Are you happier now that you're out of the military?

2015-10-27T13:56:54-04:00

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2015 1:57 PM

2015-10-27T13:57:36-04:00

No, absolutely not.

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Oct 27 at 2015 1:58 PM

2015-10-27T13:58:26-04:00

I can honestly say I am in a much better place then my time in service. The military forces you to remove your emotions and feelings out of the way. I do have my moments but for the most part I smile a lot more than I did while in service.

Response by SSG Gene Carroll SR. made Oct 27 at 2015 4:51 PM

2015-10-27T16:51:44-04:00

I can't say

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 27 at 2015 7:26 PM

2015-10-27T19:26:19-04:00

I have a lot less stress.

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Oct 27 at 2015 7:29 PM

2015-10-27T19:29:26-04:00

I Don't think I'm happier; but I'm getting to a place where I am happy again. Although I'm happy I don't have to shave and my job does not require it lol.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Oct 27 at 2015 7:32 PM

2015-10-27T19:32:17-04:00

It started off like this, felt like this, but somehow I'd do it all over again for free now.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Oct 27 at 2015 8:09 PM

2015-10-27T20:09:15-04:00

Absolutely. Loving life these days!

Response by Cpl Christofer Baines made Oct 27 at 2015 9:43 PM

2015-10-27T21:43:57-04:00

I enjoy the freedom of being a private citizen, but I miss my Marines.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2015 10:18 PM

2015-10-27T22:18:35-04:00

Well, it has been over 40 since I left active duty and over 29 since my last Reserve duty. I am very happily retired. I loved the Air Force, but, I love retirement more.

Response by SGT Charles Bunch made Oct 27 at 2015 11:49 PM

2015-10-27T23:49:00-04:00

I was medically discharged so it has taken awhile for me to be ok with the fact that I'm not going back in. I wouldn't say I'm happier but I do get to spend more time with the family.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Oct 28 at 2015 8:50 AM

2015-10-28T08:50:17-04:00

No, I hate it. I can't stand coming home every day, getting to see my daughter grow up and be an active part of her life, and helping my wife around the house. I especially don't like growing my beard out.

In case you couldn't tell, I was being sarcastic! Hell yes I'm happier being out!

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Oct 28 at 2015 9:01 AM

2015-10-28T09:01:41-04:00

In some ways I am. I do enjoy the freedom of making my own decisions in life.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2015 9:05 AM

2015-10-28T09:05:19-04:00

Are you happier that you're out of the service or because you live in Clearwater, Fl? ;-)

Response by LCpl Ash Carson made Oct 28 at 2015 9:22 AM

2015-10-28T09:22:23-04:00

I can say I'm happier but at times I do miss it.

Response by SP5 Mark Kuzinski made Oct 28 at 2015 9:38 AM

2015-10-28T09:38:56-04:00

Yes I am happier but I would have not done anything different if give the chance to do it over again. I'm glad that I enlisted in the army when I did. I had a lot of growing up to do and the military helped me get there. As I looked back at where I was at before I enlisted, I was on a five year plan of self destruction and 4 years ahead of schedule to that plan.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2015 9:46 AM

2015-10-28T09:46:07-04:00

You have no idea brothers!

I did my time. A fact I am proud of, but I wasn't happy. The Army doesn't provide happy. I am so much better off in every aspect, except job security - but then again that goes both ways.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Oct 28 at 2015 9:46 AM

2015-10-28T09:46:41-04:00

No.

Response by MSgt Daniel Attilio made Oct 28 at 2015 9:50 AM

2015-10-28T09:50:37-04:00

I could not tell the difference in myself but many friends and acquaintances say that I come off as a much happier person since I retired.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Oct 28 at 2015 10:22 AM

2015-10-28T10:22:21-04:00

Well, I'm much happier on weekends than weekdays, so if I extrapolate, I have to assume I will be =o)

Response by SFC Thomas Howes made Oct 28 at 2015 10:35 AM

2015-10-28T10:35:31-04:00

Yes and no I went back to work for the Army as a tactile safety then moved over to the Navy I like working with the soldier’s sailors and marines

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Oct 28 at 2015 11:31 AM

2015-10-28T11:31:12-04:00

In or out had little to do with my happiness. It was one of my pet peeves while serving to hear the younger members daydreaming about what life was going to be like in "the real world". I always counselled them to take advantage of life wherever it found them. Sadly, my words most often fell on deaf ears.

