Greetings,
I am aware this may come off as a humblebrag, and Ild like to apologize in anticipation for sounding like a pompous show off. But I am in dire need of some old man wisdom and theres no better place for that than the AW community.
On the one hand, Ive lucked out and got several job offers working in software at big tech companies in the $400k range. Nothing too exciting. Writing little code, cashing big checks.
On the other, I have an NFO contract ship date late July. Along with all the pains and pleasures that being an AD officer for a decade carries.
I am a single mid-twenties dude who thinks that playing dress-up and licking windows around the globe full time for 8-10 years would be the coolest job ever.
But, would it be as cool as being a mid-thirties dude with $4million his bank account (prolly somewhat under $3mill after tax)?
Yes, many vets have said throughout history "they wouldnt trade their service for the world", but I mean $3million in your 30s is a lot of moolah though. Kinda makes me wonder if they meant it literally or if they just say it cause it sounds cool. I don't have that kinda money nor have I lived the life of an FO, so I'm asking you folks who have done at least one and/or possibly both.
So my question to you older, wiser bubbas who've beenthere-donethat and in their youth chose adventure and service and have now moved on to the rhythms
of civilian life, would you trade your naval aviation years, memories, and experiences for $3million bucks?
And yes, I am aware every now and then a similar thread pops up and it always come down to "OP, you must chose between adventure and a civvy career. Go to
the woods and search within, its something that only you can answer for yourself. If anything, serve now and then go focus on your finances". Yeah. True. Cant argue with that. But. Knowing what you now know about life in naval aviation, would you sell your service years for $3 million bucks though?