The post whore thread.

[mcjhr]

I soooo want a mullet..... I could do the friar mullet.... Male pattern baldness and all.

[fly boy]

Frankly, it'sa darned good thing I got out (retired) when I did. There is NO WAY I could deal with what I'm seeing in how the USAF is going today.

Finding a good/lucrative post-military job has a lot to do with what your skills are (what you did in the military). Some skillsets don't really carry over too well in the civilian world. BUT, most everything you do on active duty has a contractor position out there and those typically pay a fair amount more than the DoD claims you earn when you get your direct & indirect compensation statement each April.

My advice to anyone looking to get out:
(1) Get ANY ailments/physical issues documetned in your medical records. Go to the clinic/hospital multiple times for the issues if you can/need to so that it is a clearly documented issue. You'll want that for any VA claims. Even if you aren't interested in making a VA claim because you're "in far better condition than so many other guys", don't be a fool. You have a time limit to make claims. Who knows, something that's barely noticable now may become a serious problem later. Then, just before or just after separating, go to a non-VA affiliated VA advocate such as the DAV (my personal favorite). They can/will help you put together and file your claim for you AT NO COST. It's good to have experienced folks like the DAV, etc. in your corner for assistance and advice.

(2) Pay close attention during your Transition Assistance Program (TAP) training (Congressionally mandated training!!). Lots of great resources and wisdom given.

You're likely sick of working in a DoD environment, but consider it for employment. You'll bring a lot of skills to the job and they'll bring income to your family.

That's the problem - 2w271. I have tons of maintenance experience, but only have 2 basic associates - CCAF, Munitions system technology, and Instructor of Technology and Military Science.

It really depends what you want to do. One of my airmen is separating after 8 years of service and he's getting picked up by a denfense contractor. Even including BAH and benefits, he'll be making about $20k more a year with the new gig. He has an associates degree in art or something... basically a worthless degree. It's all about who you know.

That's what I figured. With the career field I'm in, it's EXTREMELY limited. and I could get a good job, but in a crappy city.

That is going to be the issue. However, in my opinion, the Army is doing a much better job at helping our Soldiers transition to a civilian career field. Could it be better? Of course it could be, but it is much better than when I first joined up.

There are jobs out there for folks who are willing to work. I find that many folks who leave the service are shocked to find out how hard they are required to work and how easy they are let go. Have a good attitude and be prepared to work for it.

Good luck!!!

I am VERY willing to work, and figure out a new 20 year career. I go to TAPS in March, and will again around September. I will take some advice and go get my back looked at a couple times in the next year just to have it documented.

Thanks again guys. And that you all for your service.

[HoneyBadger]

[OtterbatHellcat]

I wasn't a hippy or nothin'....maybe I can dig up a pic.

[OtterbatHellcat]

This aint it.

[brutal]

I've shown up at Jerry's for Christmas two years running now and he doesn't even notice me in the crowd as long as I play it low key.

Bring an old turntable, he'll notice.

[OtterbatHellcat]

'91 or 2 ish. Full of piss and vinegar.

[brutal]

2 mods, 1 thread

One ban hammer to rule them all.

[blackford76]

Sweet Hiboy! '76?

[HoneyBadger]

That's an awesome pic, OBC!