Why not determine your fair price, and claim that as a gift on taxes next year. This way you pay homage for the service of this military man and get return your time as monetary gift for your goods and services.

This sound advice for your situation. At some point, anyone who has progressed from film, P and Shoot, or even DSLR, ponders the same. My advice, determine your budget, research, and make your choice, if you are photography lover, this will be a lifelong quest. Good luck.