Response by MAJ Thomas Person made Oct 28 at 2015 1:30 PM

2015-10-28T13:30:06-04:00

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Oct 28 at 2015 2:22 PM

2015-10-28T14:22:12-04:00

Only to a certain point.
On holidays, birthdays and anniversaries it's nice to be home and not on the ship or shore galley cooking the holiday meal, I do cook at home but it's a different feeling doing the holiday meal at home for the family.
I will admit I miss the Navy, just something that can't really be explained.

Response by CW3 Eric W. S. made Oct 28 at 2015 2:52 PM

2015-10-28T14:52:42-04:00

Absolutely NOT. I have only been out 120 days, so that may have something to do with it, but I have never been more miserable or regretted a decision more in my entire life.

Response by Sgt Frances Krieger made Oct 28 at 2015 3:00 PM

2015-10-28T15:00:04-04:00

I loved being active duty and would have retired if not for a service connected disability. I miss the sense of camaraderie that the military offers.

Response by LCpl Kasey Woods made Oct 28 at 2015 5:16 PM

2015-10-28T17:16:45-04:00

I tend to lock my emotions away so i can make it out of the bed in the morning. overall i miss the marines but im not being forced into so much pain now.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Oct 28 at 2015 5:28 PM

2015-10-28T17:28:22-04:00

Big time...

Response by MSgt Jim Wolverton made Oct 28 at 2015 10:05 PM

2015-10-28T22:05:25-04:00

No, lived my 24 years in the AF.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Oct 28 at 2015 10:25 PM

2015-10-28T22:25:41-04:00

Yes I am... I miss it, but there is life after the Army

Response by SPC Elizabeth Jones made Oct 28 at 2015 11:52 PM

2015-10-28T23:52:18-04:00

Definitely not.

Response by BG Mike Bridges made Oct 29 at 2015 2:39 AM

2015-10-29T02:39:48-04:00

There is opportunity in both worlds to be happy. There is NO replacement for being one of America's one half of one percent in uniform. 34 years, 7 months, no regrets. Loving post service as a Retired Soldier For LIFE.

Response by PFC Al Sethre made Oct 29 at 2015 10:59 AM

2015-10-29T10:59:03-04:00

Yes, I enjoy the freedom to live and work where I like.

Response by Sgt Randy Linder made Oct 29 at 2015 10:59 AM

2015-10-29T10:59:37-04:00

Not really....I miss the Corps still to this day. I miss the camaraderie I had with my peers and the friendships that I had. More importantly, I liked being able to get out of the house and away. I enjoy my job that I have now, in fact, I love it.....it's what I dreamed of doing outside of the Corps (well, one of my dreams.....I've given up on the one of being a professional football player...lol). I work for a great company with great benefits and really nice people but, it's not the Corps. I think I miss the discipline.

Response by SFC Richard Haugh made Oct 29 at 2015 11:10 AM

2015-10-29T11:10:33-04:00

One thing I find difficult (did it to myself) is not being around like minds and the strong bond of Comradeship! I miss: Not being around "Warriors" who carry their word/s as their honor, not being around Comrades who believe in "selfless service" and that laundry list of characteristic traits and values we served under (we may not have them all memorized - we are too busy applying and living by them words). I retired and shifted my career amongst teachers and you have got to be standing and listening to half the crap I hear to "feel me". I miss my career and if it wasn't for me taking that side road into recruiting I would have stayed in longer....

Response by CSM Michael Poll made Oct 29 at 2015 12:06 PM

2015-10-29T12:06:28-04:00

Ill let you know after 1 Mar 2016

Response by PO1 Cameron Rhyne made Oct 29 at 2015 12:41 PM

2015-10-29T12:41:25-04:00

I feel I got a lot of good experiences(and a lot of shitty ones too) out of my my 9 years in the Navy. However, I'm a lot happier and a lot less stressed now, and I get to go home every night and get a good nights sleep.

I occasionally go back and say hello to the people I worked with when I was recruiting, and occasionally one of them tries to get me to re-enlist or join the reserves. I tell them no and continue on with my day.

Response by MSG Michael Murphy made Oct 29 at 2015 12:52 PM

2015-10-29T12:52:19-04:00

Not really happy but content with the knowledge that I did all I could. that age catches up with the body, but the mind and soul are still dress right dress. Ret. MSG Michael Murphy

Response by Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin made Oct 29 at 2015 2:25 PM

2015-10-29T14:25:54-04:00

Yes and no. I have a job which is less stressful and I have the power to control my destiny more so if that changes as a civilian. However, the stress I endured in the military with certain jobs was good stress I thrived on. Unfortunately with the military I could not control my destiny as I can now. The great thing about life now is I have a lot more time for my kids, my community, and my kid's school/sports. With a dual income family, finding time to do things used to be difficult when I was in the Military. Today I do my 8 hours and leave work behind when I walk out the door. It's very liberating.

