Just got of the military... options?

Welcome to TTR, and thanks for your service.

I flew A-10s from 2001-2006 in the PA Air Guard, and stayed in when we got BRAC'd in 2005...I do a REMF job now, but I've got another 5 to my 20, so what the hey.

My first question is: have you considered staying in the USMC Reserves, or jumping over to the Air Guard in your state or somewhere you might want to move to?

You've got 5 in...15 more is going to go by in the blink of an eye. Trust me.

My Guard gig has been a source of stable income in times of trouble with my primary gigs (whether airline or corporate flying, or as an owner/operator) and I've been able to make up drills to make extra money when needed, or volunteer for extra TADs (we call them TDYs in the Chair Force) if necessary.

Just something to think about.

As far as trucking - most of the company paid-for schools are a rip off. They contract with a school for X amount of dollars, then take out of your pay X dollars PLUS a little more...you're better off saving up, paying for school yourself, and then finding a good company to drive for.

I would recommend finding a smaller company that appreciates your service and is willing to give a new driver with motivation, dedication, and most importantly has a safety-conscious mindset and is reliable. You will be much happier at a company that values their employees vs. one of the larger 'steering wheel holder mill' (think of a puppy mill for truckers) companies.

Wish you all the best, good luck, God Bless, and Semper Fi.

 

I don't know your location but in nj they will give you the license by showing proof of service and passing the knowledge test. it will give you more flexibility when it comes to looking for a company!

 

I def would have stayed in and retired if possible, I would have stayed had I not gotten blown off a roof and messed up my back and ended up medically retired. The extra income from the VA or retirement is handy though either way. As far as trucking goes, if your heart is set on it then I would def save up money or use the gi bill to get your CDL from a reputable school as company sponsored training isn't very good.

 

Are you in the TAMP program for tricare? I'm asking to see if your worried about health care options. If you are you might want to check out going into the reserves. Since you were in the marines you wouldn't have to do any other branches basic. The one weekend a month would be enough to cover the tricares monthly payment, and as a back up you can go into a ART (active reserve technician) spot just in case.
As far as the license it's up to the state. I was going to try going that route but my only vehicle experience in the Air Force has been tow vehicles towing planes so I used the post 9/11 to pay for my schooling. Some trucking companies do the Apprenticeship program. It's through the VA using your GI bill, it pays you your BAH while you drive instead of taking classes. Most companies do only one year but I know roehl does 2 years.
Company wise you should look into what you'd like to haul. I signed onto roehl to do flatbed cause I would like to get out of the truck as much as possible. There's a list of companies that hire new drivers in the main forum. Hope this helps.

 

Long time US Army vet..OIF/OEF
Two things...one I shredded my VA medical card...they can have that crap. Worst health care ever...
Now to your question....
When I got out in 05 for combat injuries I had never planned that one day I might be a civi again.... I had paid into the GI Bill and short of getting some expensive government loan or working for one of these copy and paste cheap freight companies which will really stick it to you..in more ways than one. Use that GI Bill money. Some schools give a reduced rate to war vets like mine did....

 

Thank you for your service everyone. I hate to disagree with Lonewarrior, but I am getting fantastic healthcare from the Boston area VA.Maybe it's different in other parts of the country?, But I have no complaints, so check it out for yourself.

 

You would only be using 2 months of benefits....you would have 34 left. I retired last year, GIB paid my schooling at Smith Solomon, and am going to school online with the rest of it now. PM me if you need more info...as a vet with a busted up back, like me, dry van with no touch freight is your best opt...I chose tankers...some hose lifting, but its good exercise for my crooked spine. Stay away from local p/d and flatbeds!