to have a lifetime impact as they transitioned to civilian life or pursued loftier goals in the military.

Response by SFC Douglas Davis made Apr 12 at 2015 7:52 PM

SFC Douglas Davis — Sun, 12 Apr 2015 19:52:21 -0400

The responses here are great. What perk do I miss taking a ruck off, eating part of an MRE and falling fast asleep until my turn at security. All this because my brothers next to me felt the same way.

Response by CSM Frank Graham made Apr 14 at 2015 12:07 PM

CSM Frank Graham — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 12:07:57 -0400

I miss being part of a big family. I miss being part of team and the brotherhood. The care we had for each other. On the outside nobody gives a damm about you.

Response by SCPO John Jamieson made Apr 14 at 2015 12:14 PM

SCPO John Jamieson — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 12:14:55 -0400

Health Care and SGLI

Response by PO2 Martha Bailey made Apr 14 at 2015 12:20 PM

PO2 Martha Bailey — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 12:20:02 -0400

The comradery you have with other people on active duty doesn't even come close to the relationship you get with your co-workers

Response by PO1 Aaron Baltosser made Apr 14 at 2015 12:21 PM

PO1 Aaron Baltosser — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 12:21:34 -0400

Fellowship.

Response by PO2 Kevin O'Connor made Apr 14 at 2015 1:08 PM

PO2 Kevin O'Connor — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 13:08:51 -0400

I don't know if you would call it a "benefit", but, for me. The thing I miss the most is that sense or feeling you get when you are dealing with military, or civilian, or on base services, that no matter what you will be treated with respect. Everyone on base, active dependent service employee, what every have a mature respectful way of interacting with each other that is greatly missing in the civilian world. Out here it's every one for them selves, and get out of the way I'm in a hurry.

Response by PO1 James Friedman made Apr 14 at 2015 1:26 PM

PO1 James Friedman — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 13:26:59 -0400

Dental

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made Apr 14 at 2015 1:34 PM

SSG Richard Reilly — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 13:34:56 -0400

BAH

Response by SGT Marika Waiters made Apr 14 at 2015 1:52 PM

SGT Marika Waiters — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 13:52:27 -0400

I actually missed wearing a uniform! Never having to think about what to wear every day! And I definitely missed (still do!) that comraderie (spell that right?) of the military! Civilians really... bother... (for lack of a better word) me.

Response by SSG Jerrold English made Apr 14 at 2015 1:59 PM

SSG Jerrold English — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 13:59:10 -0400

The Brotherhood we shared.

Response by SGT Scott Henderson made Apr 14 at 2015 2:04 PM

SGT Scott Henderson — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 14:04:47 -0400

Semimonthly paychecks. Getting all your pay on the first sucks. And then I only get 80% of it. At least its tax free.

Response by PO3 Erik Jensen made Apr 14 at 2015 4:38 PM

PO3 Erik Jensen — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:38:36 -0400

A lot of good things previously mentioned. Wearing the uniform, representing the country, brotherhood, the travel... but the thing I miss the most, being able to play golf in some of the most unique and awesome places inexpensively, on an E-4 budget.

Response by SrA Eric Olsen made Apr 14 at 2015 6:42 PM

SrA Eric Olsen — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 18:42:53 -0400

Medical, good meals and a paycheck.

Response by PO1 Cleve Ikaika Waiwaiole made Apr 14 at 2015 6:56 PM

PO1 Cleve Ikaika Waiwaiole — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 18:56:12 -0400

I miss taking care of my troops. Being a leader in that kind of climate / environment. Watching them progress and learn. Teaching them to be me

Response by PO2 Ryan Hansen made Apr 15 at 2015 5:19 AM

PO2 Ryan Hansen — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 05:19:47 -0400

Not paying $485 a month for the "best" healthcare my company offers and receiving shit in return. I write this from a hospital bed after using my entire tax check to pay the $3,000 deductible, because the VA couldn't schedule this surgery for another 5-7 months.

Response by GySgt Michael Harris made Apr 15 at 2015 12:20 PM

GySgt Michael Harris — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 12:20:22 -0400

As a retiree I still go on base to shop and all that. What I miss most is leading Marines, it was the best job I have ever had!

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Apr 15 at 2015 12:39 PM

1SG Harold Piet — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 12:39:44 -0400

Teamwork of a group that will have your back at a moments notice and is trained to do the Job.

Response by SPC Eric Francis made Apr 15 at 2015 12:40 PM

SPC Eric Francis — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 12:40:54 -0400

living in Germany, my friends who i served with and drank heavily with, the free clothing (i joke of course)

Response by SN Peter Stella made Apr 15 at 2015 12:54 PM

SN Peter Stella — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 12:54:14 -0400

Mid rats at NAS North Island- throw on a uniform and order omlets, burgers what ever chow down.

Response by MSG Tim Donahue, M.Ed. made Apr 15 at 2015 1:11 PM

MSG Tim Donahue, M.Ed. — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:11:15 -0400

Taking care of my soldiers and the travel - 25 countries total.

Response by PO1 Michael Rohman made Apr 15 at 2015 1:12 PM

PO1 Michael Rohman — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:12:42 -0400

Since you asked for a benefit, I would have to say the recreational gear available for moral boosting. We had a 21 foot Boston Whaler for fishing, a weight room with both a sauna and a Jacuzzi. Also we could use the boat bay to work on our vehicles!

Response by PO3 Celesta (Fox,Parks) Davis made Apr 15 at 2015 1:19 PM

PO3 Celesta (Fox,Parks) Davis — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:19:16 -0400

Definitely, the sense of community/family/brotherhood (or sisterhood). When you live on base, you've got your whole world right there. You really don't HAVE to go anywhere else. And everyone with whom you interact has something in common with you AND the next guy. Even when you live OFF base, you're all there for each other, everyone with whom you work understands where you're coming from because they're coming from the same place. The sense that "we're all in this together", and let's make the best of it. There is no feeling of community on the outside like there is on the inside. There is really no comparison.

Response by SSG Dan Cornwall made Apr 15 at 2015 1:22 PM

SSG Dan Cornwall — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:22:44 -0400

The respect of your peers and subordinates, we were one family and treated each other with respect.

Response by SSG Helmut Klick made Apr 15 at 2015 1:43 PM

SSG Helmut Klick — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:43:41 -0400

I miss the opportunity to have my wife on SBP since we got married after Retirement!

Response by PO1 Joseph Frazier made Apr 15 at 2015 1:45 PM

PO1 Joseph Frazier — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:45:04 -0400

All the above, but most importantly the Service to My Country.

