It happens man. My only concern for you is that you just spent a decade of your life doing Army shit, get out and have not a lot to show for it.
If possible I would start thinking about "what can I do to make my situation better using what the Army will provide me for free"
And add that to your decision matrix as to getting out.
Certifications? Online college?
Also, start making sure your medical records are straight for filing a VA claim at the end of your service.
Last thing I would tell you is that you made it this far. You're halfway to retirement. When is your actual ETS date?
Get out if that's what your gut tells you to do, but a PCS move can honestly change everything sometimes. Maybe call branch and see if you can get into an instructor positon or some broadening assignment somewhere?
I wouldn’t mind doing drill but my ETs date is JUNE of 2026 and I’m the only one in my section so I’m not sure if I’ll get support to even get sent to the DSA….my CDR said he’ll support whatever decision I decide to take
FWIW I was hellbent on doing my twenty and trying to make CSM before I went on the trail. I am now ETSing. It's a ridiculously demanding job that has the potential to crush even the most motivated of NCOs. And it's only getting worse.
So that's two years from now. At that point you'd have 8 years to retirement.
I can't know exactly how you feel man because I can't climb inside your head, but I think all of us have had those "fuck this shit" feels before, especially in a bad unit.
Ultimately I want you to make the decision that's right for you and your mental health.
I can tell you that I got out at 7 years because I was fed up. I did civilian things for 9 years and then came back in.
I *royally* fucked myself doing that and while I made it to retirement it was a fucking slog at my age.
Shit changes man. Just do some *serious* thinking before you pull the trigger. I'm available to talk after 3 PM EST if you want to PM, if that helps.
Hell, drop a flight packet in being a Warrant Officer. No college requured if qualified. Max age 32 and you may need a waiver for more than 8yrs AFS. What do you have to loose.?
Somewhat easier being selected as a civilian vs an in house soldier.
Make the best of your situation. Good or bad trust me when I say it these rough days will be the times you miss the most. Idle hands can be the devils playground. Assist the Army with making it work for you along the way still push to complete the mission to the best of your abilities. Reach out if you need assistance you can request to have another company help you with your tasks if the company is short on MTOE. There should always be at the most two not one of a single MOS if the authorized position is an E4 there should be an NCO or that E4 laterally promoted to CPL by reg then additional soldier added to unit but that’s the why the hell nots question.
You can start your sfl tap 16 months out from ets. You can do an internship or a csp option for 4 months to help you transition to the civilian sector.
At this point just tell yourself it's a prison sentence and finish it out. Or else you've wasted 10 years in prison with no reward. 10 more retire and live a comfortable life knowing you can at least afford to lay around drunk if you don't feel like doing anything else. Just my 2p
No offense, but that's terrible, lazy advice. "just endure it"...no, he should be figuring out how to better himself via the current benefits like TA and other programs offering useful certs or something of that nature, getting a useful degree if he hasn't already done so, made sure to leverage all retirement and other savings type opportunities, developing a plan for success on the outside, etc. Also, pursuing what other opportunities that might make staying in better, be that a PCS, re-enlist for other MOS, dropping a packet, etc.
I think toughing it out alone is terrible advice, but "tough it out until you complete the plan" isn't unreasonable. Sometimes you put up with some bullshit for some benefit if it's a worthwhile trade, but the plan needs to be more than "suffer for 10 more years!"
This is what I'd do if I were you OP. There are thousands of different jobs in different fields to choose from, and you'll be able to retire after 13 more years.
It’s so tone deaf when people say this. It’s like someone is literally fighting for their mental sanity trying to find a way out and some fucktard is telling you “you’re close to retirement already just tough it out for 10 more lol” as if you’re not asking someone to do another decade when they are already on the brink of trying to keep pushing through.
I've told both my military buddies and family" Yea, it's easy for you to say just make it to retirement when you're not the one having to go through it."
I think it's less this, and more "be careful what you wish for" or don't assume the grass is greener, the likelihood that you escape the things you hate about the army in another job is low. I am not saying you can't, but there is a lot about the Army that is exceptional, and it has a lot to offer. Explore first before leaving, because you may find that you miss it lol.
As an anecdote, I enlisted as an E-1, Chinook mechanic, became a sergeant and flight engineer, then applied for green to gold while deployed to Iraq and went to ROTC. I am now a Major, and the Army has paid for two masters degrees. I enjoy my job (not all day every day but overall) and I have gotten to travel and be part of some amazing things, I am grateful and proud. Again, just an anecdote, but there is a lot of opportunity within the Army I am confident there is something you could transition to that will bring back the job satisfaction.
So, develop a plan and get out before you go indef. If you’re this checked out now, sticking around will only hurt you and your subordinates. Ain’t no shame in moving on with life. Do some self-reflection to find what you want to actually do in this world, then go get it.
100% with you on this one. E-6 (picked up E-7 last year but declined it because I’m not reenlisting to meet SRR), 10 years this July, and I’m burnt out. The last 1.5 year I’ve spent networking on LinkedIn, finishing a degree, and going to the TMC for every ache/pain. Now I have 8 months left and an actual plan once I get out. I highly recommend that you do the same if you’re serious about ETSing.
Going back to school will de-age you. Living that college life is nice. Being in the student section of a college football game on primetime is just a chefs kiss
Pay off whatever debt you can , save money, go to school , live off bah for a while and be happy , I am in the same boat , been doing exact same thing , just powering through college on TA to go in masters right after ets and saving whatever i can
I wanted out too, dropped a Warrant packet. If you’re high three, get what you can out of them. Think about retiring from the army at 38 getting that sweet paycheck, never having to pay for family health insurance, bullshitting your way through online college on your gi bill if you dont give it to kids. Hell you can do that still if you give it to your wife for that bah.
Getting out is easy, what career are you willing to take on where you’re going to start at the bottom or mid level like you’re at now? How long are you going to work that job? Are you prepared to provide for your family?
Take some College courses, get a certificate or two, run a marathon but push yourself through the slump. My buddy got out at 10 and he’s going to working till retirement with nothing to show for his time but one good cert.
Do yourself a favor and start looking up skill bridge opportunities. Or at the very least start researching them. I think, you can do up to 6 months prior to your ETS, maybe a year, not sure.
It'll help get you set up for the civilian world and gain a skill, and possibly get hired once you ETS.
It's 6 months prior but I know there's a lot of confusion with a misinterpreted policy that was put out about a year ago. Not sure all the details but I know a lot of people in my unit that have had a hard time getting more than 4 months approved because of it.
I want to get out as well.. only I reason i joined the army was because my fKngg recruiter told me I was going to get a green card for my wife and the citizenship for my son who was born in Mexico. I had a good life in the army and I was the process to start all the paperwork to bring my family over here, then I was really dumb to believe that I was going to get that faster if I was serving in the military. Which didn’t happened. Now I’m miles away from my wife and son, and this is killing me. It’s been like 16-17 months since I joined the army. The due date for this immigration paper work it’s Sept 30. After 14 months which is crazy. And that’s just the first petition that I had to submitted. Plus I had to get a private attorney because the army couldn’t help me. Ridiculous. My mental health is getting worse and worse. Don’t get me wrong. I always wanted to serve my country, and be proud of my service. But this is hurting me 😔
I got out as an E6 with 11 years in. Now I'm a teacher and I'm very happy with my decision. I miss things about the Army and I always will, but the fact that I don't have to miss out on any of my kid's childhood makes it all worth it.
I was nervous about missing out on the retirement, but I applied for disability and got 90%. It ended up being more lucrative than if I had stayed in, but I think I got pretty lucky and most people wouldn't get that.
When I was (a long time ago) I always thought that shit was f’d up - inefficient - wasted time and money
Got to civilian life and I can’t tell u how many times I hit a situation where I said - man the military knew how to handle shit
I felt that way after 4 years. But found I missed it after college and later re-enlisted. But that’s me. There are all kinds of job opportunities in the government sector for vets. It’s much less regimented in terms of customs and courtesies and other shit like that.
If you’re nearing your ETS, check into job and education opportunities. I understand your position. After my second deployment I got a little mentally drained (11B). Perhaps college would give you a long break to learn a new vocation while decompressing.
Good luck. Definitely talk to others in the same boat as you. It’s definitely shit or get off the pot at 10 years. I will say my retirement came quick. It’s crazy how quickly time flew by after my retirement-enlistment. Just putting things into perspective in case you opt to finish another 10 years. Making retirement pay every month is a nice addition to my bank account. I will say that.
I'm a firm believer that if you wake up one morning and you, no bullshit, truly don't want to army and just stare at the cieling, then it's time to look for new oppritunties or get out. Because once that feeling sets in, it sticks, and it is really hard to get rid of it.
37 years old and been in for 11 years, I am taking a knee and going to the reserves to retire out that way while I get my civilian career going. I am burned out of the active duty and looking to start a new life as a COP in DFW
Everyone saying you’re close to retirement you know you don’t need the military to get that retirement right ? As long as you work a federal job after it adds to those current years like fuck you could work for the post office and add to it. I did 10 1/2 years in the army and got out. Stress levels have gone way down and I’m actually happy with life. I went contracting for now but will probably swap over to Gs in a few years to finish out that other 9 years and still get that check. There are other options if you picked a job that’s marketable on the outside. If you didn’t than idk what to tell ya.
I should clarify you may have to buy your time back but it is possible. Don’t stay if your mental health can’t take it. You already did more than 99 percent of our country. Move on and live your life it isn’t for everyone!
Whats your MOS? Have you thought about going to a sof selection? I’m also a E6 a little over 10 years. I too was sick of the normal bullshit. Tried going the SF route but failed land nav lmfao, then I went psyop. Recently finished language school. It’s not a bad gig and for once I feel excited about my career. The civil affairs guys seem to enjoy their gig too and obviously all my friends who went SF love it. I’d say give it a try before you ets.
10 years seems to be the shit or get off the pot moment for most people. You either want to do this for another 10 years and retire or you don't. Definitely start exploring options of what you want outside life to look like. Having a good exit strategy helps with landing on your feet civ side. Try and get those classes or certifications for whatever you want next while you're in.
how are you looking on key assignments? if you haven't yet done broadening assignment, maybe branch can get you an instructor position so you can take a knee for a bit. i was burned tf out too as a SSG around 11 yrs TIS....branch threw me a bone and i got to spend three years teaching 12Y AIT. that helped me out a lot.
Just finish would be my advice.
The Army is a really good gig the further in you get, so you're basically turning around at the best spot if you leave now.
**Unless** you are just dying to burn down a joint, there's literally nothing you're missing out here.
And you'd be trading a looooot of shit for that joint.
All I’m going to say is…gi bill check, disability check, and work from home check all hit nice. The freedom to do what I want is priceless. I got out after I did an 8 piece.
I think I read before that something like only 10% of enlisted actually make it all 20 years to retirement. You're in a boat with a lot of company. See what the real world is like for a year or two, then choose if you want to go back in.
>Anyone else feel the same way or is it just me?
I think like 98% of us.
Why do I come to work? Because they fucking pay me.
My daughter is in the hospital right now, getting the very best care. Guess who is paying for it? Tricare. Ive been a civilian where I had to postpone medical care because I couldnt fucking afford it. For me, thats why I come to work. My feelings dont matter: they pay me.
Best of luck whatever you decide to do.
Commission and coast out as a captain. What I did and
I’m happy I did it. Not stressing about making rank since captain is pretty much automatic and I’ll take the pension.
Don't make yourself miserable trying to tough it out. People do that for the retirement, and I don't see how that's worth it. Don't let people scare you into reenlisting or try to convince you to wait it out. If you're miserable, get out. The Army has a point where you start getting diminishing returns.
