It’s no secret that the transition from military life to civilian life can be dramatic. We want to know what your experience was like.
It’s no secret that the transition from military life to civilian life can be dramatic. We want to know what your experience was like.
I missed the the closes of fellow airman. We all felt like family. Once I became a civilian again it was very difficult to get same family atmosphere with my neighbors.
the guilt of returning haunted me…sadly many did not return
I retired in 1997 after serving 20 years in the Navy, I had no problem with the civilian life change. The only thing I could not get used to was being home all the time getting use to my Marriage again. I started working with the San Diego School District plus a part time job with a Janitorial Company just to I wanted to be away from my wife. After 4 years from retirement she wanted a divorce because she has been wife her boyfriend for a long time. So after we divorced my life has been heaven, I make a lot more money, meet and have a new wife that makes me happy, I retired from my second job after working with them for 21 1/2 years so what more can I ask for. The Navy made me the Man I am today, Thank you.
I’m sure it was very difficult for many as it was for myself coming back into the civilian world that seem to have no compassion for the Veteran reentering what then seem to be a new environment. It’s two different worlds where in the military there is a since of brotherhood, in the civilian world, it’s like a maze to find one’s place. I departed the military during the beginning of the crack epidemic. It was a horrible time. I would have stayed in the Navy as long as I could if not for the injury I sustained during my time in. There need to be an exit strategy for the Vet that includes a though observation of what they are leaving vs what they are entering. It is imperative to prepare the Vet as the Vet could be a vital asset to the civilian community if groomed and prepared properly.
It was easy for me. The early 80’s, I regret getting out after 4yrs .
Retired in December 1980. Unemployment rate was off the chart as well as home interest rates. Delivered newspapers until hired on as temporary GS-3 in Federal Civil Service. Attended college at night and eventually got permanent position in FCS. Perseverance paid off and eventually got my 100% Disability and retired from FCS as well. Never give up!
When I retired from the Air Force in 1989 at Rome, NY, I found it somewhat difficult to transition to civilian life. The main problem was finding a job with adequate pay. I applied for a civil service position and I took the postal exams, four exams. I was unable to get a civil service as there very few vacancies at the time and my postal scores were high enough that I was told that I would be hired within 6 months. Eight months later I called the main postal office in Albany, NY and they informed me that applicants with disabilities were being hired first. I finally took a part-time job at Griffiss AFB, NY and a part-time job off base to supplement my military retirement check to help support my family. After several months of waiting I was hired for a part-time civil service position and a full time job off base at a warehouse in the receiving section. As we were still struggling to make ends meet, my wife and I decided to sell the house and move to Texas where life was cheaper. Right after we sold our property, I was offered a full time civil service position as well as a rural carrier postal position in Rome, NY. As we were in the process of moving, I had to decline both job offers. Finally, we moved to New Braunfels, Tx and immediately got hired with the Comal Independent School District in a supervisory position. It was about time that things started working in a positive manner for me/us.
I greatly enjoyed the 22 years I served in the Air Force. My military service afforded me the opportunity to visit many countries as well as to meet and make friends of different races. I served 2 tours in the far east for a total of 2 1/2 years and 3 tour to Europe for a total of 13 years.
Easy Peezy,
Went to work for the then Post Office, now called Postal Service.
Back then no I union to speak of.
For years it was worse than the military.
Sorry for the poorly written post. Cannot find a way to correct it.
Yeah there is no respect for us returning home from war, doesn’t matter what war you where in, time of service, branch of service, don’t matter. You get cursed out, called baby and woman killer, get spit on, garbage and dawg shit thrown on you. There’s no help for veterans, I tried to get disability for my eye sight, eyes were operated on while I was on active duty, several times, they wanted me to drop a UA, thinking I had a STD….. so disrespectful. There are veterans that have mental issues, homeless, jobless, can’t care for themselves and no one cares, NO ONE… damn shame, we serve to keep you safe and we get kicked in the ass for it. I’m a single parent and there was a time I could not make my mortgage payment….. I seemed help and was told when I got kicked out if my home, then come see us, we may can help you then. Food stamps to feed my daughter, denied, jobs….. still waiting on a response from a variety of employers, don’t get sick, VA hospitals are a joke, can’t get in, takes months to schedule anything, may as well go to the urgent care or ER department ….. I can go on and on, for now I’m dun. Thanks!
this is what wrong with peope they only care anout tjere self and whatvthey can take and donot care if they hurt othets to took care of
them selfish self they forgotvthecman that keptvthem savevandcstill do to this very day
Michael, everything you mention is relevant to many retirees. However, I retired (1987 with 30 yrs, – joined in 56] with a civilian mind and never missed the rigors of military, of which there were very many.
As I transition to civilian life, my biggest challenge has been adjusting my high expectations of work ethics to a lower expectation. I have to use more motivation than directive to get the team to complete mission. I have to think before I speak to convert my directive into a request.
Exactly, same here. I retired from the navy where expectations were high. Retired and worked for s government contract to watch Civil service employees doing the same job working crossword puzzels. They said they had 1 hour to clean a certain airplane part that took maybe between 5-10 minutes. The other 50 was sitting on their ass working crossword puzzles. As a contractor you better not let your project manager catch you sitting or you were out the door. I seen the same thing while in the navy. Watching mechs working in the non air-conditioned hangar while Civil Service sat around reading the news paper. That year the budget was getting delayed from signing so all the contractors were sent home
Hope that cleaning shop survived getting the job done because we weren’t there to pull up their slack. Then left there for the Rail Road. Its been a crazy 17 years now, butt loads of back stabbing having to watch behind you. Learned the term nobody out here is your friend, just co-workers. In the navy, they were my friends and family and would cover your back in a heart beat. Out here on the Rail Road they rather watch some screw up then stop them from screwing up. I guess in all the militaries we had to watch each.othets back for life or death. Signing off. Just reading post causing.me to vent.
