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Warrior Care Month: Reintegration

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

What is it?

The 2014 Warrior Care Month observance continues with this week’s theme, “Show Your Strength through Reintegration.” Reintegration means a number of things for wounded, ill and injured Soldiers. Some rejoin their unit or reintegrate back into the force in a new capacity, while others reintegrate back into civilian life upon leaving their Warrior Transition Unit (WTU).

What has the Army done?

Each Soldier in a WTU creates a Comprehensive Transition Plan (CTP) which includes career goals, whether the Soldier is transitioning back to the force or to civilian life. Soldiers returning to the force can participate in Army training for their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and career-oriented programs, whether they return to their original MOS or transition to a new role. Those separating from the force prepare for the civilian workforce by preparing for college, taking college classes, earning certifications and participating in professional internships at federal agencies. WTU Soldiers who are transitioning out of the Army also participate in Soldier for Life briefings, including workshops on writing federal and civilian resumes, interviewing skills, and other elements of joining the civilian workforce.

As of June 2014, 77 percent of eligible WTU Soldiers were participating in career and employment readiness activities. Eligibility is based on the individual Soldier’s medical and transition situation.

More than 500 WTU Soldiers have completed internships through Operation Warfighter (OWF), a DoD program designed to allow recovering service members from all branches to intern at local federal agencies. Soldiers build professional experience, develop stronger networks and enhance their understanding of the civilian workforce.

What does the Army have planned for the future?

WTU Soldiers who are transitioning out of the Army will continue to work with the Soldier for Life program to access transition resources prior to their separation and actively work towards career goals in their recovery plans, as their medical situation allows. The Army will also continue to support Career and Education Readiness programs for WTU Soldiers, allowing them to prepare for or remain competitive in their respective career fields or MOS during their recovery.

Why is this important to the Army?

Regardless of whether they return to the force or transition to civilian life, Soldiers represent the Army wherever they go. Helping Soldiers prepare for the next phase of their careers after becoming wounded, ill or injured enables them to become proud, productive citizens who contribute to society, benefitting themselves, their Families, the Army and the entire nation.

Resources:

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