I’ve been living the military life for over a decade now. In that time, we’ve lived all over the world, including homes both on and off military bases.

While living on base definitely has it’s perks, like being completely surrounded by a community that “gets” situations unique to military life, I’m a strong advocate for living off base whenever possible.

The Case for Living Off Base

Don’t get me wrong. We’ve enjoyed living in base housing. Being surrounded by mostly caring military families who understand about TDYs and deployments is great.

However, living on base, to me at least, means that my spouse is living where he works. He, and by extension our whole family, is constantly surrounded by military colleagues.

Again, that’s great when you need to have the always awkward “will you be my emergency contact” conversation with a person you met three seconds ago.

Still, living inside the military bubble 24/7 is a lot.

We Were Really Never Off Duty

From here on out, I’m going to use “we” because when our family has lived on base, we have been way more tied to everything about my husband’s military job. Every second of every day is consumed with military-centered realities.

There is no time for him to be “off.” Sure, there are weekends and he can take leave. Which is great and much needed.

But also, he’s still shaving every day and prepping for the inevitable moment when we run into his CO randomly.

Shop talk is always happening. There is never a chance to just talk-talk, to talk about literally anything other than the military life. All of his conversations when we’ve living on base seem to revolve about work – even on weekends or when he’s on leave.

He is never not on duty, which means we are also always on duty. There is no break, no complete separation between work life and home life. Everything is military 24/7.

Off Base Living Gives Us Space to Breathe

Right now, we live off base. We’re coming off of three years of living in military housing OCONUS.

We needed a break from being constantly “on.”

Sure, he’s still “on” duty and reachable by phone or email 24/7. But it feels different than when his boss lived just down the street. He has to leave our living space to physically go to work or have work conversations. It’s no longer an in-passing situation.

I can see how much he needed this space away from the grind of military duties. Living within the military 24/7 meant he was never able to switch it off, ever.

Now, he leaves and returns our home in civilian clothes. There is a clear, definite transition between job and home. When we walk outside, there is very little chance of getting roped into future planning with a colleague or CO.

There is no shop talk.

We Have Freedom to Choose

We often joke that we had our biggest home before we had kids, and it’s true. Our first on base house dwarfs our current civilian home.

But we had no choice in where we lived on base. Sure, we were given “options,” but it was mostly choice in name only.

We could go with A or B, this or that.

The lack of choice was especially apparent OCONUS. On base living wasn’t even a choice; rather the housing office made that decision for us. Then they gave us two choices, this one or that one.

Luckily, our options were somewhat different, a townhome or an apartment. Others stationed with us were sometimes given adjoining townhomes, and asked to choose. We also know people who were asked to select between two identical apartments, on the same and often in the same building.

There was no choice in where we were assigned to live.

Living off base has given us this freedom back.

Making our housing decisions during our last move was great. We could consider all sorts of factors and options that just weren’t a thing had we lived on base.

We talked about square footage, windows, yard space, schools and commute options. We talked about neighborhoods and green spaces.

We had true, radically different choices to make about where we were going to live. And it felt so freeing.

Building Connections Between Military Life and Civilian Life

One of the biggest complaints I’ve heard in the last 12 years is that civilians just don’t “get” military families or military service.

Have you ever thought that maybe it’s because many military families are self-isolating in on base housing?

Right now, we have a few military-connected neighbors, but mostly our community is filled with folks who have no immediate connections to the DOD. It’s wonderful.

Beyond just being able to turn the military side of our lives off outside of working hours, it’s really cool to see the wonder and genuine curiosity if our neighbors eyes,

When we got dressed up for the ball last year, everyone came out to see us off. They had never seen those classic dress blues up close and personal. The kids wanted to examine his sword. And everyone thought it was incredible that I still got to dress up as a grownup; for everyone else that mostly stopped after their wedding day.

A few weeks ago, my husband casually mentioned that new neighbors (also military) would have been stuck in their old duty station under the recent stop movement orders had they moved any later. That thought never occurred to them before, that your whole life revolves around orders.

Over drinks a few months ago, someone asked about deployments. When I shared our deployment story, a refrain that common in our military community, my neighbors were stunned.

They had never really considered that someone they know and like had experienced something with the potential to be deadly. Hearing that I was only in my early 20’s, sending my spouse off to combat, knowing that people we knew wouldn’t make it home alive – I think it put things into a different perspective. Suddenly the casualty numbers became a little more real to them.