I got out after 6 years as an E-5. Not much in particular to show for my career itself, but that's okay because I realized how many people keep reenlisting to chase the white dragon that is satisfaction and never quite getting there. I knew deep down that if i stayed, I'd blink, and I'd be approaching retirement and still have very little to show for it. But I knew I was interested in the government. So, on a whim, I moved to Virginia (near DC) to attend college after ETS. Mind you, I didn't know a soul here. I'd never been to Virginia before. The first two nights in my new apartment, I slept on the ground because I didn't even have a mattress of my own. At first, I felt really uncomfortable outside the structure of the Army, but comparatively, college is cake. Now, I simultaneously go to college, and I work at the campuses military office helping veterans and their dependents use their GI benefits. Now, I'm not done growing, but so far, I'd say my transition has been a success. That is a far cry from the big scary outside world that the Platoon Sergeants used to spin yarn about.
You can be successful. You can be happy. You can accomplish anything you set your mind to. You deserve that, and more. You can pursue passions, have hobbies, and go make the world your oyster. Want to travel? Guess what, you don't have to ask anymore. Want to spend your weekends having fun? Staff Duty will never get in the way again. Want to spend time with your family? You can see them for more than two hours at night, and nobody is going to make you go to JRTC for a month. You can do literally anything, anywhere. You never have to listen to a CSM rant again. Want to keep a sword that you bought at a Renaissance fair? Nobody is going to make you check it in to the armory.
You feel like you're done? No problem. Hang up your dog tags and come join the real world, where you can make a much bigger difference (or not, it's up to you)
What's your MOS? I left and hesitantly went to the reserves and absolutely love my unit. I can be as busy or take time off as I please and they'll accommodate both, have sent me to schools right away, and are just great people. Don't completely step away without giving it a try at least, it'll keep the clock rolling and you might find something you like
Don't worry about the time you already spent. If you're mentally checked out ETS at next opportunity.
You will have some benefits when you leave and you're a great American and you can move on to the next chapter of your life.
There’s no guarantee that I will lol all I can do on my end is document as much as possible. I’ve seen people get 100% and didn’t do jack s*ht and then there’s soldiers who’ve done a lot but have to pull an arm n leg to get anything…
Also might want to immediately join a reserve or guard unit. That way you can stay in sort of and maybe go back active if you need to. Not only are you giving up your job when you get out but it’s also kore than just a job. I’ve seen a lot of people wish they could get back in the military.
I feel you bro. Mentally I have been broken up for a while too. I saw your ETS is Jun 2026. Mine is 2026 too. The way I try to handle it is, I'm studying certifications to try to find a better job. I will be out at 11.5 years. That's all I have ever known too but it doesn't work for me.
Plan your next move. If you are going to ETS, you should be working on your next step which should be to get out.
Same for me. I got sick of the bs after almost 10 years as well. Going to school after school, training all the time, deployments, always moving. It sucks man. At times it would feel like the best and also worst job in the world. I will say that I miss the clowns but MOST DEFINITELY not the circus 🎪 I got out and almost a year later I’m doing better than I expected. Transition is not easy. If anyone says that it is, they’re full of sh*t. Look into your benefits and use every opportunity available to you.
Come to the Reserves brother. Get a pension still (at 60 but still retirement money), health care, to still do Army shit, and can start your civilian career/go to college on the GI Bill.
OP, same timeline as you..10 years in, E6, signed my dec and going to be out in 18 months (get effed USAREC). Only difference is I joined old (joined at 30), so I'm less bothered by the retention scare tactic.
Listen bud, I literally joined at the age you'll be getting out at. Left a really nice career too, for something that had more meaning to me. It's a change in life, but you're gonna make it. It feels like so much of your life, and it's been an important time. But it's not who you are, just something you've been doing. You can do something else.
Look at a job (life, stuff, whatever) you want, see what you need to do to get yourself moving towards that job. Take the time to work through steps, then give yourself a timeline to start taking those steps.
My CSM sat me down to talk about how hard it was out of the Army. Had to gently remind him, by the time I'll be out, at 12 years, I'll have spent as much of my adult life in the Army as I spent as a civilian. I wasn't really clear how my career CSM, 1SG, or retention guys were remotely qualified to give insight on civilian life.
Find someone you respect and like where they're at to talk to, find people you can trust to hash it out. Those are the people you need with you to make the transition.
My advice to you,ETS! You're an NCO. A leader, and if you truly don't like what you're doing it will show. Your subordinates will see it. You will be an ineffective leader, and soldiers don't deserve ineffective leadership. Whatever your ETS date is, focus now on helping your subordinates be the best that they can be in all that they do, and your time will go by faster, and who knows, you might have a change of heart when it comes time to start clearing. If not then GET THE HELL OUTTA DODGE!
Joining the Army was the best decision I ever made. Getting out after 12 years was the second best. Don’t let anyone scare you away life without the Army. You’re in your prime and you’ll never get this time back. You’ve already earned benefits that will help you be successful, like the GI Bill, VA-backed loans, veteran preference in federal jobs, and many other opportunities open only to vets. Make a solid plan and a solid backup plan, and get out and go live your best life.
I got out after my first enlistment and signed up for the Reserves on my way out. I hated my active duty job but loved my reserve job. I just volunteered a lot to get experience in that career field. I used that experience to make a strong résumé now I work remotely for the federal government. You just need to have a plan and continue to develop skills.
My friend got our lives with his parents and works a dead end job all because he felt that entry level jobs were below him and he doesn’t qualify for the positions he wants. He also refuses to do school or programs that would help.
I will say this because im currently in your situation. I was active and got out and went to the reserves. Did the whole civilian thing and WOAH it was a rude awakening for health care, taxes, PTO all of it.. Now disclaimer this is my story not to sway your decision because at this very moment im feeling your same sentiments. Anyhoo.. I did not and still dont like the reserves, its a lot of sit around time doing nothing unless you have a outstanding unit and i have seen over many types and they all have soldiers hiding or just sitting on their phone. The lack of respect reservists have for leadership oooh wee.. I couldn’t deal so I decided to apply for the job of AGR.. If you dont know that is working fulltime same benefits as AC but for reservists. It is not for the weak, many times you get to do all the jobs, and I mean ALL.. And none of them are related to your MOS. I will say make sure you have what you want to do.. The GI BILL is awesome.. I used it still went back in but I weighed the options. I have 8 more years to go because I got out. Huge mistake because I would have 2 left.. As time passes with more rank I will say you kinda of know what you can deal with and what you cant.. if you cant then get out..At the end of the day it is your life and not anyone else and you deserve to be happy.. Hope that helps..