Response by Sgt Michael Johnson made Apr 15 at 2015 1:57 PM

Sgt Michael Johnson — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:57:20 -0400

I could golf for $1.50 or so. Miss the base where I was allowed to hunt and trap and fish.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Apr 15 at 2015 2:09 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:09:28 -0400

Sometimes I miss the commissary and exchange but not much. My son took me when he was visiting and I remembered what I didn't like about those places. :/

Medical? Navy tried to kill me. I have far better medical now than I did in the military.

Going out to sea? Nope. Don't miss that.

I guess going to different countries.

Response by SSG Mike Angelo made Apr 15 at 2015 2:11 PM

SSG Mike Angelo — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:11:26 -0400

Riding in the bed or back of a military vehicle. In the civilian world, riding in back of a pickup truck is against the law here. Or driving with no headlights.

Here in the USA, there are many laws. I am still learning them. Military transition to civilian has its many challenges, as do the military to new recruits and dissinterested civilian parties and organizations.

Not all States are veteran friendly.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 2:17 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:17:05 -0400

Actually, it is working around comrades with integral ethics! Since I was the Security Clearance manager in the Security Forces Squadron, I came to know a lot of great soldiers! Miss that!

Response by SPC Jerry Goodman made Apr 15 at 2015 2:43 PM

SPC Jerry Goodman — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:43:58 -0400

I just miss serving my country, my ex wife talked me out of staying after eight years.

Response by SFC Dave Hopkins Jr. made Apr 15 at 2015 2:51 PM

SFC Dave Hopkins Jr. — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:51:46 -0400

I miss the golf courses, along with the other Outdoor Rec stuff. I'm close enough to a small PX and commissary. I just miss being able to stop off at the golf course to get in a quick 9 holes on the way home. Or free greens fees at the Outdoor Rec in Mannheim, FRG.

Response by SPC Ryan D. made Apr 15 at 2015 2:59 PM

SPC Ryan D. — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:59:02 -0400

These benefits are not 'perks'. Every single benefit you have while in the service is factored into (or rather out of) your pay.

While it is nice to think our government would provide free things such as medical, housing, and food to our nations military force, this simply isn't the case. Great time and effort is put into making sure as little as possible can be spent to maintain the military. This is basic budgeting.

As for actual perks, it was nice to receive discounts wherever offered, or have a place to rest my head while traveling (MWR).

Response by SFC Jerry Barker made Apr 15 at 2015 3:00 PM

SFC Jerry Barker — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:00:08 -0400

Getting to travel to new places all over the world and not having to pay for it, getting to stay there long enough to actually get to know the area, driving heavy armor and big trucks, not having to pay for the fuel in them, the adrenaline from firing the big guns, feeling the shock wave from ordinance, not having to pay for ammo but getting to shoot a lot, feeling the raw power of the power-plants that move the big stuff, the Brotherhood of KNOWING someone has my six ... man, I can keep on going, but then I'll start tearing up!
As I held on until retirement, the typical list of "benefits" you mention, I still have in large part.

Response by SGT Allison Churchill made Apr 15 at 2015 3:02 PM

SGT Allison Churchill — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:02:00 -0400

I do miss all the four-day weekends. Those were pretty great.

While I did really appreciate getting laser eye surgery, most of the medical care I received was, well, worth what I was paying for it.

It is nice not needing contacts, though. I never did get good at putting those little suckers in.

Response by CPO Jason Meier made Apr 15 at 2015 3:09 PM

CPO Jason Meier — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:09:00 -0400

All things being said, as a retiree, I miss the dental coverage most of all.

Response by SPC Adam Shaw made Apr 15 at 2015 3:14 PM

SPC Adam Shaw — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:14:15 -0400

I miss sitting in an OP calling in artillery rounds at all hours of the day and nite.

Response by PO3 Brian S. Spicer made Apr 15 at 2015 3:14 PM

PO3 Brian S. Spicer — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:14:22 -0400

I miss going to the Commissary and having base access to the bars and clubs. We should ask Congress to draft a new Bill to allow all Veterans free access to all military commissaries and bases so we can contribute and support our active duty men and women physically, mentally, and financially.

We will be strengthening our military at home and abroad which will help budget military spending and help our (American economy).

Sincerely,

Brian S. Spicer, Veteran, U.S. Navy

Response by SPC Marc Gloss made Apr 15 at 2015 3:34 PM

SPC Marc Gloss — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:34:02 -0400

I miss the sense of everyday security that the military guarantees individuals and families. Young pups that get out instead of retiring because they think civilian life is better have know idea! None, zip, zero, zilch.

Response by PO1 Scott Morton made Apr 15 at 2015 3:38 PM

PO1 Scott Morton — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:38:04 -0400

I agree with SFC Merino. I remember going all Deliverance while in the Navy Reserves with a .50 cal some wimps didn't want to fire!?

Response by PFC Dennis Burk Lintz made Apr 15 at 2015 3:54 PM

PFC Dennis Burk Lintz — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:54:23 -0400

☮ Getting a new P-38 to open my C-ration cans,...

Response by PFC Stephen Eric Serati made Apr 15 at 2015 3:58 PM

PFC Stephen Eric Serati — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:58:31 -0400

I miss the mandatory PT.

Response by PVT William Bresch made Apr 15 at 2015 4:00 PM

PVT William Bresch — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:00:38 -0400

Hospitalization. the Doctors and Nurses were always up to date, on the latest Procedures and Cures.

Response by SCPO Ken Badoian made Apr 15 at 2015 4:19 PM

SCPO Ken Badoian — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:19:44 -0400

Actually being part of the Chief Petty Officers Mess and shipmates. In the USN CPO's, SCPO'c, and MCPO's on board ship mess together (both berthing and eating, and socially). That is E7,8,and 9's. The best thing ashore is the CPO parking lot. Navy bases are usually smaller that the other services and parking is hard to find. Also head of the line for the liberty boat and our own chair in the barber shop. MMCS(SW)(SS) USN Ret.

Response by CPO Mary Watson made Apr 15 at 2015 4:20 PM

CPO Mary Watson — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:20:24 -0400

For me, the "benefit" of being military I miss the most is camaraderie. That sense of belonging and mutual respect. Even if you didn't get along great on a personal level, you worked as a team with the common goal of completing the sortie. I still wear a "uniform" working public safety, and still work with great people, but the camaraderie isn't the same.

Response by SSG Alan Pelletier made Apr 15 at 2015 4:39 PM

SSG Alan Pelletier — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:39:26 -0400

Honestly, I liked getting out of the military so much I'd rejoin just to leave again!
What a wonderful feeling.

...although civilians have zero sense of honor, integrity, or camaraderie.

Response by SGT Deanna Jackson made Apr 15 at 2015 4:47 PM

SGT Deanna Jackson — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:47:08 -0400

I miss the community. The bond between the people who you shared so many experiences with. I haven't found that on the civilian side. It sucks.

