What was the hardest part of military retirement for you?

Georgeann Carter — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 06:59:03 -0500

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Mar 5 at 2018 7:11 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 07:11:24 -0500

Georgeann Carter: GREAT QUESTION! Looking for a job.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Mar 5 at 2018 7:13 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 07:13:26 -0500

I can't speak for myself as I have encountered no real issues other than health. That said, I know of some people now out longer than they were in who cannot come to grips with the fact they are no longer on active duty.

Response by CSM Chuck Stafford made Mar 5 at 2018 7:17 AM

CSM Chuck Stafford — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 07:17:02 -0500

Retiring was easy - I earned that, but finding fulfilling work where the workforce has focused goals and a communal sense of urgency is difficult. I ending working back within the DoD sphere.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Mar 5 at 2018 7:24 AM

SSG Warren Swan — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 07:24:46 -0500

Accepting it

Response by LTC Jeff Shearer made Mar 5 at 2018 7:40 AM

LTC Jeff Shearer — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 07:40:03 -0500

great question Georgeann, for me it is feeling like I have no influence on anything. Before I felt like I was part of the solution, the knuckle dragging barbarian part of the solution but still part. Now I worry about our people before I guess I may have before but was to busy with trying to execute, execute, execute.

Georgeann I dont want to leave this on a negative; I have had more fun with my wife/best friend/girl friend, oh same person. We do all kind of stuff, she and I went to DC for several days and saw as much as we could. We spent a day at all the memorials and finished at Arlington.

I love being retired but especially with all the instability in the world I think I need to be there but I know they dont need me.

Sorry Georgeann this was tough before I finished my coffee, and no I am not crying as far as you know hahaha

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Mar 5 at 2018 7:48 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 07:48:00 -0500

Missing the comradeship.

Response by MSG Louis Alexander made Mar 5 at 2018 7:58 AM

MSG Louis Alexander — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 07:58:55 -0500

Believe it or not, adjusting to civilian life. Funny isn’t it all the time you spend flopping around the globe and dreaming of the day to live the life of Riley than suddenly, Wham! Bam! You’re a civilian. You wake up at 0400 hours, grab a cup of Joe, walk outside to watch the troops do P.T. and nothing, not a damn sound! Talk about eerie, that was the spookiest moment of my life. LOL

Response by SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez made Mar 5 at 2018 8:08 AM

SSG Jose M. Hernandezsanchez — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 08:08:57 -0500

Georgeann,
I have been retired for four years now, and work at a federal building in Washington D.C. Some of the things that drive me insane is the fact that there is no communication from one shift to another...within the same section! Like the GSA Engineers supervisors, as soon their shift is done, they're out! I work with two other gentlemen in my section, but only one of us work at the time/shift. When we change over, we make sure to pass on all important events that occurred during the shift. Sometime we have to work during the night hours, and when something happens, all I hear is "leave it for that day shift crew". Huh?
As far retiring goes, it was pretty easy for me because I knew in my mind it was my time...it was time for me to hang the gloves and do something else. But I do miss it, I miss the friends I made, I miss the fuel smell from the C-130 engines as we enter the plane for a jump. It didn't matter if you liked the person on the right or left, things will get done. Out here in the civilian world/government, totally different story.

Response by CPO Nate S. made Mar 5 at 2018 8:10 AM

CPO Nate S. — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 08:10:20 -0500

Ungrateful civilians for my (our) service and sacrifice. Their lips move, but they are stuck in the mud of mediocrity. They "feel sorry" for veterans, but lack the courage to really get to know them! When it get uncomfortable for them the turn tail and run.

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Mar 5 at 2018 8:21 AM

Maj Marty Hogan — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 08:21:47 -0500

Not there yet. 3 and a half more years. Will not be hard at all. Give it your 100% and turn it over to the next gen.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 9:08 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 09:08:51 -0500

I still have 6 years to go till that day comes, That being said I had 30 years being a Civilian before I joined so I don't see an issue.

What I do have is good observation skills and this is what I have seen. I have known many vets that cant hang it up once they get out. The Uniform is such a part of their being that they no longer want to be a Civilian. Some its the Drug of War, Some its the sense of purpose and others is simply knowing their exact position in the world around them. Some end up working in gun stores, Army Surplus stores, become Cops, or a Security Guard, and a lot end up back with the DoD in some contract position. I have had people who retired in the 80's and 90's try to give me orders, always followed by Well I'm a Retired (enter rank here) I have to gently remind them that the operative word is retired and to stay in their lane. These are the people that put their old uniforms on for every occasion. They show up at every military function in their old uniform, along with weddings, funerals, and anything between. They can not put that part of their life in the past.

I am not saying we all end up this way, many do their time and then go find a 9 to 5 job. Their military service while significant it did not define them as a person but was simply a part of their being.

While I understand the first group I pity them, my understanding comes from the devotion to the ideal of America that they signed up to defend. These are not your "I signed up for college" kids. They are the true believers. They fought in WWII, Korea, Nam, Desert Storm 1 and 2, and Afghanistan, They believe in the Ideals of America and drank the Kool-Aid (and it tastes good) Now they are in a world that does not seem to value the Constitution, the American principals and ideals they fought to defend. They are lost, adrift in a Nation that wont look up from their phones for two seconds to see Truth. They are clinging on to the last vestige of sanity and familiarity they understand. With the ones I know I try and help them, talk with them, listen to them, its the least we owe those who have come before us.

