VA vs. AF RN & Retirement

[focker2009]

Hello everyone, here is a little background on myself so you understand my delima and question.

I am 36 years old and finishing nursing school in May of 2009. Yea! (I am living proof you are never too old to go back) I was an active duty Medical Specialist in the Air Force and served 4 years before being Honorably Discharged. My over all goal is to commit 20 years time for a solid retirement option.

Now for my question(s)....I know that working for the government has it's pluses and minuses, but I know very little about VA hospitals as a whole.

1. Does anyone know if I work at the VA for a couple years and then rejoin the AF if I will get any credit for my VA experience/time?

2. What is the VA retirement policy like?

3. How does it work in regards to pay rate and promotions?

I would apply immediately for OTS, but my wife has 2 more years of school and she too will graduate with her RN, and since we have children I know it would be best if I waited to support her and my family, because as we all know nursing school is no joke, and the last thing she needs it the thought of me being deployed right in the middle of it LOL!

Thanks for taking the time to check out my post, I really look forward to everyones input :nuke: