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The Country is Open, But Are Military Families Going Out?

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States around the country have begun to reopen businesses. Tourist attractions and lodging are also starting to come to life. But are military families going out?

The Country is Open, But Are Military Families Going Out?

Based on our unofficial survey, military families are overwhelmingly playing it safe even as local communities are starting to reopen.

In our survey, 157 military families replied. They were asked a series of questions about their habits during the pandemic, the impact on summer plans and what they will (or will not) be doing to stay healthy.

Military Families Opt for Caution

Of those surveyed, 84.7% indicated that they had or were going to cancel or change summer plans. In addition, 96.8% of respondents indicated that they had changed their normal habits as the result of coronavirus infections in the US.

Only 3.2% of those survey shared that they had continued life as normal.

“We don’t go anywhere really except to get groceries and takeout,” shared one military spouse.

Another noted that they do not socialize with anyone right now.

Many of those surveyed noted that they had previously been very socially active, but that the pandemic had radically changed their lives.

“We used to have weekly game nights with friends, go out once a week, and go to amusement parks or museums once a month,” shared a military spouse.

Others have noted that they are spending a lot more time at home lately, organizing family game nights or ordering takeout.

An Abundance of Caution & Cancellations

Many in the military community seem to be using local guideline as one reason to stick closer to home, with 52.2% responding. An additional 56.7% cited infection rates with 26.8% noting death rates as causes for remaining at home.

In addition, many respondents noted that events had been outright canceled.

One person noted that a wedding they had planned to attend was called off by the venue.

Others noted pregnancy or young children as a concern that curtailed their normal activities as a result of COVID-19.

In addition, some noted concerns with distance learning, extended school year, quarantine periods and the lack of effective coronavirus treatments as factoring into their decision making process.

Outdoor Activities Favored This Summer

Military families seem willing to break self-isolation, but only to spend time in controlled outdoor environments.

Outdoor restaurants were preferred, with 63% of respondents indicating that they would likely eat-in places with this option. However, 50% of those surveyed said that they would be unlikely to eat inside at restaurants.

Other places high on the list of options for summer fun include:

  • beaches: 76% likely
  • nature trails or hiking: 91% likely
  • playgrounds: 44.5%
  • pools: 49%
Photo Credit: ©_jure /Adobe Stock

Military families are unsure if they would be willing to visit libraries.

Some options received overwhelming negative answers. These include:

  • bars with indoor seating: 76% unlikely
  • bars with outdoor seating: 53.5% unlikely
  • restaurants with indoor seating: 50.9% unlikely
  • museums: 49% unlikely
  • theme parks: 72.6% unlikely
  • water parks: 73.2% unlikely

Military Families are Taking Precautions to Stay Healthy

Military families are largely in favor of taking recommended precautions to stay safe. Face masks are being used by 70.7% of respondents with 71.3% maintaining at least 6 feet of distance. 44.6% of families are limited interactions with non-immediate family members and 24.2% are limiting trips outside the home to necessities only.

However, 5.1% of those who took the survey indicated that they were taking no precautions.

Other ways that military families are staying safe include:

  • increased hand washing
  • using hand sanitizer more frequently
  • opting for take-out or delivery
  • limiting interactions generally

Very Different Summer Plans in 2020

Military families are noting the changes to summer plans for 2020. Many are noting the lack of summer vacation travel as well as limited or alternative camps for kids.

“We were planning on going to Maine this summer but regulations in the state prohibit visiting without 14 day quarantine,” one person responded.

Others noted that even local options, like playgrounds and water parks, were not available this summer.

“We had to cancel a vacation planned for June,” one military spouse explained. “There is also a water park down the road that we usually go to on the weekends that isn’t opening at all this summer.”

In addition to recreational travel, many families have had to alter their PCS plans this summer.

“Our PCS was delayed a month and my husband cant take leave to travel for the move,” one military spouse said. “He has to report to new duty station within 4 days of leaving current station.”

Others noted that even on-schedule PCSes were changed.

“We were originally planning a three week long cross country move,” shared one military spouse. “Staying at multiple national parks, visiting family, going to Canada, the whole spiel. Due to move restrictions and local restrictions that has been completely thrown out the window. Instead, we are now doing a straight shot across country as we are still moving in July. No side trips, no leave, just point a to point b in 8 days.”

Has your summer been impacted by the pandemic? Sound off and share your military family’s situation in the comments!

TRANSCOM Walks Back $7.2 Billion Privatized PCS Contract

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After tentatively awarding American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier Group (ARC) a $7.2 billion contract, US Transportation Command has walked back the agreement over recent allegations that are being reviewed.

This initial contract was to cover a 9-month transition period with a 3-year base period. However, with all options exercised, the total package could be worth $20 billion over 9 years.

TRANSCOM Walks Back $7.2 Billion Privatized PCS Contract

ARC was slated to begin the transition to managing all DOD PCS moves in May 2020, with full control achieved by 2022 worldwide. However, TRANSCOM notified the the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on June 9 that the contract had been pulled for review.

“An interested party has presented U.S. TRANSCOM with information that they believe should have been considered in the Global Household Goods Contract award decision. U.S. TRANSCOM intends to take corrective action to consider this new information, gather facts and conduct a review of the award,” according to a TRANSCOM statement.