Just two cents from an old salt.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Mar 5 at 2018 9:10 AM

SGM Steve Wettstein — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 09:10:38 -0500

Georgeann Carter Excellent question. Missing the comradery of being with Soldiers on a daily basis. It's been four years and it's still hard not having Joes around.

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Mar 5 at 2018 9:19 AM

1SG Frank Boynton — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 09:19:32 -0500

Leaving

Response by MSgt Stephen Council made Mar 5 at 2018 9:23 AM

MSgt Stephen Council — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 09:23:48 -0500

Georgeann Carter I do not even know where to begin. It was so very stressful. Still dealing with it.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Mar 5 at 2018 9:29 AM

SSG Edward Tilton — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 09:29:37 -0500

Medical Care, Base closings. I went through TEN Base Closings in the San Francisco Bay area and was left with over 100 mile trip to the Commissary. Tri-Care and Dental Insurance were bad. I moved to Ft Huachuca ten years ago. At that time the VA Clinic was in the Army Hospital and all was fine. I have both VA (100%) and Tri-care for life, and TDRL for my wife. If the VA needed labs etc. I could walk next door to the Army Hospital and get them. This was WAY TOO EASY not to be screwed up by Congress. The Army Hospital is almost closed, even Active Duty are sent to a civilian hospital. The VA wants me to travel 70 miles for labs or an Xray. I am old and sick now and can barely get to Tucson alive. It has gone down Hill

Response by GySgt Warren Kemble made Mar 5 at 2018 9:58 AM

GySgt Warren Kemble — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 09:58:10 -0500

Dealing with civilians. My first job was IT Support, getting information from civilians as to what their problem was, was difficult. It took about 6 months for me to adjust. Plus my supervisors told me I talked rather loud. I thought I was talking normal.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 10:09 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 10:09:17 -0500

Being TAD to the transient barracks while processing out, coming back from overseas, Not an atmosphere a 26 plus year sailor should have to deal with.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Mar 5 at 2018 10:16 AM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 10:16:35 -0500

The hardest part for most and for me I guess is that we have a wealth of experience in leadership and being able to pick up and do pretty much anything thrown at us. Private industry doesn't see that at all. They just see a retired used up military member that doesn't know anything but weapons and killing and nothing could be more farther than the truth. A friend of mine got hired and showed up in a coat and tie for a professional position. He was cornered by several people and was told not to dress like that because the company leadership would expect everyone in the office to dress like that and they didn't want him to rock the boat...he was also cornered for working late to get a project out and was told to slow down and let it wait till the next day because they didn't want to change the work ethic in the office. Guess you really never get used to it. Once you have poured your blood sweat and tears into something for over 25+ years it is just who you are..it is in your DNA. It is a different chapter in life and you adjust...new normal I guess is the best term.
For me the hardest part was relearning what to wear. I still have to ask my wife every day if what I have on matches and if it is ok for work or wherever I am going. I wore blue and green for so long that I just fell off that fashion train a while back but my wife and daughter have got me back on it.
The second thing is that I worked in industry for a year because I wanted a clean break from service. Where I worked was a steel manufacturing company that made golf shafts and pulle other steel products. They hired me because they could get their "veteran" credit...not that I wasn't qualified but they needed a veteran. This place had way outdated equipment and processes, their scrap rate was 20% and that was acceptable, supervisors there were to be seen and not heard and the Union ran the plant which drove up costs and sent some work overseas to China. I was the last one hired so the first one out the door when layoffs came and that was the best thing that happened to me. I then got the GS job on base and been here for 6 years now. However, no one realizes I am a retired AF Officer and treat me like a stinking civilian versus listening to experience. But I am with the active duty folks and I am ok with that as it somewhat keeps me in the game.
Civilian life is a hard transition for most because the private sector is driven by profit and bottom line versus mission oriented. That is the recurring theme that I get when I talk to retired military folks that have entered the work force.

Response by SMSgt Keith Klug made Mar 5 at 2018 11:00 AM

SMSgt Keith Klug — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 11:00:16 -0500

For me it was saying goodbye to a way of life I had been living since I was 18. I loved my time in the military and would have loved to stay longer, but my career field had changed too much for me and it was time to leave (I got tired of putting on the uniform everyday).

When I moved to the "civilian side" I really noticed how much people just care about themselves and only doing things that is best for them. I found this on the military side too, especially from some SNCOs in the Air Force, but not as much as I see it on the civilian side.

Response by MAJ Javier Rivera made Mar 5 at 2018 11:16 AM

MAJ Javier Rivera — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 11:16:27 -0500

Two folded answer: 1) leaving the service after my entire adult life- 27 years m total; and 2) finding a job with purpose that also cared for its employees. I did very good on my immediate after service job but could deal with the profit is the main goal mentality. Also, I sure miss works with troops from all kinds of backgrounds; waiting for the day’s amazing surprises those young soldiers were capable of doing!

Response by MSG Charles Turner made Mar 5 at 2018 12:02 PM

MSG Charles Turner — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 12:02:22 -0500

Not having the ability to participate. Even when I was not as successful as I would have wanted while I was a Soldier, now I no longer have the ability to actively participate.

