[fintstone]

Folks in Federal civil service (CSRS System) did not pay SS either until the mid 80s. They had a very generous retirement system that they contributed to that provides then full COLA as well (but no SS). The newer system FERS is also contributory, but much, much less generous. It has a partial COLA that reduces the value of it whenever inflation is relatively high. It also has a matching 401K and employees pay SS.

Yes. A military retirement is pretty great (but often requires some difficult years to earn). One could certainly enjoy the rewards of their sacrifice for a very long time (and COLA keeps it pretty much at the same buying power). If they continue to work, they can choose to invest or save that money until actual retirement.