Can Leaving the military and moving onto civilian life be an incredibly exciting time?

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 13:58:32 -0500

GREAT Article for Transition - lost, but brought back from 2015 - check it out!

Can Leaving the military and moving onto civilian life be an incredibly exciting time?

Check out this article RP Members - Yes another article "pasted and copied" for those of you transitioning active duty members or you brand new veterans!

Some great advice and a military spouses perspective - hope it provides some good information! If you can't handle the copy and paste then move on!

SOLE-JUR! Most soldiers will find this haranguing, annoying scream from their commanding officer a thorn in their side. They’ve heard it day after day, year after year...for as long as they can remember. Leaving the military and moving on to civilian life is an incredibly exciting time. However, along with the excitement of new beginnings comes a huge dose of anxiety and uncertainty. Why? A soldier’s life is dictated to him or her while on active duty. They have regimens for everything including what time to get up in the morning, what time to start physical training, how many miles to run…the list goes on. It can be overwhelming to think about venturing out on your own, creating a résumé, building a professional network, and going through the arduous process of applying to, and interviewing for, jobs. It’s no wonder this is a serious bone of contention for many troops!

This piece is incredibly important to me, as I’ve been working with transitioning soldiers for years...and I’m married to a veteran. My hope is to shed light on the process, discuss some of the challenges, and provide not only a checklist for those men and women who are preparing to separate, but to hear firsthand from two brave men who gallantly fought and defended our country. They are: Sean Bode (U.S. Army) and Carl Soares, (U.S. Navy / U.S. Coast Guard.) I appreciate these gentlemen for their service and bravery…and for assisting me with this important career development piece that will no doubt benefit many transitioning soldiers.

The first stages of assimilation

Every soldier’s story is uniquely his or hers. Some were entrenched in bloody combat, others were not. Regardless, the psychological and emotional affects can take years to resolve -- if ever. When a soldier first returns home, it’s incredibly important to let him or her decompress. They may not feel like talking about “it” right now…or ever. Be respectful of their situation; offer your love, compassion and patience. Assimilation isn’t achieved overnight. It may take months -- even years. The process is different for everyone. Taking time to breathe, let go, and simply be is incredibly important. It’s great to have goals, but during the first few months, soldiers should simply work on getting back into some type of new routine. Your old normal will not be your new normal. It will take time and determination to realize and embrace your new life.

[“The transition for me was nerve wracking but I still had one foot in the door with the military as I currently serve in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. Having a good understanding of what you want, having a plan and executing it will make the transition much easier. Also, receiving the right support from groups and organizations will assist with the transition. The brotherhood and being part of an organization is an adjustment, but staying busy, going to school and utilizing the GI Bill helps because there is an end goal in sight. This is what I did -- and I had good friends and family support. In addition, I had my dogs. They were a critical component to my adjustment process.”] -- Carl Soares

The career planning process:

1) Realize that change is necessary and inevitable. The sooner you come to terms with this, the easier things will flow for you.

2) Reevaluate yourself and decide what you want to do. This is critically important -- self-awareness and self-evaluation!

3) Identify a list of options; don’t just settle on one industry. Be open to a variety of jobs and career fields.

4) Do your research; obtain information and fully understand the fields you’re interested in. Talk to individuals who work in the industries you're considering; network -- and seek advice from your mentors.

5) Assess your current education. Do you need to pursue additional degrees and/or certifications? This may be the perfect time to augment your résumé!

The importance of doing work you love

Working makes us feel useful and important. During tough times, it can serve as a diversion, and often helps us maintain our sanity. Simply working so that you can pay the bills each month isn’t very satisfying. Doing something you love, which you are truly passionate about, means everything. At the end of the day, you feel a sense of satisfaction and that, perhaps, you’ve made a small difference in the world. Those are the best careers to have. Understand that you may be forced to accept one or more positions before you reach your intended destination. It’s also about getting back to civilian life, meeting and networking with people, and applying the life and survival skills and experiences learned in the military to everyday situations. Returning to work and a daily routine are a huge part of the healing process. Granted, it takes some longer than others. It’s important not to compare yourself to others. Your experience is uniquely yours.