Response by SCPO Jason McLaughlin made Mar 5 at 2018 12:14 PM

SCPO Jason McLaughlin — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 12:14:22 -0500

Growing my hair out. Wasn't quite as thick as it was when I went into the Navy. Turns out I like to keep it short. But, the beard is reaching epic length!! Also having to pick out something to wear every day. What a pain-in-the-a$$!

Response by PO1 Brian Austin made Mar 5 at 2018 12:15 PM

PO1 Brian Austin — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 12:15:34 -0500

Biggest was learning to deal with the "civilian mentality". While overseas the difference between contractors who had served and those who hadn't was like night and day, especially with the young guys who hadn't served.
In my current job i'm not a "leave it for the next shift" type of guy. It's led to words between me and co-workers at times...Them: "You make me look bad." Me: "No, You don't need my help. You do a great job of that all by yourself."
At least there's a retired USMC Gunny who works in the hospital kitchen. We commiserate a lot together...lol

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Mar 5 at 2018 12:25 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 12:25:37 -0500

For one thing I miss the Military people I had worked with although I'm still in contact with a number of them.

Response by SGT Jim Ramge, MBA made Mar 5 at 2018 12:30 PM

SGT Jim Ramge, MBA — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 12:30:06 -0500

As a Soldier, you are taught to fight for and earn everything in your career. At 10 years and prior to 9/11, I was being medically boarded out of the military. I worked with the PEBLO, listened to the options, and quite honestly had no real indications of the things to come. Was initially given a zero percent rating and then thought. Why are we even going through this then? Then the CoC looked at its options and basically said we cannot maintain you in your condition and re-filed. The board came back with a 10% rating. A little shocked with their decision, but at the same time, not shocked, I asked the PEBLO, what my options were. Basically, I could sign it as is, accepting the outcome, and take a lump sum, and would have to pay back the VA before acquiring any benefits from them. Or, you could acquire the services of the free lawyer, and go before the board and plea your case, and if granted, possibly be granted a medical retirement provided you obtain the minimum 30%.
I went home, spoke with my spouse, my unit, called up to the boards lawyers, sent the lawyer the packet and told him if he thought there was something in the packet he thought was worth fighting for, to give me a shout. I sent the packet up, and within 30 minute of receiving, I had a phone call - “SGT Ramge, can you get up here next week?”
So, ultimately, I fought the hard administrative fight with the Army red tape and won... However, after the mentally exhaustive 24-month fight that I was dealing with as this was pre-9/11 and no one in my CoC had dealt with, nor had the answers, could offer any guidance, consolatory shoulder, or anything of the nature as at the time, few folks were getting put out, I was mentally drained! I truly was on my own...
When everything was said and done, I received my DD214 and the almighty blue retired ID Card, I was both happy and depressed. I was happy I had fought the good fight and won the benefits for my family so Incase something ever happened to me down the road, at least they had something... However, as far as my earning, it took me a number of years to sit back and reflect on what I had done while in the service and why I was medically retired to have acquired one, because I’m about 11.5 yrs active shy of having earned! All the best to those that have my Brothers and Sisters!

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 5 at 2018 12:32 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 12:32:00 -0500

I retired into a nice job with a Government Contractor--a privately owned consulting and IT firm. My biggest challenges were understand "profit" and corporate internal and external relationships.

Profit is the driving force behind most private sector companies. The "bottom line" really is the most important measure of success. If you are contributing to the bottom line, then you are valuable to your employer. You need to log billable hours and help grow the business if you want to remain employed and move up in the company. It took me about a year to learn to think about the impact of my work on these two factors. After I caught on I was pretty good at contributing to the bottom line, but remained a poor marketeer. Consequently, my upward advancement was stopped at the project manager level.

The relationships among your company, other similar companies, suppliers, and customers is complex. Today's competitor may be tomorrow's subcontractor, a.k.a "team partner." It's wise to approach all other companies in your industry with tact and respect. I was used to a world of fairly clear good and bad guys. In the military the US and our Allies were the good guys and anybody else was a potential bad guy. Not that way at all in the private sector. 50 shades of gray is an understatement. Again took me a while to adapt. Working on some contract proposals with several team partners helped.

Response by SFC Harry (Billy) Tison made Mar 5 at 2018 2:04 PM

SFC Harry (Billy) Tison — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 14:04:54 -0500

Not having my buddies around as much as I had to bounce ideas or pal around

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 5 at 2018 2:26 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 14:26:25 -0500

Dealing with PTSD. It is quite humbling. However I am getting great support from the VA.

Response by CW2 Ernest Krutzsch made Mar 5 at 2018 3:46 PM

CW2 Ernest Krutzsch — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 15:46:33 -0500

I miss the people and the camaraderie. I still work for DoD, but as a contractor am treated differently.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 3:55 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 15:55:47 -0500

Hardest part was finding my first post military job. I decided to try Phoenix - 6th largest city and growing and just up the road from Fort Huachuca. Two months went by before I landed a position in Plano, TX. I couldn't even get an interview in Phoenix. I went through two mini bouts of depression trying to figure out what I was doing wrong. It hit me that I had no network in Phoenix. I needed to find the "doorman" to get my resume inside a business and looked at before I would get an interview. I think the stats were that 6% or less of people hired had no network within the company. Luckily I was one of the 6% with Super Systems Inc, but it really wasn't a great fit for me. Yorktown Systems Group is a much better fit but forced me to do a second relocation at my expense.

