Military Life News

Military Life News, Commissary Rewards and Military Discounts

DeCA Dietitian Encourages ‘Thinking Outside the Box’

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Can I confess something? When my children were young and my spouse was constantly coming and going, there was a time when I cooked everything in the microwave.

Looking back, I am more than a little embarrassed at the amount of boxed dinners I prepared for me and my brood. To be fair, when my kids were young, the internet was still a newfangled mysterious thing and Pinterest wasn’t even a word yet.

Shamefully, I sacrificed nutrition for convenience. And I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who has fallen into the trap of ease versus nutrition.

Which is why the “Thinking Outside the Box” initiative created by DeCA’s registered dietitian, Deborah Harris, is such a good idea.

Harris joined the DeCA team earlier this year and her impact has been nothing but positive. In a recent interview Harris revealed she doesn’t “want to tell people what they cannot eat,” instead she wants “them to be knowledgeable about what it is they are eating.”

And what better place to promote that awareness than at military commissaries worldwide? In the biweekly commissary flyer (and online), she offers healthy and easy dinner ideas that feature specials at the commissary.

Dinner plans and a sale? Nothing wrong with that.

Harris Understands the Demands of Military Life

Harris comes to DeCA with plenty of military experience under her belt. Raised as a Navy brat, 1st Lieutenant Harris served as a dietitian in the Army for 4 years at both Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Fort Sill. She is a certified diabetes educator and a maternal child health specialist.

Prior to joining DeCA, Harris was the director of network programs for the Michigan Fitness Foundation. She also worked as a public health specialist for the SNAP-Ed program and worked to help educate students, parents and other community members about nutrition and obesity prevention across the state of Michigan.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in public health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

DeCA’s Dietitian Provides Quick and Easy Dinner Ideas

You can find meal ideas in the biweekly sales flyer, but even if you don’t regularly shop at the commissary, you can still take advantage of Harris’ dinner ideas.

Visit the Healthy Eats section on the DeCA website to browse new and archived recipes.

On the menu this week? Stovetop Tuna Mac. Stovetop Tuna Mac is just a handful of simple ingredients and takes about 30 minutes to prepare.

Quick Stovetop Tuna Mac

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta (elbow, rotini, or rigati)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 12-16 oz frozen broccoli
  • 2 eggs
  • 6 oz nonfat evaporated milk
  • 8 oz sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 5 oz can tuna in water, drained
  • Dry mustard, salt & pepper to taste

Boil pasta according to package directions. Add ¼ tsp of salt to the water and cook until pasta is tender (8 to 10 minutes). Drain pasta and return to the pot along with 2 tbsp of butter and mix until butter is melted. Microwave frozen broccoli according to directions on package.

While that’s cooking, whisk together 2 eggs, nonfat evaporated milk, ½ tsp salt, dash of pepper, and ¾ tsp of dry mustard. Add mixture to pasta and stir gently. Set heat to low and add cheddar cheese, heat until the cheese melts and the sauce is slightly thickened and creamy.

Remove from heat and add the drained tuna to the cheesy pasta. Gently mix.

Serve with broccoli and enjoy! This recipe serves a family of 4.

If tuna isn’t your thing, check out these other great recipes:

Thankfully, I eventually realized making healthy choices for my family was infinitely more important than convenience. With great deals and recipes right at your fingertips, you won’t have to make the same mistakes I did.

And just in case you’re still sitting on the fence, just pretend I’m your mother, whispering in your ear, “Eat your veggies and make healthy choices.”

For more “Thinking Outside the Box” recipes, visit DeCA’s Healthy Eats.

65 Clothing and Apparel Stores that Offer Military Discounts

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Military orders send us across the country and around the world, but that’s no excuse for not looking our best.

Military exchanges offer great deals on name-brand clothing and apparel, but many clothing retailers are happy to offer military discounts to service members, veterans and their families. It never hurts to ask for a military discount, so don’t be shy, just be prepared to flash your valid military ID.

If you’re looking for a solid, no-fuss military discount, shop at these great retailers. Who knows, a fabulous pair of boots or your new favorite pair of jeans might be in your future.

In-Store Military Discount

Some in-store discounts may vary by location and you will be asked to present a valid military ID. When in doubt, just ask! Also, keep in mind that many chain stores are independently owned and discount amounts and dates may vary by location.

