Although the principles of the Ethos – placing the mission first, never accepting defeat, never quitting and never leaving a fallen comrade – were written for our men and women in uniform, its utility is not limited to military service. The Warrior Ethos is relevant in all walks of life.

PUTTING THE ETHOS INTO PERSPECTIVE

• The military-to-civilian transition is challenging.
• The greatest barrier to transition: the cultural and communication gap that exists between the military and the people whom they serve.

We veterans lived by the Warrior Ethos. During our service, the organization, its success and its survival were more important than our own individual ambitions, goals and survival.

• We relied on perimeters to stay safe, secure and survive.

• We trusted others to do their part and communicate when they needed help – even when we could not see, hear or touch them.

• We entrusted our comrades to provide “buddy aide” when needed or have us evacuated for advanced care.

• And the strong personal connections we formed were essential for the perimeter to work.

Transition challenges are exacerbated when immersed in this foreign operating environment; it can be painful and somewhat debilitating.

• We may perceive a lack of “perimeters,” and therefore a lack of reasons to form strong personal connections.

• The private sector can often appear more focused on the individual and their independence – more competitive rather than collaborative – and political correctness is expected over candor.

• Non-veteran coworkers may perceive veterans to be too rigid, overly confident and excessively dedicated to the organization’s mission.

You may never close the cultural and communication gap completely, but you can reduce its effects:

• Make finding military-friendly companies one of your “Top 10” needs.

• Build your own perimeter by connecting with other veterans in your workplace, neighborhood or community, then actively participate in veteran advocacy programs and initiatives.

• Educate non-veterans on your language and culture; not to convert them, but to help eliminate any preconceived biases as you acclimate to your new operating environment.

• Leverage your military skills and experiences within your new company culture for the greater good.

• Coach, teach and mentor others attempting the military-to-civilian transition.

R. Lee Ermy once said, “Everyone thinks that the VA takes care of veterans. No. Not true. Veterans take care of veterans!”