I think the experiences are one of the more valuable things the military offers. In 1988 I went to Christmas Mass at the Vatican. I saw the Pope. It was an amazing experience. The kicker, I'm not Catholic, but it was an awesome experience regardless. Without the military that never happens.

Then it is the people you meet. When the guy next to you is doing a job that is saving your life and vice versa, that develops a really different kind of friendship.

Same with me about college. I wish I had taken advantage of the programs that were available in the 80's and early 90's. Those programs have been improved ten fold for the young men and women serving today, but at the same time they are paying a much heavier toll for those services. That's why I'm so appreciative of what they do. EWO