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The Case for Living Off Base

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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.

Photo Credit: ©Kristen /Adobe Stock

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!

Are Troops in for a Big Raise in 2021?

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Military troops could see a 3% pay raise as soon as January 2021, according to Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-TX, the top GOP member of the House Armed Services Committee.

Top Armed Services Republican Promises 3% Raise in 2021

This pay raise was submitted in February 2020 as part of President Donald Trump’s proposed 2021 budget which recommends $741 billion in overall defense spending. Thornberry expects that this portion of the budget proposal will be adopted by Congress.

“People are our number one priority. And that’s a way to show our people we value them,” Thornberry said. “So I would expect the (White House’s) requested pay raise to be included next year.”

If adopted, this would be the second consecutive year that troops would receive a 3% or higher raise. In 2020, troops saw a 3.1% raise.

Should Congress adopt this portion of Trump’s budget, troops could see $800 or more in their annual salaries in 2021, according to projections from Military Times.

Based on these calculations, junior enlisted troops would receive $860 more per year. Senior enlisted and junior officers would receive at least $1500 more in their annual salary. Mid-grade and senior officers would receive $2500 or more. For example, a service member with 12 years of service and a rank of O-4 would receive $2800 more in 2021.

Aim to Retain Troops, Match Civilian Pay

Thornberry is confident that this proposed pay raise will pass. He is committed to retaining troops by making military careers more lucrative.

“We want to continue to attract and retain the very best people we can,” he explained. “Nobody does it for the money, but it is at least a factor in families deciding whether they want to join or stay in the military.”

In the past, defense leaders have strayed from the federal pay calculations, a formula designed to help match military pay to civilian counterparts, to allocate more funds to readiness and modernization efforts. However, Congress has opted to stick to the pay increases in recent years.

This year, Thornberry is concerned that troop raises and other military spending might be targeted for cuts due to the pandemic response spending. Current House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith, D-WA, has already gone on the record, stating that he does not support additional defense spending if the funds could be better used in public health initiatives or recovery programs.

Troops Slated for Raise, Other Programs Suffer Deep Cuts

Trump’s budget proposal was unveiled in early February, prior the the pandemic crisis and the recent Black Lives Matter protests sweeping the country. Titled “A Budget for America’s Future,” the plan outlines several major areas of change.

The EPA’s budget, under this plan, would call for the elimination of 50 “wasteful” programs and $500 million in research funding. The VA would be 14% higher than 2020 budget, with $105 billion in funding allocated for 2021 and $94.2 billion in immediate allocations for future programs.

Also in this budget, Trump calls for the elimination of the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities, both major funders of PBS and NPR as well as other programs around the country. Trump also calls for an end to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which allows college loans to be forgiven when an individual has spent a period of time working for a public service agency while also making regular payments toward their loans.

If passed, what would you do with your increase in pay? Sound off in the comments!

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

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

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

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

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

Military Families Opt for Caution

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An Abundance of Caution & Cancellations

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

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

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

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

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

Outdoor Activities Favored This Summer

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

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

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

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

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

Some options received overwhelming negative answers. These include:

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

Military Families are Taking Precautions to Stay Healthy

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

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

Other ways that military families are staying safe include:

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

Very Different Summer Plans in 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

Others noted that even on-schedule PCSes were changed.

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

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

Should Bases Named After Confederate Soldiers be Renamed?

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Yes, in my opinion the 10 Army bases named after Confederate Soldiers should be renamed. Our country is going through a lot of turmoil lately and this is a great way to start healing. Nine of the ten bases were established during World War I and World War II and were named after Confederate Soldiers. The 10th was in Virginia, Fort Lee and was named after General Robert E. Lee during the Civil War. One way to look at this change would be to follow Army Regulation 1-33, The Administration of the Army Memorial Program which postdates the naming of these bases and review them based on that criteria.

Why?

Why were these bases named after Confederates? It was twofold, an effort for reconciliation between the north and the south and to gain Southern support for the bases which required lots of land. The “Lost Cause” a narrative of the southern gentleman fighting for states rights not slavery was becoming more widespread around the late 19th early 20th century and really peaked with the popularity of “Gone with the Wind” both the book and the movie in the 1930s and 40s. This also contributed.

Who?

The Federal Government with input from local leaders chose Confederate soldiers who were in most cases from the states the base would be established. These are the 10 bases and who they were named after (Wikipedia List of U.S. Army Installations Named After Confederate Soldiers):

What is so egregious about this list is so many were just mediocre soldiers and Maj. Gen John Brown Gordon was the head of the Ku Klux Clan in Georgia. On the other hand, many Confederate officers were graduates of West Point and served honorably for the U.S. before joining the Confederate cause during the Civil War. Gen. Robert E. Lee had an outstanding career prior to the Civil War and had even served as the Commandant of West Point. Many of these officers are revered and studied during military history. Today we live in a more zero-defect world. When a general falls from grace such as in the Gen. David Petraeus scandal they resign and no one gives a thought to their military heroics. We need to relook the names of these Army bases and follow the criteria set in AR 1-33.

