[Old Student]

“Since most retirees at that point still have kids at home or in college you just can’t maintain your lifestyle, even with frugality, without obtaining fulltime employment of some kind. Now, with the retirement, there comes some flexibility in being able to take jobs that might pay a bit less than what a civilian with the same experience might get but that flexibility can be a plus in terms of not having to beat yourself silly trying to surpass what you made on active duty.”

I'm aware of that. My youngest was born late August, and I retired 1 November, of ‘97. I next get to retire when they nail the box shut on me. Tricare Prime beats a sharp stick in the eye, but it's certainly not “free” as my recruiter promised me. Despite staying for 24 years, I'd STILL like to meet TSgt. Clifton T. Angel, Jr. in a dark alley somewhere. ;)

[RJS1950]

I know the feeling alright. My youngest was in Jr. High when I retired and they’ve been out of the house for 10 years now but with all of the cuts, potential higher taxes etc permanent retirement will probably come when they plant me. The wife still thinks she will retire at 65 but I have serious doubts about that working out.