[“My advice to veterans would be to learn the KSE acronym: Knowledge, Strategy and Execute. Use this in making decisions about what you want to do in your career and life. Never stop learning...and keep up with technology. Understand cutting edge information about networking, mentorships -- and be social! Even for introverts…break out of your shell and get out there! Be practical in your decision-making process. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get the first job, just learn from it and build on it. Become so good at interviewing that you enjoy it. Also, understand that just because you’re a veteran, it doesn’t mean you’re qualified. Sometimes you need to begin a new career path.”] -- Carl Soares

Shattered expectations and creating new goals

Leaving the military and trying to establish a civilian career is difficult and often demoralizing for some soldiers. Many leave with a lofty title and expect that their transition will naturally lead them to a parallel position. This isn’t always the case. You may have to accept one or more jobs until you find a new career that you find satisfying and fulfilling. There may be part-time positions, contract or freelance work, or positions that you feel don’t really allow you to shine and utilize your arsenal of skills.

There are many factors to consider...including your family members. What will my husband or wife do if we move? Where will our kids go to school? What is the job market like? Are there ample job opportunities? What about our aging parents? Can I afford the cost of living? Evaluate first.

New frontiers -- and striking out

[“When I decided to leave Active Duty it was not because of my dream within the civilian sector, it was purely because I did not want to raise my family in a cycle where I was home for a year, gone for a year, home for a year, gone...rinse and repeat with no end in sight (back in 2008.) The one thing I did to prepare was to engage a junior military officer recruiting company. The great benefit there was they taught me about how to translate my military experience, polished my professional look, honed my story for an interview and refined my résumé. For all of the great things they helped with, what I did not do was take the time to reflect on my "why". What did I love doing and how could I find a career doing it? Instead, I went with an operations and leadership role that paid the right salary and I was done. I found a job, not a profession and left that company three years later.”] -- Sean Bode

The often complicated transition process

When you’re first released, do you have a clear idea of what you want to do? Have you taken the time to assess your needs and the needs of your family members? Do you feel prepared to create a résumé, utilize your GI bill, create a LinkedIn account, network online and in groups, and interview for jobs? For those who are dealing with PTSD, depression, anxiety, nightmares, mental, emotional and physical scars -- and disabilities, the entire process can seem completely overwhelming.

[“Figure out what you want to do. As a soldier you are serving something bigger than yourself, and if you jump into a job you don't care about, the other burdens will be harder to deal with. Don't jump straight into work, if possible. I did not use my terminal leave but started a week after getting out in my civilian role, but that left little room for a family transition.”] -- Sean Bode

Dealing with the mental and emotional aspects of combat

As difficult as it may be for some individuals, reaching out for help is crucial, and in some cases, it may mean the difference between life and death. It’s a frightening, sensitive topic that we don’t necessarily wish to address, but it’s there. Many troops spiral into a dark, haunting depression that can mean feeling suicidal -- or even acting on those feelings. I cannot stress enough how incredibly important is it to reach out. Call a suicide hotline and vent your frustration, walk out your front door and go talk to a neighbor, distract yourself with a video game...anything to snap yourself out of that immediate wretched feeling. There are programs and services in place to help veterans. Please reach out and ask for help! People really do want to assist you. You will need support with so many things -- not only assimilation, but learning new software, updated mobile phones, career counseling and finding a new job, perhaps purchasing your first home -- the list goes on. VA benefits are there for a reason and you should make good use of the resources available to you and your family.

[“Coming home, it was hard to transition…and realize that crowds or traffic were not a physical threat. I struggled with depression and PTSD. I finally took medical leave from work to go through intense counseling and deal with the demons of war.”] -- Sean Bode

A military wife’s perspective

As a military wife, I had first-hand experience with the transition process. When my husband and I first met, he was a completely different person than he is today. It took him a long time to shift gears and go from that constant “amped up” state of mind to a more relaxed way of interacting. Soldiers are always on high alert. They are surrounded by explosives, gunfire, screaming, and other noises that have an impact on your psyche because it’s constantly around you -- day and night. Returning to civilian life poses challenges because there are many triggers that can cause flashbacks...including noisy traffic, bustling crowds, and the pop! pop! pop! of fireworks. Adjusting your mental state is critical to a successful transition. This is tricky and you must give yourself permission to adjust -- taking all the time you need. Develop a constant, reliable support system comprised not only of family members and friends, but mentors, physicians, psychiatrists, and peers.

Military to Civilian Transition Checklist:

1) Do you know what you want to pursue and why you want to pursue it?

