Camp Pendleton Marines prepare for life as veterans

Research shows military veterans are more qualified academically and more experienced for jobs but the San Diego Workforce Partnership says they are often passed up by non-veteran peers.
Ahead of Veterans Day, CBS was invited to Camp Pendleton's training program that helps Marines transition to civilian life after active duty.
Full story on CBS8.com: www.cbs8.com/a...

[@JayC771]

It's not as easy as people think. Edit: Thank you all for sharing your experiences!

[@gogurtz1738]

100% true, I got out over 2 years ago and it’s rough out here. There’s bad leadership and BS everywhere you go no matter what profession you hold unless you work for yourself than that’s different. I have a good paying job but, that check goes towards rent, insurance, utilities and other stuff. Sometime, you work more than it’s expected of you and even on holiday, where in the military you get 72 and 96. Rather still prefer civilian side though 😆 at least I can just quit at anytime I want too.

[@gannieshekhar4493]

@@gogurtz1738 Decide to go to school and be a leader then brother. Cater to these problems you see in your field and BAMCIS like a boss. It'll make you rich

[@rusty7984]

@@gogurtz1738 Not only that but you’re not getting blasted by a grown ass man for not telling him good morning. Or have a plan for the day instead of picking up cigarette butts because there is nothing to do but you can’t secure until a certain time. Or police calling in general and having to start over because someone found one piece of brass

[@gogurtz1738]

@@gannieshekhar4493 ah yes! Go to school to be a leader, and all you get when you’re trying to fix the problem is “fuck off” even though the problem itself start at the very top.

[@journeyto100channel2]

I got out In 2018, it wasn’t easy at all juggling Crippling Mental health and managing a Rocky Marriage, I didn’t even Consider the Time to Fine Schooling or Job fairs, I blame myself for Staying stuck at home in my Bedroom and living Quiet Lifestyle. Being a 03 has Only taught me to Get my head outta my ass and to Govern the ability to Take Action to any situations at work or home. I feel slow, and so behind being age 29. I don’t have Major Knowledge in anything, but I learned to Strive for Anything, it’s discouraging Af but I’m gonna try and get my foot in the door going to school for Computer Science and see where it takes me. I’m sure Many Veterans go through the same shoes. I never had that Gung ho Mentally either. I’m sure lots of Vets fall into a Pit once out of Service.

[@MrRiveraRosa]

More respect should be shown to ours veterans. They bring with them discipline and willingness to work hard. And many are lucky to come back alive and healthy.

[@abc123lov7]

I've worked with plenty of vets, who were always late, lazy and just an all around annoying. Just because someone went to the military don't mean they have their siht together. Do I respect their service? Yes. I don't know what you mean by more respect... even though I have 15 years experience in my field a veteran with less then 2 gets paid more then me. Which I'm ok with I get it. Not to mention discounts everywhere, they have their own day. How much more respect do they need? I'm not.hating or keyboard warrior.. just want to understand what you mean by More respect.

[@gregorygrinstead9514]

The Veterans Transition Support group based in San Marcos helped me out tremendously. As a transitioning 4 year Infantryman, they gave me the credentials needed to get into the Safety Industry. They also helped me build my resume and interview skills in order to secure a position. I got out in April 2022 and upon transitioning was immediately given multiple offers in the safety field. I now work for an international corporation as a Specialist. Will never forget the cornerstones that helped me get here. Thank you Russell!

[@diegoleal4943]

The hardest part about the military, is life after the military.

[@TattsnGuns]

Truth

[@uadrama]

Why ?

[@TattsnGuns]

@@uadrama in all honesty, indoctrination. In a good way.

[@derington256]

When I got out of the Marines in 2004 I was working as a machine operator at a warehouse. I ended up quitting because all the guys there kept hounding me to slow down because I was making them look bad. When I went into the Air Force Reserves in 2007 my supervisor gave me a list of 20 items to take complete on a Monday. I had them all done by lunch. I reported back to my supervisor only to find out that list of tasks was supposed to take the entire week. He made me sweep and mop the floors in the squadron everyday for the rest of the week. I say all this to give you a different perspective on how others will look at you. Take a step back and find yourself a mentor that can give you tips on how to succeed in that company.

[@myers5159]

Med school would be good for you lol. I plan on doing med school when I get in and out of the marines

[@derington256]

@@myers5159 I ended up serving 13 years in the Air Force traveling the world as a KC-10 Avionics/Crew Chief. In addition I did 8 years as a DOD Civilian. I now drive a semi-truck.

[@myers5159]

@@derington256 sweet dude! I chose enlisted air crew as my MOS so I can travel too.

