As Leaders in the Military - We Need to do More to Help our People

As the former Commanding Officer of USS PROVIDENCE (SSN-719), I had the privilege of leading a diverse group of talented sailors, overseeing their daily tasks and missions and their personal and professional development. Upon reflection, one aspect that repeatedly comes to me that I wish I had done better is the transition process for military personnel returning to civilian life. We must adopt a more active role in supporting our people as they move out of military service.

The transition process often focuses on procedural elements—ensuring that departing service members attend the Transition Assistance Program (TAP), manage their paperwork effectively, and fulfill their final duties. However, while necessary, these steps are insufficient to guarantee a smooth transition. This approach is akin to managing a watch bill: it ensures that all positions are covered but does not necessarily attend to the deeper, individual needs of the sailors.

Transitioning from military to civilian life is a profound change that involves more than just a career shift. It encompasses a complete lifestyle adjustment and can often lead to significant mental and emotional stress. The end of a military career can bring uncertainty, loss of identity, and the daunting task of reintegrating into a civilian world that feels alien. Many service members struggle silently, reluctant to express their concerns in a culture that values toughness and resilience.

We must extend our support beyond logistical arrangements and acknowledge this transition's psychological and emotional aspects. Here are a few steps we could implement:

1. Proactive Mental Health Services: Mandatory mental health check-ins in the months before and following discharge could help identify issues before they become crises. These services should be framed as a routine part of the transition, not a sign of weakness.
2. Tailored Transition Planning: Each sailor has unique needs and circumstances. Personalized transition plans considering individual career aspirations, educational goals, and personal situations could provide more meaningful support.
3. Continued Connection: Establishing a mentorship program with successfully transitioned veterans could provide current transitioning members with relatable role models and advisors.
4. Cultural Shift: We need to cultivate an environment where seeking help and expressing vulnerability are seen as strengths. This shift could be facilitated through leadership training programs emphasizing empathy, listening, and the importance of mental health.

By focusing on the holistic well-being of our sailors, not just their immediate logistical needs, we can significantly enhance their success and well-being in civilian life. This is not just a policy improvement—it is a moral imperative to serve better those who have dedicated themselves to our nation's security.