1. MILITARY FRIENDLY, THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN AWARD AND A COMMITMENT

2. UNITED STATES MILITARY

3. REASONS THEY SERVE Love of country, patriotism Family Tradition Income Educational Benefits Travel Adventure

4. WHY THEY RETURN TO CIVILIAN LIFE Retirement Medical issues Completion of enlistment Family Employment opportunities Involuntarily separated/ troop reductions

6. OBSTACLES UPON SEPARATION Unemployment Loss of team concept Unfamiliar schedule Unrealistic expectations Relationships Finances Less support structure

8. EMOTIONS Excitement Joy Fear Anxiety Doubt Out of place

10. OPPORTUNITIES Reconnecting New career challenges Educational assistance Healthcare Non-profit memberships

12. WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP Reach out and connect Be an active listener Build trust Provide resources Make them feel needed

14. CONTACT INFO Kevin Flanary Director of Military and Veteran Affairs TN Tech University kflanary@tntech.edu