As a E5 that got out early I have had two O5’s work for me, several O6s apply for jobs and a retired 1 star general who wanted to be a lobbyist for me.
I think they work better with big companies.
An O5 with 30yrs should have a $50,000 retirement.
He could move to the midwest and live VERY well for the rest of his life.
I am a retired Colonel. I hired a retired Sergeant First Class who had worked for me and made him go finish his degree. He now makes three times what I make, has his own company, and is the better man.
The big problem with Colonels and Generals is that many do not want to do the real work that you have to do in the business world.