Response by PO1 Allen Y. made Apr 15 at 2015 4:48 PM

PO1 Allen Y. — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:48:51 -0400

NEX, Commissary, and above all, medical, dental and vision.

Response by PO1 Allen Y. made Apr 15 at 2015 4:49 PM

PO1 Allen Y. — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:49:10 -0400

NEX, Commissary, and above all, medical, dental and vision.

Response by SPC Gary Harders made Apr 15 at 2015 4:54 PM

SPC Gary Harders — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:54:52 -0400

The medical.

Response by CPO Paul Smith made Apr 15 at 2015 4:56 PM

CPO Paul Smith — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:56:08 -0400

I miss the camaraderie of my shipmates, base and ship access, exchange / MWR / commissary privileges.

Response by PO1 Frank Gilpatrick made Apr 15 at 2015 5:01 PM

PO1 Frank Gilpatrick — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:01:01 -0400

I was an AMS 1 Aviation structural Mechanic and what I miss the most is knowing that when something gets fixed , it gets fixed RIGHT the first time . I retired back in '89 and I've seen a lot of what the " civilians " do and how they go about doing it . Way too many short cuts .
I was Corrosion Control etc on aircraft and there was NO short cutting . It was either right the 1st time or it didn't fly , period .

I retired as a 2nd class so .......... AMS@ frank C. Gilpatrick , USN - Retired 1969-1989

Response by SPC Ken Sawyer made Apr 15 at 2015 5:01 PM

SPC Ken Sawyer — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:01:18 -0400

For me its the friends that know what the heck your talking about. Then it's the shopping the savings since i did't stay in long enough for retirement.

Response by LTC Douglas Willetts made Apr 15 at 2015 5:01 PM

LTC Douglas Willetts — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:01:33 -0400

My wife and I just bought a house. Right now we really miss the movers showing up to pack everything!

Response by SGT Michelle Saunders made Apr 15 at 2015 5:08 PM

SGT Michelle Saunders — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:08:04 -0400

People who actually have your back...

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Apr 15 at 2015 5:16 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:16:44 -0400

Regular paycheck and being deployed.

Response by SGT John Beardsley made Apr 15 at 2015 5:22 PM

SGT John Beardsley — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:22:28 -0400

I strongly {!!!} disagree that the "free medical, free chow, free room and board" were either perks or free. As you mention they were, and are, considered part of soldier's pay . . . though I also feel that that equation does not even out for the junior enlisted ranks who were and still are very underpaid.

What true perk do I miss most though? I'll go along with what a few others have mentioned, the chance to return to the range periodically to maintain familiarity and proficiency with the standard issue arms along side of my fellow soldiers.

Response by SGT Michelle Saunders made Apr 15 at 2015 5:23 PM

SGT Michelle Saunders — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:23:45 -0400

Working and knowing people who actually have your back.

Response by PO2 Rhonda Kridner made Apr 15 at 2015 5:24 PM

PO2 Rhonda Kridner — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:24:13 -0400

Exchange/Commissary

Response by PO3 Rod Arnold made Apr 15 at 2015 5:30 PM

PO3 Rod Arnold — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:30:20 -0400

Trolling off the stern gate of our LST was a blast, our Skipper was a fisherman!!

Response by PO2 Paul Hartwigsen made Apr 15 at 2015 5:38 PM

PO2 Paul Hartwigsen — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:38:55 -0400

The unique and close friendships that were forged over 50 year ago aboard the Battleship Wisconsin, and continue to this day.

Response by Cpl Ron Ortiz made Apr 15 at 2015 5:40 PM

Cpl Ron Ortiz — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:40:09 -0400

Aside from all the free ammunition, I miss the free medical. As a civilian I've had to make some hard decisions sometimes like eating versus paying a hospital bill etc....

Response by SPC Jesse Bruno made Apr 15 at 2015 5:45 PM

SPC Jesse Bruno — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:45:49 -0400

Free ammo and range time. its expensive to keep up on personal training on the outside.

Response by SSG Sean Knudsen made Apr 15 at 2015 5:51 PM

SSG Sean Knudsen — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:51:06 -0400

Free range time!

Response by SFC Angel Aponte made Apr 15 at 2015 6:03 PM

SFC Angel Aponte — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:03:19 -0400

I miss most the medical care and BAH. VA care is horrible. Atleast in Puerto Rico it is.

Response by PO2 John Stewart made Apr 15 at 2015 6:33 PM

PO2 John Stewart — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:33:00 -0400

Definitely the free medical...My current cost to cover self and family $700.00 each month...

Response by SFC Michael Peterson made Apr 15 at 2015 6:40 PM

SFC Michael Peterson — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:40:21 -0400

I really miss being punished as a group when one person screws up. No, seriously, I miss free access to a chiropractor.

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Apr 15 at 2015 6:43 PM

PO1 Todd B. — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:43:39 -0400

Miss my buddies, miss the camaraderie and knowing I can trust those around me.... and I got to shoot a lot and blow things up!

Response by SPC Austin Jones made Apr 15 at 2015 6:51 PM

SPC Austin Jones — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:51:19 -0400

What I miss the most, was being able to not only learn about other cultures, but interact with them, in an almost intimate way (working with other government's militaries, SWAT teams, Feds, that sort of thing.) The free room and board, when I could get a room to myself was awesome, and the free Lasik was awesome too.

Response by SGT Kenneth Duncan made Apr 15 at 2015 7:28 PM

SGT Kenneth Duncan — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 19:28:49 -0400

All of the fun outdoor activities. Winters in an APC in Korea. Driving a Bradley down the autobahn. Swimming rivers in Korea in that old army jeep. And especially the NBC bunker. Being gassed and then being told to take your mask off. I was so happy that I puked.

Response by SP6 Ron W. made Apr 15 at 2015 7:29 PM

SP6 Ron W. — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 19:29:11 -0400

I miss the satisfaction of doing my job as a linguist and intelligence analyst.

Response by PO1 William Bargar made Apr 15 at 2015 7:30 PM

PO1 William Bargar — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 19:30:52 -0400

I'm retired so I still have most of them......however I do miss the free travel and the TAX-FREE BAH (Housing Allowance) making a house payment with it and then being able to write off the interest on your income tax! What a deal that was........

Response by PO2 Jim Studrawa made Apr 15 at 2015 7:42 PM

PO2 Jim Studrawa — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 19:42:28 -0400

i miss being responsible, the responsibilities. a lie could get get you in deep shit. giving your word meant something. a guy you never knew could have your back, and you trusted him. does this make sense to anyone ?

