Memorial dates

I often record dates on which things happen but often it is the dates things ended which bring a change on your life. Many such careers comes with it a requirement to follow orders, to be bound by regulations and laws and to do, if required, put yourself into danger. Most of which we agree to without a thought because the life appeals to us and it is a life which no doubts gives us a strong feeling of comradery and a feeling of pride and belonging.
My contract was made with the Royal Marines for the period of nine years and ended on the 13th December 1968. You may have noted that I in fact joined on the 2nd September 1959. Because these 103 days fell before my 18th birthday they didn't count to my 9 years service and were called "girls time".  On the 13th December 1968 I handed my uniform in and walked through the main gate of Stonehouse Barracks  in Plymouth alone without anyone to see you off and in those few yards changed me from a  service man and all that meant, to a civilian.
This happened, but more so, when I left the Police when after nearly 30 years I was required to retire  on the day before my 55th birthday.
What brought all this on ? Tomorrow is my birthday again.