Life after military service can be daunting and communities should help

The author, a U.S. Air Force veteran, says leaving the uniform often causes loss of routine and identity and that the Department of Veterans Affairs does not teach veterans how to rebuild civilian identity. He calls on communities, employers and local leaders to create supportive spaces and for expanded education benefits to help veterans regain purpose.

Jason Boatwright, a U.S. Air Force veteran and advocate, writes about the challenge service members face when they stop wearing the uniform. He describes that moment as an unraveling of structure, routine and identity. The piece reports that the Department of Veterans Affairs focuses on benefits enrollment and employment programs but does not teach veterans how to redefine themselves outside the military. The author urges communities, employers and local leaders to help veterans reconnect and highlights expanded education benefits as a pathway to rebuilding purpose. Key points: - Taking off the uniform is described as a significant loss of structure, routine and communal identity. - The article reports that the Department of Veterans Affairs does not provide identity-based transition training for veterans. - The author says community institutions, employers and local leaders share responsibility for creating spaces where veterans feel seen and valued. - The piece advocates for expanded education benefits as a way for veterans to explore new careers and rebuild purpose. Summary: The article frames post-service transition primarily as an identity and community reintegration issue and presents community action and expanded education benefits as responses the author supports. Undetermined at this time.