FWIW, I punched at 13 years (enlisted). I would've retired November of this year if I had stayed, but I'm glad I left. Made it from a regional to a legacy in under 7 years. For me, seniority is everything (39 years old).

I read this whole thread and can easily say: PUNCH NOW (or as soon as you have the job offer)
Been there, done that.

Now if you had 16 years in....tough choice, but I'd lean towards getting the 20 then punch ASAP.

+1. It's not even close. 2.5%/year more retirement or hundreds of thousands/millions over the span. After 20 you're basically working for free.

You're also gambling that the military pension will even be in place in 20-25 years (mathematically not possible as soon as 5-10 years according to that 2012 report). Punching at 16 now vice 20 in four years? Without a doubt, bail and get a reserve/guard job. The health care bennies are really where it's at.

I've tried explaining that once you're over twenty you're working for half a paycheck. Finally someone gets it.

Also on a side note, make sure you set up an appointment w/a VA rep to go over your medical records as soon as you know you're getting out/retiring. Get as much disability as you can...it may help. Just say'n...

Lots of drift here...but good dialogue.

To the OP: philosophical responses...what do you want to "do" with your life? Work is either a means to an end or, for some, an end in its self. If a means to an end (pay and retirement) I am an advocate of risk reduction and diversification. If going to the airline is what you want to wake up and go "do" as that means or an end, then I would go now. If you still find value and want to wake up and put on the military uniform, do that. There is money behind both your options... what do you want to do with your life? If your purpose (hope not) is based solely on a secure retirement I'd punch and start diversifying that retirement with an airline 401k. But if you still feel called to serve then do that. Again at 43 what are your priorities? No judgement I simply don't see/know all your other priorities other than financial. And I am certain you have them. Best of luck with your transition.

Tougher call for the man with 16+yrs.
I know 10+ guys who punched for airlines in their teens prior to 9/11...with no real back up plan. Scrambled for ANG/Reserve jobs. Yours is truly a risky decision. The probably of a completely lost 20-yr Military pension versus being furloughed with the hope of guard/reserve bumming (plan B) as supplemental income seems to favor getting the military AD retirement... again pure financial decision and I am sure there are other factors too. Man-days and dollars have been cut back significantly. They are still out there but is very unit-to-unit dependent. I'd develop and research the viability of your plan B thoroughly before leaving 16 years on the table.

Best of luck to you both...Happy New Year to all!

Disability? Won't that disqualify you from an FAA medical?

Not necessarily...but be careful what you get listed in your records. You are required to disclose it all to the FAA and they supposedly have the ability to electronically access your VA medical record. The popular claim these days is sleep apnea for 50% disability but the FAA doesn't play nice with that diagnoses and you're opening yourself up to a whole other obstacle course to get your FAA Class I. If you plan to fly after the military, I'd go easy on the disability buffet until you know how it will affect you.

Sleep apnea will be a huge deal with the FAA, you won't be flying anytime soon.