What a brilliant thread.
I've read and agreed to most of it (up to the drift into the predictable "Get another Forum" moaning).
The bit I liked best was Seldomfitforpurpose's ill-judged opinion of what he'd be like when he's left the service; something which, even after getting to a point 4 years before his 31 (+1/2) years - he has yet to experience.
Well matey, you'll only do it once - and I really do hope your not one of those 'drop-dead after serving too long' types.
I reached my "24 + 9" earlier this year. I am about to start my 4th job having spent all that time improving my way up to managership in a large Part 145 organisation. Something I have seen very many ex-RAF officers and SNCO's fail to do.