Sorry should have proof read
Don’t be sorry. Was a good read. I worked a a state prison as a guard and it was the same. You had to watch your own back because no one else would.
1963-1966 active duty honorably discharged. Back in those days there were no programs for veterans leaving the service. You were on your own to secure a job, educational benefits and becoming part of the civilian society. It was not easy but having family members near helped a lot. Also back then the community did not hard the military as they did later during the Vietnam era.
1992 to 2004, honorable service in the US NAVY Seabees. The transition from military to civilian life is very difficult for many veterans due to the loss of marriage, and home, and finding a purpose in the civilian world. In many cases, corporations do not truly offer opportunities to veterans to move up the corporate ladder in leadership roles as they do for young college graduates. Many only honor veterans through verbal thanks but not by the action of allowing veterans to perform their best with the skills they have achieved through leadership and experience. Even thou many veterans who have served for years in the military were in charge of large operations that include the responsibilities of millions or billions of dollars of equipment, hundreds of personnel, and in some cases life or death situations. Many of the leadership skills obtained in military roles involve communication skills, logistics, supplies, transportation, and security which can benefit the corporate world. But are not utilized and in some cases, veterans are kept back from some upper management because they feel a threat to possibly be outperformed by the military veteran. There has also been a sort of stigmatism that veterans have PTSD or some sort of mental problem because of military service which is by far over-exaggerated. Most veterans do not want a handout, they just want the opportunity to serve and perform with excellence. My office was in charge of Seabee construction operations in Europe and Senegal Africa during wartime. I received a NAM from the Secretary of the Navy for the first crane lift procedures in the battalion and among other things. Today most corporations would never allow me a serious position in their company. Military certifications, training, and positions are not recognized in the civilian world. Due to this attitude in the civilian world veterans would be better served to have more support in starting their own businesses through training and receive priority in funding and business venture grants. Today, I am the owner of A4F TACTICAL. Ltd, We Are Military Veterans Serving The American People. God Bless all of my brothers and sister veterans CAN DO! A4FTactical.com
I agree wholeheartedly I worked with government agency USMS AND THEY UPPER management were the worst of all even the prior military were very bad they had no respect for themselves or others that agency is/was very corrupt.
All the people I knew had moved on and I kept trying to fit in younger and younger groups ,looking for a slot
I really understand, Retired in 2014 with my 23 years active duty 26 years reserves. I am still lost PTSD military sexual trauma and can not find a job even to this day. I am still traumatized so what do we do best? Deploy years! That’s what I am doing. I am still facing the loss of military can not anything I fit into. I am very lost out here.
I had really hard time keeping a job. People were scared I would go off n shoot up the office. Until I worked as night manager for Holiday Inn 11 pm to 7am. That made it easier to transform back to regular life.
Vietnam war. Honorable discharge in 1968. There was no help for veterans,just had to make it the best way you could. Not like today.
Amen brother!! I was a marine sarge..got shit thrown on me..that was my home coming..we need to have the backs of these young ones coming home!!!
I was the same way people spit on me and people threw rotten tomatoes atme and called me names this stl bothers me to
day and the vA is getting worse.
My situation is very similar..before being activated May 68..with the loss in income and prospect of being sent to the war…my national unit (29th brigade) were filling spots in Vietnam ..all we did was drink and gamble as death tolls rose..when were released my wife left me because of financial hardship…future relationship were bad too…I quit my job cause they couldn’t hold my old position..i was jumping jobs for four yrs..finally got an airline job and retired 20 years later at a modest retirement pay…nothing like I wud have got from my original job.
I did not have a problem. I was caught in a RIF. I received a stipend and decided to attend the University of Tampa on the GI bill. The University was very veteran oriented and had VA representative who helped me apply for and receive disability and disabled veteran benefits to help me complete college with a BA in Business. I worked part time in a bank and also tutored other vets.. I took the Civil service exam and then went to work in the government. What helped me a lot was a positive attitude and the strong support of my wife and family. I was in my mid thirties with a wife and two children at the time. I guess I was very fortunate but I did have a successful life and still have fairly good health at 84.
When I got out I returned to my home of record in California. Little did I know being a veteran was an automatic rejection. I couldn’t even get a part ime job at KFC. After about 6 months I was working as a temp at a hospital. The HR Director was retired Navy and knew what I was like being a Veteran in California. She made it a point to find me a position at the hospital. Six months later I was hired as a Deputy Sheriff. I learned from the HR directors example and almost always interview Veterans who apply. I prefer the quality of employees with a DD214 over a 4 year degree. I can teach skills I can’t teach work ethic.
Thomas i love your comment and that it very true statement military people like my self when i left the military in 1979 was so highly motivated my work ethic caused me to lose a job.By doing the right thing which was to be the best i could be sounds funny but you build such a great work ethic you want to be Great at anything you do .And that cannot Be taught .