[@derington256]

@@myers5159 I enlisted as A/C in the USMC as well. In 2002 When we were like 2 weeks from graduating from A/C school we found out our hole class was being placed on the osprey. Myself and about 4 others DOR due to the track record of the osprey crashing back then. We would rather have our chances as 0311. So we went open contact and I ended up getting Disbursing Technician(Finance). I got stationed back on Paris Island and cemented my decision to get out. I was in from 2002-2004. I served in the USAF from 2007-2019.

[@derington256]

@@myers5159 just be ready for A/C school at NAS Pensacola. You will have retired chief petty officers out running and performing everyone of you, lol. We did calisthenics and running for about 4-5 hours in the AM and about 4-5 hours in the pool in the afternoon. It was definitely more physically demanding then Marine Corps Boot Camp.

[@MountaintravelerEddie]

I retired from the Marine Corps with 3 college degrees and worked for the State of Nevada for five years….I was recently terminated because “I’m a scary army guy that has PTSD that is going to come in here and kill us all”… But just a week prior I saved a fellow employees life. Civilians don’t care, I was a supervisor and because I followed the book, many didn’t like me. I was never late, I worked super hard and even have 2 kids full custody since I retired. But someone said that I joined the military to kill people and people are scared….(lie)….. My actual recruiting documents said I joined to see the world…and to better my self. I did that and traveled to 56 countries and 48 US States, I speak 9 languages and started my PHD…..in audiology. Ok, so yes I have 8 years of combat in 4 countries. Guess I’m the scary guy..!! But the one that submitted the complaint is a complete snowflake..!! What a slap in my face..!! The kunt is still working in the office….and I’m gone because they now prefer a fat blue haired transgendered person that lets them get away with everything. What a way to give a middle finger to me!!!

[@shrekonion598]

Sorry to hear that man

[@diegocortez270]

Karma is something no one is ever able to escape, it’ll come back around

[@MrRiveraRosa]

For that very same reason I never told anyone about my military service during Viet Nam.

[@ivanelrino]

Is it wrong that I joined the Marine Corps to kill people?

[@MountaintravelerEddie]

@@MrRiveraRosa I didn’t tell anyone It’s kind of hard when you spent so many years of your life in the military…..

[@charlesvire7517]

Being a United States Marine Infantrymen stationed at Camp Pendleton. We have to many Homeless Veteran’s… I hope 🤞 this help’s. Semper Fi

[@americanmilitiaman88]

6 months was spent transforming me from a civilian to a sailor then to a seabee. 1 week was spent attempting to prepare me for the civilian world. Also i was in Afghanistan doing convoy security just months prior to separating. Leaving buddies that you went through hard times with and being surrounded by people that have no clue. Even your own family. Not realizing i needed help. Im surprised i made it through alive. Life after is the hardest. Especially when you wanted to stay in but couldn't because of force reduction. And locked up rating.

[@eddieenriquez7110]

From one Seabee to another, thank you

[@xavierlopez6673]

Can the news cover why commanders and leadership are not letting Marines take advantage of skill bridge?

[@colonelcharles7494]

That is a good point or how they drag out medical boards and hurt you from doing anything else besides your job unless your politically connected. You also work 12 hr days at 19

[@journeyto100channel2]

My leadership Dragged my ass In the dirt until I got my DD214 and Ran far from the Marines after that. Looking back now, I wish I could have just Bitched So hard until the Day I Left. Leadership can Suck a Nut

[@justnsaliga8518]

because almost all these classes and courses you take when you get out are available only to staff and up. the only course to my knowledge E5 and below can attend is CDL course at skill bridge. i never had a opportunity to do it. they wanted ONLY NCO's and up and of the NCO's that they picked they had to have 1st class PFT CFT. even though the rules for skill bridge say anyone separating can go.

[@ShakiraFlabergasted]

@@justnsaliga8518 this happened to my command as well. Except someone in the chain wanted to establish an order that NJPd Marines wouldn't be allowed or given the opportunity for Skillbridge. Which is shitty bc not all NJPd Marines are "shit bags"

[@Daniel-gu6ut]

Unfortunately that is a privilege, not a right, at the end of the day your still owned and its up to them.

[@dark_praetor]

1:26 "Every dealership is seeking entry level technicians to come in service the vehicles that are out there" You see this is nonsense, because our mechanic vets getting out have 4-20 years of experience and you want to offer "entry level" positions and pay.