2) Do you have a solid transition plan? Are you being realistic? If you have a plan, do you also have a 'Plan B'? It’s important to hope for the best and be prepared in the event 'Plan A' doesn’t work out immediately.

3) Do you have a professional résumé? If so, have you had several individuals review it for content, grammar and flow? Do you have several versions for different industries?

4) Do you have a civilian presence on LinkedIn with a professional photo of yourself in business attire -- collared shirt and tie? *Note: no selfies, no sunglasses, no fatigues, no uniforms -- and no guns, please! This is part of adapting!

5) Are you utilizing your GI Bill while you’re searching for employment?

6) Are you networking professionally, not just online via social media, but in person in specialty-specific groups, for example, project management or human resources?

7) Are you a lifelong learner? Are you continuing to educate yourself and enhance your skills? Use your transition time to earn certifications, example: Project Management, Supply Chain, and Human Resources Professional.

8) Have you practiced your interviewing skills to become more comfortable with your responses?

9) Have you considered joining professional groups, such as Toastmasters, to refine your professional speaking skills and increase your confidence?

10) Have you posted your professional résumé on Monster.com, Indeed.com, CareerPark.com, CareerBuilder.com, MilitaryHire.com -- and many others?

11) Are you monitoring your digital footprint? Make sure there aren't photos or comments on the web that you don't want anyone to see. Clean up your act now! Make sure your online presence is squeaky clean!

12) Do you have professional business cards to carry with you and distribute at impromptu events?

13) Do you have professional mentors to help guide you with your professional endeavors? (*Tip: It’s a good idea to have several mentors from a variety of professions for maximum impact.)

14) Be aware of your military job codes and titles -- most employers won’t understand them. You must list job titles and responsibilities that explain what you did, and were responsible for. If they don't understand what you did, they may not talk to you or hire you. It's your responsibility to make sure your jobs, responsibilities, and achievements are universally understandable.

15) Are you pursuing volunteer opportunities, apprenticeships or internships to gain knowledge and expand your current skills set?

Final thoughts

We all experience pain, sadness and loss in different ways. The important thing is to take small steps that lead to big successes. Even if it means only doing a couple of seemingly minor tasks during the course of the day -- just get it done. Nobody is judging you…make sure you’re not judging yourself. Take as much time as you need, but continue to propel yourself forward. A soldier who makes a concerted effort to transition back into civilian living should be successful, even if it seems like it's taking forever. Surround yourself with positive people who love and care about you, get help when necessary, and allow the transition to develop with as much patience and persistence as possible. Know in your heart how much everything you did...and everything you sacrificed...means to us, as a country. Please be kind to yourself. You matter.

Crawling out of the foxhole and
walking into the boardroom isn't
easy for any soldier.

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Nov 5 at 2015 2:05 PM

SSG Audwin Scott — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:05:52 -0500

More like a scary and fearful time, especially if you spent most of your adult life in service.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 2:13 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:13:13 -0500

Great article sir. My transition was a long time ago, and was exciting because of the new experiences. I experienced a lot of anxiety, but advanced planning always worked to ensure that everything went as smoothly as possible.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Nov 5 at 2015 2:48 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:48:54 -0500

Stressful is the word I would use

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Nov 5 at 2015 2:53 PM

SGT Ben Keen — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:53:41 -0500

It can and it should be! Sure, it can be scary. You will have more questions than answers, more doubt than certainty. Yet, with the some hard work and preparation, your transition can be a successful one. While there are some Veterans whom feel that companies will be banging down their door to hire them, I believe we can give witness that this is not the case. More often than not, a Veteran will have to learn how to take their skills and knowledge and figure out how to apply them to civilian life. You need to take time and focus on crafting a resume that works FOR YOU rather than a resume that you work for. You have the skills, you have the talent, you have the drive, you just need to invest the time. Ask questions, reach out, seek input from others. Connect with Veternas either here or in your neighborhood. Again, INVEST THE TIME!

