Salute Strong Guide to a Successful Transition
Transitioning from military service to the civilian world is a pivotal journey that demands thorough preparation beyond the standard curriculum offered by each service branch. While these programs provide essential foundations, proactive steps can significantly enhance your transition experience. We’re here to provide you with a comprehensive guide to bolster your transition efforts, equipping you with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate this crucial phase effectively. By taking initiative and supplementing your transition process with additional support and guidance, you can ensure a smoother transition into civilian life and maximize your opportunities for success.
Get a Mentor
Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be a daunting process, but having a mentor can significantly ease the transition. A mentor provides invaluable guidance, support, and encouragement, drawing from their own experiences to help navigate the challenges of transitioning.
Where can I find a Mentor?
Finding a mentor can be a transformative step in navigating the complexities of transitioning to civilian life. You may already know someone who has successfully transitioned or can seek guidance from the Veterans Service Organization (VSO) at your base. Additionally, explore mentorship programs tailored to veterans offered by organizations like American Corporate Partners or Veterati. Leverage online platforms and networking events to connect with experienced professionals who can provide invaluable guidance and support.
Starting a Transition Timeline
DoD TAP has created an amazing interactive PDF Timeline that can be used to assist in the transition process. Salute Strong recommends that you download and use the helpful links provided. Click the pic to download.
Preparation Phase : 18-24 Months
Begin the search for your Mentor and start asking questions of those in the process of transition.
Data Gathering : Start consolidating your records in an “I Love Me Book” (Hard copy and Digital)
WARNING !!!! Once complied Salute Strong recommends that you safeguard your book. The “I Love Me Book” contains information that could be used to steal your identity.
I Love Me Book Contents
- Performance Reports
- School Certificates
- Profesional Certifications
- Joint Service Transcripts
- Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Transcript
- Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET)
- University Transcripts
- Awards and Decorations Certificates
- Master Resume
- Last completed SF86 Printout
- Letters of Recommendation
- Legal Documents (Marriage/Divorce/Adoption, etc.)
- Address List
This is not a all inclusive list of contents to put in your “I Love Me Book”. Salute Strong recommends that you include anything you think you would want to reference in the future.
Address List Recommended Information
Learning Phase : 12-18 Months
Salute Strong recommends this time frame to research as much information as possible to make an informed decision for your future.
- Make an appointment with your local TAP Counselor
- Schedule Initial Pre-Separation Counseling
- Schedule a meeting with a base provided financial counselor
- Research SkillBridge
- Research Colleges/Universities (GI Bill University Comparison Tool)
- Consider taking CLEP Exams
- Research Career fields
- Order your medical records (Military medical facilities are required to copy all of your medical records. It is best to start early. Give them a list of all instillations you have been stationed.)
- Begin your Service TAP Journey
Job/Education Search Phase : 6-12 Months
- Here is a great resource for the Job Search Phase https://www.careeronestop.org
- Start your job search – URL
- Attend Career Fairs
- Create Targeted Resumes
- Create a USA Jobs Account
- Air Force Civilian Service
- Free Premium LinkedIn Account
Education after military service is crucial for career advancement, skill development, and successful transition to civilian life for veterans.
Medical Prep Phase : 3-6 Months
There is a considerable difference in this phase if you are separating vs retiring. Please review each applicable section.
The first step of this phase is a comprehensive review of your medical records. You can do this by yourself or you can use a VSO. There are also several companies that you can pay to review your records and submit your claim on your behalf. Salute Strong recommends that you do your own research if you are going to pay anyone to look into your medical history.
General Medical Phase :
- VA Disability Prep (Review the Salute Strong VA Disability Prep Article)
- Health Insurance Study (Review the Salute Strong Health Insurance Article)
- Dental and Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance Study
- Long Term Care Insurance
Retirement Medical Phase:
- TriCare Review
- FEDVIP Review
- Life Insurance Review (AKA VGLI is a Scam!)
Seperation Medical Phase:
Salute Strong Medical Insurance Review
- Health Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Vision and Dental Insurance