Should the GAO approve the review, TRANSCOM “will review the entire evaluation record, to include reviewing the reported allegations along with gathering additional facts. We anticipate the corrective action to be complete in the coming weeks.”

This review comes after a 100 day delay as the GAO worked to review contract protests filed by two other moving companies, HomeSafe Alliance, LLC, and Connected Global Solutions, LLC. Both companies had lost the TRANSCOM contract, according to reporting by Military.com.

Privatization of PCS in Response to Military Family Advocacy

The move to privatize all PCS moves is in response to consistent advocacy by military families.

Military families have been protesting the increase in damage to household goods during the PCS process. In February 2019, said Army Col. Ralph Lounsbrough, personal property division chief in TRANSCOM’s strategy, capabilities, policy and logistics directorate, signaled his intention to allow the private sector to handle all military moves.

According to Lounsbrough, department of defense moves account for 20% of all domestic household moves.

“We think it would help with accountability and transparency, and ultimately we’re trying to make things better for the service members,” he said. “We know there are companies out there that have the ability to do that.”

Previously each move was handled individually, with separate contracts being awarded one household at a time.

According to numbers from 2017, there were 430,000 military moves that year with 40% of all DOD moves occurring in the summer.

Short Term Solutions Prior to 100% Privatization

While the TRANSCOM contract is in limbo, military families are still on the move. However, many PCS moves have been delayed due to the global pandemic. With the stop movement order lifted recently, military families should expect their moves to proceed with some adjustment.

Military PCS advocate Megan Harless recommends staying in frequent contact with your assigned move coordinator.

“If your move has started you should be assigned a move coordinator,” she explained. “They are designed to be your single point of contact during your move and give you updates on your assigned dates, weight, delivery, and any issues. If your move has not started or you cannot get a hold of your move coordinator, you can always call your local transportation office, or the TRANSCOM hotline for assistance.”

For additional information about your summer 2020 PCS, use the resources on move.mil or refer to the Joint Chiefs website. Both locations have accurate, up-to-date information regarding the 2020 PCS season.

What do you think about privatizing military moves? Sound off in the comments!

Safely Celebrating the 4th During the Pandemic

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Sure, the community fireworks displays and parades might need to be reconsidered this summer, but we can still safely celebrate the 4th of July in patriotic style!

Safely Celebrating the 4th of July During the Pandemic

For many, 4th of July means huge BBQ blowouts, fireworks and parades. This year, with the highly contagious pandemic still rolling through our communities, many of us are considering different ways to safely celebrate.

To help you stay safe while honoring America’s Independence Day, we’ve brainstormed a few options to get inspire you!

Backyard BBQ for Just You

Instead of hosting your entire neighborhood or unit for a massive party, keep the guest list smaller and more intimate. Perhaps consider limiting invites to your immediate family only or including one other family with whom you’ve been quaranteaming.

However, big or small your BBQ is in 2020, it’s still a great time to go all out!

Fire up the grill and cook:

  • burgers
  • hot dogs
  • ribs
  • chicken
  • corn
  • veggies

Go nautical with a seafood feast, including:

  • steamed clams, oysters, muscles
  • peel-and-eat shrimp
  • crayfish
  • crabs

Include yummy sides like:

  • chips and dips
  • veggie trays
  • corn on the cob
  • potato salad
  • pasta salad
  • fruit salad

Even though your celebration is slightly smaller this year, it’s no less patriotic!

Decorate & Celebrate the 4th Safely

There are no parades, but your home and yard can still get all decked out!

Consider flying a flag, putting out bunting or painting artistic fireworks for your windows with DIY window paint! Get your children involved in the process and talk about why we’re celebrating independence in America.

If you live in a location that allows sparklers, you might consider enjoying a few of them to light up the night. Remember to observe fireworks safety and closely monitor children.

Enjoying a small fire and roasting marshmallows is another great way to enjoy the 4th of July safely. Break out the s’mores supplies for an evening of fun together.

Watch a Patriotic Movie Marathon

Celebrate the 4th of July with film. There are tons of great movies out there that honor our fight for freedom or have ties to independence as a theme.

Check out this list:

  • The Patriot: the Mel Gibson Revolutionary War classic explores the ties between fathers and sons against the backdrop of 1776
  • Top Gun: there’s nothing like the sound of jets and competing for the top spot to honor our independence
  • The American President: watch a US president fall in love and navigate political upheaval
  • National Treasure: Nic Cage follows a treasure map on the back of the Declaration of Independence while evading the bad guys; make sure to watch the sequel, too!
  • Independence Day: Will Smith saves the US and world from alien invaders
  • Mr. Smith Goes to Washington: a Jimmy Stuart classic about an idealistic young politician in DC
  • Glory: the heroic actions of the 54th Massachusetts regiment in the Civil War are incredible
  • Gettysburg: in 1863, Confederate and Union troops “celebrated” by fighting over the future course of the US in this Civil War classic
  • Captain America: this superhero saves American troops, and the world, from Nazis and the forces of evil
  • A League of Their Own: during WW2 women played professional baseball, with Tom Hanks giving a home run performance as a troubled coach

Take a Virtual Trip to DC

Sure, you might not be going to the fireworks on the Mall this year, but you can still enjoy a capital fourth virtually!

