<prompt> Human: I was thinking about joining and am excited but Im at a spot where I dont think I can move up without a diploma or anything. I work at a factory and am good with the money I have but im just lost.Sorry if this isnt what this subs about  <response>: I dropped out of college as a junior in 2004 to join the Army, I did 11 years including 3 tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, I was medically retired in Jan after an injury. It was the hardest and most rewarding 11 years of my life and wish I could have done more. When I left I had 50,000 in an IRA and another 50,000 in a savings account and owned a home that I was on track to pay off in about 10 years. After I got out I took about 5 months off before looking for work. Landed a job last month that pays 6 figures. I am married with no kids and did IT work when I served. For me it was a great financial decision, but ymmv. 