Military Life News

Military Life News, Commissary Rewards and Military Discounts

Pharmacies Operating After Cyberattack

By

In February, a significant cyberattack rattled health networks across various regions. The attack targeted healthcare organizations, exploiting vulnerabilities in their digital infrastructure and disrupting essential services. As a result, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities faced disruptions in their operations, including delays in patient care, cancellation of appointments, and difficulties in accessing medical records. The cyberattack was on the nation’s largest commercial prescription processor, Change Healthcare (CHC). Military pharmacies were included in this impact.

When the cyberattack occurred, CHC disconnected its systems as part of a safety mechanism. Affected pharmacies moved to other means to calculate dosage, track prescriptions, and ensure safe prescriptions were provided. As of April 2nd, the system is back to full operational status and military pharmacies have returned to standard operations.

The incident underscored the importance of investing in cybersecurity infrastructure, implementing encryption technologies, and enhancing employee training to mitigate the risks of future cyberattacks, especially in the realm of healthcare where personal information is stored electronically. Electronic medical records allow for seamless access across healthcare networks, which is especially helpful for military members and their families seeking are at various Military Treatment Facilities, or MTFs, around the world. Prescriptions are electronic to allow for ease of filling. Some medications, like controlled substances, are required to be sent electronically, with exceptions made for outages like what happened with the cyberattack.

After the cyberattack, healthcare organizations faced the daunting task of restoring normal operations and rebuilding trust among patients and stakeholders. The process of returning to normalcy involved several key steps and challenges, each requiring careful planning, coordination, and execution.

Ultimately, the return to normal operations after a cyberattack required a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving all levels of the organization, from frontline staff to senior leadership. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, enhancing incident response capabilities, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, healthcare organizations could mitigate the impact of future cyber threats and safeguard the integrity and confidentiality of patient data.

The repercussions of the cyberattack extended beyond immediate disruptions, reverberating throughout the healthcare industry and prompting calls for greater vigilance and preparedness. Healthcare providers were urged to strengthen their cybersecurity posture, collaborate with cybersecurity experts, and remain vigilant against emerging cyber threats. Additionally, policymakers and regulatory bodies were prompted to reevaluate cybersecurity standards and regulations to better protect healthcare systems and patient data from malicious cyber activity.

A return to normal operations is excellent, coupled with continuous monitoring and threat intelligence to aid in swift responses to potential security incidents and minimize the risk of further disruption.

Did you have to file a pharmacy claim? You can learn more about pharmacy claims. Or you can contact Express Scripts.
 
Do you have questions about filling your prescriptions? You can contact your local military pharmacy or TRICARE retail network pharmacy.
 
Want to learn more? You can visit TRICARE prescription drug coverage and pharmacy options.

Blue Star Museums Program with the National Endowment for the Arts

By

Summertime is a period looked forward to by school-age children across the country. For some lucky military children, it will also mean moving to explore a new location and an opportunity to check out some new museums along the way. Thanks to the Blue Star Museums program, military children can explore these new places for free.

The Blue Star Museums program is a joint initiative with Blue Star Families and the National Endowment for the Arts. In collaboration with the Department of Defense and museums across America, it offers free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including the National Guard and Reserve. 

The 2024 Blue Star Museums program begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 18, 2024, and ends on Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2024. While the museum list grows throughout the summer as museums apply to participate, the 2024 Map is available online for planning purposes. There are a variety of museums to choose from across the country—here are some favorites.

The San Diego Automotive Museum

This museum will be a hit with anyone in your family who enjoys cars or history, showcasing a diverse collection of vintage and classic automobiles. Located in historic Balboa park, the museum offers fascinating journey through the evolution of automotive design, technology, and culture. For example, did you know there was a car that you could change a tire while it was operating? Interested in motorcycles? What about inspecting cars heralding the Downton Abbey era? This museum has it all!

Stafford Air and Space Museum

Located in Weatherford, Oklahoma, the museum is a captivating destination that celebrates the history and innovation of aviation and space exploration. Named after astronaut and Weatherford native Lt. General Thomas P. Stafford, the museum features a remarkable collection of aircraft, spacecraft, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore displays showcasing the achievements of pioneers in aviation and space travel, including the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. Kids of all ages can sit in aircraft, pulling levers and pushing buttons pretending fly.  The kids room allows for safe exploration and learning through dress up and imaginative play. The Stafford Air and Space Museum is a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of all ages.

