A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies

A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
By Sheryl Garrett and Sue Hoppin
Foreword By Tanya Biank
Author of Army Wives
Contents at a Glance
Foreword xxi
Introduction 1
Part I: Reporting for Duty 7
Chapter 1: Living Life As a Military Family .9
Chapter 2: Figuring Out Customs and Courtesies .19
Chapter 3: Getting Around Military Bases 31
Chapter 4: Connecting with the Military Community 49
Part II: Understanding Your Financial Issues
and Benefits 59
Chapter 5: Deciphering Military Compensation 61
Chapter 6: Taking Care of Yourself: Health and Dental Insurance 73
Chapter 7: Maximizing Military Benefits .87
Chapter 8: Starting Out on the Right Financial Foot .97
Chapter 9: Building onto Your Financial Foundation 113
Chapter 10: Housing Options for the Military Family .131
Chapter 11: Finding Employment and Educational Opportunities 149
Part III: Supporting the Military Family 165
Chapter 12: Raising a Family in the Military 167
Chapter 13: Maintaining Strong Military Couples 179
Chapter 14: Tapping into Community Support .191
Chapter 15: Dealing with the Disability or Death of a Family Member .205
Part IV: Mastering Deployments . 217
Chapter 16: Prepping for Deployments .219
Chapter 17: Accessing Traditional Family Support .239
Chapter 18: Helping Children Cope with the Absence of a Parent 247
Chapter 19: Keeping Connected with Your Loved One 263
Part V: Transitioning Out of the Military . 271
Chapter 20: Separating from Service .273
Chapter 21: Retiring from Service .283
Chapter 22: Exploring Subsequent Careers 293Part VI: The Part of Tens 305
Chapter 23: Ten Best Benefi ts for Military Spouses 307
Chapter 24: Ten Biggest Financial Military Benefits 311
Chapter 25: Ten Worst Scams Against Servicemembers 317
Appendix: Military Acronyms . 321
Index 341Table of Contents
Foreword .xxi
Introduction . 1
About This Book 1
Conventions Used in this Book 2
Foolish Assumptions .2
How This Book is Organized 3
Part I: Reporting for Duty 3
Part II: Understanding Your Financial Issues and Benefits .3
Part III: Supporting the Military Family .4
Part IV: Mastering Deployments 4
Part V: Transitioning Out of the Military 4
Part VI: The Part of Tens .4
Icons Used in This Book .4
Where to Go from Here 5
Part I: Reporting for Duty . 7
Chapter 1: Living Life As a Military Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Getting a Grasp on the Military Culture 9
Believing in something bigger than yourself .10
Making lifelong connections .10
Being Flexible — the Key to a Happy Military Life 12
Adjusting to different directions 12
Adapting to a changing homelife .13
Keeping education and employment flexible .13
Traveling the world . . . If you want to 14
Overseas assignments .14
Space-available travel 14
Speaking in Code: Learning the Military Language .16
Embracing the Place Where Everybody Knows Your Name 17
Choosing to Live on the Installation — Or Not 17
Chapter 2: Figuring Out Customs and Courtesies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Separating Myths from Reality 19
Understanding Rank and Military Hierarchy .20
Checking out the different ranks .21
Understanding that rank does have its place 24
Reveling in the privileges of rank 24xii A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
Keeping Up with Traditions and Ceremonies .25
The salute .25
The National Anthem 26
The Stars and Stripes 26
Reveling in inter-service Rivalry 27
Ceremonies .27
Finding Your Place in the Grand Plan .28
Getting involved . . . or not .28
Making friends 29
Watching Your P’s and Q’s: Party Protocol .29
Chapter 3: Getting Around Military Bases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) 31
Making sense of DEERS .32
Registering in DEERS .32
Verifying and updating information 32
Making It Offi cial — Getting a Military ID Card 34
Getting Your Rest 35
Shopping 36
Commissary 36
Exchanges .37
Shoppettes 38
Class 6 .39
Eating on the Installations .39
The dining hall 39
The clubs .40
Having Fun with MWR .41
Fitness and sports center .41
Skills development center 41
Everything else .42
Focusing on the Family .42
Family support center .43
Child development center 43
Youth and teen centers .44
Picking up on Personal Services 44
Auto hobby shop .44
Banking 45
Military treatment facility (MTF) .45
Getting the Support You Need .46
Chapel 46
Clubs and groups .47
Family Advocacy Programs 48
Chapter 4: Connecting with the Military Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Connecting to the Unit 49
Utilizing your sponsor .50
Keeping contact info current 50
Staying in the loop .51Table of Contents xiii
Marking military family milestones .51
Attending Hails and Farewells 52
Discovering other social activities 52
Making merry with holiday parties .53
Understanding the ins and outs of Dining In and Out .54
Marking Military Milestones .55
Promotions .55
Change of command .56
Retirement ceremonies 56
Finding Support within the Installation 57
Part II: Understanding Your Financial Issues
and Benefits 59
