A civilian is a person who is not a member of the military or any other uniformed forces. The term is also used to refer to a person who is not employed by the government, either as a paid employee or volunteer.
Civilians play a critical role in the military, and their expertise complements that of professional military advice. The etymology of the word “civil” is uncertain, but it is generally accepted that the meaning of the term has evolved over time. In the past, it may have referred to a group of individuals occupying a specific position in a policymaking body, such as the National Security Council or Congress with its relevant committees. Today, it is more likely to be a broad reference to the broader population of individuals who contribute to decisionmaking in the defense and national security realms.
While there are some overlaps between military and civilian life, there are many differences. One of the most significant is financial. The military offers a variety of financial assistance programs for housing, education, healthcare and savings, while civilian jobs rarely provide these types of benefits.
Moving to a civilian job may also mean changing schools and community. This can be difficult for children, and it is important to take the time to find a school that is the best fit for your child. Transitioning service members also face the challenge of finding a civilian home that meets their needs, and this process can be complicated by the fact that civilian housing options often differ from those available on bases.
Another difference is that civilians are not subject to military law, even if they work on a base or are living in a military-run location. However, they must still obey all civilian laws and follow the rules and codes of conduct that apply to their location. Civilians are also not allowed to engage in certain activities, including drug trafficking and online sex crimes.
The final difference between civilian and military life is that civilians tend to have a broader range of career opportunities. They are able to pursue educational and personal goals with the support of their families, friends and employers. Depending on their field of work, they can also benefit from a wide variety of educational and training programs. This enables them to build skills that can be easily transferred to other positions and careers. Civilians can also gain experience in a range of different areas, including public relations, budgeting and the management of complex institutions. This can be valuable experience in the context of making decisions on a national scale. However, it is important to remember that just as a military officer cannot suddenly transform into a politician, a civilian can’t become a military leader overnight. Each requires a different type of training and experience.