Response by AN Robert Freeman made Apr 15 at 2015 7:56 PM

AN Robert Freeman — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 19:56:21 -0400

I miss the structure & attention to detail. That seems to be difficult to find in the civilian workplace. I miss working with people that actually take pride in their work/work ethic as a person. There's a lot of dead weight in a civilian work environment. (Depending on what your job is, of course).

Response by SGT Wayne Gains made Apr 15 at 2015 8:21 PM

SGT Wayne Gains — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 20:21:13 -0400

my friends

Response by SPC Samuel Wheeler made Apr 15 at 2015 8:25 PM

SPC Samuel Wheeler — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 20:25:01 -0400

all of the friends i made and the recreation facilities that were free

Response by MSgt Jamie Lyons made Apr 15 at 2015 8:49 PM

MSgt Jamie Lyons — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 20:49:35 -0400

Getting paid to live in a foreign country and the 'military family'.

Response by 1SG Jesse Perez made Apr 15 at 2015 8:55 PM

1SG Jesse Perez — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 20:55:42 -0400

The old days Living in Europe!

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Apr 15 at 2015 8:59 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 20:59:47 -0400

I simply miss the CAMARADRIE and travel. Precious, precious!!

Response by SrA Joseph Koenig made Apr 15 at 2015 10:26 PM

SrA Joseph Koenig — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:26:22 -0400

I miss access to the bases around the U.S. Would be willing to have my vehicle searched, myself searched, my identity thoroughly checked out, and anything else necessary to gain access to the base. I would like to visit bases where I was stationed 45 years ago. I don't know anyone currently in the USAF, so I can't get a sponser.

Response by SSgt Chuck Bristol made Apr 15 at 2015 10:31 PM

SSgt Chuck Bristol — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:31:54 -0400

The committment shared by all military members regardless of branch. Committment to each other, our country, our service. Best twelve years of my life. Only time I have ever felt like I belonged. Never felt like an outsider. A part of something bigger and more important than just myself.

Response by CPO Mark Wesch made Apr 15 at 2015 10:36 PM

CPO Mark Wesch — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:36:34 -0400

Convenience to a base, since retiring being close to the base is what I miss the most. Going to the exchange or commissary on the way home or stopping by the gym or lifting a cold 12oz, now we have to make plans since it's over an hour (if traffic allows) to the nearest base.

Response by PO3 Charles Brooks made Apr 15 at 2015 11:16 PM

PO3 Charles Brooks — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 23:16:11 -0400

I miss the galley. Eggs made to order with all kinds of sides, from fruit to hotdogs. And then there was surf and turf.

Response by SFC Becky Ostwald made Apr 15 at 2015 11:43 PM

SFC Becky Ostwald — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 23:43:02 -0400

I miss jumping out of airplanes, traveling, PT, and learning new jobs. The BAH and free medical also was super nice.

Response by PO1 Christine Wilds made Apr 15 at 2015 11:45 PM

PO1 Christine Wilds — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 23:45:01 -0400

I was in the Coast Guard and I miss having friends wherever I wound up stationed and no matter who came and went. That thing you share with the people by your side that makes you understand each other in a way no other person can.

Response by PO1 Kevin Goldston made Apr 16 at 2015 12:27 AM

PO1 Kevin Goldston — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 00:27:33 -0400

Standby commercial flights. I rode Boats and during off crew if planed properly you could go and see and do some pretty outstanding stuff with little or no travel expenses. And that was back when they still had those "opinions" about military personel during 'Nam.

Most benifits to me, like medical, comissary, exchange, education, credit union, dental, etc. was more a part of the benifit package. But the Standby travel, and the help always given at Special services (I think that was it), free tickets, rental equipment, Special rates. The concert tickets always went fast. Guys were getting their Private Pilots licences for little of nothing....

Then later on I understand there was special vacation get away packages to military owned retreats.

Response by A1C Daniel Drake made Apr 16 at 2015 1:15 AM

A1C Daniel Drake — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 01:15:01 -0400

To be frank, I really miss having the minute details of my life dictated by my superiors. I miss the cognitive dissonance involved in having an important job with important, real life consequences while being voluntold to clean up beer, peanut shells, and vomit for civilian parties. I miss the endless powerpoints designed to instill common sense and common decency into me and my comrades, although to be fair nothing made me want to kill myself like sitting through a suicide prevention powerpoint for the 900th time.

I miss watching our bravest, strongest, smartest, and most honorable retire, only to be replaced by hollow, sociopathic, politically oriented dirtbags, who are little better than highly polished turds.

Oh man. Good times.

Response by Sgt Chad Nelson made Apr 16 at 2015 1:43 AM

Sgt Chad Nelson — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 01:43:54 -0400

OPERATING...

Response by Sgt Chad Nelson made Apr 16 at 2015 1:44 AM

Sgt Chad Nelson — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 01:44:36 -0400

AND MORE OPERATING...

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Apr 16 at 2015 1:59 AM

PV2 Glen Lewis — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 01:59:22 -0400

Free medical and dental

Response by CPL Laron Buggs made Apr 16 at 2015 2:28 AM

CPL Laron Buggs — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 02:28:39 -0400

I missed the benefits of having really, really good friends. I was stationed in Germany and I met some good people took me and my wife and helped navigate us thru our transition. I was coming out of AIT and lost! We stay in touch til this day some 20 years later. Really good people!

Response by SCPO Lee Pradia made Apr 16 at 2015 4:18 AM

SCPO Lee Pradia — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 04:18:04 -0400

Well most of the things listed weren't free, we paid for it, most just didn't know it. What I miss the most really, is our commradairy, willingness to help and care for each other. I find that in my 8 yrs as a civilian, most lack that, even on the job, the private sector is so different.

Response by MSgt Michael Durkee made Apr 16 at 2015 4:57 AM

MSgt Michael Durkee — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 04:57:43 -0400

I do miss being able to wake up and know exactly what I'm wearing to work :)

Response by MSgt Jim Wolverton made Apr 16 at 2015 6:21 AM

MSgt Jim Wolverton — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 06:21:24 -0400

The commissary and the exchange, cheaper food and no taxes is a biggie for us. It's 2+ hrs to Bragg from where I am.

Response by MSgt Jim Wolverton made Apr 16 at 2015 6:25 AM

MSgt Jim Wolverton — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 06:25:03 -0400

I do miss the camaraderie and sense of community but honestly, I only ever felt that overseas and I came back Stateside 2 years ago. Just being AROUND a base is big for me though, I miss that dearly.

Response by Sgt Larry Gordon made Apr 16 at 2015 7:32 AM

Sgt Larry Gordon — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 07:32:52 -0400

I could say the pride in serving as a Marine and I would NOT being lying, but let's be realistic, aside from pride base housing/BAH and medical were good benefits not only for myself but for my family. I know we didn't make alot but it was good for what we needed. I didn't join for the money but I could provide for my family.

