Leaving active service was uncertain, but it is exciting in my life. Like those who went in front of me, I dreamed of developing my hair, traveling anywhere I wanted and took a break from the mandatory PT.

The desire to drop everything, firmness Uniform Away and put military life in the rear vision mirror is a strong one. This idea of ​​complete liberation crossed my mind several times over the years.

But as a person who has never planned to be a “life”, being a part -time weekend warrior made my transition from active service easier than expected. For this reason when I talk to people preparing to separate from the army, I often ask them, “Have you thought about reserves?” (No, I am not Recruiter))

Here are five simple reasons that make you think about going to reserves to help you move to civilian life a starting point instead of a stumbling block:

1. Money for education

when Old Warrior Affairs Department In fact, it performs its payments on time, Ji Bell Very generous. It covers tuition, housing and costs. But everything else comes out of the pocket. For this reason, in addition to my wonderful wife, I thank the reserves for obtaining the law school. I guaranteed income every month, along with the additional weeks that I did every summer. What is the other onlooking function that provides good salaries and great benefits (for example, Tricare Reversion Select) To work only one weekend per month?

2. Travel

Except for some Publishing operationsOne of the best parts of the army is the opportunity to travel. You can still travel in reserves. In fact, some units encourage him. Although my training is located at the same site at the end of each week, I explain it to schedule my annual tour at a place outside. For example, I went to South Korea last year for an exercise. It was a great experience.

3. Professional growth

When your first civilian job falls, the possibilities are greater than your professional peers. It may be frustrated to start at the bottom, especially after all the previous responsibility you bear. This is why wearing the uniforms of reserves feel a reward. It allows me to grow as a professional and keep my leadership skills sharp when I am calling for more upper roles with the civil employer.

4. Service

The reason for many of us joined the army is the service when our nation needed us. As a result, the army spent a lot of time and resources to train us. It is difficult to stay away from something after I devoted a lot of time and energy to master Tradecraft. So, while we gave the army some of the best years of our life, I think we all have a lot to offer.

5. Job security

Even the most thinking and organizing plan needs a backup copy. It was a reserve for me. The worst cases scenario, the economy takes a contraction and left a stampede to find a full -time work. Today, I am sure that if this situation arises at all, my unit will do its best to make orders until I found something sustainable. This makes the army more than just another job: it is like an extended family looking at you.

Six years have passed since I left the active service. I am still in reserves and I have more control over my life than ever. It was a real victory.

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