I think I need to echo the sentiment of what others have said here -- for years and years we've operated under the assumption that the guard and its retirements will always "be there", but with the cuts that are coming down, there's no sacred cows anymore.

Even the military pension and healthcare is being questioned. Sure, it may not be a serious threat in 2013, but the mere fact that it's being discussed is simply the first step. Discussion leads to debates, and debates lead to actions.