OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE -- Retiring from the military is something many service members start preparing for years in advance. There are many considerations, and each person’s decisions depend on their personal situations and circumstances. A variety of resources is available to military personnel to help them plan for the future.
The U.S. Strategic Command’s Senior Noncommissioned Officer Association hosted a joint service professional development event in November. The “Let’s Talk Retirement” presentation was open to all service members on the verge of retirement.
Attendees heard from base agencies and guest speakers who provided information on retirement and gave firsthand accounts about the obstacles they faced when they were retiring. Bill Good from the Offutt Education Office started the morning off with a summary of what his office offers to people approaching retirement.
Guest speaker retired Army Sgt. Maj. Michael Quinn (LinkedIn Top Voice two times) spoke on the benefits of using LinkedIn for networking and job or career searching.
“The hardest part for most people during transitioning into retirement is connecting with other people,” said Quinn.
A panel including former 55th Wing Command Chief, Chief Master Sgt, Michael Thomas, convened after the individual presentations to offer insight into transitioning from active duty to civilian life.
“I view my work helping to transition military members and military families move into the next season of their life as a passion project,” said Thomas. “I’m proud of the work that USSTRATCOM, the 55th Wing and the Omaha metro area are doing in putting resources and actions behind their statements of wanting to help smooth out this milestone transition.”
Master Sgt. JaiaVeralea Upchurch, superintendent of the Airman and Family Readiness Center, is retiring soon.
“I’m so grateful to have been a part of this event,” said Upchurch. “It has changed the trajectory of my transition. I feel more confident about my military afterlife.”
Contact the Offutt Airman & Family Readiness Center at 402-294-4329 for assistance in retirement planning.