However, as a civilian work for the DoD, it is more difficult to be that voice of authority and leadership. I do not serve in the position of authority I'm used to and it's sometimes difficult to watch those in those positions take their organization in the wrong direction.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2015 2:31 PM

2015-10-29T14:31:43-04:00

In some ways, yes, because I don't miss dropping a piss test 'every 5 minutes.' I miss the comeraderie and knowing I can ask ANY serviceman/woman AT ANY TIME for ANY help and receive it without question. I was fortunate to not go to war, that doesn't mean I wasn't in a war zone. But if you had to press me on it, yeah, I am.

Response by SSG Michael Primm made Oct 29 at 2015 3:47 PM

2015-10-29T15:47:07-04:00

All day everyday.

Response by MSG D. Layne-Sheffield made Oct 29 at 2015 4:07 PM

2015-10-29T16:07:47-04:00

I was happy as a Soldier and now I am happily retired. Do I miss the military? Yes. If I had to do it over, would I? Yes. I'm happy!!

Response by SSgt Robert Clark made Oct 29 at 2015 4:15 PM

2015-10-29T16:15:01-04:00

No. I have been out 23 years and I have hated every day of the last 23 years.
Corporate America sucks and civilian life sucks.

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Oct 29 at 2015 5:30 PM

2015-10-29T17:30:46-04:00

I'm miserable.

Response by SrA Daniel Hunter made Oct 29 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-10-29T20:28:13-04:00

Happier, no. Happy about different things yes. I enjoyed my military life and the life I have since.

Response by SSG Brian Lovins made Oct 29 at 2015 9:27 PM

2015-10-29T21:27:08-04:00

Ditto what Sgt Randy Linder and SFC Richard Haugh both said. I do not miss the stress even though I seem to intentionally put myself into situations that increase my stress and my supervisor will usually send me into those situations as well before sending anyone else, especially if it is an irrate customer that has not been helped out properly, I seem to work better under stressful conditions. I have a great job and love the freedom that it allows me, the company is great well except for this years health care changes, I miss Tricare, since I left Active duty in 98 and went into the Guard in 01 and retired from the Guard I am at the mercy of the civilian health insurance systems and they suck. I have also found looking back that the times that seemed to suck the worst are the times I miss the most and had the best times.

Response by SrA Rigo Contreras made Oct 29 at 2015 10:06 PM

2015-10-29T22:06:57-04:00

For me no doubt I'm happier. I wondered if I would find success out of the military. For me I've seen much more success in a shorter period of time in the civilian world then the whole time I was in the military. I really like having the freedom and the control over my own life.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2015 10:14 PM

2015-10-29T22:14:06-04:00

I am definitely much happier being out of the Military. I miss the great people I served with, but I don't miss the military having total control over my life. I knowingly and willingly gave up certain rights to serve and be under the control of Army Regulations and the UCMJ, knowing that the military expected a greater level of self-discipline and military bearing. I am proud of my service and hold the US Military in the highest regard, but yes, I am happier being a private citizen and having all of my rights back and the freedom to exercise those rights fully. We all know the demands of us in the military as Soldiers, Marines, Airmen or Sailors far surpassed anything expected in the civilian world. I served in the military to protect those rights for others as well as myself to enjoy now. We all gave that service as Veterans.

Response by SGT Devan Fenn made Oct 29 at 2015 11:51 PM

2015-10-29T23:51:27-04:00

No I miss knowing exactly what each member of my team would do. We were more connected and always fought to bring each other home I am also 100 percent disab.
I would love to work with private contractor. I have so much to be happy but it's feels I am only alive when rolling through falluja getting it done. But I am crazy I guess

Response by 2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 12:34 AM

2015-10-30T00:34:38-04:00

I view the military as that really hot girlfriend that you know's trouble...but you just can't leave her alone. And when she breaks your heart, you still miss her. But you're also pissed off at the same time. It's a love/hate relationship. I miss my people. I was a Marine before I joined the AF. I miss my Marines. That's what makes me unhappy. Do I miss all the bullshit? No. But EVERY job has bullshit. You know what I hate more? My 9-5 job. Can't stand it. At all. I am not cut out for this cubicle nonsense. Sooo...now I'm putting that degree to work for Uncle Sam. I recently signed a 10 year contract with the Air Force to fly planes. And yeah, I know. I've probably lost my mind. Probably. To put things in perspective, I have a son. I know what active duty life entails and I know I am going to miss out on things in his life, but I really believe this type of work is a calling. It's not for everyone. But if you hear the calling and don't answer it, I feel like you're missing out on something big. So, this is a long way of saying, no. I am not. Hence me signing said 10 year contract with Satan...