I heard that most veterans don't stay with their first post-military job long. Unfortunately I fit that category.

If I could return to my transition with advice, I would work on expanding my LinkedIn network to recruiters earlier than I did. I was mid-transition when I figured out I needed to find a "doorman."

Response by SPC David Willis made Mar 5 at 2018 4:19 PM

SPC David Willis — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 16:19:43 -0500

Well I just separated, not retired but for me it was the guys I went through two deployments with. Love those dudes like brothers and would give anything to get another tour under my belt with them.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Mar 5 at 2018 4:19 PM

SFC Stephen King — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 16:19:43 -0500

Finding a way to continue to contribute to others serving. Once a Soldier always a Soldier....

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Mar 5 at 2018 4:33 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 16:33:59 -0500

- the unknown
- finding meaningful/good employment
- dealing with a notable Hooah deficiency
- coping with “is this all there is?”
- trying to build a social network and friendships from dust.
- I miss the people.

Response by MSgt Steve Sweeney made Mar 5 at 2018 4:43 PM

MSgt Steve Sweeney — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 16:43:59 -0500

Picking out clothes for work and deciding what I would wear on a day to day basis.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 5:27 PM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 17:27:23 -0500

Waking up every morning, knowing that the best part of my life has passed by. The fear of not making a difference everyday. Speaking but not being heard.

There are a few.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Mar 5 at 2018 7:14 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 19:14:06 -0500

Gets less as time goes on, but the sense of purpose and comradery.

Response by 1SG Clifford Barnes made Mar 5 at 2018 9:38 PM

1SG Clifford Barnes — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 21:38:22 -0500

The comaradire setting a good example for my soldiers and earning and giving respect they earned

Response by CW3 Jeff Held made Mar 5 at 2018 9:44 PM

CW3 Jeff Held — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 21:44:36 -0500

God I miss it, the people, and doing something really important.

Response by SSG(P) Dan Keene made Mar 5 at 2018 10:45 PM

SSG(P) Dan Keene — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 22:45:18 -0500

Being cheated out of mine was the worst part.

Response by Maj John Bell made Mar 5 at 2018 11:12 PM

Maj John Bell — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 23:12:24 -0500

Understanding the mind of civilians.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 11:21 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 23:21:01 -0500

The fact that it hasn't happened yet

Response by SFC Don Vance made Mar 6 at 2018 12:26 AM

SFC Don Vance — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 00:26:58 -0500

Learning how to live and deal with civilians. Especially Banker Hours.

Response by CH (CPT)(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2018 5:25 AM

CH (CPT)(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 05:25:12 -0500

Still being years away from it....

Response by CPL Dave Hoover made Mar 6 at 2018 10:37 AM

CPL Dave Hoover — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 10:37:47 -0500

Returning (still working on it) to civilianship. (New word there.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 6 at 2018 10:53 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 10:53:48 -0500

Miss the worthless SOB troops of mine who I would die for.

Response by 1SG Dave Carello made Mar 6 at 2018 11:01 AM

1SG Dave Carello — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 11:01:30 -0500

Since I served more than 25 years active Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve. I was an Infantryman, a Drill Sergeant, a NCOES instructor and so, I stood on the Drill Floor for change of responsibility on my retirement as 1SG. As addressed my Infantry Company for the last time with my wife and friends standing in attendance I looked at my Soldiers and remembered all the years I had experienced life as a Soldier Here in the U.S. and overseas in Combat, the good and the bad, the cold, the heat, the wet driving rains in the field. I left with mixed feelings, but my wife, my supporter my friend reminded me of all I had accomplished over the years and how proud she was that I had done my job. From that point on it was OK. I involved myself in Veterans Service Organizations (American Legion) in order to continue to work for all veterans. Since I was also a retired Police Officer, I got a job working as an Armed Security Officer at the Federal Buildings or Social Security Offices in my State. Just be proud of what you all did. And, remember your wife and family members who stayed behind to take care of business. There are no Medals for them

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Mar 6 at 2018 3:46 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 15:46:34 -0500

There is a reoccurring theme with what everyone misses about being in, but does anyone miss these:

* 0200 phone call from CQ/Staff Duty that joe messed up?
* 0200 phone call from CQ/Staff Duty that joes spouse messed up?
* 0200 phone call from anyone that tells you (for MP's specifically) that ONE round is missing from shift change? Yes it's happened
* 0200 Phone call from Staff Duty that he found the CQ sleeping and no runner at all
* 0200 phone call from CSM. No valid reason, could've waited until 0900 Monday, but he's pissed just for the sake of being pissed.
* Officers who are wizards at Powerpoint trying to outdo the other at staff meetings
* Briefers who don't know how to STFU, so the meeting could be done and over with
* The looks on your troops face when you show up on a holiday and tell them to go home. I got this shift for you.
* Your facial expression when you are so damn impressed on the level of f*ckery that the joe in front of you did on last Friday, but your face hasn't changed since you were told Saturday.
* Division runs where by the time your unit begins the run itself, the CG has been done and gone for over 30 minutes and you have to deal with the accordion effect with your sister units
* -Post clean up
* Telling your SNCO that you have no bodies to spare so your joes won't have to pull BS details. Yet you know good and damn well over half your PLT isn't doing a damn thing.
* Smartphones and Social Media in the ranks
* The liner on the PT shorts
* You're so long in the tooth that you actually had the nerve to call "Counter Column" on the correct foot, yet the entire formation looks at you like you're the stupidest mofo in the history of mankind as they stumble through it. For added flavor add "Left or Right Step" and actually call "Halt" at the correct time.....it never happens.