For 40 years, PBS has held a concert and fireworks display on the National Mall on July 4. While this year’s celebration is canceled, you can watch videos of last year’s concert and fireworks online!

While you’re “in” DC, you could also take virtual tours of the monuments and memorials on the National Mall or pop in to a Smithsonian for a quick peek.

How is your family celebrating Independence Day during the current pandemic? Sound off in the comments!

Active, Retired Military Leaders Condemn Racism in Ranks as Protests Sweep US

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Protests supporting the Black Lives Matter movement and speaking out against racism have been sweeping across all 50 states and DC since late May. These protests were sparked by several recent deaths of Black Americans.

Now military leaders, both active and retired, have released statements and memos related to the protests, the political reactions in DC and military policies.

Recent Deaths of Black Americans Touch Off Nation-wide Protests Against Racism

George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis on May 25 seemed to be the final spark that initiated the current protests. Floyd, 46, was killed while in police custody when a white officer kneeled on his neck. Floyd, as seen in an 8 minute and 46 second video, repeatedly told the four officers involved that he couldn’t breathe before dying. All four officers have been fired and are being held on charges related to Floyd’s death.

This followed the March killing of Breonna Taylor, 27, a Nashville EMT, when police executed a no-knock warrant at her home. Ahmaud Arbery, 25, was hit by a truck and then shot while out on a jog in Glynn County, GA, in February.

Since late May, protests supporting anti-racism and Black Lives Matter have been organized across the US. From big cities to small towns, Americans are demonstrating and calling for systemic changes.

Protests have also been heavily filmed by demonstrators who are documenting their experiences and sharing them on social media. During these protests, police officers in several other cities have been suspended, fired or are being otherwise investigated for excessive force.

Retired Military Leaders Speak Out About Protests, Racism

Since the protests have begun, retired military leaders have published letters around the issue of racism and the White House’s response to protests.

Former Secretary of Defense General James Mattis, USMC ret., is possibly the highest profile retired flag officer to speak out in the last month. His scathing letter, published in The Atlantic, condemned racism and called for political leaders to avoid using troops to suppress freedom of speech.

Mattis’ letter followed a photo op for President Donald Trump at a damaged church near the White House. In preparation for the president to walk to the church, police used tear gas and other forcible means to clear otherwise peaceful protestors from Trump’s path.

“Never did I dream that troops taking that same oath would be ordered under any circumstance to violate the Constitutional rights of their fellow citizens—much less to provide a bizarre photo op for the elected commander-in-chief, with military leadership standing alongside,” Mattis wrote on June 3.

Former Joint Chiefs Chairman Admiral Mike Mullen, USN ret., also spoke out in The Atlantic about the use of force against protestors in DC.

“It sickened me yesterday to see security personnel—including members of the National Guard—forcibly and violently clear a path through Lafayette Square to accommodate the president’s visit outside St. John’s Church,” Mullen wrote on June 2.

On June 7, Former Secretary of State General Colin Powell, USA ret., added his voice in an interview on CNN. In his interview, Powell issued a firm rebuke to Trump while also showing support for protestors and his fellow military leaders.

“I think what we’re seeing now, is (the most) massive protest movement I have ever seen in my life, I think it suggests the country is getting wise to this and we’re not going to put up with it anymore,” Powell told CNN’s Jake Tapper.

Top Marine Calls for Removal of Confederate Flags, End to Racism in Corps

In April, General James Berger, Commandant of the USMC, issued a strong directive regarding displays of confederate symbols on Marine Corps installations.

“We are a warfighting organization, an elite institution of warriors who depend on each other to win the tough battles. Anything that divides us, anything that threatens team cohesion must be addressed head-on,” Berger wrote in April.

At the time of his initial letter, Berger directed USMC leadership to facilitate the removal of all displays of the Confederate battle flag and related symbols.

“We must remove those symbols that have the effect of division and not mere disagreement,” he wrote.

As protests continue across the US into June, Berger has issued another letter, clarifying his earlier position and calling for the eradication of racism in all forms in the Corps.

“Current events are a stark reminder that it is not enough for us to remove symbols that cause division — rather, we also must strive to eliminate division itself,” Berger wrote in June. Only as a unified force, free from discrimination, racial inequality, and prejudice can we fully demonstrate our core values, and serve as the elite warfighting organization America requires and expects us to be.”

Top Military Leaders Echos Calls for Equality in Military

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Mark Milley, USA, asked his fellow military leaders in a memo to “please remind all our troops and leaders that we will uphold the values of our nation, and operate consistent with national laws and our own high standards of conduct at all times.”

Milley has previously appeared with Trump at the controversial photo op at St. John’s Church. However, he has since walked back his involvement and acknowledged that being with Trump at the church was inappropriate.

“My presence in that moment and in that environment created a perception of the military involved in domestic politics,” Milley said in a pre-recorded video commencement address.

Secretary of Defense Mark Esper also spoke out about racism and the use of active duty troops to quell protests.

“The option to use active duty forces in a law enforcement role should only be used as a matter of last resort, and only in the most urgent and dire of situations,” said Esper at a June 3 news conference. “We are not in one of those situations now.”