Living off base allows everyone to learn and grow freely as we build these important bridges together.

Do you prefer living on or off base? Sound off in the comments!

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!

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.

With most Federal employees’ jobs not effected by the COVID-19 pandemic the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) annual Feds Feed Families (FFF) campaign takes on greater importance. Food banks are struggling to meet the demand of so many people out of work and food insecure. This year, 2020 marks the 11^th annual FFF campaign which reaches out to employees from all federal departments and agencies to donate food, services and time. Resources collected go to food banks and pantries around the country. The campaign takes place in June and July but throughout the year FFF sends out seasonal reminders to donate throughout the year.

“During these challenging times with coronavirus, I am amazed by the generosity of the American people and their giving nature,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. “Our USDA family has the most dedicated employees in the federal government and this campaign is our chance to help feed those in need.”

The 2020 Food Drive is focusing on healthy, nutritious foods. Participants may collect nonperishable foods and fresh foods (as appropriate for each food bank). Items most wanted by food pantries include high protein foods such as canned or dry beans, peanut butter, canned tuna, and salmon. Also in demand: grains (such as brown and white rice, pasta, and macaroni and cheese), hot and cold cereal, canned vegetables, canned fruit, dried fruits, 100 percent juice drinks, granola bars, and soups.

There are many ways to participate:

• Become an FFF Champion at your department or agency to motivate your colleagues to participate.
• Donate online: Purchase food at an online grocer and have it delivered directly to a food bank or pantry. Or make a monetary donation to a food pantry or food bank. Record your donation in either pounds or dollars on the FFF Hub.
• Combined Federal Campaign (CFC): Donate money to a food pantry or food bank through the CFC special solicitation through June 30 and also during the regular CFC giving season from September through January. Record your donation on the FFF Hub.
• Attend a virtual food drive event: Join your colleagues online to learn about food insecurity in your community and how to donate pounds to participating local organizations.
• Drop off donations at your local food bank or pantry: Record your donation in pounds on the FFF Hub.
• Plant-a-row: Plant an extra row of produce in your garden and give the extra harvest to local feeding programs.
• Field Gleaning: Field Gleaning is the harvesting of unused or unharvested produce. Search for gleaning opportunities in your community that you can do on your own time. Learn about gleaning with the USDA Gleaning Toolkit. Weigh the produce or ask the farm to help you calculate pound and record your donation on the FFF Hub.
• Warehouse Gleaning:Warehouse Gleaning is volunteering to sort and package food donations at a food bank or pantry and is completed on your own time. Ask the food bank or pantry to help determine the weight of food resulting from your volunteer time and record your donation on the FFF Hub.

Check with your local commissary to see if they are participating in the campaign. They have two ways to participate; purchase a prepackaged brown bag and drop it off in the designated bin or purchase, or bring in, any nonperishable or personal hygiene product and drop it in the bin.

You can also check out the FFF new website, the FFF Hub to find out more about participating in the campaign. FFF measures their donations in pounds rather than dollars and the website provides a way to record contributions. It also provides information on ways to participate and success stories.

According to the FFF website, Since Feds Feed Families launched in 2009, this campaign has collected more than 92 million pounds of food for donation. In 2019 alone, federal employees donated more than 2.8 million pounds. USDA is the designated lead agency for the National Feds Feeds Families campaign for the U.S. government nationwide.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com

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!

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!

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!

During the COVID-19 Pandemic taking care of your health can be confusing especially when it comes to navigating TRICARE and the Military Health System. Even a cough generates the question do I have the “Corona”? Other questions can be admin related such as my ID card has expired. Rumors are rampant so here is where you can find accurate and updated information.

Accurate Information

Did you know TRICARE is on Facebook? This is a great source of information.  The latest  TRICARE on Facebook post gives information about using the emergency room at a military hospital during the pandemic and the steps taken to insure your safety. Another place to find detailed information is the official Tricare Corona Virus page on their website. Great accurate up to date information and frequently asked questions. It also has a section of symptoms and signs of Corona Virus. It gave a better explanation for me than I had seen anywhere else.

