This comment illustrates exactly why I joined the military years ago. After college I turned down great salary opportunities and became an officer because somebody has to fight for our country and most people are too committed to other responsibilities -- or preoccupied, self-absorbed, or downright cowardly -- to do it. So I served. Then I got out. I took nothing, wanted nothing, don't like pre-game "salute our heros" parade ground BS and I don't ask for military discounts.

If you hung out with more former military dudes you'd be surprised how many of them like me there are.