  • Abercrombie & Fitch: 10-15%, at manager’s discretion
  • Adidas Shoes: 10%
  • Aeropostale: 10-20%
  • Alfred Angelo: 30% off bridal gowns
  • American Eagle Outfitters: 10-15% off, at manager’s discretion
  • Anchor Blue: 10%
  • Ashley Stewart: 10%
  • Banana Republic: 15% off on full price items
  • Bass Pro Shops: 10% off from the 15th to 22nd of each month
  • Boscov’s: 15%
  • Cabela’s: 5%
  • Christopher & Banks: 10%
  • Claire’s: 20%
  • Dress Barn: Discount and participation varies by location
  • Eddie Bauer: 15% discount (some promotions excluded)
  • Express Clothing Store: 10% discount, can be combined with other coupons
  • Extreme Outfitters: Up to 20% off military gear
  • Forever 21: 10%
  • Gander Mountain: 5%
  • Gap: 10% discount on the first of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).
  • Hanes Outlet Store: 10%
  • Hot Topic: 10-20%
  • Jockey: 10%
  • Jones New York Outlet Store: 10%
  • Kohl’s: 15% military discount at select stores nationwide
  • L.L.Bean: 10% discount at select stores nationwide
  • Loehmann’s: 10%
  • Maurices: 10%
  • New York & Company: 15%
  • Old Navy: 10% military discount (may vary by location; in-store only)
  • Pac Sun: Discount varies by location
  • Payless: 10%
  • Rackroom Shoes: 10% (varies by location)
  • Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Stores: 15%
  • Rockport: 15%
  • Steve Madden: 10%
  • Stride Rite: 10%
  • Timberland: 20%
  • Tommy Hilfiger: 10%
  • Under Armour Outlet Store: 10%
  • Wet Seal: 10%

Clothing Stores that Offer Military Discounts Online

Some retailers offer the best of both worlds – in-store and online discounts! When shopping online, you will need to verify your military affiliation through ID.me or Troop ID. It only takes a few minutes and the discount is well worth the effort.

  • Allen Edmonds: 25%
  • Bonobos: 15% discount for up to 5 orders per year
  • Converse: 10%
  • Alter’d State: 15% discount on regularly priced merchandise
  • Carhartt: 10%
  • Frank & Oak: 20%
  • Lady Foot Locker: 20% discount with Veterans Advantage card
  • Nike: 10%
  • Orvis: 10% discount with the Veterans Advantage Card
  • Overstock: Free Club O membership for military personnel
  • Pirate’s Yacht Club: 15% off using code Military15
  • The Limited: 10%
  • Torrid: 10% discount in Torrid stores or by calling to place an order with a Torrid Personal Shopper
  • Wilson’s Leather: 10% off in-store with military ID or call 1-866-305-4704
  • CafePress MILPRIDE20* Save 20% off orders from CafePress.com; MILPRIDE25* Save 25% off orders from CafePress.com (September 1, 2017 to September 30, 2017)

Military Discount Available When Shopping Online Only

Forget the hassle of hunting for parking and dealing with the crowds. Put your feet up and let your fingers do the shopping with these online-only discounts.  Just make sure you take the time to verify your military affiliation before checkout. A few clicks and you’re done. The hardest part is waiting for the delivery guy.

Which of your favorite clothing stores offer military discounts? Tell us in the comments section.

Are the Challenges of Military Life Worth It?

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At the end of the year, I find myself feeling a little introspective. This year has brought a lot of ups and downs, but perhaps the most monumental aspect of this year for my family is this:

we had our last military move.

Retirement is just around the corner. I’m not sure I even believe it yet. I grew up traveling the world with 2 active-duty parents. I took the oath of enlistment myself and then settled into the familiar life of a military spouse.

Every single moment of the first 40 years of my life has been influenced by the military community.

I have never known health care that wasn’t Tricare. Words like PX, PCS, TDY and ACUs are a part of my regular vocabulary. I have seen countless iterations of uniforms, moved from one side of the world to the other, and started and left more jobs than I can count.

As I think about this past year and imagine what a fast-approaching civilian future might look like, I have to wonder if the challenges we’ve faced as a military family have been worth it.

It’s a question not easily answered and so I did what any military spouse would do. I leaned on my military community and asked them: what are the biggest challenges of our particular lifestyle?

I empathized with their responses, and it wasn’t long before I noticed that almost every challenge listed was directly tied to the transient nature of our lifestyle. With that in mind, I sat down and gave some thought to this particular aspect of my life. Has moving 19 times been worth it?

Change Moving Is Never Easy

No matter your MOS or career field, this is one aspect of our military life that we all share in.

