Would a service be useful that links transitioning SMs with the VBA and VHA (addressing reverse cultural shock and interpersonal challenges)?

SGT Jennifer Rixe — Sun, 25 Nov 2018 23:04:55 -0500

Would it be useful for service members who are transitioning to the civilian world to have access to a service that links with the VBA and VHA to address reverse cultural shock and the interpersonal challenges that veterans face (i.e., loss of identity, grief, loss of purpose, etc.) post transition?

Tell me what you think!?

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2018 11:10 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 Nov 2018 23:10:28 -0500

Depends. Is it going to mandatory or voluntary? Many times after deployments they force reservists to attend the transition assistance classes. That crap should be voluntary too. When I get home from deployment I just want to get back to my normal life not spend more time sitting there at the base for half the salary. My civilian company makes up my pay while I am deployed not while sitting at the base for useless classes.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Nov 25 at 2018 11:24 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Sun, 25 Nov 2018 23:24:08 -0500

The plain fact of the matter is this "STUFF" needs to be mandated...to a point. Yea, I know the drill, I'm sick of standing in line and taking orders, yada yada yada. When I was in there was no such thing as transition assistance. It was sign here that you acknowledge we told you this but weren't told jack schitt. We had our discharge physicals pencil whipped and as far as VA benefits or health benefits, BUPKUS! We had to find out about that on our own. No two people handle separation the same way. The more information that can be made available the better for all in the long run.

As to MSgt Heather D comment on reservists. It needs to be mandated in my opinion. That is one group that is wearing 80 lbs of gear one day and the next is back at their civilian job. You must be advised of the pitfalls of going in and out repeatedly.

Better that you know and learn NOW than try to get benefits 40 years after the fact like those of us who served in Vietnam.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2018 1:39 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Nov 2018 01:39:29 -0500

Okay, so the cultural challenges are one thing, but I think a lot of the apprehension surrounding leaving ACTIVE service as opposed to a reservist returning to a civilian employer is that many are underprepared or feel underprepared. Unfortunately, people generally neglect their future selves, as evidenced by the poor rate of saving amongst American youth. If one is well prepared and has a well thought out transition plan and has a vision for its execution, it seems like the cultural idiosyncrasies could be managed by counselors with a VBA or though a drink with some friendly faces at a Legion or VFW post by someone who has already navigated those waters. Maslow comes to mind when thinking about this issue. Thoughts?

Response by SrA John Monette made Nov 26 at 2018 3:48 PM

SrA John Monette — Mon, 26 Nov 2018 15:48:47 -0500

it would be extremely valuable. when I got discharged in 1992, it was like kicking the baby bird out of the nest. sink or swim. having knowledge of VBA and VHA resources could certainly have improved my odds.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Nov 26 at 2018 11:40 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Mon, 26 Nov 2018 23:40:04 -0500

SGT Jennifer Rixe I am not discounting the impacts of any of those challenges, would really need a straw-man of the programs to see where they belong.