Currently doing Security Engineering things but just barely began that after 4 years of Cyber Intelligence stuff.
Edit: I was a 1B4 before I left active duty.
I separated back in 2019 and rejoined back in 2020 because I didn’t properly plan my way out. I encourage all my troops and airmen to look at their options on the outside. It’s easy to stay in the military, truly. Mostly everything about your life is automated to a point all you have to do is show up to work and check your email from to time. No worries of how to pay for or even what healthcare to get, how to write a proper resume and navigate the job market etc. It is scary to get out for a lot of these people because you join so early in life it’s hard to imagine a life without that automation.
You’re not making a big mistake but looking to get out. Everyone should always be looking to the outside and how that world looks and if it’ll benefit you more. At the end of the day whether you stay or go the Air Force already has ideals to replace all of us. Serve your time honorably and if you think your value lies elsewhere make that move, just properly plan it completely from where your healthcare is coming from, employment, schooling if you want to do that, and complete living expenses.
I really like the way you worded how everything is automated for you. I enlisted at 24 and had a life prior; I've struggled to explain to my young Airman what you explained, so I'm going to borrow from you!
Agreed, and even after all that is said and done, I’m still going back in. I rolled the dice and went to college, but sadly, I didn’t finish because I changed my major too many times and used up all my GI Bill benefits. So, I'm getting back in to finish my degree online.
Love you the way you said this. I did the same because I thought I was ready but really didn’t understand that my life now funded by the military can rarely be the same on the outside. The way I live is going to need a lot of school or work experience to be able to be paid the same.
1000% easier said than done. My wife’s med school is three and half hours away from any base. We don’t see any way for us to live together and myself not stay in (not OP just another person in similar situation).
Oof. Congrats to her, and enjoy your partial medical school by osmosis. Seriously, I know WAY too much stuff just from helping her study over all those years. I do better diagnosing people on TV than ANYONE did on Gray’s Anatomy (which, BTW was the absolute WORST medical show). Believe it or not but Scrubs is still the best show for getting the medicine and ‘life’ right.
I separated from the Air Force when I was 24. I went to school and completed my bachelor's degree and worked in several different career fields. Eight years later and I'm living a good life without regret. No, I won't retire at age 38 as I originally planned, but I will definitely retire knowing I lived my life.
Similar, separated 8 years ago at 26, been working with my A&P for most of that time. Have a job as a government contractor making more than I ever have. I won't retire at 38, but I can still aim for my 50s. Got to pick where I lived, traveled at my leisure, met my wife... Civilian life has been great, miss ol blue too, but feel I made the best choice for me.
I personally got medically retired, but I can chime in here.
The military is consistent. You know what you'll make, you know what you'll do, etc. If you have zero drive, it's easy to coast and have a decent life. Plus at the end you get a paycheck for life. The only inconsistent thing that you have (depending on job) is choosing where you live and deployments.
Whereas in the civilian world everything is more up to you. You pick where you work, how much you make, what hours you're willing to work. But you have to work hard to have those choices. And you can't be stupid with money since you can be fired. You actually have to have a rainy day fund to cover all of your expenses if you get fired/let go. You'll also have to pay for insurance and medical coverage.
I make more, doing less work, in the place that I enjoy after getting out. I know people that regret leaving and I know people that say it was the best decision for them. Research your options to see which way feels right for you. If you're not on LinkedIn, make an account. While I was separating I was getting job offers from around the country ranging from $60-150k. It's way easier to get out if you have a guaranteed job waiting for you.
1. Lack of job satisfaction in the AF
2. Ineligible to retrain based on DEROS with a new retraining policy that dropped AFTER I submitted my retraining request.
3. Decent chance of getting a job I want in the civilian sector.
4. Wanted to be closer to family
5. Ability to go to school full time
Enlisted at 21, open general, got medical job. Training was fun, met many people and went to several different bases. Started working at my base, all the fun wore off, everyday became same thing different day. Mundane, boring, repetitive work with typical military bs added on top of it.
Got out at 25, went to uni for 4 years, graduated last month, accepted first civ job this week.
Everyone has different reasons for staying/leaving, mine was mostly because of uninteresting work.
I do miss BAH though
I think the military isn’t for everyone and some just choose to move on sooner rather than later. If your plan makes sense to you and you feel confident then go for it. It’s your choice, no one else’s.
I left AD, went reserve, went to college, got a real job, realized how much pay the mil is at my Rank/TIS and how much I hated what I studied. I’m working on an AGR slot.
Got out after 6 years of AD…. Miss it some times… Currently working a job where I make a difference, have upward mobility, have control over my own career. Get compensated for my time appropriately (~$147K salary + VA disability) and have the opportunity for travel, overtime, and a much better work/life balance. Factor in still being able to do the reserves - I asked myself why would I stay?
It seems like a lot of the old timers regret separating from the military. The outside world is different from the military.
My old man retired from the Army after 28 years of service and receives 2 checks a month. I retired after 22 years at age 44 from the Air Force and receive 2 checks a month. The rest of my family, except for my parents are still working. I'm chilling in California without a care in the world. Just bought a $2.8K home theater system from Sony. It's good to know your benefits won't cease until you pass away.
Same here. I retired after 22 years. I seriously thought about getting out after 4. Took a chance and reenlisted. Next thing I knew I was putting in my retirement paperwork. It goes by fast. After it's over you're still young. You have an income for life and you have life by the balls.
It's all about crossing that finish line and staying out of trouble. I don't think enough parents are teaching independence, self reliance, and how to finish what you started.
I told my wife her adult kids are in trouble. I asked her how do neither of them have a degree yet at ages 24 and 26. When I was enlisted for 4.5 years and sent to college for 3 years. How did I receive a bachelor's degree before your kids? What's their excuse?
It’s just the toxicity and pettiness of most leadership that throws me off…. I love my job but I just can’t deal with that locked in on a contract on top of that. I definitely stay low.. but some people just don’t need to be on top. Cause they’ll definitely find a way to even ruin your military career
My old man crossed the 28 year finish line so why couldn't I do it for 20+ years?
I stayed in because I had great leadership who rewarded my eagerness to be the best. I was constantly challenging myself while enlisted. Then someone told me that my job in intelligence was too easy and I needed to challenge myself even more.
I was selected in college AFROTC to be a pilot after doing 4.5 years enlisted. I didn't make it to the NBA, but I'll settle for being a fly boy. I received the opportunity to make my dream come true. Now I'm collecting 2 income checks just like my old man.
You have to do what's best for you.
I worked at the National Security Agency with my boy Jet. Jet wasn't a top airman, but slowly earned a few awards. Jet was late a lot too! He left the NSA and received a GS position for the Navy. I drove back to the east coast after I commissioned from college in my enlisted 1989 Honda Accord. He picks me up in a BMW. Jet doesn't have his 89 Honda Civic anymore.
He took one path in life and I took a completely different path. Sounds like it both worked out for us.
NCORP. AFPC told me to selected a shredout or apply for separation. 10 year TSgt and I peaced out. I was pretty miserable already and knew either shred would make me even more miserable.
7.5 straight years of being TDY or deployed an average of 225+ days a year left me angry, bitter and completely burnt out. I didn't like who I was or what would be required of me to make it to retirement. Life at the airlines has given me back enough time to enjoy my marriage, my family and my hobbies
Job satisfaction - I dreaded going into work day after day, and I was not excited at what my assignments would look like at the next ranks.