Often it’s a hassle, sometimes it’s an adventure, but it is always stressful.

Making sure you can find adequate housing, ensuring the school district is acceptable, finding a new job, setting up a new support system, picking a new primary care physician, figuring out which gate is open, the list goes on and on. I can honestly say that even though I have done all of these things many times, they never get any easier.

Moving is exciting when it’s just a set of orders and a daydream about the possibilities, but a nightmare when your entire life is packed into boxes, your spouse is headed out to God knows where for who knows how long, and you don’t even know where the closest grocery store is.

And then there is the separation. Separation from a spouse sent on deployment or TDY. Separation from extended family. Separation from the friends and co-workers who became your surrogate family when you first arrived at the new military installation.

As I sat reliving the stress and strain of military life, I could feel my blood pressure begin to climb.

And then it hit me. The lessons this life has taught me are invaluable.

Lessons Blessings in Disguise

If I had never traveled the world, I wouldn’t have lived in the beautiful, red brick townhome in England. Never had milk delivered in glass bottles right to our door. Never discovered that boiled Brussels sprouts are entirely unpalatable. I would never have played hide-and-seek in the small grove of olive and apricot trees on Crete. Never learned to swim in the Mediterranean.

If I hadn’t changed schools ever couple of years, I would have missed out on friendships that forever changed the way I saw the world and understood people. I would never have listened to a foreign friend tell me her secret dream was to one day become an American.

If I hadn’t said goodbye to countless friends, I would never have had the chance to say hello to so many others.

If I hadn’t waved goodbye to my spouse, I might never have learned that I am strong, smart and able to take care of our household on my own. And I would never have been able experience the sweet relief of watching him walk through the front door unharmed.

If I hadn’t agreed to quit a job to go where the Army sent us, I might never have learned how to make giant Christmas bows or develop a database or process a mortgage. I might never have learned how to create websites or work in social media.

I might never have learned that friendship, comradery, resiliency and a sense of duty will always trump adversity.

So has military life been worth it? For me, I think the answer is undeniably, yes.

How would you answer this question: Knowing what you know now, would you live your military life all over again?

Obesity Rates Among the Ranks Climb to Nearly 8 Percent

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Close your eyes. Picture an average service member.

Their uniform is probably some version of digital camouflage. Their hair is cut short or pulled up above the collar. In your mind’s eye, they snap to attention and present a sharp salute. They are fit, ready and prepared to deploy at a moment’s notice. This is the soldier, sailor, airman or Marine we picture.

But recent information put out by the Defense Health Board suggests a growing percentage of our military ranks aren’t as fit and prepared to fight as we might think.

In fact, nearly 1 in 13 service members could be classified as clinically obese.

Top officials don’t seem particularly worried about present-day readiness, but it’s hard to imagine that a continued upward trend in obesity wouldn’t impact future readiness. As such, top Pentagon officials are working diligently to re-evaluate how services evaluate fitness.

But the real question is how did we get here? How have obesity rates in the military climbed to nearly 8 percent, more than twice what it was 5 years ago?

Pointing the Finger Would Be Easy

Rising obesity rates would be an easy mystery to solve if the same problem wasn’t also plaguing the civilian sector.

We could demonize all of the video game-loving millennials and accuse them of weight-gaining laziness.

We could point our fingers at unit-sponsored potlucks and bake sales.

Or we could vilify the chow hall and demand they stop selling hamburgers and french fries.

But the truth is, while all of these things are factors, the true culprit lies in America’s relationship with food.

America: The Land of Cheap and Plenty

We live in the land of cheap and plenty.

Big portions are like victory banners shouting our triumph over food shortages faced by those who lived through the Great Depression.

We live our lives on an advertising battlefield, hunted by big name food manufacturers and distributors out to improve their bottom line. They offer us the flame-broiled burgers, a bucket of soda and a big slice of American apple pie, all for $5 or less. They play into our self-realized weaknesses and pitch low-calorie, nonfat chocolate bars and cheese-covered baked potato crisps.

Our children (and future service members) are inundated with sugary cereal commercials and foods that are more toys than they are nutrition.

Even the fittest among us are targets for sugar-laced energy drinks and high-calorie protein packs. We have entire TV networks dedicated to decadent foods. We aren’t just in love with food, as a country, we are completely OBSESSED.

How We Got Here Is No Great Mystery

With nearly 2 in every 3 Americans classified as overweight or obese, the perpetual battle of the bulge has been a slow, simmering conflict in our country for the past half century. It is a battle that has made the real-life and devastating effects of heart disease and diabetes commonplace.