Last week, I spent time in Nashville talking to leaders in the staffing industry about Veterans and how the staffing industry can be a major player in ensuring Veterans have a successful transition. I told them that the transition is not a sprint, rather is it a marathon and along that marathon route Veterans encounter hurdles. Yet, with each hurdle crossed, our confidence builds. More often not, that first hurdle is employment. Finding that good, meaningful, life sustaining pay job. Sure, we may lack some of the skills employers are looking for yet if you take the time and invest it into the task at hands, you will see success over fear come now rather than later.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Nov 5 at 2015 3:34 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 15:34:47 -0500

It is definitely exciting! It is also, scary, uncertain with a bit of anxiety all rolled up into a little ball of goodness. We have spent years and years moving when we are told, moving to where we are told, where to work and what to do while we are at work. Priorities are set for us, deadlines are set for us, hell, even classes we need to take are set for us by someone else. Now either you are done with the service or it is done with you and YOU have to make ALL of those decisions. I think a lot of people forget this and once the SM starts to transition, it catches you off guard. Add to all of that, unless your service survived unscathed, you may not be able to be anything you want to be (regardless of what Mom says), you may be limited by your disabilities. So now you need to figure out what you want to be when you grow up, while also figuring out what you can be when you grow up.
Really, you just need to take it all one day at a time and make sure you are as prepared as possible along the way. God Bless brothers and sisters, go out there and fight for your place in the world.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 4:30 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 16:30:30 -0500

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Do you think Sir that for some it carries separation anxiety and some degree of emotional upheaval?

Response by LTC Jeffrey Strickland made Nov 5 at 2015 4:48 PM

LTC Jeffrey Strickland — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 16:48:45 -0500

I did it 10 years ago after 24 years of service. It was both exciting and scary. I do not regret any of it for a moment.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 7 at 2015 5:59 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 07 Nov 2015 17:59:18 -0500

I paid my dues, performed my service to the country, now I can open my wings and become whatever I want to be.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2015 11:48 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Nov 2015 11:48:10 -0500

I think it depends on individuals experience while in service.

Response by Denise Dowell made Nov 16 at 2015 11:42 AM

Denise Dowell — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 11:42:59 -0500

https://www.statefarm.com/careers/become-an-agent/from-military-to-agent

Check out State Farm agency--we have many successful State Farm agents that have military background.

From Military to Agent – State Farm

It???s a fact. We need your leadership. Meet some of our military to agent success stories here.

Response by CAPT Tom Bersson made Nov 16 at 2015 3:37 PM

CAPT Tom Bersson — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 15:37:10 -0500

Absolutely and I believe that Veteran's should hold their heads high and be proud of their service. And in some cases I hear regret that they left the military -- that should be thought about prior to leaving the service.

Response by SSG Jeff Beltran made Jun 11 at 2016 9:40 AM

SSG Jeff Beltran — Sat, 11 Jun 2016 09:40:49 -0400

When I looked at the end sight and the goal of Retirement and realized that this is a major significant event, then my transition was less stressful. Retirement will vary for each individual and what they want to do after they enter back into the civilian world. This can be especially tough for many people who have been institutionalized or programmed as a Service Member serving in Professional Career. Myself, I started my transition at year 15 and gradually deprogrammed or started preparing myself for this significant event in my life. I gave my all during my last few years and at the same time I took care of myself and my family and kept a balance on both. Today, as we go to our local Walmart and see folks who I associated with many of them do not even recognize me appearance wise with the grown out hair and beard and this is only three months into Retirement. So what does that say to you? That the Army for me has already moved on without me. I look forward to each day and Thank God Almighty for the daily blessing He has provided for me and my wife.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 16 at 2016 1:17 PM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 13:17:45 -0400

It was for me, mostly because I was retiring so had a pension to fall back on. Plus the fact that I found a job while I was still on terminal leave. There was one point where I got paid FOUR times in one month. Twice by the Navy (since I was technically still active duty) and twice by my job.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jun 16 at 2016 3:08 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 15:08:15 -0400

Generally it is a very exciting time COL Mikel J. Burroughs to leave the military service and become a civilian and veteran. I have done it three times and each time has posed unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Having a network of friends, family and others - in my case my local church - helped tremendously.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jun 16 at 2016 8:22 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 20:22:00 -0400

I final-outed earlier to day, like the Hollow Men by TS Elliot, it ends with a whimper.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Jun 17 at 2016 2:12 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 02:12:23 -0400

It was for me. Survival can be quite exciting.

Response by LT John Chang made Jun 18 at 2016 3:25 PM

LT John Chang — Sat, 18 Jun 2016 15:25:32 -0400

"It was the best of times.. it was the worst of times.." I'm reminded of the Dickens' words.
Years ago, I remember some workshop that was supposed to prepare us for leaving the military, where they said "expect to change jobs at least a few times, and more than likely multiple times.."

