This week I retire from the military. I had a break in service for mission and school, but I spent 23 of the past 30 years in the Army (Field Artillery), National Guard (Counterintelligence/Linguist) and Air Force (JAG). Got to live in Germany, Guam, Alaska, England, and a bunch of places in the states. Got to raise six kids on the way. Got to deploy with infantry (mechanized) unit to Desert Storm; to the FBI/DIA in Wash D.C. in support of anti-mafia operation; with C-130 wing to Kuwait/Iraq in Operation Iraqi Freedom; and to the the detention facility at Bagram, Afghanistan in support of detainee operations. I've had opportunity to prosecute and advise on the prosecution of hundreds of cases against Airmen, and to serve as defense counsel defending Airmen in dozens of separate cases. Had some of the most amazingly wonderful experiences along the way, and some of the most difficult, trying and/or heartbreaking experiences as well.
And it's all coming to an end this week. It's been one heck of a ride. Grateful for the experiences, but super excited about retirement as well!