Given that the volunteers for our Armed Forces are pulled from our population at large, that they have learned to eat in a surreal world of corn, wheat and soybean subsidies, is it any surprise that this issue made its way into the ranks?

How we got here is common knowledge: lack of exercise, too much stress and highly-processed, highly-addictive foods.

We expect our service members to be a breed apart, to set the standard, to walk the fine line and stand at the ready to defend our nation. And yet, they must feed themselves from the same collective American table, so to speak.

When was the last time you saw a commercial for fruit that wasn’t tied to a bottle of juice?

Where is the Hollywood hunk giving face time to a head of broccoli?

Better yet, when was the last time you or anyone you know took a nutrition class?

Certainly service members are exposed to some kind of nutritional training, but a 2-hour session can hardly undo the programming instilled by a childhood of bad-eating habits.

I am sure that the DoD will take steps to make sure those currently serving better understand the implications of a poor diet. We may see it reflected in the commercial food services offered on post. We may even see food addiction treated in the same manner as drug or alcohol abuse.

But in truth, this will only be a stop-gap for those already in uniform.

If we want to see obesity rates decline, both in our neighborhoods and our military services, we have to reinvent our relationship with food. If we don’t, the consequences to our nation, our military and our waistlines will only continue to grow.

What actions do you think DoD should take to help service members who are overweight?

Should Military Spouses Tag Along on TDYs?

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After 18 years as a military spouse, I’ve lived through my share of service-connected separations. Be it multi-month deployments or weeks-long TDYs, separations are a part of military life.

Some military spouses, especially those new to this lifestyle, often struggle with the idea of separation, even for a short period of time.

And while deployments don’t allow military spouses to visit troops in country, many spouses do make the decision to follow their service member while they are on temporary duty.

I certainly appreciate the desire to be near your spouse, especially when a separation comes after basic training or in conjunction with a PCS to a new duty station.

Should Military Spouses Tag Along on TDYs?

Few military spouses have the luxury of packing a bag and hitting the road. If you plan to follow your service member on temporary duty, you’ll need lots of lead time to prepare.

But before you pack a bag and make a long-term hotel reservation, here are a few things to consider.

Your Service Member’s Free Time May Be Limited

A TDY typically involves some kind of training or special mission requirements. As such, a service member’s free time may be limited or they might be restricted to the duty station or facility. They may also work odd hours or have homework that limits the amount of free time they have outside of work.

So what does that mean? You might find yourself sitting in a hotel room in a town you’ve never been to before with no spouse to keep you company and zero support network.

If you are prepared for the possibility of spending a lot of time alone, make sure you have something to focus your time and energy on in between the sporadic visits from your spouse. You may want to take an online class, write a book or volunteer for a local nonprofit organization.

Planning Ahead Is a Must

Few of us have the luxury of packing a bag and hitting the road. If you plan on following your service member on temporary duty, you’ll need lots of lead time to prepare.

If the TDY is in conjunction with a PCS, you may need to give notice to terminate a lease and schedule a household goods pack-out.

Reservations at many hotels around busy military installations may be limited or long-term stays and temporary or short-term rental properties may not always be available. If you have pets, availability may be limited even further.

It is tempting to throw caution to the wind and figure it out as you go. But consider the extra strain and stress on a service member if you are unable to secure living arrangements.

Training and focusing on the mission becomes infinitely harder if you are worried about your spouse sleeping in your car.

If you make the decision to accompany your spouse, don’t leave the planning to the last minute. Plan to have a conversation about expectations. Try to talk to other service members about services and facilities available for a short-term relocation. Have a plan B in the event that a 3-week course suddenly becomes 6 weeks.

TDY Life May Be Costly

Perhaps the biggest consideration for a short-term relocation for military spouses is budget. Can you afford to quit your job or take a leave of absence, for the duration of the TDY?

Don’t forget that you may find additional costs associated with living out of your suitcase. If your living arrangements don’t include a kitchen or a washer and dryer, make sure you include those costs into your monthly budget.

The seasoned spouse in me wants to tell my fellow military spouses contemplating one of these temporary relocations to reconsider.

That the potential strain to relationships and budgets aren’t worth the occasional opportunity to see your spouse. That being alone in a new place without the benefit of a unit to turn to in times of need is time better spent in a familiar place or with family.

But instead, I will simply say this — Military life affords us ample opportunities for adventure and promises countless nights will be spent counting down to a reunion.

