<p>With regard to transferable civilian skills, that’s a tough one. I was in a field that directly transfers to civilian life - not one bit of difference - and employers simply did not count my military experience for anything, and have not since. Usually you get a condescending “that’s great” but no job.</p>
<p>Thats also what my brother found. However, he was in the military long enough to finish college and to retire, so he is able to collect retirement at the same time he is earning a salary. ( he didn’t finish college young enough to become an officer- )</p>