I'm in the same boat Lamin, my last day at work is next Friday (16th). I too spent my childhood years aching to join up, I became a cadet at 13 and joined as an Apprentice at 17. I've thoroughly enjoyed the vast majority of my 30 years and have no regrets. I'm leaving to continue full-time the part-time job I've been doing for the last 4 years so effectively I'm up and running already which is a relief. Guaranteed terrible pay but I think I'm striking the right work/life balance; we'll see!
As to leaving, everyone I've spoken to say the last little act where you hand your ID over is massively underwhelming. The young clerk says "Thank you, is there anything else I can help you with?" and you toddle off out the door into a new life! Endex, no duff