Do People Regret Leaving the Military After Their First Enlistment?

There is a common debate among veterans about whether leaving the military after the first enlistment is a regrettable decision or not. This article explores the experiences of individuals who have left the military and their reflections on those choices.

Personal Reflections on Leaving the Military

Let's start with a personal experience, where a veteran, who is the author's father, and the author himself share their stories about their military careers and the reasons behind their choices.

For the author's father, his decision to leave the military was driven by personal issues at home. He was employed as civil service working for the Air Force, and to qualify for retirement, he needed to serve for 40 years. However, he had to leave to deal with domestic issues, emphasizing the significance of family life. As the author states, his father finally expressed his regret about leaving the military after 20 years, especially because he could not have raised the children without assistance due to his absence at home.

On the other hand, the author served for 20 years and retired. He made sure to avoid the same mistake his father made by ensuring financial stability before marriage. Even though his base closed, his military duties led him to relocate to an Air Force Base in Oklahoma.

Examples of Regrets and Reflections

Another instance where the idea of regret comes into play is when the author reflects on a unique opportunity that arose during his time in the military. He was leaving Vietnam and had the option to take a 30-day leave with the Marine Corps or stay behind. Ultimately, he chose to go home to be with his future wife, despite considering the potential experiences that awaited him in Vietnam. This decision led to thoughts about "what if" scenarios, illustrating the long-term impact of such choices.

Personal Regret in the Marines

The author also shares his personal regret in leaving the Marine Corps after his initial enlistment. He notes that he enjoyed his time in the Corps, but the competition for advanced ranks was intense due to the limited number of available positions. The Corps did not allow him to change his MOS, a decision that he still ponders 44 years later. Although his decision to get a degree in electrical engineering was beneficial, he often wonders about the experiences and career paths that might have been open to him if he had stayed.

Conclusion

The debate about whether one should regret leaving the military after the first enlistment is complex and depends on individual circumstances. While some individuals might face financial instability or personal challenges, others might be driven by personal goals or opportunities outside the military. The experiences shared here highlight the multifaceted nature of decision-making and the lasting impact of such choices on one's life.

Key Takeaways

Regret and Personal Circumstances: Personal and family considerations often shape decisions to leave the military. Impact of Choices: The choices made during military service can have long-lasting effects on one's life and career. Navigating Career Paths: The competition and opportunities within the military can sometimes lead to personal regret.

In conclusion, while some individuals might not experience regret in their military service, reflecting on these experiences can provide valuable insights for those considering or contemplating military enlistment.