Of course, I thought that this didn't apply to me. Boy, did I have a lot to learn!

Since leaving the military, I've worked for AT&T as a project manager, gotten my real estate license, sold businesses, consulted for companies and individuals, co-founded a nonprofit, been an actor on film and television, started a commercial inspection business and taught others how to do the same.. and there is still no end in sight!

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Jun 21 at 2016 11:32 AM

LCpl Cody Collins — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 11:32:14 -0400

It was an exciting time for me back in 1988. Jobs were plentiful and Military experience was preferred. Now day the attitude towards the military has changed drastically. If possible apply for the Police Department or FBI or DNR ( Department of Natural Resources ) . Manufacturing is another get your foot in the door employment, Ford , Leer , ArcelorMittal to name just a few. If you have visions of sitting at a desk with a computer like some T.V. sitcoms were everyone looks like a fashion model and all is Sunday Flowers and Unicorns, forget it. It's a fairy tale. Keep your head up, with whatever you decide to do.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Jun 21 at 2016 11:39 AM

LTC Paul Labrador — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 11:39:10 -0400

It can be, depending on the circumstances. For me, It is an exciting time. I finally get to choose where I'm going to live. I have an in demand job skills so finding employment is more a matter of which job I want vs. taking what I can get. I am retiring so I have guaranteed income coming in. However, most folks aren't in the same position that I'm in and for them can be an extremely stressful time.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Jun 21 at 2016 1:55 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 13:55:42 -0400

Living the military is like a mission, it needs to be done, it will be done, and you better get all the intel on the mission and better train and prepare to fully accomplish the mission.

Response by SGT Roberto Mendoza-Diaz made Jun 21 at 2016 3:01 PM

SGT Roberto Mendoza-Diaz — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 15:01:15 -0400

Yes and No

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jun 21 at 2016 5:32 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 17:32:24 -0400

Being ARNG there no problems.

Response by SFC Craig Dalen made Jun 22 at 2016 10:30 AM

SFC Craig Dalen — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 10:30:24 -0400

Sir I will soon find out this feeling and be able to further comment.

Response by PFC Leander Yazzie made Jun 22 at 2016 11:34 AM

PFC Leander Yazzie — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 11:34:54 -0400

One word to rule them all and says it all BOOTY!!!

Response by SPC Shawn Wilbur made Jun 22 at 2016 7:29 PM

SPC Shawn Wilbur — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 19:29:40 -0400

It was hard to adjust to civilian life.

Response by SFC Mamerto Perez made Jun 23 at 2016 2:19 PM

SFC Mamerto Perez — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 14:19:20 -0400

Leaving the Military for civilian life can be a big shocker for some individuals after being in for a few years even in after retirement. Live is entirely different world such as living standards and living with neighbors that you would tolerate in the military.

Response by SSG Chad Carruth made Jun 25 at 2016 8:19 AM

SSG Chad Carruth — Sat, 25 Jun 2016 08:19:51 -0400

Yes having left the service myself there was a bit of excitement at one point but it faded as time went and I'd give almost anything to be back in. I was medically retired from the service so that also has an impact on how I felt after sitting on hold and then leaving

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2016 10:04 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Jun 2016 10:04:52 -0400

Well, that might be a different definition of excitement. For me being unemployed and looking for a way to feed my family was ...... well, not excitement.

Response by MSG Pat Colby made Jun 25 at 2016 11:10 AM

MSG Pat Colby — Sat, 25 Jun 2016 11:10:45 -0400

When I decided to retire it was a 2 year process.
~ I bought a fixer-upper house with the intention of flipping it. That plan worked. I walked out of the closing with a check for $34,000. (Just prior to the housing bubble bust.)
~ I purchased a used school bus and gutted most of the seats. It served as my personal storage unit and DITY Household goods transportation plan. Worked GREAT!
~ Did not want to be anywhere near a large city. Also wanted an acreage for critters.
~ Did some soul searching and realized we wanted to be close enough to Family that we could make visits but far enough away to make them think twice about just showing up for supper.
~ A year out, I took a 4 day road trip through Southern Minnesota and grabbed every newspaper and real estate brochure I could get my hands on. Also intensely checked out some preferred areas.
~ Happened upon an old Farm that was owned by a prior Army guy. During purchase negotiations I contacted him directly several times and smoozed over a Contract for Deed. A sizable down payment (the sale of my flip-house plus several Grand more) and $500 a month payments for 10 years.
~ My decision to fully retire at the age of 42 was made when I received notification of my 50% VA rating. That check along with my pension doesn't allow me to eat Steak every night, but I don't want to eat Steak every night.

