I was in the USMC at the time (though we weren't allowed in combat then - not even in combat zones unless we were medical), so it seemed like the thing to do, I guess. And that blue cloak with the stars was awesome too (I spent a few days in that state.)

The thing you may be forgetting about the ring was that it corrupted anyone who carried it, and the more power the person had to begin with, the faster that happened, and the more harm it could do. So it was important that it be carried by someone with very little power. That's why Gandalf wouldn't take it. Be glad he didn't. You think the Shire was already bad in Book 6? You ain't seen nothin' yet.