Response by SGT Fn Dan made Oct 30 at 2015 6:48 AM

2015-10-30T06:48:43-04:00

"The Army doesn't provide happy" someone wrote.
That's true, unless you're Airborne.
LOL

Response by TSgt David Bariu made Oct 30 at 2015 8:13 AM

2015-10-30T08:13:18-04:00

I embrace the professionalism of being self employed and working to put food on the table, but I miss the discipline that I rarely experience in the civilian world.....there are no rules and regulations followed out here in Kenya....
If I were to go back to the military....I would rather go in as commissioned officer....stationed out here in Africa.....retire 10 years from now.....kick back and relax....

Response by SSG Eli Jones made Oct 30 at 2015 8:32 AM

2015-10-30T08:32:23-04:00

Yes, and No I love the freedom of doing what I want when I want, and then I miss the people I gotten to know through the years and some of the experiences together minus P.T.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 10:50 AM

2015-10-30T10:50:56-04:00

I am waaaaay Happier, but I miss my Airmen and watching them develop.

Response by SSG Wally Lawver made Oct 30 at 2015 12:53 PM

2015-10-30T12:53:52-04:00

im fatter..................so maybe fat and happy? :)

Response by Cpl Dave Donathan made Oct 30 at 2015 12:55 PM

2015-10-30T12:55:11-04:00

Yeah I'm alot happier! Besides being broke all the time, the only time I wasn't happy was pretty much self-inflicted lol.

Response by 1SG Jeremy Baker made Oct 30 at 2015 1:17 PM

2015-10-30T13:17:18-04:00

The ability to drive 100 mi without asking is great, but the feeling I had while in uniform can not be matched on the civilian side.

Response by SPC Luis Mendez made Oct 30 at 2015 3:40 PM

2015-10-30T15:40:12-04:00

Been for 45 years! Happiest day back then was ETS day!

Man I tell you, when that last plane from Miami landed in the Airport at San Juan PR, I was in "Heaven" a Free at last moment, I was again a Free man. Other happy days was seen some of my childhood and HS friends as civilians again, 'cause I knew then they "survived". A couple went thru Nam and back that was happiness.

Response by MSgt Bj Jones made Oct 30 at 2015 7:41 PM

2015-10-30T19:41:15-04:00

I liken my feelings about being out of the military as well as my time in the military to the perfect definition of mixed emotions: Your mother-in-law going over a cliff in your brand new Cadillac. ;)

Response by Pvt Kenneth Carlson made Oct 30 at 2015 9:22 PM

2015-10-30T21:22:08-04:00

nope. after 26 years, nope.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Oct 30 at 2015 11:23 PM

2015-10-30T23:23:33-04:00

Not particularly.

Response by Col Rebecca Lorraine made Nov 1 at 2015 6:17 AM

2015-11-01T06:17:00-05:00

It is complicated to answer for me because I was medically retired from the military due to epilepsy. I could live without the seizures, but sleep deprivation, stress and the brutal competition at the upper ranks and within the Air Force Reserve likely started my seizures in the first place. It has taken me years since 2009 to control them. I am definitely better, but I also miss the duty and meaningful work. The military can be an addiction, so transferring the passion to other things less important has been challenging. Being focused on my personal health to save my own life was not a natural effort. I can say, going through breast cancer and epilepsy have made me stronger, and more grateful for the little things.

Response by PVT Robert Gresham made Nov 1 at 2015 6:25 AM

2015-11-01T06:25:59-05:00

SSG Audwin Scott I am very happy being out of the Military !! I loved my time in the Service, and I would not trade that time away for anything. But I am just a "restless spirit"...... I don't stay anywhere for too long, and I always like to find that next challenge. Being in the Army made that all possible.

Response by SGT Chris Hill made Nov 1 at 2015 7:25 AM

2015-11-01T07:25:02-05:00

Although I have 50 days left in the army, I can already imagine the extreme relief and sincere happiness that will begin the day I sign out on terminal leave! The army has taught me a lot that I lacked before, I am thankful that I've served and feel very proud of my service, but I'm more than ready to go back to the real world and apply the discipline and many other qualities I have leaned in the past 10 years. I will re-post to this once I've been out for a week haha

Response by SGT Scott Henderson made Nov 1 at 2015 9:22 AM

2015-11-01T09:22:46-05:00

I miss the training sometimes, I miss being able to shoot high caliber "crowd pleasers", I miss some of the soldiers I worked with sometimes, I miss getting paid more than once a month the 15th of every month (can't wait until I finish school). Other than those "sometimes" I don't miss it at all.

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Nov 1 at 2015 12:05 PM

2015-11-01T12:05:53-05:00

Sometime i miss it.

