Waltz could have retired after 20 years. That's a usual career path. He served for 24 years and attained the highest possible enlisted rank. That's to be celebrated!

And the idea he was avoiding combat by retiring?

Any veteran could tell you how laughable that is. Command sergeants major (except in extraordinary career fields) don't serve on the front lines. He would not have been headed to combat even if he stayed in. He'd have been in the rear with the rest of the command staff.

His enlistment term came up, he had plans for his life, so he didn't re-up. After 24 years of service, nobody should criticize him for that!