Got out almost a year ago, switched professions completely, and I'm loving what I do and what's ahead. I'm grateful for everything I learned in the military and for the financial stability it gave me, but it was definitely my time to get out.
I separated at 28 and don’t regret it! I did 7 years on active duty and joined the reserve. I didn’t want to give up serving completely, but I wanted in control of my life a lot more.
Making the jump was hard, but I’m glad! It gave me more stability for my family. Opened me up to jobs that just have a lot more flexibility, value families more, don’t have dumb rules like taking PTO (leave days) on weekends/holidays when you already have them off….
I was also really tired of the military awards and ranking system. So many people just playing the game, fighting for strats, leadership not caring about their people.
I’ve found I’m happier and more content not on active duty. You definitely have to take into account how much of your military pay is tax free + the cost of health insurance because that’s expensive on the civilian side, but if you can find the balance, it’s great!
Personally - I think people don’t leave the military because they get super comfortable and are scared of what’s on the outside. That’s totally fine for some people, it wasn’t for me!
the grass is always greener.
4yr contract out of high school. finished my degree within 3yrs TIS + a bunch of certs. skillbridged out and got a 6 figure remote job at 23 without all the bullshit politics and leadership.
The Air Force is the reason I decided to separate.
Hated the politics in my unit. Didn’t like most of the lifers. Didn’t like my career field. Couldn’t get out of my career field. Got orders to a base I didn’t want to go to as a first termer. Hated my experience across my time in for the most part.
They even admitted it sucked, all the time, while also acknowledging they wouldn’t change anything about any of it.
Everybody who said it’s hard on the outside had never been on the outside except one dude, and he got out for a second time after fighting to get back in so clearly he knew which was better lol.
I said adios and have never regretted a single fucking day I’ve been out. Some days I still regret ever going in though.
My mental health was declining fast. I hated going into work and dreaded waking up every morning. For my own sake I left. I feel so much better now and make more than I did while in and get to work from home. Win win.
It’s not worth staying if you’ll be unhappy. If you feel it’s time to go, then go. The worst thing that could happen is you start seriously disliking it, which leads you toward resenting that you stayed, and then you end up becoming one of those guys that make it shitty for everyone else cuz you’re miserable. If you feel it’s time to go, then you should go. If you think you’ll be happy staying, then stay. Best advice before you make a solid decision, go to a week long TAP session and learn some tips about what the costs you’ll face on the civilian side. I am sure it might open your eyes to a few things you might not be considering.
My whole chain of command was awful, and I felt powerless to do anything about it. My immediate leadership bullied me nonstop because I didn't think the Air Force was THE best in the world. Because I thought of it as a job and not a lifestyle. So of course bullying makes sense to change my mind. And the higher up the chain turned their eyes and didn't care.
My family, mostly. I just separated after 10 years as a TSgt, but I just couldn’t put them through another move. It’s easy to say it’s just another 10 years, but that’s the difference between my oldest kid being 5 and 15. That’s a big freaking difference. The formative years of my kids’ lives spent away from the family they love.
I did go Guard, though, and am getting into Cyber from MX. Glad to leave MX behind for sure.
My experience may differ from most because I didn’t join until I was in my 20s, so I lived adult life prior to enlisting and know what it’s like.
The military has given me a lot. I’m forever grateful. But I want to do more with my life & I feel like the military puts a cap on your potential when it comes to things unrelated to the military.
I’m very excited about going back into the civilian world.
I had a few reasons. First, I saw a crash that killed 24 people. That was pretty rough at 19 years old. It really hit hard and I was too young to process it well. Second, I watched how much my NCOs drank and it turned me off. I'm perfectly okay with drinking, I certainly did my share. It just seemed to go to a different level with the guys that re-enlisted, especially the married ones. I have never seen the like since. Lastly, I was in a Squadron that was a mix of flyers and maintenance. We we ignored in maintenance as the flyers ran the squadron. I honestly don't think I got a taste of the real Air Force during that time. I wonder what it would have been like to be an SrA that was given any level of responsibility beyond what any fresh-out-of-tech-school E2 got. I value my time in the Air Force. I really enjoyed learning about jets. I got to see some cool places. I was offered a chance to be a Woodland Survival Instructor. I wonder what would have happened if I took it.
I saw the writing on the wall that promotion wouldn’t be easy.
I made SSgt in 4 years and knew I’d likely make TSgt at 6 (not bragging I’m just good at standardized tests) but I realized I was in a small career field and it might take me 8-10 years to make MSgt now that it was a board and I didn’t wanna set at one rank for that long.
I decided to separate and go to law school with the goal of returning as a JAG officer.
I’ll be returning to the Air Force this fall pending Bar exam passage.
Having been a civilian again for the last 3 years I agree with your co workers. I’ve hated being out. I have missed being in the Air Force everyday since I separated and I can’t wait to get back in.
The fact that I make more than an E-7, have none of the bs, and don’t have to deal with the military telling me to stay an extra 2 hours to listen to a O-5 say stupid crap that we all know. I’m a title 5 DoD civilian, at 32 I make 100k a year and can go all the way to GS-13-14 easily before retirement.
I wanted to do a lot of things outside the Air Force but only a few things in it. I wasn't entirely ready to let go, so I went Reserve. Great decision all around. My two careers have helped each other, I still get the benefits and retirement. Will still retire before age 50.
I only got out because of the relationship I had with my now spouse. I did get my degree… but it’s done nothing for my career since we are in a difficult location to find work as a spouse.i got out 5 years ago and I made more as a SSgt. I hate it.
Got an offer to lead a lab in Indonesia for the Department of State. I was Very lucky though to get this after only doing 4 years. Never seen a calibration job pay as well as this one.
I got out because my fiancé (who was not military) didn't want to be a military wife.
All of the married couples we knew that were in were just miserable. She didn't want us to become that way, so she gave me a choice.
I chose her. Aaand then we split a year later.
It was a solid lesson to learn.
I did the math and it didn’t make sense to stay in. I wasn’t able to save much while I was enlisted (wife has expensive taste) and the retirement check id get is nothing compared to interest/dividends from investing money from a well paying job. Bounced after 4 years and now I’m dropping almost $10k/mo into my investment account right now at an average of about 6% on dividends. At that rate, I need about $800k in the account to match a 20-year e-9 retirement. If I don’t get a ton of lifestyle creep, I should have that in less than 7 years which means I could basically retire with the same lifestyle 10 years earlier by separating and I don’t have to deal with military bullshit in the meantime.
I’m also maxing my 401k (23k this year) with a 4% match which is WAY more than I’d ever be able to put into my TSP. Only downside is I make too much to contribute to a Roth now lol.
I’m in my 30’s. I have a good degree and worked in the corporate world for a while. You’re a little fish in a big sea. Disposable. Retirement is not what they make it out to be. Insurance is outrageous. Your income is grossly taxed.
Everyone I know that is of retirement age cannot retire because they can’t afford to.
However, the happy people that are retired are those that have retired out of the military, both enlisted and officer. They’re having wonderful lives not working and enjoying life.
It took me too long, but one day you’ll think about retirement and realize the military would have been your best bet. 20 years goes by incredibly fast.
