After 23 years of service in the Navy, the idea of transitioning to civilian life felt both thrilling and daunting. The structured, regimented world of the military was all we had known for over two decades. When the time came to retire, We knew we needed a soft landing to recalibrate and ease ourselves into this new chapter. That’s why we are so grateful we were able to “mooch dock” with Stephanie’s parents and Folkston, Georgia, became our haven for nearly six months.

The Beauty of Folkston

Nestled in Charlton County, Folkston is a small, charming town with a rich history and a welcoming community. Known as the gateway to the Okefenokee Swamp, this quaint town provided the perfect backdrop for my transition. The serene environment, combined with the genuine hospitality of its residents, made it an ideal place to begin my post-Navy life.

Mooch docking, essentially staying on a friend or family member’s property with an RV, allowed us to remain stationary and grounded during this period. It offered a unique blend of independence and connection, providing both solitude and community. Our hosts, fellow patriots and veterans, understood the nuances of military life and its challenges, offering a support system that was both comforting and essential.

Vital Family Time

One of the most heartwarming aspects of this period was the opportunity it provided for our daughter, Addison, to spend quality time with her grandparents. In our fast-paced military life, extended family time had often been a rare luxury. Folkston changed that.

Addison embraced farm life with enthusiasm, helping her grandparents with various tasks and immersing herself in the daily rhythms of rural living. This time was invaluable not just for her personal growth but for building cherished memories and strong family bonds. Watching her work alongside her grandparents, learning about responsibility and the joys of simple living, was a beautiful sight. The experience enriched her life in ways that city living and our transient military lifestyle never could.

Navigating the VA Disability Claim Process

The most critical task we faced during this time was completing the VA disability claim. The process, known for its complexity and extensive paperwork, can be overwhelming. Being stationary in Folkston proved invaluable for several reasons:

1. Consistency in Appointments: The VA claim process requires numerous medical evaluations and appointments. Being in one location allowed me to schedule and attend these without the disruptions of travel. Folkston’s proximity to Jacksonville, FL with VA facilities ensured I had access to the necessary healthcare services.
2. Stable Environment: The mental and emotional stability of staying in one place cannot be overstated. The stress of moving around while managing a significant life transition can hinder the ability to focus on important tasks like the VA claim. Folkston provided a peaceful, stable environment where I could concentrate on my health and paperwork.

A few tips for any veterans getting ready to go through the process:

1. Go to VA.gov and look at the schedule: After an entire career, you may have forgotten about certain things that happened to you along the way, or that still bother you because they are a part of your daily life. By going through the schedule of conditions listed on the VA website, this will help you jog your memory.
2. Diagnosis/Nexus: The most important aspect to any medical claim is having the diagnosis in writing from a doctor. For example, if you have shoulder pain, that will not necessarily be good enough, it must be an actual diagnosed condition. The nexus just ties the condition to military service.
3. Documentation: Make sure your military health record is in tip-top shape before you submit your claim. Don’t forget to include any significant or pertinent civilian health records that are relevant to your case.
4. Claim Everything from head to toe: A lot of times we veterans tend to feel that we don’t need, or deserve, compensation for our conditions. I’m here to tell you that you do DESERVE compensation. The military got everything out of you during your service, now it is time for you to get yours.

The Importance of Being Stationary

Being stationary during this period was crucial. It allowed us to establish a routine, build a new network, and focus on our well-being. The consistency helped us address both the logistical and emotional aspects of transitioning from military to civilian life.

Reflection and Growth

Our time in Folkston was more than just a practical decision; it was a period of reflection and growth. The slower pace of life, the natural beauty of the Okefenokee Swamp, and the warm-hearted people we met contributed to a healing environment. We found solace in nature, spent time reconnecting with ourselves and each other, and began to envision our future beyond the Navy.

In conclusion, our six months of mooch docking in Folkston, Georgia, were a pivotal part of our retirement journey. It provided a soft landing, essential for adjusting to civilian life and successfully navigating the VA disability claim process. For Addison, it was a precious time of bonding with her grandparents and experiencing the joys of farm life. For anyone facing a similar transition, finding a stable, supportive environment can make all the difference. Folkston will always hold a special place in our hearts, as the community that helped us find our footing in a new world.