At an Emerald Coast seminar, I asked Albie a related question. Delta wants performance reports, I'm retiring as a Major, is that going to hurt?

I'm not claiming to quote, but my recollection was a twofold answer:

- Are your records bad? As in, referral OPRs (translation from AF: did you get in major trouble that was documented in your records?)

- Keep in mind, there are pilots on the interview panel with military experience. And they all quit. They aren't the folks that bled blue (or whatever color meets your service metaphor). They weren't the group commander who shot people for not wanting to be the next Chief of Staff--they quit. They were the guys who had more hours than their Group/CC, and thought he was high.

Anyone with significant military experience knows that promotion percentages change dramatically over time. I'm sure airlines value leadership experience, but they are hiring pilots. I suspect they aren't that interested in your superb organization of the Christmas ball (please God please).

So my opinion, do what works for you and yours best.