The reasons to become a civilian at the U.S. Army are myriad: advance your career, work in a new location, or even try something new. But to stay, it all depends on the people you work with and how welcoming and supportive they are. I found this at the Army and year after year had leaders and peers who were committed to my success. There are formal ways the Army recognizes your work, and I received those, however a smile, being asked for my opinion, or being placed on or have the chance to lead on important projects compelled me to remain, as we were all working for a goal bigger than us individually. There is no better way to work, but in that team environment with common goals and mutual respect.