I was in the Navy for 8 years. Transferred over to the civilian sector for 14 years as a contractor. Recently I went Government and am a GS-15 and the Systems Engineer and Program Manager for several of the USMC and Joint products you see may see on TV fighting the war(s).
I have been giving to and dedicated to the DoD all my life. Many friends and good times. No regrets.
11 years PA Army National Guard, 12 years Active Army. Still going strong. Guard 1st, Active 2nd, so still have 8 more to go to retire. Opps, you said ex-military. oh well