Originally Posted by
gr8vu
Your numbers speak for themselves. Do what you really want to do and be happy with the decision since the difference isn't that substantial based on all the unknowns. Six months before 911 I decided to stay on active duty and never looked back. I moved a lot, didn't get to pick most of my assignments, and had to jump through the leadership hoops (go to school, do staff work, deploy, etc.). But we could afford for my wife to stay home with the kids and we toured the world on the govt dime. Lots of friends left during the same time period and had a variety of experiences.
I planned and saved like crazy while on active duty and am well positioned for retirement funds in addition to my monthly retirement check and Tricare benefits. Airline job is easy and enjoyable since I live in base and can spend time with my kids.
It's hard to pass up the hiring spree that is forecast over the next 10 years but in the end you will probably live longer if you do what makes you and your family happy.
I can't agree with this any stronger. . .I put in 20 and started my airline career at 42. . .knowing that I have that check coming in every month as well as Tricare benefits allows me to sleep a little better at night. But, yes, you will pass up a lot of seniority by waiting. If you have young kids, you will spend a lot more holidays, school vacations, etc. with them while on active duty than your first 10 years at an airline. Everything is a trade off.