Response by SGT Jonathan Williams made Apr 16 at 2015 7:47 AM

SGT Jonathan Williams — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 07:47:02 -0400

My friends.

Response by GySgt Brian Robinson made Apr 16 at 2015 7:50 AM

GySgt Brian Robinson — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 07:50:34 -0400

Head of the line for customers in uniform at pass and ID, Pharmacy, and other places on base. I still work around Marines and even some I served with and that worked under me so I am privileged to be able to have that.

Response by SGT Jamie Gilchrist made Apr 16 at 2015 7:58 AM

SGT Jamie Gilchrist — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 07:58:53 -0400

I miss the friendship made over the years, the discipline carried around the bases, some of the training lol!! My soldiers, making sure their walking a straight line and not turning themselves into soup sandwiches...late night hang outs with the fellas, drinking the bar dry, picking up chicks on the way out the door lol man, man, man those day will forever be ingrained in me!!
ARMY LEADS THE WAY HOOAH!!

Response by SFC Andy Gordon made Apr 16 at 2015 8:17 AM

SFC Andy Gordon — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 08:17:08 -0400

There is nothing free in the military. We all pay for it in the taxes we pay. I don't miss the PX, limited inventory and everyone wearing the same clothes overseas, at least it was that way it was in Europe. I don't miss the commissary, with the 5% surcharge the prices are comparable to the grocery stores near by. I don't miss the medical as I rarely got to see the same doctor twice while I was in. Since I have been out I have had the same primary care physician for over seven years. I get much better dental care since I was out then I was in. What I miss the most is the comradery. Men and women working together for a greater goal and to serve our great nation in the places near and far, hot and cold, in day and night.

Response by SGT Dan Knispel made Apr 16 at 2015 8:48 AM

SGT Dan Knispel — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 08:48:46 -0400

The soldiers I worked with.

Response by MSG D. Layne-Sheffield made Apr 16 at 2015 8:57 AM

MSG D. Layne-Sheffield — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 08:57:24 -0400

There are several things that I miss. Being retired, I still have access to the PX/BX, commissary, etc. However, I miss the 4 day passes, 30 Days Leave, the privilege of wearing the uniform, comradery......everything!

Response by PO3 David Rudd made Apr 16 at 2015 9:29 AM

PO3 David Rudd — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:29:19 -0400

I miss the guys I served with most and the px and the chow hall it would be nice to be able to go onto a base and relive those days !!!!

Response by SGT Andrew Register made Apr 16 at 2015 9:39 AM

SGT Andrew Register — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:39:06 -0400

I miss training and mentoring young fighters.
I miss the firing ranges, live fire exercises, and mout training.
I don't miss...... well we won't get into it.

Response by SPC Nathaniel Reynolds made Apr 16 at 2015 9:49 AM

SPC Nathaniel Reynolds — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:49:04 -0400

Free ammo, getting paid to work out and stay in shape, long walks in nature, and all the great camping trips. Haha, I miss being with a group of guys I knew I could rely on when the shit hits the fan.

Response by CW2 Eric Kline made Apr 16 at 2015 9:50 AM

CW2 Eric Kline — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:50:53 -0400

working with courageous people

Response by A1C Jacque Chandler II made Apr 16 at 2015 9:57 AM

A1C Jacque Chandler II — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:57:20 -0400

Job security, free gym and shop to work on my vehicles, and the buffet style chow hall. Man I miss that food!

Response by SPC Michael King made Apr 16 at 2015 10:08 AM

SPC Michael King — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 10:08:09 -0400

Brotherhood. Being able to look at the guy next to me carrying his automatic weapon and calling him all manner of vulgarities knowing he will laugh rather than shoot me or file a EO complaint.

Response by SGM David W. Carr LOM, DMSM MP SGT made Apr 16 at 2015 10:22 AM

SGM David W. Carr LOM, DMSM MP SGT — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 10:22:35 -0400

Living in Europe

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Apr 16 at 2015 10:30 AM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 10:30:24 -0400

Getting ready for a jump.

Response by Sgt Charles Wadley made Apr 16 at 2015 10:57 AM

Sgt Charles Wadley — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 10:57:26 -0400

miss the friends.. if you had a bottle and wanted to knock back a few after a crappy day finding someone to join you wasn't hard....

Response by SFC Alan Worstenholm made Apr 16 at 2015 11:09 AM

SFC Alan Worstenholm — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 11:09:55 -0400

I miss the sense of purpose. Nothing will ever compare the the sense of purpose you feel when you are in the Military. "My only regret is that i have but one life to give for my country" Nathan Hale

Response by SSG Wally Lawver made Apr 16 at 2015 11:30 AM

SSG Wally Lawver — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 11:30:29 -0400

30 days paid leave annually, along w/federal holidays weekends etc..(when not on duty/deployed that is)..........BUT wait I work at a middle school now, Im leavin work in May wont go back till end of July,sweet:)

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 12:00 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:00:46 -0400

I miss the job and the mission the most. Aircraft maintainer for a SAR helo squadron with 2 humanitarian service medals for the tsunami in Indonesia and a typhoon in Guam was the best mission I could have asked for. I bitched about it at the time, but I don't think I'll ever get to do anything that important again.

Response by SSgt Stefanie Moore made Apr 16 at 2015 12:05 PM

SSgt Stefanie Moore — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:05:45 -0400

I miss a lot of things... I miss the leave, I miss the medical, I miss the travel, I miss the continuous training (something I thought I'd never miss), I miss the feeling of accomplishment. I think however, the thing that I miss most is the community. There's nothing like showing up to a new assignment, knowing nothing and/or no one and you already have friends. Whether it be the sponsor and their family, fellow troops, new supervisors... there's always someone there making sure that you settle in and feel welcome in your new place. Civilian world is not as accommodating. :-(

Response by PFC Steve Hagarty made Apr 16 at 2015 12:37 PM

PFC Steve Hagarty — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:37:12 -0400

I miss people buying me free drinks at bars. Getting out of jail for free. The six month all expense paid cruise to the Mediterranean visiting Spain, Italy, France etc complete with catered food, exercise equipment, personal trainers and free movies. Working with the French Foreign Legion and Royal Marines. Being able to "thump" your subordinates if they got out of line (civilians just do not appreciate how effective of a management tool it is). Harassing, cussing out and ambushing 2nd LT's at the Basic School in Quantico as part of the Aggressor Unit in the early 1970's. All of the cool things I got to do when going through Marine Recon training. Oh yeah, I miss Flame Throwers, Naval Gunfire and Air Strikes too.

