When was that defining moment that made you realize you were about to become a veteran?

Yesterday, when I began my retirement physical.

When I turned over my last command. Felt like I took off roller skates. Everything else was just paperwork and anticlimactic. Interesting how quick the inside becomes the outside.

When I was handing over my check-out sheet from my command, walking down to the brow. I looked back and saw the magnificent awe that was my ship, my command, my life. When I felt a tightening in my chest; almost like I was leaving a friend behind. The feeling was both accomplishing, rewarding and heartbreaking.