What is one benefit/program that you missed out on when transitioning from the military that you could share with current service members?

SPC Dane DeGrace — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 14:29:43 -0500

Out of curiosity and being able to better support veterans, student veterans in particular, what's that one thing you feel like you missed out on?

Response by CA Delete D. made Jan 22 at 2018 3:23 PM

CA Delete D. — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 15:23:22 -0500

Using TA to finish a bachelors

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2018 4:36 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 16:36:51 -0500

SPC Dane DeGrace I was discharged in June, 1972. I started working full time and went to school using the G.I. Bill. With my schedule, I did not have much spare time, but it would have been nice to have a veterans club.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2018 4:46 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 16:46:06 -0500

I somehow didn't know that the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) allots veterans up to 180 days of a reduction of their APR to a max of 6% on debts accrued while on active duty. Definitely should have used it.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Jan 23 at 2018 10:43 AM

CSM Richard StCyr — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 10:43:52 -0500

I like the Soldier for life program. When I worked for the Corps our shop sponsored three Soldiers, two were senior NCOs preparing for retirement and one was an NCO who needed round out training before moving to a follow on assignment.
It was great in that the shop gained three motivated and experienced workers on the Army's dime and the two NCOs working on retirement gained valuable civilian work experience and job contacts that led to well paying civilian construction jobs and the Active duty NCO reported to their follow on assignment ready to excel. Win , win program for all concerned.

I also like the VA work study program. Pays a little over minimum wage but again it builds contacts and networks and allows folks to attend school full time while making a supplemental income.