Transitioning

Something To Think About (STTA)

Below is a compilation of inputs from veterans gathered over the years.  It is not an end-all nor does it provide every answer, but it is something to think about (STTA).  With some slight spelling or other modifications, quotes weren’t changed. 

Transitioning:

·         It's not over, only a different direction in your life.  There is a good life after the military, so prepare for it.  The aspect of Time will change for you, it’s OK!

·         Watch out for the dang TV, while a good distraction, it can distract from life.  Limit yourself daily.  Also limit time on the Web, unless learning, researching, and job hunting.

·         There is a rewarding life for you after the military. Have a plan no matter what and if you are mad/angry when leaving the military; in about three days after you retire or separate (one often retires on a Friday) when Monday comes around everything that you are mad about doesn't matter anymore.  Let it go.

·         You will likely gain weight.  Keep on top of it.  Buy a scale & a big mirror to keep an eye on yourself.  Use them both daily/weekly.  Can't keep eating the carbs (pizza, bread, rolls, etc.) as you used to.

·         Attend the transition brief/classes and medical processes that your service offers, very valuable. Be sure to network.

·         Get a copy of your medical records before you get out & make a digital copy of everything.

·         Get your paper records/files (Military Personnel File (MPF), jump, flight, etc.) & make a digital copy of everything.  Don't wait till the last week.

·         Make sure you get a final dental exam either by the military or get an unbiased one from a civilian dentist.  Valuable for later.

·         Keep only one set of all your military uniforms (svc dress, mess, fatigues, flight suit, helmet, boots).  Get rid of all the rest of that hoarder stuff, and sell or donate everything else (strip the names and rank).  Purge, down-size.

·         If you are getting out early think about joining the Reserves or National Guard.  You'll be 60 before you know it. 

·         Talk to former vets about what they would have done different, if at all.

·  View, and be aware of the following registries: 

· Gulf War Registry, https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/gulfwar/benefits/registry-exam.asp   

·  Burn-Pit Registry  https://veteran.mobilehealth.va.gov/AHBurnPitRegistry/#page/home

·         Million-Vets Program.  https://www.research.va.gov/mvp/

·  Check out https://VA.GOV  one stop shop

Social and Other Support

o   Depression, likely you will have to deal with it at some level in your new life, It's real, be aware. Aging, evolving health issues (i.e. back pain, joint pain, foot pain, losing hair, cancer, weight gain, etc), family stresses, relationships, job rejections, a changing sense of purpose will be factors.  https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ForVeterans.aspx

o   Social media helps/works, use it, BUT BE AWARE OF ITS LIMITATIONS, THERE ARE DOWNSIDES. Limit your time and be aware of the bull crap.

o   Stay away from negative people/relationships.  They are bad luck & will suck the life (positive outlook) out of you.  Run!  Hang out w/doers & people that make shit happen >> transformational leaders/managers, not transactional.

o   Stop dipping, chewing, smoking, & watch the drinking.

Other

§  Do not file a VA disability (compensation & pension) claim WITHOUT going through/utilizing a veteran service organization (VSO) like the DAV, PVA etc.  Note: Would be like representing yourself in a civil-court trial w/out an attorney.  You just don't do it. Note: Yes, it is feasible.

§  Make sure you, your spouse, partner, and kids all have a copy of your DD-214(s).  Paper & digital.

§  Own some nice clothes for doing an interview or meet-n-greet.  (i.e. business suit, tie, sport coat, slacks, nice shirt or blouse).  Get a haircut/hair-do, get groomed.  Doesn't have to be a high n-tight, or go out to the gala just groomed & well dressed.  Shoes matter, clean, and in good repair. Appearance still & always will matter.

§  Look into your local state property tax exemption, for veterans and disabled veterans

§  Create an account in USA Jobs today & work up a resume (look at the resume builder at thatothersmayrise.org) & upload the supporting documents you will need for applying for jobs you are interested in.

Now get out there and prepare.

There were many who have contributed to these inputs, and they are left basically unchanged as provided. A special thanks to the research done by Bruce Hickson, CMSgt (ret) and John Doyle, CMsgt / Sgt Maj (ret)