Chapter 5: Deciphering Military Compensation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Sifting through Sources of Pay .61
Basic pay .62
Additional pays 62
Allowances 64
Taking time off — Leave 66
Demystifying the pay statement 67
Explaining the LES .67
Allotments .68
Making Sense Out of Taxes .70
Understanding what compensation is taxable .71
Exploring ways to reduce your tax bite 72
Chapter 6: Taking Care of Yourself:
Health and Dental Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Exploring TRICARE 74
Breaking down the basic of TRICARE 74
TRICARE Standard .75
TRICARE Extra 76
TRICARE Prime .77
Prescription drug coverage 80
Summarizing healthcare options .80
Enrolling in TRICARE .81
Sizing up TRICARE Health Benefi ts for the Guard and Reserve 82
Checking the basics of your options .82
TRICARE Reserve Select 83
Understanding Dental Benefits 84
Explaining Your Benefits 85
Chapter 7: Maximizing Military Benefi ts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Tapping into the Family Support Center 87
Accessing Military OneSource .88xiv A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
Traveling Space-A 88
Looking into Lodging Bargains 89
Protecting Your Rights — Legal Issues .90
Getting the lowdown on the law 90
Finding legal assistance 91
Reviewing Your Military-Provided Life Insurance .92
Servicemembers’ group life insurance 92
Traumatic SGLI .93
Family service group life insurance .94
Exploring Your Retirement Benefits .94
Finding out how retirement benefi ts are calculated .94
Chapter 8: Starting Out on the Right Financial Foot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
Determining Your Required Monthly Expenses 97
Making it automatic 99
Establishing Emergency Reserves .100
Recognizing the reality of not having reserves 100
Reserving funds for financial emergencies .100
Building and Maintaining a Solid Credit History .101
Obtaining Appropriate Insurance Coverage 102
Servicemember’s life insurance .102
Family member’s life insurance .103
Spousal disability insurance .104
Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance 104
Automobile insurance .106
Beginning Investing .107
Investing according to your purpose 107
Leveraging time 108
Getting started .109
Chapter 9: Building onto Your Financial Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
Accumulating What You’ll Need for Specific Goals .113
Purchasing a Home 115
Determining how much you can spend on a house .115
Reviewing mortgages 117
Coming up with your down payment 118
Planning for Children’s College Costs .119
Securing Your Retirement 121
Preparing for the Inevitable .123
Answering key questions to get started .124
Communicating your wishes through legal documents .125
Accounting for ownership and beneficiary designations .127
Chapter 10: Housing Options for the Military Family. . . . . . . . . . . . . .131
Understanding the Basic Allowance for Housing 131
Basic allowance for housing — CONUS 132
Overseas housing allowance 133Table of Contents xv
Considering On-Base Housing 134
Exploring Off-Base Housing 135
Leasing 136
Buying .137
Tax benefits 137
Major considerations 138
Buying versus renting .139
Rehabbing a property .140
Becoming an absentee landlord .141
Evaluating your financing options .142
Relocating .145
Assessing relocation assistance 145
Establishing community at your new location .146
Keeping in touch as you move around in the military 147
Chapter 11: Finding Employment and Educational Opportunities . . . . 149
Professional Military Education 150
Finding Educational Funding 150
Montgomery GI Bill .150
Post-9/11 GI Bill 152
Tuition Assistance .153
Scholarships and financial aid .153
Continuing Education for Spouses 154
Developing a plan that works .154
Tuition assistance programs 155
Finding Employment Opportunities for Military Spouses 155
Getting ready to work 156
Cost-benefi t analysis of working outside the home 156
Strategic volunteering .157
Employment support .158
Department of Defense and Department of Labor Initiatives 159
Self-employment .160
Military spouse preference program .160
Putting it all together 161
State initiatives to support military families 163
Part III: Supporting the Military Family . 165
Chapter 12: Raising a Family in the Military . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167
Finding Childcare 168
Occasional or part-time care 168
Comparing on-base vs. off-base options .169
Educating the Kids 171
Making smart decisions 171
Department of Defense schools .172
Leaving the nest .173xvi A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
Moving Around 174
Focusing on the positive .174
Joining in sports and recreational activities 175
Making sure that your kid’s best friend comes along .176
Staying in touch .177
Chapter 13: Maintaining Strong Military Couples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
Communicating Effectively .180
Dealing with your long-distance relationship 180
Managing expectations .182
Respecting one another 183
Unplugging .186
Accessing Help to Make Your Marriage Healthier 187
Divorcing 187
