How are you ensuring that you are ready for the transition?

CH (CPT) Heather Davis — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 08:03:15 -0400

http://www.military.com/daily-news/2014/10/01/study-finds-troops-arent-ready-for-civilian-life.html

Study Finds Troops Aren't Ready for Civilian Life

A new study released Tuesday says half of U.S. troops return to civilian life with untreated mental and physical illnesses, and one in every 10 has thought of suicide or planned to take their lives.

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Oct 1 at 2014 8:06 AM

CH (CPT) Heather Davis — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 08:06:57 -0400

I was recently at Camp Atturbury and many Majors received the news that they have been selected for mandatory retirement. It is imperative to fine tune and prepare yourself for the next chapter in your life.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Oct 1 at 2014 9:06 AM

MSG Wade Huffman — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 09:06:42 -0400

Ma'am, this article is somewhat startling to me. I have known for a long time that most leave service without the appropriate level of knowledge on resume writing, networking, financial planning, etc, but this study shows major issues in the basics, such as housing and medical care (both physical and mental). Eye opening, and distressing.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2014 11:50 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 11:50:12 -0400

That is true because as much as soldiers are responsible for their career development, I think leadership is failing them to. Most of our NCOs are more concerned about their careers than anybody below them. They have ERBs full with military schools they have attended but will not give soldiers below them the information needed or the guidance required for them to get enrolled in some of those schools and classes.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Oct 2 at 2014 2:11 AM

1SG Michael Blount — Thu, 02 Oct 2014 02:11:38 -0400

Right now, ma'am, I'm running around like a rodent on crack trying to find a home and finish out my career.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 4 at 2014 6:00 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 18:00:28 -0400

I keep up with the latest IT job openings and make sure I network with GS workers so I know when a potential employment opportunity may open up. I keep my technical certifications and resume' up to date, while obtaining more certifications for the job I want. I'm currently scheduled to take the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification in December while I'm on break from my Masters in Information Management through Syracuse. Really its about being prepared for the inevitable separation that we all face at some point.