Starter 2003 montana (Hanging???or normal)

When I start my montana, it feels like the starter is engaged until the motor starts and then it disengages. It almost feels like the bendix does not release till the ring gear pushes it out. I just turn to start position and let go of the key, but the starter stays engaged till it starts. Is this a normal feature. This would not allow one to bump the motor in short spurts (if you wanted to bring the #1 piston to tdc.)
Any comments appreciated

My boss's `03 Tundra does that also, must be a new feature, but will suck for setting timing, or if you hear a cat scream....