How was your Transition from Military to Civilian life?

SFC Kevin Stampfly In Vietnam, I heard that we had landed on the Moon with Appollo 11. At the time, I thought that the Space Program would be a good career. Stationed at MCB 29 Palms, the Marine Corps had a bad drug problem. I made the hard decision to get out after four years and chase a dream. I moved to the Houston area, obtained a chemical plant operator job while going to school full time. I caught flack in College for having served and doing shift work made it hard because when I would take night classes, they were always a week or two behind the day classes. After five years, I had my degree and started a 33 year career on the Space Shuttle Program. Working and going to college helped with my transition because I was too busy to worry about adjusting to civilian life. I miss the Marine Corps but made the right decision. Being disciplined and organized made the transition to civilian life manageable.

Retired 28yrs - was easy for me....one can't stay in the Army forever, a planned exit strategy is the key -> no matter how long you serve/served; have noticed that those that dont have a good exit plan seem to have a hard time transitioning....

SFC Kevin Stampfly my experience was very difficult. I was nearing the end of my four years, and had decided to stay in. MST led me to change my mind kind of in a panic state, thinking it was the best way to take care of myself. In those days PTSD/MST weren’t even named as issues yet.
I was miserable as a civilian. Felt lost without the structure and camaraderie, despite the difficulties in my unit. And for decades I missed the belonging I had experienced.
I was unaware at the time of any programs in place for transitioning from military to civilian life. Now, there are so many… I highly recommend them. Especially those found in peer support groups. Having a buddy who has successfully managed the process can make the shift easier.