Leaders from across the branches have also joined in, sharing memos and social media messages standing against racism, as reported in the Marine Corps Times.

Army leadership has also reopened the possibility of renaming bases that honor Confederate generals, like Fort Benning. Also under scrutiny are Fort Hood and Fort Bragg, also both named for prominent Confederate generals.

Have you seen or experienced racism in the military? Sound off in the comments.

49 Quarantine Impulse Buys We Feel Zero Guilt Over

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Being stuck in the house can be awesome, but staying put for weeks and maybe months on end can be, well, a lot. In this time of crisis, we’re all looking for ways to stay sane and keep our cool.

Which leads to a lot of impulse shopping online. I’m guilty of adding a ton of things to my cart, but refuse to feel any guilt over these quarantine impulse buys!

49 Quarantine Impulse Buys We Feel Zero Guilt Over

No matter what your guilty pleasure might be, chances are high that there is a product out there to help you scratch that itch. Since you’re stuck in an endless judgement free zone, there’s nothing stopping you from treating yourself.

It’s for your mental health.

Best Quarantine Impulse Entertainment Purchases

Whether you need something to make the endless hours of working from home less boring or you need to keep the kids occupied to, you know, actually work, entertainment is on everyone’s list.

Here’s what we bought to keep us all entertained:

  • STARZ: binge watch Outlander and the new series Dublin Murders with a free trial
  • Disney+: we bought this pre-pandemic, but it’s been paying off in spades with endless child entertainment hours
  • Board games: honestly, we love a board game and so we stocked up on expansion packs for Cards with Friends and the kids’ version of Clue
  • Puzzles: 500 pieces for me and under 100 piece puzzles for the kids mean lots of mind-challenging entertainment
  • New York Times Sunday: just the At Home and puzzle sections alone make this worth it for tons of entertainment
  • Inflatable movie screen: watch all of your best screening services in the backyard with a fun under-the-stars experience
  • Nintendo Switch: it’s fun for the whole family and sanity for all parents

Zero Guilt Fitness Quarantine Impulse Buys

All the anxiety baking means lots of added calories. But some of us are committed to leaving self-isolation with some extra definition.

Here’s what’s on our fitness purchase list:

  • Peloton bike: it’s the buzziest at-home fitness trend of the last 18 months, but also they have a sweet military discount
  • Pull-up bar: you might already have one of these, but there’s nothing that says you can’t have two
  • Rollerblades: relive your youth with a new pair of rollerblades – don’t forget a helmet and knees pads though
  • Treadmill: if you’re not really into spinning, try jogging instead
  • Kayak: maybe you live near water right now or maybe you’re planning for a future vacation
  • Pedal boat: another fun buy if you’ve got a pond nearby

Backyard Fun & Essential Yard Purchases

We all need to escape our homes. If you’ve got a backyard, patio or even a decent sized balcony, you might consider grabbing some of these no guilt quarantine impulse buys.

  • Yard games: badminton, corn hole, volleyball – we’re investing in all the classic backyard games
  • Swings & slides: because the kids need a place to play since all the playgrounds are closed
  • Tents: we’re really loving backyard camping in our 4 person setup, plus I can run inside for a real bed anytime I want
  • Plants: some of us have gone extreme in the garden right now, with veggies, flowers and fruit being potted 24/7
  • Trampoline: gets all the energy out and doubles as a fun fort, too
  • Sprinkler: bring back the glory of our childhood with this retro way to cool off in the summer
  • Bounce house: if you’ve got a little more space, pump one of these up in your yard and be the envy of your neighbors
  • Sumo or dino costume: plant yourself costumed self on the porch while you work and watch your neighbors reactions to your style
  • Hammock: your WFH boss just instituted a new afternoon routine, napping in the hammock
  • Fire Pit: it’s not camping if you don’t make s’mores

Around the House Zero Guilt Quarantine Impulse Buys

You’re stuck inside the house, so you might as well do a few little things to spruce up the place. Or, you know, shop for an entirely new place to call home!

  • A new house: whether it’s a pre-PCS purchase or a vacation/retirement home, the market hasn’t been this good in a while
  • Pressure washer: keeps things looking nice and also ideal for taking out a little pent up aggression with the power of water
  • Lovesac: if you’re spending all this time at home, you might as well be extra comfy
  • Bar: since you can’t go to your favorite watering hole, bring it to you with a cool place to chill after a long day of WFH
  • Roomba: suddenly, I’m seeing so much dirt around the house but don’t want to actually clean it myself
  • Pool & hot tub: we only invested in a blow-up pool for the kids, but our friends went for an above ground pool and hot tub

Self-Care Purchases for the Win

Taking care of yourself and stying healthy is priority number one right now. Which makes all your pampering items feel less indulgent and more 100% necessary.