Response by SSG Joey Ruffin made Nov 1 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-11-01T21:20:05-05:00

About 15 years since I left the Guard. Still miss the guys. I didn't have choice on getting out due to my civilian job requirements but even though it's been so long, I still have a good thoughts every time I pass an armory.

Response by SGT Aaron Dumbrow made Nov 2 at 2015 12:06 AM

2015-11-02T00:06:33-05:00

I am happier due to changes in my personal circumstances, but I do miss being a solider every day. It was an honor to be a part of something so important, and I had so many amazing experiences. I am enjoying being in a position to help those transitioning, and veterans who just need some guidance. I think the opportunity for us to help our fellow veterans can help those of us who miss the camaraderie.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2015 6:00 AM

2015-11-03T06:00:09-05:00

Much happier!!

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Nov 3 at 2015 6:09 AM

2015-11-03T06:09:06-05:00

It's nice being retired, but I miss the my comrades, and some of the fun involved in FTX's.

Response by SPC Joseph Stanley made Nov 3 at 2015 6:13 AM

2015-11-03T06:13:37-05:00

I came in at a strange time and got out when the getting out was good. I came in received a ton of training, was deployed within 30 days of getting out of AIT. I made lots of contacts while in the Army with the civilian sector doing all the jobs I was doing for a ton more money. I made the jump and at that time my inexperience was the only experience in the civilian sector so they were willing to train. Now a days its much more saturated, but I now have over 12-13 years of experience, which in turn keeps me ahead of many of those trying to enter the work force. So am I happier sure, but thats relative to who you are and what you like to do, as well as your options.

Response by SSgt Scott Walters made Nov 3 at 2015 8:23 AM

2015-11-03T08:23:27-05:00

I definitely miss it. In the Corps you knew the routine and the typical BS. In the civilian world the BS flies from every direction with no particular purpose.

Response by SPC Dustin Boyd made Nov 3 at 2015 9:08 AM

2015-11-03T09:08:24-05:00

Speak plainly.....No Absolutely not, I hate it. I miss the military, I miss the brotherhood, I miss striving to do a job with purpose and getting done right the first time. If I hadn't been injured I would still be in, I reenlisted while deployed to Iraq for god sakes. I'm have a BA now and I'm still only making 11 dollars an hour, civilians don't move with same purpose or detication, and it's rare to find anyone with any real honor, integrity or character, do no I'm not happier and I wish I could go back in. SPC Boyd Army Whoa!

Response by PO2 Joan Feledy made Nov 3 at 2015 9:09 AM

2015-11-03T09:09:32-05:00

I was very happy in the military. Loved my job and the feeling of pride I had in myself that went with it. I now also love where I live and the quiet and remoteness and being able to see my husband on a daily basis. I miss it at times and I am glad I am out, could not handle what I used to handle before, so I am glad I did it when I did it. So just a different happy.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2015 9:10 AM

2015-11-03T09:10:41-05:00

I think the military is like prison. In my adult life I've never known any other occupation, so even though I mostly hate it the idea of getting out scares me.

Response by SSgt Liam Babington made Nov 3 at 2015 9:20 AM

2015-11-03T09:20:09-05:00

Yes...but to have comradeship is important....that we grow togeather past what we have been through and support each other down the road!!

Response by CPL Howard Conover made Nov 3 at 2015 10:37 AM

2015-11-03T10:37:15-05:00

I am blessed with a great life but I love to go back and continue to serve. I still think the age limits should be raised to 55-60 regardless whether years add up to retirement or not. At least allow prior service serve in the National Guard until age 60, 62, again regardless of years adding up to a certain amount.

Response by SSG John Gillespie made Nov 3 at 2015 10:52 AM

2015-11-03T10:52:24-05:00

Oh, hell yes. Self determinism is a wonderful thing. :D

Response by PFC Shawn Corey made Nov 3 at 2015 11:10 AM

2015-11-03T11:10:24-05:00

I miss the Corps every day, but I sure do not miss the "big green weenie"! Wouldn't trade the comraderie with my fellow veterans for anything.

Response by MAJ Robert Whaley made Nov 3 at 2015 12:22 PM

2015-11-03T12:22:29-05:00

I am happier now but that is not because I am out of the military, just because things have changed. Some of my best memories were in the military and some of the worst. Just like any other significant time in my life.

Response by SSG Mannix Brooks made Nov 3 at 2015 12:26 PM

2015-11-03T12:26:50-05:00

I retired but I'm still working so I'm neutral on that one. The one thing I miss is there was a clear line to success in the military as long as you followed the prescribed path, something that is not clearly defined and often blurred in the private sector. I wouldn't say happy, more like content that I actually finished a career and left with no regrets when starting this new challenge.