Separations are never easy, but we can and do learn to persevere through them. We must each make decisions about what is best for us and our families. If you decide this kind of move is right for you, be smart about your reasons and be fair in your expectations.

Have you ever moved to a location temporarily while your service member was conducting training or a short assignment there?

How to Host a Friendsgiving

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Celebrating Thanksgiving with friends (in lieu of or in addition to family) has become a modern tradition. And while it hardly seems like a new idea for those of us who have spent countless holidays away from home, Friendsgiving is fast becoming a tradition in its own right.

In the same way the Pilgrims gave thanks for the community and feast shared by their Native American neighbors, so should we continue that tradition with those who act as our support system when we find ourselves far from home on Thanksgiving Day.

And in the same way our relationships with friends differ from those with family, Friendsgiving isn’t bound to just one way of doing things.

How to Host a Friendsgiving

Friendsgiving is about enjoying the bounty of friendship.

Here are 6 tips for hosting your own Friendsgiving.

Pick a Date that Works for You and Your Friends

Traditionally, Thanksgiving is the fourth Thursday in November, but feel free to adjust that date if it makes sense for you and your guests. If it’s too hard to make it happen during the week, consider the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Or if some of your besties are headed home for the holiday, consider the weekend before.

This celebration is about giving thanks for those in your life who help to lift you up and support you. And if gathering all those folks together can only happen on a Sunday afternoon, then so be it.

Decide on a Dinner Theme

When most of us think of Thanksgiving, we envision roasted turkey, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. And honestly, you can’t go wrong with this time-tested menu.

But if turkey is not your thing, then feel free to get creative.

Want to do a take-out only dinner?

Want everything to be bite-sized or finger foods?

Want to fire up the fondue pot?

Friendsgiving should include a good meal, but what that meal entails is up to you.

Invite Your Friends

Try to give your guests as much notice as possible so they can plan ahead.

One of the best parts of Friendsgiving is that everyone brings a dish to share, much like those who attended the first Thanksgiving.

Be sure your invitation includes the date, time and location. Be clear about what you want everyone to bring to this meal. Online invites like Evite can make it easier to keep track of who is bringing what. Lest you end up with a turkey, 10 bowls of mashed potatoes and no gravy.

If You’re the the Host, Work to Minimize Your Stress

As the host of a Friendsgiving, your goal is to make sure everyone feels welcomed and is well fed. Depending on the size of your invite list, you may need to buy or borrow extra place settings, serving plates and utensils, or even chairs. Try to think ahead to make sure you have everything you’ll need on the day of the event. You’ll minimize your stress and be able to relax and enjoy the day.

You should also plan to provide the main course for the meal. If you’re going the traditional route, that means the turkey. If roasting an entire bird scares you, consider just a turkey breast or two. You may want to order it from the deli at your local grocery store.

Friendsgiving is about enjoying the bounty of friendship, not about slaving in the kitchen.

If basting the bird until it’s golden brown is your thing, then have at it. If you’re better at eating turkey than cooking it, then do what works for you.

Oh, and make sure you have extra foil, plastic wrap, paper plates, and storage/bags containers so you can send folks home with leftovers when the meal is done.

If You’re the Guest, Offer to Help

As an invited guest at a Friendsgiving celebration, make sure you take the time to RSVP. Even if you can’t attend, let your host know so they don’t plan for 10 only to have 2 show up.

If you do plan on attending, make sure you check with the host to find out what you can bring or how you can help. A bottle of wine  is also a great host/hostess gift. Plus, a little bit of wine or a good craft beer never goes unappreciated among friends.

When the meal is done, don’t be a lump. Help your host clean up so they can enjoy the post-turkey celebration with you.

Count Your Blessings

Eat, drink, be merry, and take a moment to really appreciate the amazing friends you have in your life. Pictures are a given, so consider tasking someone with capturing photos of the day.

The tradition of sharing what you are thankful is a wonderful idea for dinner conversation starters. And no Friendsgiving meal would be complete without a toast to your friendship and the blessings those connections give you.

Have you ever hosted a Friendsgiving for Thanksgiving? Share your story on the MilitaryShoppers Facebook page.

Millennials: the Next Generation Called to Serve

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As Veterans Day approaches, we will begin to pay tribute to those who have nobly served our country. We will recall the bravery of the men and women who answered the call to arms in previous generations and those who have recently departed from service. Included in those numbers, are a surprising number of millennial veterans.

4 Surprising Things About Millennials in the Military

This newest generation of service members, millennials, has a lot to offer the Armed Forces.

