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NEWS | March 2, 2011

Have a Plan

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

Are you getting ready to separate or retire and transfer back into the civilian world? Before you do, you need to ensure you have a plan in place to help you 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. Remember, we are all going to have to leave the military one day.

The following are some things that you might want to consider when you are leaving:
Have a financial plan: This is the biggest challenge you will face as you prepare to leave the military. Are you planning on attending school? If so, you should be familiar with the GI Bill you have earned. Do you know how to write a resume or how to conduct a job search? Have you thought about life insurance and health care or explored your VA benefits? If you have been living in the dorms or housing, do you have a place to live when you leave?

These are some of the basics 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. You need to visit your Airman & Family Readiness Center and 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 JB CHS' Professional Enhancement Center's, or call your CAA at 963-2768 for more information.