Despite we've never had a long conversation (more than just a hello and a how are you) I can determine you're a wonderful human being and you're friend of your friends. As seen by the MCNR Community, you did your CM job superbly and I'm not sure if the next one will touch your feet sort of speak, because you watched this community rise since the early days and you know the ground pretty well.
Joining the army is a requirement once you turn 18 or something, in some countries until today like yours. I remember Portugal abolished the need of new adults to join the army in 2004, since there was no need for it, or some else crazy bureaucracy. However if you always dreamed to be serving your country in that way, you go man — nothing is best than a young man wanting to defend his homeland with such a motivation rather than just that guy whose joined army against his will. I believe you're going to do swell, and I wish you the best, I wish you strength not only physical but emotional as well.
As I said above, the next CM will not reach your feet, but I believe the next person reaching for your spot will do just fine since Mike knows his staff and will know who's more responsible to hold such big position.
Summarizing, I want to wish you a good sad farewell friend, much health and strength, we will miss you deeply and if you come back once a month I guarantee you will be welcomed back with such a positivity and sweetness you'll ask for more! <3