I miss the free overnight camping at government installations and not having to walk a few hundred meters to take a leak. I miss owning an assault rifle without some nitwit politician trying to take it away from me. I miss the bonding that group showers and snuggling up next to another guy to keep from freezing gives (ha). Probably most of all I miss true leadership and leaders that know how to lead, motivate and get the job done.

The gold Marine Corps sticker on my rear window has gotten me out of a few traffic tickets.

For other things I miss here is a slideshow I put together for our Marine Birthday Party: http://www.slideshare.net/wolfhag/marine-birthday-slide-show

I still get back to Camp Pendleton to see my son who is stationed there with 1st Radio Battalion driving by some of the places I was stationed and trained at.

Sometimes when someone "Thanks me for my service" I thank them for buying my ammo and paying for my free Med Cruise. The look on their face is precious.

USMC 1972-75 0311

Response by SGT Craig Barnette made Apr 16 at 2015 12:51 PM

SGT Craig Barnette — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:51:48 -0400

I miss the comradery and being around the people that get it. All the Way, Airborne! H-minus!

Response by SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD made Apr 16 at 2015 1:57 PM

SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 13:57:49 -0400

Free chow, room & board, the 30 day leave, and free travel. Of course, I do miss the PX.

Response by SPC Rob Robinson made Apr 16 at 2015 2:05 PM

SPC Rob Robinson — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 14:05:03 -0400

I'm with SFC Merino, not paying for ammo is big, reloading is close.

But the thing I miss most is "I & I". If you gotta ask... Let's say it's like R&R taken to a higher level.

Response by SSgt Robert Clark made Apr 16 at 2015 2:40 PM

SSgt Robert Clark — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 14:40:58 -0400

As far as benefits, I'd say MWR and commissary.
But, there are 2 things I miss that I have never been able to find in the civilian world...knowing that what I did everyday meant something and the commaraderie. The civilian world is all about me first and is way to wrapped up in useless crap that only gets done to make management (not leadership - there is none in the civilian world) look good.
I'd rather be scrubbing toilets in the military than working the job I have in the civilian world.

Response by SPC William Anderson made Apr 16 at 2015 3:53 PM

SPC William Anderson — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 15:53:01 -0400

I miss the travel, the PX and of course the uniforms. I miss the Army in general, I was proud to be soldier.

Response by SFC Joseph Roddenberry made Apr 16 at 2015 5:13 PM

SFC Joseph Roddenberry — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 17:13:30 -0400

I don't miss the circus, but I sure do miss the clowns. I had the honor of serving with the best soldiers in the world and would do it again in less than a heartbeat. To all those that didn't or won't make it back, God speed until we meet again in the halls of Valhalla.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 6:18 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 18:18:07 -0400

30 days of paid leave.

Response by PO1 Todd Cousins made Apr 16 at 2015 9:26 PM

PO1 Todd Cousins — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 21:26:03 -0400

I miss my brothers and sisters in uniform. Reporting every morning with them, the company of those who have been through the same stuff and the chance to train and guide the newer personnel.

Response by SPC Arthur C. Sabio made Apr 17 at 2015 5:16 AM

SPC Arthur C. Sabio — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 05:16:34 -0400

I miss putting on the uniform. While on Active Duty, you never had to worry about what you were going to have to wear to work everyday. I also miss driving the Bradley. Between the HUMVEE, MRAP, and Bradley, I actually like driving the Bradley more.

Response by SGT John Wesley made Apr 17 at 2015 7:12 AM

SGT John Wesley — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 07:12:41 -0400

Camaraderie.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Apr 17 at 2015 8:06 AM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 08:06:53 -0400

Being open and honest about everything. Too much political correctness in the civilian world.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2015 8:52 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 08:52:55 -0400

my brothers and sisters. and having a job with a purpose...

Also while in Germany the traveling was amazing!

Response by SGT Angela Griffith made Apr 17 at 2015 9:29 AM

SGT Angela Griffith — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 09:29:35 -0400

Working with people who say the same thing to your face that they'd say behind our back. Teamwork.

Response by SFC Roger Senatore made Apr 17 at 2015 10:17 AM

SFC Roger Senatore — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 10:17:39 -0400

Time off!! 3 & 4 day passes, training holidays, leave, regular holidays, just because. I had way more time off BEFORE I retired from the Army!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2015 12:07 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 12:07:20 -0400

Definitely the potential for visiting places I wouldn't normally visit as a civilian or doing things (like being launched off an aircraft carrier) that you wouldn't normally get to do as a civilian.

Other misc things include 30 days paid vacation a year, getting a couple of extra days off without having to worry about making up time on your time card and base privileges

Response by CW3 Craig Linghor made Apr 17 at 2015 12:11 PM

CW3 Craig Linghor — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 12:11:50 -0400

Free personal trainer every morning:)

Response by SGT Andrew Chapman made Apr 17 at 2015 1:18 PM

SGT Andrew Chapman — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 13:18:28 -0400

I can say with out a doubt the COMRADERY!!!!

Response by PV2 Alaina Norman made Apr 17 at 2015 2:30 PM

PV2 Alaina Norman — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 14:30:22 -0400

I surprisingly occasionally miss the uniform but most of all people that watch over me and support me.

Response by TSgt David L. made Apr 17 at 2015 5:30 PM

TSgt David L. — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 17:30:38 -0400

I miss the unit cohesion/camaraderie. Tough to find in civilian life unless you have a few retirees as friends.

Response by PO1 Tom-Genie Hurst-Andrews made Apr 17 at 2015 7:02 PM

PO1 Tom-Genie Hurst-Andrews — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 19:02:32 -0400

Being able to see a family doctor with out having to be with in 40 miles of a base for prime care for myself and my family members. Plus the travel.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Apr 17 at 2015 7:07 PM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 19:07:26 -0400

I miss the free travel courtesy of a U.S. Navy ship. It was a chance to see other countries and not have to pay a dime. Yes, I worked and stood watches but it's something I consider a benefit. I think I was in 26 countries from Africa to French Rivera and everything in between. Not sure of the exact number. I had my picture taken with the Mombasa, Kenya Police Department and they took me back to the ship in their Police boat to return the favor.

Response by LCpl Mark Williams made Apr 17 at 2015 7:41 PM

LCpl Mark Williams — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 19:41:22 -0400

I would have to say all the above that was stated, plus access to the firing range and the dress blues.

Response by SGT TheChad Alfson made Apr 17 at 2015 8:33 PM

SGT TheChad Alfson — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 20:33:22 -0400

Discounted travel

Response by SSG Max Slater made Apr 17 at 2015 9:32 PM

SSG Max Slater — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 21:32:58 -0400

The people you served with

Response by SFC Arthur Tucker made Apr 17 at 2015 9:54 PM

SFC Arthur Tucker — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 21:54:32 -0400

Comradery that was established with my team mates. You do not find that in the civilian world.