Chapter 14: Tapping into Community Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .191
Starting at Square One 191
Getting Support for the Guard and Reserve .192
Finding Support at the State Level 193
Supporting Military Families .195
The United Service Organizations (USO) 195
Fisher House Foundation 196
Growing Grassroots Military Support .196
Checking out grassroots efforts .196
Getting to know America Supports You 198
Searching the Web for Support 199
Connecting through online communities .199
Burning up the airwaves .200
Tapping into The Military Coalition (TMC) 200
Discovering what TMC is all about 201
Figuring out how you fit in 202
Chapter 15: Dealing with the Disability or
Death of a Family Member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205
Dealing with Disability 205
Traumatic brain injuries .206
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) .206
Medical review boards 207
Medical retirement 208
Veterans Administration benefits 209
Other disability resources 209
Surviving the Death of a Servicemember .210
Giving and receiving friendly support .210
Working with the Casualty Assistance Officer .211
Filing for benefits .212
Understanding your military benefits .213
Moving on .214Table of Contents xvii
Support groups 214
Planning ahead .215
Part IV: Mastering Deployments 217
Chapter 16: Prepping for Deployments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219
Separating the Truths from the Myths .219
Preparing for Deployment 220
Powers of attorney 221
Financial planning 222
Taking Advantage of Special Deployment Benefits .225
Getting direct deposit .225
Saving in the best plan available 226
Receiving tax-free combat pay and benefits .226
Ensuring reemployment: USERRA .227
Understanding the Emotional Cycles of Deployment .227
Preparing for them to go .228
Creating walls before they leave 229
Establishing your new normal 230
Getting settled 230
Anticipating their return .230
Coming back together as a family 232
Finding your family groove again 233
Smoothing out the rough spots .235
Managing Stress .236
Chapter 17: Accessing Traditional Family Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .239
Finding Support on Base .239
FSC — Family support center .239
Turning to faith-based solutions 241
Participating in Family Readiness Groups (FRG) .241
Having some fun and giving back 242
Getting Support Online .243
Looking Outside the Fishbowl .245
Chapter 18: Helping Children Cope
with the Absence of a Parent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .247
Understanding the Effects of Deployment on Children 247
Maintaining Routine 248
Communicating 249
Encouraging open communication 249
Explaining difficult topics .251
Managing Anxiety 252
Staying Involved from a Distance 253
Letting Kids be Kids 254
Setting Realistic Expectations 254xviii A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
Looping in the Caregivers and Teachers 255
Sharing Responsibilities .256
Seeing the Light at the End of the Tunnel 257
Getting Away 258
Taking some time off .258
Looking forward to a family vacation 258
Bringing Daddy Back into the Fold 260
Chapter 19: Keeping Connected with Your Loved One . . . . . . . . . . . .263
Communicating Securely 263
Using the Internet 264
Making phone calls 264
Sharing a Piece of Home .265
Celebrating Special Occasions .266
Staying Connected .267
Managing Anxiety 268
Part V: Transitioning Out of the Military 271
Chapter 20: Separating from Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .273
Preparing for Separation 273
Transition assistance program 274
Getting your records in order 274
Relocating .275
Employment education and training .275
Health insurance 276
Pre-separation examinations 276
Life insurance .277
Retirement savings 277
Legal assistance .277
Clarifying Voluntary versus Involuntarily Separation from Service .278
Administrative separation 278
Punitive discharge .279
Considering Early Career Separation 280
Exploring Late Career Separation Issues 281
Chapter 21: Retiring from Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .283
Assessing the Financial Benefi ts of Retiring from the Military 283
Military retired pay 283
Survivor Benefit Plan .286
Medical Benefits .287
Checking out your healthcare benefits .288
Making the most of your military retiree benefits .288
Envisioning Life after the Military .289
Adjusting to the civilian world .289
Evaluating your need for additional retirement savings 290Table of Contents xix
Supplementing your retirement income .291
Strategizing the best ways to save for ultimate retirement 291
Chapter 22: Exploring Subsequent Careers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .293
Transitioning from the Military .293
Planning for your next career .293
Preparing for this transition .295
Tapping into military and community benefits .295
Evaluating Employer Benefits 297
Medical insurance 297
Prescription drug coverage 299
Dental insurance 299
Vision benefits 299
Disability insurance — short term and long term .300
Long-term care insurance .300
Life insurance .301
Retirement plans 302
