Returning Troops Face Uncertain Job Market

With the proposed reduction of troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, currently numbering over 140,000, one has to wonder what awaits our returning veterans. Facing a floundering economy coupled with an abysmal job market, high unemployment rates and slim job prospects. It will be challenging at best for most of our returning soldiersUS Troops Home.
It was anticipated that public safety sector jobs would be waiting. For our heroes to take the place of retiring first responders, police officers and firemen. As annual salaries of these positions approach and even exceed $100,000 a year, in many cases with generous lifelong pensions and benefits to follow, it's not surprising the current work force doesn't plan on relinquishing these jobs anytime soon.

Corporate cost cutting includes layoffs, job elimination and early retirement to maintain profitability and sustain business. Gainful employment and hiring of a younger workforce has fallen below expectations, evidenced by growing numbers of college graduates unable to find work. We see a market flooded with jobseekers that have been furloughed or downsized and those entering the workforce.

Add returning military personnel to the job-seeking market tends to suggest an ominous forecast for their prospects. What are some of the factors enabling the calamity looming on the horizon and how do we fix it ?

Companies and unions donate millions of dollars to political campaigns, yet are unable or unwilling to hire workers or make concessions. Inequitable pay scales to upper-tier corporate and union positions versus line workers and middle management compensation. Spending on non-essential government programs and Federal agencies based in Washington that would be better served at the State level. Something has gone fundamentally wrong with the administration of the American process for these events to occur.

Proposed solutions need be embraced and adopted quickly by both public and private sector alike to get America working and ensure our returning service members have job security and a bright future.