Mike,
Congrats on taking the first steps to what is easily the best thing you can do for yourself.
I'm a pilot in the AF, so I know all about the institutional drive to chew\dip. I had chewed for just over 20 years when I found this site just a couple days into my quit. I know that the initial stages can be challenging, but your mindset has to be focused on the overall goal. I don't think it is any different than starting any long course of instruction, we've both done plenty of that. Instead of looking at in on a continuum, just take it day by day. I quit with you today, and I give you my word. Let tomorrow be tomorrow, and we will take a pledge with each other again. There will be good days and bad days, but it is absolutely worth it.
PM me if you have any questions or need someone to vent to or be accountable to. I'm absolutely here to help you quit man.
Doug