U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard Soldiers line up to eat breakfast in the field, Fort Hunter-Liggett, California. (Photo: U.S. Army Master Sgt. Michel Sauret)
The American Legion HQ reported that the organization submitted written testimony to Congress, stressing the need for the U.S. Department of Defense’s Transition Assistance Program, TAP, to evolve and modernize in ways that best support Service Members and their families as they transition to civilian life. This testimony was filed prior to the March 25 hearing of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, titled “Mission Incomplete: Strengthening the TAP Program to Ensure a Smoother Transition to Civilian Life for Tomorrow’s Veterans.”
Andrew T. Petrie, Senior Policy Associate in the Veterans Employment & Education Division, submitted The American Legion’s Statement for the Record. He stated that TAP plays a crucial role in maintaining the Department of Defense’s mission by preparing Service Members for successful reintegration into society. He pointed out that force readiness requirements often take precedence, preventing Service Members from fully completing TAP. This lack of participation can lead to Veterans facing challenges post-service.
Petrie referenced a December 2022 U.S. Government Accountability Office, GAO, report that identified issues within TAP. The report found that 22% of Service Members in the program’s third tier did not attend or complete the required two-day career track segment, while 70% failed to begin TAP counseling at least a year before separation. Delayed participation significantly shortens the time available to learn about post-service programs, apply for benefits, and prepare for civilian life. Difficult transitions could also influence how friends and family perceive military service.
To address these challenges, Petrie stressed the need for TAP to modernize. Transitioning from military to civilian life is not a uniform process, and TAP must adapt to meet the diverse needs of all Service Members, including those in the National Guard and Reserves.
He also discussed resources outside TAP, particularly the VA’s Military Life Cycle, MLC, modules. These 14 sessions cover topics such as VA education benefits, Community Integration Resources, and VA home loans. Offered both in-person and online, they provide flexibility in accessing critical information. Petrie stated that MLC modules remain underutilized and should be promoted more effectively.
To improve accessibility, Petrie urged congressional support for a TAP mobile app. He explained that such an app could offer on-demand, transition-related content, allowing Service Members to personalize their experience. He cautioned that development should be approached thoughtfully, incorporating input from interagency partners, community organizations, and Veterans Service Organizations like The American Legion.
Petrie also addressed the need for an alternative TAP pathway tailored to National Guard and Reserve members. These Service Members often face unique transition challenges, such as rapidly shifting between deployment and civilian employment. Providing targeted resources and warm handoffs to federal agencies could better support them in their transition.
In support of his testimony, Petrie referenced multiple American Legion resolutions related to TAP: Resolution No. 100: Accountability of the Department of Defense’s Transition Assistance Program, Resolution No. 13: Transition Assistance Program App, and Resolution No. 81: Transition Assistance Program Employment Workshops for National Guard and Reserve Members.
The American Legion continues to advocate for an improved TAP that meets the evolving needs of all Service Members, ensuring they are well-prepared for life after military service.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