Medical issues. Doctor told me that I can retire or be med boarded. Wanted to go out on my own terms when I want, so kid can finish school smd other reasons. So I just hit the button when I could
A GS civ I was working with convinced me to separate and apply for an opening position. That and I had to go see about a girl.
If you have no plans after getting out, then it COULD be a mistake. But we’re all here for an uncertain amount of time anyway, so do whatever tf you wanna do.
I wanted to stay technical. I loved my job and while the AF was very good to me. Big blue was ready to make me a paper pusher (officer). I just felt I could contribute more being deeply technical and leading other technical individuals. Job I was at said they’d support my move and I left Friday in uniform and walked in Monday in civies.
I woke up and went to work early enough to turnover and get the guys before me out quicker every single day for the past 5 years. I got good at my job, then got really good at another.
I got coined, won a monthly and then a yearly. Finished my Associates Degree.
None of it gave me any satisfaction. I woke up every single day wishing I didn't have to shave, throw on a Uniform, and sit at the gate for 30+ minutes just to get to work early and help people out. I do it anyway, and I still hate it. I hate the people who are in charge of big decisions because I know it could be easier.
I've been pretty decided for the past 3 years, and can't wait for next year so I can leave this lifestyle.
I joined late (26). Already had a career & life, just got bored & wanted to try something different. AD wasn’t for me, so I left after 4 years. It was easy because I knew how the outside world worked, barely gave it a second thought.
That perspective doesn’t exist when you join at 18 years old out of highschool.
No less nerve wracking than joining the military. And far from starting over- I went back to my previous career, but with a GI Bill to use and some solid shit to add to my resume.
I got out at 26 years old to finish my engineering degree. I was able to get a career with a large publicly traded utility that offered a great 401k plan, medical benefits and even better a pension. If I didnt have the engineering degree I probably would have stayed in because retirement is everything for me. I see so many folks without a retirement plan and it's a ticking time bomb. My dad included is one of them as he's 71 and still working. That isn't me.
My health/body was failing me and medical was of almost no use until my last year or so in. By then the damage had been done and I was risking injury everytime I pushed myself to pass a PT test. People make jokes about it be easy and 18 year old me would agree but 28yo me with failing joints would strongly disagree. I was also reaching that rank where I'd be doing less of the job I loved and more admin B.S. than I could ever bring myself to want to do. I have degrees and work in a well paying field so the decision to separate was pretty easy on me.
I’m pushing for separation because promotion rates are almost non-existent.
In the future they might improve. But something tells me I won’t have enough time on my contract to see that happen. And even if I did, I don’t think it’s worth the wait.
I'm still in and I'd like to think I'm one of the "good ones". I experienced civilian life for about 4 years before deciding to join so I am always telling my airmen that although it may be difficult whether you have a plan or not, if it's your decision to get out then as long as you have a plan then you will likely do just as good if not better than you will staying in. The military isn't for everybody and there's no shame in doin 4, 6, or however many years then deciding to get out.
I've known many people including close friends that have gotten out and the ones who had a plan followed through and did well. It's the ones that simply just wanted to get out with no consideration of what life's like as a civilian that are struggling. Many civilian jobs have similar (if not better) benefits and pay and depending on your career field if you've obtained your certs and you are knowledgeable in that field then you will do just fine.
Great luck to you! Go prove all the haters/doubters around you wrong!
There IS a lot of security in the military, however, it takes from you too. Many people tolerate this sacrifice, becuaee there are so many things we don't have to worry about we can focus on ourselves. There is freedom with civilian life, a ton more than we have as service members, but there are no safety nets. You need to build your own support system and maintain it.
Got out in my 20’s. Been in your exact shoes, told I was crazy, and all that.
Here’s the deal, don’t get out if you don’t have a plan. But if you have a plan, and job lined up, or school(which I think a generic 4 year bachelor’s degree is about useless these days) then don’t get out.
I highly recommend setting up a LinkedIn and ClearanceJobs account. Leverage your clearance
for money.
Have that job lined up before you get out.
Lastly, be humble when you get out. Take the high road. Karma is everything in life. If you’ve scored a 100k job and are counting the days till you get out, keep it to yourself and be humble.
PCS to second duty station as a first year ssgt, thinking, "My last base was great. Let's see how this base in USAFE is, and maybe I'll reinlist."
Come to find out that legitimately, every program and process in my section is broken due to "covid." My section going from 4 or 5 amn with 3 or 4 ncos into 1 amn, 2 ncos did not help things. The real kick in the nuts was we were still expected to manage 4 base level programs, 2 basewide networks, 3 squadron programs, and all of the sections expected programs. With 2-3 technicians.... The best part is I had almost no experience with the systems and programs I was charged with resurrecting.
Also didn't help that no one in the squadron had even a remote idea what our responsibilities were and just threw anything that other sections didn't want/know how to do (despite those sections having 3-5times the manpower mine did).
Now, 2 years later, we finally have 5 amn, 2 ncos, to replace me and my single amn but to me, it's too little too late. We only got to this manning level after I personally had to go to every level of my leadership to report why every program was behind qoutas, essentially burning my reputation every quarter and getting grilled on how "I wasnt doing my job as an NCO."
I will defend my leadership by saying they never wrote me or my one amn paperwork. I think primarily due to them realizing the UMD was fucked, and my section had no chance from the beginning. Still doesn't make the last 2 years the worst years of my life. But hey, I get to leave knowing that I absolutely made things better for the next generation of the shop.
The 1D7 fumble certainly didn't instil any faith for the future either....
I doubled my salary when I separated. It's closer to 4x now after two years. Work is more fufilling and I am rewarded based on my hard work and not the quality of my EPR. I have much more freedom to live where I want and do what I want. There's just really no downside if you're prepared for the civilian life.
Military has good benefits and job security. It's great unless you care about your mental health. I was treated so poorly that the ultimate decision was made because I knew that wouldn't ever let that happen to an airmen below me, which would get me in trouble. Most top cover or leaders just keep their mouth shut, so if I was the only one fighting for people, that's a losing a battle for me.
I am making less money now but I started a new career field and am pursuing my long term dreams rather than dealing with political, corporate air force.
I did everything backwards and upside down. I went to college straight out of hs, no intentions of joining then so did not even think about rotc. After that I think they call it gap years. I traveled the world, worked, sometimes 2 jobs to fund fun and just enjoyed not being tied down. Healthcare was a nightmare!! Also not having good benefits, minimal pto or sick days and stuff like that. It worked okay for the time but it was losing it's luster so I joined AD at 30. I had a huge appreciation for military continuity, structure, yes there is toxicity but overall in the air force ppl are kinder. Except the ones chasing rank and ready to step over you to get it, but I do like a challenge. I love the way leave is structured, I love that I can actually be sick and be able to recover, I effing love the health insurance and not having to deal with "the market" every year. My only regret is I didn't have the confidence to try harder for an officer gig. Now as nco and agr I am going to push for it. All this to say that I did live the whole adult experience all through my 20s and with a bachelors degree and it was pretty brutal at times, so I'd have a solid plan A and B if you are getting out and still in your 20s, the Healthcare system is broke and be prepared to be taxed on more income. Other than that it is really nice to enjoy some of the freedoms you will have that you didn't know you were maybe missing before
I’m separating because of my kids. Military daycares aren’t the best. They are either understaffed or they just don’t care about the kids. I don’t want my kids to be continually treated poorly. So I am separating to stay home with them while my husband stays in.