Born between 1985 and 2000, the millennial generation is now the largest segment of the American population. They also encompass the greatest number of those currently serving in our Armed Forces.

The millennial generation, who came into adulthood amidst iPhones, Harry Potter and social media, is often stereotyped as lazy, narcissistic and entitled.

But as a mother of 2 millennials, I beg to differ with these stereotypes. Here’s what this newest generation of service members has to offer the Armed Forces.

4 Surprising Things About Millennials in the Military

They Know the Importance of Service

Millennials are driven to do meaningful work and are unlikely to pursue a career they don’t feel drawn to. They are unlikely to pursue careers just because of salary or position. They want to go home at the end of the day knowing the work they’ve done meant something.

When the United States suffered the terrorist attacks on 9/11/2001, millennials answered the call to service in massive numbers. According to the 2014 American Community Survey conducted by the U.S. Census, in 2014 there were 1.7 million veterans under age 35.

Six out of the 11 service members awarded the Medal of Honor for service in Afghanistan were millennials.

And with current millennial service member ranks totaling 2.5 million, the number of veterans from that generation will only continue to grow. If we let their service track record speak for them, dedicated should be added to the list of generational attributes.

They Thrive in Team Environments

Ask any service member to list key attributes of unit success and teamwork will be at the top of that list. Perhaps greater than any generation before them, millennials understand the importance of teamwork. Most tend to consider their co-workers as a second family. They look to each other, those in charge, and subordinate to them for ideas to solve complex problems.

Within this team environment, millennials are eager to lead if given the chance, but don’t assume they always know best. In fact, the majority of millennials understand the importance of drawing from the experience of leadership and place a high level of importance on mentorship.

That being said, the “it’s the way we’ve always done it” argument is often met with resistance. Millennials want to know that the way things are being done is the best and most efficient way to do it, even if that means changing a steadfast process.

They are “the Most” Generation

Modern military service has long touted the benefit of education and encouraged service members to pursue various degrees.

The millennial generation is the most educated generation in American history. In 2013, nearly half of those aged 25-35 possessed a bachelor’s degree and nearly 20% have a master’s degree or higher.

Hand in hand with their drive for education, this generation also faces the greatest amount of student debt. This is a factor that leads many to examine military service as an option for providing both a meaningful and a stable work environment.

Millennials are also the most ethnically and racially diverse generation of the modern era. They are also the most open to social change and are unlikely to see gender or sexual orientation as a barrier or hindrance to service.

They Love Technology

Modern warfare is dramatically different from the open trenches and massive land invasions of the two World Wars. From logistics to weaponry, administration to communication, technology is the driving force in our military’s superiority.

Millennials were practically born with a mouse in their hands – their ability to adapt and accept new technology is the foundation of how they interact with the world.

By 2020, one in 3 American adults will be a part of the millennial generation. Their influence is growing and will continue to have an influence on our society. Their impact on everything from the economy and industry to the structure of the American family and American dream will be prevalent for the next 60 years.

And from where I’m sitting, they’ve more than proven they are ready to take on that responsibility. We just have to be willing to let them do things their way, even if means trying something new.

What would you add to this list of surprising things about millennial veterans?

Privatization Proposal Leaves Many Questions Unanswered

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In the ongoing battle to retain commissary benefits, privatization is one option being considered. The hope is that privatization will eliminate the $1.5 billion DeCA budgetary shortfall.

Several large retail companies were asked to provide insight on what such a program might look like. Though the names of those solicited was not revealed, it’s hard to imagine that retailers like Walmart and Target weren’t in the mix.

But is privatization of the commissaries really the answer? Let’s break down this proposal.

Would Prices Go Up?

Many might be surprised to learn that most grocers operate at a profit margin significantly less than the 5% surcharge currently charged by commissaries. And that profit margin includes the cost of facility maintenance, labor, and taxes, plus shipping and distribution. Combined with the national distribution capabilities, massive buying power, and private label options of companies like Walmart, it’s unlikely that the overall cost of most items at a privately managed commissary would go up. We might pay more for some items, but less for others.

However, commissary pricing is almost always less expensive for high-ticket items like dairy and meat.

Would a major retailer be willing to reduce an already skinny profit margin to ensure prices on these items stayed the same?

What about taxes? There is currently no tax at the commissary. Would the same be true for a privately managed facility?

And let’s not forget about our OCONUS commissaries. Is a large retailer in a position to manage these overseas locations?

Are there any restrictions on a private company conducting business in foreign country? Would those restrictions potentially add to the cost of items sold there?

