Just another opinion--that's all I offer. I'm 20 year plus active duty C-130 bubba about to retire and headed to a major.

When I was in your shoes, there was not as much hiring going on, but SWA was hiring. I decided to stay mostly because I liked the people I worked with. You have a unique situation where money isn't a factor. That provides you with great power to DO WHAT YOU WANT TO DO--what feels right to you.

The last 5 of active duty were the most stressful...and also the most rewarding. If you stay in there are strong odds you will have another deployment. Your jobs will get more stressful. However, you will also be in a position where you will probably have more influence on operations and in a better position to help/mentor the next generation. If you stay 20 you will amass more valuable friendships and a lifetime check. With the ups and downs in the industry...its always good to know the mortgage will get paid (and with your sugar momma maybe even some extra for some fun toys).

If you leave, you may have to do a few years in the regionals...but I would consider that professional education with pay. You will learn the 121 world and when you jump to your forever major, it will be much less stressful than it will be on me. You will also be able to make that jump to a major sooner, and thus start earlier towards seniority and its perks--most importantly schedule control. Plus--if you wait it out there is no telling if they majors will be hiring like they are now.

In the end, both sides have pluses and minuses and only you can decide. I'm happy I stayed in, but I was on a command track and got to be a commander--so some of what I mentioned only happened because of that. I'm happy I stayed the course, but also know friends that jumped are happy as well.

Its good that you are asking others...but in the end--only you know what's best...and you and your family have to live with the results. Good luck on the decision.