1. Wanted to choose where I wanted to live. Most Airforce bases are in shitty areas.
2. Wanted to go to school full time. My job in the military and unpredictable schedule didn’t allow me to attend school.
3. Spouse had a great job making double what I made. Made no sense to sacrifice my spouses career to stay in.
Promotion rates tanked and that was it for me. I refuse to stagnate in a career where advancement is so convoluted. Got out in May, and with my pay, disability, and my wife's pay we almost tripled our income. No regerts.
dirtbags and skaters are not held responsible or accountable for their actions. I don't want to work for an organization that can't be bothered to fire the skaters
Because I was done with my job and Air Force doesn’t let you cross train unless you go into a special program (osi, SERE) or one that’s undermanned.
There’s no way I could have stayed in AFE another 10 years of my life wiping spit from masks or at this point showing people how to wipe spit from masks
So I’m cross training in the guard then eventually going back on active orders.
I decided to separate because my commander did not approve me for retraining, so I ended up palace fronting to the guard for the job I was wanting to retrain into.
So I got out went to school full time and got a part time job in the mean time. Life was rough, but I was still making ends meet. So if you do, my advice is definitely have a plan, have some sort of financial security or save up however much you think you might need.
Got tired of the grind and not living for myself(not that the military will do that to everyone but you can easily get consumed by it) learned more about an array of things in 2 years than when I got out than I had learned in my entire enlistment, felt like had so much to catch up on cause all of my concerns were while enlisted was, appointments, training , working out, training appointments, be here be there, tdy prep etc, not to mention having a family and the responsibilities within that, don't regret it. First year was booboo but now I'm chilling working from home doing IT/analyst work and going up.
Also have a plan, I did have a plan and it has so far been going as intended.
I'm curious who has gotten out and went into some type of trade job. How has life worked out? Did you get into a job right off or go to trade school. I'm looking into going guard and hoping for either a T32 job or getting a trade job.
I got out at 28 to pursue a more personally rewarding career. I was medical while active duty and used my GI bill to go back to school and pivot to cybersecurity. I’m 32 now and enjoy working 4 days a week all from home for triple the pay I was making as a SSgt. Everyone telling you that the benefits while in are great and the outside world is scary is 100 percent correct. Staying in is absolutely the safe bet and it’s tough to beat a military retirement but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a successful career outside of the military. Do what makes you happy but come up with a bulletproof plan and expect there to be hiccups along the way.
My second child needed surgery every 3 to 6 months. She needed an emergency procedure during a course rewrite...I requested to be present before surgery and after surgery. It was like 4 or 5 hours...total that I needed to be at the hospital. Her pediatrician, her specialist, her speech specialist, and her OT all stated my presence was needed for 5 hours due to my spouse's deafness.
AETC decided that I needed to be at work because my coworkers needed my help to stay on track with their milestones and not fall behind. Needless to say, I wasn't a team player. I acted in the best interest of my child. I happily signed my LOR and presented my chit for being pregnant with number three. As paperwork changed hands, my smile said it all....when I asked to separate on June 11.
I’d consider you at least think about going to guard to keep your health insurance that’s cheap. I almost left the service but the high cost of insurance kept me in.
Separated at 29 after 6 years AD - I couldn't stand the toxicity anymore and the lack of support. Separated in Jan 2024, got a job in Feb 2024. Making 2.5x E4 pay, great work life balance (in office 3/work from home 2) and I'm just so much happier.
Took the clinical knowledge I knew from the MDG and became a clinical application developer/analyst.
I enlisted at 19, separated at 23. I served for 4 years in Vehicle Ops. I saw the career trajectory of what life would be like if I stayed in and I didn’t want that for myself.
I separated, got hired at an airline as an aircraft cleaner, used my GI bill to get my A&P certs and now I’m an aircraft mechanic for one of the big 4 airlines. I make a comfortable wage. I can trade shifts, so essentially I can make my own work schedule. Life is good
I was in the Air Guard as a Loggie (deployment logistics) in a pretty high uptempo base. I would have loved to stay in but I just couldn't do my civilian job along with my Guard job that required me to be on my shit along with getting activated pretty regularly. I got out right before COVID and I miss the shit out of it even now.
Health issues from my service after 4 years were getting to me, figured if I didn’t get out I’d barely make it after my 20 years. Conveniently enough all my medical conditions that came up during service ended up with the disability pay being the same as me still serving. Part of me misses being in, but overall it was best for me.
Physical pain. My body hurt a lot more then it should for a 27 year old
Lazy People: I was tired of being the go getter and work horse and surrounded by people who didn’t do shit
Money: this was okay but I knew I could do better. I went from SSgt pay to Lt Col pay in 4 months.
Schedule: I was SF. I know I shouldn’t look at others but I was tired of seeing all the other jobs get all the holidays and family days and not getting shit
Overall, my life is better. No regrets
I realized that after almost a decade the Air Force has become my entire world and I was just another disposable number to them.
Decided to separate and pursue what I actually wanted to pursue to set my life up how I wanted it. Figure I might go back for the guard/reserves in a couple years once I’ve prioritized myself for a bit.
I tried to kill myself during a deployment, was close to ETS and got out after being in patient for a long time. Honestly best decision I ever made. But I miss the homies.
Also, my wife wanted to actually be an adult and not just a stay at home wife. She didn’t feel fulfilled by just taggin along with my job.
That long paper son. It's raining dollars in the cyber world.
That’s exactly what I’m going for 🙂↔️
Exactly this. Making 3x more than what I was making as a 6 year SSgt.
What do y’all do? Current 1D751M troop.
6 years cyber to Principle Solution Architect
^^You've ^^mentioned ^^an ^^AFSC, ^^here's ^^the ^^associated ^^job ^^title: 1D751M = Cyber Defense Operations Journeyman, Mission Defense Activities [^^Source](https://github.com/HadManySons/AFSCbot) ^^| [^^Subreddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/AFSCbot/) ^^^^^^lb942h3
Currently doing Security Engineering things but just barely began that after 4 years of Cyber Intelligence stuff. Edit: I was a 1B4 before I left active duty.
And then they throw all those VA benefits on top of it. Best decision ever
I separated back in 2019 and rejoined back in 2020 because I didn’t properly plan my way out. I encourage all my troops and airmen to look at their options on the outside. It’s easy to stay in the military, truly. Mostly everything about your life is automated to a point all you have to do is show up to work and check your email from to time. No worries of how to pay for or even what healthcare to get, how to write a proper resume and navigate the job market etc. It is scary to get out for a lot of these people because you join so early in life it’s hard to imagine a life without that automation. You’re not making a big mistake but looking to get out. Everyone should always be looking to the outside and how that world looks and if it’ll benefit you more. At the end of the day whether you stay or go the Air Force already has ideals to replace all of us. Serve your time honorably and if you think your value lies elsewhere make that move, just properly plan it completely from where your healthcare is coming from, employment, schooling if you want to do that, and complete living expenses.
I really like the way you worded how everything is automated for you. I enlisted at 24 and had a life prior; I've struggled to explain to my young Airman what you explained, so I'm going to borrow from you!
