I would assume active military service would be a plus. Question, though, if you have 14 years of experience and you're only 31, that would mean your experience started at 17? So that means 14 years of experience including in the army?
As far as i know they don't send out updates. I got an email saying my application was incomplete, sent them what they wanted, and it updated on sparks and I didn't get another email, so don't sweat it.
I'm applying for MC/MPA as part of a fellowship program, btw. What's everyone applying for?