Why did you leave the military?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 20:51:53 -0400

When I joined the Army in August of 1990, I did so for a few reasons:

1. I've always been VERY politically aware about what was happening in the world. I've always striven to learn the facts and not be a knee jerk reactionary.

2. It SERIOUSLY pissed me off to see that Saddam Hussein thought he could just cross a border and take whatever the f*ck he wanted.

3. If I'm honest with you, I was 22 years old and in need of direction in my life. Discipline I had, direction I was lacking.

For those three primary reasons, (of course, there are many more), I spent exactly 7 days in the DEP and shipped out to basic almost as fast as I had signed up.

I was a willing warrior! I was eager to fight for and defend our American way of life. It took me just under 3 years to figure out that my own Government didn't hold the same viewpoint.

The final straw came about 3 years into my enlistment, when the guys and I, (including my E-7 - a helluva guy!) were playing poker in the barracks one night and we started talking about the only thing everyone on post was talking about...the impending visit of Pat Schroeder (D - Colorado) who was a member of the House Armed Services Committee. She was on a tour of all the 3rd ID and was going to make recommendations to President (cough) Clinton about base closures in Germany.

To make a long story short, months later, we, the soldiers of Ferris Barracks, Germany, couldn't even fiscally afford to go on live fire exercise at Grafenwoehr because we couldn't afford the ammunition for our rifles, much less the rounds for the BFV's and the M1A1's. Previously, we had completed this training, without fail, twice a year for about 6 weeks at a time.

To me, that was the writing on the wall. If my own government wasn't going to give us the ammunition needed to train effectively, then I saw no reason to dedicate the next 25 years of my life to that way of thinking...and I got the hell out.

If you didn't serve until retirement, for what reason did you decide to ETS?

PS. Up until the time I actually applied for early release, my E-7 (poker buddy) was CONVINCED that I was going to re-up, because I was a good soldier. For the record, I was a DAMN good soldier; I entered service as an E-1 and in under 3 years made E-4. But my E-7 failed to understand the depth of my conviction on this matter - either give me the tools and training to fight, or f*ck off. I'm no ones political football.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 5 at 2014 8:46 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 05 Oct 2014 08:46:08 -0400

I left because it was time. I was over 30 years (just over), but I could have soldiered on. I decided that 30 years were enough, that made a good active duty career, and it was time to move on to a second career. Much different from your reasons, SPC Private RallyPoint Member, but we all have our reasons.

On the topic of resources ... it's not ammo, but I saw the problem of no (/inadequate) supplies in varying degrees throughout those 30 years. And as I'm still working for the Army, I still see the problem. The philosophy I learned to adopt was to soldier on and make the best of what I had.

PS: Sorry about that. I read right over your caveat about answering your post. I obviously did serve until retirement.

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Oct 5 at 2014 10:32 AM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Sun, 05 Oct 2014 10:32:07 -0400

I left at 19 years... Resignation in lieu of Court Martial.
Could I have fought the court martial? probably.
Would it have mattered? No.
My command had already made up their mind, they wanted me out. And that made it easy for me to leave. Loyalty goes both ways. By the 11th year of the war in Afghanistan I had pretty much understood it was foreign policy faux pas, but I was passing time for that retirement. The charges and my commander's willingness to support the allegations against me only clarified for me that I was in the wrong place.

Response by PO3 Shaun Taylor made Oct 5 at 2014 10:57 PM

PO3 Shaun Taylor — Sun, 05 Oct 2014 22:57:59 -0400

I left to pursue a career in entertainment.

Response by SSG Pete Fleming made Oct 6 at 2014 12:18 AM

SSG Pete Fleming — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 00:18:41 -0400

For a couple of reasons... all made sense at the time... School and a woman. The school has not 'benefited' me professionally and the woman is 'benefiting' someone else...

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2014 7:11 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 07:11:35 -0400

For me primarily a service-connected injury put me out. I was thrown from a vehicle in the field and had a cervical spine injury. Thankfully nothing too awfully bad.

I was sexually harassed by my former First Sergeant in my unit. I was basically told in no uncertain terms if I didn't sleep with him, my life would be made miserable and I would have no chance of advancement in that unit. Sadly at that time, I was 19, and rather naive about how things worked. At the time I was in, there were not very many women in the Cav. I was combat support. I was too scared to go above his head and quite frankly, being only 1 of 2 women in my whole battalion at the time, I didn't think I would the support I needed to fight it. So when I was offered the discharge I took it. I sadly have regretted that decision. Up until that point, I had enjoyed my time in the service.

Response by SPC Jack Lucas made Oct 6 at 2014 8:43 AM

SPC Jack Lucas — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 08:43:37 -0400

I ETS'd because at the time, 1998, no one was getting promoted because points were maxed out and had been for a long time. I saw 4 Soldiers get promoted from E 4 to E 5 in 3 years. Despite being promotable during from 96-98 I did not have the points. I did join the WAARNG and deployed to Iraq in 2004-2005 and again ETS'd upon my return.

Response by SFC William "Bill" Moore made Oct 6 at 2014 11:18 AM

SFC William "Bill" Moore — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 11:18:38 -0400

Well, I did serve to retirement. I did not want to retire, actually was trying to deploy with another EOD team going to Afghanistan. I had enough sense to approach Medical and ask what it would take for me to deploy and the Med Officer started laughing. Apparently, broken ankles, arms and hand, knees with ligament injury, separated shoulder and three bulging disks in my neck were enough to get me medically boarded. So, I sat quietly in recruiting for 16 months until I could retire. NOT what I wanted! However, I will say, 4 months after I had that meeting, I was moving a bomb suit and something popped in my neck. I had ruptured all three disks and was told that I should have become paralyzed when it happened, hell, the surgeon told me that he had no idea of how I made it that far without becoming paralyzed since he knew what I have done and was still doing.
Proof positive god looks out for idiots!

Response by LTJG Robert M. made Oct 6 at 2014 11:37 AM

LTJG Robert M. — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 11:37:28 -0400

Retired!!

Response by SPC James Mcneil made Oct 6 at 2014 2:32 PM

SPC James Mcneil — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 14:32:05 -0400

I was advanced from E1 to E4 in 19 months. I thought I was on fire, and I was on a fast track to sergeant. THEN I got hurt, and all of a sudden, I was a piece of crap in the eyes of the Army. I had a platoon sergeant tell me that as long as I was on profile, he would never send me to the promotion board.

After combat in '03, I had surgery. I stopped giving a crap. I was medically discharged in 2005, and I remember a 1SG tell me that he would sponsor me to the promotion board. I said, "Thanks, Top. But that's too little too late to me."

Response by SFC Boots Attaway made Oct 6 at 2014 2:36 PM

SFC Boots Attaway — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 14:36:01 -0400

I left the first time because my first wife did not want me going back to Korea. All of the years I was out I was wishing I has stayed in and I did go back in in 07. That is the same year that I divorced my first wife. The second time I left the military was because they med retired me in 13 and I sometimes wish I was still in. On the other hand I love spending my time with my new wife of 4 years.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2014 10:51 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 22:51:02 -0400

I didn't have what it took to play the game for 20 years.

I significantly disliked the corruption and favoritism. I disliked and disagreed with the union-like atmosphere and method of pay/advancement in rank, regardless of knowledge AND work ethic.

I was young and dumb, made some mistakes that were held over me, and people used those mistakes to avoid offering me additional training opportunities.

Quite honestly, I had my mind made up from the get go that I was only doing it for 4 years to get money for college and then I was getting out. Nobody bothered to try to "re-recruit" me to prove that it could have been a career rather than a temporary 4 year prison sentence, which is what it felt like at times.

In short, I sucked at it. I took the discipline, attention to detail and other traits I learned while in the service, and got the heck out of dodge. Grateful for the experience because it made me a much better civilian, but it's very obvious that i NEVER could have been successful for 20 years in the military. So I got out while I was ahead and before I did something stupid to get a dishonorable discharge.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2014 11:55 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 23:55:43 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member I am a fellow North Carolinian now myself and I got out probably before you were born in 1985. Things were getting better in the service but I was tired and got out after eleven years. I applied to many jobs before landing one in Meteorology. It took awhile to do this but was happy.

Still I did miss my brothers in arms and barometers and particularly enjoy helping people when and where I can. Things when I got in were confusing. I punched out a guy who called my dad a baby killer and the Vice Principal laughed and told me that he was proud of me.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2014 1:28 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 01:28:04 -0400

I left Active Duty and went in the reserves because I saw the writing on the wall and my career was about to go stagnant and I did not want to ride the wave anymore. I started as a KC-135 pilot, no frills, but hey it was a flying job in the worlds best Air Force. Did that for 3 and some change. Then we had a roadshow for the RPA's. We were told that we could get in with it early and that we "might" have the opportunity to transfer to another mobility platform in AMC. I decided that it seemed at the time a good breadth of service move to sort of be at the tip of spear sot to speak in the CAF or Combat Air Force.
Than once I got into the assignment they said nope, "some of you may return back to your original Aircraft." As time went on I was offered a chance to take a better RPA job. I declined in hopes that I would go back to at least the Tanker. I seemed to be put on the black list and my commander was not going to support me going back to my plane. I am not sure why, I volunteered for to deploy out of sequence I was always the last one to leave I became very competent in the mission. A few months after I declined the first was now selected to be permanent RPA pilot. They were to going move me to another MQ-1B operational unit which basically I show on record of having no upward movement in my career field. At some point that would mean I would be terminal in rank. I suppose I would have been passed over for Major like a few of UPT buds had I stayed on AD.

I enjoyed the mission, never did it for the hype. But it was time for me to move on. I am now a Cat--E reservist doing oversight for the Civil Air Patrol. A little known program that the USAF has for reservist to conduct inspections of CAP units to make sure they good stewards to congressional funds that buy their Cessnas. Nice thing about my job is that I can volunteer to augment active duty units on short bursts with MPA days. I just did one for an Intel Squadron. Trying to get into a reserve flying slot however as the clock ticks the harder it will become. If this is to be terminal career I am fine with that I can still retire and get a pension at 60.

Response by SGT Sarah Hoyt made Oct 7 at 2014 10:52 AM

SGT Sarah Hoyt — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 10:52:19 -0400

I ETS'ed after my 4 years were up for several reasons. The main one was because I was pregnant with my first daughter. My husband is a 'lifer' and we wanted our kids to have at least one parent home with them. (I am not knocking dual military parents, just saying it wouldn't have worked out for us).

Which leads into my next reason- even though I had been promoted to E-5 in just under 3 years in, I was not a very good soldier. I was too sassy for the Army. I knew my job inside and out, I took care of my Joes, but the lip on me was just too much.

Response by PO2 Paul Kirby made Oct 7 at 2014 1:41 PM

PO2 Paul Kirby — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 13:41:30 -0400

Tired of being treated as a 3rd class citizen and had no hope of advancing in a top-heavy rate - would've been stuck at E-5 for many, many years.

Response by SPC Matthew Birkinbine made Oct 7 at 2014 1:56 PM

SPC Matthew Birkinbine — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 13:56:49 -0400

I haven't left yet, but when I do, it'll be because I don't want to keep hitting retention control points every time I'm up for promotion. Also, my body is physically having a hard time maintaining "shape". If I can make E-5 though, I may consider enlisting reserve component again, just to continue my career, and try to regain momentum in progression. I want to try to go Ordnance (mechanical maintenance- either Automotive or preferably Engineer equipment) warrant.

Response by SSgt Robert Clark made Oct 7 at 2014 2:02 PM

SSgt Robert Clark — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 14:02:21 -0400

I left because I am an idiot who has destroyed his life. I wanted a more technical job, the one I had was mostly operational, but couldn't retrain due to career filed being critically manned. In 1992 congress told the DoD to downsize and I took the bait. I have never been able to find a "fit" in the civilian market and desperately wish I could turn back time.
I spent the last 21+ years focused on raising a family and didn't fully comprehend just how bad I screwed up until it was to late. Tried to join the Air NG about a year ago and of course now I am to old.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2014 2:11 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 14:11:50 -0400

I Wanted to stay in for ATLEAST 20 years, but,.....I developed Gulf War Illness. I was in the reserves, and they kicked me out cause I was taking meds for my P.T.S.D., and depression, and other medical issues relating to G.W.I. . Now I'm disabled. Apart of me died when I could not be in medicine any more. I was in civ. medicine for maybe ten years but my G.W.I. was, and is getting worse. Now I can't work at all.

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2014 4:39 PM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 16:39:44 -0400

I left the Army the first time by requesting an early Chapter discharge because the leadership was juvenile and stupid and I hated it.

After four years, I reenlisted, leaving because I had fulfilled my contract and the Army wouldn't give me my two choices for reenlisting. I discovered that I had hated the Army the first time because _I_ was juvenile and stupid... after this tour, I was glad to have been part of the Army family.

Two years later, on January 18th 1991, the morning after the air war started for Operation Desert Storm. A year later, I accepted an early out because of the drawdown in 1992.

I enlisted in the Coast Guard because I actually wanted a life skill other than jumping out of trees and eating bugs. I got out at 26 years of total service for retirement because it wasn't "fun" any more.

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Oct 7 at 2014 5:04 PM

PO3 Sherry Thornburg — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 17:04:36 -0400

I joined because I needed a new direction. I was 23 with two years of college and no prospects in a tanked economy. I was an unemployed lithographer, navy brat, and and planned to go 20 years with it. I joined with Pres. Reagan as my commander in chief.

I left the service after busting tail trying to get into a rate, tried for three and ended up back in my old civilian job, lithography. Only the prospects were nearly as bad as the rate had almost no upward mobility. My one chance to work in rate was snatched because my command considered me more valuable in a civilian billet with MWR. Yes, really. So I left at the end of my enlistment and became a civilian in fact.

Response by SSgt Nicole Biscoe made Oct 7 at 2014 6:51 PM

SSgt Nicole Biscoe — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 18:51:19 -0400

I'm getting out in a just a few months and I'm getting out because I'm transgendered and people who are trans are still not allowed to serve openly. They want us to uphold the core values but then if you're trans, you're supposed to lie about who you are. No more for me... I cannot in good conscious swear an oath while lying to myself any longer. I have a good job lined up and I'm moving forward with a company that will allow me to be myself. I will miss the comrade most of all and I only hope that some day, the military joins the rest of civilization in the 21st century.

