How to Integrate Back into Civilian Life After Military Duty
Returning to civilian life after military service can be like setting foot on another planet. Military separation anxiety is common. Securing a job or returning to a civilian job can be one of the most frustrating aspects to transitioning back to civilian life. While a military transition can indeed be challenging, if you take certain steps, you should not have trouble securing civilian employment in the wake of your military transition.
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Instructions
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Be aware of the benefits you are entitled to. From home loan guarantees as high as $359,650 to free burial in a military cemetery, veterans are eligible to receive a wealth of benefits. After your military separation, take time to figure out how you can best put these benefits to use. Furthermore, realize that a larger community of veterans is available to assist you, especially through internet forums listed in the Resources section, below.
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Know your rights. Under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, you should be entitled to reclaim the position of civilian employment you held prior to your enlistment. You should certainly not be denied benefits & promotions on the basis of your membership in the military. (If this happens, you may need to file a Form OSC-14 to the U.S. Office of Special Counsel.)
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Expect things to have changed. One of the most common setbacks experienced during a military transition is returning home to find that you can't turn back the hands of time. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that all of your old high school friends will be waiting for you or that no illnesses will have befallen those in your community. Accept that change is natural and that you will be able to readjust to that change over time.
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Consider getting an education. Taking time to get a degree while serving military service is often not feasible. However, after you are released from service, you may have a perfect opportunity to attend an accredited university with the help of the Montgomery GI Bill. Take advantage of this opportunity, and use it to help you to advance in the civilian sector.
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Work to excel in a new field of work. A military career demands that you focus on your future rather than your past if you want to move forward. People who are around you will enjoy seeing you put your abilities to work. Use the skills and experience you have gained in the military to place yourself into a new career, if you so desire.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're wondering about where to go after military service, consider not giving up what you've already established. If you have a spouse, establishing long-term residence where you've already been deployed may be a nice option to promote a healthy life together.
Don't burn your bridges. You may want to reenlist later, and the contacts that you've already established could be valuable to you in the future.