  • Everything from LUSH: if I’m staying home 24/7, I’m going to do it smelling good
  • Guilty pleasure TV: Melrose Place, the original 90210, Gilmore Girls -whatever your fave comfort TV show is, buy all the seasons and binge it
  • Puppies & kittens: it doesn’t matter if you’re fostering or adopting or maybe just wandering through PetFinder, cuddly animals are 100% self-care right now
  • Bidet: because being clean is essential right now, in all ways
  • AirPods: if they’re in all the time, no one will know if I’d on a work call or if I’m listening to murder podcasts
  • Korean face masks: again, I’d like to look nice while not seeing anyone at all

Guilt-Free Kitchen Items We’re Buying Right Now

It seems like we’ve all agreed that quarantine is going to be the time that we all become incredible cooks and/or bakers. Between sourdough starters and DIY canning, we’re all in the kitchen. Might as well do it up right.

  • KitchenAide stand mixer: the piece de resistance of kitchen appliances, every serious home chef needs to own at least one
  • Vitamix: whip up some healthy smoothies or make a batch of tomato soup, this mixer can do it all
  • AirFryer: so that french fries can have some redeeming nutritional value, since that’s all the kids want to eat right now
  • Pasta strainer: we just scored one that literally clips onto the pot, which is great for carbo loading to combat my pandemic anxiety
  • Ice cream maker: if I can’t to Ben & Jerry’s, I’ll make my own cool flavor combos at home

Quarantine Impulse Buys We All Feel Zero Guilt Over

Be honest: even if you haven’t bought any of the things at the top of this list, you’ve definitely purchased at least one of the things on this, the final list of quarantine impulse buys.

  • Toilet paper: because you can never have enough
  • Booze: whatever you prefer, you’re gonna stock up just in case things get really bad
  • Takeout or delivery: cooking 3 meals a day, every day gets really old, really fast
  • Target pickup: if you can’t get your Target fix, you can at least get your most essential impulse buys brought to your car
  • Beans: canned, dried, refried – we’re all buying beans for their long shelf life
  • Flour & yeast: because we need ingredients to become the next Iron Chef
  • Hair dye: whether you went with semi-permanent or really committed, we’re all switching up our looks right now
  • LEGOs and puzzles: even work doesn’t fill our entire day, so we’re deep diving these sets – first up: Harry Potter
  • Coffee: because we all need to be caffeinated to handle life right now

What’s your no guilt quarantine impulse buy? Sound off in the comments!

Post-Pandemic PCSing Realities You Need to Plan for Now

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The entire US military has existed under a stop movement order since March. It’s placed deployments, homecomings and PCS moves on pause for thousands of troops and their families from coast-to-coast. When we finally can move more normally, what will the post-pandemic PCSing realities look like?

Post-Pandemic PCSing Realities You Need to Plan for Now

As of publication, the military-wide stop movement order has been extended through June 30 by Secretary of Defense Mark Esper. This order will be reviewed every 15 days, according to an April 18 Military Times article. The frequent review could potentially result in an early lifting of the order or might extend the order, depending on how the pandemic response and infection rates evolve.

In the meantime, thousands of military families are waiting on word about their summer PCS moves. There are lots of questions, especially about the real-world application of the DOD’s moving guidance document.

Once we’re free to move about the country again, you’re going to want to be fully ready to move ASAP.

When Can I Move?

While most PCS orders are paused, there are some troops who have been and will be granted exemptions, according to military move expert Megan Harless.

“Some of these moves are still happening from either exemptions, such as being mission essential or in a hardship status, or by exception to policy, such as medical or financial hardship,” Harless explained.

Those exemptions include:

  • Mid-PCS: service members and their families who have physically left their previous duty station and are en route to the next location
  • Troops who are EASing or retiring
  • Mission essential
  • Humanitarian
  • As a result of extreme hardship

MilitaryOneSource notes that those who are in middle of moves or just about to begin the PCS process, need to remain in close contact with their chain of command and their move coordinator.

Exemptions must be applied for. PCS orders that cannot be followed as originally written will be re-issued with adjusted no later than dates.

“Once the stop move order is lifted, troops will be able to PCS without issue,” Harless explained. “Just to note, each service branch has also implemented their own regulations in regards to PCSing this summer and many have seen their report dates get shifted.”

What Happens When PCSing Starts Again?

If you are moving and are not exempted from the stop movement, it’s important that you stay on top of your PCS orders and the moving process.

“Those who are not moving (right now) are being issued amended orders for later in the year, and some have requested to defer their move until next year,” according to Harless.

Harless recommends that troops also remain in close contact with the Travel Management Office and their move coordinator(s).

“(Move coordinators) are designed to be your single point of contact during your move and give you updates on your assigned dates, weight, delivery, and any issues,” Harless said. “If your move has not started or you cannot get a hold of your move coordinator, you can always call your local transportation office, or the moving hotline for assistance.”

Is it Safe to Drive Cross-Country or Fly?

Right now, Harless is getting reports that many hotels across the country are taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of their guests.

“Those that have been staying at hotels have said that many of them are very clean and have taken steps to ensure safety for everyone to include boxed breakfasts.”

When staying at a hotel, Harless recommends:

  • driving slightly longer each day to cut down on overnight stays
  • send one adult into the hotel room to wipe everything down with cleansing wipes

Harless also recommends booking the most direct flight option possible to reduce layovers.

Will This Moving Season Be Busier?

“I think the season is still going to be pretty active this year despite the stop move order and all the change in orders,” Harless predicted. “Industry has noted a drop in the shipments each week compared to last years.”

