When people leave the military, they often move to civilian communities. This is a big change for many service members, especially those who have built close bonds with their crews. Readjusting to civilian life can be difficult, and it may take time for those in the process of transitioning to find a group of friends that understands the unique rigors and rewards of military service. Civilian communities can be found through professional organizations, church groups, and community centers. In addition, there are online communities dedicated to veterans and active duty personnel.
There are also differences in structure and schedules between civilian and military life. Civilians tend to have more flexibility in their schedules and can often make their own decisions about how they want to spend their day. This can be a positive thing, but it also means that civilians must learn to balance their own needs with the demands of their work and family.
The term “civilian” also has a specific meaning at the level of policymaking. In this sense, it refers to particular individuals who occupy positions that give them guidance and oversight of the military services and defense enterprise. This includes members of the National Security Council, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and Congress with its relevant committees. Civilians who are in these roles have important responsibilities, but they also face certain limitations when it comes to their ability to oppose policies that they think are unwise or misguided.
The difference between civilians and combatants is an important one for understanding the law of armed conflict. In general, international humanitarian law accords special protection to civilians who do not participate in hostilities. This distinction is not as clear-cut as it might seem, however, because there are some non-state armed groups that do participate in hostilities on a permanent basis, but international law has yet to decide how to treat them.
A common issue for those who are readjusting to civilian life is adjusting their financial situation. There are a number of things that service members should consider before leaving the military, including allowances and special pay, to get a better idea of what they will actually be making on a regular paycheck. This can help them avoid any surprises when it comes to their paycheck and budgeting for the future. For example, some service members may be surprised to discover that their basic housing allowance doesn’t include utilities in the cost of rent. Taking the time to calculate how much they will be paying per month for their home can help them plan accordingly. This will save them money on their monthly bills and avoid any surprises down the road. Also, knowing how much they are receiving in benefits can help them compare civilian salaries to their military salary and make an informed decision about which career path is best for them.