Response by LTC Thomas Tennant made Mar 6 at 2018 4:07 PM

LTC Thomas Tennant — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 16:07:22 -0500

Letting go and taking it easy. Most of us old soldiers take time to acclimate to the civilian ways and culture.

Response by SMSgt Todd Grebel made Mar 7 at 2018 9:58 AM

SMSgt Todd Grebel — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 09:58:16 -0500

Adjusting to the civilian workforce. My first job as a contractor was teaching A-school classes to the Navy, but worked with active duty, retirees, and vets. So that was easy. Next job was all civilian, and never wanted to throat punch so many individuals. I took a while to come to the realization that the issue was mine, and not theirs. I was the one that needed to adapt from my old world to their new world if I was going to make it work, and make myself a happier person.

Response by SPC Jerry Jones made Mar 7 at 2018 11:12 AM

SPC Jerry Jones — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 11:12:04 -0500

I didn't retire, just ended my enlistment, but the hardest thing was finding jobs and also dealing with co-workers (civilians) who had no drive or desire to get the job done. I excelled at every job I took on, but still found no satisfaction in them because the team effort, like in the military, didn't exist, and I felt like I was the only employee who was devoted to the job.
I ended up working many jobs, over and over, and never found anything that felt right. Now I am working the family farm, and feel right at home there, because it is just me running it, and it drives me to reach every goal because all of it is on me and I can't let it fail. Farming is a lot like military life...getting up early, working hard, being self-reliant and every day has a new challenge. Plus, I don't have to work with lazy civilians to get the job done.

Response by MSgt Jack Weeks made Mar 8 at 2018 3:00 PM

MSgt Jack Weeks — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 15:00:55 -0500

I found it difficult to leave quickly enough. I hated being a SNCO since it meant giving up the job I had enjoyed for 17 years in favor of exactly the sort of work I despised but a combination of misplaced ambition and mild greed compelled me to earn that rank anyway. As a result, the final few years of my career were a dismal trudge from one hateful day to the next (minus a very rewarding deployment to Afghanistan). On the plus side, this means that I have not missed military life once since the day I retired.

Response by MSgt Dale Johnson made Mar 10 at 2018 8:52 AM

MSgt Dale Johnson — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 08:52:36 -0500

I joined the USAF at 17, odd to say it but I have been retired (24 Years) longer than on active duty (23 Years 6 months). I still miss the military, the camaraderie, the brotherhood. Pitch in and get the job done with better results. If I have what you need just let me know. If you are deployed my family will help your (any) family because your (anyone else's) family did when I was deployed. Throw a Pizza party to move one family out of base facilities, throw another one two days later to move another family in, celebrate getting done, and say hello to a new brother or sister.

After 20 years with a school district I have retired from there. Do not miss them hardly at all, still miss my military family.

Most neighbors where I live hardly know anyone else's name, let alone come out to help unless there is something in it for them. I try to show them the error of their ways but its like trying to run with 20lb leg weights, damn near impossible, fortunately a few have come around.

Yes there are military folks that are the same way as civilians and vice versa, and oddly in about the same ratio.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Mar 10 at 2018 11:29 AM

1SG James Kelly — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 11:29:41 -0500

Putting up with God damn civilians.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2018 12:57 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 24 Mar 2018 12:57:35 -0400

I got out the first time in the late 90s and after about six months I joined the reserves because I missed it. I eventually returned to active duty but now I'm three years from retirement and I know I'll face the same challenges I did 20 years ago. Take it one day at a time, don't isolate yourself, and build a network of friends/former military.

Response by SFC Charles Diers made Apr 1 at 2018 6:48 PM

SFC Charles Diers — Sun, 01 Apr 2018 18:48:15 -0400

Using civilian terms and language again. Adjusting to new styles of leadership and management. Still working on it.

Response by 1SG Ken Bedwell made Apr 5 at 2018 6:38 PM

1SG Ken Bedwell — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 18:38:59 -0400

Really it was the feeling the Army truly doesn't want us (retirees) around. I recall going to buy green socks. I was told by the cashier that retirees are not allowed to buy green socks, or any other uniform piece for that matter. I left the socks on the counter and walked out. I purchased a pack from the first surplus store I found. My wife and I were also informed we were not eligible to obtain medical care on post. The Army talks a good game about honoring retirees, the reality is otherwise from my experience. I can,t even buy a damn pair of green socks.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2018 11:46 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 11:46:32 -0400

Not donkey punching stupid people....

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 9 at 2018 10:46 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 22:46:56 -0400

The hardest part is the fact that I received nothing...not even a good bye from my unit.

Response by MSG Lance Kelly made Apr 10 at 2018 1:47 AM

MSG Lance Kelly — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 01:47:19 -0400

Maintaining my "military bearing". Civilian life is not structured like the military so there are many people who act in ways that are not military, in my opinion, and it ruffles my feathers. My wife doesn't always like my language and thinks I need counseling.