While things might not be busier right now, there are warning about delays in shipments. This could result in a longer gap between when your HHG are packed and when you receive them in the next location.

“(T)here have been warnings about possible delays in receiving your shipment based on the number of shipments that have gone into storage but not yet delivered during this time frame,” she said.

Harless has noticed that there are more anecdotal reports of families opting for PPM, or DITY, moves as opposed to relying on the military for packing and shipping.

What Can I Do Now to Prep for My Move Later?

Harless is a big advocate of pre-packing, especially this year with PCSing season on pause for much of the military.

She recommends that you:

  • purge unwanted items to sell, donate or dispose of
  • pre-pack items you are not currently using
  • use space saver bags to flat pack soft items, like linens or winter clothes
  • ziploc bags for small toys and items you don’t want separated
  • totes to organize space saver bags and ziploc bags by type

“Moving companies have said that if families want to start packing things they aren’t using that is fine, just leave the box open so they can verify the contents,” she said. “Don’t worry if you do start packing your items because according to the Claim and Liability Business Rules, anything the moving company takes possession of they are liable for.”

Where Can I Go for Help?

You should remain in contact with your gaining and sending commands to ensure continuity of orders. Your move coordinator is also a good point of contact.

For official DOD guidance, troops and families should reference the PCS FAQ issued via move.mil.

Military service members can also find up to date PCS information at MilitaryOneSource.

Has your PCS been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic? Sound off in the comments!

Military Spouses are Uniquely, Perfectly Positioned for Remote Work

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In March, a good portion of the nation transitioned to remote work, aka working from home. There have been more than a few growing pains, what with all the people trying to access your home’s internet at the same time. Plus, we’re all grappling with the facts that those “essential” meetings could have, in fact, been emails instead.

In the middle of this sea change in the working world, one group is poised to claim dominance in the WFH sector. Military spouses are uniquely perfect for remote work – and many of us have been killing it from our home offices for years!

Military Spouses are Uniquely, Perfectly Positioned for Remote Work

Moving every one to three years isn’t exactly conducive to a traditional career. Mostly because many career tracks require you to be in one place for more than a few years at a time. You need time to grow, to get promoted and to demonstrate your skills.

Military Spouse Workforce is a great resource to help leverage your education and experience into a remote or virtual position that works for your military lifestyle!

With the unique demands of a transient lifestyle, military spouses have gotten creative with career paths out of necessity.

Military Spouses Get Creative with Careers

Moving so often means that we can’t stick around in one place long enough to see meaningful promotions. Teachers need 3-5 years in one school to be considered for tenure, for example. That’s not always, or typically, possible as a military spouse.

So we’ve had to get creative with our careers, often turning to virtual jobs or self-employment for continuity and stability.

According to a 2015 Blue Star Families survey, 23% of military spouses have been self-employed or run their own business. Another 28% reported that they were interested in owning their own business. That’s a huge percentage of our population!

Over my 11 years as a military spouse, I’ve worked from home or remote for probably 9 of them. I’ve:

  • run my own tutoring business
  • worked as a copy editor
  • been a freelance writer
  • worked as a content manager
  • owned my own education advocacy business

My friends have worked remotely in fields like accounting, office management, virtual assistant and education – both K-12 and higher education.

In each case, we have leveraged our education and experience to secure these remote positions. The same 2015 BSF survey found that 84% of military spouses polled have some college education or higher, with 58% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Military Spouses are Early Tech Adopters

Know who was on video chats in the early 2000s? Military spouses. We are often on the cutting edge of connectively technology and collaborative work platforms.

It’s not because we have some innate, communal skill or talent that allows us to understand technology faster or better. We adopt and use tech because we have to in order to stay connected with our loved ones. Video chats were needed to talk to our families back home or our deployed service members. We needed to learn about Google apps or online learning platforms because distance learning is often the only option for our own education.

We know how to use tech. And in a world that’s likely to be crawling with remote work, this skill is essential.

Military spouses know tech and how to connect across distances great or small. In this way, we’ve got a leg up on others who rely on being able to connect in person.

Military Spouses are Epic Multi-Taskers

One of the biggest hurdles to remote work, at least right now, is the ability to juggle multiple tasks at once while also being, well, at home.

Military spouses have got multi-tasking down cold. In fact, juggling all the things is basically what we do every day.

It’s not just watching TV and typing either. Military spouses can handle multiple, highly involved jobs always. Jobs like the logistics of a cross-country move, while looking for a home and schools, plus keeping all of the normal things going at home. All while they are solo-parenting.

And everything gets done.

Having multiple work projects with deadlines? That’s easy.

Military Spouses Network & Support Each Other

My spouse jokingly calls my network the milspouse mafia. We know things before our spouses because our grapevine passes verified info quickly.

When we move, I connect with the local military spouse groups to get the gouge on everything from the best schools to awesome CSAs or coffee shops with ethically sourced Ethiopian coffee. Yes, we go big picture while also having incredibly specific details, too.

This incredible network means that I already know a bunch of people who can fill various roles at your company. You get access to all of that knowledge when you hire me.

Plus, when a company or business gains a reputation for hiring military spouses, you’re going to have more exceptional job candidates applying. Because military spouses want to work for people who value our unique skills while supporting our military life.