Mr. Mayfield sir, oh how I can relate to your post but I know that I had it much better than those who were in country during the Vietnam and other wars! USMC 1973-1978. Last job in the Corps I supervised at age 21 1/2 what I used to say were about 100 people but as I got older I realized that I supervised about 100 Marines and there is a astronomical different! In civilian life I supervised on a part-time basis a few gas pumps (before self-serve) and looked after the gas station and went to college on the old GI bill. I was only a few years older than some of my college classmates and younger than other classmates but they could not relate to me nor could I relate to them. I later moved away from my home in PA to upstate NY where I worked a few different factory jobs. In the first factory job I worked just like I had and my fellow Marines had in the Corps and drove three different co-workers to work with me although they had their own cars. One day I decided that I had enough of this job and informed the manager near the beginning of the 12-hour shift that I was leaving and not coming back after the six hour lunch break. The manager respected my decision but asked me to meet with him before leaving to discuss all of the issues with this factory job which I happily agreed to do. The three co-workers waited for me then informed the manager that they were leaving and not coming back also. As it turned out if I were not at the factory the three of them would have to work which I later realized and the manager was tryiing to inform me. They were lifelong NY residents and had met the minimum requirements at the time to collect unemployment, so they thought, why work? In a different factory job where I was required to join a union I got in trouble with my foreman and the manager for working through breaks to try to get the work done. In the Corps the sooner we got the work done the sooner we could party! The foreman and manager met with me and informed me that I was making them and my co-workers look bad and that they would no longer tolerate it so I enrolled in college there and studied during my required breaks! Despite several issues as a result of my military service such as transitioning back to civilian life and lifelong medical problems I credit the military for giving a 17 year old high school drop out when I joined in December 1973 to being awarded a doctorate of education in organizational leadership in August 2019! Semper Fidelis!!!!!
Retired CPO, USN. 1979 to 1998. Retired under TERA (Temporary Early Retirement Program). While not under wartime circumstances, I saw 2 of my military friends die and an additional 8 civilians. This affected me a lot I. I was in boot camp 6 days after I turned 17. Reported onboard my first ship 12/25/79. Never served in wartime: however, did receive 2 Navy Commendations and 7 Navy Achievement Medals prior to retirement. Loved the Navy since home life was not a place for me. The military allowed me the freedom and respect I did not receive prior to enlisting. In charge of my own unit for 9.5 years we deployed everywhere. I thought I would make a smooth transition into civilian life. I was wrong. I worked for several fortune 500 companies who had cameras on everyone 24/7. I could not handle the micromanagement, nor the poor leadership. I am a father of six grown children, 5 of whom are currently in the military. Four of whom have done tours in Iraq or Afghanistan. All of whom I am very proud of. I have one son who is currently 100 disabled and retired after 19 years of service. My question is, why can the VA not treat non wartime veterans the same as wartime veterans if they have the need? They look at us and scoff. This is a Sham on our government. Your wartime Vets, I salute you and wish you the very best of luck, but we who are left behind should have recognition for the service we sacrificed for as well.
I served in the US ARMY for several years. I was a paratrooper stationed at FT. Bragg, NC
I worked for 95th Civil Affairs BDE HHQ (AIRBORNE) special operations unit.
I served in OIF/OEF as a combat RTO. I also had TS clearance and worked for the S6, I worked directly for at the time Full Bird colonel Michael J Warmack who retired as General just this past October.
I also was awarded the Global War On Terrorism Service Medal and Army Achievement metal.
when I got out of the Army I struggled so bad. I have severe PTSD from losing battles in war, having to be a pall bearer to burry my battles from being killed with am RPG , you can verify that info on the 95th Civil Affairs webpage. On the memorial wall under current campaigns OEF Afghanistan. MAJ ROBERT LINDENAEU was killed by RPG at the rank of CPT and was given promotion at death. That funeral had over 1k ppl there along with local news channels.
I have been struggling for several years. I have been inpatient in the hospital psych ward and domiciliary. I have terrible anxiety, anger, trouble building relationship and friendships.
Along with a blown out lower lumbar and AVN of both hips femoral heads from being airborne.
I went through so much pain and suffering. To this day I still struggle. I’m on a lot of meds and I see a Dr twice a month. It’s been 13 years since I have been out of the ARMY. It took me 7 seven years after the ARMY to get my Service Connection. I thought I was going to die before getting help.
But I didn’t. The VA accepted me with open arms, thank you to Hampton VA hospital for that. The staff at that hospital saved my life. I’m nowhere near ok, but thanks to the VA I am able to live somewhat without suffering in silence like I did for so long.
For me it was like going from being important and being someone to being insignificant and a nobody. Once I found employment, I could not believe how stupid everyone was and how they approached tasks. I finally went back to work as a federal employee and then I saw how lazy federal employees are. That was 9 years ago. That first couple years was the roughest two years of my life. Now everything is great.
As a black American veteran i was discriminating against when i left the military had two Bachelor degrees , ,no criminal records with credit score of 780 could not get a VA loan for a home, i ask the bank why i loan was turn down, the woman look at my application and saw my race was black , she erase black and put white , the next day the bank call me and approve my v.a home loan
I believe you!
For two Bachelors degrees your written English is not at the level of a high school graduate.
What bank was this? (It would be nice to know, so we all could avoid it.)
