Wanting to go back......

[KALIDAWG8996]

I've been out of the Marines since Dec. 08 after more than 8 and a half years and I miss the crap out of it. I've been wanting to go back in as a reservist and was wondering if anyone else has gone back in after a hiatus and how it has affected your personal life. It would be difficult for me since I've settled (married, own home) but, that sheep dog mentality has never left me and I think about it daily. I dont know if it's the bad economy, lack of opportunity, or just remorse. I feel there's so much more I can do but, not sure if i'm just too broken (physically) to go back in. Any thoughts from vets?

[professionalcoyotehunter]

I have been wanting to go back for years but I make way more money than I would ever get paid there so I decided to stay out unless I get laid off than it is a guaranteed paycheck for 4 years.

[JerryM]

I joined the army in 88, left in 92 disgusted and disapponted. Nine months later I was freaking out, missing the field, the guys, the brotherhood so I joined the guard in 93.

It has been a road with it's ups and downs. One thing I can tell you is: if you are going back, go back active and live the life. Going back on active duty for different reasons and for different lenghts of time has created havock in my life. And everytime I go back active, it reminds me of why I left in the first place.

I love my guard unit, and I have experienced many wonderful things, but the one weekend a month crap will drive you nuts.

This is just my experience and in no way a reflection of how the reserves are.

[Once A Marine]

I feel for you. I've been out since 95, and I still jones to go back. If you are feeling that it could be too much physically, it probably will be though. Make the best of what you have, and continue to assist in the background (Marine Corps League, care packages, etc).

[cc56]

I left active duty happily in 06. I joined a guard unit and have NEVER EVER looked back. I have gotten better training and worked with better people in the guard. The one weekend a month and 2 weeks a year thing can suck some times. It seems the event of a life time is always happening on drill weekend. On the flip side no matter how I feel prior to going to drill when I get there it is fun and I like the people. A big caveat is I work with a lot of professionals like Fire fighters, successful business owners and stuff. On the flip side I got back from Afghanistan in Oct and I have been itching to go back again with the guard. I can truly say there is not a bone in my body that wants to go back to active duty!!! Good luck if you go to the reserves. The Army guard used to offer a program where you can check it out for 1 year then get out if you want. I don't know if they still offer that.

[CGK60]

I went in the army in 1968-71, couldn't wait to get out. Maybe things are different now.

[4thSBCT]

Sometimes I miss is too but then All the ****ty times quickly come to mind and I don't miss it anymore.... TA 50 layouts.....Cleaning......eating the nasty d-fac food......(green eggs and ham literally).....long *** days.....PT twice a day.......Yea I don't miss it anymore...

[CavTrooper]

Hell, not everyone is cut out for the life of a Soldier. At least yall stepped up and did what very few people are qualified or have the intestinal fortitude to do.

Yall have my respect, even if you could hack it for the long haul!