ID Cards

One of the big questions is what do I do if my ID Card expires? Service Members can renew online.  For family members and military retirees if your Uniformed Services ID (ID card) expired on or after Jan. 1, 2020 you can continue to use your card until Sept. 30, 2020 to receive care and fill prescriptions. If you have a new family member for TRICARE, make sure all their information is updated into the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). You will then be able to mail, fax or email your paperwork to your nearest ID card issuing facility. For more information visit ID Card Online Office.

Telemedicine

I recently had a routine medical appointment over the phone. It worked well for just basic questions and updates on my existing condition. What is you have new illness or symptoms of COVID-19? Contact the Military Health System (MHS) Nurse Advice Line. A Military Health System registered nurse can answer your questions as well as assess your symptoms over the phone. They can screen you as well for COVID-19. They can coordinate follow up medical visits with a health care provider either virtually or in person depending on the medical condition. Important: When you receive a call, it will show up as blocked or unknown. Make sure to answer during your appointment time.

COVID – 19 Myths vs. Facts

The TRICARE website also has a section of Myths vs Facts and I found it highly informative. It has detailed information on why and how to wear a mask and dispels the myth that homemade cloth masks aren’t effective. They are and the site has suggestions on how to wear, material etc.

Another myth is there are no resources for children to help them cope. Here are two: Military Kids Connect and Sesame Street for Military Families.

One way you can help is to share Coronavirus infographics such as the one on this page on your social media. The TRICARE Facebook page has a bunch to choose from. If you do share information on social media make sure it is from reliable, vetted sources.

Sign up for TRICARE Email Alerts to stay up to date on the latest news.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com

It’s been approximately one million days of pandemic self-isolation. And while mostly everyone is working from home, those male military regulation haircuts are looking a little scruffy.

Ladies in the military, I’m sorry. This post is for all the gents out there because they’ve got to keep it high and tight.

Now, look, no one wants to leave the house because germs. Which 100% removes going to the barber as an option.

What’s a hard-charging guy to do? Enlist his spouse to do the perfect fade for him, of course!

Easy Tips for a Perfect Pandemic Military Haircut

Editor’s Note: no Marines were physically harmed in the haircutting process detailed in this article. However, his pride was deeply wounded.

And that’s exactly what my husband did in April. Suddenly, I needed to learn how to do a zero to three fade on his head. Perfect symmetry was a must, obviously, as well as a faultless blend.

What follows is my documentation of that attempt. Full disclosure: he wouldn’t submit to pictures being taken during this journey. You’ll understand why.

Pre-Cut Research

I’ve seen my husband’s gorgeous Devil Dog-authorized military cut for over a decade. But I’ve never attempted to administer this cut myself. However, duty called and I responded, “Aye-aye!”

Before I whipped out the clippers, I wanted to do a little research first. So I turned to my trusty ally: YouTube.

After watching this guy cut his own hair, I felt ready to tackle my husband’s hair.

Clippers were oiled and a suitable salon-worthy cape was acquired. Ready for action.

In Which I Attempt a Marine Corps Fade

Things didn’t go well from the start. Even with a complete walkthrough in the video, when confronted with an actual head of hair, I felt woefully unprepared.

Still, he needed to meet regulations and I was the only one around to support him. Before firing up the Wahl, I triple checked that he didn’t want to just attempt this himself.

“How bad could it be?”

Oh, we were about to find out.

The first pass at the base of his neck went well. and I got the zero part of his cut done nicely.

The first issue popped up as I attempted to move to the next section: not zero.

Giving a Perfect Military Haircut is Hard!

Fun fact: heads are lumpy and bumpy, making symmetrical haircuts a challenge under the best of circumstances. These were not the best of circumstances.

My clippers slipped a little and suddenly that zero cut was reaching a lot higher up the back of his head.

No worries, I can totally fix this when I blend.

I moved on to the next segment and swapped in a new clipper guard. As I attempted to mix the completely shaved section of hair into the very low buzzed section, I started to feel like I was in over my head.

Not helping matters was the fact that my spouse is 6’3′. I’m 5’9″, but even sitting in a chair, it was hard to move my body around to keep things even.

The Tight Part Gets Higher

As lines kept zigging and zagging, I kept trying to adjust. Suddenly, that tight part of the haircut was very high on his head.

Oops.

Also, I 100% gave him an out from this disaster and he refused. It’s basically his own fault.

Again, I paused and let him assess the damage. Yes, even the very high and very tight sections.

