[rascul]

Might not even need to do 20. There was a time around a decade ago when they allowed an early retirement after 15 years. I don't know the details, I guess the pension was less. I believe the early retirement option comes up from time to time, possibly when the military is looking to down size.

[FuriouslyAdrift]

That was the force draw down after the end of the Cold War. It did not go well for the Army, at least, and they had to boost recruitment in the late 90's to keep up with normal attrition.

[bumby]

There's still occasional early retirement for certain MOS's I believe. Earlier this year I believe some USMC tankers got hit with a reorganization and at least some were allowed out under the early retirement authority.

[rascul]

See my other comment, it was 2012 to 2018.

[Bedon292]

Under the old system your retirement pay was 2.5% per year served. So 37.5% instead of the 50% you would get at 20 years. Last I know of early retirement happening was after the Gulf War in the mid 90s when everything was downsizing. Wouldn't be surprised if it was happening now too though.

[rascul]

I looked it up, it was 2012 to 2018 (unless it was cancelled before the date in the ALARACT). Not sure if it was all the military or just the Army, though. Being in the Army, I didn't concern myself with the lesser branches ;)

https://www.benning.army.mil/garrison/dhr/content/PDF/ALARAC...