The Washington Heritage Museums

The Washington Heritage Museums include five locations in Fredericksburg, Virginia: the Mary Washington House, the Rising Sun Tavern, Hugh Mercer Apothecary, St. James’ House and the Mary Washington Monument. The Washington Heritage Museums offer a captivating journey through America’s past that is not to be missed. The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop features talks on the medical practices of the 18th century. Explore the childhood home of George Washington’s mother at the Mary Washington House or learn about the 18th century hospitality at the Rising Sun Tavern. These museums highlight the colonial history that shaped the founding of our country.


The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum

Housed at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee, The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum features one of the largest private collections of memorabilia on Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War.  Check out the original Emancipation Proclamation, one of only five surviving copies signed by Lincoln, original manuscripts and rare photographs. Whether you’re a history buff, a student of politics, or simply curious about Lincoln’s enduring legacy, a visit to this museum is sure to be both informative and inspiring.

KidsQuest Children’s Museum

In Bellevue, Washington, this children’s museum features over 20 hands-on exhibits to engage children ages toddler to older age. From the water play area in the Water Gallery to the outdoor garden to the ThinkTank area, to the Bellevue Mercantile, where they can role-play as shopkeepers and customers in a mini-marketplace, children will love exploring this museum all while learning (and don’t even know it!)

From history museums, to learning about space to cars to children’s museums – the Blue Star Museums program has it all! Which museum do you recommend? Which one are looking forward to checking out this year?

Top 10 Reasons to Shop at the Sidewalk Sale

By

Shopping at the Sidewalk Sale at the commissary is an exciting event that offers numerous benefits for shoppers. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should make it a priority to shop at the Sidewalk Sale this year.

  1. Unbeatable Deals: Shoppers can expect to find incredible discounts and markdowns on a wide range of merchandise, allowing shoppers to score deep discounts on their favorite products. With prices slashed significantly, the Sidewalk Sale presents an opportunity to score great deals on high-quality items, and sometimes even in bulk-sizing, providing a great opportunity to save.
  2. Variety of Products: Whether you’re shopping for your usual grocery items or just checking out the sale to see what is available, there is a variety of items on sale. From canned goods to paper products to summer finds like popsicles and sports drinks to support hydration in the summer months, there are many different item types on offer.
  3. Unique Finds: If you stick to your usual items, you may not have noticed unique items or brands specific to your commissary location. Those in Japan may have local treats on offer. Check your local commissary for items that are traditionally available in the International Foods aisle.
  4. Convenient Location: The Sidewalk Sale is often held right outside the commissary, making it convenient for shoppers to browse the sale items before or after their usual grocery shopping.
  5. Family-Friendly Environment: The Sidewalk Sale is a family-friendly event with activities and entertainment for all ages, making it a fun outing for the whole family. Each sidewalk sale is different per location, but in the past there were bouncy houses, games to play for opportunities for prizes and giveaways of free items.
  6. Opportunity to Discover New Products: Numerous vendors showcase their products at the Sidewalk Sale, giving shoppers the chance to discover new and innovative items that they may not have encountered before.
  7. Community Support: Money spent at the commissary, stays within the community. Shopping at the sidewalk sale directly contributes to programs and services that benefit service members and their loved ones.
  8. Stock-Up: If you aren’t PCSing this summer, the sidewalk sale is a great time to stock up on goods like paper towels, toilet paper and boxed or canned goods for the summer and fall months. Look for coupons taped to items to double the deal. This is great for units to buy in bulk in preparation for unit events as well.
  9. Seasonal Specials: Depending on the time of year, the Sidewalk Sale may coincide with seasonal holidays or events, offering shoppers the chance to find themed merchandise and seasonal specials. Ready to gather up a box of popsicles to entertain the masses of neighborhood kids or need some extra snacks for summer sports travel season? The Sidewalk Sale has you covered.
  10. No sales tax. Not specific to the sidewalk sale, your commissary is always tax-free.

Check out when your local commissary will hold its sidewalk sale by checking out your local commissary page or watch for in-store advertisements and announcements.

