Veterans say many of them struggle to find work after military life

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- Transitioning to civilian jobs can be challenging for many people leaving the military. A Pew Research study from 2019 found that only 1in 4 service members had a job lined up once they left the military. People in the Sandhills say it's an issue that continues to affect veterans.

Grilley Mitchell said it's at times been a bumpy road finding employment -- and his place in the world -- since he retired from the military more than 30 years ago. He said volunteering for initiatives for the homeless such as the Alms House and serving with the Cumberland County Veterans Council keeps him busy now. But in years past, he said his background as a veteran didn't feel welcome in some workplaces.

"Bottom line, this was the attitude: I don't care what you did out there in the military. Over here, we do things completely different," Mitchell said. "And when you get that type of attitude, the first thing that comes to your mind is: I have a wealth or a plethora of experience that your organization needs."