Retirement - It will be here quicker than you think

  • Published
  • By Maj. William Norton
  • 60th Mission Support Squadron commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Have you thought seriously about retirement? If you are like most active duty members, you think retirement is "a long way off" or "I'll worry about that when I apply." However, if you wait until you submit your retirement application, you are already behind.

Last week, I had the distinct honor of attending the retirement ceremony for Master Sgt. Larry Chagnon, a well-respected SNCO in the 60th Mission Support Squadron who served his country for 22 years. Earlier that week Sergeant Chagnon shared with me what he realized after attending his four-day Transition Assistance Program workshop saying, "I wish I would have started this two years ago."

Coincidentally, the Department of Defense recommends that you start your planning and preparations two years prior to retirement!

Retirement planning means you'll face tough decisions - including where you and your family will live. Consider your family's wishes, as well as career opportunities, cost of living, and quality of life issues such as climate, crime rates, schools and colleges. Do you want to live near a military installation or near your Reserve unit? Thinking carefully and exploring options will help you make the best choice.

Other choices will be around job search. This part can be the most stressful aspect of transition. It may begin with the question, "What should I do when I get out?" And, you may also begin hearing that voice inside asking, "What opportunities are out there? Where will I fit in? How do I conduct a job search, build a resume, interview or negotiate salary?"

Then, when you're not thinking about job search, you may be wondering about the many benefits you've earned while serving. And, whether you'll miss out on important ones by not knowing what exists or the timing and how to apply.

Thankfully, you can address these and other important retirement concerns by attending the mandatory pre-separation counseling and signing up for the four-day TAP workshop.

Here at Travis, we are fortunate to have one of the best TAP Programs in the DoD located in the Airmen and Family Readiness Center. The TAP Program received an "Outstanding" rating in last month's Unit Compliance Inspection. Experienced staff members stand ready to provide you and your spouse with the information and tools necessary for a smooth and effective transition from military to civilian life. Yes, that's right - your spouse, too. Military spouses make significant career sacrifices along the way and they are assured transition services, as well.

But you have to give yourself and your family the gift of time and get started early.

The worst thing you can do is procrastinate; take the advice of Sergeant Chagnon and the many others who waited too long - get started early! For more information, contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center at 424-2486.