This is an interesting discussion. I didn't have the benefit of a "baseops forum" when I decided to join the military, I was naive compared to the rest of you.
In any case, I joined to fly for my country. I gave up a very lucrative job at IBM to do it.
I didn't look at the retirement plan.
I didn't know much about the work week schedule.
I didn't really know jack.
I DID know there was a multi-year commitment.
I found out I'd make about $26000 my first year. Cool
For me, it didn't matter. It could have been a 20-year commitment, and I would have signed up.
Probably not a "wise" decision for many reasons... but it's the one I made.