Response by SPC Rudolph Peterson made Apr 17 at 2015 10:01 PM

SPC Rudolph Peterson — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 22:01:44 -0400

I really miss the PT marching I miss the uniform even tho it's up in my closet right now I miss shooting n blowing things up the great feeling of respect honor n duty the active fight training n discounts lol

Response by LCpl Delbert McIntire made Apr 18 at 2015 1:18 AM

LCpl Delbert McIntire — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 01:18:44 -0400

The travel.

Response by SGT Lee Thomsen made Apr 18 at 2015 1:52 PM

SGT Lee Thomsen — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 13:52:03 -0400

The perk I miss the most...

Working with people who are disciplined, dedicated, and not one of these panzy ass/turn you into HR/lazy sham-rods who skate by and cry when work has to get done. You know the kind that cry when you speak firmly to, the kind who's skirts are so short the bottom of their sack is showing some supervisor's fingerprints. That same guy who hears about a big project and runs to put in for vacation, calls in because his vagina hurts, or sneezes and goes to first aid to go home.

Comraderie, that is a perk I miss!

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Apr 18 at 2015 7:50 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 19:50:15 -0400

Saying I work for the Air Force. Now I'm just an average Joe, I did love putting on the uniform in the morning.. Discounts at some stores and restaurants were nice I guess, never really used healthcare as I always kept myself in shape I get paid more now, so not really missing that.

Response by CPO Michelle Jones made Apr 18 at 2015 8:41 PM

CPO Michelle Jones — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 20:41:14 -0400

I miss earning 2.5 days of paid leave per month! After retiring from military service & now working as a civilian for the federal government I realize on a whole new level what a great benefit it really is.

Response by SGT Yarimar Lewis-Burgos made Apr 18 at 2015 8:49 PM

SGT Yarimar Lewis-Burgos — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 20:49:58 -0400

Honestly, I miss the structure and the uniform. I miss PT! Its hard to get motivated to work out when you are alone. I miss the friendships you made a long the way and a job that you could truly be proud of because not everyone is cut out for it.

Response by Cpl Duy Nguyen made Apr 18 at 2015 9:23 PM

Cpl Duy Nguyen — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 21:23:14 -0400

The people.

Response by SSG Dave Rogers made Apr 19 at 2015 5:11 AM

SSG Dave Rogers — Sun, 19 Apr 2015 05:11:41 -0400

I miss being able to shop at the PX and Commissary the most.

After that it is camping, shooting, and blowing things up while getting paid...My favorite things to do in the Army was field duty and going to the range.. I loved being out of the office and in the open, and firing at targets down range, practicing movements, running courses.. (I never liked the clean up after, but the during was always fun)

Response by SSG Jay Flores made Apr 20 at 2015 1:00 AM

SSG Jay Flores — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 01:00:34 -0400

What I miss more is the commraderie, the many friends I made in the 21 years I served and the travel opportunities; I traveled to 23 countries, most of them on military hops.

Response by SrA Joshua Hagler made Apr 20 at 2015 1:17 AM

SrA Joshua Hagler — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 01:17:03 -0400

A guaranteed job. I know when I need to wake up and report, I knew the man or woman at my side were worth my time and had my back. When it came to the uniforms, we had to buy ours all the time, and the free rooms were ok, lol. I didn't like having roommates but the bass access was nice.

Response by MSG John Ada made Apr 20 at 2015 8:52 AM

MSG John Ada — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 08:52:26 -0400

What I miss the most is being part of something that had a bigger purpose. Throughout my career I saw Soldiers do the most amazing things (Deployed and while in garrison) that really impacted people. You don't get that same experience and feeling in the civilian world for the most part - at least I have not found it. That my friends is the true benefit and we are fortunate to have experienced it.

Response by CPO Michael Callegri made Apr 20 at 2015 3:36 PM

CPO Michael Callegri — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 15:36:15 -0400

I would probably have to say military housing. Not just because we never paid gas and electric, but because of the sense of community. You knew what everyone else around you were doing, not specifically, but you knew you all had the same mission. I also do miss not being close to the Commissary and Exchange. For me to go to the Commissary or Exchange I'd have to make an hour and a half trip one way, and I'm usually too busy for that right now.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Apr 22 at 2015 5:37 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 17:37:06 -0400

Medical and Dental...if it wasn't for the VA, I wouldn't have medical coverage. i have no dental at the moment.

Response by SSG Donald Gallman made Apr 23 at 2015 11:04 AM

SSG Donald Gallman — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 11:04:33 -0400

My od green brothers and sisters.

Response by SPC Christian Ziegler made Apr 24 at 2015 9:14 AM

SPC Christian Ziegler — Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:14:55 -0400

I miss the Brotherhood, that bond you get working with each other for over a year being around each other all the time, (maybe its different if your not combat arms), in the field 7 to 8 month of the year working with each other so much you know each other better than you know your real family, your buddy's wife treats you like a member of the family cause that's what it is. you would give your life for your brother without even thinking. Yes respect for rank is still there and NCO's even respect you back, because they know they can count on you. Yeah that's what I miss.

Response by CPT Ronald Scherick made Apr 29 at 2015 1:33 PM

CPT Ronald Scherick — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 13:33:10 -0400

I miss being able to practice Dentistry without worrying about dealing with insurance company and government red tape and collections. Just do the best treatment without regards to cost or overhead.

Response by Capt Vickie Adams made May 21 at 2015 3:20 PM

Capt Vickie Adams — Thu, 21 May 2015 15:20:37 -0400

I miss wearing a uniform. Made life easier. Free medical is good, but I get that from VA. I miss being in charge...my best job was my last, Commander of a Student Squadron at a Tech Training Base. I also miss housing and rations as part of my pay tax free.

Response by SSG Leigh Muckey made May 28 at 2015 2:16 PM

SSG Leigh Muckey — Thu, 28 May 2015 14:16:23 -0400

TRICARE! Health insurance on the outside can be expensive... also language pay

Response by MSgt Jim Wolverton made May 28 at 2015 2:24 PM

MSgt Jim Wolverton — Thu, 28 May 2015 14:24:55 -0400

I've been thinking about this question a lot lately. After being retired since Dec 2014, it's just now hitting me pretty hard. I love where I live and my job is alright but I miss a lot of the guys I served with and living in Germany and the opportunities that came along with that. Being near a base is high up on my list also. I miss just being around a base: the noise of aircraft taking off and the mundane things like going to the commissary, BX, and events on base. I was in the VA office yesterday for the first time and the vibe of being around so many veterans and talking to fellow retirees is something that civilians just cannot fully understand. I now fully realize how important those 24 years were in my life. Sigh.

