I got out of the military and had only one job offer (the recruiters didn't understand what I would be allowed to do, so I didn't take it). Did 2 different careers over 10 years. A military guy suggested I look into getting back. I did a number of things to prepare, and got hired and a regional. I am glad I came back.
I just read about a guy here that was out for 20 years. He was snapped up by a regional, and did nothing to prepare: Just showed up for new-hire INDOC. No problems for him.
The regionals are much better than they were, and there are more options that the regionals, also.
Namaste...