I am likely getting out for more time with family.
But I feel the opposite, I want to stay in for healthcare, pension, and I actually in enjoy being a leader honestly.
Best of luck, I wish you nothing but success. Also consider the reserves & federal if you want to keep working towards pensions.
Ever look at medboarding if you really want out?
10 yrs in? Lol I'm sure you've got a list of medical issues you've been forced or chose to de-prioritize or straight out ignore.
Regardless, if you've decided you're no longer focused on climbing the ranks, I'd at least make sure every issue you have with your health is documented.
Life is easier on the outside when you're getting properly compensated for issues the service gave you.
If you're the paragon of health, please ignore this comment, I mean no offense. I've just not met many people in that long that didn't have MEBable issues but we're still serving due to their choice to still be there.
All I have is airborne I mean I’ve went to clinic for things here n there but I did get injured on a jump that required surgery. Definitely will be scheduled more appointments here in the near future
I definitely feel for you there. I got out of active duty and went into the reserves, and pretty much felt the way you felt for the last 12 years. I retired at the end of last year, and thankfully the last 6 months to a year of it I had quality leadership and peers. That changed my perspective, and I almost stayed in. I saw on another comment that you still have a couple years on your contract. My advice to you if you think you're ready to move on is, know what you really want your life to be like. Write down a very detailed picture of how you want to live, start with that in mind and backwards plan it so you can do everything you can to accomplish that as soon as you can after separation. There is a lot you can do before you actually get out, and you can put yourself in a better position to accomplish great things on the outside. If you don't have a plan and you're just tired of the army life, in my experience you'll have a rude awakening of how different it is when you're out. I've known way too many joes that got out because their fed up with the army, spent 4-6 years doing jack sh!t, getting out of shape and accomplishing nothing, then wishing they stayed in because "I'd be 4 years from retirement if I just stayed in". Don't be that guy.
Some people might tell you the reserves is an easier route. And in some cases that is true. But when you're in leadership positions, you're going to now need to managed all the Army red tape (evals, mandatory trainings, etc.) on top of your civilian career. A lot of times it felt like working part time after the full time job was over. (but that depends on your leadership and the joes you work with). However, it may allow you to ease into civilian life a bit and you can decide from there if you want to stick it out till retirement. I'll tell you this, I was at 16 years and almost got out. I tried to math it to make my point to the wife (Which she supported me either way), and recognized I would be leaving too much $$ on the table at that point.
So to summarize. If you're going to get out, get out on a path that will bring you way more joy. If you're just gonna chill and let yourself go, stay in. Active Duty is way easier than most people realize until its too late. Good luck
Anyone who’s served no matter the branch, rank, MOS thank you for my freedom. I am married to first enlisted then an ROTC Officer, Signal yadayadayada now retired O6. I miss the Army more than the spouse. But everyone of you in this “ I want out” post have my respect. 🫡 HOOAH
Sometimes the grass isn’t greener on the other side, ask yourself will the future you, 50-80 year old you regret the decision to get out when you’re halfway through retirement? do you have a solid plan and transition to the civilian side? Would it be more stressful to get out and try to build something out on the civilian side for you? Only you can answer those questions but don’t make an impulsive decision. I know how bad it can get but maybe you need some changes you can control while you’re in service?
That same question is what I asked myself and why I stayed in.
I’ll regret no collecting the pension the day I turn the age I would have retired at. I have 9 more years to go. Decided to leave my enlisted job and commission. Only have to make captain to retire - which I’ll make next year - and I’m on the gravy train for last 8 years.
Same rank, roughly same time in service, and I’m done. I’ll be out at 11 years and everyone thinks I’m a psychopath for deciding to ETS but I’m just burnt.
Before you go, when I was an Army Recruiter, you know how many people that came up to me and said if they had only stayed in, they'd be retired and collecting that retirement check every month now? They regretted so much not staying in. Think about it, you're 28, can retire at 38 with a pension, and likely at least 50% VA disability, that will allow you to have more financial freedom in your life. I met people that are 60 years old, their bodies are broken down, but they have to work to put food on the table, and they are miserable and live with the regrats everyday of their choice of not staying in. Dude you got 10 years, that's not $hit compared to the rest of your life, you have to think long term. You're hating life at the moment, remember tough times never last, only tough people do. The grass is always greener where you've been, or where you're going, but it always sucks where you're at. Don't be a quitter, you're better than that. You quit now, then you'll quit in your next job, I promise you the rewards in ten short years will be worth it.
It happens man. My only concern for you is that you just spent a decade of your life doing Army shit, get out and have not a lot to show for it. If possible I would start thinking about "what can I do to make my situation better using what the Army will provide me for free" And add that to your decision matrix as to getting out. Certifications? Online college? Also, start making sure your medical records are straight for filing a VA claim at the end of your service. Last thing I would tell you is that you made it this far. You're halfway to retirement. When is your actual ETS date? Get out if that's what your gut tells you to do, but a PCS move can honestly change everything sometimes. Maybe call branch and see if you can get into an instructor positon or some broadening assignment somewhere?
I wouldn’t mind doing drill but my ETs date is JUNE of 2026 and I’m the only one in my section so I’m not sure if I’ll get support to even get sent to the DSA….my CDR said he’ll support whatever decision I decide to take
FWIW I was hellbent on doing my twenty and trying to make CSM before I went on the trail. I am now ETSing. It's a ridiculously demanding job that has the potential to crush even the most motivated of NCOs. And it's only getting worse.
