Thousands of Veterans Face Job Losses in Pentagon Workforce Cuts

The Pentagon is set to reduce its civilian workforce by as much as 8%, which could affect tens of thousands of veterans employed by the Department of Defense (DOD). A senior defense official has confirmed that as many as 60,000 civilian jobs may be cut as part of a cost-saving initiative to concentrate resources on "more mission-critical functions."

As of fiscal year 2021, the DOD employed over 330,000 veterans, accounting for 45.8% of the department’s civilian workforce, as reported by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The precise number of veterans experiencing job loss is uncertain, yet the potential consequences are considerable. Should reductions be implemented proportionally, more than 32,000 veterans may be impacted.

“Some veterans will be affected by the workforce reductions,” a senior defense official remarked, although they chose not to disclose specific numbers.

The Pentagon's hiring freeze adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The department has suspended hiring about 6,000 new civilian employees each month. It is terminating approximately 5,400 probationary employees, although this action is currently in legal disputes.

Almost 21,000 civilian employees have chosen to participate in the Deferred Resignation Program, permitting voluntary exits by September 30. The DOD highlights that layoffs are determined by mission priorities, rather than aimed at veterans.

Even with reassurances, worries are increasing about the departure of experienced personnel in essential defense operations and the wider economic effects on military families.

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