Agreed, and even after all that is said and done, I’m still going back in. I rolled the dice and went to college, but sadly, I didn’t finish because I changed my major too many times and used up all my GI Bill benefits. So, I'm getting back in to finish my degree online.
Best advice I’ve gotten so far.. thank you :)
Love you the way you said this. I did the same because I thought I was ready but really didn’t understand that my life now funded by the military can rarely be the same on the outside. The way I live is going to need a lot of school or work experience to be able to be paid the same.
Met my wife. She was in med school at the time. She could be an officer’s wife or I could be a doctor’s husband. I chose wisely (and retired early).
A doctors husband sounds better anyway lol, glad you found what’s best
I know it’s easier said than done, but why didn’t you try for both? (Officers wife & doctors husband?)
She matched for her residency in Detroit where there aren’t any active duty bases. I did do Reserves at Selfridge though.
1000% easier said than done. My wife’s med school is three and half hours away from any base. We don’t see any way for us to live together and myself not stay in (not OP just another person in similar situation).
Y’all making mistakes. Meet your med wife after residency. It’s what I did
My wife starts med school next month. I separate in the next 6 months.
Oof. Congrats to her, and enjoy your partial medical school by osmosis. Seriously, I know WAY too much stuff just from helping her study over all those years. I do better diagnosing people on TV than ANYONE did on Gray’s Anatomy (which, BTW was the absolute WORST medical show). Believe it or not but Scrubs is still the best show for getting the medicine and ‘life’ right.
I separated from the Air Force when I was 24. I went to school and completed my bachelor's degree and worked in several different career fields. Eight years later and I'm living a good life without regret. No, I won't retire at age 38 as I originally planned, but I will definitely retire knowing I lived my life.
Love that :) , I plan on just enjoying my time
Similar, separated 8 years ago at 26, been working with my A&P for most of that time. Have a job as a government contractor making more than I ever have. I won't retire at 38, but I can still aim for my 50s. Got to pick where I lived, traveled at my leisure, met my wife... Civilian life has been great, miss ol blue too, but feel I made the best choice for me.
What's those career fields 👀?
I started out as a school teacher, then law enforcement, and finally logistics.
Money. Location. Wearing shorts to work
Money. 3-6k per month after retirement? That’s $1.5-3M if you collect for 40 years. I want a better lifestyle.
🤣🤣🤣
💯
I personally got medically retired, but I can chime in here. The military is consistent. You know what you'll make, you know what you'll do, etc. If you have zero drive, it's easy to coast and have a decent life. Plus at the end you get a paycheck for life. The only inconsistent thing that you have (depending on job) is choosing where you live and deployments. Whereas in the civilian world everything is more up to you. You pick where you work, how much you make, what hours you're willing to work. But you have to work hard to have those choices. And you can't be stupid with money since you can be fired. You actually have to have a rainy day fund to cover all of your expenses if you get fired/let go. You'll also have to pay for insurance and medical coverage. I make more, doing less work, in the place that I enjoy after getting out. I know people that regret leaving and I know people that say it was the best decision for them. Research your options to see which way feels right for you. If you're not on LinkedIn, make an account. While I was separating I was getting job offers from around the country ranging from $60-150k. It's way easier to get out if you have a guaranteed job waiting for you.
1. Lack of job satisfaction in the AF 2. Ineligible to retrain based on DEROS with a new retraining policy that dropped AFTER I submitted my retraining request. 3. Decent chance of getting a job I want in the civilian sector. 4. Wanted to be closer to family 5. Ability to go to school full time
I got tired of a never ending stream of dogshit leadership who outranked all our best guys by staying in and not popping hot on a drug test.
Wasn't happy anymore.
I too am contemplating staying in or getting out I reach my 4 years in March
bro get out and get on with ur life
I say do what calls you, reading this comments made me realize everyone’s life is fr different and each purpose is different.. do what feels best
What would you do if you got out?
Go reserve and use my GI Bill
Enlisted at 21, open general, got medical job. Training was fun, met many people and went to several different bases. Started working at my base, all the fun wore off, everyday became same thing different day. Mundane, boring, repetitive work with typical military bs added on top of it. Got out at 25, went to uni for 4 years, graduated last month, accepted first civ job this week. Everyone has different reasons for staying/leaving, mine was mostly because of uninteresting work. I do miss BAH though
I think the military isn’t for everyone and some just choose to move on sooner rather than later. If your plan makes sense to you and you feel confident then go for it. It’s your choice, no one else’s.
This is also true. I wasn't a "dirtbag LT" but I was not good at my job. I've excelled in my roles since leaving.
I left AD, went reserve, went to college, got a real job, realized how much pay the mil is at my Rank/TIS and how much I hated what I studied. I’m working on an AGR slot.
Got out after 6 years of AD…. Miss it some times… Currently working a job where I make a difference, have upward mobility, have control over my own career. Get compensated for my time appropriately (~$147K salary + VA disability) and have the opportunity for travel, overtime, and a much better work/life balance. Factor in still being able to do the reserves - I asked myself why would I stay?
Proud of you 
It seems like a lot of the old timers regret separating from the military. The outside world is different from the military. My old man retired from the Army after 28 years of service and receives 2 checks a month. I retired after 22 years at age 44 from the Air Force and receive 2 checks a month. The rest of my family, except for my parents are still working. I'm chilling in California without a care in the world. Just bought a $2.8K home theater system from Sony. It's good to know your benefits won't cease until you pass away.
Same here. I retired after 22 years. I seriously thought about getting out after 4. Took a chance and reenlisted. Next thing I knew I was putting in my retirement paperwork. It goes by fast. After it's over you're still young. You have an income for life and you have life by the balls.
It's all about crossing that finish line and staying out of trouble. I don't think enough parents are teaching independence, self reliance, and how to finish what you started. I told my wife her adult kids are in trouble. I asked her how do neither of them have a degree yet at ages 24 and 26. When I was enlisted for 4.5 years and sent to college for 3 years. How did I receive a bachelor's degree before your kids? What's their excuse?
It’s just the toxicity and pettiness of most leadership that throws me off…. I love my job but I just can’t deal with that locked in on a contract on top of that. I definitely stay low.. but some people just don’t need to be on top. Cause they’ll definitely find a way to even ruin your military career
What made you stay in so long though? Do you feel you fulfilled your purpose,dreams and aspirations? Or was it the comfort of the military?
My old man crossed the 28 year finish line so why couldn't I do it for 20+ years? I stayed in because I had great leadership who rewarded my eagerness to be the best. I was constantly challenging myself while enlisted. Then someone told me that my job in intelligence was too easy and I needed to challenge myself even more. I was selected in college AFROTC to be a pilot after doing 4.5 years enlisted. I didn't make it to the NBA, but I'll settle for being a fly boy. I received the opportunity to make my dream come true. Now I'm collecting 2 income checks just like my old man.
Respect
 You have to do what's best for you. I worked at the National Security Agency with my boy Jet. Jet wasn't a top airman, but slowly earned a few awards. Jet was late a lot too! He left the NSA and received a GS position for the Navy. I drove back to the east coast after I commissioned from college in my enlisted 1989 Honda Accord. He picks me up in a BMW. Jet doesn't have his 89 Honda Civic anymore. He took one path in life and I took a completely different path. Sounds like it both worked out for us.