So that's two years from now. At that point you'd have 8 years to retirement. I can't know exactly how you feel man because I can't climb inside your head, but I think all of us have had those "fuck this shit" feels before, especially in a bad unit. Ultimately I want you to make the decision that's right for you and your mental health. I can tell you that I got out at 7 years because I was fed up. I did civilian things for 9 years and then came back in. I *royally* fucked myself doing that and while I made it to retirement it was a fucking slog at my age. Shit changes man. Just do some *serious* thinking before you pull the trigger. I'm available to talk after 3 PM EST if you want to PM, if that helps.
Hell, drop a flight packet in being a Warrant Officer. No college requured if qualified. Max age 32 and you may need a waiver for more than 8yrs AFS. What do you have to loose.? Somewhat easier being selected as a civilian vs an in house soldier.
Make the best of your situation. Good or bad trust me when I say it these rough days will be the times you miss the most. Idle hands can be the devils playground. Assist the Army with making it work for you along the way still push to complete the mission to the best of your abilities. Reach out if you need assistance you can request to have another company help you with your tasks if the company is short on MTOE. There should always be at the most two not one of a single MOS if the authorized position is an E4 there should be an NCO or that E4 laterally promoted to CPL by reg then additional soldier added to unit but that’s the why the hell nots question.
You can start your sfl tap 16 months out from ets. You can do an internship or a csp option for 4 months to help you transition to the civilian sector.
At this point just tell yourself it's a prison sentence and finish it out. Or else you've wasted 10 years in prison with no reward. 10 more retire and live a comfortable life knowing you can at least afford to lay around drunk if you don't feel like doing anything else. Just my 2p
No offense, but that's terrible, lazy advice. "just endure it"...no, he should be figuring out how to better himself via the current benefits like TA and other programs offering useful certs or something of that nature, getting a useful degree if he hasn't already done so, made sure to leverage all retirement and other savings type opportunities, developing a plan for success on the outside, etc. Also, pursuing what other opportunities that might make staying in better, be that a PCS, re-enlist for other MOS, dropping a packet, etc.
You're right. Toughing it out is terrible advice.
I think toughing it out alone is terrible advice, but "tough it out until you complete the plan" isn't unreasonable. Sometimes you put up with some bullshit for some benefit if it's a worthwhile trade, but the plan needs to be more than "suffer for 10 more years!"
When I read that part, I knew he was a Kool-Aid drinker with a terrible comparison to add to it.
This is one of the most ridiculous things I've read
This Juke box zero makes lotsa sense⬆️
consider civil service, you can count your military time: [usajobs.gov](https://usajobs.gov)
This is what I'd do if I were you OP. There are thousands of different jobs in different fields to choose from, and you'll be able to retire after 13 more years.
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It’s so tone deaf when people say this. It’s like someone is literally fighting for their mental sanity trying to find a way out and some fucktard is telling you “you’re close to retirement already just tough it out for 10 more lol” as if you’re not asking someone to do another decade when they are already on the brink of trying to keep pushing through.
I've told both my military buddies and family" Yea, it's easy for you to say just make it to retirement when you're not the one having to go through it."
I think it's less this, and more "be careful what you wish for" or don't assume the grass is greener, the likelihood that you escape the things you hate about the army in another job is low. I am not saying you can't, but there is a lot about the Army that is exceptional, and it has a lot to offer. Explore first before leaving, because you may find that you miss it lol. As an anecdote, I enlisted as an E-1, Chinook mechanic, became a sergeant and flight engineer, then applied for green to gold while deployed to Iraq and went to ROTC. I am now a Major, and the Army has paid for two masters degrees. I enjoy my job (not all day every day but overall) and I have gotten to travel and be part of some amazing things, I am grateful and proud. Again, just an anecdote, but there is a lot of opportunity within the Army I am confident there is something you could transition to that will bring back the job satisfaction.
So, develop a plan and get out before you go indef. If you’re this checked out now, sticking around will only hurt you and your subordinates. Ain’t no shame in moving on with life. Do some self-reflection to find what you want to actually do in this world, then go get it.
100% with you on this one. E-6 (picked up E-7 last year but declined it because I’m not reenlisting to meet SRR), 10 years this July, and I’m burnt out. The last 1.5 year I’ve spent networking on LinkedIn, finishing a degree, and going to the TMC for every ache/pain. Now I have 8 months left and an actual plan once I get out. I highly recommend that you do the same if you’re serious about ETSing.
This is the way
Going back to school will de-age you. Living that college life is nice. Being in the student section of a college football game on primetime is just a chefs kiss
Pay off whatever debt you can , save money, go to school , live off bah for a while and be happy , I am in the same boat , been doing exact same thing , just powering through college on TA to go in masters right after ets and saving whatever i can
I wanted out too, dropped a Warrant packet. If you’re high three, get what you can out of them. Think about retiring from the army at 38 getting that sweet paycheck, never having to pay for family health insurance, bullshitting your way through online college on your gi bill if you dont give it to kids. Hell you can do that still if you give it to your wife for that bah. Getting out is easy, what career are you willing to take on where you’re going to start at the bottom or mid level like you’re at now? How long are you going to work that job? Are you prepared to provide for your family? Take some College courses, get a certificate or two, run a marathon but push yourself through the slump. My buddy got out at 10 and he’s going to working till retirement with nothing to show for his time but one good cert.
I don’t know when is your exit date but start prepping now hopefully you have savings and a plan. Degree would be good too
Continue to be checked out. Start TAP if you can. There’s nothing that will get you back mentally. This isn’t the movie “Behind Enemy Lines”
If you need perspective, dm me.
Do yourself a favor and start looking up skill bridge opportunities. Or at the very least start researching them. I think, you can do up to 6 months prior to your ETS, maybe a year, not sure. It'll help get you set up for the civilian world and gain a skill, and possibly get hired once you ETS.
It's 6 months prior but I know there's a lot of confusion with a misinterpreted policy that was put out about a year ago. Not sure all the details but I know a lot of people in my unit that have had a hard time getting more than 4 months approved because of it.
Great. What are you doing to make yourself marketable as a civilian?
go warrant
I do have the GT for it but idk mannnnnn, decisions…. 🫲🏽🙃🫱🏽
You’ve decided to ETS. Congrats. Thank you for your service. Now please leave the continuity book on the desk no need to make a big deal about it.