Response by MSG Brian Allen made Oct 7 at 2014 10:51 PM

MSG Brian Allen — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 22:51:54 -0400

45 days out from transition leave - retiring after 26 years of service. Like many, I do not want to retire but recently 'saw the sign'. I've had a sterling career, served in all the right positions, awarded all the awards one can handle yet passed over for attendance at the Sergeants Major Academy twice.

My sign came in the form of another NCO whom I had known earlier in my career. A bad seed all around - toxic. Two DUIs, relieved of duties and rehabilitatively transferred to another post. Heard he had failed UA at this gaining unit - cocaine.

Ran into this NCO just after I had returned from my seventh combat deployment... and he was wearing Sergeant Major rank.

I love the Army but after you have placed your heart and soul into making something greater, placing trust in its codes, morals and values, taking care of and caring for its Soldiers.. to have something like this come before you is not only heartbreaking but crushing.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2014 11:20 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 23:20:04 -0400

I was medically disqualified for reenlistment.
I was 34 when I enlisted. After I finished Basic Training and AIT & was diagnosed with bone cancer. I managed to complete my 6 year commitment (with 2 years in the IRR) and one deployment to Afghanistan after an total knee and partial femur replacement.

Response by TSgt Paul Schmidgall made Oct 8 at 2014 3:07 AM

TSgt Paul Schmidgall — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 03:07:08 -0400

In joined the military in 1988 right out of high school.

1. I wanted to defend our country. My father served in the Vietnam my grandfathers served in WWII, and their fathers served so I felt it was my duty to my family and country. I am proud of my service and I would do it again if I had the opportunity.

2. I always wanted to go to college and we didn't have the money to go and I didn't have the grades to get a scholarship so the GI Bill factored into my decision as well.

I went in with the intention of staying for a full twenty years, but about four years into my enlistment they were starting to reduce the size of the military by offering a mandatory VSSI & SSB. Effectively they were giving people a $15,000 to $20,000 check for fifteen years of service in lieu of a full retirement. I didn't think that was a risk that I was willing to take so I decided to separate in 1994 after I finished my six years of service. I don't regret a day that I served and like I said before I would do it again if I had the opportunity.

Response by SSG Mark Payton made Oct 8 at 2014 12:12 PM

SSG Mark Payton — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 12:12:02 -0400

I left to take care of a legal issue with my daughter(9 yrs old at the time). I was told that if I left I couldn't get back in because I was flat footed. But, if I transfered I could stay. I had to move in a hurry so I left. After the issue had been resolved I went to the Colorado guard and practically begged to get back in but they said no since I was flat footed. Three yrs later, after 9/11, I got a call. The sergeant on the other end of the line said,"We see that you use to be an MP would you like to come back?" I asked, "Is this and order?" He said, "Well no." I replied, "well no." He countered with "Sergeant, I know about your disability. I wouldn't be sending you overseas." I asked, "Are you a recruiter?" he said yeas and I replied, "SO WAS I."

Response by MCPO Robert Kelley made Oct 8 at 2014 12:17 PM

MCPO Robert Kelley — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 12:17:07 -0400

I left the Coast Guard at the mandatory service limit of 30 years for enlisted personnel. It was all continuous Coast Guard service (1980-2010).

I signed up DEP while still in high school, I believed in the missions of the service at the time and was fortunate enough to participate in almost all of them beginning with my first cutter right out of boot camp and including deployments to all 7 oceans and 5 continents over my 30 year career. The missions changed somewhat during my service and the commitment to the missions by our elected officials seems to have waned and some policies seem to distract from the missions but I still feel I made a positive contribution to my country and to those young people entrusted to me as I moved up through the ranks and I feel I am a better person for the experiences (not all positive but still beneficial).

I still look at the Coast Guard and my service fondly.

Response by CPO Greg Frazho made Oct 8 at 2014 12:36 PM

CPO Greg Frazho — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 12:36:10 -0400

They wanted to send me back to the east coast, and I wanted no part of that. I was also sick of the politics and bullshit. But I do miss the camaraderie.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Oct 8 at 2014 12:55 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 12:55:13 -0400

I wore out my welcome and the Army let me go. I wasn't a bad officer, but neither was I a good one. I got things done. In fact, superior officers from the Division G1 and the Chief of Staff sent for that crazy lieutenant whenever they wanted something done. I should have gone to my immediate superiors and let them know what was going on, but didn't. No one had explained the "politics" of the chain of command to me nor did I have the common sense to figure it out for myself.

I was disappointed at the time. I thought that I wanted to make a career of it. To be honest, I would have only made matters worse. Sad...

Response by SGT Monica Tattrie made Oct 8 at 2014 3:58 PM

SGT Monica Tattrie — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 15:58:25 -0400

I decided to leave because I wanted to be a mommy and actually be home for once, I was tired of my kiddos calling my mom 'Mommy' cause I was always away. I love my Mommy and am very thankful for her!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2014 10:56 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Oct 2014 22:56:18 -0400

The first time I got out of the military I was a SSG and was due to being DA select for recruiting duty, something I did not have an interest in doing at the time and frankly was getting frustrated with moving around. Was made to sign a DCCS and barred from re-enlistment and got out honorable discharge a little early. Had a 13 year break in active service (that included almost a decade in the reserves) before I decided to come back in the military as commissioned officer for some graduate level anesthesia education.

That break in service put me way behind my peers as far as age group goes and retirement age but I don't regret my service, my time as an NCO, my time in the reserves and the educational opportunities it provided, and the close friends I made along the way and I learned a powerful lesson - that the grass is NOT always greener in the civilian world. Yes I still get frustrated by the many illogical daily things that go on in the Army but I have a calling - I love taking care of service members, family members, and retirees. I missed the active Army more than I thought I did. I plan on staying in until retirement eligible and hopefully stay on taking care of the service members through a GS job or the VA.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Oct 9 at 2014 5:42 AM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 05:42:32 -0400

Retired/HYT.

Response by SPC Charles Flay made Oct 22 at 2014 2:23 PM

SPC Charles Flay — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:23:20 -0400

It was during the Clinton era when the push was on to reduce the military. It came time for re-enlistment and I was on a weight control program. I was in the US Army Reserves at that time and decided it wasn't worth it to fight. I chose to finish my enlistment and take my Honorable discharge.

Response by MSgt Robert Kagel made Oct 22 at 2014 2:24 PM

MSgt Robert Kagel — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:24:37 -0400

Retired after 23 years. It was a normal day and I was driving to work. Nothing big was scheduled for the day, nothing bad happened, I woke up with no big thoughts in my head. About 3/4 of the way to work I just decided it was time to punch out. Went in to my office, and in a few moments of keyboard work I put my notice in to retire in 8 mos. And then I just went about my normal duty day. About an hour later, my boss came in (completely freaked out) "What the Hell Rob???" All I can do was smile. He actually put his papers in about a week or 2 later and managed to beat me out the door, lol! It was just time to move on.

Response by SFC Israel Velez-Ruiz made Oct 22 at 2014 2:25 PM

SFC Israel Velez-Ruiz — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:25:07 -0400

I retired with 24 years service with the ARMY.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 2:25 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:25:54 -0400

Enough was enough !

Response by SPC Shannon Frady made Oct 22 at 2014 2:27 PM

SPC Shannon Frady — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:27:49 -0400

Maybe would have jumped out of a few perfectly good airplanes... but my back had other plans. Still went back in the Reserves during school (full time to finish the degree) but then there were transportation and other issues. I'm also 44. Would still be great to serve though.

Response by PO1 Rod Fosback made Oct 22 at 2014 2:32 PM

PO1 Rod Fosback — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:32:30 -0400

I was part of the early separation incentive, I got out when Clinton took office, I kind of saw the writing on the wall.

Response by Cpl Jeremy Schwarz made Oct 22 at 2014 2:38 PM

Cpl Jeremy Schwarz — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:38:14 -0400

I was a military brat from 1975 to 1993 and followed in my father's footsteps and joined the Marine Corps. I had every intention of making the Marine Corps a career but I promised myself I would leave after four years if I didn't have my college degree completed or at least partially completed. In 1997, I began my college career and four years later began my career in law enforcement. I enjoyed my 22 years around the Marine Corps and will forever cherish the memories, the camaraderie and the opportunities I was able to experience. To everyone here on Rallypoint...thank you for your service!

Response by CPL Randy Feltman made Oct 22 at 2014 2:45 PM

CPL Randy Feltman — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:45:02 -0400

I was an E-4 (P). I was doing the E-7's job. I was the platoon sergeant of a C&E platoon in 1st Cav during Desert Shield/Storm. Took the MI BTN from a 69% readiness rate to a 98% rate and maintained it for the duration. When it came time for promotions my cut off was 998, same as it was for all but 1 month in my 11 years in the Army. My CO, First Sgt. And platoon leader tried to get me promoted. The general wasn't promoting anyone. So I took a civilian job and got out.

Response by SGT Gabriel G. made Oct 22 at 2014 2:45 PM

SGT Gabriel G. — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:45:55 -0400

I left because I started to gain success with my band and my back will never be the same after 8 years. I was also constantly hazed in my early career by terrible NCOs and it left a bad taste in my mouth.

Response by Sgt Michael Mcelprang made Oct 22 at 2014 2:52 PM

Sgt Michael Mcelprang — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:52:43 -0400

I was involuntarily separated from the Marine Corps. not enough time left to pick up staff by the 10 year mandate. So I was given my walking papers

Response by CMSgt Thomas Halcum made Oct 22 at 2014 2:55 PM

CMSgt Thomas Halcum — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 14:55:49 -0400

I retired after 34 years in the Air Force. would do it all over again.

Response by SN James Shaw made Oct 22 at 2014 3:01 PM

SN James Shaw — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 15:01:29 -0400

I got out back in 2002. I was engaged. Unfortunately she broke it off at the end of my last deployment, but the paperwork was already in. I later on found out, when I tried to get back in, that my rate was over manned and there was no chance of me getting back in.

Fortunately, I found my wife of 8 years now and have 2 incredibly intelligent sons (scary at times).

At times, I'm glad I got out. You see the servicemen (and women) leaking classified information, which ticks me off to no end. Classified *IS* classified. Period. Back in the 80's, you'd get shot for that crap. People die because dumbasses leak specific information, you idiot.

Also, my rate is getting dumbed down. Just when I was about to get out, EDS got a contract to "upgrade" our systems (I wouldn't call Windows NT 4.0 an upgrade). Buggy, tempermental piece of crap.

When I entered the reserves in 2003 (as a SW.. don't ask), they were running Windows 2000 SP1. This irked me because SP4 had been out for almost a year and XP had been out for almost 2 years. This left the entire network open for attack by a few major exploits. You can guess what happened a few months later (look up Slammer worm).

So, I left the reserves. I figured, if they don't give a crap about their own network, why should I? Heck, my home network is more secure than that.

I loved being an RM/IT and my field (Networking, Computers, etc), but the politics and crap and being unable to update our own damn systems really ticked me off. Let us do our FREAKIN' JOBS for cryin' out loud.

Response by SFC Tadeusz Czuprynski made Oct 22 at 2014 3:10 PM

SFC Tadeusz Czuprynski — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 15:10:21 -0400

I too serve 26 years on active duty and love it. I seen the writing on the wall as well. I found out that a toxic 1SG that I serve under was selected for SGM. This individual try everything he could to give me a re-leaf of cause, because I wouldn't play by his rules. I receive an NOCER that show conflict of interest. He rated me the same as my counter part. Both of us were Senior instructors he rated him 1 1 and me 2 2 preforming the same duties. I appealed the NCOER and won. From that day forward he try everything he can to discredit me. In the long run I won and he was transfer off the installation.

Many of us realize that we pour our blood, sweat, and tears in everything we do wearing the uniform. We lead by example. "No one is more professional than I" NCO Creed we live it. No one can take that from any of us.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 3:21 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 15:21:34 -0400

Aircrew favoritism in the command. I saw a lot of good maintainers get passed on awards and promotions, and a lot of really bad conduct of aircrewman get swept under the rug. I made E-5 in 4 years and had a feeling I would make E-3 before I made E-6. At the time I thought I would do better things with my career if I could get a college degree and come back as an officer, but life happens. Got the degree, but still working towards that other goal.

Response by 1SG Thomas Ross made Oct 22 at 2014 3:23 PM

1SG Thomas Ross — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 15:23:25 -0400

After 20 1/2 years and my last two years being Air Assault, Drill Sergeant and doing some other things it was time to give my body a break. The Army wanted me to go to CSM Academy but I turned it down. I wanted to get out while I could still walk. As it is I had numerous injuries and they are now catching with me.

Response by SGT James Marsalis made Oct 22 at 2014 3:26 PM

SGT James Marsalis — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 15:26:53 -0400

I originally joined the National Guard (Louisiana) to pay for college. After Basic and AIT, I had a much greater appreciation for soldiers and soldiering. I spent 4 years attached to the 527th Engineers in Bossier City, La as a 51R until it was changed to a Mechanized Infantry Unit. I was retrained as an 11B and was mad at myself for not doing that from the beginning. Infantry simply appealed to me much more. Our CO was a former Delta and he pulled some strings and got us the EIB course for our summer camp in '92. I made it with no bolos. That award changed my perspective yet again towards the military and I remember after getting the EIB and my E-5 at the end of summer camp (both blood awards, still don't know why we did that) I started talking to the recruiter about going active. I'd already been passed over for promotion before this due to quotas, but I didn't get bitter about it. My plans to go active changed when President Clinton was elected. I knew budgets would get slashed and I also knew that I was too much of a "nice guy" albeit a very good soldier to move up under such an administration. I transferred to an armor unit in Shreveport, La and ETS'd there as a 19D. My CO, Bn Sgt Mjr and Brigade CO all tried to get me to stay in even if it meant them losing me to the Regular Army but I told them I wasn't going to be a part of what I was convinced Mr Clinton would do to the military. In retrospect, I wish I'd stayed in. I came within a signature of joining back up after 9/11. The military loses good men and women all the time because politics play to much of a part in all parts of it. I wish for the men and women of the Armed Forces that it was not so.