And would a private company be willing to eat losses to ensure service members and their families still have access to the products they need at the prices they can afford? Or would those costs, in turn, cause an increase in pricing at OCONUS locations?

Would Jobs Be Lost?

Approximately 60% of DeCA’s 18,00 employees are veterans, dependents and spouses. Any potential for the loss of jobs is reason enough to give careful consideration to any kind of management transition.

That being said, retailers like Walmart have employment programs for military spouses and veterans.

Is it realistic to assume that some employees would be allowed to keep their jobs? Probably, but the big question is would they be kept at the same rate of pay and offered the same benefits?

And how many current DeCA positions would be eliminated due to duplication within a current private provider’s business structure? Positions like purchasing, logistics, accounting, human resources and others could be in jeopardy.

Will Privatization Create Competition with AAFES?

In a recent report presented to Congress, the success of the AAFES Exchange program relies heavily on a close relationship with commissaries.

But with private retailers, even those typically seen as grocery-only, offering up everything from holiday décor to furniture, would privatization create a conflict of interest? Would those retailers be willing to eliminate those items? If not, would the loss in potential sales at exchanges throw a currently self-supported business model into ruin?

Is Privatization a Viable Option?

With so many questions left unanswered and the unlikely willingness of a major retailer to accept the rules that restrict profit for commissaries, privatization hardly seems like the answer to DoD’s budgetary woes.

But in truth, any push to eliminate or change the program feels likes overkill. While the $1.5 billion budget deficit looks like a large sum, it is less than 1% of the total defense budget.

According to a recent nonpartisan report, every single taxpayer dollar spent equates to nearly double the return in value of benefit given to service members and their families.

Is there any other benefit program that can boast such a claim? And what about a plan B? Should implemented privatization fail to support a pricing structure that provides the same level of value, will additional taxpayer dollars then be called upon to increase service member pay to bridge the gap?

Ultimately, it comes down to this: Are the risks of privatizing the commissary worth the potential loss of such a widely used program? Is it worth the loss or erosion of yet another benefit promised to a community who already sacrifices so much in service to their country?

What do you think it means that a “significant number of companies” have expressed interest in operating the commissaries?

How to Find a Work From Home Job

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The never-ending cycle of hunting for a new job is a struggle we military spouses know all too well. Many spouses turn to work from home opportunities as a way to remain employed despite moving every 3 years.

How to Find a Work From Home Job

Do you work from home? How did you find your work from home job?

But sometimes finding a work from home job is enough to make you question your sanity.

Do steady, dependable and legitimate work from home opportunities exist?

Of course they do!

Check out this list of work from home resources and then get to work!

Work from Home Job Boards

Telecommuting and remote work are no longer the oddball, sketchy positions they used to be. Tons of reputable companies offer work from home positions in areas like communications, customer service and project management. There are lots of job boards out there. Here are a few with good reputations:

  1. Flexjobs.com. There is a fee for access to the site ($50 per year, with options of quarterly or monthly subscriptions), but this is one of the top work from home job boards out there. Search for freelance and remote opportunities listed by hundreds of well-known companies.
  2. VirtualVocations.com. This site requires an annual fee, but offers a great list of remote work opportunities. Jobs include computer and data entry work, to writing, marketing and more.
  3. Indeed.com. Free to use, just put “Remote” in the location search field to find all kinds of telecommute and remote positions. You can even set up keyword alerts so you don’t have to visit the site every day.

Work from Home Jobs Where You Are the Boss

Starting your own business might be the best work from home opportunity out there, but it does require you to get smart on business laws and regulations. State, county and even city laws can impact the kinds of businesses you can run from home. They also regulate taxes. If you live on-post or overseas, additional rules may apply, so check with your housing office.

  1. Get Crafty. If you’re a master with a glue gun, crochet hook or paintbrush, consider turning your hobby into a great home-based business. Sites like Etsy.com, Artfire.com and Amazon Handmade take all hassle of building an e-commerce website. Good pictures are essential, so if you can’t take them, hire a photographer who can.
  2. Cottage Industries. Many states have cottage industry laws that are designed to help nurture budding home-based businesses. If you can bake like a master or if you grow tomatoes like there’s no tomorrow, consider selling your wares and produce at local farmers markets. Each state (and sometimes county) has different rules, so be sure to do your research.
  3. In-Home Child Care. In-home child care can be a great way to earn an income while helping other military families. Just like other businesses, check your state, county, city and military installation rules for running this kind of business for children.
  4. Direct Sales. If you love to meet new people and try out great products, direct sales might be the job for you. Choose from a vast array of products – everything from make-up and home goods to food and wine – and work as much or as little as you like. Some direct sales companies will even ship to FPO/APO boxes, though specific regulations and rules apply, so make sure you check with the company you are interested in and your installation. The Direct Selling Association website is a great place to start.