[@lifevlog6216]

I am about to finish my college degree this coming may in 2023, I got out of the army in 2019 and at first I didn’t know what to do after the military. However, while in college I figured it out and have done internships through USAJobs and I have a strong resume for public affairs. Just follow your dreams guys, don’t give up, and most of all find what makes you happy after your service. Good luck my brothers and sisters!

[@los1775]

Outstanding! Glad this part of the process is being improved.

[@lyssgoddess]

I literally got out of the army and was homeless for 6months. People talk about all the respect they have for vets but fr we get home and get treated like dirt lol it’s a joke to think our country respects soldiers or even marines lol

[@jonathandeleon5588]

I spent 4 years from 2018-2022 got honorably discharged from the Marines 4 months ago my MOS was an 0331 so I don’t have much experience in anything else so it’s difficult for me to find a job that’ll hire me. So depressing atm with what’s going on in life. I hope your life is better now.

[@lyssgoddess]

@@jonathandeleon5588 thanks man you too ❤️❤️ there’s too much hate in this world lol we all just tryin to survive 🤣 much love I hope u have a wonderful holiday (thanksgiving since it’s November now :))

[@seamusohoulihan666]

😥

[@vizisolutions]

Been out 2 and a half months, still no job guess I should've just used my GI Bill.

[@EJChevy]

You got your disability yet? If so use voc rehab

[@mrknowitall8663]

I did 8 years. I got out in 2012. It was extremely tough the 1st 3-4 years out. There arent these jobs that are just going to hire you because you are a vet or was a certain rank. Pick a trade, Carpenter, Painter, Handyman, roofing or Security. All the really good jobs are taken by the millions of people with Master Degrees or the millions of veterans that came before you. Its shitty but true.

[@josephohara2457]

Dude I didn’t realize that until a year leaving the marine corp all the shit my recruiter said about getting a job out of the marine corps was a lie you need qualifications for a lot of job in the marines and in the civilian world. I’m going to school to be a welder

[@mrknowitall8663]

@@josephohara2457 Exactly. They said the same to me and it wasn't true. There aren't these kush jobs just waiting for you.

[@Geeksly8010]

When I went through TRS I already was enrolled in my local community college for classes towards a degree in history. TRS did not teach me what to do when the military has no medical record of yours whatsoever past 2017 (I was active duty USMC from 2016-2021 now I’m in the army). For any transitioning vets I implore you to contact Hire Our Heroes, they will take every billet you held, every award you earned and all of the schools you attended while active duty and make you an extremely competitive résumé for any career. I used the resources they offered me and with my résumé I was offered multiple temporary jobs at a couple businesses to work legal documents for their company and a couple security jobs because of my SAF training

[@rickbivins3400]

Air Force: Trouble after service?

[@CHAOS_6E]

Some will still end up homeless and or unemployed

[@AustenAlexander]

From military to content creation sounds like a good idea to me 🤓

[@sadlycan]

happy theres a program. I didnt get any help at all and i got out in 2018 came in to camp lejeune to check out for a week and a half after being overseas for 4 years. no classes no transition packets no nothing. a week and a half and then.... crickets. besides a recruiter calling and emailing asking me if i wanted to go back in prior service. I had a plan sure but i was truly on my own. Besides them telling me you need to go to the va asap and get into the system for combat ptsd, your tbi etc. Vastly different experience from these guys. They truly dropped the ball when it came to myself and the guys i came with. its a crying shame

[@1Nathanc]

No matter what the recruiters say the military doesn’t translate well to the civilian sector. At most maybe being infantry and going police/ SWAT I can see that BUT most MOS’s for example 0111, 3051, 3043, Most don’t transfer in anyway to the civilian world. The military operates totally different. It’s not the same in the slightest. TRS gives you pointers but that’s it;if you did all your time and just get out. It’s more ideal to get out with a degree but not everybody wants to do school. 4 years in the civilian world is more valuable in the real world than 4 years in the military.

[@Kiryu]

Depending on your circumstances prior to your ETS I would recommend getting in contact with trade schools and using your G.I. Bill. If you need to you can work a part-time job to cover the difference in pay, while you’re doing that you can set up a job in a city or state that is not overly inflated on the cost of living. Get your experience out there and build a connection with the local community. You’ll find it much more refreshing then climbing butt naked under gun fire uphill with broken glass in certain parts of the country. For what it’s worth I was an infantry grunt with 7 years of service. That being said and based on my personal experience I would highly recommend moving to parts of the country that won’t treat you like hammered sh!t for being a vet.

[@wethethreekings4030]

Don't waste your life like me. Gov just uses you till you're broke and good luck after that.

[@darkast2679]

what branch :| is good then

[@wildhunt2235]

You were in the marines?