Mr. House sir I have been an anti-racist since the age of 13, over 53 years ago! I almost lost my last meal when I read your post. I certainly understand why you may not want to get into too much detail. I was married twice to black women, one of which was the daughter of a local black panther leader and my current wife is one-half black/dark skin. However, please provide some general details such as WHEN and WHERE, at least the state. In my opinion it should go without saying that whoever the decision maker was that initially rejected your home loan should be held accountable but realistically I know that they will not. Please allow me to share a thought: DIVERSITY means DIFFERENT and should not be the primary focus of our society, our primary focus must be INCLUSION which means ALL. Here is an IDEA – Inclusion Diversity Equality Acceptance!!!!
I agree. I couldn’t get employed because I didn’t speak fluent Spanish. It took me a year to find employment but civilians were not professional enough. A PFC in the USMC could do a better job managing. The civilian world needs real training.
Your story is the same as mine. I enlisted as a young 20 year old and
After 23 years of service., I retired.
My entire young life was disciplined through the military.
Most civilians found me “odd” to confined to rules, regulations.
Being fair, not divisive.
And this was CHURCH.
You r right USAF fetired, I am also retired from the USAF & Army 25 yrs worth, and some jobs the people just didn’t understand us vets especially us VIET-NAM VETS, the publics view was that all we were was programed to do was to be baby killers. not true. S/SGT BOB M.
, Ret E-8, US Airforce, 1969 – 1995. I experienced some difficulty because I didn’t properly prepare myself for retirement. Panama City, Florida is a small city and not many high paying jobs unless you wanted to work in the paper mill.. I sold back a ton of leave time plus my pension and wife working I thought I had it made. In a couple months the bills kept rolling in and it’s time to look for a job. I started working at Panama City Marine Institute for children at risk. Loved the job but civilians don’t stay in their lanes of responsibility. Way too much micro-managing, younger inexperienced people telling you what to do and how to do it because they out rank you. I made it there for a couple years and moved on to Lockheed Martin, There I worked on jet engines and got my Aircraft and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate. A couple years later I started working in Saudi Arabia, working on F-15 aircraft. If I would have applied myself and gotten a Bachelor’s degree, along with my A&P Certificate I could have avoided a lot of head aches. Now everyday is saturday because I’ve retired for good. Loved the military it changed my live for the best.
My husband was in Special Forces at Ft Bragg When he got out He tried to go to school at the U of Mn We were told that his education at Ft Sam and Bragg would be transferable. NO not one class. The medics are highly trained, But to treat our Medics as creap is wrong. Several years later he killed himself. The job he loved the most did nt work. He did get a job working in a small village in Ak,. The lies we were told is the hardest partt. Please put a stop to these guys the creep that he went through still hit home
😱
Omg
I’m so sorry .
Just as a person thinks their story is terrible.
Someone else’s story is worse.
My prayers to you and your family.
Omg
Our brother in the Lord Jesus’ arms.
Janet Phillips
That is terrible, I also served at FT. Bragg I was Airborne. I actually worked for 95th Civil Affairs, spec ops. I trained with special forces on all of my down time. Hell I went through Robin Sage 3 times, first time with the special forces side, the other 2 times I was Gorilla Force of Pineland. Just Curious I know a medic who killed himself and I can’t help but ask, what was your husband’s name who killed himself?
Drafted, combat tested, survived. Got spit on and called baby killer, people were scared of me ( with just cause) , drank for 25 years yrying to forget.
A sgt major started a ptsd clinic got me in and really helped until afellow vet started telling people i worked with what was said during sessions.
I have done some good and survived again, now 75 living and always remembering nam. I wish you all a welcome home and belive it or not it will get better. I like to think. Keep at the va it only took me 15 years to get in the door, but watch your back good luck and again WELCOME HOME!!!
Like others I was in A CO. 2/506
WAS IN THE FIELD. CARRY A RADIO THE NEXT WEEK ON MY WAY HOME HOW ARE YOU SUPPOSED TO ACT WHEN YOU GET HOME LIKE THAT EVERYONE HATED YOU.
It was just totally different, looking at the civilians doing the dumbest things work wise
I wish I had stayed in . I would have ended up staying over seas and living there, Big difference but I would have love it. But I was young and dumb at that time.. big mistake on my part! Would have very successful.
The transition was easy, as I had a career waiting for me. I did 6 months active duty and 5 1/2 years National Guard.
While on active duty we were preparing to muster out, when the East West Berlin crisis happened and we were preparing to become active, should this incident break out in a war, and we were ready which ever way it went but fortunately it was over quickly and we mustered out. Now I’m 85 and becoming a Greatgrand Father.
Brian Doyle
James Bynum USA Ret, Served from 1974-1997. Went into business for myself opened up a national Franchise Subway 1997. I guess my expectations of my workers would be a higher standard. I found out soon that everyone didn’t feel the same way I did about life. I went to work for the government U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. A lot of people were former military and the commands were commanded by Army Generals. But there were only 3-5 active military personnel assigned. You find out very quickly how much some people resent former military personnel. Then they start to ask you what grade were you when you were in the military, then they know what grade you were hired in. They try to figure out your money. The military was good for me, but it doesn’t work for everyone. I caught hell being assigned to Infantry Divisions in combat arm units all the time. If it wasn’t for sports I probably wouldn’t have made it to retirement. If your a veteran in and around Atlanta stop by our Restaurant Yummies Café, 7523 Hwy 85, Riverdale GA 30274. Look forward to seeing all of you on this Veterans Day. All Veterans 20% discount .