Hey MilSpouse! Have you pivoted to remote work and rocked it? Sound off in the comments!

Quick Commissary Shopping Tips for the Pandemic

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Going grocery shopping used to be an escape for me, a little time to myself. I could wander the aisles, looking at different options and making comparisons before choosing what I wanted most. Now, I’m doing quick commissary shopping trips, thanks to the global coronavirus pandemic.

Quick Commissary Shopping Tips for the Pandemic

Having to cut my weekly shopping time down to almost nothing means that I’ve gotten really good, really fast at getting just what I need. I’m in an out of the store lickety-split!

Use my quick commissary shopping tips for the pandemic to help make your next grocery run extra speedy!

Meal Plan Like’s It’s Your Job

Everyone is supposed to be mostly sticking close to home, only venturing out for necessary trips. To help your family stick to this rule, it’s important to buy exactly what you need in bulk.

My family has long been meal planners. It’s one of my most essential ways to survive deployments and being a family with two working parents. Meal planning is also a great cost saving strategy!

Right now, it helps me to make sure that I’m getting exactly what I need to make 1-2 weeks of meals for my family of four.

I write down exactly what we’ll have for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus snacks, for two weeks at a time. Then I cross-check ingredients between the recipe and my pantry. Whatever I don’t have, goes on the list.

Plan Around Pantry Staples & Perishable Foods

Some things just stick around longer while others need to be eaten faster. Which means that my meal plans reflect the longevity of the items I’m buying.

At the start of a two week period, I’m more likely to have things like mushrooms, berries or greens in rotation. By the end of the menu, we’re eating a lot more beans and rice.

As you’re meal planning, make sure to move through menus that feature more perishable foods to less perishable foods. It will help you to avoid a last minute dash to the store for just that one thing.

Know Your Aisles

Because he works on base, my husband has actually been the one doing a bulk of the shopping right now. And he’s learned where things are pretty quickly in just a few trips!

Prior to the pandemic, I was the designated shopper. Mostly because I like to have control over things, but also because I know where things are located. Plus, I keep a secondary running shopping list in my head of things that would be nice to have or that we’re almost out of at home.

As my husband has learned where things are located, his shopping trips are getting much faster. Knowing where things are helps him to reorganize his list so that he’s not criss-crossing the commissary multiple times.

Instead, he can start in produce and finish at the deli without going back to the baking aisle.

Our major tip is to draw a diagram of the store or even just create a list of the aisles. Put them into the correct order as much as possible and describe what you might find there. Take a picture of your diagram or put it up somewhere you can see when you make your list.

Know the Rules of Shopping

Right now, we’re facing shortages in a few areas. Toilet paper, cleaning supplies and meat are just a few of the things that we either can’t buy or are limited in buying.

For example, the commissary is limiting how much fresh meat each shopper or family can buy. Instead of eating meat every night, we’ve switched to a more plant-based diet out of necessity.

As you’re waiting to enter the store, check out any posted signs to get an update on purchase limits. Before you load items into your cart, check around you for more signs, just in case.

Buy in Bulk When Possible

We eat a lot of beans, rice and pasta. They’re shelf stable and my kids enjoy them. But I don’t want to be buying these staple foods every single week.

Instead, I’ve been watching for coupons and sales. I try to match those up with our next major shopping trip. Then I buy mass quantities of our favorite pantry items.

Buying in bulk allows us to buy certain things once a month or once every few months. Plus, it can be a money saver since larger quantities of items often have a lower per unit price. If you’re unsure, check the shelf label and look for the per unit pricing.

While bulk buying is great, it’s also important to be considerate of others. We’re all searching for a lot of the same essentials. Instead of wiping out the entire shelf of toilet paper, consider purchasing just what you need and leaving products for the next person.

Look But Don’t Touch

We’re all really conscious of germs right now. The COVID-19 virus can linger on solid surfaces for quite a while, too.

Which makes it more important than ever that we commit to purchases 100%. Before you pick up an item, consider if you really want that particular container.

Right now, it’s encouraged that we only touch products that we are ready to purchase. If you have concerns about ingredients and can’t quickly pull up the info on your phone, it might be better to walk away.

We’re sticking to items and brands we already know. For us, it means shopping time is reduced since we’re not shuffling through all the different varieties to find exactly what we want.

What are your best tips to get through the commissary super quickly? Sound off in the comments!

Spreading Love & Positivity From a Distance

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Throughout the pandemic-related shutdown, neighborhoods have been uniting from a safe distance to spread a message of love and hope. Homes around the country have been decorated with hearts and rainbows in an effort to spread cheer, even as we maintain at least 6 feet of space between us.

Spreading Love & Positivity From a Distance

Hearts have been popping up in windows and doors all around the world, with many US communities joining in on the fun.

Walking around any US neighborhood these days, you’re going to spy hearts, rainbows and other cheerful decorations along with messages of hope. Some hearts are in windows or on doors while others have been created out of sidewalk chalk. From painted hearts to paper rainbows, the whole world has joined together in this pandemic-safe way to show each other a little love.

Show Essential Workers a Little Love

One main message that participants hope to share is support for our essential workers, the people who are keeping our country running right now. From healthcare workers to bus drivers, we’re united to show love to those who are caring for us all.

