Airshark says:
... Trailhead could keep the gun and the cash ... probably there is another reason for that ...
Yes. They rolled twice, using two Benefit rolls. You can make more rolls later when you actually Muster Out. Each time you need to choose before you roll if it is Cash or Benefit.
Airshark says:
... But 40k will by me all the equipment I can carry ...
True.
You can spend up to 10K of any Cash you have before we start, but the rest you will have to keep. You can buy stuff in RP, if the story allows, prices may vary based on where you are and what you are buying.
Airshark says:
... nor being a dilletante ...
It would be the 'easy way out', so not doing that could be more interesting. :)
Airshark says:
... Navy looks more interesting ... officer might be the way to go here considering my age and previous career ...
Your University Graduation would have allowed you to try to enter the Navy as an officer if you went straight there, but, since you spent time in another Career, you will have to enter as a grunt and try your luck with a Commission roll if you survive your first term.
Airshark says:
Guess this doesn't apply. Bit worried about qualifying for the navy.
You still get the +1 to Qualify, that is not limited to 'first Career after Graduation'.
With SOC 10 you can try to become an officer every Term, less well connected people only get one chance.