What was your last day in the military like?

[thurlravenscroft]

When I retired, my unit was closing down. I was the last person there. I literally shut the lights out, locked the doors and drove off into the sunset. There was no fanfare or tearful goodbyes. Thinking back on it now makes me kind of sad.

[BG-njkf]

About 6 hours in on the drive home, I started to laugh uncontrollably. I had no reason to laugh. Then it hit me. It was all of the stress and suppression of self from the last four years leaving my body. Pure euphoria. Still miss it. Lol

[ablebravo]

The day before, I went to the bank, and got the newest quarter they had.

As I was walking out of the last building, DD214 in hand, but still in uniform, I encountered some captain. I saluted him, then stopped him and presented him with the quarter, showing him my DD214 and explaining that he was the last officer I would ever salute.

He had a good laugh, and wished me well.

It was a good day.

[andrewhayes]

Bro I literally got my DD-214 with this kid. Funniest dude ever.

[techandscience]

As I was walking to my car to leave I watched two Sgt's backing out of parking spaces opposite of each other. They backed into each other. I laughed and drove away. It was a great day.

[wrayday]

You know what you do? Turn off your 0430 alarm and sleep in.

[Stig]

The saddest part is losing touch. I only talk to anyone from those days once every few years, and it's usually just a few drunk texts

[BTpaintballer]

The goodbyes are the hardest, we all say we'll keep in touch but it usually just a fade into pleasant memories

[DannyJamezz]

Getting out the Military felt like the loneliest time I’ve ever felt in my entire life. In a matter of final hours I lost my entire identity, 8yrs of friendships, teammates, work, structure & being molded & sharpened into a strict weekly routine just…..Poof Gone….It almost feels like a dream I woke up from, slowly driving off base 2, 000+ miles away from “home” not a single soul in sight to help guide me back West. It was truly the best and the worst experience I never want to go through again.

[asasial]

My son get out of the ARMY this week.
I am extremely proud of him.
From one Vet to another.
Thank you all for your service.

[Certifiably_Unhinged]

They say Disney is the most magical place on earth but they've never received their DD 214.

[lancesmith]

It rained on Fort Hood and I told the formation to enjoy their weekend, and that the ARMY would be just fine without me. I cried as I left the gate and took my uniform off for the last time. That was 9 years ago. I miss the people, but not the bullshit.

[JeffSpehar-ovcn]

My last day was the day I retired. Turned in my active duty ID, received my retired ID and was happy as hell.

[USMC]

I did two pumps and wanted to make it a career, but God had greater plans for my life.. My last day I was surrounded by all my mentors and my Junior Marines. I had both their respect and that made it all worth it! I always told my Marines “ Gents, be the best Marine you CAN be, because one day you’ll look back with either pride or regret..” God bless!

[Jasonlol]

Last day was unreal. I don’t think I’ve ever felt that relieved in my life even afterwards

[erthx]

Cover on outside, cover off inside...oh yeah, I'm a civilian again. You tell yourself, I'm gonna sleep late, grow out my hair, and dress casual and comfy. Then not long after you're out, you shave clean, cut your hair, and tuck your shirt and adjust your gigline. That's when you realize that servce changed you inside for the better. I got out in 1990, and still feel this way.

[hobbitpsi]

My last day, I signed out and jumped in my truck and hit the gas running. I got a call as I was 30 minutes away from base saying I needed to come back in, that the Commander was throwing me my going away party. Didn't wanna leave on bad terms with everyone so turned around and got a free meal before saying goodbye and by nightfall I was on the road back home.

[Thelasttruespic]

My plan wasn't solid when I got out. However I found my way and make a hell of a lot more money then I ever would have in the military. Best of luck brother

[MachineGunMikey]

When i got out i left that same office he is at, got my dd-214 and did one last stop at the platoon sergeants office at the CP in Horno, didnt realize the emotions would hit me like they did. Said my final good byes to every platoon sergeant and then realized i was leaving everything i ever knew behind, and the tears came. One of the Ssgt pulled me outside and told me something id never forget “The good ones get out because they’re smart and will have great opportunities out in the civilian life.”

[Kodyf]

Though you may be out, don't give up on the discipline you were taught.