Transitioning from Military Officer to Civilian Life: What's Next After Retirement

Retiring from the military, especially as an officer, opens up a world of possibilities for your post-active duty life. Whether you pursue a civilian or government career, the choices can be diverse and fulfilling. Here, we explore various paths taken by military officers and share insights from those who have experienced this transition firsthand.

Common Career Paths for Military Officers After Retirement

Military retirement comes with a myriad of benefits, including financial and medical packages. However, given that retirement often occurs in one's 40s, many officers find themselves needing to stay productive beyond this period. Here, we showcase some examples of careers chosen by military officers post-retirement:

Agents of Change: The Exceptional Officer's Journey

Let's look at the experiences of some remarkable military officers who have embarked on new careers:

SSG Ashley: After 20 years of service in the Army, including the start of the QMP process, SSG Ashley retired in 1986. He then invested his time in running a pool hall, initially in the Chatham community of Chicago and later in Englewood. This shift from active duty to commercial enterprise demonstrated a knack for business and community engagement. Colonel Rouse: Colonial Rouse served an impressive 30 years in the USAAF/USAF, followed by a 26-year tenure in the US Marshal Service. He rose to the position of Chief Bailiff, showcasing the versatility and adaptability required in the role of law enforcement. Major Samuel Moore: Major Samuel Moore spent 20 years in the Air Force as a Meteorologist before transitioning to the Army Command and Staff College. As a DoD civilian, he continues to contribute his expertise to military education, which aligns closely with his former career. Chief Petty Officer Freeman: With a 20-year service in the Coast Guard, Chief Petty Officer Freeman shifted to teaching Mathematics at the US Coast Guard Academy. This path not only utilizes his extensive experience but also provides a new challenge and purpose. MSG McClinton: MSG McClinton, after 30 years in the military, became a full-time DoD civilian, managing Academic Support Services for ROTC Programs in Arizona. His transition to a more administrative and educational role reflects his commitment to shaping future military leaders.

Each of these individuals has found meaningful ways to continue their professional journey post-retirement, combining their skills with new challenges and opportunities.

The Frequency of Second Jobs

Many military officers opt for additional employment after retirement, especially as civilian careers. These positions can range from teaching, leading managerial roles in civilian industries, or serving in various government roles. Here are a few examples:

Military Officer to Civilian Teacher: After retiring from the Army, SSG Angie spent a period as a private military contractor before transitioning to the elementary school teaching profession, leveraging her experience and skills in a different but equally impactful role. Continuing Public Service: Colonel Anthony Holley's brother, SFC David, retired from the Army and is currently employed with the Department of Labor, demonstrating a commitment to public service. Corporate Manager: The author of this article, after spending some time as a private military contractor, also worked at the VA, then became a stay-at-home parent, and recently accepted a DoD civilian position with US Transportation Command. This diverse career path shows the flexibility and resilience often found in military officers. Advanced Educational Role: Colonel Pam Johnson pursued a career in teaching at the Army Command and Staff College, leveraging her extensive military experience to educate future leaders. Professional Appointments: Colonel Tom Culver transitioned to corporate roles such as an operations manager at a large multinational manufacturing company, showcasing his adaptability and versatility.

These transitions indicate that while the military provides a solid foundation and network, many officers seek opportunities to continue learning and contributing in diverse fields.

Conclusion: A Second Retirement as a Reality

Military officers often find themselves with a second retirement, especially in the civilian sector. This second retirement often comes with its own set of benefits, including a civilian pension, 401k, Social Security, and Tricare for life (acting as a Medicare supplement). This dual retirement ensures a more secure and comprehensive financial future, which can be crucial after retirement at a relatively young age.

In summary, transitioning from a military officer to a civilian or government career post-retirement offers numerous opportunities and benefits. By leveraging their unique skills and experience, officers can create fulfilling and meaningful careers beyond the active duty service.