Two cents from an old fart. I was in the Navy probably during the lowest morale point (Carter years, post Viet Nam) in recent history. Would I do it again, even after 20000 hours of civilian flying? In a heartbeat, even remembering those years on active duty. Perhaps have forgotten some of the not so great times, as we all tend to do, but overall.....the best experience of my 58 years. I envy the guys that were on active duty post Carter. Even post Tailhook years. Man, even in the reserves (non flying) we got hit with the post Tailhook inquisitions. Being part of something bigger than oneself has lasting meaning.