Response by SSG James Raschke made Nov 3 at 2015 12:34 PM

2015-11-03T12:34:29-05:00

I was happier on active duty. I loved my job that I was doing. When I got released from active duty in 2003. I could not fine any job to fit my qualifications.

Response by LTC Leda Rozier made Nov 3 at 2015 12:36 PM

2015-11-03T12:36:13-05:00

While most of my career was in the reserves, I considered that a full time job. It is so nice to always have my weekends and freedom during the week to do whatever I want. Yes, I am totally happy but so proud that I served my country!

Response by SP5 David Cox made Nov 3 at 2015 12:43 PM

2015-11-03T12:43:38-05:00

I certainly don't regret my time in uniform, but I got out after 4 years because I knew that a military career wasn't for me. Despite leaving active duty, large parts of my career have been in support of the military (Navy: ASW systems, Army: Intel systems, AF: comms systems), so I don't feel like I've drifted far from national service in my own way. I'm sure I'm happier with the path I took.

Response by PO3 Maria Flasher made Nov 3 at 2015 1:44 PM

2015-11-03T13:44:38-05:00

Being in the service there were a lot of ups and downs. I guess as far as that goes I'd say there's not a lot of difference to being a civilian. I loved being in the military and now that I'm older and wiser i I know that there are things I'd do differently (way differently). But as far as my happiness goes, I can say that it doesn't matter, active or civilian, as long as I am able to help people.

Response by SFC Ronald Burris made Nov 3 at 2015 3:10 PM

2015-11-03T15:10:36-05:00

Happier yes. Missing the comraderie from all the Soldiers I met over the years is still there.

Response by LTC William Beverley-Blanco made Nov 3 at 2015 3:53 PM

2015-11-03T15:53:44-05:00

No, not necessarily
Its not a cut n dry answerr

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made Nov 3 at 2015 4:55 PM

2015-11-03T16:55:56-05:00

I am neither happier or sadder now that I am out of the Military. I do miss the thrill of going into battle with my brothers and sisters. I miss the camaraderie of the military. I miss the all expense vacations I was able to take, but the travel agent lied about the first class airfare. Wouldn't change it for the world.
I love the civilian life too. Being able to see my family all the time. Not having to take business trips on short notice. In my job now, overtime may be just an hour or two here and there. Not the year long OT. My boss also wants us to leave our work at the office not take it home. I also enjoy my weekends free.
You get out of life what you put in.

Response by Maj Chris Clark made Nov 3 at 2015 5:47 PM

2015-11-03T17:47:14-05:00

No. I miss the Corps every day.

Response by SSgt John Freeman made Nov 3 at 2015 8:22 PM

2015-11-03T20:22:25-05:00

NO, I am NOT happier. I am safer but that doesn't always count for happy.
My years with my brothers was more exhillerating, exciting and more meaningful from each day to the next. Not so with civilians who generally whine, bitch and complain about small shit. I just do not like being around civilians.

SSgt USMC
"The Walking Dead"
1/9 - Vietnam

Response by CW2 Eric Scott made Nov 3 at 2015 8:31 PM

2015-11-03T20:31:22-05:00

Yes. I did my duty for 20 years. Some did more, some did less. During that time was some of the worst and best times of my life. My time is done.

Response by SPC Stephen Riddle made Nov 3 at 2015 9:16 PM

2015-11-03T21:16:36-05:00

I thought i would be happier but I'm not and have no idea why.

Response by SFC William Farrell made Nov 3 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-11-03T21:19:14-05:00

I'll have to agree with some of the others SSG Audwin Scott. I miss the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsman I have had the distinct honor and privilege of working with during my active, reserve and civilian service with the Navy and Air Force. Retirement is nice indeed!

Response by PO1 Gregg Mundy made Nov 3 at 2015 11:00 PM

2015-11-03T23:00:45-05:00

In my case the simple answer is "NO". The Military IS NOT for everyone, but everyone can learn a very valuable lesson in the Military. I loved the Navy but couldn't wait to get out to make the big bucks. That didn't work out and I didn't retire. Worse mistake I have ever made. I made my bed and now I'm laying in it. To a consolation I met and married a wonderful woman who puts up with me.