Military Appreciation Month Discounts

By

May is Military Appreciation Month. With three federally recognized holidays featuring the military, Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day and Military Spouse Appreciation Day, it is not surprising that the month is designated as Military Appreciation Month. Do not feel one ounce of guilt asking if there is a military discount that your family can take advantage of this month. As a business owner once reminded me, she wouldn’t offer the discount if she didn’t want it used. Here are some discounts specific for the month of May.

Blue Star Museums is back this year to kick off military appreciation month and runs from Armed Forces Day to Labor Day. This program is a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, the DOD, and Blue Star Families. It offers free admission to participating museums across the United States to active-duty personnel, National Guard and their families. While this kicks off in May, it runs for the whole of the summer – be sure to check off some new-to you or old favorites this summer.

Where to Adventure

If you are looking to adventure in your local area, check to see if there is a discount offered on Armed Forces Day or on Memorial Day.

Don’t forget about the free annual pass America the Beautiful Pass from the National Parks to explore the National Parks across the United States.

Busch Gardens is offering Veterans a free one-day ticket with up to three guests to its parks located in Williamsburg and Tampa. This offer is valid until July 7th, 2024 and is activated through www.WavesofHonor.com. Active-duty can get up to four free tickets for themselves and immediate family members until the end of the year.

The Cincinnati Zoo is offering free admission on Memorial Day to the active-duty service member with up to six half-price admission tickets for the family members.

California’s Great America offers discounted admission active or retired military members with a ticket deal for up to six additional tickets for friends or family.

Colonial Williamsburg offers complimentary admission to active-duty military, reservists, National Guard, retired military personnel and veterans and up to three direct dependents on Memorial Day Weekend.

The Indianapolis Zoo is offering free admission to current and former military members on Memorial Day, and a $2 discount off admission to non-military family members.

SeaWorld is offering Veterans a free one-day ticket with up to three guests to its parks located in Williamsburg, Orlando and San Antonio. This offer is valid from May 12th, 2024  to July 7th, 2024 and is activated through www.WavesofHonor.com.

Worlds of Fun is offering a ticket deal on their website..

Where to Shop

Apple offers a 10% discount off their products throughout the year to active-duty military through their online verification.

If you are in need of a new cell phone plan, AT&T offers a 25% discount off their wireless plan to military and veteran families, T-Mobile offers discounts to active duty and veteran families off their wireless plans, and Verizon offers a discount on their wireless plans with a discount varying based on plan type.

Rack Room Shoes is offering a 20% discount on the entire in-store purchase on Memorial Day.

Looking for a new mattress? Sleep Numberoffers EXTRA 5% to 10% discount on smart beds & bases.

Don’t forget about Home Depot and Lowe’s as you prepare your home and garden for the summer season. Both stores offer a 10% discount year-round.

Where to Eat

Mission BBQ is offering a free sandwich to all active-duty service members and veterans during Armed Forces Week, each day is designated for the branch of service. Sign up for their email alerts to learn which day.

Is there a military discount or freebie you have found for month of the military appreciation? Let us know!

Start Thinking Ahead Before Hurricane Season Hits

By

Okinawa, Japan, has its typhoons. California has its earthquakes. Twisters usually stick within tornado alley. The east coast has hurricane season. For each location and natural phenomenon type, there is a different type of preparedness. If you are relocating to the hurricane zone, you are new to this preparation. Don’t be left behind or left scrambling to prepare at the last minute – be prepared as soon as possible for hurricane season.

Hurricane season begins on May 15th in the North Pacific and begins June 1st in the Atlantic and Caribbean. The storm season lasts until November 30th.

Plan

If you are moving to one of the hurricane zones, once you know where you are living, it is time to prepare for the storms to arrive. If you wait until a storm is announced, you may be too late to find the materials or supplies you need.

Boards for Windows – this can be in the form of storm shutters on the home you can close or plywood to cover the windows. Do NOT wait until a storm is on its way to purchase these. If you do, there may not be any plywood left.

Emergency List – know which emergency numbers you need to call in the event of an emergency in your area. This goes beyond 911. If there is a flooding or power outage in your home, know where these need to be reported to.

Emergency Supply Kit – This kit is meant to provide care to every member of the family to survive for several days after a natural disaster. Ready.gov has a build-a-kit downloadable list to make your own kit. The basics are one gallon of water per person for several days, food for several days for each family member, battery-powered radio and flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, whistle, masks for potential dust, plastic sheeting, and duct tape, moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, manual can opener, local maps, chargers and back up batteries for cell phone. It is also recommended to have basic tools of wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.  Make sure to have matches and a fire extinguisher in the kit. Don’t forget about medicine for everyone in the family.