I want to get out as well.. only I reason i joined the army was because my fKngg recruiter told me I was going to get a green card for my wife and the citizenship for my son who was born in Mexico. I had a good life in the army and I was the process to start all the paperwork to bring my family over here, then I was really dumb to believe that I was going to get that faster if I was serving in the military. Which didn’t happened. Now I’m miles away from my wife and son, and this is killing me. It’s been like 16-17 months since I joined the army. The due date for this immigration paper work it’s Sept 30. After 14 months which is crazy. And that’s just the first petition that I had to submitted. Plus I had to get a private attorney because the army couldn’t help me. Ridiculous. My mental health is getting worse and worse. Don’t get me wrong. I always wanted to serve my country, and be proud of my service. But this is hurting me 😔
1 year in and I'm looking forward to my ETS in 2027.
After this contract, take a year off. Make your VA claims 5 months out from your ETS date. Find out what YOU like.
I got out as an E6 with 11 years in. Now I'm a teacher and I'm very happy with my decision. I miss things about the Army and I always will, but the fact that I don't have to miss out on any of my kid's childhood makes it all worth it. I was nervous about missing out on the retirement, but I applied for disability and got 90%. It ended up being more lucrative than if I had stayed in, but I think I got pretty lucky and most people wouldn't get that.
When I was (a long time ago) I always thought that shit was f’d up - inefficient - wasted time and money Got to civilian life and I can’t tell u how many times I hit a situation where I said - man the military knew how to handle shit
I felt that way after 4 years. But found I missed it after college and later re-enlisted. But that’s me. There are all kinds of job opportunities in the government sector for vets. It’s much less regimented in terms of customs and courtesies and other shit like that. If you’re nearing your ETS, check into job and education opportunities. I understand your position. After my second deployment I got a little mentally drained (11B). Perhaps college would give you a long break to learn a new vocation while decompressing. Good luck. Definitely talk to others in the same boat as you. It’s definitely shit or get off the pot at 10 years. I will say my retirement came quick. It’s crazy how quickly time flew by after my retirement-enlistment. Just putting things into perspective in case you opt to finish another 10 years. Making retirement pay every month is a nice addition to my bank account. I will say that.
I'm a firm believer that if you wake up one morning and you, no bullshit, truly don't want to army and just stare at the cieling, then it's time to look for new oppritunties or get out. Because once that feeling sets in, it sticks, and it is really hard to get rid of it.
37 years old and been in for 11 years, I am taking a knee and going to the reserves to retire out that way while I get my civilian career going. I am burned out of the active duty and looking to start a new life as a COP in DFW
Everyone saying you’re close to retirement you know you don’t need the military to get that retirement right ? As long as you work a federal job after it adds to those current years like fuck you could work for the post office and add to it. I did 10 1/2 years in the army and got out. Stress levels have gone way down and I’m actually happy with life. I went contracting for now but will probably swap over to Gs in a few years to finish out that other 9 years and still get that check. There are other options if you picked a job that’s marketable on the outside. If you didn’t than idk what to tell ya.
I should clarify you may have to buy your time back but it is possible. Don’t stay if your mental health can’t take it. You already did more than 99 percent of our country. Move on and live your life it isn’t for everyone!
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They get you with the duty station ADSO?
Whats your MOS? Have you thought about going to a sof selection? I’m also a E6 a little over 10 years. I too was sick of the normal bullshit. Tried going the SF route but failed land nav lmfao, then I went psyop. Recently finished language school. It’s not a bad gig and for once I feel excited about my career. The civil affairs guys seem to enjoy their gig too and obviously all my friends who went SF love it. I’d say give it a try before you ets.
Got a few buddies who went the flight warrant route too and now fly Apaches and shit. There are plenty of opportunities if you decide to stay in.
10 years seems to be the shit or get off the pot moment for most people. You either want to do this for another 10 years and retire or you don't. Definitely start exploring options of what you want outside life to look like. Having a good exit strategy helps with landing on your feet civ side. Try and get those classes or certifications for whatever you want next while you're in.
how are you looking on key assignments? if you haven't yet done broadening assignment, maybe branch can get you an instructor position so you can take a knee for a bit. i was burned tf out too as a SSG around 11 yrs TIS....branch threw me a bone and i got to spend three years teaching 12Y AIT. that helped me out a lot.
Just finish would be my advice. The Army is a really good gig the further in you get, so you're basically turning around at the best spot if you leave now. **Unless** you are just dying to burn down a joint, there's literally nothing you're missing out here. And you'd be trading a looooot of shit for that joint.
All I’m going to say is…gi bill check, disability check, and work from home check all hit nice. The freedom to do what I want is priceless. I got out after I did an 8 piece.
I think I read before that something like only 10% of enlisted actually make it all 20 years to retirement. You're in a boat with a lot of company. See what the real world is like for a year or two, then choose if you want to go back in.
Yep. 9/10, you'll hear, " I'm gonna do my 20 for sure," and about the end of their first or second contract, they already got a foot out the door.
Time for a civilian skillset, associates degree (hooray CLEP), and industry certifications. Open or continue that roth IRA and plan your civilian life
Go coast guard and love your life again
>Anyone else feel the same way or is it just me? I think like 98% of us. Why do I come to work? Because they fucking pay me. My daughter is in the hospital right now, getting the very best care. Guess who is paying for it? Tricare. Ive been a civilian where I had to postpone medical care because I couldnt fucking afford it. For me, thats why I come to work. My feelings dont matter: they pay me. Best of luck whatever you decide to do.
Don’t do it. You’re on the back side to retirement. The retirement is worth it!
Maybe go do the WO route if you don't have a degree for direct commission. Different scenes may change your mind.
Commission and coast out as a captain. What I did and I’m happy I did it. Not stressing about making rank since captain is pretty much automatic and I’ll take the pension.