Response by MSgt Doug Miller made Nov 4 at 2015 3:03 AM

2015-11-04T03:03:37-05:00

I am happier but would do it all again. Twenty two years Air Force. The outside world has no clue of what camaraderie is all about. Everyone should do at least two years just to learn responsibility.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Nov 4 at 2015 4:25 AM

2015-11-04T04:25:28-05:00

I'm happy with more money but if I had to do it all over again I would. My job is great because I'm still work with Sailors all day and we constantly tell sea stories. It's pretty fun.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made Nov 4 at 2015 4:53 AM

2015-11-04T04:53:17-05:00

NO I AM NOT HAPPY THAT I AM OUT OF THE ARMY,MOST BUSINSS WILL NOT TAKE THE VET. IN THE ARMY I HAD JOB I LOVE EVERY DAY AS A 63H,63D,HEAVY EQUIPMENT COMBAT MOBILE VECH.MECHAINC and BODY AND FENDER AND OTHER JOB'S I DID HERE IN KODIAK ALASKA ND MANY OTHER PLACE OF AK DO NOT LIKE THE MILITARY AND THE U.S.GOV.MOST OF THE PEOPLE HERE ARE ANIT VET. AND RET MILITARY AND MOST BUSINESS LIKE TO PAY YOU 12 to 15 HR.AND YOU HAVE TO BUY YOUR TOOL'S.

Response by SGT Mark Seymour made Nov 4 at 2015 7:16 AM

2015-11-04T07:16:23-05:00

If I knew then what I know now, I would have put in enough time to retire.

Response by SPC Justin Myracle made Nov 4 at 2015 8:20 AM

2015-11-04T08:20:39-05:00

Am I happier now that I'm out? You could say that. Am I happy about the way I got out? Not at all. Would I do it all over and do it again? You bet I would.

Response by SFC David Davenport made Nov 4 at 2015 8:42 AM

2015-11-04T08:42:31-05:00

I still work with the military on a daily basis. If I didn't have that contact I would be very unhappy. So yes I am very happy but I get to make my own schedule now :)

Response by PO2 Billy Lollar made Nov 4 at 2015 8:46 AM

2015-11-04T08:46:00-05:00

Yes and no! It is bitter sweet. I got injured in 2011 and spent nearly 2 years in and out of Walter Reed in DC. When I heard in 2013 that I was going to be medically retired at 80% I was extremely happy. Not because I didn't enjoy my time in, but because I was going to get to be with my family on holidays and spend more time with them. After being out for a few months I didn't know what to do. I wanted back in so bad. I say all that to say that I was very happy when I heard I was being retired, but now I would give it all up to be back in. So enjoy the freedom while you can, because if you're like me you will start to miss it!

Response by PO1 Jeff Sellevold made Nov 4 at 2015 10:29 AM

2015-11-04T10:29:35-05:00

Life is what you make of it and the 9 years I was in the USCG I had happy times and times that were not so happy. 14 years since I got out I have had some ups and downs but life has been good overall and would say it has done nothing but improve. Wouldn't trade any of the time since all of my past experience has helped me get to where I am today.

Response by SMSgt Clyde Hunter made Nov 4 at 2015 10:41 AM

2015-11-04T10:41:10-05:00

I am neither more nor less happy out of the military. I do, however, miss the camaraderie of my unit, the respect my rank commanded, the feeling of having a positive impact on people and mission, the focus of leading airmen.

Response by GySgt Ascencion Gomez, D.S.L. made Nov 4 at 2015 10:54 AM

2015-11-04T10:54:33-05:00

Every day that I'm out my memories of the Marine Corps become more fonder... I missed the comradery and brotherhood of my platoon mates. However, I have found several via FB...

Response by CWO4 Carter Owens made Nov 4 at 2015 11:54 AM

2015-11-04T11:54:11-05:00

Absolutely. The tasking was difficult. Last 12 years served as a civil engineer trying to maintain aging and antiquated infrastructure and buildings was, to say the least, a challenge. Loved the Coast Guard and its mission statement but glad It's over. Let the youngsters carry the torch.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2015 1:14 PM

2015-11-04T13:14:26-05:00

After 12 years it was relief. Wouldn't change it though.

Response by Sgt Jerami Ballard made Nov 5 at 2015 2:24 AM

2015-11-05T02:24:54-05:00

Mixed feeling honestly. Who doesn't miss the retardation?
But I do miss the community and general out of my way to help that grows amongst fellow service members.

I'm fortunate to be in a job and career field that has many veterans (I'm a paramedic now) but I loathe dealing with many of the civilians in my area because they have either little or no respect for the job or no insistence to fully commit to it. Meanwhile one of my fellow veteran coworkers is organizing a co-facilitation so we can go and teach EMT courses at local colleges at an affordable price. Many of the veterans on neighbouring squads are all for, civilians not so much.