I now base my life actions by the Seasons. I raise and personally butcher my own chickens and hogs every year. I have a garden the size of a city lot. We have 12 laying hens. I built a 20'x70' fully functional greenhouse. In the Summer I work on outdoor projects. In the Winter I work on indoor projects. My property value has increased by about 40% in the past 14 years due to all of the improvements. I'm surrounded by corn and bean fields and my nearest neighbor is a 1/4 mile away. I can (and have) dance naked on my barn roof because FREEDOM!

My biggest setback was not under my control when my Wife was diagnosed with cancer. Financially it set us back by 20 years. I had to sell a lot of stuff and re-finance (READ: Re-Purchase) my farm. She's fine now.

The only down side to my retirement is that I have no Peer groups. I don't mean that in an arrogant way. There aren't a lot of retired Military in the area. Many have served a few years but the handful of actual Military retirees are aged well in their 80's. I have no "sounding boards" nor can I offer support to anyone. (Besides internet groups like RP) I'm too young to hang out at the Senior Center in town. I'm too old to do the bar scene. I have many acquaintances but few true friends in the area. I think that's the biggest thing people retiring don't plan for. Replacing your Military Social Groups is tough as hell.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Jun 28 at 2016 12:43 AM

SSG Mark Franzen — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 00:43:31 -0400

IT ALL DEPENDS ON YOUR FRAME OF MIND IF YOU HAVE TO DEAL WITH PTSD AND OTHER THINGS THEN IT WOULDNT BE EXCITING.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jul 27 at 2017 6:31 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 18:31:18 -0400

Yes it can be... it can be traumatizing as well for some... some will go into a new job and have a really good work ethic and be thorough the way they were taught to do in the Military. They will be repulsed by the complacency of fellow workers ...
Some may lave and go where their thoroughness is appreciated... back to the Military. Maybe to the Reserve or Guard..
Air or Ground..

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2017 4:44 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 16:44:17 -0400

Can it? Of course. Especially if one already has a civilian job

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2017 4:54 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 16:54:03 -0400

For me it was not exciting. I was losing a career I loved. I was discharged on May 31 and did not find suitable employment until July.

But, all turned out well and after three years I learned that I could serve 8 years in the Reserve and salvage a military retirement at age 60.

Response by SGT Tomas "Huey" Husted made Aug 29 at 2018 4:34 PM

SGT Tomas "Huey" Husted — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 16:34:16 -0400

Leaving the Army was leaving a regimen of 4 years of life. I truly enjoyed those years despite some of the hell I was forced to endure. I had a plan for my future and it was up to me to follow through with it.As my bio reads I did exactly as I had planned. And as stated in this article I did miss my SGT status I missed my M 113 believe it or not. But I had no qualms about starting out at the bottom of the pole. I had no doubt that I could pull myself up. And as in my bio I followed the technology, I loved it and I strived to learn. I never went to college but my GT score was higher than more than one of my troops commanders who spent 4 years at the Point. This in itself instilled self-confidence. So I knew that no matter what, I could learn what was required and more. It was like 60% learning and 40% practical application. Don't mean to ring my own bell but it came natural. I got my foot in the door, I promoted up to the job I wanted, I learned and learned and I retired a Supervisor, a teaching Supervisor. If this man from nowhere Michigan could do it than you all can do it. And remember the advent of the computer and internet came after I started my career. All this advice given above should be heeded with extra emphasis on self-confidence and self- worth. Only you can sell yourself.

Response by SFC Dennis A. made Aug 29 at 2018 5:31 PM

SFC Dennis A. — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 17:31:15 -0400

I compare it to graduating from High School only now I have a wife and two kids to provide for. Can be scary if you don't plan for it.

