So fucking close. I’m Retired

12 Years Active, then got kicked out

20 years Guard / Reserve

8 year’s Government Contractor

10 Years Federal Civilian Employee

I tell everyone the same thing

Sign up for 4 years of Active the finish your 8 year contract as a Reservist not Guardsman

After 3 years you get 100 percent of your VA benefits

You can also apply to be released early to join the Reserve

When you do join the Reserves. Join in a different job. Have the government send you to school again

After your 8 year initial contract is done. Get the fuck out. The military retirement is not worth it anymore

Bank that TSP money. And get a good civilian job