Response by PV2 Charles Lagois made Oct 22 at 2014 3:30 PM

PV2 Charles Lagois — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 15:30:43 -0400

I was thrown out. I was only 25 lbs. over weight. I was BFV driver and loved it was learning the weapons system when they booted me, and it was my Plt. Sgt. that set me up for failer. they were told find the ones that were problems or trouble makers. So their solution was to get rid of the "fat" guy who wanted to be their and keep the ones who were drug users and alcoholics (several of them got busted several times for DUI) and did not want to be their. When i got out they were bringing 3rd ID back from Germany and disbanding the 24th.

Response by MSG David Bridge made Oct 22 at 2014 3:41 PM

MSG David Bridge — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 15:41:55 -0400

I retired after 26 years in the U.S. Army because my branch mangers didn't want to work with me on getting stationed near my home in Clarksville, TN. I made MSG with 13 years of service and thought I would be SGM before 20 years. After I missed my window, reasons unknown. I served several tours with the 101st ABN DIV (AASLT) in Iraq and had an opportunity to go to Okinawa, Japan the tour following my last deployment in Iraq on a MITT. I took the three year tour in Okinawa and when I went to transition back to the USA I made every attempt to get within a reasonable distance to Fort Campbell, KY. The Branch Manager promised me New Orleans and I agreed. A month later they told me that position was no longer available so I told them I would just retire if they couldn't deliver. Even though there were positions available at Fort Campbell for my MOS and rank they refused to give me an assignment there because they were told to reserve them for someone that hadn't been there before. Needless to say, I retired at 26 years even though I would have done two more if the Army had been willing to work with me on an assignment. I'm actually grateful I retired when I did because even though it took six months after retirement to start receiving VA benefits and I almost lost my house because I was trying to live just off of my Retirement check it all worked out in the long run. Wait times for VA benefits have increased so most likely I would have lost my home if I had retired now as apposed to then. Overall I had a pleasant 26 years in the military and now that I'm receiving my VA disability benefits am living well. Best of luck to all those trying to retire now.

Response by SGT Dirk Mccracken made Oct 22 at 2014 3:42 PM

SGT Dirk Mccracken — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 15:42:22 -0400

following Desert Storm the downsizing of the military with forced retirement/ETS made career NCOs back stab one another to get ahead. Treatment of the troops was deplorable to help them advance or just keep their jobs. I wasn't accepting of this behavior by my fellow NCOs. Mission First, People Always! I took care of my troops and they took care of me. When i could no longer be a barrier between them and the politicking going on i had to go. Of course a much longer story, but all the same, i left and everyday wish it had been different.

Response by SPC Erik Johnson made Oct 22 at 2014 4:04 PM

SPC Erik Johnson — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 16:04:45 -0400

Sadly for my self it was not my choice. I joined in June of 05 basic, t-school, then off to the 10th MTN at Drum. In febuary of 06 shortly after my arrival we were sent to Afghanistan. While in Afghanistan I slipped out of a foothold on the aft pilon on a ch-47D and fell. I crushed my L-5, twisted my hips, and gained nerve damage down the left side of my body. To this day I miss " the suck" and wish I could return.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 4:05 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 16:05:37 -0400

In a word, Clinton. My rate had a $20K SRB during my entire enlistment up to the point Clinton took office. A year later we had zero SRB. I PNA'd the PO2 test twice. Each time I'd improve my score, each time they'd raise the advancement level. I decided to get out at that point.

I've at times wondered whether I made a mistake but then I realize I would never of met my wife, had my 4 awesome kids, many things would have been different if I'd stayed in. I'm satisfied with my choice but I can say that the 4 years I spent in the Navy have directly influenced the following 20+ years immensely and for the better.

Response by SFC Walter Brazelton made Oct 22 at 2014 4:19 PM

SFC Walter Brazelton — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 16:19:27 -0400

SFC Walter Brazelton, Newcastle, WA
To excel in the Boeing after retiring from the Army with 21 years, one month one day. Now I have retired from the Boeing Co with 21 years.Now I am enjoying life in Newcastle, WA. Traveling to Germay, Hawaii and places in between.

Response by SFC Graig Yarbrough made Oct 22 at 2014 4:20 PM

SFC Graig Yarbrough — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 16:20:20 -0400

I had been in the Air Force during Viet Nam. I helped build Phu Cat AFB there, with the 819th Civil Engineering Squadron, 678-68. Later, I joined the army and I served as a 19EB8 tanker, back and forth from the US to Germany; 9 years in Germany all together. Those were long years. After 20, I decided to retire.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 4:52 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 16:52:28 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member SPC Tousley, you are on point regarding feeling like another pawn in the political game of our government and joining the military for direction.

I joined the Navy with my twin sister after we graduated high school. I really didn't know what to do with my life and since my dad always talked highly of the military, I thought this was a good option.

Just like you, I was a DAMN good Sailor/Airman. In under 3 years I made Petty Officer 3rd Class (E-4) as a Launch and Recovery Tech.

The first two years were the BEST two years of my enlistment. After that, it went down hill. I noticed things were starting to become too political and the freedom and fun of the "old school" military life was slowly fading. "Out with the old and in with the New" - new rules, new regulations and new restrictions, not to mention a poor quality of life and poor morale. The Navy doesn't know how to treat their people very well.

What broke the straw on the camel's back was more of a personal occurrence and issue than anything. I was a very angry and bitter woman when I left the USS Carl Vinson. There was NO WAY in HELL I'd re-enlist and go on another Westpac or be stationed on a floating city longer than I had to.

I mean, I would have probably stayed in because I loved being on the flight deck. There was nothing better than to launch aircraft off the catapults. However, things just became very bad at the end of my tour so I left.

Shortly after the events of 9/11, the military bearing flooded back into my soul and I decided to go back in the military. I decided to cross over into the Air Force and went in with many other prior service members from all branches during that time. It was fun being a prior service member and messing with the boots/pipeline students! I had a great transition into the AF and immediately fell in love with the culture and everything the Air Force had to offer.

What made me get out of the AF was due to the fact that I am a Navy vet, first and foremost, and I could not adapt to the culture and Air Force way of life.

People were getting on my DAMN nerves complaining and whining and crying and with a Navy attitude and mentality, I couldn't handle the bitching (still can't handle it today.) I had a hard time adjusting. Sometimes, I still do.

After awhile, I just got tired of it all - the politics, the constant rules and regulations and instability.

I decided to serve in another capacity as a federal employee/government civilian so that is how I still serve our FINE country today.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 4:52 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 16:52:36 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member SPC Tousley, you are on point regarding feeling like another pawn in the political game of our government and joining the military for direction.

I joined the Navy with my twin sister after we graduated high school. I really didn't know what to do with my life and since my dad always talked highly of the military, I thought this was a good option.

Just like you, I was a DAMN good Sailor/Airman. In under 3 years I made Petty Officer 3rd Class (E-4) as a Launch and Recovery Tech.

The first two years were the BEST two years of my enlistment. After that, it went down hill. I noticed things were starting to become too political and the freedom and fun of the "old school" military life was slowly fading. "Out with the old and in with the New" - new rules, new regulations and new restrictions, not to mention a poor quality of life and poor morale. The Navy doesn't know how to treat their people very well.

What broke the straw on the camel's back was more of a personal occurrence and issue than anything. I was a very angry and bitter woman when I left the USS Carl Vinson. There was NO WAY in HELL I'd re-enlist and go on another Westpac or be stationed on a floating city longer than I had to.

I mean, I would have probably stayed in because I loved being on the flight deck. There was nothing better than be launch aircraft off the catapults. However, things just became very bad at the end of my tour so I left.

Shortly after the events of 9/11, the military bearing flooded back into my soul and I decided to go back in the military. I decided to cross over into the Air Force and went in with many other prior service member from all branches during that time. It was fun being a prior service member and messing with the boots/pipeline students! I had a great transition into the AF and immediately fell in love with the culture and everything the Air Force had to offer.

What made me get out of the AF was due to the fact that I am a Navy vet, first and foremost, and I could not adapt to the culture and Air Force way of life.

People were getting on my DAMN nerves complaining and whining and crying and with a Navy attitude and mentality, I couldn't handle the bitching (still can't handle it today.) I had a hard time adjusting. Sometimes, I still do.

After awhile, I just got tired of it all - the politics, the constant rules and regulations and instability.

I decided to serve in another capacity as a federal employee/government civilian so that is how I still serve our FINE country today.

Response by CMSgt Robert Gates made Oct 22 at 2014 5:05 PM

CMSgt Robert Gates — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:05:12 -0400

In my case it was High Year Tenure (HYT). It was time to go and let someone else get my slot. I was instrumental in recommending to the Commander the person I felt was able to perform at my position. I felt good with this person being selected to go into my slot. I retired with my head held high BUT never looked back. It was time to enter into a new era. RallyPoint has given me the opportunity to reflect on past experiences with so many others who shared my experiences in their own branch of service.

Response by SFC Adam Miller made Oct 22 at 2014 5:12 PM

SFC Adam Miller — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:12:37 -0400

The military has lost its way. I could no longer identify with what it has become from what it was in 1982 when I joined. Mission accomplishment at any cost was more important than what is right and morale. We used to have a servant leadership style and now it is a blame down style while maintaining a tight control over their subordinates. Soldiers went from fellow human beings to equipment on a supply line. I still love the Army and miss aspects of the life but after 32 years it was time.

Response by LTC Marc King made Oct 22 at 2014 5:14 PM

LTC Marc King — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:14:30 -0400

Some times there is a collision of personal and professional requirements as one pursues their career goals. The service wants you to make another move for an assignment that somehow only you can fill and your family needs to stay in place long enough to accomplish their own goals like your daughter graduating from 1 high school. A decision has to made so after 23 years (and 18 moves some accompanied some not) and you know that you are at the short end of career with a lot of time ahead of you with the family. When it is time to go you know its time to go.

Response by Sgt Robert Hill made Oct 22 at 2014 5:16 PM

Sgt Robert Hill — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:16:08 -0400

I strongly had problems with flying into Iraq without so much as firing our rifles and them actually taking our ammo from us for the flight in on the C-130 at 0Dark:Thirty…. one of the three planes took on fire. Lets say one went down…. those who survived the crash (presuming any would and it's very possible)… they wouldn't have any ammo to fight when the "insurgents showed up at the crash site. There were over a dozen instances that really got under my skin.
However I was injured non-combat PT and had a few surgeries after what would equivocate to medical malpractice and eventually separated under medical.
I was under further duress having a family and given no time to work towards my separation and job hunting after 11 years of service as a Sgt with no bad paperwork and several awards and great production within my MOS and collateral duties…. I was still treated like shit by some crappy SNCOs and officers as a broke dick to be used to the last ounce meanwhile LCpl TitsMcGee could leave work almost daily for school, skip PT and fail PFTs. There are a lot of people that stay in the military because they like the job security and to abuse their power. Sadly I watched some top notch truly amazing Marine SNCOs and Officers leave long before retirement with 10-17 years in because they were sick of it. It breaks your heart but you do what you can and you keep trucking and helping your Troops.
Even with some of the shitty things that I witnessed and/or went through I still hold many of the Marines, Sailors and Soldiers deer in my heart. Many of them were truly dedicated and salt of the earth that I would trust my life with.

Response by PO2 Heath Thomas made Oct 22 at 2014 5:24 PM

PO2 Heath Thomas — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:24:20 -0400

When I joined the Navy I had an expectation of the Military shaped by Uncles in the Army and living at Camp Lejeune , NC. I knew it wasn't roses, but I expected things like Esprit de Corp, actually leadership, etc. After two years on a Man'O'War and seeing Naval traditions and what passed for leadership(the era of TQL) I left and went to the dive community totally different Navy but eventually the stupidity seeped its way in and I left

Response by TSgt Thomas Kowalski made Oct 22 at 2014 5:25 PM

TSgt Thomas Kowalski — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:25:47 -0400

As an Air Force 491 (3c0) in late 90s, after almost 14 yrs learning every conceivable high tech skill, E.g. Fiber optics, networking, client server, desktop, network architecture and COMSEC to name a few, the writing was on the wall. With the draw downs in full swing, and the likelihood of increased tempo and more deployments on the horizon, I thought it was time to focus on the young family and our long term future. Once I put my resume out there, it was as if I was a first round draft pick in the nfl. The phone never stopped ringing. I'd get a dozen calls a day easy. Civilian salaries and offers that tripled and quadrupled my then SSgt pay. It was a no brainer. I then got that fateful call from a guy with a big Fortune 500 healthcare company who was looking to round out his budding information protection team. I recognized the name immediately. It was the former captain that I dealt with daily from Scott Air Force Base. They used to call us to discuss various alerts and hacking attempts at my base, McGuire AFB. Most of the other bases he called used to give him the cold shoulder. This whole concept of information assurance / protection was in its early stages, and most viewed the alerts and calls as a nuisance. Not me, I dug the stuff and as a result always heard him out. We developed a real nice rapport over the years. Evidently it must have left a good impression. He got out and landed a lucrative job at this huge healthcare company essentially doing the same job he did when at Scott. When my resume came across his desk, he jumped on it and brought me in for an interview. I must have done well cause after interviewing with him and jus boss, I also interviewed with the CISO. Got hired on the spot. Morale of that story, never burn bridges. It didn't take long for the "I miss the Air Force blues" to settle in. Civilians were a strange bunch, and I missed the sharpness, tirelessness, selflessness, teamwork, etc., so I signed back up with the AF Reserves and gave them another 6 years of my life. I'm still with that big civilian company, it's been very lucrative for me, and I was able to retire from the reserves. Only 8 more years, and I'll start collecting that pension, social security , and retire from the civilian gig. It's been a long ride but I wouldn't change a thing. I got a son in the army now, and I see signs of him following in my footsteps and making it a career. Let's just hope he learned from my journey! The End!