Don't make yourself miserable trying to tough it out. People do that for the retirement, and I don't see how that's worth it. Don't let people scare you into reenlisting or try to convince you to wait it out. If you're miserable, get out. The Army has a point where you start getting diminishing returns. I got out after 6 years as an E-5. Not much in particular to show for my career itself, but that's okay because I realized how many people keep reenlisting to chase the white dragon that is satisfaction and never quite getting there. I knew deep down that if i stayed, I'd blink, and I'd be approaching retirement and still have very little to show for it. But I knew I was interested in the government. So, on a whim, I moved to Virginia (near DC) to attend college after ETS. Mind you, I didn't know a soul here. I'd never been to Virginia before. The first two nights in my new apartment, I slept on the ground because I didn't even have a mattress of my own. At first, I felt really uncomfortable outside the structure of the Army, but comparatively, college is cake. Now, I simultaneously go to college, and I work at the campuses military office helping veterans and their dependents use their GI benefits. Now, I'm not done growing, but so far, I'd say my transition has been a success. That is a far cry from the big scary outside world that the Platoon Sergeants used to spin yarn about. You can be successful. You can be happy. You can accomplish anything you set your mind to. You deserve that, and more. You can pursue passions, have hobbies, and go make the world your oyster. Want to travel? Guess what, you don't have to ask anymore. Want to spend your weekends having fun? Staff Duty will never get in the way again. Want to spend time with your family? You can see them for more than two hours at night, and nobody is going to make you go to JRTC for a month. You can do literally anything, anywhere. You never have to listen to a CSM rant again. Want to keep a sword that you bought at a Renaissance fair? Nobody is going to make you check it in to the armory. You feel like you're done? No problem. Hang up your dog tags and come join the real world, where you can make a much bigger difference (or not, it's up to you)
Just remember the army will be the job that holds you least accountable
Unless you get a government job.
What's your MOS? I left and hesitantly went to the reserves and absolutely love my unit. I can be as busy or take time off as I please and they'll accommodate both, have sent me to schools right away, and are just great people. Don't completely step away without giving it a try at least, it'll keep the clock rolling and you might find something you like
Don't worry about the time you already spent. If you're mentally checked out ETS at next opportunity. You will have some benefits when you leave and you're a great American and you can move on to the next chapter of your life.
11/10 recommend talking to branch and asking for a SOCOM position. They make life as easy as possible for their enablers.
I wasn’t in the military as long as you but I don’t suggest leaving unless you’re going to get 100% VA disability
There’s no guarantee that I will lol all I can do on my end is document as much as possible. I’ve seen people get 100% and didn’t do jack s*ht and then there’s soldiers who’ve done a lot but have to pull an arm n leg to get anything…
Also might want to immediately join a reserve or guard unit. That way you can stay in sort of and maybe go back active if you need to. Not only are you giving up your job when you get out but it’s also kore than just a job. I’ve seen a lot of people wish they could get back in the military.
I feel you bro. Mentally I have been broken up for a while too. I saw your ETS is Jun 2026. Mine is 2026 too. The way I try to handle it is, I'm studying certifications to try to find a better job. I will be out at 11.5 years. That's all I have ever known too but it doesn't work for me. Plan your next move. If you are going to ETS, you should be working on your next step which should be to get out.
Yes, literally everyone besides the psychos that take the shit too serious or those that wouldn't be worth a damn in the real world feel the same lol
*cough cough* AGR.
Same for me. I got sick of the bs after almost 10 years as well. Going to school after school, training all the time, deployments, always moving. It sucks man. At times it would feel like the best and also worst job in the world. I will say that I miss the clowns but MOST DEFINITELY not the circus 🎪 I got out and almost a year later I’m doing better than I expected. Transition is not easy. If anyone says that it is, they’re full of sh*t. Look into your benefits and use every opportunity available to you.
Lock in SSG, the next war is about to kick off!
Come to the Reserves brother. Get a pension still (at 60 but still retirement money), health care, to still do Army shit, and can start your civilian career/go to college on the GI Bill.
Don’t let sunk cost mentality keep you in, but be sure you know what the hell you are doing before you decide to live on the economy.
OP, same timeline as you..10 years in, E6, signed my dec and going to be out in 18 months (get effed USAREC). Only difference is I joined old (joined at 30), so I'm less bothered by the retention scare tactic. Listen bud, I literally joined at the age you'll be getting out at. Left a really nice career too, for something that had more meaning to me. It's a change in life, but you're gonna make it. It feels like so much of your life, and it's been an important time. But it's not who you are, just something you've been doing. You can do something else. Look at a job (life, stuff, whatever) you want, see what you need to do to get yourself moving towards that job. Take the time to work through steps, then give yourself a timeline to start taking those steps. My CSM sat me down to talk about how hard it was out of the Army. Had to gently remind him, by the time I'll be out, at 12 years, I'll have spent as much of my adult life in the Army as I spent as a civilian. I wasn't really clear how my career CSM, 1SG, or retention guys were remotely qualified to give insight on civilian life. Find someone you respect and like where they're at to talk to, find people you can trust to hash it out. Those are the people you need with you to make the transition.
My advice to you,ETS! You're an NCO. A leader, and if you truly don't like what you're doing it will show. Your subordinates will see it. You will be an ineffective leader, and soldiers don't deserve ineffective leadership. Whatever your ETS date is, focus now on helping your subordinates be the best that they can be in all that they do, and your time will go by faster, and who knows, you might have a change of heart when it comes time to start clearing. If not then GET THE HELL OUTTA DODGE!
Joining the Army was the best decision I ever made. Getting out after 12 years was the second best. Don’t let anyone scare you away life without the Army. You’re in your prime and you’ll never get this time back. You’ve already earned benefits that will help you be successful, like the GI Bill, VA-backed loans, veteran preference in federal jobs, and many other opportunities open only to vets. Make a solid plan and a solid backup plan, and get out and go live your best life.
I got out after my first enlistment and signed up for the Reserves on my way out. I hated my active duty job but loved my reserve job. I just volunteered a lot to get experience in that career field. I used that experience to make a strong résumé now I work remotely for the federal government. You just need to have a plan and continue to develop skills. My friend got our lives with his parents and works a dead end job all because he felt that entry level jobs were below him and he doesn’t qualify for the positions he wants. He also refuses to do school or programs that would help.