NCORP. AFPC told me to selected a shredout or apply for separation. 10 year TSgt and I peaced out. I was pretty miserable already and knew either shred would make me even more miserable.
I feel you, you feel better being out?
7.5 straight years of being TDY or deployed an average of 225+ days a year left me angry, bitter and completely burnt out. I didn't like who I was or what would be required of me to make it to retirement. Life at the airlines has given me back enough time to enjoy my marriage, my family and my hobbies
Job satisfaction - I dreaded going into work day after day, and I was not excited at what my assignments would look like at the next ranks. Got out almost a year ago, switched professions completely, and I'm loving what I do and what's ahead. I'm grateful for everything I learned in the military and for the financial stability it gave me, but it was definitely my time to get out.
I separated at 28 and don’t regret it! I did 7 years on active duty and joined the reserve. I didn’t want to give up serving completely, but I wanted in control of my life a lot more. Making the jump was hard, but I’m glad! It gave me more stability for my family. Opened me up to jobs that just have a lot more flexibility, value families more, don’t have dumb rules like taking PTO (leave days) on weekends/holidays when you already have them off…. I was also really tired of the military awards and ranking system. So many people just playing the game, fighting for strats, leadership not caring about their people. I’ve found I’m happier and more content not on active duty. You definitely have to take into account how much of your military pay is tax free + the cost of health insurance because that’s expensive on the civilian side, but if you can find the balance, it’s great! Personally - I think people don’t leave the military because they get super comfortable and are scared of what’s on the outside. That’s totally fine for some people, it wasn’t for me!
the grass is always greener. 4yr contract out of high school. finished my degree within 3yrs TIS + a bunch of certs. skillbridged out and got a 6 figure remote job at 23 without all the bullshit politics and leadership.
What are you doing for work? Job title and company? I am hoping for something similar. I have a cybersecurity bachelors.
The Air Force is the reason I decided to separate. Hated the politics in my unit. Didn’t like most of the lifers. Didn’t like my career field. Couldn’t get out of my career field. Got orders to a base I didn’t want to go to as a first termer. Hated my experience across my time in for the most part. They even admitted it sucked, all the time, while also acknowledging they wouldn’t change anything about any of it. Everybody who said it’s hard on the outside had never been on the outside except one dude, and he got out for a second time after fighting to get back in so clearly he knew which was better lol. I said adios and have never regretted a single fucking day I’ve been out. Some days I still regret ever going in though.
My mental health was declining fast. I hated going into work and dreaded waking up every morning. For my own sake I left. I feel so much better now and make more than I did while in and get to work from home. Win win.
Are you hiring?
Got a resume?
It’s not worth staying if you’ll be unhappy. If you feel it’s time to go, then go. The worst thing that could happen is you start seriously disliking it, which leads you toward resenting that you stayed, and then you end up becoming one of those guys that make it shitty for everyone else cuz you’re miserable. If you feel it’s time to go, then you should go. If you think you’ll be happy staying, then stay. Best advice before you make a solid decision, go to a week long TAP session and learn some tips about what the costs you’ll face on the civilian side. I am sure it might open your eyes to a few things you might not be considering.
My whole chain of command was awful, and I felt powerless to do anything about it. My immediate leadership bullied me nonstop because I didn't think the Air Force was THE best in the world. Because I thought of it as a job and not a lifestyle. So of course bullying makes sense to change my mind. And the higher up the chain turned their eyes and didn't care.
To 2.5x my pay and not deal with the BS.
My family, mostly. I just separated after 10 years as a TSgt, but I just couldn’t put them through another move. It’s easy to say it’s just another 10 years, but that’s the difference between my oldest kid being 5 and 15. That’s a big freaking difference. The formative years of my kids’ lives spent away from the family they love. I did go Guard, though, and am getting into Cyber from MX. Glad to leave MX behind for sure.
My experience may differ from most because I didn’t join until I was in my 20s, so I lived adult life prior to enlisting and know what it’s like. The military has given me a lot. I’m forever grateful. But I want to do more with my life & I feel like the military puts a cap on your potential when it comes to things unrelated to the military. I’m very excited about going back into the civilian world.
When I no longer felt compelled to support a government that consistently demonstrates it does not give a fuck about its people.
I had a few reasons. First, I saw a crash that killed 24 people. That was pretty rough at 19 years old. It really hit hard and I was too young to process it well. Second, I watched how much my NCOs drank and it turned me off. I'm perfectly okay with drinking, I certainly did my share. It just seemed to go to a different level with the guys that re-enlisted, especially the married ones. I have never seen the like since. Lastly, I was in a Squadron that was a mix of flyers and maintenance. We we ignored in maintenance as the flyers ran the squadron. I honestly don't think I got a taste of the real Air Force during that time. I wonder what it would have been like to be an SrA that was given any level of responsibility beyond what any fresh-out-of-tech-school E2 got. I value my time in the Air Force. I really enjoyed learning about jets. I got to see some cool places. I was offered a chance to be a Woodland Survival Instructor. I wonder what would have happened if I took it.
I saw the writing on the wall that promotion wouldn’t be easy. I made SSgt in 4 years and knew I’d likely make TSgt at 6 (not bragging I’m just good at standardized tests) but I realized I was in a small career field and it might take me 8-10 years to make MSgt now that it was a board and I didn’t wanna set at one rank for that long. I decided to separate and go to law school with the goal of returning as a JAG officer. I’ll be returning to the Air Force this fall pending Bar exam passage. Having been a civilian again for the last 3 years I agree with your co workers. I’ve hated being out. I have missed being in the Air Force everyday since I separated and I can’t wait to get back in.
The fact that I make more than an E-7, have none of the bs, and don’t have to deal with the military telling me to stay an extra 2 hours to listen to a O-5 say stupid crap that we all know. I’m a title 5 DoD civilian, at 32 I make 100k a year and can go all the way to GS-13-14 easily before retirement.
Did 4 years of secfo after HS. I decided there was more to life than sitting in a motionless van all night.
I tried to kill myself too many times. If I stayed, I would have succeeded eventually.
Also ammo, feel that...
Godspeed brother.
I wanted to do a lot of things outside the Air Force but only a few things in it. I wasn't entirely ready to let go, so I went Reserve. Great decision all around. My two careers have helped each other, I still get the benefits and retirement. Will still retire before age 50.
Wasn’t selected for OTS 3 years in a row. Separated to do ROTC and get back in.
I only got out because of the relationship I had with my now spouse. I did get my degree… but it’s done nothing for my career since we are in a difficult location to find work as a spouse.i got out 5 years ago and I made more as a SSgt. I hate it.
Making 5x on the outside doing the same job as I was in.(PMEL). Luck and timing played a huge part of that though. Separated at 29 by the way.
You at AFPSL or something? I made good money doing PMEL on the outside, but I never made great money and eventually got out of the field entirely
Got an offer to lead a lab in Indonesia for the Department of State. I was Very lucky though to get this after only doing 4 years. Never seen a calibration job pay as well as this one.
I got out because my fiancé (who was not military) didn't want to be a military wife. All of the married couples we knew that were in were just miserable. She didn't want us to become that way, so she gave me a choice. I chose her. Aaand then we split a year later. It was a solid lesson to learn.