Grab and Go kit – If you do need to evacuate, these items are items you should carry with you should your home flood or be unable to reach it after the hurricane. Have a plastic container with important family documents, including birth and marriage certificates, cash, and prescription and non-prescription medication. Have several changes of clothes for each family member in the kit in addition to games, books, or entertainment for everyone in the family.

Nearest Hurricane Evacuation Route – this may seem like a crazy thing to be looking for when looking for your new home, but it is better to be familiar with it before you are in a mad rush to find it.  In the event that a hurricane evacuation is announced, you will need to utilize the hurricane evacuation route. This usually includes reversing major roadways to allow for more traffic to leave than enter the evacuation zone. If your job is one that would require staying put in an emergency such as this, make sure your family knows the route, and you know where to avoid going. Each state lists the evacuation routes on its transportation website. Read more about using these routes on the FEMA website.

Get the Car Ready

If a hurricane is imminent, make sure to fill your car’s gas tank and move vehicles under cover like a carport or garage. If your car is in a garage, consider moving your emergency kit to the car so it is ready in case a hurricane evacuation is announced.

Prepare Your Home

As noted above, prepare the home by boarding and covering the windows. This protects you from shattered glass from winds.

Clean up the yard to avoid any potential debris being blown by the wind. Move bikes and outdoor equipment like a trampoline, grill, and lawn furniture inside.

Take care to trim any loose branches or trees that could hit the home.

Fill sinks and bathtubs with water for washing and flushing the toilet if water is lost.

If you see downed power lines near your home, turn off the power to your home.

Check the battery in the carbon monoxide detector to make sure it is working without electricity in case the power goes out or has to be turned off.

Watch versus Warning

According to the CDC, a hurricane watch is announced when hurricane conditions are possible in a stated area within 48 hours.

A hurricane warning is when hurricane-force winds are expected to occur in a stated area. The warnings are typically announced within 36 hours of expected landfall.

Among these two, the local area may also announce a hurricane evacuation timeline.

In Case of Evacuation

If you do have to evacuate your home, unplug devices and consider disconnecting power, gas and water to limit power surges and flooding.  Follow the reported evacuation route, making sure to follow any emergency workers who may be directing traffic flow.

If Staying Home

If you stay home, make sure you can reach your emergency kit and necessary paperwork and medication. Do not leave your home to test the wind or waters – you are not Jim Cantore. Listen to the radio for any announcements, including an evacuation announcement.

If you are moving to an area prone to hurricanes, ask your new neighbors and locals where they recommend finding emergency supplies, where the hurricane routes are, and any other questions you have. Don’t be afraid to ask ahead of hurricane season – this will keep you prepared for hurricane season.

Stock Up and Save with Commissary Sidewalk Sales

By

Sidewalk Sale Savings Coming to a Commissary Near You!

Commissary patrons stateside can stock up on their favorite items at significant savings during the Defense Commissary Agency’s Sidewalk Sales event throughout the month of May.

Sidewalk sales will offer extra savings on a variety of everyday products. Most stateside commissaries will hold these sales for three or four days, weather permitting.

Find out more on your commissary website page for sale dates and hours or talk to your store manager for more details.

We’ll see you at the commissary! 

Check out your Commissary’s sidewalk sale dates here

*Dates subject to change

Mother’s Day gifts for Moms Who Serve

By

Mother’s Day is the second Sunday in May – are you ready for it? We have broken down gifts for moms based on the five love languages. Have Mom take the Five Love Languages Test to determine the best way to fill up Mom’s cup. Then, find the love language on the list and see what would work best for your family. Plan ahead to avoid rushing around with these ideas for the Mom in your life who serves in the military.

Words of Affirmation

1.     Personalized affirmation jar: Have everyone in the family write notes or pictures with their favorite things about Mom and reasons why she is loved. The littlest members can draw pictures of Mom. Use a mason jar and design the outside to your liking—consider fingerprint art or using handprints for everyone in the family. This is sure to be a tearjerker.

2.     Handwritten letter or card: You can’t go wrong writing all your thoughts on how awesome Mom is on a card.

3.     Personalized photo book: Add in those words of affirmation along with pictures of the family. Make sure to include photos of Mom!

