When I joined in Jan 1980, people were saying the same things as they do nowadays. No money, poor leadership, bad government, blah blah. I have been out three years and I think that people are spending lots of time away, however, some elements always did that!! I would not have done as much time in if I had been on constant operations, but, and BIG but, I do not regret joining up at all. It is a life that you have to see to believe. Good friends, great experiences, ups and of course downs. Recommended?? Of course, 100%, do not listen to whinging old duffers like me and in 22 years time, you will be blah blah blah about how it was better in 2007......