Response by LTC John Mohor made Oct 22 at 2014 5:47 PM

LTC John Mohor — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:47:20 -0400

The first time in 1992 I was released from active duty after the results of the Lieutenant Retention Board were final. After four long months of complete unemployment an AGR Major rifted after Vietnam helped me get into my local reserve unit. I retired with an Army Reserve Retirement after 26 years combined active and reserve service. I miss the people not the BS. I managed to work thru the good and the bad times. I was a Company Commander during the Clinton years and the budget was just as bad as others have written. Two years on active duty as a Major from 2004-2006 with a deployment to Iraq proved to me it was worth hanging around to serve. One reduction in forces was enough for me. Making it to LTC was a pleasant surprise. I always tried to take care of my Soldiers and in turn they took care of me (Mission First, People Always). I did all I could do as an 0-5 in logistics after my earlier Artillery Cold War days so it was time. Only 11 more years and I'll receive my retirement checks!

Response by 1stSgt Tom White made Oct 22 at 2014 6:00 PM

1stSgt Tom White — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 18:00:57 -0400

After almost 32 years in, I retired!

Response by SPC Chrishalodebany J. made Oct 22 at 2014 6:18 PM

SPC Chrishalodebany J. — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 18:18:10 -0400

I left to pursue an education and career with higher education institution - University of Washington and University of California - San Diego. There are times I wished I had stayed in or find a way to reverse age..always younger.

Response by Maj Marty Wegener made Oct 22 at 2014 6:22 PM

Maj Marty Wegener — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 18:22:36 -0400

Well, let's see. I was 12 years active and 12 years reserve. I had some specific goals that I gave the USAF a chance to fulfill. When I saw those goals were not compatible with being a pilot, I chose to get out. It was scary, but I joined the reserves so I would not throw away my retirement. I am glad I got out, because most of the career military officers I served with at the same time are 52+ y/o and looking for work. Those men I refer to are amazing people. Great, capable leaders with integrity. However, the realities of a Democratic administration, hell bent on emasculating the military, is hard on ex-mil contractors and ex-mil GS employees. Getting out when I did, allowed me to establish a civilian career years ahead of the career active duty officers I served with. I am just lucky with the choices I made. Again, those officers I served with, deserve better than what they got.

Response by SrA Rex Brown made Oct 22 at 2014 6:40 PM

SrA Rex Brown — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 18:40:01 -0400

I decided to separate after 4 years due to health issues with my dad. I knew my mom was going to need as much help as I could give her. For 7 years the 2 of us took care of him during his extended illness. If he wouldn't have gotten sick I would have stayed in for a full 20 or so and retired. Before my dad got sick I was talking about changing jobs and trying something a little different than being a security specialist.

Response by SGT Anthony Wynn made Oct 22 at 2014 6:45 PM

SGT Anthony Wynn — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 18:45:25 -0400

I lost my MEB and all my 70% disability, retirement health care and everything else for being charged with a DUI off post in Alabama, demoted and discharged from the Army, then found innocent by the state Alabama (I have bad PTSD and a pre-existing and documented sleepwalking disorder). Now live in a shed on my parents property. Yay!

Currently working with an advocate to get my discharge upgraded.

Response by CPL Gregory Witham made Oct 22 at 2014 6:54 PM

CPL Gregory Witham — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 18:54:40 -0400

It was just time to move on. I met the girl that I ended up marrying.

Response by SGT Ken Hilliard made Oct 22 at 2014 7:02 PM

SGT Ken Hilliard — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 19:02:10 -0400

Disillusioned with a string of very poor units and so called leaders who were at a minimum incompetent, uncaring and undertrained. I started as a 16J (SHORAD Radar Operator) in 1984 with the the 8th ID stationed a Wackerhiem Germany (the only decent unit of my 6 year enlistment despite a real A**Hole that did everything he could do to make life rough for his soldiers as a Platoon Sgt.) Because of him, I PCSed and went to the 3rd ID at Ft. Ord. This, unbeknownst to me, started a downward spiral. The ONLY thing good that came out of this duty station was my son. I then re-enlisted after much thought, stayed in the 3rd ID, and went to Kitzingen Germany where I ran into a battalion commander fresh out of the 86nd Airbourne...who decided that his mission in life was to prove how bad the unit and it's personnel were. He felt that he had to purge the people that didn't fit his personal view of what a soldier should be. Because of this, a pervasive distrustful, self serving, and back-stabing climate permeated the unit. If he couldn't get you to screw up outright then he put pressure on you through his cronies to ETS...quite a few did just that, including me in 1990.

Now for the record, I had a good attitude, received numerous awards, graduated at the top of my class at the NCO Academy, got promoted, was great at my job to the tune of being officially recognized by the DOD as being in the top 1% of all soldiers in my MOS, was pursuing a degree. Never failed a PT test, and was doing an E6's job full time as an E5 among many other achievements. However, in the end, I simply couldn't abide my bosses being idiots that didn't care one iota about thier personnel.

Response by SSG Edward Evans made Oct 22 at 2014 8:12 PM

SSG Edward Evans — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 20:12:31 -0400

3 C-spine and 2 lumbar surgeries. Due to Lt. trying to get railroad tracks.

Response by SPC Lindsay Siegfried made Oct 22 at 2014 8:12 PM

SPC Lindsay Siegfried — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 20:12:43 -0400

It's a laundry list. The big points were the nature of the promotion system, and the horrifically bad "leadership."

Firstly, the promotion system. The first point here here is that it was nearly impossible to continue in the field I signed up for, should I be promoted. I joined to become an aircraft mechanic, and I loved my work. I had high hopes to become a technical expert. The problem here is that once you become an NCO in my MOS, you are begin to be relegated to filling out paperwork, counseling, handholding privates, or ending up in a quality control shop watching other people work. None of these things were of any interest to me, I wanted to continue to be hands on, elbow deep in the aircraft, improving my technical skills. So my choices were stagnation and SRP, or a job I didn't want.

The second point here is that the Army promotes based off of skills wholly unrelated to the job. In a technical field like aircraft maintenance, I could be so clueless I didn't know which way to turn a bolt and still be promoted. I have seen people unable to remove panels properly, or fill a tire with air, make Sergeant because they studied for the board well, were skinny, ran fast and shot fairly well. Throw in a couple of schools and you're ready to be pinned, no matter how competent you are. If you're a magnificent technician who happens to be overweight or a slow runner, you're garbage. 4/5 of the best maintainers I ever worked with, who were extremely knowledgable about flight operations, didn't, or mostly likely won't, pin on E5 because they spend their extra hours on a flight line making sure the birds are tip-top, instead of in a gym trying to get a couple extra pushups on their PT score or blowing weeks on Airborne school or Air Assault for a badge and some points.

As far as Leadership goes, it's not specific leaders for the most part. It's the entire culture of treating soldiers like children. As a grown man, married with a child on the way, on an unaccompanied tour in Korea, I once had 7 different officer walkthroughs of my barracks room in one saturday. That is not including the platoon leader/platoon sergeant/squad leader walk throughs to make sure I was squared away once the commanders started showing up. I've sat through countless hours of briefings on how to not burn down my house with christmas lights or seasonal reminders about why "[insert seasonal activity] and drinking" are dangerous. I have to provide my insurance information and do a vehicle inspection before every long weekend, and monthly. That essentially means that my unit did not trust an AIRCRAFT MECHANIC to keep his own personal vehicle from falling apart. Telling me you have complete faith in my ability to maintain a 36 million dollar helicopter, but I can't be trusted with more than 6 beers in my fridge is insulting. The kicker, the final straw, was when due to a couple of domestic violence incidences, every single married couple at Fort Campbell had to have a face to face briefing, in their own home, from their first line supervisor (E6 or above) about the channels to use in the event of a domestic violence incident.

I don't care who the hell you are, you do not get to invite yourself into my off-base housing to give me and my wife a lecture. As much as I loved my work, the total lack of respect and trust in subordinates by leaders, and the entire culture of coddling and talking things to death as a solution to problems made me feel like a child. I decided to separate in order to handle my own life, and my families, without big brother constantly giving me a two hour lecture with sign in sheet on how to wipe my own ass.

I've not regretted it once, and I've haven't been this happy in years.

Response by LTC Stephen Kubiszewski made Oct 22 at 2014 8:16 PM

LTC Stephen Kubiszewski — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 20:16:18 -0400

As with many, I had an outstanding yet demanding career leading me to retire to focus more in my family and that eventual "second" career. "Served and still serving" proved true over the following 20+ years including 8 years as a PTSD and CD counselor at Madigan Army Medical Center at Fort Lewis, state level veterans advocacy, and now as web master for PTSD Anonymous.org

Response by SSG William Patton made Oct 22 at 2014 8:30 PM

SSG William Patton — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 20:30:58 -0400

I separated on 30 Jun 70 and at that point in my life, after watching Vietnamization in action, I saw the military going in the opposite direction from the Army I joined. Discipline was lacking and morale was down the tubes, so I saw no future at that point. Less than four years later, I wanted to give the Army another go, but chose the reserves this time. My first deployment for summer training was an eye opener. I was at Ft. Chaffee, Ark. as an MP, NCO, SSG. and the state of the troops training was deplorable. We had many different units on summer training and they kept us busy with fights, drug usage, and even a dozen rapes in two weeks. We also had to deal with shootings, stabbings and the last day for a unit from Texas resulted in a riot on the parade ground where dozens of soldiers were hurt in the brawl. We had an active duty NCOIC from Ft. Hood, Tx who said this was the norm on Ft. Hood every day. He had three years to go till retirement and was getting out as soon as he could. I spent three more years in the reserves before my employment created a conflict and I did not reenlist. To this day, I regret not getting my 20 in the Army, but that is hindsight.

Response by Capt Ralph Thomas Eiff made Oct 22 at 2014 8:43 PM

Capt Ralph Thomas Eiff — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 20:43:48 -0400

I want to stay in touch with veterans who need assistance.

Response by CPL Jeremiah Grande made Oct 22 at 2014 8:51 PM

CPL Jeremiah Grande — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 20:51:35 -0400

I joined the Army in 1992, because I wanted to serve my country & found an MOS that sounded like a fit for me, as a 71M, Chaplain's Assistant. Looking back, I feel like my 4 year tour was anything but typical, from Boot Camp to my duty station at YPG. After the 3, staying in one place, and still in the part of the country I grew up, I guess you could say I put a couple roots down. I don't remember any push for reenlistment or trying to "keep me". So when my time was up, I got out, staying in Yuma, AZ. I ended up meeting my wife and raising my family here. I have my "what if's" about staying in and loved everything the Army gave me. It just didn't work out that way.

Response by PO2 Steven Erickson made Oct 22 at 2014 8:59 PM

PO2 Steven Erickson — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 20:59:07 -0400

The most fun I ever had was being a Nuke Electrician on a Fast Boat in Ronnie Ray-Gun's 600-ship Navy.

I LOVED being a nuke bubblehead... If I could be runnin' a nuke plant, punchin' holes in the water BUT going home every night, I'd still be there.

I HATED being treated like a child. I can't tell you how many times we dove the bilges with needle guns to strip 6-month old paint so we could paint it again in preparation for ComSubGroup's inspection.

Too many "Chief... why the heck are we..." followed by "Because the LT/Eng/XO/CO wants it done..."

Guess I was just worthless and weak...

Response by SPC Peter Berry made Oct 22 at 2014 9:20 PM

SPC Peter Berry — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 21:20:43 -0400

No choose Was force medically retired

Response by 1SG James Bullard made Oct 22 at 2014 9:36 PM

1SG James Bullard — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 21:36:21 -0400

You know, as a young Soldier, I was always told you will know when it is time to go. When you wake up in the morning, you do not feel like putting on the uniform and going to work, it is time to go. Well, I made that decision in Iraq back in 2007. I decided to retire when I got back to Fort Hood. Over the years I had seen a lot of changes and those changes I did not think were the best, but I was at that point where I could retire and let the younger take over. So when I came home from Iraq on R&R, I submitted my retirement and had my approval about 2 days after returning to Iraq. I returned from Iraq to Fort Hood right before Christmas of 2007 completed all required post deployment screenings and appointment's and retired. I loved it and I mess it, but I guess I was just getting old.

Response by CPT Kevin Tracy made Oct 22 at 2014 10:50 PM

CPT Kevin Tracy — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 22:50:40 -0400

I found a better opportunity in another uniformed service. I am now "Protecting, Promoting, and Advancing the health and safety of the Nation” by serving in the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service. I still get to wear a uniform and serve this great country but deployments are rare... though we are currently on alert regarding the Ebola crisis. And, I have had a wide variety of assignments. I have worked as a nurse in a Federal Prison, on an Indian Reservation and now at the Federal Building in Kansas City, MO (go Royals). Is has been the best decision I have ever made.

Response by MSG Roger Peck made Oct 22 at 2014 11:20 PM

MSG Roger Peck — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 23:20:46 -0400

Why Did you leave the military?
I was reassigned from an excellent organization (USASETAF) in Italy to be the Community Sergeant Major at Fitzsimons AMC while I waited for a class date for the academy.

Approximately some 60 days after arrival, one of our MPs brought in a 93 year old WWII veteran who was caught stealing some bandages and iodine to have me sign off on having his ID card privileges revoked. I tried to talk the PX manager into dropping charges based on his age and offered to pay, to no avail. Several days later I was notified of the academy and still pissed, made a rash decision to decline the course thus, self imposing a "bar to reenlistment" allowing me request immediate retirement, which was approved.

Looking back, one should make career decision a bit more carefully as I've still regretted that decision of 20 years ago still today.

Response by SFC Ken Owens made Oct 22 at 2014 11:47 PM

SFC Ken Owens — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 23:47:40 -0400

I left the Army to join the Marine Corps then left the Marine Corps to re-join the Army and after 21 years of service I left it all behind for you youngsters. Good Luck......

Response by MSgt Bob Hartnett made Oct 22 at 2014 11:49 PM

MSgt Bob Hartnett — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 23:49:26 -0400

Downsizing just months prior to 9-11 they / I Retired after 27 years, really did not want to go but when its your time its your time.. I had a teriffic career and feel like I acomplished everything I wanted to That included serving in two branches (Army and Air Force). To me, having being able to serve in both allowed me to do things that you could never accomplish in on or the other. The truth be told I wouldnt trade my ten years in the Army for anything it taught me how to be a soldier and i carried those skills with me through my entire time. The upside was being selected out gave me a separation bonus. Go figure, I cant stay but they pay me to leave.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Oct 23 at 2014 12:00 AM

PO2 Rocky Kleeger — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 00:00:29 -0400

Force retired. I always said I was in until they kicked me out...and there ya go

Response by PVT Jeff Clark made Oct 23 at 2014 12:24 AM

PVT Jeff Clark — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 00:24:05 -0400

I was terribly injured on duty and was discharged Honorably with a Medical Discharge/Permanently Disabled. I had one dream in life form my earliest memories of joining the Army, 82nd AB White Falcon Pathfinder and do at least a full 30 but dreams can be taken away in a blink of an eye. Now I do my best to Lobby for Active Duty and Veterans Benefits as to Honor every member of all Branches of the United States Military when my health allows me to.