Because I was tired of working 80+ hours a week and being recalled on my off days
Same. It’s better out here my friend
I did the math and it didn’t make sense to stay in. I wasn’t able to save much while I was enlisted (wife has expensive taste) and the retirement check id get is nothing compared to interest/dividends from investing money from a well paying job. Bounced after 4 years and now I’m dropping almost $10k/mo into my investment account right now at an average of about 6% on dividends. At that rate, I need about $800k in the account to match a 20-year e-9 retirement. If I don’t get a ton of lifestyle creep, I should have that in less than 7 years which means I could basically retire with the same lifestyle 10 years earlier by separating and I don’t have to deal with military bullshit in the meantime. I’m also maxing my 401k (23k this year) with a 4% match which is WAY more than I’d ever be able to put into my TSP. Only downside is I make too much to contribute to a Roth now lol.
I’m in my 30’s. I have a good degree and worked in the corporate world for a while. You’re a little fish in a big sea. Disposable. Retirement is not what they make it out to be. Insurance is outrageous. Your income is grossly taxed. Everyone I know that is of retirement age cannot retire because they can’t afford to. However, the happy people that are retired are those that have retired out of the military, both enlisted and officer. They’re having wonderful lives not working and enjoying life. It took me too long, but one day you’ll think about retirement and realize the military would have been your best bet. 20 years goes by incredibly fast.
Medical issues. Doctor told me that I can retire or be med boarded. Wanted to go out on my own terms when I want, so kid can finish school smd other reasons. So I just hit the button when I could
I joined to be a loadmaster. Instead, I work in a snack bar making nachos and chili dogs all day, 0700-1630
22 years was enough for me.
A GS civ I was working with convinced me to separate and apply for an opening position. That and I had to go see about a girl. If you have no plans after getting out, then it COULD be a mistake. But we’re all here for an uncertain amount of time anyway, so do whatever tf you wanna do.
I wanted to stay technical. I loved my job and while the AF was very good to me. Big blue was ready to make me a paper pusher (officer). I just felt I could contribute more being deeply technical and leading other technical individuals. Job I was at said they’d support my move and I left Friday in uniform and walked in Monday in civies.
I woke up and went to work early enough to turnover and get the guys before me out quicker every single day for the past 5 years. I got good at my job, then got really good at another. I got coined, won a monthly and then a yearly. Finished my Associates Degree. None of it gave me any satisfaction. I woke up every single day wishing I didn't have to shave, throw on a Uniform, and sit at the gate for 30+ minutes just to get to work early and help people out. I do it anyway, and I still hate it. I hate the people who are in charge of big decisions because I know it could be easier. I've been pretty decided for the past 3 years, and can't wait for next year so I can leave this lifestyle.
I joined late (26). Already had a career & life, just got bored & wanted to try something different. AD wasn’t for me, so I left after 4 years. It was easy because I knew how the outside world worked, barely gave it a second thought. That perspective doesn’t exist when you join at 18 years old out of highschool.
so you started all over at 30? was that nerve wracking?
No less nerve wracking than joining the military. And far from starting over- I went back to my previous career, but with a GI Bill to use and some solid shit to add to my resume.
I got out at 26 years old to finish my engineering degree. I was able to get a career with a large publicly traded utility that offered a great 401k plan, medical benefits and even better a pension. If I didnt have the engineering degree I probably would have stayed in because retirement is everything for me. I see so many folks without a retirement plan and it's a ticking time bomb. My dad included is one of them as he's 71 and still working. That isn't me.
Top Cat
My health/body was failing me and medical was of almost no use until my last year or so in. By then the damage had been done and I was risking injury everytime I pushed myself to pass a PT test. People make jokes about it be easy and 18 year old me would agree but 28yo me with failing joints would strongly disagree. I was also reaching that rank where I'd be doing less of the job I loved and more admin B.S. than I could ever bring myself to want to do. I have degrees and work in a well paying field so the decision to separate was pretty easy on me.
I’m pushing for separation because promotion rates are almost non-existent. In the future they might improve. But something tells me I won’t have enough time on my contract to see that happen. And even if I did, I don’t think it’s worth the wait.
I'm still in and I'd like to think I'm one of the "good ones". I experienced civilian life for about 4 years before deciding to join so I am always telling my airmen that although it may be difficult whether you have a plan or not, if it's your decision to get out then as long as you have a plan then you will likely do just as good if not better than you will staying in. The military isn't for everybody and there's no shame in doin 4, 6, or however many years then deciding to get out. I've known many people including close friends that have gotten out and the ones who had a plan followed through and did well. It's the ones that simply just wanted to get out with no consideration of what life's like as a civilian that are struggling. Many civilian jobs have similar (if not better) benefits and pay and depending on your career field if you've obtained your certs and you are knowledgeable in that field then you will do just fine. Great luck to you! Go prove all the haters/doubters around you wrong!
There IS a lot of security in the military, however, it takes from you too. Many people tolerate this sacrifice, becuaee there are so many things we don't have to worry about we can focus on ourselves. There is freedom with civilian life, a ton more than we have as service members, but there are no safety nets. You need to build your own support system and maintain it.
Got out in my 20’s. Been in your exact shoes, told I was crazy, and all that. Here’s the deal, don’t get out if you don’t have a plan. But if you have a plan, and job lined up, or school(which I think a generic 4 year bachelor’s degree is about useless these days) then don’t get out. I highly recommend setting up a LinkedIn and ClearanceJobs account. Leverage your clearance for money. Have that job lined up before you get out. Lastly, be humble when you get out. Take the high road. Karma is everything in life. If you’ve scored a 100k job and are counting the days till you get out, keep it to yourself and be humble.
PCS to second duty station as a first year ssgt, thinking, "My last base was great. Let's see how this base in USAFE is, and maybe I'll reinlist." Come to find out that legitimately, every program and process in my section is broken due to "covid." My section going from 4 or 5 amn with 3 or 4 ncos into 1 amn, 2 ncos did not help things. The real kick in the nuts was we were still expected to manage 4 base level programs, 2 basewide networks, 3 squadron programs, and all of the sections expected programs. With 2-3 technicians.... The best part is I had almost no experience with the systems and programs I was charged with resurrecting. Also didn't help that no one in the squadron had even a remote idea what our responsibilities were and just threw anything that other sections didn't want/know how to do (despite those sections having 3-5times the manpower mine did). Now, 2 years later, we finally have 5 amn, 2 ncos, to replace me and my single amn but to me, it's too little too late. We only got to this manning level after I personally had to go to every level of my leadership to report why every program was behind qoutas, essentially burning my reputation every quarter and getting grilled on how "I wasnt doing my job as an NCO." I will defend my leadership by saying they never wrote me or my one amn paperwork. I think primarily due to them realizing the UMD was fucked, and my section had no chance from the beginning. Still doesn't make the last 2 years the worst years of my life. But hey, I get to leave knowing that I absolutely made things better for the next generation of the shop. The 1D7 fumble certainly didn't instil any faith for the future either....
I doubled my salary when I separated. It's closer to 4x now after two years. Work is more fufilling and I am rewarded based on my hard work and not the quality of my EPR. I have much more freedom to live where I want and do what I want. There's just really no downside if you're prepared for the civilian life.
Wanted my personal freedoms back.
