Outside of the wire
- Keith Bunce
- May 24
- 4 min read
Transitioning from military life to civilian life is a journey many service members face. This change can be both liberating and daunting as individuals navigate new social landscapes, career opportunities, and personal identities. As they move "outside of the wire," they encounter unique challenges that can influence their overall well-being and future.
The Loss of Identity
For many veterans, the most profound challenge is the loss of identity. In the armed forces, individuals derive a sense of purpose and belonging from their roles, missions, and units. The military structure offers clear expectations, deep camaraderie, and a strong bond with fellow service members.
When transitioning to civilian life, this sudden shift can be overwhelming. Veterans often miss the supportive environment that defined their military experience. Instead, they may find themselves in a world filled with unfamiliar values and social norms, making it hard to fit in. A study from the Pew Research Center found that around 44% of veterans reported feeling disconnected from civilian life shortly after the transition, highlighting the common experience of identity loss.
Navigating New Stressors
The transition brings new stressors impacting mental health. Civilians may not fully understand the experiences and sacrifices of veterans, leading to feelings of isolation. For instance, a survey by the Department of Veterans Affairs showed that approximately 31% of veterans experience depression during this transition. Furthermore, pressures related to employment, financial issues, and family dynamics can create additional stress.
It is crucial for transitioning service members to recognise these stressors and develop coping strategies. Support groups, counselling, and community programs can provide the necessary resources. Joining veteran organisations can help individuals connect with others who share similar experiences, fostering a supportive network.
The Language Barrier
Adapting to civilian life also involves learning a different language. The unique military lingo – filled with acronyms and jargon – can bewilder those in civilian sectors, especially when using CLAP and karate chopping motions to indicate things. This communication gap can create barriers in social situations and job environments. For example instead of saying 'John is a honking piece of kit', you might want to say 'I don't feel John has the appropriate skills to carry out his job'. Egg banjo's will now be referred to as fried egg sandwiches, and you will be allowed to have more than 'one f****** sausage' when dining in a restaurant.
Veterans often need to translate their skills and experiences into language understood in the civilian job market. For example, a military logistics coordinator can present their experience in managing resources as project management skills. This kind of authentic reinterpretation can make a significant difference in how they market themselves to potential employers.
Rewriting the Resume
Veterans frequently struggle with rewriting their resumes to appeal to civilian job markets. The skills acquired during service, like leadership, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure, are invaluable but may not be easily recognised by employers outside the armed forces.
To emphasise transferable skills, veterans can follow these practical tips when crafting their resumes:
Use Civilian Terminology: Replace military jargon with terms recognized in civilian workplaces to make their skills more relatable.
Focus on Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments, such as improving team efficiency by 20% or completing projects under budget, to showcase the value they bring.
Keep it Concise: A clear and focused resume, ideally limited to one page, captures the essence of skills and achievements without overwhelming the reader.
Adjusting to Punctuality
In the military, punctuality is vital, instilling a sense of discipline. Nothing can beat waiting outside the armoury to collect weapons at 0400, only for it to open at 0800 and the transport for the ranges leaves at 1000. However, in civilian workplaces, views on time can vary. Adjusting to this new norm can be challenging for veterans moulded by strict schedules.
Understanding workplace culture is vital. While some environments maintain stringent standards regarding time, others adopt a more flexible approach. Recognising when to be adaptable and when to adhere to a timeline can significantly ease the transition into civilian work.
Finding New Purpose
Ultimately, transitioning to civilian life opens new doors for veterans seeking purpose and direction. Many pursue further education, start families, take up hobbies, or commence entrepreneurial ventures.
Exploring avenues that resonate personally can redefine one’s identity. For example, volunteering with organisations such as Team Rubicon, which utilises veterans for disaster response, provides not only a renewed sense of purpose but also fosters connections with like-minded individuals.
New Beginnings Ahead
Leaving the armed forces and entering civilian life is a complex journey filled with both challenges and opportunities. From coping with a loss of identity to understanding new stressors and adapting to different communication styles, the transition requires significant adjustment. By rewriting resumes and understanding workplace culture, veterans can navigate this new terrain effectively.
The journey "outside of the wire" offers the potential for personal growth, new paths, and fulfilling lives beyond military service. Embrace the change, seek support, and remember that every ending is also a new beginning.
Veterans are not alone in this journey. Numerous resources, networks, and organisations are dedicated to assisting service members in their transition. Embrace the journey with confidence and purpose, as the skills and experiences gained during military service remain invaluable.
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