AR 1-33

According to AR 1-33, these is certain criteria that must be met before there can be a permanent memorialization of Army real property in honor of a distinguished deceased individual. This is the criteria:

  • Only deceased individuals will be memorialized
  • Memorializations will honor deceased heroes and other deceased distinguished individuals of all races in our society, and will present them as inspirations to their fellow Soldiers, employees, and other citizens.
  • An installation set up for the use of a specific branch of Service or activity normally will be memorialized for a distinguished member of that branch or Service while serving there.
  • Facilities should be memorialized for individuals with ranks or grades comparable to those of the main users.
  • When possible, facilities will be memorialized for individuals whose careers or actions were important to, and well known in, the locality where memorialized.
  •  Approval authorities who exercise authority under this regulation must establish and consider the advice and recommendations of the memorialization boards.
  • The proponent of the committee will follow all the requirements of AR 15–1 for establishing and continuing the group as a committee. All decisions to memorialize personnel will be made with the understanding that the Army Memorial Program is designed to honor those who served with valor or distinction.

The Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affairs) ASA (M&RA) is the approval authority. So, I say convene a memorialization board and reevaluate the 10 bases named after Confederate soldiers. So, my question is should a soldier who deserted the Army or rose up in arms against the United States be considered a hero or distinguished individual? I think not. The Army Memorial Program is supposed to honor those who served with valor or distinction. I can’t imagine how a black Soldier must feel stationed at Fort Gordon and is named after someone who was the head of the Ku Klux Klan. It is time for a change. What do you think?

TRANSCOM Walks Back $7.2 Billion Privatized PCS Contract

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

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

TRANSCOM Walks Back $7.2 Billion Privatized PCS Contract

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

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

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

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

Privatization of PCS in Response to Military Family Advocacy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short Term Solutions Prior to 100% Privatization

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

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

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

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

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

Safely Celebrating the 4th During the Pandemic

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

Safely Celebrating the 4th of July During the Pandemic

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

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

Backyard BBQ for Just You

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

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

Fire up the grill and cook:

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

Go nautical with a seafood feast, including:

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

Include yummy sides like:

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

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

Decorate & Celebrate the 4th Safely

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

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

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

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

Watch a Patriotic Movie Marathon

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

Check out this list:

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

Take a Virtual Trip to DC

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

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

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

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

So Just What is Space Force?

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The U.S. Armed Forces Branch not the Netflix TV Show

The United States Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the Armed Forces and was established on December 20, 2019 in the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. It is due to be stood-up by June, 2022 (18 months from inception). Space affects almost every area of our daily lives now. Satellites in space are crucial to internet, phone service, and GPS technology. First responders use the technology to communicate and it is important for financial services such as paying with a credit card at a gas pump. This is the first new military branch since the Air Force was established in 1947.

USSF has not decided what service members will be called yet but “Spacers” for lack of a better term are going to be at the forefront of technology. Missions will include launching rockets, protecting satellites and keeping them operational and developing technology to make this happen. Because Space has become so critical to our nation’s infrastructure, it was determined that it needed its own branch of military for its defense.

The USSF’s first task was to establish a fully functioning headquarters at the Pentagon and work with the U.S. Air Force to transfer forces into USSF. Staff from the Air Force Space Command headquarters at Peterson Air Force Base have become a command element for USSF.

Space Force Facts

  • General Jay Raymond is the first Chief of Space Operations appointed by the president. Chief Master Sergeant Roger Towberman is the first Senior Enlisted Advisor.
  • Just like the Joint Chiefs, the USSF Headquarters and the Office of the Chief of Space Operations are at the Pentagon.
  • Military and civilian personnel involved in space operations for the Air Force Space Command will comprise the initial personnel for USSF. Other units and personnel for the Air Force will transfer to USSF in the coming months.
  • The Air Force Space Command is now the U.S. Space Force. Currently those who transferred will remain Airmen with the U.S. Air Force. Over the coming months those in space jobs will be transferred to USSF while those in other jobs will just be assigned to USSF.
  • Peterson AFB in Colorado is a critical hub for USSF.
  • The initial force is about 16,000 civilians and military assigned on Dec 20, 2019 from the former Air Force Space Command. Those with desired job skills will have the opportunity to transfer to USSF.

The recent recruiting video makes this statement, “Maybe your purpose on this planet isn’t on this planet.” Pretty thought provoking. Over the next year we will start seeing more specifics on what this branch will be. Of course, everyone wants to know what the uniforms are going to look like. There is currently a design process taking place.

