For military veterans, the transition from a few years to decades on active duty to the civilian world can be as difficult as it is daunting. It’s often confusing to understand what your veteran’s benefits might be and how to access them, and even more of a challenge is finding a new job on the outside.
Through their REBOOT workshops, the National Veterans Transition Services helps those getting ready to leave the armed forces make a successful jump to life as a civilian. Focusing on personal, lifestyle and career transition, REBOOT use research-based methods in its approach to prepare soon-to-be military veterans for the next chapter in their lives.
“Providing a reserve boot camp, or REBOOT, is important to helping military members and their spouses transition out of military because it helps them to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully integrate into civilian life,” said Maurice Wilson, a retired Navy master chief petty officer and president of the National Veterans Transition Services. “REBOOT also provides an opportunity for veterans to learn about the resources available to them in their local community, such as job training programs, education opportunities and mental health service.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to the community, the USS Midway Museum has stepped in to assist REBOOT with its workshops.
“Holding REBOOT workshops on the Midway is a benefit for our organization and the military folks attending because it provides a unique and inspiring environment for them to learn about the resources available to them,” said Maurice, who also sits on the board of directors for the San Diego Veterans Coalition. “We appreciate the partnership we’ve developed with the Midway.”
“I wish I had this program when I transitioned from military service as it not only assists the administrative and procedural requirements for military transition, but it also supports the mental, emotional and physical aspects in making this critical leap back into the civilian world,” said Len Santiago, the museum’s chief engineer who is facilitating the REBOOT workshops on Midway. “REBOOT provides that tailored program to our service members while the Midway provides a friendly atmosphere and culture that is familiar to them.”
By providing knowledge and tools to servicemembers, REBOOT helps give them the confidence to successfully navigate the twist and turns inherent in transitioning to civilian life. By holding some of its workshops on Midway, the environment also helps put them at ease.
“Providing a reserve boot camp, or REBOOT, is important to helping military members and their spouses transition out of military because it helps them to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully integrate into civilian life.”
“The Midway’s staff and volunteers are dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming space for our workshop attendees to connect with each other and learn about the resources available to them,” said Maurice. “The Midway is also a symbol of patriotism and service which helps remind the attendees of the sacrifices they have made.”
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