Enlisted in '69 and did six years of Army. Great training, great experience and travel.
I ended up in Japan and Korea instead of Vietnam. Spent time as intelligence analyst, running investigations, security NCO at missile depot, recruiter/career counselor, and infantry sergeant. Turned down E-6 twice due to upcoming ETS future plans.
No regrets.
And, hell yeah, they all get my respect. If you don't think they deserve it, visit a veteran's hospital or military hospital for a day. It will change your life.