Unveiling the Sacrifices: How Much More Must Service Members Give for Seamless Civilian Integration?

For years, as a Marine recruiter, duty demanded that I give my all to achieve our mission. This meant dedicating every aspect of my life to the cause, a commitment that might resonate with some but is often misunderstood by others. Throughout my 182-month career in recruiting, every month required absolute dedication and sacrifice, and it came at a cost.

We went to considerable lengths to ensure national security, but the pride of a well-done job outweighed any personal sacrifice. I thrived on the rush of leaving everything on the table, finding peace in our accomplishments, and reigniting that fire every time a new Marine succeeded in training or service.

However, there came a point when my physical well-being suffered, and the demands exceeded what I was willing to give. It was a lonely and fearful time, a departure from the usual adrenaline-fueled drive.

This week's newsletter aims to educate those in the workforce about the realities of service members' transition readiness, urging corporate entities and the United States Department of Defense to reconsider talent acquisition and talent management approaches and the challenges that affect transitioning service members. I pose questions to those unfamiliar with the realities that affect service members:

Did you sacrifice your personal life, relying solely on work for social interactions?

Have you willingly incurred significant expenses to fulfill professional duties?

Have you missed major life milestones due to work commitments?

Have you struggled to be present or available for your loved ones?

Have you faced criticism regarding your physical appearance in a professional context?

Have you worked under leaders who lack empathy and prioritize bottom-line results?

Have you had little time to pursue personal passions or further education?

Have you experienced a zero-defect mindset with little to no room for error?

Have you collaborated with teammates more focused on personal progression than mission success?

Have you been subjugated to an outdated system resistant to change?

Would you be content knowing that a low-producing employee is promoted based on their physical prowess rather than their capabilities?

Have you endured declining benefits and pay despite continued dedication?

If you have never served, would you continue to work for an employer that required at least one-quarter of the answers to the questions above to be yes, or would you seek a new opportunity or team?

It's crucial to recognize that the sacrifices made by service members daily are driven by a commitment to the greater good of the organization and not the individual. They are the backbone of our institutions, often undervalued for their selflessness and dedication, and feel thrown away after faithful and honorable service. It's a lonely time, and corporate talent acquisition teams are not trained to understand the military construct and demand corporate compliance for qualification.

While some advocate for extended service to prepare for transition, it's vital to appreciate the unique experiences and sacrifices of those who serve diligently. Their commitment to duty and selfless dedication make them invaluable assets when given an opportunity. No service member should spend a day longer in uniform beyond when their passion for service dims. This contradicts the culture that makes a strong force and further perpetuates an eroded warrior culture. It's unfair to our young service members, not in our nation's best interest, and causes more harm than good.

The narrative that values individual advancement over collective success undermines the essence of service. The nation can't afford to have its protectors distracted by self-interests over service. I advocate for individuals to develop themselves professionally, but not at the cost of the mission. Our national security is at risk, and that threatens every citizen and member of our great nation. It's time for corporate entities to adjust their practices and recognize the talent and commitment service members bring to organizations. How much more time, sacrifice, and commitment do you want to allow us an opportunity to join you seamlessly? Was our commitment to the greater good not good enough?

It's time for the United States Department of Defense to examine the difficulties surrounding a traditional end to one's service contract or commission. Service is about selflessness, a commitment to something larger than oneself, and this ethos strengthens our nation's defense. The status quo no longer suffices, affecting our country's safety, security, and stability. This is evident from veterans' lack of enthusiasm to recommend service to family members, friends, and strangers. Why would they subjugate their kin or loved ones to a system that does not fully embrace the reintegration of our "protected diverse population?" This contributing factor affects recruiters on the streets of America and makes them miserable: they tirelessly fight to motivate, inspire, and showcase the specialness of service with little to no help from the public. If we don't leverage current programs and affect change, our nation will be further divided and more vulnerable. This is not acceptable; this is not united or American.

I am proud of every day I served, despite the challenges. My experiences, though difficult, shaped me into a better person, driven by a sense of duty and a desire to contribute to something meaningful. I would do it again without hesitation, knowing service's vital role in safeguarding our nation's interests. I developed relationships that have impacted me, given me purpose, and made me a better man through service. My question to those in positions of influence is simple: Are you ready to make the necessary changes to support those who serve?