4.     Wall Art: Choose Mom’s favorite quote or affirmation and have it printed and framed. You can also design and create the artwork at home and give it to Mom.

5.     Personalized Gratitude Journal: Have so much to say it wouldn’t fit in a jar? Have everyone write down their reasons for appreciation for Mom in a journal and hand it to her on Mother’s Day. Be sure to have tissues nearby!

Quality Time

1.     Plan individual dates: Whether you have a small or big family, quality time is not always easy to coordinate. Plan out dates with Mom for one-on-one time and write these on coupons. If quality time is her love language, this will for sure fill her up!

2.     Sign up for a cooking or baking class together. Check out the local library or community college for classes as sometimes they hold family events.

3.     Plan a family getaway: Whether locally or further out, plan a getaway together. Personalize this based on preference—hiking in a local park, heading out to a theme park, or checking off something from your travel bucket list.

4.     Family Project: Do you have a project you want to do? Perhaps you want to add a garden or renovate that older furniture piece. Make Mother’s Day the day you spend time together tackling that project and spending quality time together.

Physical Touch

1. Mommy Spa Day: Make a spa day at home with a complete foot bath, pedicure, manicure, and massage, all while giving Mom her physical touch. Include scented candles, body scrub, bath salts, and a soft towel.

2.     Aromatherapy Oils: Give mom the treat of oils for different occasions to rub on to address those occasions.

3. Massage Gift Certificate: Give the gift of downtime and relaxation with a gift certificate for Mom to get a professional massage.

4. Foot Massager: A foot massager for home or even work provides a relaxing way to take a break.

5.  Soft throw blanket: Look for a cozy blanket made of cashmere, fleece, or faux fur for a cozy blanket for Mom to snuggle up with. Want to personalize it? There are companies that will recycle t-shirts or even baby clothes into cozy quilts.

Acts of Service

  1. Coupon Book: Give mom the ability to ask for things but without asking with a coupon book of things you can do for her.
  2. Professional Cleaner: If you don’t have the ability or time to clean at home, hire a professional cleaner to clean the house deep. This is an act of service that possibly allows moms to have more quality time or much-needed downtime.
  3. Subscription Service: Sign your mom up for a subscription service that aligns with her interests or hobbies. Whether it’s a meal kit delivery service, a monthly book club subscription, or a streaming service for her favorite shows, it’s a gift that keeps giving.
  4. Car Wash: Take the car to get a car wash and detail, or hire a service that will come to her!
  5. Tackle a Project: Is there a project around the house that Mom needs to do? Now is the time to do it!

Gifts

  1. Ember Mug: Caffeine in all its forms is how most mothers function and an Ember Mug keeps a said cup of tea or coffee warm without the ten trips to the microwave.
  2. Tea or Coffee: As said above – caffeine in all its forms. Mother’s Day is the time to splurge on the luxurious coffee or tea Mom enjoys but doesn’t usually purchase for herself.
  3. Favorite Treat: What is the treat that Mom doesn’t get herself but loves? Surprise Mom with her favorite treat; it’s something she won’t really expect!].
  4. A Book on her TBR List: For the reader Mom, give her the book she wants to read but hasn’t yet—and perhaps cut out some time so she can sit and read it.
  5. Something Handmade: Whether it’s jewelry, artwork, or a paper flower, giving Mom a handmade gift is a gift and a gift of time.

These gifts demonstrate thoughtfulness, care, and a willingness to understand Mom’s needs, allowing her to feel valued and cherished on Mother’s Day. Happy Mother’s Day!

Military Appreciation Month

By

May officially named Military Appreciation Month to recognize and celebrate those currently serving and previously served in the military. The month holds several specific holidays recognizing military members – Military Spouse Appreciation Day is the Friday before Mother’s Day in May.  Armed Forces Day is the third Saturday in May, and Memorial Day is the last Monday in May.