Response by SPC Chris Beebe made Apr 10 at 2018 4:13 AM

SPC Chris Beebe — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 04:13:04 -0400

Not sure if it applies as I ets'd after 1 term, but I'd say the sense of purpose; it's incredibly hard to find it in the civvy world.

Response by SFC Kervin Stewart made Apr 11 at 2018 10:21 AM

SFC Kervin Stewart — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 10:21:01 -0400

For me, the transition wasn’t too bad. I was a recruiter in Chicago, so I had some idea of how it would be, since I wasn’t around the Army. With that being said, in 1987 my SSG who was about to retire said to me”PV2 Stewart, the Army has changed too much for me and it’s time for me to go”. At the time I had no idea what he was talking about, but in 2005 I knew exactly what he meant. I miss some things as anyone would, but they are a lot more things I don’t. I love what I do, but will always be grateful for the good and not so good experiences I had in The Worlds Greatest Army.

Response by SFC James Beasley made Apr 14 at 2018 9:55 AM

SFC James Beasley — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 09:55:09 -0400

After my retirement eleven years ago I decided to become a teacher. The job can be challenging at times, but when you realize you have the ability to make a positive difference in the life of a student then the work is well worth the effort. I still get up early in the morning, and each day has a purpose.

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Apr 14 at 2018 12:47 PM

LTC Hillary Luton — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 12:47:14 -0400

There are some aspects of the military I miss, but in the end, I'm pretty happy right now. I retired over 3 years ago and the longer I'm away from it, the more relaxed I am. On another note, I do miss working with the Soldiers. That is probably the thing I miss most. I have been working outside of the military for the last 2 years and I enjoy the freedom my job gives me. My husband would love for me to go back to work as an Army Civilian, but I'm not sure if that is what I really want. At the same time, if the opportunity presented itself, I would certainly consider it before saying yes or no.

Response by SSG Kenny Gomillion made Apr 15 at 2018 10:29 PM

SSG Kenny Gomillion — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 22:29:59 -0400

Well having retirement forced on me when I didn't really want my career over, it would've been nice to at least receive a flag! To much to ask for apparently, I only sacrificed my health and most my life.

Response by SGT Leroy Brown made Apr 19 at 2018 8:20 PM

SGT Leroy Brown — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 20:20:10 -0400

Knowing you can give more but, Uncle Sam says no.

Response by CPT O. Lee James, III made Apr 19 at 2018 11:47 PM

CPT O. Lee James, III — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 23:47:26 -0400

Hardest for me was adjusting to the change of mission. I spent 34 years leading and training soldiers and then had to reenter the civilian workforce. It took about a year, but I came to understand that my mission was still the same; defense. The mission scope had changed from defending the nation to defending myself and my family.

Response by LTC Jonathan Reinebold made Apr 23 at 2018 8:05 AM

LTC Jonathan Reinebold — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 08:05:44 -0400

Been here a few years time to move. Been retired 11 years moved 4 times and looking for the next place.

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made Apr 27 at 2018 1:50 PM

CWO2 James Mathews — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 13:50:29 -0400

I guess the hardest thing for me was trying to find out where I fit in. The feeling of making some kind of difference was totally gone. After a long search for a position of some kind it finally came to me that if I wanted a position in which I would make a difference, I would have to educate myself further. With my wife's help, experience and urging, I undertook a college entrance exam, and to my surprise was accepted immediately without any further educational requirements. With that start, I completed my Bachelor's Degree, and was offered a chance at a Master's. I completed the Master's (With Distinction) and within a week was hired into a task where I was sure that I would make a difference!. It turned out that the task was fairly easy, compared to what had been expected of me as a new Third Class Petty Officer, but I worked hard at it, and was soon to take on more difficult and important tasks. Finally, I was asked to move to to a higher position in a company that specialized in the construction of submarines, ships that I had served in during my military experience. This task grew into a position where I was essentially a liaison between the construction company and Navsea, for the Trident shipbuilding corrections area. This carried on on until my second retirement from the company. The lesson learned here was that relating to my Naval Experience, the duty requirements of a Civilian job, although requiring more formal education, were much less demanding either technically or authoritativally than my military rating tasks encountered either on a submarine or a sub tender (mother ship), both of which I served on.

Response by CW4 Abdulaziz Bulling made May 2 at 2018 1:00 PM

CW4 Abdulaziz Bulling — Wed, 02 May 2018 13:00:34 -0400

The hardest part was, as with any event that you want to be successful is planning. With retirement you want to have a job lined up, or a skill set in such high demand that you can transition relatively quickly. If the first job you find is not fulfilling, you can look around again. I went into IT and took classes to get certified with the latest server and workstation software before I left the service. I had to pay for it myself, but my boss allowed me to take leave on weekdays for the training. I found the work challenging and the IT community job hop to get pay raises, so it was similar to the couple of year assignments we used to get. What I came to miss was the comradery that others mentioned. By the way, it isn't retirement, it is unpaid overtime. Best of luck from a old fart.

Response by LCDR Doug Nordman made May 6 at 2018 12:18 PM

LCDR Doug Nordman — Sun, 06 May 2018 12:18:30 -0400

Personally, the hardest part was getting to military retirement. In retrospect, I should not have gutted it out to 20.