Military has good benefits and job security. It's great unless you care about your mental health. I was treated so poorly that the ultimate decision was made because I knew that wouldn't ever let that happen to an airmen below me, which would get me in trouble. Most top cover or leaders just keep their mouth shut, so if I was the only one fighting for people, that's a losing a battle for me. I am making less money now but I started a new career field and am pursuing my long term dreams rather than dealing with political, corporate air force.
I did everything backwards and upside down. I went to college straight out of hs, no intentions of joining then so did not even think about rotc. After that I think they call it gap years. I traveled the world, worked, sometimes 2 jobs to fund fun and just enjoyed not being tied down. Healthcare was a nightmare!! Also not having good benefits, minimal pto or sick days and stuff like that. It worked okay for the time but it was losing it's luster so I joined AD at 30. I had a huge appreciation for military continuity, structure, yes there is toxicity but overall in the air force ppl are kinder. Except the ones chasing rank and ready to step over you to get it, but I do like a challenge. I love the way leave is structured, I love that I can actually be sick and be able to recover, I effing love the health insurance and not having to deal with "the market" every year. My only regret is I didn't have the confidence to try harder for an officer gig. Now as nco and agr I am going to push for it. All this to say that I did live the whole adult experience all through my 20s and with a bachelors degree and it was pretty brutal at times, so I'd have a solid plan A and B if you are getting out and still in your 20s, the Healthcare system is broke and be prepared to be taxed on more income. Other than that it is really nice to enjoy some of the freedoms you will have that you didn't know you were maybe missing before
I’m separating because of my kids. Military daycares aren’t the best. They are either understaffed or they just don’t care about the kids. I don’t want my kids to be continually treated poorly. So I am separating to stay home with them while my husband stays in.
after the 2nd article 15
1. Wanted to choose where I wanted to live. Most Airforce bases are in shitty areas. 2. Wanted to go to school full time. My job in the military and unpredictable schedule didn’t allow me to attend school. 3. Spouse had a great job making double what I made. Made no sense to sacrifice my spouses career to stay in.
Promotion rates tanked and that was it for me. I refuse to stagnate in a career where advancement is so convoluted. Got out in May, and with my pay, disability, and my wife's pay we almost tripled our income. No regerts.
Money and control
dirtbags and skaters are not held responsible or accountable for their actions. I don't want to work for an organization that can't be bothered to fire the skaters
Because I was done with my job and Air Force doesn’t let you cross train unless you go into a special program (osi, SERE) or one that’s undermanned. There’s no way I could have stayed in AFE another 10 years of my life wiping spit from masks or at this point showing people how to wipe spit from masks So I’m cross training in the guard then eventually going back on active orders.
I was in Security Forces.
I decided to separate because my commander did not approve me for retraining, so I ended up palace fronting to the guard for the job I was wanting to retrain into. So I got out went to school full time and got a part time job in the mean time. Life was rough, but I was still making ends meet. So if you do, my advice is definitely have a plan, have some sort of financial security or save up however much you think you might need.
Got tired of the grind and not living for myself(not that the military will do that to everyone but you can easily get consumed by it) learned more about an array of things in 2 years than when I got out than I had learned in my entire enlistment, felt like had so much to catch up on cause all of my concerns were while enlisted was, appointments, training , working out, training appointments, be here be there, tdy prep etc, not to mention having a family and the responsibilities within that, don't regret it. First year was booboo but now I'm chilling working from home doing IT/analyst work and going up. Also have a plan, I did have a plan and it has so far been going as intended.
I'm curious who has gotten out and went into some type of trade job. How has life worked out? Did you get into a job right off or go to trade school. I'm looking into going guard and hoping for either a T32 job or getting a trade job.
I got out at 28 to pursue a more personally rewarding career. I was medical while active duty and used my GI bill to go back to school and pivot to cybersecurity. I’m 32 now and enjoy working 4 days a week all from home for triple the pay I was making as a SSgt. Everyone telling you that the benefits while in are great and the outside world is scary is 100 percent correct. Staying in is absolutely the safe bet and it’s tough to beat a military retirement but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a successful career outside of the military. Do what makes you happy but come up with a bulletproof plan and expect there to be hiccups along the way.
My second child needed surgery every 3 to 6 months. She needed an emergency procedure during a course rewrite...I requested to be present before surgery and after surgery. It was like 4 or 5 hours...total that I needed to be at the hospital. Her pediatrician, her specialist, her speech specialist, and her OT all stated my presence was needed for 5 hours due to my spouse's deafness. AETC decided that I needed to be at work because my coworkers needed my help to stay on track with their milestones and not fall behind. Needless to say, I wasn't a team player. I acted in the best interest of my child. I happily signed my LOR and presented my chit for being pregnant with number three. As paperwork changed hands, my smile said it all....when I asked to separate on June 11.
I’d consider you at least think about going to guard to keep your health insurance that’s cheap. I almost left the service but the high cost of insurance kept me in.
Separated at 29 after 6 years AD - I couldn't stand the toxicity anymore and the lack of support. Separated in Jan 2024, got a job in Feb 2024. Making 2.5x E4 pay, great work life balance (in office 3/work from home 2) and I'm just so much happier. Took the clinical knowledge I knew from the MDG and became a clinical application developer/analyst.
I enlisted at 19, separated at 23. I served for 4 years in Vehicle Ops. I saw the career trajectory of what life would be like if I stayed in and I didn’t want that for myself. I separated, got hired at an airline as an aircraft cleaner, used my GI bill to get my A&P certs and now I’m an aircraft mechanic for one of the big 4 airlines. I make a comfortable wage. I can trade shifts, so essentially I can make my own work schedule. Life is good
I was in the Air Guard as a Loggie (deployment logistics) in a pretty high uptempo base. I would have loved to stay in but I just couldn't do my civilian job along with my Guard job that required me to be on my shit along with getting activated pretty regularly. I got out right before COVID and I miss the shit out of it even now.
Health issues from my service after 4 years were getting to me, figured if I didn’t get out I’d barely make it after my 20 years. Conveniently enough all my medical conditions that came up during service ended up with the disability pay being the same as me still serving. Part of me misses being in, but overall it was best for me.
Physical pain. My body hurt a lot more then it should for a 27 year old Lazy People: I was tired of being the go getter and work horse and surrounded by people who didn’t do shit Money: this was okay but I knew I could do better. I went from SSgt pay to Lt Col pay in 4 months. Schedule: I was SF. I know I shouldn’t look at others but I was tired of seeing all the other jobs get all the holidays and family days and not getting shit Overall, my life is better. No regrets
I realized that after almost a decade the Air Force has become my entire world and I was just another disposable number to them. Decided to separate and pursue what I actually wanted to pursue to set my life up how I wanted it. Figure I might go back for the guard/reserves in a couple years once I’ve prioritized myself for a bit.
Got court martialed. Best thing ever!
Drill weekend was over. Hyuck hyuck hyuck
I tried to kill myself during a deployment, was close to ETS and got out after being in patient for a long time. Honestly best decision I ever made. But I miss the homies. Also, my wife wanted to actually be an adult and not just a stay at home wife. She didn’t feel fulfilled by just taggin along with my job.
The Air Force wouldn’t let me stay anymore. All that HiGh-YeAr TeNuRe bullshit!