Quota system in effect , had little , no chance of good gainful employment . Despicable
I got out in dec.of 1966 after 4 yrs. of the marine corp.we were landing by the air force at danang on march the 8 of 1965 and put a perimeter around the air strip i really thought that we were doing the right thing for nam but the war was a mistake we should of never been there we lost all of those people for what? when we landed back in the states at san deigo naval we were spit on by the real americans from that day on we have the same people that have done the same thing to all the men and women of military they have given us the fondas and all those sports people my family and others thought that we were dumb I have been told that we all should of died over there we arent good for anything I was one of the lucky ones my wife and kids believed in me THANK YOU GOD SEMPER FI
When my husband came home from Vietnam he was on medication for hives all over his body he was in the hospital in Japan for three months unable to breathe gave him shots in his heart went to the veterans hospital and was denied help life was miserable for him and me so many doctors trying to change food one doctor tried some other medication to calm him down eventually it started to lighten up the struggle was so upsetting with No help from the veterans administration my daughter passed away at age 39 and my son at age 47 heart attack and aneurysm possibly from agent orange one son left that has breathing problems also lost my husband at age 63 heart attack served his country had no help heart wrenching
My husband served in the Army during Project Freedom. He was a 50 cal gunner on a Humvee. He served on deployment for 18mo. He was proud to be in the front and working to protect his fellow troups.
This man got out of the service in 2005 with honorable discharge. He was a confident young man when he went in. Now he hates everyone, flies off and destroys things in fits of rage and alcohol. He is a complete recluse just to try and stay away from the normal people….. crowds make him extremely scared and really dangerous. He worked Burnpits a lot, came back with this supposed diagnosis of reflux, all medication given does not work. The VA doesn’t listen when he is telling them that he can’t keep a job because he gets angry at bosses, customers and coworkers and attacks or screams at them irrationally. The VA doesn’t listen when he says my medication is not working to mellow his emotions or for “supposed acid reflux”. The man gets hardly any sleep at night. I have been advocating for him constantly to no avail.
I wish the VA could be a fly on the wall here. Don’t get me wrong they do prescribe some medication, but I don’t think it’s the correct medication for what he is going through. He has 80% disability, I think these diagnosis’ are done in this way to keep him from getting the 100% he is owed for disability, and he goes from suicidal to demon from minute to minute nearly every day. I love him and wish there was a way to get proper treatment.
I know there are many of you out there fighting all this as well, my telling his story is to let you know you are not alone! Continue to fight for what is owed to you(it is owed, it didn’t come free). I am proud of all you that served, it is a life sentence done for our great country. Thank you all from a most loving heart.
File for 100% due to unemployability. Worked for me!
Worked for me, too.
You just have to show a disrupted pattern of employment.
Yes I am a Vietnam veteran. We were never told how to handle our coming back to the world as we us to call it. The way we’re treated didn’t help. We were coming back to calling us baby killers. The world war 2 vets called it a conflict when you lose that many men it’s a war. This didn’t help our attitude. The use of agent orange when it was banned in the USA. After all we are is a number RAxxxxxx. That doesn’t help when you have PTSD. I’ll stop here. A fellow veteran .
yes i go thought the same thing, that calem there no medication for reflux
I was in the U.S, Air Force 20 years (1959 – 1979) I was stationed at bases all over the States, Viet Nam (68-69), Thailand, Germany, Middle East, Guam, Korea. I retired as the 49th airfield supervisor at Holloman AFB New Mexico in 79′. I had no problem transitioning from military to civilian life.
After I left the air force I became a GS-12 Target Control Officer at White Sands Missile Range, NM
I’m not a menber of the woke generation and I do not blame other people for my problems.
WEL*COME OME BROTHER0*
TYPO, WELCOME HOME BROTHER,
The Air Force was my life for 20 years. I flew while in Vietnam, 66 – 67 it seemed like we landed all over from the south up to Hua. I did feel sorry about the men fighting on the ground, but at least they could hide. When the bullets started coming thru the plane there is no place to duck or hide from them. I had just went back and sat down across from the only Vietnamese that spoke English when he got shot in the back and came out his chest. The rest of the Viet troops went ape sxxt. Had to take care of the wounded and calm down the troops. When I came home I could not even make love to my wife, afraid to get too close. The only person I trusted and able to get close to was my little daughter 2 1/2..I was medically grounded. The only thing that saved me was the structured life style of the military. The VA said I was 70% PTSD. 3 heart attacks and open heart surgery.
I think I was robbed of my benefits I have a honorable medical discharge and can not get any benefits what so ever. What can I do to get my benefits ?
Sorry you having a hard time, but your nearest DAV, veterans of foreign wars or any veterans affiliated organization can help you a great deal or try your local V A representative. Best Wishes,
I need my pension benefits upgraded and I have not found a person or situation yet that can do so I’ve been ran around for the last 30 years with no pay raise no endorsements nothing but deductions of what I owe back to the government somebody messed up the files and retired on me there’s nothing I can do except go from one counsel to another one so I’m running into a dead end please call me at 646-474-8652 or 718-527-7519 thank you very much if your respond
I served in the USN for 4 years. I am disturbed by what I am reading from vets about not being welcome when they returned from Vietnam. I was not in combat so it is not my place to complain about the treatment vets did not deserve. We flew jets everyday from the aircraft carrier I was on off the coast and I slept on clean sheets every night so I have nothing to complain about.
I went back to college but many knew I was a vet but not once did anyone say anything negative to me nor did I experience some of the personal insults I read here. I did not talk about it, rather, I tried to be the best student possible.
The Navy was good for me. I grew up with no discipline at all and alcoholic parents. The Navy taught me discipline and I embraced it. For that reason, I never complained about the Navy and hold it in high esteem.
