Along with the reunions and sometimes-awkward conversations, initial transition is hard! If out-processing left you with a lot of questions, you are not alone. Some areas you may need transition assistance with might include, but are not limited too: adjustment with loved ones, PTSD and other mental health issues, employment, finances, medical benefits, and school. It is okay to be angry and frustrated and to not know where to begin. Take that frustration and get something done.
Throughout this section and for the rest of the manual, other vets will share some of their personal thoughts alongside the advice of the “experts.” I guarantee something in this manual will help with your transition. The first step now is to get you set up, registered, and plugged in.
step 1: Getting plugged in “The hardest part was getting answers for the questions we didn’t know to ask.
Whether you live in a big city or a rural community, it is possible for you to stay
Our debrief was about 2 minutes long. No one in my whole unit knew any of the
connected with other vets. Check out Vets4Vets at their website http://www.
services out there” (Anonymous, 2007).
vets4vets.us or the Iraq Veterans Project run by the San Francisco based VSO Swords to Plowshares. “The Coming Home Project” and Military.com are also
“I feel that the out-processing and job service program wasn’t emphasized
great places to get connected and find resources. Both Vets4Vets and “The Com-
enough. I feel that veterans’ benefits were not made available to all exiting
ing Home Project” run all expenses paid retreats and workshops. These events
service members…” (Anonymous, 2007).
are places where you can meet other vets and share your experiences, both
“I would have liked contact information to actual people in my hometown area for the VA, Vet centers, etc. My separation class should have been done at least 6 months before I got out instead of 2 weeks” (Anonymous, 2007).
good and bad. Along with similar memories of Iraq and Afghanistan, other vets can give you tips on the GI bill or applying for disability, which helps you with your own process. Inside tips can never hurt, so get involved!