Yes, the pay is shit, but the benefits are stunning. And it’s not like you have to pay for the things a civilian does. Tons of free shit. Start at 18, hang in 20-years, and you’re fucking set at 38 years old.
Imagine that. 38-yo, pulling retirement for life, and right at your prime. Best friend in high school joined the Army. Did however many years (single digit), spent the rest in the Guard. Basically fucked off at 39, started consulting for the DoD and fixes/collects classic cars for kicks. He mainly works to finance his hobbies and to stave off boredom. We’re 53 this year.
My wife is Filipina, all those girls married military guys. There’s a total of 2 of us in the whole gang that never served. Those guys are long retired and riding high.