I guess the point I am trying to make is, complaining about everything makes you go backwards in life. So does feeling sorry for yourself.. When I read vets talking about there is no structure in their civilian jobs, after their enlistment, tells me they need to find a life. Danny said it right, Take Charge of Your Life!!!!! Sad!
Richard thank you for putting that into a positive attitude and yes i’m also a retired disabled veteran and i had served 10 years in the United States Marine Corps i was in Kabul Afghanistan and Zambia África and it was a hard job but somebody had to do it… I went in to the marine corps at the age of 18 and got out at the age 28 and here i am battling with PTSD from the military and yes it was hard for me to to deal with society again and now that i’m doing well and trying to survive with my health im ok…. Congratulations on your completion
You were just fortunate!!!
Agree
Richard
I served in the US Navy from approximately ’66 -” 70. (Nam era) I can’t remember right off due to recent non military memory problems from doctor’s oversites. When I got out I returned to college at FSU.. Years later I discovered FSU was known as Berkley of the South because of all the war protesters, demonstrations and grief for soldiers.. When you just get out your look and act military. I was plainly an outcast and other students would comment about service people as being baby killers and war mongers. It was real hard meeting friends, not mention some of the hassles from professors. But moving on about 15 years I got married. It was about 10 further on that my wife and I met her old room mate. It was this person that commented, “Remember the demonstration we attended protesting the soldiers coming home?” I looked at my wife and said, ‘”So, how’s it feel being married to a baby killer.?” No comment.
I served in the US Navy, 1971-1975. Yes, Vietnam vet. I caught the end of that war. The shameful departure (draw down “all” US Troops from Afghanistan) just opened up a lot of old wounds. The comparisons with the fall of Saigon made me angry & sick! I was discharged “Honorably” with a set of psychiatric illnesses. There was way too much stigma attached to that in the 70’s and on, right up until recent years. My discharge was at a time when the counry was still divided (Hawks vs. Doves or you could say…Patriot Citizens vs. Pacifist, Traitor, Pussies!) and I was grouped in with others, even those that served in Vietnam long before me. I had a difficult time making friends with civilians too. I couldn’t even get a job interview until my hair grew out some and I allowed a full beard to come in. I strived to “NOT LOOK MILITARY”, so that I could catch a break. The notes from the Navy Psych., doc were given to me with strong encouragement to let the VA address my mental health issues. WHAT A JOKE!!!
I served for 20 years and was a HR guy but when I got out I couldn’t get hired. When I did get a job it was not the same as the Army. There was no leadership and it was just all backstabbing. Hard to find a job as a disabled veteran.
I’m speaking for my husband with over 20 yrs of service in the U S N .he medically retired as a chief E7. He was told he had radiation posining..his joints became. Imflamed and was in severe pain that let him to drink alcohol to forget the pain..the drinking became so severe that let to scitsofraniia and no body cared I seen him turn from a healthy man to a frail old man at 60 he passed away. He had a hard time receiving orders in civilian life. He did work and tufted it. So what about the spouse that supported him. WE ALSO ENDURED A HARD TIME TRANSITION INTO CIVILIAN LIFE..AND WHILE THEY WHERE SERVING IN THE MILITARY. I myself had a very hard time and I’m very bitter..
Dear Lydia,
Just finished reading your comment.
I retired from the Navy with 23 years.
Assigned everywhere.
Your husband suffered and was depressed.
It happened to me also.
It was not fair for him.
But now my friend, turn your bitterness back to joy.
Pray… and I will pray for you.
Get counseling. Counseling as difficult at first for me.
But reading, learning to trust again helps.
Bless you.
Janet Phillips
Laurel Maryland
I am. Vietnam Veteran who was discharged in 1969. Coming back to civilian life made very bitter in that no one cared, labeled me a murderer and had difficulty finding a job. I was an electronic technician and wind up repairing tvs. I worked for the postal service and really could understand why they had so many shootings. Supervisors had no leadership clues and were very cruel. I am now retired and see the country getting even worse. I wish all the vets well. Semper Fi.
Sylvester I’m right there with you I got out in 69 right out of Vietnam had to leave California or I would have been in jail I too was spit at at San Francisco airport by some protesters call me a murderer and everything else but I’m right there with you Sylvester I’m still having a hard time and I’m going to be 74 soon I take all kinds of pills in the morning to deal with my PTSD so good luck to you brother
In listed 69 served 11months vietnam.. Served total of 31 months including 17 months in Germany 6 months of that with wife. Came home went back to mill work . ”CHOSE TO NOT LET THING BOTHER ME” retired after 38 years. Filed for VA disability for heart and agent orange affects .Got 80% .just married 71 years 2 kids 8 grandkids 3 greatgrandkids.Enjoying life to the fullist.
Oops typo married 51 years.
I have been browsing online more than 3 hours today, yet I never found any interesting article like yours. It is pretty worth enough for me. In my opinion, if all site owners and bloggers made good content as you did, the internet will be a lot more useful than ever before.
i SAID IT WAS DIFFICULT. i DIDN’T SAY IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE. I still do things that most people would call paranoid or suspicious. Sleep habits and security measures. Trust issues with anyone who has never served, until I know them.
It’s only as hard as you make it. Most Vets think they are owned a free ticket . Man Up and take control of your life. You had the training and experience to run circles around what we have to compete with. I know I never worried about that. So do what you do best, “Take Charge”.
