I wear my Navy ball cap every single day to remind me the debt that I owe to my country, who gave that gift to me by allowing me to serve.
The Navy was real good for me also. I remember about 15 or so years ago I went to VA to get hearing aids. I was put on hearing conservation in 1977 on the ship and thankfully still had the letter. I had to go see a VA Doc before a referal to Audiology clinic. The doctor checked me over real good and looked at my history and had a question "How in the world did you get into the armed forces?" I said I didn't know I couldn't and I was serious. I said the Navy took me 76-80 and the Army NG took me 84-85 on a prior service try it to see if you like it the Guard's had going then. They stuck me in a Howitzer Battery. That got the rest of my hearing LOL.
Holy smokes, you have a very interesting history in light of where you ended up in life. You sound like things worked out well for you, and they must have to get back in the NG.
Hahahaha...then you got into a Howitzer Battery!
Frikking ears! Right now both of mine are singing away at me in unison, each with three different tones! I admit, I am just glad to have anything left there to hear with.