I left because after all the re-educating I put my self-through (‘cos I didn’t like the idea first time round at school!) put me at a higher level academically than my RAF trade catered for. It also gave me exposure to the opportunities in the outside world.
I found by the end of my RAF career the whole of the trade structure was far too linear with very little flexibility to move into positions that would allow me to use my skills and education I had gained over 20+ years (despite applying for them over the last 8 years).
Add on the discontent of the family due to either shift work or the frequency of Op’s, it all added up to leaving the RAF.
One other thing because, on leaving, I had a gratuity and there was a down turn in the market it enabled me to buy a house and provide a bit of stability/security (without magnolia walls!) for my family.