On military bases, many of our troops are still reporting for duty. Medical personnel and others are still working daily to keep things going. Seeing hearts and other images of support in windows is just one way that we can show them appreciation.

UnityPoint Health, a division of Blue Cross Blue Shield located in the northern midwest, shared a free printable template with their community. Everyone can download, print and decorate hearts to hang in their windows!

You could also consider adding a message of hope. Write with washable paints or special window markers. Just remember to reverse your letter so they can be read from the other side of the window!

Window Hearts Scavenger Hunt for Kids

In addition to spreading support for essential workers, the window hearts have provided a second opportunity to connect from a distance. With playgrounds closed and little chance for social interaction, parents have started taking long walks with their children. It’s a great way to break up the day while also getting fresh air and exercise.

On the way, may families have started to hunt for hearts!

By turning their daily walks around the neighborhood into scavenger hunts, kids and parents are creating an extra twist of fun. Some families look for new hearts daily while others record the locations of hearts. Families can work on counting all the hearts they see and trying to beat their daily totals day-to-day.

Kids for Global Peace shared a fun how-to printable to get started with your own window heart!

More Fun Ways to Share Love & Support

The fun and caring can keep going beyond hearts. Families and neighborhoods are banding together to organize coordinated window messages.

During March, many communities celebrated spring with shamrock and rainbow hunts. April saw neighbors hunting for colorful eggs in windows. Other neighbors are organizing zoo or safari themed hunts by placing stuff animals in windows or posed in yards and on porches.

Some cities have banded together to do a nightly round of applause for healthcare workers and others performing essentials jobs right now.

Coordinate Socially Distant Love & Support Online

Military communities are used to connecting online, especially via social media. Facebook and NextDoor are two useful tools to help you create and coordinate messages of love in your community.

Use your neighborhood group on Facebook or NextDoor to connect with neighbors. Explain what you would like to do and provide a “start date.” Share the effort with local organizations, like the base chaplains, CDCs and community groups.

Then place your decorations in the window and take a walk! See how many other houses you can find that have joined the movement.

Has your family seen hearts and rainbows on your walks? Sound off in the comments!

3 Special Pandemic Pay & Incentives You Need to Know

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With so much of our US military operating under special conditions due to the pandemic, many troops who might otherwise qualify for special duty pay might not meet monthly requirements. However, the DOD has released guidance to help commands and service members navigate options related to pay during the pandemic.

3 Special Pandemic Pay & Incentives You Need to Know

The military is being tasked with different duties and roles, as well as having normal operations and troop movements disrupted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In response to these unprecedented times, the US Department of Defense has released several guidance letters to commanders across the services to support troops.

Special Duty Pay You Typically Receive

Many military specialities receive monthly special duty pay for performing aspects of their jobs. For example, pilots, flight crews and aviation maintenance crews all receive additional pay for these duties. However, this pay may be tied to achieving minimum monthly hours performing in this role, such as flight hours.

With many troops tasked elsewhere or no longer doing their typical jobs, those monthly hours are not being logged. This could remove that special duty pay from the next pay check.

The DOD has announced that troops who typically receive such pay incentives but cannot perform those duties as a direct result of COVID-19 shutdowns, may have recourse.

The Service Secretary for each branch of the military now has the option to waive those requirements for special duty pay.

This would mean that you could continue to receive that special duty pay even if you are unable to perform that specific job due to the pandemic.

In order to see if you qualify, speak to your unit chain of command.

Restriction of Movement Hardship Duty Pay

Some troops may be ordered to self-quarantine in a location other than their home due to possible exposure to COVID-19. In some cases, there may be additional hardship duty pay available to help defray costs associated with the quarantine.

In order to qualify, troops must be lodging somewhere other than their own home, government quarters or a hotel paid for at government expense. In other words, the hotel is being paid for out of pocket by an individual and is not going to be submitted for reimbursement later.

For troops who meet this criteria, there is an allowance of up to $100 per day and $1500 per month for costs associated with self-quarantine in a hotel.

To find out if you qualify, please speak to your chain of command.

Carry-Over Leave Max Cap Extended

With leave still allowed, but restricted to the service member’s local area only, many troops may not be taking leave in the near future. In addition, many military personnel are also working from home if possible and may require less leave time than previously. Since so much of the country are shut down, even in areas around military bases, taking leave may not be high on anyone’s to-do list.

Now, troops do not have to worry about exceeding the previous 60-day leave cap. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper announced recently that troops who are “performing acting service” may rollover up to 120 days of leave through September 30, 2023.

This temporary policy change would prevent troops from losing unused leave time, as would previously happen with the 60-day cap. The change recognizes the changes in troop movements and responsibilities as a result of the pandemic, as well as the necessity of time off for force readiness and overall troop health.

As the current global health crisis evolves, and hopefully resolves, in the coming months, monitor updated DOD policies and other force changes.

Financial Counselors Available Virtually

If you are struggling with your finances or have been impacted financially by the pandemic, personal financial counselors are available to support you virtually.

Counseling services are offered without cost to service members and their families. All counselors are certified in financial counseling and education.

Contact your local Family Center for more information.

Have you been impacted financially by the pandemic? Sound off in the comments!