On an interesting note, Netflix premiered “Space Force”, a new comedy series staring  Steve Carell on May, 29. As early as January 2019, Netflix was seeking to trademark the name “Space Force” not only in the U.S. but Europe, Australia, Mexico and more. The U.S. has a pending application to register the trademark. Definitely a potential conflict. It will be interesting to see how this shakes out. Having watched a few episodes of the show, it is like a military version of “The Office” the show that made Steve Carell famous. It is pretty funny, but not too complimentary to the branch.

What are your thoughts? Do you think we need a new military branch?

*Information on the Space Force was compiled from the USSF official website.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Retired Military Leaders Speak Out About Protests, Racism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Military Leaders Echos Calls for Equality in Military

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Storm Season is Upon Us – Both Commissaries and Military Exchanges are Here to Help You Prepare

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Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 and Tornado Season is April to July.  Each year hurricanes and tornados wreak havoc across the country. For many military families it may be the first time you have lived in an area affected by these storms. It is important to be prepared with emergency supplies. Both your local commissaries and military exchanges are prepared to help you.

Service members and their families can plan for that disruption by using their commissary benefit to purchase emergency supplies, said Army Command Sgt. Maj. Tomeka N. O’Neal, the Defense Commissary Agency’s senior enlisted advisor to the DeCA director.

“When the storm comes and all of a sudden you have no electricity, or you cannot get to the grocery store, which may also be closed – what’s your plan?” O’Neal said. “Before a bad day gets even worse, think ahead and save money as you use your commissary to help prepare for that emergency event.”

This year is scheduled to be a more average season but 2019 saw around 1500 tornadoes, one of the most active seasons on record and 18 named storms with six becoming hurricanes according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Tornadoes often occur with little time to prepare and although you have more notice with a hurricane, long lines and last minute rushes to purchase emergency supplies can leave you without what you need.

The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is offering a severe weather promotional package from April through October 31. The package includes discounts on these items: beef jerky and other assorted meat snacks, soup and chili mixes, canned goods, powdered milk, cereals, batteries, airtight bags, weather-ready flashlights, tape (all-weather, heavy-duty shipping and duct), first aid kits, lighters, matches, lanterns, candles, hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes. Specific items may vary from store to store.

“Throughout the year we advise our customers to be ready for any emergency, natural or manmade,” O’Neal said. “Even with the COVID-19 outbreak, we still want our customers to be prepared. However, regardless of the situation, we recommend that they calmly purchase what they need and avoid any panic buying to ensure products are available for others in their communities.”

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) also has a plan to support military shoppers during storm season. During the 2019 storm season AAFES shipped almost 150,000 emergency supplies to stores up and down the East coast for Hurricane Dorian allowing stores to stay open. “The Exchange is all in to serve, especially during disasters,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Luis Reyes, the Exchange’s senior enlisted advisor. “Should our stores be affected by a hurricane, we have internal processes in place and the experience to ensure water, batteries, flashlights, generators and other critical supplies are pushed to areas they are most needed.”

There is an Exchange Disaster Support Group (DSG) which reviews plans and guidance before each storm season. If a storm hits, mobile field exchanges (MFEs) are ready to deploy to support military first responders. Each MFE is a 53-foot trailer with emergency supplies, toiletries, snacks and drinks. “No other retailer does what the Exchange does,” Reyes said. “The Exchange stands ready to provide a ray of sunshine in the wake of a natural disaster and bring a bit of comfort and normalcy to an otherwise dire situation.”

Suggested Supplies for an Emergency Kit

Includes recommendations both for an evacuation or remaining at home. When preparing, plan for a three-day supply for evacuation and two-weeks if you are remaining at home. Think in terms of no running water or electricity.

  • Water – at least one gallon daily, per person (three-day supply for evacuation, two-week supply for home)
  • Nonperishable foods – canned meats, fruits, vegetables, dried fruits, nuts, raisins, cereal, crackers, cookies, energy bars, granola, peanut butter, and foods for infants and the elderly (three-day supply for evacuation, two-week supply for home)
  • Paper goods – writing paper, paper plates, paper towels and toilet paper
  • Writing utensils – pens, pencils (manual pencil sharpeners), markers
  • Cooking items – pots, pans, baking sheets, cooking utensils, charcoal, a grill and a manual can opener
  • First-aid kit – including bandages, medicines and prescription medications
  • Cleaning materials – bleach, sanitizing spray, and hand and laundry soap
  • Toiletries – personal hygiene items and moist wipes
  • Pet care items – food, water, muzzle, leash, carrier, medications, medical records, and identification and immunization tags
  • Lighting accessories – flashlights, batteries, candles and matches
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
  • Duct tape, scissors
  • Multipurpose tool
  • Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates and insurance policies)
  • Cell phone with chargers
  • Family and emergency contact information
  • Extra cash
  • Emergency blanket
  • Maps of the area
  • Blankets or sleeping bags

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

What is Feds Feed Families and How Can you Help?

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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 11th 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