Response by Sgt Daniel Lehman made Oct 23 at 2014 12:25 AM

Sgt Daniel Lehman — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 00:25:16 -0400

I had small children and I got out after 5 years in the Marine Corps in August of 2004. Luckily my time was up because that was right before a lot of my friends started getting hammered by insurgents, etc...

Along with that, as great as the Marine Corps was, I have a hard time working my butt off and making the same income as the guy sleeping on the job. I was too entrepreneurial for the Marine Corps and it was time to get out...

Response by PO3 Robert Burghdoff made Oct 23 at 2014 12:35 AM

PO3 Robert Burghdoff — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 00:35:09 -0400

I got done in 1986 active duty than did 1 and 1/2 years in reserves and got out with a freeze. Most of the reason is that I lost my first born son and my second was sick and noone in the Navy could tell me why .When I got to the peds. doc. that I knew in Michigan he put him in the hospital and had emergency surgery and saved my sons life. So., I just decided that the nav. wasn't for me .

Response by SPC Matthew Bihm made Oct 23 at 2014 12:44 AM

SPC Matthew Bihm — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 00:44:49 -0400

In response the reason I left the the military is a simple one. I was thinking about staying in and going for 20 because I love my country and the army guard , I also loved hanging out with by brothers in arms. I left simply because my father died 4 months before my ETS date and his dying request was that I leave the army national guard I discussed it with my company commander and my first sergeant both agreed that I should not deny my fathers dying request but gave me the go if I ever needed to come back.

Response by SGT John Gardner made Oct 23 at 2014 12:45 AM

SGT John Gardner — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 00:45:39 -0400

Was NG, and volunteered for a tour in Bosnia. Saw alot of stuff that would have gotten folks hurt if bullets had been flying, and lost confidence in our officers. Got home and tried to find another unit, only to be told that I could only transfer within the battalion. Would have ended up serving under the same officers and my time was up, so I left. Got my discharge the day my unit got mobilized for Iraq, and I live with the guilt everyday.

Response by SA Danny Lawson made Oct 23 at 2014 1:33 AM

SA Danny Lawson — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 01:33:32 -0400

I got out of the military because I thought I'd be better off as a civilian, boy was I ever wrong and trying to get back in was just as difficult, worst mistake I ever made, 11 months in the Navy, not proud of that at all, if I did my 1ST 3 at least I'd be better off!

Response by SFC Jim Hunter made Oct 23 at 2014 2:28 AM

SFC Jim Hunter — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 02:28:05 -0400

After 19 years as a SFC, and no hope of making MSG, my heart was just was not in it. I also caught flack from my civilian employer about 2 annual trainings in a calendar year. Actually, it was pretty good timing. I didn't want to work the winter olympics which was coming up and I was already tagged for it. While I felt guilty about not going over to Desert Storm, I did not feel that way about Iraq and Afghanistan.

Response by 1SG Jeff Casper made Oct 23 at 2014 4:31 AM

1SG Jeff Casper — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 04:31:59 -0400

Why did I leave the military???? Too easy..... Not my choice. I was always pushing to stay in and get my 20 year letter, however, the DOD saw fit that because I had undergone numerous spinal fusions and revisions that here was no place for a broke down First Sergeant. Put it this way, everyone know that once the MEB process is initiated, a SM can easy anticipate anywhere from 12 - 18 months of playing the waiting game. However, I'm quite sure that when the DOA noticed that I was sitting at 17 years and 8 months, that I was approaching the 18 year sanctionary and instead of little the clock tick down and let me cross that threshold, my entire MEB packet took less than 6 weeks from the date of physical to the PEBLO calling me in to her office to sign the MEB results. Of course, since I made it a primary concern of mine to check and verify everything and also to plan ahead for my family, I rejected I know 3 different offers. I knew in my heart that I would never be able to work again so I automatically went into self sustaining mode and kept focusing on the number of days before sanctionary caught up with me. To make a long story short, I received a letter from the DOA, informing me that I had exhausted all appeals that were available to me concerning my MEB results. I had never located any reference FM or AR that actually stated that a SM had a total of "X" number of appeals available. But in this letter, I was told, whether I signed the current MEB results or not, they would be processed effective the deadline mentioned in the MEB and if I insisted on appealing once again that my entire packet would be "carefully scrutinized" for errors and missing information. So of course I asked for clarification from the PEBLO and was told (paraphrasing here) sign the next offer and go quietly and receive my disability pay or maybe not receive as much as previously stated. Yeah, I know. messed up. So anyway, effective 21 Oct 2010, which is my medically retirement date, my time in service was 17 years, 10 months, and 24 days. So to answer the question, I got out of the military because I was told to. I'd still be in today if they Army would've let me. I made the rank of First Sergeant in just 16 years, and was getting ready to be board for E-9. What is even more disgraceful to me, my family, and my career. There are medically retired SM's with 15 years that receive both retirement and VA disability. But seeing how an anti-grandfathering clause was put into the regulation governing 15 year (and possibly even 12 year) retirements, I (and thousands of other senior NCO's and Officers) can not double dip.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Oct 23 at 2014 7:31 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 07:31:14 -0400

Long story short, wasn't fond of the lies, hypocrisy and discrimination. If you can't trust your senior enlisted and officers then you're in a bad situation. The final straw was when the squadron gunny and the XO lied to the barracks. I told the story on a previous post.

Response by CW3 Guy Snodgrass made Oct 23 at 2014 7:45 AM

CW3 Guy Snodgrass — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 07:45:43 -0400

I feel I had a great career and retired after almost 25 years. I miss the troops and the "old" Army. To say that I miss "today's Army" would be a lie. We don't take care of our servicemen and women the way we used to.

Response by PO1 Raymond Garcia made Oct 23 at 2014 7:55 AM

PO1 Raymond Garcia — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 07:55:50 -0400

The service is best when people follow honor duty and purpose. The politics of self service undermine the nobility of service. I enjoyed the time spent with my Marine brothers great group of people.

Response by SSG Terry Groves Jr made Oct 23 at 2014 8:01 AM

SSG Terry Groves Jr — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 08:01:12 -0400

I left due to having a heart attack and being forced out.

Response by LTC Edward Ledford made Oct 23 at 2014 9:03 AM

LTC Edward Ledford — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 09:03:54 -0400

I left the Army only because I wasn't going to finally make Colonel, and those peers of mine who were still around were either moving on up the ladder or, as well, retiring for a next career (after not making Colonel). Would have loved to have stayed longer, but if I was going to have the opportunity for a second career, it was time. No regrets--I never had a battalion command, so O-6 was a long, long shot anyway. But, hey, you never know. Once I hit the kevlar ceiling, at 24-years, I was glad to move on to the next thing in life.

Response by PO1 Jeff Pike made Oct 23 at 2014 9:17 AM

PO1 Jeff Pike — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 09:17:17 -0400

12 years in deployed on an aircraft carrier to Desert Storm I was asked to lead a team to facilitate a change of homeport, packed my seabag and flew back to Washington state 2 months before scheduled return. I thought I would surprise my wife and daughter who was about 5. Totally surprised the wife and went to grandma's house to pick up daughter. Called ahead to make sure my daughter answered the door. Knocked at the door, she answered, looked at me funny and asked, "Who are you?". That hurt. A year or so later, I had been passed over for E6 3 times despite scoring in the top 5%. Did not like where the then "President" would most likely lead the country and especially the military. Then the Navy came out with an 'early retirement' program that would let me out 9 months early and pay me a severance. OK.....that works for me. Made first increment on last advancement test and was promoted to E6 the day before my discharge. See, even a blind dog finds a bone now and then. Have since built a moderately successful life, daughter now works for me as my office manager and is about to make me a grandpa. Life is good.

Response by SPC Rodney Simmons made Oct 23 at 2014 9:29 AM

SPC Rodney Simmons — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 09:29:26 -0400

I was young and missing family. I really thought I was missing something back in the USA..I was wrong can admit that. I have wished several times I had stayed in Germany.

Response by SFC Cynthia Palmer made Oct 23 at 2014 9:50 AM

SFC Cynthia Palmer — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 09:50:15 -0400

i got out after my commander pulled and aimed his weapon at me. the resulting investigation concluded that "he was just joking." joking or not, i'm out. because of that and other incidents, i am now medically retired with ptsd/mst, 100% and considered unemployable. work is too stressful for me. i've been saying that for years. lol

Response by SPC Calvin Alexander made Oct 23 at 2014 10:45 AM

SPC Calvin Alexander — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 10:45:16 -0400

the cut of sore was 998, you can be a super trooper, and still will not get that.

Response by CPT Jim Davis made Oct 23 at 2014 10:57 AM

CPT Jim Davis — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 10:57:25 -0400

For me, back in the 70s, I got out because I didn't like the way "Advancement through politics" was shaping up. My nose wasn't that brown.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Oct 23 at 2014 11:42 AM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 11:42:20 -0400

I was in the Army Reserve in Germany. During an out processing medical I was found with a collapsed disk in my back and a screwed up left shoulder from the deployment. I'd also didn't see eye to eye with the unit CDR. Either he was going or it was me. I was not going to let the unit see a problem in the leadership, so I went to the IRR. It took me two and a half years to get my business back on its feet after the deployment. At that time the 7th ARCOM was changing, I could also see my business couldn't handle another deployment and I would have had to get a profile because of my shoulder as I could no longer do pushup. I'd always told myself if I ever came to the point I needed a profile to stay in, well it was time to get out. Plus I could see my business couldn't handle another deployment, so it was time. I missed it, but life goes on.

In my spare time I've now written a couple books, but no plans of quitting my day job. If anyone's interested: http://beslagsmed.wix.com/mikelwdawson

Response by PO2 Gerry Tandberg made Oct 23 at 2014 12:06 PM

PO2 Gerry Tandberg — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 12:06:41 -0400

I was an E5 and 21 years old when my enlistment obligation was over. I’d been made several promises regarding enlistment bonus, additional schooling, duty stations, etc., to entice me into re-enlisting. However, as much as I liked the military and the people I worked with, I simply could not see myself as a “lifer”, getting married, and knowing it would be a fight to keep my marriage going throughout numerous deployments. Politically, I was a “babe-in-the-woods” when it came to policy, and had only begun to understand that a nations defense forces were at the mercy of the integrity, or lack thereof, it’s leaders. Up until then I believed “the USA right or wrong”, but my world was turned upside down when my friends began to die in Vietnam. It became increasingly more apparent politicians rather then by our very capable Generals and Admirals and those on the ground who understood the advocacy were directing this non-declared war.
After I separated from the military I went back to school and was working as an Engineering Aid for a large construction company when I was approach by the Navy to join the reserves. By then I actually missed military life and agreed to re-enlist if I got the right school and drew flight-skins in a VP squadron.
I enjoyed the duties of an FCO and the company of my shipmates and flight crew, but I was dismay at what was happening under the new CNO regarding changes made to females in combat and aboard ship. It seemed like a stupid decision to have females aboard a ship where 97% or more were males aged 20-something with raging hormones. To me it was a tinderbox waiting on an ignition source. That’s when it was abundantly clear our leadership was cow towing to politics.
I love my country but was dismayed at liberal politics that had increasingly been shaping foreign policy. Getting involved in wars where it was apparent we had no intention to win was commonplace, and I wanted to know why. Now after 50 years as a student of both Bible and secular history I’ve got some of those questions answered.
I have since attended the first ever reunion of my Navy ATRON now designated a VFA flying Super Hornets. I’ve been on two dependents day cruises as a civilian aboard the new generation of super carriers (nuke boats), and toured the very latest CVN in the fleet. We’ve got the best-equipped military in the world (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard). But the concern regarding political influences putting military personnel in harms way under questionable and unnecessarily reasons haunts me. My nephew, a highly decorated retired Senior Chief (E8 - three tours w/1st Marine’s Divison in Iraq), shares my concerns.
Additionally, I’ve been involved and support Wounded Warriors in a variety of way, including donating my time and finances to helping both men and woman who suffering the physical and emotional wounds of combat adjust to civilian life.
All to say, I can voice my opinion as a civilian much more effectively than if I’d remained in service. Therefore, I did the right thing by not “re-enlisting”.

Response by CW4 Dirk Saar made Oct 23 at 2014 12:57 PM

CW4 Dirk Saar — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 12:57:06 -0400

Hmmm... (1) I had no desire to be separated from my family anymore and staying in the Army would have required just that; (2) the prospect of maybe making CW5 just did not interest me enough to stay; and (3) although I enjoyed being a warrant officer, there were things I wanted to accomplish that were just not possible in the warrant officer rank structure.

Response by MSgt Eliot Lugo-Hernandez made Oct 23 at 2014 1:05 PM

MSgt Eliot Lugo-Hernandez — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 13:05:38 -0400

I left the military when I went to Pope AFB, North Carolina. The attitude of the military of the Army and Air Force personnel was, generally speaking, pathetic. People had a "I don't care" attitude. My commander never went into the flightline. Some officers did not care about Quality Assurance minor failures. The mission was so important that it seems no one care about the uniform and about AFIs. The period of 2 years I spent there it was the worse period in my military career. I did not even want a retirement ceremony.

I also believe that God sent me there so I will be forced to get out because He had better plans for me. And He did!

Response by SPC Thomas Webb made Oct 23 at 2014 1:48 PM

SPC Thomas Webb — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 13:48:27 -0400

I got out simply because the army didn't want me. The RECRUITERS wanted me, whoo-boy did they! But from day 1 in basic, they wanted me out. I didn't fit the physical format for a soldier, I was (gasp!) 12 pounds overweight. For FOUR years I fought with this. Lose the weight, gain some back, go on the fat-boy program, keep it off for a while... Ya get tha gist?