Response by SGT Bonnie B. made Jun 28 at 2019 12:28 PM

SGT Bonnie B. — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 12:28:07 -0400

I think it's relative to the soldier, area that they live in, support channel and the private sector in that area. I can see that where I have been and it has been extremely difficult for veterans. For other veterans it' really been a fantastic experience and no issues or minimal ones. Great article thank you Adam is awesome

Response by COL Lee Flemming made Jun 28 at 2019 4:51 PM

COL Lee Flemming — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 16:51:06 -0400

It has been...! Have thoroughly enjoyed my retirement and new career at Amazon.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2019 1:11 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 01:11:40 -0400

Colonel, it was one of the most difficult things I have had to do. Transitioning from a military structure that was rigid and followed rules and regulations to a world that does what it feels like doing was the hardest. Yes, it was exciting, but nothing like the transition officer and NCO described. As far as employment I had a part time surgical tech position and went to full-time where I was the head surgical technician and supervisor.
Ans as for my spouse, well it was easy and she went with the flow.

Response by CSM Stuart Fuller made Jul 24 at 2019 6:54 PM

CSM Stuart Fuller — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 18:54:08 -0400

Good advice

Response by TSgt George Rodriguez made Jul 24 at 2019 6:57 PM

TSgt George Rodriguez — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 18:57:40 -0400

Good advice. When I retired from the military as a medic it was easy for me to move on to the civilian world. 1 month before my retirement I was given 30 days off and when I was still on active duty I worked part time at childrens hospital in Oklahoma City as a flight paramedic. On retirement I went full time. When a new Governor came on board the newest people that were hired by the state lost their jobs due to cutbacks. So I moved across the street to the VA hospital in their pulmonary lab. I could have challenged the Licensed practical nursing test and gone to work anywhere including nursing homes. I didn't. After so many years you get tired of medicine so I moved on to metal fabrication in working with aluminum. That lasted for 10 years before I retired. Fortunately I held a job in the military that related to the outside world. Not many have that opportunity. Take advantage of any educational programs that are available while still in the military. Education is a great thing if you use it. God bless all-ya-all as he has blessed me daily.

Response by SGT Steve McFarland made Jul 24 at 2019 7:48 PM

SGT Steve McFarland — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 19:48:34 -0400

I got out of the Army 42 years ago. I went back "home", so I had a place to live. I also had a skill - welding, so I was able to get a job in under two weeks. My schedule did change a bit, from 8 to 5, mostly Monday through Friday, to 6 to 4:30 Monday through Friday, and 6 to 2:30 on Saturday. My transition was pretty easy.

Response by SSG Franklin Briant made Jul 24 at 2019 8:04 PM

SSG Franklin Briant — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 20:04:52 -0400

For me I moved from one high stress occupation to another in the corrections field. Although not the military I found the discipline needed and the structure I was use to in the military. The transition was not that big. I fulfilled a second career that lasted another 20 years of rewarding service. Though it was a challenge, I thrived and rose in rank the way I did in the military. Added to that I returned to school and received my BS in the Criminal Justice field. All of this was the result of the military training and discipline I recived throughout my military career.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2019 10:05 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 22:05:06 -0400

For the many who stayed, I salute you all and thank you. I took three years to avoid the draft after college was not prepared for me and I had to leave. I extended another year (unfinished business)and I knew at the end I would have to go to OCS because too many NCO's were exiting with 17, 18 years. Some of my pals stayed until they could retire and had some difficult times adjusting but managed to survive once they learned to manage their own time. Divorce was high as it would be with the deployments and transfers so the carnage goes far beyond the obvious. I would hope that programs have been made available for ALL family members to adjust. I am one who would love to see the draft returned so others could build respect for each other and this country. We did not like each other many times but we darn well knew when the manure flew you were not alone.

Response by SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson made Jul 25 at 2019 11:36 AM

SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 11:36:06 -0400

When I enlisted that was the first change. From High-school directly into the military was a HUGE culture shock. As I saw in basic some didn't transition well, while others did. My first duty station was overseas, yet another HUGE transition; however, after basic it was welcomed. My first PCS back to the states was a bit difficult because of the friends and lifestyle I had created. Coming back to the USA was a bit of relief as I knew I was home (metaphorically) speaking. When I got close to my ETS date I really didn't worry too much as I knew that I had family and friends who would gladly welcome me with open arms. I never worried about what I would do in or out of the service, I was more focused on how I was preceived by my superiors and my family and friends. My philosophy is "life without change is a snooze." My guiding word has always been this:
Matthew 6:25-27 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. ... Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJTxzsHsako

Stevie Wonder - Don't you worry bout a thing

Stevie Wonder Live in London 2009

Response by PO1 Richard Nyberg made Jul 25 at 2019 3:22 PM

PO1 Richard Nyberg — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 15:22:54 -0400

It can be but I spent most of my life around the Military being an Army and then enlisting in the Army after I Graduated from high school in Germany and after 9.5 yrs and was a civilian for one year which was not really a good time for me I went into the Navy for 11 yrs and retired. By that time I was ready to get out but it was still a scarey time. It took me a couple of years to change from being military to civilian life. Now it's been 31 yrs but some times I miss it.

