Well, a Gunny would be a “lifer” and I’d bet these days you’ve got to be in for at least a dozen years to make E-7; maybe more.....so it’s my wager he’s not giving up his retirement.
I got out in January as a 13-year E7 for exactly this reason. Haven’t looked back since. Contrary to me detractors, I haven’t “shriveled up and died” without the military.