AMEN, I am a Vietnam Vet doing fine even being disabled from Agent Orange. So man up.
I do take charge but not that easy civilian structure of work experience is lacking. I retired three years ago and very highly experience in auto repair but Always got the hard jobs no one else wanted I keep my head up and push on
Thanks for all your efforts that you have put in this. very interesting info .
Nobody knows what they are doing, military service transition needs a lot of work. They need to focus on older veterans leaving service. Go over all the issues with returning to a civilian lifestyle. I’m not broken I’m just more experienced whether it is technical skills or leadership I’m a better product. IBEW, I’d love to work with them but they have no respect for experienced veterans because of their experience with none experienced veterans they think all veterans are dirtbags. Just go in and apply and see how you are treated. They’re missing out on a gold mine, on the other hand, a better job could be done by the military when articulating technical expertise. They need to be online with O net: https://www.onetonline.org. I have two degrees so it has to be age discrimination.
I had the same problem leaving the airforce as a Senior NCO Medical Technician. After I retired I had to go back to school and get my Nursing License. I have been involved in EMS / Nursing Education since 1970, I applied for a Nurse Educator position at a local hospital. By that time, I had 30+ yrs education, experience, had my MSN in Nursing Education, was an Independent Duty Medical Technician, a Superintendant for a Nursing Eduaction office, Been an Affiliate Faculty for the local Community College Nursing Program, and finished 5 yrs working in Cairo Egypt teaching the Egyptian Nurses Western style nursing. well during the SECOND interview I was asked how many years of bedside experience I had – being honest – I said out of 28yrs, 19 were bedside . Well I waas passed over for a THIRD interview because They had other nurses with MORE EXTENSIVE EXPEIENCE!!! Yeah right, I was a 58 yr old Male Nurse !!!
I understand your dilemma Alex. These civilians do not understand Veterans. I was Army 1973-1994, 12 years Ranger and 9 years SF medic on a hot team. When I retired I went back to school and got my Paramedic while I taught CPR at a community college. Finished community college and went to the university to complete my Masters in Education along with my MSN. Working all during this time maintaining a family of 5. My wife my very supportive but could not understand the problem with people? Civilians want to punish you for being in the military and one has to work harder than the others! They expect military to be non-confrontational. I learned very quickly to just do the job. I learned to look the other way for the people who feel they are privileged. I survived my 10 years getting it done. It takes effort and discipline which all military soldiers have. THEY do not have a clue what veterans go through or have gone through. Yes some of us are damaged but you will succeed if given a chance to succeed. They must be patient and so must we be. I hope this helps some of to understand your journey. I am now a traveling nurse with my wife enjoying my golden years I struggled to achieve going through out the US in an RV. Thank God I hung in there with my family and wife. I will continue to pray for all our Veterans every day. My brother Marine and sons Navy and Coast Guard. I will think of you all while I travel. Happy at 67 and still working. 2nd Ranger Bat and 7th group SF. “Rangers Lead the Way!” HRM
22 years after I separated, marriage and my relationship with oldest child is still broken. I don’t play well with others unless they are vets, so jobs are out.
I’ve been retired for 17 years I thought I could what I had in the military in the fire department, however the brother hood that firefighter’s believe they have is nothing you get in the military the several jobs I’ve been in since retiring from the fire department just offer nothing but a paycheck no leadership of any kind with the exception of narcissistic leadership
IO had an early provision so that I could continue college. I was the oldest student in my c lasses and was asked more questions about my service than I could give answers to. Those classmates that were post service men and women were strong support, I gave more to them than I needed from them. It made for a lot of loving companions down at our favorite bare that catered mostly to vets of all kinds.
My enlistment was cut short for Psychological reasons. When put on a temporary disability List, I struggled with everything, from College to Marriage. So many times I just wanted to die in my sleep or any other method possible. I had over 100 employments all over the Country and would be fired from them for NOT making any sense. My language was like word salad and it was difficult to remember things. Other than that, I was a proud SGT Helicopter Mechanic in the US Air Force. What happened? I just snapped one day and poof, I was on the street homeless, no self esteem and confused. I now go to the VA Medical Centers for treatment. To be honest, I still feel lost in my own mind. I still feel suicidal, but I think old age will get me first. Thank you for your survey
After 55 years I have yet to transition thanks to the lack of support from family, community and nation. From the bush to the US to a Naval hospital and medically retired in less than six months. Refused by the VFW and the American Legion, and ostracized by the glorious VA for more than 29 years, I simply do not play well with other children. I would rather be back in Vietnam than among American civilians!
That is so TRUE I served 64 to 70 and still get no respect People have changed so much since my father and older brother did I hate crowds of people and all the talking
Upon my return from Vietnam I weighed only 122lbs. I was so off the wall my dad took me to the nearest VA hospital in the Bronx. They kept me for 6 months. This was pre PTSD and I was told I had psychosis, whatever that means. At the time the place was a Zoo. Not only we Nam vets were resented by the general public, even the WWll guys on the ward were not at all supportive, They we’re told they were shell shocked or had battle fatigue.
After the 6 months I couldn’t take any more and signed out AMA. Then like many other vets the streets became my new war zone.
The rest of my life (including my careers) has been a roller coaster. My 3 marriages and divorces weren’t much better either.
What I’ve learned is that my life story is not all that unique. Countless other Nam vets have had a similar life experience.
What’s past is past. I just hope these more recent combat veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan have an easier time than we did, both in their treatment and the VA’s willingness to grant them their financial benefits.