And the after Desert Storm, The Drawdown. My company commander had me weigh in and tape-test as often as possible after PT, looking for that one pound that would put me on the program again too soon and therefore make me eligible for chaptering out. After I was reassigned a different post, lost my work out partner and the motivation of an excellent Master Sergeant (Ghoulson, I'll never forget him), she got me. I was a pound or two over, and that's all she wrote. Nuthin left to do but type the paperwork up.

The army took me in, made me a soldier, and then kicked me out as quickly as they could. And then the VA doesn't understand why I've had trouble adjusting ever since. They say you have to have had seen combat or some other traumatic experience to get the label and diagnosis of PTSD... How about the trauma of being kicked the hell out and having your life turned upside down and having your family on the street over something as inconsequential as a couple of pounds? When I was just as fit as anyone else in the company, passed my pfts, ran circles around some of my fellow soldiers...

It's been 18 years of ups and downs in my life, but I still have trouble coping in the real world. I'm unemployed, haven't held a full time job since 2001. I've been in and out of mental health treatment, went to school under the VRAP program, and I'm still homeless and jobless.

Response by SSG Ronald Rollins made Oct 23 at 2014 2:46 PM

SSG Ronald Rollins — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 14:46:47 -0400

I was forced to retire by a Toxic commander and a spineless 1SG. I made a mistake and paid for it 2 years earlier. But my commander found out about it and just hounded all I knew about it. It got so bad i just had to go. I retired in 2012. I was so glad to get out. Everywhere I was stationed in the army there was always an incompetent leader, toxic leader, or just plain sadistic. I got kicked out of a unit because the leadership had rounds with names of people in the unit on it. They talked of how they want to take them out in the field and find them in a week. The 1SG would have a soldier brought in and show the round to them a laugh. I went to the CSM and things got bad after that for the entire unit. I seen soldiers scared and crying.

Response by PFC Andrew Brewton made Oct 23 at 2014 2:47 PM

PFC Andrew Brewton — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 14:47:09 -0400

Got out in 04 after a year deployed to Iraq. the main reason I got out was because of the Double Standard and the do has I say but not has I do mentality that at the time was rampant in the military. I say this not to make anyone mad or angry but it is my honest opinion.

Response by SPC Chelsea Fernandez made Oct 23 at 2014 3:38 PM

SPC Chelsea Fernandez — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 15:38:05 -0400

I been a Warrior Princess on active duty for 4 years and then when Guard. I then realized that the Guard sucks and I would have to wait for a spot AND then compete with the rest of the 92A for a promotion in my state.

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Oct 23 at 2014 4:27 PM

SSG Maurice P. — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 16:27:01 -0400

retired i was 57

Response by PO1 Douglas Goodwin made Oct 23 at 2014 8:44 PM

PO1 Douglas Goodwin — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 20:44:48 -0400

I was Medically retired [against my will ] I had 10 years in the Navy in a closed rate and still made E-6 in 7 years and had just passed my E-7 test and had to have my 5th knee operation it didn't work and in 30 days I was history found out later I had been selected for Chief I was mad for a long time but I got over it especially when I found out that being under the old system I make more this way then if I had done 20 years but I had my sights on going warrant now I will never know

Response by PO1 Edward Perry made Oct 23 at 2014 10:42 PM

PO1 Edward Perry — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 22:42:18 -0400

loved my career but loved my family more. after 4 years at sea finally made it to shore duty just to be told i was going back to sea after 1 year.

Response by PO2 Richard Keeler made Oct 24 at 2014 1:15 AM

PO2 Richard Keeler — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 01:15:18 -0400

Where do I begin? Was it the officer who denied my eligibility take the advancement test because I had the wrong dates and didn't sign the paperwork? Was it the fact that I stopped learning? Was it the difficulty of branching out into another career field? Or was I unable to play the political game?

I fit the stereotypical profile of a career Navy enlisted sailor. I am an immigrant of Filipino descent, born and raised there. By all accounts, I should be a retiree, anywhere from from an E-6 to E9. I decided to separate after 8 years of service.

I wanted to work on computers but my options were limited given that I was not a US Citizen upon my enlistment. So I became a striker, 2 years of general duty, then went to Aviation Storekeeper "A" School where I was the honor graduate of my class. I returned to my old command as an E-4.

One fond memory I have of the military is my maintenance chief taking me aside and telling me to never say "I don't know." This was in response to a some task that I had heretofore not performed or trained on. He told me, you're a petty officer now, you never say things like that.

I made E-5 in just under four years, then transferred to shore duty, and the politics began. I was never in the Filipino "in-crowd", it wasn't my thing. I had my own buddies, people whom to this day, I keep in touch with and are lifelong friends with. Needless to say, I was most likely not at the top of the division chief's ranking. I did my shore duty, did some college on the side, all the while wondering where I was headed.

The sign came when it was time to sign the advancement worksheets so I could take the test for E-6. I was working graveyards and somehow got the deadlines mixed up for when I had to get it done. No excuses, it was my mistake. I went to the admin office to see if I could somehow sign the papers and take the test anyway, I was met with "You want to be a 1st class and you didn't sign your paperwork? Sorry." In that moment, I decided to separate. I had about a year left on my enlistment. So I kept my nose clean and took the opportunity to practice resume writing and started interviewing for jobs even though I knew I could not accept any offers. I didn't get any offers during that year anyway.

Six months prior to separation, my division chief (also Filipino) calls me into his office, to ask me what my plans were. I told him I was separating. He looked at me inquisitively ... What are you going to do? You don't have a degree. It was difficult for me to tell him the obvious answer, I was going to go get a job.

So that was that, six months went by, I kept interviewing, improving my resume, and ultimately landed a job with a telecommunications firm as a database engineer ... which is a fancy name for a switch operator.

The factors contributing to my decision to separate were mostly subconscious except for the condescending attitude of an officer. First, I stopped learning, mostly because I had no mentor like at my original command. I had a warrant officer who stood up for me and kept me on the right path. Here I had to suck up and I've never been any good at that. Second, Logistics was not my area of interest, though it has served me well through my transition. I was programming computers since I was 10 years old, that's what I wanted to do, and there seemed to be no easy way to convert. Third, I had a flaw, and that was disdain for sucking up. I did not mind work, my father imbued upon me a love for work and getting things done. However, to have to show someone what I was doing and that I was doing it? That was just silly.

These days, I am a proud American, having earned my citizenship in this great nation. There are some things I miss about the service, some things I don't. I actually did some reserve time afterwards but had to go inactive when I started school. Working full time and studying was well more than enough to fill the day. The truth is, my humble successes as a civilian is in large part due to the lessons and experiences in the military.

Response by SPC James Vollrath made Oct 24 at 2014 6:49 AM

SPC James Vollrath — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 06:49:04 -0400

I wasn't given much of a choice it was secret service or 16 months solar power school which sounded good but it would require me to get commissioned and all together was a 10 obligation at age 21 I wasn't ready to give anyone that much of a commitment, but I would of loved the solar power school, seems there is always a catch, and I am always proud of the fact my promotions was from hard work and the dedication I gave to learning more than the pretty boy's for Patriots electrical power, and not kissing ass like my pretty boy dumbass NCOIC wanted me to do, thank god I had civilian higher ups that recognized that and pushed him to advance me and he hated it, but that was Ok they sent his ass packing to Germany, he was an E-6 and wanted to be called sir, long story sort he was a fucken idiot LOL

Response by CSM Michael Lynch made Oct 24 at 2014 9:46 AM

CSM Michael Lynch — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 09:46:44 -0400

Retired after 30 years and 1 day. Would have done 2 more years, but after a 3 1/2 year tour of flying to see the family on holidays and every 3-4 months, I wanted to get closer to home. Head shed wanted me to go to one of two places more distant from my family. He wasn't even aware that I would retire because I could, he should have looked at my OMPF. Miss the Soldiers and Families but not political leaders like him. Happy now employing veterans daily.

Response by PO2 Kevin Kelso made Oct 24 at 2014 10:59 AM

PO2 Kevin Kelso — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 10:59:06 -0400

I spent almost 8 years, doing construction, in the Navy Sea Bees and loved it.
I was single most of that time. I served in combat twice and I have seen much of the world.
After a few years of marriage my wife and I were talking about starting a family and I didn't want to leave them every time I had to deploy. It wasn't a tough choice for me.
The military gave my life stucture, direction and a strong sence of leadership.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2014 11:44 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 11:44:10 -0400

I was a frocked E4 active Navy in 86.
All set for my next 3 years in a gravy shore duty.
1. "I want to move back home to be closer to my parents." We were divorced 6 months later.
2. The Navy took away beards. I was really looking forward to a beard now that I'd made PO3. Boy, what an important reason that was.

Finally got off my @$$ and went back in the reserves nearly 20 years later.
Best decision I made in 2005. 8 years later I still think so.

Response by SCPO Larry Knight Sr. made Oct 24 at 2014 12:31 PM

SCPO Larry Knight Sr. — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 12:31:19 -0400

I retired in 93 after 25 years of honorable service, and full intensions of going for 30yrs. I how ever discovered operation reduction in force was hitting all branch's of the military, and that stellar performance didn't mean squat. I saw the twinky eating E-7's and above is what they're wanting to retain. As a combat veteran in the Vietnam theater all that dedication to service and country, didn't stop them from asking me to put in my papers. When I went up for MCPO (E-9) I quickly realized, that all those I assisted in career ending positions aboard various commands were on the E-( selection board) imagine that ?

So it further proves that you can be a formidable leader with a stellar record and a chest full of medals, and you'll still be cut. Do I hold a grudge why of course I do, they would rather keep the incompetent and rehabbed members to lead our future young soldiers, sailors and airmen. I reflect back on my career now and I have no regrets, I was one of the upper 10% Navy wide Leaders in the senior enlisted community and damn proud of it !

I'm retired from active duty and now await retiring with ssa benefits and continue to work for a few more years, so I can help mentor some of those individuals that desire to improve their lives. I've always enjoyed teaching those willing to absorb years of knowledge, but not in a school setting. Have low tolerance for the stupid factor, and the inability to pay attention to detail by others.

Response by Maj Wayne Dahlke made Oct 24 at 2014 12:40 PM

Maj Wayne Dahlke — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 12:40:02 -0400

I retired after 22years, 14+ as a Special Operations flyer. For me it came down to a choice between family and work...this time family won.

I was stationed at Cannon AFB, in Eastern New Mexico. I helped stand up the AFOSC presence in the new location, and after four and a half years (3 Wing Commanders, 3 Group Commanders, and 3 Squadron commanders later), returned from my 4th deployment from that location and asked my squadron commander to approve my PCS to one of three locations. He said no, and I said goodbye.

For those who know nothing about Cannon AFB, I recommend you Google it. It is approximately 120 miles from anywhere. The nearest town of any size is either Lubbock TX or Amarillo TX. Roswell is 90 miles away, but it is little more than a bump in the road. The schools are horrific, the locals only care about sticking their hands in your pocket, and your shopping choices boil down to Walmart, Walmart, or the commisary (if you can find anything after the retirees get finished with the shelves).

I saw the writing on the wall politically, and decided that it was time to get my family to someplace where my son would have a fighting chance of getting into a decent college, and my wife would be able to pursue her art career.

Cheers

Wayne

Response by SGT Scott Curtice made Oct 24 at 2014 12:44 PM

SGT Scott Curtice — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 12:44:10 -0400

I spent a year in college, had no idea why I was there, what I wanted to do, and some how ended up in an Army recruit office. The few MOS I liked, intelligence for one, were six year commitments, but infantry, with 36 months guaranteed in Hawaii, drew me in. I loved the idea of serving my country in the army as i tried to figure out the big picture for myself in life. Basic and AIT were somewhat of a joke, breezed through, was easy to adapt, loved my time in Hawaii, especially training deployments to Thailand for Cobra Gold, S. Korea for Team Spirit, and Japan for Orient Shield. Tried to get back into college, but realized I still was clueless still, so I changed my MOS to the medical side, literally for the ability to live in coed barracks, yeah was directionless still, but luckily I was a good soldier and better leader, and took my responsibilities and duties of the job seriously. When the BDUs were off, that's another story. 9 more years, and some pretty extensive wear and tear on my spine, and I was medically discharged for degenerative disc disease. wasn't prepared for that, but it was the right thing to do, no way I'd lasted leading from a desk, which is what I was looking at, though I was out of combat arms, I was in field units 7 of my 9 years in on the medical side, Med Bn, MASH, CSH, etc....NBC NCO, PLT SGT, Sqd ldr, Ops NCO, Training NCO, movement NCO, and my fav forced protection NCO, which was challenging at JRTC for my little unit at the time. 25 countries in 12 years, duty stations in 25th ID, 101st Airborne (twice), 93rd Med Bde Germany...what a great experience, took so much pride, and still do, in my time in the Army, still in touch with quite a few friends, though I've been out for 15 yrs. Never did find my direction until about 3 years out of the military, would have never found it if I wouldn't have had that time in the army.

Response by COL Timothy S. made Oct 24 at 2014 12:57 PM

COL Timothy S. — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 12:57:39 -0400

I joined for different reasons, and stayed for different reasons. I wound up retiring with 29 years, 2 months, and 5 days of total service, of which 25 was on active duty. I was commissioned in 1986, but in the late 1990s, I was pretty much where you were in my frustration level. I found myself in the position of either having to become the kind of political animal I despised, or just let sh*t happen. Fortunately , I was in an occupational field (IT) that enabled me to exercise influence in ways not many could and contribute in ways that didn't require ammo (actually, I'll admit that as an officer I was in a better position to get mad and say "Oh, hell no. They're not going to do this to my Army"). While I somewhat regret how the leadership at my last assignment chose to handle informing me that I was no longer needed, at the end of it all, I feel that I did my duty (as I'm sure do), I did it professionally, and faded away on my own terms.