Freelance Jobs for Military Spouses

  1. MadSkills.com. A newly launched military spouse-owned business, MadSkills is out to help connect military spouses with companies who need their mad skills. If you’re a whiz at building websites, graphic design, project management, writing, and more, then check them out. It’s free to create a profile.
  2. Other Freelance Communities. It can take some time to build up a reputation to keep you busy all the time, but there are many freelance communities offering a wide range of freelance opportunities. Check out Freelancer.com, Guru.com and UpWork.com. Free accounts are available, but paying the small upgrade fee can provide greater visibility of your profile and open up a greater field of work. Craigslist can also be a good resource for freelance work, just do your due diligence before accepting any work listed there.
  3. Millie.com, which is managed and run by veterans and military spouses, hires “Scouts.” Scout opportunities are open to active duty, Gold Star spouses or newly retired military spouses who are willing to use their experience PCSing, buying and renting homes, deployments, community involvement and volunteering to help military families transition into new locations. This could include walking through potential rentals or letting a handyman in to do some repairs on a service member’s house.

Do you work from home? How did you find your work from home job?

Military Travel Discounts to Get You There

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Holiday travel will soon be upon us. With all of the added costs of holiday meals and gifts, don’t let the high cost of travel keep you from enjoying your time away.

Check out these great military travel discounts to help you get where you need to go and enjoy your time away.

Military Travel Discounts to Get You There

What is your favorite military travel discount?

Military Travel Discounts on Airfare

Space-A travel is one of the best ways to save money on airfare. Never flown Space-A before? No worries! Fellow MilitaryShoppers.com writer Julie Provost’s article Space-A Travel for the Military Spouse has you covered.

You’ll need to be flexible with your arrival and departure dates and times, but Space-A is one of the most cost-effective ways for military families to travel.

If Space-A isn’t available, check out these other airline discounts:

  • Southwest. Discounts are available to service members by calling Southwest at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA. You will need to show a military ID upon check-in to get the discount.
  • American Airlines offers a military discount, but you have to call 1-800-433-7300 for access to those special rates. They also offer a 50% discount on pets within the continental United States and Canada.
  • Delta Airlines. Delta has a great military discount program. Get discounts on airline travel by calling 1-800-325-1771. You can also bundle travel options by visiting their Military Vacation page.
  • US Airways. Service members and their dependents can take advantage of special military rates by calling 1-800-428-4322.

Military Travel Discounts When Traveling by Train

It might be a little old fashioned, but if you have a little more time, and you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, consider taking the train.

Even better, make taking the train part of your vacation plans. You’ll get to experience travel the way it used to be and see spectacular views you won’t get anywhere else.

  • Amtrak offers a 10% military discount, though some limitations apply. Get all the details on their site.
  • Royal George Route Railroad. Make a train ride part of your vacation and book a trip on the Santa Express. And don’t forget to take advantage of the 10% military discount.
  • Take a trip through the Great Smoky Mountains on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad and get a 20% military discount.

Military Travel Discounts When Renting a Car

When you rent a car, be sure to ask for a military discount. The following car rental companies offer great military discounts.

If you are a USAA member check their travel site for additional rental car discounts. Get all the specific details by visiting your favorite car rental website.

Other Military Travel Discounts

Sometimes getting off the beaten path means taking the road, or rather the method, less traveled.  If you’re up for a little adventure, consider one of these great travel options. And don’t forget the military travel discount!

  • Taking the bus can be an adventure and Greyhound offers a great military discount. Get 10% off walk-up fares and pay no more than $259 for travel anywhere in the United States.
  • Not everyone knows how to fly a plane, but if you do, take advantage of military discounts when renting aircraft. All American Aviation Services out of Fayetteville, N.C., and serving all of the American southwest offers military discounts on aircraft rentals. Need an aircraft in Southern California? Check out Pacific Air’s military discount. Peak Aviation in Colorado Springs also offers a 5% military discount.
  • If camping or traveling by RV is more your style, check out the Tentsfortroops.com website for campsite and RV site locations that offer free or discounted stay for military service members and their families.

What is your favorite military travel discount?