I've been retired for nearly 16 years, and life is very good. When I started, I worked through all the typical issues during the first few months. Finances have been fine (we reached financial independence through a high savings rate), and I haven't started a bridge career. I keep the camaraderie alive through social media and meetups. My VA disability rating is manageable. I have no trouble figuring out what I'll do all day. Traveling the world (without midwatches or weekend duty) is awesome.

However I stuck with active duty for 20 years instead of going to the Reserves at the 10-year point. We'd started our family then, and it quickly realigned our priorities. The submarine force was also no longer challenging or fulfilling, and climbing its career ladder led to a narrowing pyramid of sucky options. Our quality of life was abysmal.

Our high savings rate has given us more money than we need, and an active-duty pension has not been necessary. If I had moved to the Reserves (perhaps along with a military contractor job or a bridge career) we would have reached the same results in about the same amount of time-- with a much higher quality of life.

Here's more perspective on those issues:
https://the-military-guide.com/dont-gut-20-leave-active-duty-reserves-national-guard/

dont-gut-20-leave-active-duty-reserves-national-guard

Response by Col Gladys Young made May 6 at 2018 10:14 PM

Col Gladys Young — Sun, 06 May 2018 22:14:35 -0400

It was definitely the people I missed. I also felt a little lost without the sense of mission in my life that the AF gave me. I have had a productive and busy life since then, but when I hear the Huey blades I still want to go on SAR.

Response by CPO Deborah Simmons made May 9 at 2018 2:39 PM

CPO Deborah Simmons — Wed, 09 May 2018 14:39:15 -0400

The camaraderie and travel.

Response by SMSgt Ruth Steele Vogel made May 11 at 2018 11:10 PM

SMSgt Ruth Steele Vogel — Fri, 11 May 2018 23:10:04 -0400

Retiring great times! But getting back into civ work ahhhhhhhhhh!!!
Went to work for USMCorps DOD.
It took me a long time to quit saying “the AF does it like this!” But it was a great experience and I was proud to be apart of them!

Response by Maj Earl Tilford made May 13 at 2018 8:52 AM

Maj Earl Tilford — Sun, 13 May 2018 08:52:49 -0400

My 21 years as an Air Force intelligence officer and the 11 years I spent as a DoD civilian director of research for the Army's Strategic Studies Institute made for a satisfying military career. I had already earned a master's degree in history when I entered the Air Force. Serving a year as an intelligence officer in Southeast Asia made me ask, "How the hell did we get involved here? Why are we fighting the war the way we are? And why are we losing this war?" I returned home to spend the next ten years working on those questions and also obtaining a PhD in history. This enabled me to llive a fulfilling and interesting life. In retirement I spent eight years teaching at a small, liberal arts college. I traveled to Israel to study terrorism and counter-terrorism. All this flowed from my military experiences. I give a lot of credit to being an intelligence officer. I was taught to assume the worst, ask the difficult questions, assess information objectively, and present what I learned in a coherent way. That made researching and writing a doctoral dissertation easy. I also published four books during my lifetime: three on the air war in Vietnam and one a history of the University of Alabama during the 1960s. The military also taught me to be responsible: be on time, do what you said you would do, do it right the first time. Also, it taught me that "something not worth doing is worth not doing right." Concomitantly, someting worh doing is worth doing right. Incidentally, "Management by Objectives" like "Outcomes based Education" was not worth doing.

Response by SSG Guy Gould made May 14 at 2018 8:39 PM

SSG Guy Gould — Mon, 14 May 2018 20:39:57 -0400

Being disabled. On active duty, you overlooked disability and moved on with the mission as if you were FMC without missing a beat. As a civilian, you can’t get hired for a decent job. I have moved on. I have started a few businesses foe veterans as well as a couple veteran owned, veteran operated nonprofits. It doesn’t pay anything. But, it helps other veterans. I hope that someday I can find something.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made May 14 at 2018 10:58 PM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Mon, 14 May 2018 22:58:19 -0400

Not being able to live and work with my Marines

Response by SCPO Wayne Clark made May 19 at 2018 6:44 PM

SCPO Wayne Clark — Sat, 19 May 2018 18:44:58 -0400

I followed as much of the Transition Assistance Program advice as I could. I sent out at least 100 resumes, applied to tons of companies online, and got a giant, whopping goose egg for responses. I found work, but that was pretty disappointing and more than a bit scary. Things have gotten better, but 52, I just got my first job from an online job posting.

Response by LTC Andrew Addison made May 19 at 2018 10:27 PM

LTC Andrew Addison — Sat, 19 May 2018 22:27:58 -0400

One of the best kept secrets for some military retirees is to become a JROTC Instructor for any of the branches. If your record is clear, you are within 3 years since retiring(waiverable?), can pass the 3 background checks and like working in an environment that you feel like you are giving back to the community and your country then perhaps consider this field. Contact me if you have any questions. Keep in mind I am not a recruiter and for that matter I don't know if the folks that run these programs even recruit...

Response by 1SG Cj Grisham made May 20 at 2018 11:40 PM

1SG Cj Grisham — Sun, 20 May 2018 23:40:26 -0400

For me it was going back to school after 23 years.

