I retired from the Air Guard 2 years ago. I flew fighters for 17 year's.
But not before I served 3 years in the USMC as a grunt, and another 3
year's being an enlisted swill while completing college.

I was hired by Northwest just prior to 911. We all know how that worked
out. It is, what it is...I was with Air Wisconsin for over 5 years.
I would call that less then bus driving. Until you have been in ORD, day in
and day out. You can't explain it. You have to experience it.

My father is a retired fighter pilot also that turned downed a job offer
from American Airlines in the early 70's. He didn't take it because; they
were called BUS DRIVERS at the time. He just liked flying fighters.

He still regret's it. His retirement would be much greater than the Air Guard.
But the one thing my father did bring up, which totally made sense.
He still has his retirement. As I will when I turn 60.

One other note: You can serve your country and feel proud about it.
There is no shame in that, regardless of what country you served for.

And flying for a regional or a Major is not like driving a bus by the way.
If it was that easy all the bus drivers would be doing it. Just ask one.
By the way, when was the last time you saw a Commercial Passenger
Aircraft cross the railroad tracks and get hit by a train...