Still, he insisted that it could be “fixed.” I, however, was losing my very limited faith in both myself and my video instructor. This was not going according to his video. Although, operator error was likely a factor.

Admitting Defeat in the Quest for a Military Reg Pandemic Cut At Home

I made a valiant attempt to do damage control, as requested. But what ended up happening was that things got a whole lot balder.

Truly, I tried to make things seem okay. I even switched out the guard for a longer attachment for the top section.

But there was just no saving this ‘do from the inevitable.

Because we were doing this at the kitchen table, there wasn’t a mirror immediately available for him to check on my progress. I just had a handheld one for quick checks.

As I kept going, at his insistence that it couldn’t be that bad, I lost it. Tears sprang to my eyes as I took in the ruin of his hair. I was sad, but also trying to keep the giggles from erupting and revealing just how badly I had done.

Finally, I lost control. There was no way that this haircut could be salvaged from the inevitable.

I broke it to my sweet, trusting husband gently.

“Babe, you’re gonna lose it all.”

He shuddered, but agreed once he looked at my attempt in the mirror. He handed over the clippers once again and I got to work. This time, I didn’t even attempt to use anything other than the lowest setting, evening everything out to “zero.”

Lessons were learned by all during this trying time.

First, don’t get attached to your hair. And second, lean into the bald look. It’s technically military regulation approved!

What’s your funniest at-home haircut story? Sound off in the comments!

It’s Wednesday morning and I am in the air flying to my father’s funeral. It is so surreal to be experiencing this during the Covid-19 pandemic. In some ways, it is so much harder and in others way things are simpler. My father passed away on Monday of an emergency not the corona virus.

My father a retired naval officer lived in a Louisiana State Veteran’s Home. My Mother received a call there was a complication from a minor medical procedure and they were taking him by ambulance to the hospital. My Mother called the family and then proceeded to wait in the emergency room parking lot. She saw my Dad go into the hospital from the ambulance but was not allowed to be with him. The staff was kind to my mother and came out to update her that he had arrived and the doctor would come out once he had examined Dad. My Mom updated us and we weren’t thinking that anything was serious.

Death

Dying during a pandemic is a terrible way to die because you are alone. The doctor came out to see my mom and was full of empathy as he informed my mother that my dad had passed away while she sat in the car alone in the emergency room parking lot. My poor mother called everyone from the car and continued to wait in the parking lot until she could see my father for the last time. The wait involved waiting for the coroner. Finally, she was able to go into to see my father which was a real blessing for her. The last time she had seen him was through the window of the nursing home as no visitors were allowed. The doctor escorted my mother into see dad and he was so thoughtful. When my mom expressed a wish that her children could see him he helped her take a photo that she could share with us. She mentioned to me when she shared the story how young the doctor was. I couldn’t imagine how much death he had seen in his short career.

Getting There

After the shock subsided, all the questions emerged. Can we have a funeral? Should I fly? Is it risky to be with my mom coming from Washington State? Is it dangerous for me to go to Louisiana? My husband jumped into gear and was already looking into flights while I was on the phone. He said something that really resonated with me. “We got this, we are a military family and they aren’t like other families.” So true and with the precision of an operations order, flights were booked, notifications and decisions made. Due to travel restrictions for my husband and my son distant learning we decided I would go alone.

Flights were a little challenging as there were limited options. Luckily, I was flying out of a major airport and although I couldn’t fly into Baton Rouge the nearest airport I was able to get into New Orleans is only an hour drive away. A positive is that last minute flights are much less than they normally are and first class was not an expensive upgrade.

The Funeral

We were all nervous as to what would happen due to all the news stories about morgues and funeral homes overwhelmed. We lucked out and everything was arranged very quickly but also very sad. We can’t have a catholic funeral mass which is tragic for our family. We are only allowed 10 people in a cemetery service. One thing my dad has always expressed a wish for was to have military honors and that is not an option at this time. So even though it is very difficult it is also simpler with easy decisions and much less expense for my father’s estate.

The Silver Lining

My mother is 80 and I was worried about her and the fact we couldn’t travel. I am able to go spend a week with her. I am very grateful for the resilience I have built during my years as a military spouse that kicks in at times like these. I know I will get through this but I have to admit it is tough. So this is what it is like to lose a loved one during these times. Reach out to those you love especially the older ones. Call or use snail mail and connect in these uncertain times. You won’t regret it.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com