Military Appreciation Discounts

Many businesses across the nation offer discounts to the military in honor of Military Appreciation Month. Some of these discounts are offered year-round – like the Waves of Honor program offering free admission to active duty military and their family members at Busch Gardens, Sea World and Sesame Place locations.  Colonial Williamsburg offers free admission for active-duty military, Reservists, National Guard personnel, retired military and veterans, and up to three direct dependents on Memorial Day weekend. In the past, Legoland Discovery Centers have offered a higher discounted admission for the month of May to military members than their baseline military discount. These businesses offer discounts or free admission to thank military families for their service while allowing them to spend quality time together.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day

Military Spouse Appreciation Day is a day set aside to recognize military spouses’ contributions to supporting their Active-Duty partners. The unpredictable schedules, deployments, reintegration, training and separations are all managed by military spouses at home. President Ronald Regan established Military Spouse Appreciation Day in 1984 as part of Proclamation 5184. Many installations and units will celebrate military spouse appreciation with special appreciation events.

If able to, show your military spouse appreciation by thanking them for all they have done, giving them a day off, or simply doing things to help that he/she may not like to do around the house. Record a video expressing your gratitude if you are deployed or out of the area when Military Spouse Appreciation Day occurs.

Armed Forces Day

Armed Forces Day is the third Saturday in May. Armed Forces Day is a day set aside to recognize and celebrate military members actively serving. President Truman announced the formation of the holiday, specifically stating, “Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, 1950, marks the first combined demonstration by America’s defense team of its progress, under the National Security Act, towards the goal of readiness for any eventuality. It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense”.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday in May as a way to reflect on and remember those who served and paid the ultimate price for our freedom. While it has only been an official holiday for about 60 years, it has been a day set apart since after the Civil War.

Honor those who served by visiting memorials. Washington, DC, has several memorials, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and World War II Memorial. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is near Constitution Gardens with three distinct parts: Three Soldiers Statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. The Wall lists over 58,000 names of those who passed serving in the war. The Korean War Memorial honors those who served and lost their lives with statues representing the armed forces and a list of those who lost their lives in the Pool of Remembrance. The World War II Memorial honors the 16 million individuals who served during the war with a memorial with representation for the 48 states and seven federal territories.

Outside of Washington, D.C., the World War II Museum in New Orleans is a great place to visit, learn about the war, and remember those lives lost on not just Memorial Day but every day. Check your local area for memorials that may be specific to your location. There may be ceremonies on Memorial Day specifically to honor those who paid the ultimate price, and this provides an opportunity to take the time to honor and remember them.

Contact your local military cemetery to see if they need help laying flags or flowers on the graves of those who died in service.

While Military Appreciation Month may be just a month, military members serve every day around the globe. Thank you for your unwavering service.

What Does Military Service Look Like in 2024?

By

Over the past two decades, the landscape of military service has undergone significant transformation. On the news, you see active service of serving during Operation Enduring Freedom, Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, moldy barracks, and issues with on-base military housing. The military lifestyle doesn’t sound so glamorous. Serve in a desert? Live in a barrack room with mold? Risk life and limb for what pay? What is good about serving in 2024?

Serving in the military in 2024 offers many benefits and opportunities for individuals seeking a meaningful and rewarding career path. As the world continues evolving, so does the military’s role. The military is not just a presence for war but also to pursue technological developments. The world as we know it is changing. And while it doesn’t have the flying hoverboards that Back to the Future predicted, it has some pretty amazing technological advances. Drones are utilized not just for Amazon deliveries, but for intelligence gathering. Cyberskills are needed to rival that of Timothy McGee’s character on NCIS. While McGee is just a character, cyber and gaming skills are skills utilized in the military sphere.

The military provides opportunities for individual professional development and advancement. Through certificates, training, and specific schools through the years, the military offers a way to advance in their current field. Whether through on-the-job training, advanced education programs, or specialized certifications, military personnel have access to resources and opportunities for professional growth that can benefit them both during their time in service and beyond. The military offers tuition assistance, allowing military members to pursue higher education with cost assistance. On each installation, community colleges or universities offer classes and certificates for areas of interest. These allow for an expansion of learning and interests.

Service in the military provides individuals with a sense of purpose and belonging that is unparalleled in any other profession. Military service is not just a job; it is a commitment to something greater than oneself—defending the nation, upholding freedom and democracy, and protecting the rights and liberties of others. This sense of duty and honor instills a deep sense of pride and fulfillment in service members, who know that their contributions are making a difference in the world and leaving a legacy for future generations.

Military service provides networking opportunities. When pursuing their individual interests through shared experiences, the military members and their families build a network of individuals. This network is called upon throughout time in the military career, but also once out of the military field for either career opportunities or continued personal relationships.