I agree we were treated as scum non human and the family didn’t give any support it was like we were alone in a different world now sometimes now some will say you are a hero it pisses me off and I tell them the ones that gave all are the heroes not me I only gave some
You are correct John we are not the heroes, the ones left behind are the true heroes and mine! I served 73-94 and still resent the cliche “thank you for your service “ HEY you really want to show me your appreciation? Buy my lunch! Help me out! Something to show you understand our dilemma! Before going to Vietnam many soldiers were treated with a great send off in Vegas!! You don’t see that anymore. Take care John! Army Ranger Bob
When I retired from active duty in the Air Force, all I had known my entire life was the military (I was an Army dependent). I took a Civil Service job as a way to ‘slide’ into civilian life. That may or may not have worked, however I was offered a job at EDS, the company that Ross Perot, Sr, started. They loved the military and in fact recruited from the military, so my transition was easy. While there are some companies that actively hire veterans, they don’t recruit like EDS did in the 80’s and 90’s. He was truly a visionary. Look up his history sometime and the mark he made on the world, especially the World of IT.
I see my name on this list! What does it matter ? As one mentioned, “l don’t trust anyone anymore!!
When I came home from VietNam I was afraid to go to sleep for fear of waking up back there. I wondered around the streets of my home town for almost 5 days before I past out from exhaustion.
To this day I have trouble holding a job without a Union to back me up like when I worked at General Motors. There were years that I didn’t have a job after our GM plant sent everyone without 10 years in at the plant. I was locked in the mental ward for 2 weeks and when I was released the discharge said mild PTSD. I tried to get the police to kill me after a highspeed chase. I walked away from a wonderful woman after 9 years of marriage because I was drinking and becoming out of control. I didn’t want to hurt her or our son in a fit of rage. To this very day I don’t trust myself but the VA still turns me down for PTSD.
It was a little difficult adapting and finding my place in civilian life after my discharge. It took five years and a move to another state to finally get back on track, and start being a mindful and productive citizen. My knee injuries that I suffered during my military career and a divorce during that five-year stint didn’t help matters either, Once settled, I separated myself as far as I could from the military, until my brother showed me a more positive side of being an active veteran.
It was so encouraging to readxtge comments. It was very difficult to separate from military back to civilian life. There were not programs in place no behavior health! I was just lost in transitions. For at least 9 months was mentally paralyzed. I had so many mixed emotions and feeling guilty about leaving my brothers & sisters in Arms in harms way as I returned to USA. I was in the Desert Shield Desert Storm conflict. I served 1989 and seoerated 2003.
I retired in 1994. In the first job interview, I was told I wouldn’t probably fit in (It was the local water district!) because I had been taking orders my whole career. Excuse Me!!?? I had been GIVING orders since I was 21! They had no idea what I was capable of doing. Nothing ever came close to tapping my skills. However, as a Disabled Female Vet running my own show was the way to go. WIsh the civilian world understood what we are all capable of!
STILL IN TRANSITION…SERVED IN CONFLICT OVERSEAS.
WENT INTO VIETNAM 1970-71
THEN VIETNAM WENT INTO ME!
NUFF SAID
When I got out in 1980 I was told by my first sgt it wouldn’t be the same any more I blew it off and thought it wouldn’t bother me. Couldn’t have been more wrong. I even tried going back in they refused me because I didn’t have my GED WENT IN WITHOUT one but wouldn’t let me back in was very troubled about that. But still went and signed up for the reserves,had to be Involved some how then the Army national guard then the reserves again. Till this day I go to the VA for my service connected disabilities and collect my 80 percent. So ya I spent a lot of time many years wanting and needing to belong to a military family. I met some great people and some not. I learned so much about life and myself and respect. 17 teen year old and now 62. Maybe not everything turned out the way it should have for me but thank you Army thank you services for all I did get and have and learned.
I retired in 1997…. I still haven’t transitioned into the civilian way of life. It’s so unorganized and filled with the art of cut throat.
When I left active duty life was full of surprises and insecurities got slammed for my health care by my employer there was no one to talk to about what I went through
I was discharged 1973, nothing was even offered to us back then!! You were basically put out on the street!! I’ve been trying to deal with the transition ever since, and I am 74
It was and is very hard. I even went through a separation course before getting out, and let me tell you it was full of false information and none facts! You ask how? Well they don’t tell you that if you take the sep and then do or try to do anything with the VA they come knocking on the door for every dime you got and nothing you can do about it. They don’t tell you that your military time translates to nothing and job fears get you jobs like with t-mobile, and other low income jobs. Yah serve you country durning war and then screw you and good luck!
Go us Transition from
On release from active duty, veteran’s should receive bae pay for two additional years’ plus counseling aid.
That’s a good idea..
I agree. But even then. It’s been 10 years since I have been out. I’m worse off now than then. I don’t trust anyone anymore. I am not the same person as I was when I went in. My kids and wife remember me in a whole different way and say I was the most loving and kind man. Now they are no longer in my life. They hate me and can’t stand to be around me. I am alone and homeless. Rated 100% disabled 10 years ago with spine injuries and TBI. My mental state is 10 times worse than when I got out. I have nothing left. I currently a victim to the same system that victimized myself and my family 10 years ago. I can’t take much more. I’m to the point of why bother with life anymore.
I agree also a little late now, but for the rest.
Only job I could get in was being a cook and low wage jobs. The civilian sector gives a damn about veterans… All parts of civilian life.