[@denbleach3712]

@@darkast2679 airforce

[@darkast2679]

@@denbleach3712 I want combat though, not though vehicles

[@nolancruzsmith]

This isn’t true for everyone. I’ve been in the corps for 3 years and I’ve had the best experiences of my life while in the military.

[@jacksont9455]

And it’s so funny because all we do is complain about TRS. At the time, it feels like like, one more BS thing that’s separating you and your DD214. But once you’re out, some of the skills turn out to be pretty useful

[@keithallen5670]

What about infantry marines were left high and dry with LEO as the only thing that remotely translates to our MOS

[@wowbryant]

There’s a lot of information for Marines to make there next career choice. There’s a slim chance employers are looking to hire you to carry a machine gun and go on night patrols.

[@treesareshady]

Free 4 years of college, skill bridge programs, paid skills-based training... the opportunities are there. The percentage of veterans that use skills other than "leadership, customer support, decision-making" from their MOS is probably slim to none. If you did 4 or 8 and are getting out, most of your peers are starting over too, besides, no one forced you to sign 03XX

[@carlclarkarmyret137]

The nation has NO "National Veteran Transition Program", No text or manual that captures data to drive transition, or even questions or checklists to screen various "types" and generations of veterans based on things like exposures or geographic data. Military services CANNOT prepare veterans for transition because the path of transition extends to too many variable and into communities with NO national text for VSO's to follow. In fact, "Greater Good" ethics has congressional rules set in place to NOT Help veterans at the community level.

[@Shackleford_Rusty]

This hits fucking hard, especially for all those devils that did multiple contracts. Glad this is being discussed, a little late but better than never

[@charlottehumphreys3837]

I would say it would be a shocker to transition from military to civilian life!

[@maxmendoza3297]

It's called TRS , isn't that impresive

[@frosty_cupp4885]

Skill bridge for marines is not all available for marines at times . Because they want marines to reconsider on reenlistment . When I had a conversation with the co at my duty station.

[@fmfdocbotl4358]

I got out the first time as a Corpsman and I got a job taking blood and wiping butts in a hospital, with all the things I did as a Doc. After a few years I said screw it and went back in, got injured and now fight with the VA for my disability crap.

[@adammartinez3149]

What years where u in

[@fmfdocbotl4358]

@@adammartinez3149 90-01 then retired in 13

[@adammartinez3149]

Thanks for your service brother. Got some tips for you on the Va if u need help

[@fmfdocbotl4358]

@@adammartinez3149 oh they know my name because I've had my congressman come in with me when they weren't acting right and I got a few of the bigwigs that check on me.

[@TheAj35brunson]

We not going to talk about the Marine sleeping at the end lol

[@ImperfectCreations]

I'm going to look now lol

[@michaeldowd8422]

You make sergeant in 4 years in the usmc? That would take 10-12 over here.

[@ImperfectCreations]

Like how when they show marines doing marine things, its only the enjos lol

[@chapel1980ify]

If anyone wants to thank me for my service I'll be under the o side pier giving Handy's for 5 bucks.

[@kingdedede9135]

I heard Crayola is hiring, marines preferred.

[@SpaceRanger187]

The need to be worried about filing their VA claim so they don't get fucked over

[@MIFU1989]

Might as well keep your service to yourself once you get out. Civilians don’t give a damn about what you did. The majority that pretend they do care just want to know your combat experience. Most, not all 4 year degrees are worthless if you get into the trades. If you do go to school be prepared to be in class with a bunch of children. Once you do get a job, be prepared to be at the bottom level.

[@stephmo371]

Unless you get out with a degree, you better start applying to shitty min wage jobs. Most MOS' don't translate well enough to be hired by civ employers. Transitioning out sucked and the only path i had was to go back to school on the gi bill in order to to even be paid enough to not live check by check. I'm comfortable now but it took me 10 years to finally get to where my non mil peers were already 5 years established into their careers. It's hard sometimes being older than than your supervisor.

[@chetmacdonald9009]

Most people don’t like. #GettingInto Gunfights. Ello friends.

[@nopenope4614]

GO TO MEDICAL

[@LIFEwithBAVAN]

Wait until they see how the VA works lol.

[@csucujo]

Just stay in and suck it up, oorah.

[@Daniel-gu6ut]

Hell nah

[@TorquePerformanceGa]

every branch has this for years, this story is pointless

[@kikimaamouri4661]

No No No

[@notgay5859]

It ain’t easy boys! Especially what no one talks about is the vets that get out from a failed UA, if you are getting out after being titled by CID or whatever the corps calls it, you’ll be treated like a felony! Good luck bois.