Serving in the military provides opportunities for leadership and responsibility at every level. From leading small teams and units to commanding large-scale operations, military personnel are entrusted with significant responsibilities that test their leadership abilities and decision-making skills. These leadership experiences contribute to personal growth and development and prepare service members for leadership roles in civilian careers or future endeavors.

In conclusion, serving in the military in 2024 offers many advantages and opportunities for individuals seeking a rewarding and fulfilling career path. From professional development and educational opportunities, military service provides a unique combination of benefits that can enrich the lives of service members and their families. As the world continues to evolve, the military’s role remains as vital as ever, ensuring the safety, security, and prosperity of our nation and its citizens.

Maintaining a Strong Marriage in the Military

By

Maintaining open communication and continuing to date each other are essential pillars in nurturing a thriving and lasting marriage. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy for couples to lose sight of the importance of investing time into the relationship. This is especially true for military couples, where the busyness of life is coupled with deployments, training, and lengthy separation from each other. Find ways to connect to build the relationship up and build resilience.

Use Your Unit Resources

Ask the unit chaplain for events at the unit. Some units have dinners with presentations by the chaplain on topics of interest like communication, the Five Love Languages, or reintegration.

If your unit has a Military and Family Life Counselor (MFLC), ask if they are holding events. Date night events held by the unit are great ways to enjoy fellowship with your spouse, have tasty food and maybe enjoy an activity together. We have been to Date Night events with a “Paint and Sip” theme, and others solely working on reintegration through open communication.

If you have children, ask about events with childcare. Most events run by the chaplain’s office offer free childcare, but some may charge a nominal fee.

  • CREDO

The Navy sponsors the Chaplains Religious Enrichment Development Operation (CREDO) program. The CREDO program offers retreats and workshop programs for Navy and Marine Corps families. The program is divided into regions: CREDO Southwest is based out of San Diego, CREDO MidAtlantic in Norfolk, VA, CREDO Northeast in Connecticut, Pacific Northwest in Washington, Hawaii, Okinawa and Europe in their respective areas.

These areas hold various programs, specifically look for Marriage Retreats. Most, if not all, marriage retreats do not include childcare but some families have swapped childcare for friends so they can each attend a retreat over the year. The marriage workshops do often include childcare, so if that is needed for you and your spouse to get out for a date together, then let that no longer be a barrier!

Date Your Spouse

It is not easy dating your spouse. There are so many variables pulling at the spouses – work, life, the house chores, the car chores, taking care of children. Dating your spouse is an investment in your relationship that pays rich dividends. Carve out that time to date your spouse. So, whether it’s a romantic dinner, a fun outing, or simply a date at home, make the commitment to date your spouse regularly – it’s the key to keeping your love story alive and thriving.

Date Night In

The reality for military families is that the frequent moves make it difficult to have consistent, known childcare. If you recently moved or are in the season without a babysitter but need one to have date nights out on the town, it might be time for date nights in.

Here are some ideas for date nights in after putting the kids to bed:

  • Cooking Class at Home: Choose a new recipe or cuisine you both want to try and cook it together. Turn it into a fun cooking class with YouTube tutorials or cooking websites guiding you through the process. Sign up for events from the USO, as they offer virtual cooking classes with renown chefs like Duff Goldman.
  • Movie Marathon: Pick a movie series or genre you both love and have a movie marathon night. Create a comfortable viewing area with blankets, pillows, and snacks, and enjoy a cinematic adventure from the comfort of your home.
  • Board Game Night: Dust off your favorite board games or try out new ones. Engage in some friendly competition while enjoying snacks and drinks.
  • Home Spa Night: Transform your home into a spa with candles, soothing music, and luxurious bathrobes. Take turns giving each other massages, facials, or foot soaks for a relaxing and rejuvenating evening.
  • Book Club Date: Select a book that interests both of you and take turns reading it aloud to each other. Discuss the plot, characters, and themes over a glass of wine or cup of tea for a literary date night at home.

Air Force Give Parents A Break Program

The Air Force has a special program called Give Parents A Break (GPAB). The program is funded by the Air Force Aid Society and provides relief for active-duty Air Force and Space Force parents who are experiencing stress. Families are referred to the program and given a certificate for free childcare, which is offered once a month.

By prioritizing communication, support, and mutual understanding, military couples can cultivate a strong and resilient marriage that withstands the demands of military service.