Response by SPC Rob Robinson made May 28 at 2015 4:02 PM

SPC Rob Robinson — Thu, 28 May 2015 16:02:44 -0400

I & I

Response by PO3 Rod Arnold made Jun 5 at 2015 3:45 PM

PO3 Rod Arnold — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 15:45:52 -0400

I miss my close shipmates, being out to sea on a moonless night, and looking up at the milky way. Or looking down at the Dolphins, and Whales that would be glowing due to the phosphorescents. I'm a Plank Owner of the USS BRISTOL COUNTY LST 1198. I got to work on her for a few months before she was commissioned in 1972. Decommissioned in 1994, was sold to Morocco, and is still in service. I think I miss her the most!!!.

Response by SSgt Charles Edwards made Jun 5 at 2015 4:13 PM

SSgt Charles Edwards — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 16:13:58 -0400

I miss the satisfaction of making a difference everyday I wore the uniform.

Response by SA Harold Hansmann made Jun 5 at 2015 5:04 PM

SA Harold Hansmann — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 17:04:36 -0400

What else is there to say? The eloquent way you ladies and gents put it says it all.
It would be nice to go back to that naval base on white beach in Okinawa to get some of that beef, pork, or shrimp fried rice.
Haven't had fried rice since 1990 when I was there.

Response by SGT Jim Ramge, MBA made Jun 5 at 2015 8:45 PM

SGT Jim Ramge, MBA — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 20:45:59 -0400

Actually getting Veterans Day off, Camradrie and punctuality!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 7 at 2015 3:13 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 15:13:17 -0400

It's not an all out benefit but more of a feel good benefit. I miss being part of a continuum of proud and rich history of the military.

Response by SFC Paul Schwindeller made Jun 11 at 2015 3:05 PM

SFC Paul Schwindeller — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 15:05:35 -0400

Free medical and camaraderie

Response by PO2 Jeffery Berg made Jun 20 at 2015 10:37 PM

PO2 Jeffery Berg — Sat, 20 Jun 2015 22:37:14 -0400

Questions is what don't I miss, life basically sucks since getting out, medical problems, financial worries, etc etc etc and of course I miss all the people I met and worked with. Life sucks being out.

Response by PO2 Brad Colonna made Jul 10 at 2015 6:23 PM

PO2 Brad Colonna — Fri, 10 Jul 2015 18:23:55 -0400

Camaraderie.

Response by Sgt Sherry Taylor-Bruce made Sep 25 at 2015 2:04 PM

Sgt Sherry Taylor-Bruce — Fri, 25 Sep 2015 14:04:06 -0400

I miss going to the Base hospital and not receiving a bill.
I'm going to the VA clinic now but I didn't realize for many years that I was eligible for services. We need to educate the Veterans that fell through the cracks for decades since the 70's.

Response by SrA Joshua Hagler made Oct 8 at 2015 8:45 PM

SrA Joshua Hagler — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 20:45:24 -0400

I really miss working on my Hog and the people i work around while Crewing them

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made Jan 7 at 2016 2:18 AM

1SG Patrick Sims — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 02:18:04 -0500

What benefit do I miss after active duty---let me see---I miss being wet and muddy all the time----I miss being on my feet for days at a time without any sleep.---I miss combat rations as a steady diet--I miss helzone tablets and the shitty tasting water I had to drink---I miss people bitching at me about shit I can't change.---Oh yes---that all time favorite---I miss being shot at---It was exciting, but you can keep it----I miss going out on patrol-----I miss squatting in a water and mud filled hole, while the gooks mortared the shit out me all night. It sure was interesting----but than again, glad it ended forty five years ago.

Response by CPO Randy Francis made Jan 7 at 2016 3:45 PM

CPO Randy Francis — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 15:45:22 -0500

I miss the "personal trainer" that I had in boot camp.

Response by SPC Alex Butterfield made Jan 8 at 2016 12:07 AM

SPC Alex Butterfield — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 00:07:11 -0500

I miss a lot the brotherhood, the people who were with you in combat and you knew always had your back. Being close to other battles instead alone. Plus like someone else said the free ammo was great perk!

Response by PO2 Paul Hartwigsen made Jan 14 at 2016 2:23 PM

PO2 Paul Hartwigsen — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 14:23:51 -0500

The camaraderie of the ship’s crew and serving on the USS Wisconsin, the best battleship in the fleet. I’m still in touch with several of my shipmates, even after almost 60 years.

Response by PO2 Paul Hartwigsen made Jan 14 at 2016 2:24 PM

PO2 Paul Hartwigsen — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 14:24:25 -0500

The camaraderie of the ship’s crew and serving on the USS Wisconsin, the best battleship in the fleet. I’m still in touch with several of my shipmates, even after almost 60 years.

Response by SFC Randall Atchison made Apr 6 at 2016 11:20 AM

SFC Randall Atchison — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 11:20:16 -0400

I miss the PCS moves! I enjoyed being reassigned every 3 years or so to another part of the world and the Army footing the bill for the packers and movers!

Response by PO3 Maureen Ruane made Apr 6 at 2016 1:12 PM

PO3 Maureen Ruane — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 13:12:14 -0400

Going a few miles out to sea and receiving serious discounts on cigarettes onboard ship!

Response by SPC Ryan D. made Apr 14 at 2016 1:53 PM

SPC Ryan D. — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 13:53:19 -0400

not. a. single. one. Benefits with my current job far surpass anything I had while on active duty. I never felt like a VIP when traveling. I always felt like everything the military did was to their benefit (cost savings) and my detriment. I know this isn't always the case, because I've heard from people that had completely different experiences in the military than me, but apparently I was just really unlucky with terrible leadership following me everywhere I went.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Jul 7 at 2016 9:26 AM

SGT Dave Tracy — Thu, 07 Jul 2016 09:26:20 -0400

A 4 day weekend every month.
;-)

Response by SPC Eric Francis made Jul 7 at 2016 3:11 PM

SPC Eric Francis — Thu, 07 Jul 2016 15:11:36 -0400

My friends, being in Europe, the free Dental Care, not having to worry about paying rent or bills.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Apr 27 at 2017 10:33 AM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 10:33:21 -0400

I miss the regular paycheck, medical and dental, just being able to pay for basic living expenses. Other than my VA disability and part-time work, some days I wonder where my next dollar is coming from.

Response by Sgt Robert Ace made Apr 15 at 2018 6:44 AM

Sgt Robert Ace — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 06:44:29 -0400

The job I enjoyed and MWR....

Response by SrA James Ebersohl made Apr 6 at 2022 10:39 PM

SrA James Ebersohl — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 22:39:51 -0400

Comaraderie. We work hard and play hard together. In The civilian world too many people are trying to backstab you to get ahead. Their is very little trust in the civilian world!