Response by SGT(P) Jennifer Brande made Oct 24 at 2014 1:39 PM

SGT(P) Jennifer Brande — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 13:39:06 -0400

I joined the U.S. Army back on Leap Day 2000 and loved every single moment of my military career, both between Active Duty as well as Reserve. I was medically retired in May 2012 because early in my deployment to Iraq I took an APFT for my promotion packet and my foot landed on something awkwardly hard (fortunately not a mine) but when I got MEDEVACED back to the US because of incoming rounds landing near my living quarters which made my wall locker land right onto my head, my foot became a minor issue in comparison. Once I got my TBI under control I allowed a military doc to perform surgery on my foot to fix a torn plantar fascia and bone spur, he damaged the nerve bundle in my foot and I now have a progressive neurological disorder for which I got a spinal cord stimulator implanted for in Dec 2011. Once I had that device implanted the medical board informed me that I was not eligible to deploy anymore and that they were going to retire me. Very much against my wishes but in the end it worked out since I now have an amazing job and don't have to worry about the stressors that I would fall behind my peers now and I do advocate for people who have chronic pain disorders and how to navigate the military health care system.

Response by PV2 Abbott Shaull made Oct 24 at 2014 1:43 PM

PV2 Abbott Shaull — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 13:43:08 -0400

Yeah I hear you. I signed up in 1988 for Airborne Infantry. This was before the Berlin Wall fell. Short before it fell I had broken my ankle and by the time I got off profile for that, I still had issues with that. At Company-level we all knew military cuts were coming so no one was listen to little old E-2 me when I went on Sick call to complain about problems with my foot and ankle afterwards. So I got chaptered, but at the time the cut from dramatic of the Cold War were already felt in the on Fort Bragg. Several people were let go and by the time I was chaptered I was done fighting to be honest. It seemed politically people were looking for ways to get rid of the 6th, 7th, and 9th Infantry Divisions at the time. There talks of more troop cuts, but they were put on hold. Who knew in couple months someone in Middle East would attempt to acquire some more oil.

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Oct 24 at 2014 5:51 PM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 17:51:29 -0400

Besides being a few years out from my HYT, I have to admit, GDIT made me an offer I couldn't refuse... So? I became a Contracted Instructor for a couple of years, and took the opportunity (and pay cut) to be a DA Civilian Instructor when the opportunity came... Looking back, I'm glad of the decisions I made that got me to the here and now, especially with the economy being the way it is, Contractor cuts (we lost about 100+ over the past 3 years), and the current and upcoming Military and DAC cuts... I figure I'll probably be employed (safe) for another couple years here before my position gets downsized (Retiree's go first)... And yes... I do miss the military, but don't regret the decision to leave when I did.. But had I stayed in those final 2 - 3 years, I'm unsure where I would be employment wise or financially right now, but the Military was an awesome vehicle that got me to where I needed to where I am, and gave me the opportunity to meet some of the greatest Comrades over 5 branches of service that I have ever known! And I wouldn't have traded that experience for anything!!!

Response by PO1 Ron Clark made Oct 24 at 2014 5:59 PM

PO1 Ron Clark — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 17:59:35 -0400

1. I joined the Navy to see the world (That I did) 2 Westpac's 2 Med cruises
2. After I left active duty and joined the Reserves, I knew that I was a dinosaur in this new
PC Orwellian Navy!
3. Some of the people who were fast-tracked promoted were blooming idiots who had
no intention of making the Navy better by doing their fair share or helping their juniors
during their struggles were put in charge.
4. An last when I became an Leading Petty Officer of my department, In my day if a sailor had to miss a drill, he would let his LPO know first not try to do an end-run to the CO or not call at all and be excused by the CO, that's when I left the apple orchard. Lol!

I decided

Response by PO2 David Cook made Oct 24 at 2014 9:39 PM

PO2 David Cook — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 21:39:02 -0400

I didnt want to leave the military, but was medically discharged with a re-occurring knee injury in 1993 after approximately 9 years of service. I loved being a Corpsman and working with the Marines who I was attached to. I still have a hard time with that fact to this day. It feels like a Mission that I never got to finish.

Response by SSG Charles Langlois made Oct 25 at 2014 6:13 AM

SSG Charles Langlois — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 06:13:39 -0400

I was medically retired June 2012 after 23 years in the Guard. (I was also a title 32 dual status tech of 20 yrs service)

My unit had to have a updated PRL (last one on record was from 2004, just before we deployed) I knew my doctor wasn't going to let things slide this time. I had already had two surgery's on my left knee (pre-deployment) had to have my left shoulder rebuilt (post deployment. My gun truck was a cruel mistress lol) and was having severe back problems. (just never said anything about it)

Needless to say, doc did the PRL and I knew it was the end. I took the PRL to the unit and within six weeks I had my separation orders. I didn't want to go, it's all I ever wanted to do, but all things must come to a end. I still miss it. I would still be in if I could.

Admittedly though I am to tore up to do it. There's days I have a hard time getting out of a chair and walking let alone do a pt test or keep climbing up and down on trucks and repairing them. (blown/torn discs was the major cause of separation.)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2014 8:55 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 08:55:07 -0400

I am starting to feel the same way. I lost some good friends in these wars and I feel that we are letting our lost men and women down by trying to pretend the wars never happened

Response by PO2 Jonathan Scharff made Oct 25 at 2014 9:39 AM

PO2 Jonathan Scharff — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 09:39:03 -0400

After six years in the service my wife was due to have a baby. She actually had him while I was on terminal leave. I was due for promotion to E-6 and they were going to send me back out on a ship. It is a tough life away from your family. I had already done it 4-6 weeks underway and 3-4 back in while you work every day. Honestly I just didn't want to be away from my son that much. It is why I respect so much those who have given up even more than me to the service of our country. I also wanted to go back to school and move out of the area we were living in.

Response by LCpl Vincent DeLuca made Oct 25 at 2014 12:03 PM

LCpl Vincent DeLuca — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 12:03:25 -0400

Because the military is on a new "politically correct" binge, when what we really need is young men that are willing to do things that most people couldn't to protect our freedoms. Instead of training us infantrymen, they feel it's more important to have us wear service uniforms, and discuss uniform regulations several times a week.

Response by PO3 Stephanie Veselka made Oct 25 at 2014 12:38 PM

PO3 Stephanie Veselka — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 12:38:39 -0400

HT3 Veselka. I spent 6 years in. When I enlisted I was a push button. I advise anyone and everyone who enlists to never ever be a push button if it's offered. Screw that mess. My advancement papers were at the bottom of the Chief's locker six months past when I should have put it on. Find out later that my instructors in school were buddy buddy with that specific Chief. I messed up at work (not out in town) and birdie went bye bye for awhile. When the birdie came back, I hated it. I spent my entire first enlistment in the shipyards. On a precom political fubar where we had no equipment to work with or to practice on for quals. I filled out reenlistment paperwork only because I was lucky enough to be in a shop where my leadership actually gave a shit. Six years is that magic number. Thank you for the denial so that my involuntary sep pay could move us. I don't regret it for a second, and I would do it all over again with a few changes. Deploying would have been nice though.

Response by MSG David Johnson made Oct 25 at 2014 3:46 PM

MSG David Johnson — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 15:46:22 -0400

My body was falling apart so I promised my wife I would retire after my last deployment, I was over 20 years.
I was a route clearance platoon sergeant in Ramadi, during an operation to clear out the last pocket of resistance in the Ramadi area an IED went off under my vehicle and injured my back. After a year of physical therapy and a medical board I was permanently retired.
So, I was going to retire as a reservist, but with a medical retirement its classified as an active duty retirement.
That's why I got out of the Army

Response by PO1 Jeremy Chubb made Oct 25 at 2014 5:15 PM

PO1 Jeremy Chubb — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 17:15:32 -0400

Well, let us see here. I got out in 09 on BMI standards. Ok, thats not the problem. At 5'-11" by top weight was 196. I had lost about 30-40 lbs doing my own PT instead of group, which was ok w/ my command as long as I lost weekly. Well, one week, i had lost nothing and got put back on group PT. I was 201 at that time w/ 17" neck and 39" waist. Well, long story short, my thought was at 201 (official weight per the instruction) i was called fat. Now you have all these chiefs and officers in the navy that have 50+ inch waist and 19-23 inch neck, they say they are with in standards. Ok, so if they are in standards and i am not, i didnt want any of it. In addition, another reason is that I didn't agree with policies anymore in the government. I love my country, but when (in my opinion) there was a conflict in the oath. Defend the Constitution against ALL enemies, foreign and Domestic and obey the orders of the president, who was and still is going against the Constitution. There is a problem there.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Oct 25 at 2014 5:27 PM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 17:27:49 -0400

I left because the war is pretty much over. I joined to kill Taliban, so if there's no Taliban to kill, then there's no Marine Corps for me.

Response by SSG Ronald Rollins made Oct 25 at 2014 6:56 PM

SSG Ronald Rollins — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 18:56:59 -0400

seems to me the main reason many got out is because of bad or toxic leadership. It is the only constant I see. If only there was a way to get rid of bad leadership but it is the "good ole boy or girl" network. If you do right and look good someone always wants to make you look bad so they look good. I seen it so many times in my 23 years. More so when I was in the army than in the Marine Corps. I was a Sgt (E5) in korea and I went thru an inspection and got a commendable and was put in for a ARCOM. My first line supervisor did not like that at all. I had come in early and worked late sometimes til 2 am to get ready. I never got the award but she got it. She said as a supervisor she rated it more than I did even is she did not do any of the work. Found out she was forced to retire or get out because of some shady stuff she got caugt at.

Response by SFC Scott Parkhurst made Oct 25 at 2014 8:55 PM

SFC Scott Parkhurst — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 20:55:21 -0400

I joined in 1990 at the age of 32. I was a police officer at the time and always wanted to serve. My real father was a Nam Army Capt. Medical Corp. but was on leave in '65 and killed by a drunk driver here in the States. So I wanted to follow in his footsteps and thank all Vet.'s for their service and I too went into the Medical Corp. I was horribly treated by "some" black DS's while at basic do to the Rodney King thing and them knowing I was a police officer....I got the crap beat out of me by one of them....Yes, I did not fight back...I wanted a career and so he got his ass kicked in another way.....He did have me have a TBI and that didn't stop my 20 year career but I did get two more TBI's and I had to retire out earlier then I wanted....I would still be in right now if not for the last TBI.

Response by Sgt Jesse Bergeron made Oct 26 at 2014 2:16 AM

Sgt Jesse Bergeron — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 02:16:22 -0400

My kids, plain and simple.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2014 12:50 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 12:50:25 -0400

My shelf life expired. There comes a time when if you can no longer lead from the front, you must go to the rear. If you cannot prop up the rear, you are excess gear. I could no longer serve as a social worker and found it too distracting.

Response by SSgt James Sewell made Oct 27 at 2014 6:16 AM

SSgt James Sewell — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 06:16:50 -0400

I was HYT in the Air Force and involuntarily retired. I was alright with that. I did my 20 years, 22 days and was happy with what I accomplished. At this point in my life, I would've probably injured myself from doing so much PT. All-in-all, it was a great career.

Response by SSG Terry Groves Jr made Oct 27 at 2014 11:34 AM

SSG Terry Groves Jr — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 11:34:43 -0400

I was forced out after having 2 chest pain attacks that led to a heart attack. I was never given any of my rights and when I complained I was told to keep my mouth shut

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Oct 28 at 2014 10:45 AM

SSG Tim Everett — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 10:45:21 -0400

I got to Ft Meade and it was hands-down the worst assignment I've ever had. So much micromanagement from desk jockeys who'd never had a moment of tactical reality outside of Basic Training. They were by-the-book to the extreme. I got there in Feb of 2001, and I immediately began volunteering for every single TDY or deployment I could get, because I hated the place. It got to a point where I didn't step foot on Ft. Meade for more than a few days in over a year. There were so many little reasons, and not just one big reason. But a lot of little things can add up. Too many deployments took a toll on my marriage. The prospect of another Iraq or Afghanistan rotation was something my wife didn't want to face. She gave me an ultimatum -- her, or the military. I asked for a compromise and asked if she'd agree to me reclassing.

I was in a critical MOS and was told I could either re-up for Ft Meade or go to another strategic assignment in Hawaii, where I'd work shifts and sit at a desk or rack. None of that was in my best interest, so I decided to ETS. Fun fact: after I ETS'd, I ended up getting divorced anyway. I'd be retiring this year if I'd stayed in.

Response by CPL Daniel Nimrod made Nov 3 at 2014 8:58 AM

CPL Daniel Nimrod — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 08:58:46 -0500

i had spent ten years active and on 9/11/2001 I was at the Pentagon when we were hit. I had hidden injuries from my superiors so that they wouldn't kick me out on a medical. I couldn't hide them enough though. Not being able to pass a PT test was really the clincher and I went and saw my doctor who immediately put me on permanent profile. I wanted to reenlist but was medically unable to do so. So I ETS'd. I wish I could have continued my service. I was a lifer I thought. Dealing with civilian life was not what I wanted. I really enjoyed the Army.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 4:54 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 16:54:37 -0500

For me, it was a culture change. The Air Force I joined was no longer the Air Force I was serving in.

I have been blessed by four children. My fourth child came while I was in the midst of medical issues.

My fourth child was born prematurely and had to spend two weeks in the NICU. The same day she was born and we found out that she was having breathing issues my supervisor called me and told me I had to go to a PT test that week. I told him what was going on and his response was "I'm trying to save your F*ing career". To which I responded that my family needed me and they took priority. My daughter was on a breathing machine and that was the response he gave me. My Supervisor claimed that he could not discuss my child's situation with my first shirt because of privacy concerns (which I know to be largely BS primarily because I TOLD him everything that was going on). He said that he would discuss the issues with him but I was able to glean from subsequent conversations that he never did. There were some other unsavory things that I discovered about him foremost amongst them was his blatant hypocrisy. The first shirt wasn't exactly full of integrity either.

Anyways, the response that I got from my supervisor was that the values I had been taught about the whole person concept and taking care of your people no longer held true. It was that point where I decided that my commitment to my family was no longer compatible with service to my country. I had to separate.

In recent years, I feel that what I went through was finally validated by the VA when they gave me a disability rating that proved exactly what my doctor and I had been telling them all along.

I absolutely loved being in the Air Force. I loved my job and I felt that the work I was doing was meaningful and important. I often miss what I was doing. But I feel that the decision to separate was sound and smart decision.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 9:31 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 21:31:04 -0500

I wanted to AT LEAST, go 20, but,..... I have Gulf War Illness, so I am100% disabled, and unemployable.

