No war intended either, brother. Just pointing out what a fine Navy O-6 from the Reserves passed on to me (and I've said it many times since…)
"Working as a TG/TR gives you the opportunity to equally disappoint your unit, your company, and your family…."
Having done it 6 years, I do remember it seemed like someone always felt short changed. So why do it? Well…it was money, it was security, but most importantly it still felt good to wear the uniform and serve. Taking pot shots from those who don't understand what you did…or were perhaps jealous…was just part of the gig. It was still worth it. But even though I haven't flown an Eagle in (wow!) 8 years since 2007, I remember the work it took to do it well, and folks who take pot shots at the TRs out there will hear from guys like me who did the job for a while. Ain't asking for sympathy--it was very, very cool. But it wasn't easy.