12 Years USAF - Stay or Go?
In 2012 I would have served 13 years active duty (7 years away from a 20 year retirement). I have an opportunity to go to school for a year in DC, followed by a staff tour (probably in DC) - taking me further from flying w/ more responsibility. School extends my commitment to 2015. If I take the 'bonus' to stay in next year - $125K for 5 more years of service - I'm committed to 2017 - 2 years away from collecting military retirement at 42 (2019). I would still need to work b/c the retirement is roughly $30-35K/year (take home). OR Should I get out in 2012 - go reserves to finish 7 years to collect retirement at 60 - and start flying for the airlines in 2012? 7 years means alot of seniority in the airlines. Esp. when all the airline pilots hit 65yrs old in 2012. I'm ready to start a family - is it best to do this with or without the military...because since 9//11 active duty military is relentless on the family life...gone 200-250 days/year...1 year deployments are a norm. I've enjoyed my time in the military when I was single. But now engaged to be married - I'm re-evaluating my time, quality of life, and potential to earn. Thanks in advance for your response.