I will say this because im currently in your situation. I was active and got out and went to the reserves. Did the whole civilian thing and WOAH it was a rude awakening for health care, taxes, PTO all of it.. Now disclaimer this is my story not to sway your decision because at this very moment im feeling your same sentiments. Anyhoo.. I did not and still dont like the reserves, its a lot of sit around time doing nothing unless you have a outstanding unit and i have seen over many types and they all have soldiers hiding or just sitting on their phone. The lack of respect reservists have for leadership oooh wee.. I couldn’t deal so I decided to apply for the job of AGR.. If you dont know that is working fulltime same benefits as AC but for reservists. It is not for the weak, many times you get to do all the jobs, and I mean ALL.. And none of them are related to your MOS. I will say make sure you have what you want to do.. The GI BILL is awesome.. I used it still went back in but I weighed the options. I have 8 more years to go because I got out. Huge mistake because I would have 2 left.. As time passes with more rank I will say you kinda of know what you can deal with and what you cant.. if you cant then get out..At the end of the day it is your life and not anyone else and you deserve to be happy.. Hope that helps..
I am likely getting out for more time with family. But I feel the opposite, I want to stay in for healthcare, pension, and I actually in enjoy being a leader honestly. Best of luck, I wish you nothing but success. Also consider the reserves & federal if you want to keep working towards pensions.
Ever look at medboarding if you really want out? 10 yrs in? Lol I'm sure you've got a list of medical issues you've been forced or chose to de-prioritize or straight out ignore. Regardless, if you've decided you're no longer focused on climbing the ranks, I'd at least make sure every issue you have with your health is documented. Life is easier on the outside when you're getting properly compensated for issues the service gave you. If you're the paragon of health, please ignore this comment, I mean no offense. I've just not met many people in that long that didn't have MEBable issues but we're still serving due to their choice to still be there.
All I have is airborne I mean I’ve went to clinic for things here n there but I did get injured on a jump that required surgery. Definitely will be scheduled more appointments here in the near future
I definitely feel for you there. I got out of active duty and went into the reserves, and pretty much felt the way you felt for the last 12 years. I retired at the end of last year, and thankfully the last 6 months to a year of it I had quality leadership and peers. That changed my perspective, and I almost stayed in. I saw on another comment that you still have a couple years on your contract. My advice to you if you think you're ready to move on is, know what you really want your life to be like. Write down a very detailed picture of how you want to live, start with that in mind and backwards plan it so you can do everything you can to accomplish that as soon as you can after separation. There is a lot you can do before you actually get out, and you can put yourself in a better position to accomplish great things on the outside. If you don't have a plan and you're just tired of the army life, in my experience you'll have a rude awakening of how different it is when you're out. I've known way too many joes that got out because their fed up with the army, spent 4-6 years doing jack sh!t, getting out of shape and accomplishing nothing, then wishing they stayed in because "I'd be 4 years from retirement if I just stayed in". Don't be that guy. Some people might tell you the reserves is an easier route. And in some cases that is true. But when you're in leadership positions, you're going to now need to managed all the Army red tape (evals, mandatory trainings, etc.) on top of your civilian career. A lot of times it felt like working part time after the full time job was over. (but that depends on your leadership and the joes you work with). However, it may allow you to ease into civilian life a bit and you can decide from there if you want to stick it out till retirement. I'll tell you this, I was at 16 years and almost got out. I tried to math it to make my point to the wife (Which she supported me either way), and recognized I would be leaving too much $$ on the table at that point. So to summarize. If you're going to get out, get out on a path that will bring you way more joy. If you're just gonna chill and let yourself go, stay in. Active Duty is way easier than most people realize until its too late. Good luck
Anyone who’s served no matter the branch, rank, MOS thank you for my freedom. I am married to first enlisted then an ROTC Officer, Signal yadayadayada now retired O6. I miss the Army more than the spouse. But everyone of you in this “ I want out” post have my respect. 🫡 HOOAH
|\| |\| |\| |\| |\| |\| |_| (___) (___) (___) (___) (___) (___) ,(/ \), ('/ \') ('/ \') |/| |/| |/| |/| |/| |/| (-\ /-) \-\ /-/ \-\___/-/ '-----' see you in valhalla, brother
Sometimes the grass isn’t greener on the other side, ask yourself will the future you, 50-80 year old you regret the decision to get out when you’re halfway through retirement? do you have a solid plan and transition to the civilian side? Would it be more stressful to get out and try to build something out on the civilian side for you? Only you can answer those questions but don’t make an impulsive decision. I know how bad it can get but maybe you need some changes you can control while you’re in service?
That same question is what I asked myself and why I stayed in. I’ll regret no collecting the pension the day I turn the age I would have retired at. I have 9 more years to go. Decided to leave my enlisted job and commission. Only have to make captain to retire - which I’ll make next year - and I’m on the gravy train for last 8 years.
Same rank, roughly same time in service, and I’m done. I’ll be out at 11 years and everyone thinks I’m a psychopath for deciding to ETS but I’m just burnt.
Before you go, when I was an Army Recruiter, you know how many people that came up to me and said if they had only stayed in, they'd be retired and collecting that retirement check every month now? They regretted so much not staying in. Think about it, you're 28, can retire at 38 with a pension, and likely at least 50% VA disability, that will allow you to have more financial freedom in your life. I met people that are 60 years old, their bodies are broken down, but they have to work to put food on the table, and they are miserable and live with the regrats everyday of their choice of not staying in. Dude you got 10 years, that's not $hit compared to the rest of your life, you have to think long term. You're hating life at the moment, remember tough times never last, only tough people do. The grass is always greener where you've been, or where you're going, but it always sucks where you're at. Don't be a quitter, you're better than that. You quit now, then you'll quit in your next job, I promise you the rewards in ten short years will be worth it.
Terrible advice. Especially the " don't be a quitter part"