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Everything posted by diesel_3
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Off-loading a little bit here: I have been out of the Army since 2011. I have bounced around from industry to industry ever since. Even going back to school (Social Services). I cannot find a job, nor do I feel like I belong anywhere else other than something military or paramiliitary. I have an opportunity for an air force position (reservist, but essentially full time work), same rank when I got out, just a different trade/element. I have been informed that I would probably have to do BMQ (Basic Military Qualification) again, which is sort of wild to me. I successfully passed in 2006 (even won Top Shot out of 60 recruits), soldier qualification, trade qualification, even a deployment overseas. I spent my 21st birthday on the range in Farnham in 2006. I am turning 38 next month. I am flip-flopping back and forth...Could I do it again? I have slowly turned myself back into a machine and almost back down to my football/hockey playing weight. I think the mind melter for me is having my DEUs hanging in the closet with my tour medal, while getting jacked up by a 25 year old MCpl who is still wet behind the ears. The new course is now only 8 weeks and it's totally revamped, seems like they are really trying to change everything in the current military, so it would definitely not be as 'harsh' as when I went through, but i'm sure you can still appreciate the conundrum.
TL;DR: Veteran looking to re-enlist. Certain barriers seem like they might be too hard to overcome. Imagine doing a degree, then 20 years later saying it 'expired' and you had to take the same courses again. Would be strange!
Thanks for reading!
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@PhillipBlunt Thanks, man...I truly appreciate it! Feels like a lifetime ago and almost a completely different person from when I was in!
@smithers joeThanks, Joe...When people ask, I would always say I regret getting out, I had just wished I picked a better trade. Army was great for being young and in my 20s but long-term sustainability, Air Force is definitely the better play. I would have about 4 months of total training before I wouldn't have to do anything for awhile, and that would all be within my first few years. I think it's more of a guilt thing, too. Leaving my toddler at home while Dad is running around playing Army at BMQ. It's wild how things can come full circle. I'm afraid of a little hard work these days, I suppose. My wife keeps saying short term pain for long term gain and I suppose *whispers* she's right.
@Citizen Erased Great perspective! I have never thought of it that way. These last 12.5 years I have never made a 'friend' as close to the ones I had when I was in the Army. Sad part is, when everyone release, much like pro sports, they go back to their respective cities and towns across Canada and you don't really hear from them anymore. I DO miss that commaraderie, which is why I love/miss team sports so much. I could even get back into playing hockey and try out for the senior men's base team (35+).
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There’s a reason the military is called a band of brothers. You may not miss fighting in a war, but rather the camaraderie that comes along with being a tight knit group of people over an extended of time, exactly like athletes who compete in team sports. I hear this often from former athletes. They acknowledged that they might not be able to compete anymore or hate travelling so much, but miss being around the guys. If you can join a hockey team, I would highly recommend it. Even if you were terrible and a benchwarmer, just being around could help fill that void. I’m sure you’re not terrible though and would see plenty of ice time. Lastly, like others have said, thank you for your service to our country and may you enjoy the next chapter of your life!
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The job market is tough right now since the pandemic and especially during the summer. I was laid off last year and this year as well.
During the pandemic I saved like crazy knowing that being laid off could happen and it did, twice.
When things happen that are not great, like being laid off, I look at the positives. The last layoff occurred in June. I had the opportunity to sleep in, focus on looking for work, and enjoy the summer. I am starting a new position soon, and have been taking the last few weeks since the job offer to enjoy my time off. I am going over to Victoria on Saturday, went to Vancouver last week, was out to lunch yesterday, and today - I am going to clean my apartment and listen to Pulp!
You will find what is perfect for you. Trust me!