The best I can say right now is that I've enjoyed the Navy generally for the past 9 or so years...I love to fly. Sounds like a winning combination now but who knows.
I'd definitely be willing to stay past 20 as long as I am 1) still enjoying myself and 2) Advancing so that I can stay etc... My thoughts now are that I would happily push past the mid 20's to make O5...but see rule #1. I just want to know if/how at 20 years I'll be able to make that decision effectively.
Thanks for everyones input. Seems like there is more to talk about here than I initially thought. Goood thread thus far...
You're gonna find that there are some similarities w/ the white hat side. There's going to be a lot of times that you'll be seriously aggravated about things you wish you could change but are out of your control - all that's different is the relative level of those things. I always had little things like that that bugged me, but once put into perspective I actually enjoyed all my time when I was enlisted. There were things I knew I'd remember (i.e. "when I get to make a decision about X, it'll be different), but still I enjoyed it. Just remember to apply the same train to present thought. As a JO, there will again be things that will irk/annoy you; but it's just a matter of becoming part of the solution when you reach a point that you can. The flying just makes it even better.
Have an open mind as you progress (and it sounds like you do). View each potential future assignment in the grand scheme of things - how will it affect/enhance your "marketability" as an officer. In a perfect world, none of us would ever leave the plane/helo. You'll see a lot of guys start to burn out, get tired, etc. toward the end of the 1st tour (deployment skeds these days not helping). The key is finding those shore / 2nd sea tours that will not only give you a chance to recharge but also enhance your ability to contribute to the game. Some front offices may want to steer you one way or another, and that's fine. They might see a potential in you to perform in one capacity or another that you might not realize. Just be sure that tour is the "best" one for you.
I'm like you - not looking to bail at 20. Personally, I'm willing to stay as long as #1. it's still fun, and #2. I can make a difference. That's more of an "or" really. Some jobs might not be as gratifying, but I can live with it if I'm doing a job that truly matters. I'm marketable enough now for "other" government service and make nice change doing so, but I honestly enjoy the Navy side. Just promise not to make any career decisions based on life at year 2 of your first sea tour as a JO. It's all cyclical. "Circular, circular. Good things."
It's actually quite shocking to me just how bad an attitude some of these SWOs have. They even complain about the unbelievable deal the Navy is giving them by letting them off for three years to get a free private university education. Yeah, having to muster 9 or 10 times a year is such a hassle. 
