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NEWS | June 8, 2011

Have a plan

By Master Sgt. Donald Leydig, Career Assistance Advisor Joint Base Charleston Professional Enhancement Center

Are you getting ready to separate or retire? Are you ready to transfer back into the civilian world? Remember, one day we will all have to leave the military, and unless you have a great financial portfolio, you will probably have to find another job. So, before you make this decision ensure you have a plan in place to help you better cope with the transition. I have seen many Airmen who are getting close to retirement or separation and have no plan on what they are going to do when that day arrives.

The following are some things that you might want to consider when you preparing to leave the military:

Have a financial plan. This is the biggest challenge you will have to face before you leave. Are you planning on attending school? Do you know all the rules and requirements in regards to your GI Bill? Do you know how to write a resume? Do you know where to look for a job? Have you thought about life insurance? If you are separating, have you thought about health care? Do you know your veteran's benefits? If you are living in the dorms or housing, do you have a place to live when you leave?

These are some basic things you need to know prior to leaving the military. Many of these are forgotten because they are automatically taken care of while you are serving.
Visit your Airman & Family Readiness Center or your Career Assistance Advisor to help you make a smoother transition into the civilian world. It can be a stressful time, but if you have a good plan in place then the process will go much easier for you and your family.

Please visit the Joint Base Charleston Professional Enhancement Center, or call your CAA at 963-2768 for more information.