Start by cutting down the false notion that God and Jesus have given you no rules.  Secondly, understand that if going to Church "has minimal value and importance [to you]," you can't possibly believe in the Eucharist or Real Presence.  Because if you did believe that you receive Jesus himself in the Eucharist, it would fill you with such unspeakable awe and joy that yu would want it to be the permanent state of your soul.  You'd never miss Mass or the Eucharist.  

As for some rules not making sense:  Not all of God's rules are palatable, or even sensible to us.  Still, do as Jesus said:  "If you love me, keep my commandments."  In deference to your well-meaning friends from whom you learned much in the Army:  You could have, if you want, have an army of friends who full of love for the Lord.