In this dynamic episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic kick off 2025 discussing everything from New Year's reflections to crucial veteran updates. They delve into the recent Supreme Court ruling that expands GI Bill benefits to 48 months for veterans with multiple periods of service [04:35 ], a game-changer for over a million veterans.

The conversation then shifts to the fascinating world of national security with special guest David Van Bennekum, a retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel, lawyer, and author of the self-help book "Searching for True Community." Dave shares his incredible journey from infantry officer to logistics expert, and the challenging path of attending law school while on active duty [18:12 ]. He offers unique insights into making complex topics like national security accessible to everyone, emphasizing the importance of informed dialogue and the balance between government transparency and security [39:07 ].

This episode also covers practical aspects of military retirement, including:

The impact of potential government shutdowns on VA benefits [15:07 ].

Personal stories and advice on making the retirement decision [06:29 ], managing debt before leaving service [10:56 ], and the importance of financial planning with tools like the TSP [01:01:24 ].

A candid comparison of working as a DoD contractor versus a GS employee [48:00 ], highlighting the cultural differences and challenges in federal hiring (USAJOBS) [01:07:48 ].

Innovative military talent acquisition programs like the Marine Corps' "recruit to gunny" for cyberspace warfare [32:14 ] and the Army's "High School to Flight School" for warrant officer pilots [41:59 ].

Discussions on international travel, immersing in local cultures, and helpful resources for retired military members looking to explore the world [01:10:01 ].

Key Timestamps:

[04:35 ] Discussion on the Supreme Court ruling expanding GI Bill benefits to 48 months.

[09:57 ] Introduction of guest David Van Bennekum, retired Marine LtCol, lawyer, and author.

[11:21 ] Dave shares his 20-year Marine Corps career and educational journey.

[15:07 ] Impact of government shutdowns on veteran benefits.

[18:12 ] Dave's demanding experience attending law school while on active duty.

[27:27 ] The inspiration and process behind writing "Searching for True Community."

[32:14 ] Discussion on Marine Corps' "recruit to gunny" talent acquisition program.

[39:07 ] Blurring lines between government transparency and national security.

[41:59 ] Army's "High School to Flight School" program for warrant officer pilots.

[48:00 ] Experiences transitioning from military to DOD contractor to GS employee.

[01:01:24 ] Financial planning for retirement, debt, and TSP.

[01:10:01 ] Discussions on international travel and cultural immersion.

[01:16:26 ] Introduction to the Nomadico Substack for travel tips.

[01:22:35 ] Where to find Dave Van Den Berg's book and connect with him.

Resources Mentioned:

David Van Bennekum's Book: "Searching for True Community" https://amzn.to/4mOdNat

David Van Bennekum's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dvanbennekum/

Military Retirement Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/themilitaryretirementgroup

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): For information on GI Bill benefits and other veteran services.

Nomadico Substack: For travel tips and information on living abroad: https://nomadico.substack.com/

The full episode can be found here: How America’s National Security System Actually Works

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