Response by CPT Scott Sharon made Jul 25 at 2019 4:24 PM

CPT Scott Sharon — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 16:24:41 -0400

Thanks COL Burroughs. I will pass this along.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2019 5:44 PM

Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 17:44:34 -0400

Great article Col.!!! Thank you for sharing ! Shared to FB !!!

Response by LTJG Josh Thaxton made Jul 25 at 2019 6:31 PM

LTJG Josh Thaxton — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 18:31:29 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs This is a great article and thank you for the tag. I love the saying, "Crawling out of the foxhole and walking into the boardroom isn't easy for any soldier." The transition is difficult (some days more than others) and understanding AND thinking like a civilian is different. Seems like when you take 3 steps forward, you end up taking 2 steps back the next day. You just have to focus on the 1 step forward and not the 2 steps back and stay positive. Thanks again!

Response by SFC Kenneth G. made Aug 2 at 2019 6:33 AM

SFC Kenneth G. — Fri, 02 Aug 2019 06:33:30 -0400

Moving from military to civilian life, especially after 20+ years can be a hard time on a family unless it is properly planned for about 4 to 5 years in advance. Things like knowing where you plan to retire, buying your home, getting into the job market, etc., can be quite an impact on a family in the final few years of military service. I was one of the lucky ones that got the opportunity to serve in recruiting for my last 5 years and I decided to retire where I was, which was not far from where I was raised. We had our home already bought, and I had a job lined up in the local school to teach JROTC. I simply went from being a soldier to teaching as a soldier. After a year and a half, when I decided that wasn't for me, I began to venture out and look for other opportunities. The uniform was ready to be put up and I was ready to be a civilian. I had already taken the postal exam before I left service and was waiting for my number to come up for hiring. I took on a job that was contracted out and luckily after a month at $9.00 an hour, I got the call for the interview at the Post Office which was about 30 minutes from my home. I got the job and stayed on the contracted job until I went for my orientation 2 weeks later. Everything worked out for me just fine. I had seen however, the impact of leaving the service had on some of my soldiers in the past. They would call and say that it was hard to find a job or they couldn't find a house that was in their price range, etc. These are things that military members need to be looking at about 2 years out from leaving the service to get themselves prepared for the transition to civilian life. It is both exciting because you are taking on a new role in life and it is grueling because a lot of work and blood, sweat, and tears may have to go into it if your are not prepared properly.

Response by PFC Kayla Dasse made Aug 2 at 2019 7:48 AM

PFC Kayla Dasse — Fri, 02 Aug 2019 07:48:56 -0400

I was excited but It was the biggest mistake of my life.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Aug 11 at 2019 8:22 PM

SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM — Sun, 11 Aug 2019 20:22:17 -0400

It a time of many uncertainties - and surprise! However, the rewards of civilian life can be many!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2019 12:19 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 12:19:31 -0400

I recently made the decision to hang up the uniform after 32 1/2 years of service. I could have stayed an additional 22 months, but the last assignment was just too much. I don't care to keep going anymore. The good news is, when I posted on FB that I was going to retire, the support I received from friends and family was overwhelming. One friend even said he and the rest of the crew would road trip to my apartment with a box truck and move me back for free. Plus, several other friends said that my military experience/education would likely land me in a great civilian job.

My retirement physical is on Monday.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 7 at 2019 6:10 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 18:10:24 -0500

The transition was a needed event as I could no longer perform well.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2020 6:06 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 18:06:01 -0400

Resigning from the Regular Army at 17 years is the best career decisions I ever made. Taking your life back is a fantastic feeling. I cant say the same about my decision to switch to the Army Reserve.

Response by CPT Earl George made Apr 19 at 2021 7:41 PM

CPT Earl George — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 19:41:40 -0400

I have a rough time not telling military stories that may relate to present circumstances. My wife does NOT like to listen to them. She has reminded me often.