Response by MSgt Brian Williams made May 31 at 2018 4:19 PM

MSgt Brian Williams — Thu, 31 May 2018 16:19:10 -0400

Retiring was really the easy part. Getting rid of the urge to travel/move was the hardest. My family and I PCS'd every 3 to 4 years from stateside to overseas and repeated often. I retired to a civilian position in 3 letter agency in the DC area but still had the urge to travel and move. Thank goodness I had a job where I went TDY overseas a lot and it satisfied that itch.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2018 11:27 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 May 2018 23:27:26 -0400

I get ask that a lot. I was told that I would come back as a contractor begging to get back doing what I left. I have a very fulfilling life between going to see my grandkids getting stuff done at home and for other people. I love being a hobby metal fabricator and part time woodcrafter. most of all I love having time to do more of Gods work.

Response by MAJ Vic Artiga made Jun 2 at 2018 9:34 PM

MAJ Vic Artiga — Sat, 02 Jun 2018 21:34:58 -0400

Retirement is G-R-E-A-T!!!! I agree with CSM Stafford. Finding fulfilling work is the difficult part. USA Jobs is worthless! I don't miss the Army one bit! I met way, way, waaaaaaaaay too many toxic leaders and commanders who supported them because they attained results for their OERs. Too many "leaders" feel they need to lead with fear and intimidation. There are rare times when I was back in the saddle, but those feelings pass quickly.

Response by Cheryl Rouland made Jun 3 at 2018 4:49 AM

Cheryl Rouland — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 04:49:42 -0400

It is difficult to find a job with purpose in the private sector. But there are plenty of such opportunities in the public sector and working for various non-profit, service organizations.

To me the biggest challenge our uniform men and women have is writing a resume that is effective in the private sector. So many times, the military jargon is used which means absolutely nothing to folks who have not had the pleasure of working with our men and women in uniform. Rewrite your resume emphasizing your leadership skills and see how quickly you are picked up.

Response by SGT Dave Matteson made Jan 19 at 2019 8:05 PM

SGT Dave Matteson — Sat, 19 Jan 2019 20:05:21 -0500

Leaving the family.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2019 9:23 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 21:23:11 -0400

Get a civilian DOD job, Teach JROTC or work at a military school.

Response by SMSgt Willie Edney made May 11 at 2019 4:55 PM

SMSgt Willie Edney — Sat, 11 May 2019 16:55:16 -0400

OPS TEMPO OF CIVILIAN LIFE STYLE

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2020 2:17 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 14:17:53 -0400

Being stuck at home and too old (70 but very healthy) to be recalled to help with pandemic.

Response by SFC Terry Wilcox made Mar 28 at 2020 3:52 PM

SFC Terry Wilcox — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 15:52:23 -0400

Retirement? Who gets to retire? Oh you mean to end one's military duties. Yeah, I did that, then went to work - for another 25 years - then RE-Retired

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 28 at 2020 5:31 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 17:31:50 -0400

Being treated like shit at the Ft Riley and Ft Campbell WTUs. It was a horrible end to my 20 year career. I don't know why WTUs have a high concentration of assholes and bitches at some posts. I don't get it.

Response by PVT Edward Roselle made Mar 28 at 2020 9:55 PM

PVT Edward Roselle — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 21:55:14 -0400

All the beds are too damned soft!! And waking up before the grand kids, is getting weird. And then there is the cleaning... daughter usually just gets out of the way. (LOL)

Honestly though, it's weird... I feel almost useless at times, I try to help on some things, buuuut, no one wants to let me help. Moved in with the daughter and her husband (great boy) to help watch after the children while they work. Now with this lock down, it's getting interesting. Nothing really to do. (LOL)

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Mar 28 at 2020 9:58 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 21:58:56 -0400

Job hunting. Also figuring out what to do that was worthwhile

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Mar 29 at 2020 7:33 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 07:33:40 -0400

Making sure all my paperwork for retirement was in order and was being processed. Once I got my orders, everything else was easy, until I had to find a job. But I was very lucky in that regard. I currently work for Military Sealift Command, been doing so for 10 years now.

Response by SGT Robert Pryor made Mar 29 at 2020 9:14 AM

SGT Robert Pryor — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 09:14:27 -0400

The hardest part for me, Georgeann Carter, is watching the young people going off to war, feeling it should be me putting my life on the line for them, not the other way around.

Response by Maj Scott Kiger, M.A.S. made Mar 29 at 2020 2:35 PM

Maj Scott Kiger, M.A.S. — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 14:35:45 -0400

Leaving behind all the friends! Well that's what I thought in the beginning, then it became the shared experiences and feelings like you really make a difference which really doesn't show up often in civilian life. Then its the friends again.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 28 at 2020 2:19 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 02:19:28 -0400

Miss the cameraderie and serving. I work with Civil Air Patrol and Coast Guard auxiliary and California Cadet Corps; especially since I also like working with youth. However during this time of covid-19 of those activities are in Stand Down except for virtual meetings. Civil Air Patrol has done a limited support with food banks which I've done a couple of times. But most of their activities have been suspended. this is a time which I wish I was on active or reserve duty with the military. I looking in to signing up with the CA State Guard. I've considered it before but I am very impressed with the California Military Department.They have outstanding leadership. I'm already working with the state Military with the California Cadet Corps, but this gives me more opportunity to work with them on supporting my community and State.