Posted on Aug 19, 2015
Retirees, Veterans: how did you feel when you were first discharged from your branch of the military.
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Transition
Retirement
Civilians
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 43
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I needed to create new goals, learn new skills to compete with civilian peers, and learn how to be a productive Veteran.
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SPC Margaret Higgins
I am indeed impressed with you; SGT (Join to see). You sound amazing; actually.
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SGT (Join to see)
Ma'am, that's because I haven't bombarded you with a dozen questions yet. I haven't come to a place where I feel the need to get more into photography or recreational activities. That might change your mind.
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SPC Margaret Higgins
Seriously, if you ever have the need for information, help, support- please do message me. I'd be happy to help, and happy to learn from you; as well. SGT (Join to see)
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I was very scared; as I was afraid that I would be homeless again. It turned out that my sister was kind enough to let me stay with her.
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SFC Douglas Duckett
Not having direction is a bad thing. It removes purpose and a sense of belonging. When I got out my first time, I lived in my parent's motor home for about three months, until I got my own place. I did not prepare well then, that changed this last go-around.
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SPC Margaret Higgins
I am ever so happy for you; SFC Douglas Duckett. Keep on improving; and keep up the great work!
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SPC Margaret Higgins I felt as though my purpose had been surgically removed. Taking care of Soldiers was so much more than a mantra for me. When I no longer had that responsibility, I felt abandon and somewhat worthless. Overtime, I realized this is not the case. Instead it was a passing of the Saber to another. I still receive calls from Soldiers asking military related questions and also asking for help, assistance, and advice. That is the highest compliment ever paid.
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Relieved that I don't have to put up with all the BS that goes on with wearing the uniform.
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SSgt Alex Robinson
SPC Margaret Higgins - The military is not a daycare center. There are reponsibilities that go with being on active duty. The last I checked the military only gave ID cards to adults. Adults should understand there are things they will like and dislike about their chosen path. There are protocols and politics in all spectacular of life and on all chosen forms of employment. That's called life.
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SPC Margaret Higgins
SSgt Alex Robinson - I know and knew that. I was talking about Cpl Tou Lee Yang You don't think that I knew that as a Squad Leader; Staff Sergeant?
Just saying...
Just saying...
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I had planned on doing at least 20 years. Had just reenlisted for another 6 at about my 11 year mark, when my marriage went bad and ended in divorce leaving me with three children. I responded to a similar question concerning my discharge on an earlier thread. The Army discharged me on a chapter 5 within 90 after my divorce. The following 90 days were the darkest of my life. It took every effort to regain the confidence I lost upon my discharge. That was in 1989. My kids are grown productive members of society now and although I still harbor some dark thoughts from time to time, I am happy the way things have turned out.
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SPC Margaret Higgins
You are VERY COURAGEOUS; SSG Red Hoffman. I am sure that it took EVERY OUNCE of EFFORT on your part; to regain your confidence after your "dark days".
Life was Very unfair to you there for awhile; but you have TRIUMPHED. CONGRATULATIONS, Staff Sergeant.
Life was Very unfair to you there for awhile; but you have TRIUMPHED. CONGRATULATIONS, Staff Sergeant.
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Sgt Sabrina Williams
I had planned to do 20 also. I did complete 13 years. The reason I didn't do 20 was I had already missed so many of my children first. First words, teeth, steps, etc. I didn't want to missed their last like prom, getting a drivers license, graduation, etc. I wanted to be a part of some things before they left to be on their own.
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SSG Red Hoffman
Thanks for your thoughts. SPC Higgins and SGT Williams. Like I said, I still do have dark thoughts from time to time, but I feel there was a great benefit being around my children during their informative years.
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Like a fish out of water.. After 24 years it's hard adjusting. I've been out for a year and a half and I still miss it.
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SPC Margaret Higgins
You gave us a truism about how you really feel/felt; SFC John Birks I am Positive, that after 24 years, it is incredibly hard to adjust.
SFC John Birks: I was in for approximately three years; and had to get out. (disability) But I went to the Presidio Army Base (Now a National Park) every day for a year; I missed the Army so much.
SFC John Birks: I was in for approximately three years; and had to get out. (disability) But I went to the Presidio Army Base (Now a National Park) every day for a year; I missed the Army so much.
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SPC Margaret Higgins
SSG Diane R.: Diane, I am exceedingly sorry about all of your despair, etc. I send to you, Diane, big hugs, fervent prayers, and all of my love. -Margaret
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Honestly, I didn't feel anything. I didn't consider myself a veteran. I have NO idea what a DD 214 meant or what "power" it held. Free, sure. Things were a lot different 20+ years ago at discharge time, but I do remember a great deal of material I had no interest in, I was just looking for the next chapter.
It wasn't until 10 years after ets that I had any interest in anything remotely "military". I happened into a VFW with a non military friend for breakfast. It was one of the best things that ever "happened" to me. It changed my life and the course of my career. It began my education into all things veterans. Okay, off course a bit. I have attended several Yellow Ribbon events and Stand Down events. What I walked away with is almost none of the soldiers/veterans attending events that were mandatory actually wanted to be there and had no interest in retaining information.
It wasn't until 10 years after ets that I had any interest in anything remotely "military". I happened into a VFW with a non military friend for breakfast. It was one of the best things that ever "happened" to me. It changed my life and the course of my career. It began my education into all things veterans. Okay, off course a bit. I have attended several Yellow Ribbon events and Stand Down events. What I walked away with is almost none of the soldiers/veterans attending events that were mandatory actually wanted to be there and had no interest in retaining information.
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Sad, mine was due to an injury I incurred from an accident and I wasn't ready to leave the military. I have come to terms with the decision that was made and they made a good decision. Do I like it? Not for a second. I do, however, understand it.
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SPC Margaret Higgins
You have a VERY mature and balanced attitude about the decision that was made on your behalf; SPC David S.. I am SURE that it wasn't and hasn't been easy for you. I pray that you have found a career that you Love; and I pray that you and your family are living comfortably.
-With Love, SPC Margaret Higgins
-With Love, SPC Margaret Higgins
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SPC Margaret Higgins
I am sure it has taken many, many months for you to come to accept this decision. Nevertheless, CONGRATULATIONS on your finally accepting it. Many, I am sure, Never come to accept decisions that have been made on their behalf.
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