Pete - Sounds like you are a bit of an adrenaline junkie. That is OK in its own right. That is what makes guys like you so valuable to the public service you provide. But there are times when life is going to change.

Here's the gig...understand what bsmith said. You have to be who you are regardless of skills, qualifications and education. I retired from the USAF last year after 26 years of service. I got a Master's degree and earned a Black Belt in karate in the last year I was in. Quite honestly, both have been hollow achievements. I was trying to define myself through those accomplishments. I wasn't comfortable in my own skin. Add to that the loss of the "sense of community" or the "brother in arms" and things were/are a little sketchy.

But, I have been blessed to have a brother who has acted as my confidant and mentor durng my transition time. We have discussed the process of discovering who I am as a person outside the confines of military service. I had to look at who I am. The journey ,while only beginning, is difficult. I have to trust that it will work out. It has to, I have a daughter and wife in college and a teenage son that need me to stay sane.

So, relax in your new role. Also, realize that you have never been a "whatever-year-old" going through change like this before. It is a new experience and you really need to take it moment-by-moment.

Let me know if you need anymore screwball advice like this, I have tons of it.