Response by TSgt Jackie Jones made Dec 3 at 2014 12:58 AM

TSgt Jackie Jones — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 00:58:35 -0500

After 12 years I chose to leave the service. It was a very difficult decision that I made easily. It was 9 years after 9-11 and nothing was slowing down in the desert. I just had a baby. I had given service before self for so long, I felt guilty for BOTH wanting to deploy. NOT wanting someone else to raise my child while I was far, far away for long periods of time. I made the selfish selfless decision to not re-enlist and be available for my child's firsts. I miss it everyday, but don't regret it. This guy was worth it! And so is his little brother! Plenty of people do both (families and military) and that is incredible. But it wasn't for me and my family. God bless all who have served and continue to serve!

Response by CPL Gregory Witham made Dec 5 at 2014 9:13 AM

CPL Gregory Witham — Fri, 05 Dec 2014 09:13:43 -0500

Dang! I'm sorry so many of you got hosed. I was in 1978 through 1986, Infantry. I had good leadership, had outstanding troops working for me, and after almost 29 years, sometimes I miss the hell out of the brotherhood.

To fill in that void, I ride with a number of groups, Patriot Guard Riders, 2 Million Bikers to D.C., Tribute To The Troops, and that helps after almost 29 years. I wish everyone had the same story to share and feel badly so many of you don't. That sucks!

Be strong brothers and sisters! Just a dumb old 11B, but I appreciate your service.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 2:37 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 02:37:03 -0500

Before 911, Junior Officers either had to move up with promotions or were forced out. If you missed the first time with submitting your package, the second round chances were very slim. At the time, I was in a unit that lacked supporting Junior Officers unfortately. My position was BN S4, with a top notch E7 Supply NCO. I had been in several other staff positions in the Battalion before accepting this position, and like most officers, this was my primary job, with many secondaries. A year passed and a new XO came onboard. From the beginning, he didn't like me and it was never known why. The first meeting with him, he told me that I had no business being in an O-3 slot as an O-2. He said he was looking forward to seeing the day I fail. Huh? The guy didn't even know me and apparently didn't read my outstanding military record with awards, commendations, etc. He was just the biggest jerk I was ever associated with in a Staff position. My mission was to take care of the soldiers first. The XO was a disrespectful man as well, disrespected woman and people of other races. He'd constantly berate my E7 and women in the unit; I always addressed him respectfully about the comments. In an attempt to report him to the IG, I discovered the IG was a classmate of his and had no success there. The XO also held up my promotion packet without my knowledge, which ultimately ended my career when the promotion opportunity had passed. A greated than 10 year of which I enjoyed all of it except the end, with exemplary service and performance, receiving several AAMs, ARCOMs, and such from as high as Lieutenant General, I was disappointed that it ended due to the worst officer and human being I had ever worked with. If I hadn't met him or were in a different unit, things would have been much different. I don't regret my service, I only regret having stayed in this unit and allowing this jerk officer to ruin all that I had built.

Response by CMSgt Thomas Halcum made Dec 31 at 2014 3:47 PM

CMSgt Thomas Halcum — Wed, 31 Dec 2014 15:47:06 -0500

I retired

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2015 5:06 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 05:06:13 -0500

I would have to tell two stories. I left the Army twice and joined a third time. I promise the next time I get out will be the last time.

I got out in June 2004. I returned from Iraq in Jan 2004. I saw a lot and didn't want to return to such a place. I thought I would take my chances in the civilian world

Then I joined again and deployed back to Iraq. I got out right after I got back. I was stop lossed while I was there. The deployment wasn't bad really but I dealt with a lot issues in the unit I was in. I was done and didn't want to deal with it any. I had aspirations of joining the AF to be a CCT but that didn't work out so I went back into the Army NG.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Jan 4 at 2015 5:11 AM

SGT Frank Leonardo — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 05:11:24 -0500

I got of the Army so I didn't have to keep,deploying and also PTSD wasn't delt with properly while In was in

Response by PO3 Erica Baker Crisher made Jan 4 at 2015 6:53 AM

PO3 Erica Baker Crisher — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 06:53:07 -0500

I was medically discharged needing surgery on both of my feet. Got 40% disability and was able to go back to school and get my AS is Computer Science and got the surgery needed for my feet.

Response by SGT Charles Vernier made Jan 4 at 2015 7:26 AM

SGT Charles Vernier — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 07:26:28 -0500

When I left in 2006 I had a one year old daughter, a five year old stepdaughter, a two year old stepson and I was still in marital bliss. I had a good civillian job & my ex-wife didn't want me called up for another deployment. I regret that decision now.

Response by MAJ Michael Scharff made Jan 4 at 2015 1:49 PM

MAJ Michael Scharff — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 13:49:56 -0500

I left because the military was drawing down in the mid 90s and they were paying people to volunteer to get out... The Army had just sent me full time to graduate school (Syracuse University) and a year later were asking for volunteers go get out (and paying for you to volunteer). Since I had just gotten my MBA and DoD was willing to pay me and waive my remaining service obligation from just having gone to school... I figured it was perfect timing...

Response by SPC Charles Estes made Jan 4 at 2015 3:55 PM

SPC Charles Estes — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 15:55:58 -0500

My reason? I came in with the goal of 20 years minimum. Problem was, I came in at 30 and while the spirit was willing, my body had other ideas. It started coming apart at the seams before the halfway mark. Don't regret a second of it though. Most of my experiences were positive.

Response by AN Thomas Heath made Jan 15 at 2015 8:42 PM

AN Thomas Heath — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 20:42:29 -0500

It simply wasn't for me. I appreciate the chance to serve my country (me being 1 of 2 on both sides of my family) and I loved that it separated me for 99.12% of our nations population. I have a deep seated respect for those who serve or have served because I know what it's about "sacrifice".

Response by SGT Mark Sullivan made Mar 15 at 2015 8:41 PM

SGT Mark Sullivan — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 20:41:59 -0400

Medical Chapter Discharge, didn't leave by choice

Response by SPC Kevin Schober made Mar 15 at 2015 11:16 PM

SPC Kevin Schober — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 23:16:39 -0400

I left after 4 years even though I would have loved to stay in. I never had a problem with passing my PT test but the Army feels everyone is suppose to meet an image and not be over weight according to their standards. I went through an experimental "fat boy camp" for 30 days where we were locked into a hospital. I dropped over 45 lbs in 30 days. But even the military Dr's we met with 2X a week said it was very unhealthy and they did not agree with what was going on. they told me every person's body has a "comfort weight" and mine just was not meant to meet the standards the military wanted. So instead of fighting it and being unhealthy by starving myself and being mentally unhappy all the time I chose to get out at the end of my enlistment. It is a shame skinny guys that could not pass the PT test were not messed with half as much as I was and I passed my PT test. I guess image was more important than combat readiness at that time. I always passed the Tape Test until they dropped using it and went to another system.

Response by SSgt June Worden made Mar 17 at 2015 12:10 PM

SSgt June Worden — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 12:10:25 -0400

After receiving a resounding endorsement from the interview panel to go to the Drill Field, I was informed by my command that my MOS was to critical and I would not be allowed to go. Becoming a DI was my dream and after being denied the opportunity to pursue it, I decided to leave. Thankfully I was able to morph into the "DI role" as a Trainer/Sgt. with the NY State Police, training nearly 2000 Troopers. I have the Corps the thank for that. If it's meant to be, it will be!

Response by SPC Jerry McEntire made Mar 19 at 2015 12:27 AM

SPC Jerry McEntire — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 00:27:46 -0400

There were 2 reasons I left, I had custody of my 2 yr old daughter and no one I new to watch her when I was in the field and clinton had just been elected and to me it was a slap in the face to have a Commander and Chief that was a draft dodger!

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 19 at 2015 12:47 AM

COL Charles Williams — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 00:47:18 -0400

Because it was time... Enlisted... then reenlisted... then OCS... then 20, then .... well... it was time and MRD was just around the corner...

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Jul 9 at 2015 6:48 PM

SFC Joseph Weber — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 18:48:02 -0400

My feet were killing me and the Soldiers kept getting younger while I got older.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Jul 9 at 2015 6:50 PM

LCpl Mark Lefler — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 18:50:13 -0400

Disability after botched surgery.

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Jul 9 at 2015 6:57 PM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 18:57:23 -0400

It was just time to move on...

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Jul 9 at 2015 8:53 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 20:53:19 -0400

I left to pursue other opportunities. I did not want to continue as an Aircraft Armament Systems technician, and my special duty would only last 2 years. I was not accepted into cross training because of a certain aircraft I had experience with.

Response by SSgt Charles Edwards made Jul 9 at 2015 9:15 PM

SSgt Charles Edwards — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 21:15:42 -0400

I loved my time in the Air Force and was eager to get my feet wet after graduating high school. I began my career in May 2000 and saw many cool things over the course of 10 years in service.

For me, being a lifer seemed like a guarantee. Even my friends and family expected it of me. I returned from what would be my final deployment in November 2009 with a year to think about what I wanted to do--re-up or get out. I was on the fence at the start of 2009. There were some things I wasn't thrilled about regarding the squadron, but politics never really bothered me. I had just had to make the most of my situation.

It was during my final year that I began experiencing shoulder pain that would be diagnosed as tendonitus of the rotator cuff by base medical and sick scapula syndrome by an off-base specialist. Long story short, there was a period when even the most simple tasks were hard to do (saluting was excruciating at times). After being put on profile, my unit was trying to figure out what to do with me. I wasn't happy about being posted on the gate all the time, especially unarmed and I started hearing whispers that I was malingering.

Considering that my service record spoke for itself and people I worked with were suggesting I was faking my injury, my decision to separate became that much clearer. Unfortunately, the people who could have talked me into staying were gone. The new Chief tried to get me to reconsider, but I explained that I couldn't work in a unit full of people who doubted my integrity.

Yeah, alot of things weighed on me in those final months and perhaps the biggest blow was the unceremonious way I left. I gave that squadron over four years of dedicated service and in the end, it was like I never mattered.

Sure, I've spent the last few years trying to figure out what happened, but to no avail. My EPRs were solid fives. I did what I was told. Maybe I needed a fresh start, but that final year continues to haunt me.

Response by GySgt Moses Lozano made Jul 9 at 2015 10:21 PM

GySgt Moses Lozano — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 22:21:17 -0400

After seeing the constant push for more sensitivity training and the power of NCOs and SNCOs being stripped away, I knew it was time for me to go. Thankfully, I was at my 20 year mark.

Response by 1SG Thomas Ross made Jul 16 at 2015 2:21 PM

1SG Thomas Ross — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 14:21:10 -0400

I was a ISG, Air Assault, Battle Staff and a Drill Sergeant. With 20 1/2 years of service.

Response by SSgt James Guy made Jul 26 at 2015 5:23 PM

SSgt James Guy — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 17:23:18 -0400

I did 4 years active with 2 years in Japan and a year in the Nam. I got out and went back to college (and served a year in the AF Reserve). Then I decided to get married in 1972. I knew where I was going if I went back in.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Jul 26 at 2015 5:33 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 17:33:04 -0400

I left because I was in an air force specially code where one person per year was promoted. I had a two young children and need more money to support them and my wife. I was sad but I had to do it for financial reasons.

Response by SFC Felix Burgos-Figueroa made Jul 26 at 2015 5:51 PM

SFC Felix Burgos-Figueroa — Sun, 26 Jul 2015 17:51:44 -0400

After 16 years the Army felt they didn't require my services anymore. Discharged me in the name of "Army Force Restructuring". No early retirement or TRICARE. It's all good though. I will not stay where I'm not wanted. When they need people to defend our country they better look else where. I've already done my time in the desert.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 27 at 2015 4:14 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 16:14:45 -0400

The old mule got tired.

Response by SGT Chris Hill made Dec 26 at 2015 11:20 AM

SGT Chris Hill — Sat, 26 Dec 2015 11:20:43 -0500

I ETS'ed simply because I was not happy anymore with what I was doing in the army, I initially intended to serve 3 years then get out, but I continued because I knew I had more fire left in me and I had passion for what I did, but I started losing that passion and began hating the stagnant feeling due to promotion points being high and I became burnt out on being a babysitter. I was also very fed up with dealing with superiors bad attitudes and incompetencies. Many would say I will deal with it as a civilian, I'd always say true, but I can walk away or speak my mind, rather than getting my ass chewed and bitting my tongue. I just got out this week and I'm extremely happy with my decision!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2016 1:53 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jul 2016 01:53:33 -0400

I am currently still in, going on 11 years, I've been deployed 4 times. I joined as a scout in 2005 because it just felt like I needed to. I loved the army. I still do. But in the last 5 or 6 years it has changed. Training is almost non existing. And when we do its just half ass check the block. It's nothing like it use to be, and no one seems to care. The government acts more like we're a nuisance than anything, and it has bread an environment full of politics from within the ranks. Soldiers, ncos, officers, they are more married about themselves and their career more than the mission. And then have the nerve to complain about the army. There is few of us that want to stand up and make it great again. Everyone talks like they do but actions are always the loudest in any debate. I Have stayed in only for my soldiers. I have thought long and hard about just calling it for what it is and get out. We no longer have support. Not from our government, our people and expecially our command. I don't know why I feel so compelled to stay. But I always completely understand when people have had enough and leave, it's like getting out of a bad relationship. I can only hope someday it'll be great again.

Response by PVT William Bresch made Jul 14 at 2016 8:38 AM

PVT William Bresch — Thu, 14 Jul 2016 08:38:47 -0400

When I left, these were my reasons.

1. My drill sergeant had a husband addicted to cocaine. Some nights, she would stay up all night, she was a nurse, then come to work and take her anger out on us, all day.

2. The platoon I was in, was a bunch of go to the army or go to jail convicts. Come to find out, they screwed up my orders and I wound up in the chain gang platoon.

3. The other drill sergeant was an airborne ranger and liked to beat up privates, for the hell of it.

4. Senior drill instructor was a lush.
5. The other drill sergeant like to bang the recruits, he figured the female's, in his platoon was his own private harem.

6. The captain in charge of the Company liked to take pictures all day.

I went in to Serve my Country not for this crap, I somehow wound up in. Washington did the rest and I left, hence the private rank if that's even a rank to be proud of. I'm no hero but, I have spent the rest of my life since then, protecting my country from those who would harm her citizens and their families.