Response by CDR Brian Rinaldi made Nov 5 at 2015 2:42 AM

2015-11-05T02:42:59-05:00

I miss the military life and people I servied with but I also like knowing that I will be going home to my wife and kids every day. It's probably a wash for me but then I gave almost 35 years to the Navy!

Response by Cpl Micah Wing made Nov 5 at 2015 2:48 AM

2015-11-05T02:48:06-05:00

Honestly no, it is nice seeing the family and everyone else. Needless to say I miss my brothers and sisters. I miss putting on the uniform every day.

Response by SFC Michael W. made Nov 5 at 2015 1:23 PM

2015-11-05T13:23:17-05:00

I'm just "retired military"... will never be out of the military! HOOAH!

Response by SPC Andrew Griffin made Nov 5 at 2015 1:47 PM

2015-11-05T13:47:41-05:00

A lot happier! I have been able to reposition myself with renewed focus! I have JOY in my life!

Response by Lt Col John Tringali made Nov 5 at 2015 3:22 PM

2015-11-05T15:22:54-05:00

Oh my God yes! I miss the missions, the global ops, and the equipment (what I would consider the actual job of the military to be) but I don't miss the mountains of CBTs, ancillary training (also known as stuff I learned the first time so why do you think I forgot it just because our planet went around the sun once), the massive amount of incompetence from support units on base, the role reversal at the company where support departments support operations (the reverse of the AF), and the BEST is how I'm treated like an adult. A few guys died a few weeks ago from some accident on their time. I have no idea what happened, who they were, why, and I wasn't called into a giant meeting to go over the same rhetoric I've heard because.... get this.... they were adults who made fatal mistakes and why should I care? It wasn't my fault. I love that. I also hated all the projects done by people who aren't trained to do them and who don't have data collection tools to even get the right answers.

Response by SCPO Carl Wayne Boss made Nov 5 at 2015 8:48 PM

2015-11-05T20:48:38-05:00

No... I wouldn't say I'm happier since I retired, because I was required to retire... I wasn't ready to retire yet... but I wasn't given the choice. I very much enjoyed those that I served with, in fact I'd say that the majority of the people that I had the honor of serving with, were the crem de la crem of our Nation and I miss them very much...

I just hope that I had half as much influence for the good of the folks that I served with, as they had a good influence on me. They all made me a way better person and a Leader than I would have been otherwise and for that I owe them all!

Response by LTC Dave Duffy made Nov 5 at 2015 10:04 PM

2015-11-05T22:04:45-05:00

Depends on what day it is. A bit like comparing apples to dump trunks, I'm fortunate that I enjoyed life in uniform and continue to enjoy it while out.

Response by SGT Barry Third made Nov 5 at 2015 11:14 PM

2015-11-05T23:14:41-05:00

Not really, miss the travel , friends , training, even though i hated it at the time,,,But the US ARMY made me the man i am today

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2015 4:34 AM

2015-11-06T04:34:48-05:00

Response by TSgt Craig Shoun made Nov 9 at 2015 10:15 AM

2015-11-09T10:15:52-05:00

My answer to that question, is no. I miss the camaraderie so much. After retirement being around so called normal people seemed, down right weird. It wasn't that you are better than everyone else, but you have a different way of thinking and taking things in, and almost everything everyone does, seems just wrong. Upon getting out I developed a social anxiety disorder, and depression. Not to mention trusting people was and still is really hard. But with professional help, I believe that can be turned around in time. Being in college and hanging out with veterans from other branches helps out alot. My advice if your having problems is see a shrink (sorry for the nickname) and find a VFW or similar place to talk and interact with other vets.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Nov 12 at 2015 5:51 PM

2015-11-12T17:51:47-05:00

No!

Response by SPC James Butler made Nov 12 at 2015 5:53 PM

2015-11-12T17:53:35-05:00

Sometimes I think about going back in and then i hit snooze on my alarm clock and forget all about it.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 16 at 2015 9:21 PM

2015-11-16T21:21:12-05:00

Is the goatee the sign of retirement from the military?

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Nov 21 at 2015 11:01 AM

2015-11-21T11:01:46-05:00

I see my post-military profession as a change in my calling. I miss the military, and try to stay involved in Veterans groups, plus for 12 years I served as Chaplaincy Endorser for my denomination. Happier? I'd say just as happy.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2019 10:30 PM

2019-02-14T22:30:09-05:00

Happier? No.
Miss some of that life? Yes. Division and unit runs; airborne ops; watching Soldiers finly click and work as a team; ranges--rifle and FFE; observing a unit occupy an area and set up like an umbrella opening....
Formations, and being surprised by the ingenuity of Soldiers tasked wi te h creating a safety veiedimg for Friday formation; reveille; retreat: pass and review; post flag duty; Soldiers.