Health savings accounts .303
Flexible spending plans .303
Paid vacations and holidays .304
Overtime .304
Education assistance .304
Part VI: The Part of Tens . 305
Chapter 23: Ten Best Benefi ts for Military Spouses . . . . . . . . . . . . . .307
Travel .307
Education and Employment Assistance .308
Healthcare 308
Commissary/Exchange .308
Family Support Centers 309
Free Professional and Personal Development .309
Free Support and Assistance .309
Discounts 309
Recreating Yourself Every Few Years .310
Meeting Other Spouses .310
Chapter 24: Ten Biggest Financial Military Benefi ts . . . . . . . . . . . . .311
Retirement Benefits .311
Survivor Benefit Plan .312
Healthcare 312
Housing .313
Education 313
Travel 313
VA Loans .314
Servicemembers Group Life Insurance .314Legal Assistance 314
Family Support Center 315
Chapter 25: Ten Worst Scams Against Servicemembers . . . . . . . . . .317
Sending Money to Injured Servicemembers .317
Protecting Your Privacy .318
Repairing Your Credit .318
Falling for Get-Rich-Quick Schemes 318
Outsmarting the SBP .319
Paying Too Much for Financial Advice .319
Investing a Tax Shelter inside of a Tax Shelter 319
Investing in the New, New Thing .320
Hedging Your Risks with Gold or Oil 320
Considering Payday Loans .320
Appendix: Military Acronyms 321
Index . 341
Index
• Numerics •
26-1880, VA Form, 143
140, Air Mobility Command Form (Space-A
sign-up), 89
214, DD Form (certifi cate of release/
discharge), 274–275
397, DD Form (Death Gratuity
Payment), 212
401(k) retirement plan, 302–303
403(b) retirement plan, 302
1172, DD Form (DEERS enrollment) (Web
site), 32
2558, DD Form (allotments from pay),
70, 99
2642, DD Form (TRICARE claim form), 76
2648, DD Form (pre-separation counseling
checklist), 274, 295
3286, SGLI Election and Certifi cate Form, 92
8283, SGLV Form, 212
• A •
AAFES (Army and Air Force Exchange
Service), 37
ABCTE (American Board for Certification
of Teacher Excellence), 163
absentee landlord, becoming, 141–142
ABU (Airman Battle Uniform), 16
ACE (automated certifi cate of eligibility)
system, 143
acronyms and abbreviations, 321–340
additional pays, 62–64
adjustable compared to fixed-rate
mortgages, 117, 118, 144
administrative separations from service,
278–279
advocacy organizations, 200–203
AER (Army Emergency Relief), 213
AFAS (Air Force Aid Society), 213
AFSC (Armed Forces Services Corporation)
(Web site), 213
Air Force, U.S.
discontinuance of rank decals for cars, 24
ranks in, 22, 23
Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs), 24
Air Force Aid Society (AFAS), 213
Air Mobility Command fact sheet (Web
site), 15
Air Mobility Command Form 140 (Space-A
sign-up), 89
aircrews, extra pay for, 62
Airman Battle Uniform (ABU), 16
Airmen and Family Support Center, 43. See
also FSC (Family Support Center)
allotments from pay, 68, 70, 99–100, 123
allowances, financial
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), 39,
65–66, 68, 131–133
Basic Allowance for Sustenance (BAS),
64–65
clothing, 65
Cost of Living Allowance (COLA),
64, 95, 287
dislocation allowance (DLA), 66
exemption from tax, 132
Family Separation Allowance, 66, 226
per diem, 65
personal allowances to high-ranking
officers, 71
temporary lodging overseas, 66
America Supports You (Web site),
198–199, 258
American Board for Certification of
Teacher Excellence (ABCTE), 163
American Telecommuting Association
(Web site), 158
An Analysis of Military Disability
Compensation (Buddin), 210
anxiety
children’s moving, 171
managing during deployment, 252–253,
268–269
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
206, 209–210, 235342 A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
Armed Forces Services Corporation (AFSC)
(Web site), 213
Armed Forces Vacation Club, 259
Army, U.S., ranks in, 22, 23
Army and Air Force Exchange Service
(AAFES), 37
Army Community Services, 43. See also
FSC (Family Support Center)
Army Emergency Relief (AER), 213
arts and crafts center, 41–42
asset transfer strategies, estate
planning, 128
authorized healthcare providers, defined,
74, 75
auto hobby shop, 44–45
automated certifi cate of eligibility (ACE)
system, 143
automatic debits from checking
account, 100
automobile insurance (Web site), 106–107
aviation offi cer specialty pay, 63
• B •
bad-conduct discharge, 279
BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing), 65–66,
68, 131–133
banking, 45, 101
BankRate.com (Web site), 116, 117
Barber, Allison (Deputy Asst. Sec. of
Defense), 198
barracks and dorms overview, 35
base (facility). See installation
base exchange (BX), 37–39, 308
base pay, 62, 71, 94–95, 284–285
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), 65–66,
68, 131–133
Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), 39,
64–65
benefi ciary designations, estate planning,
128–129
Benefi ciary Web Enrollment (Web site), 33
benefits. See also veteran’s benefits
civilian employer compared to military,
297–304
community services. See community
network
compensation. See compensation
deployment-related, 225–227, 240
education. See education
employment of spouses, 156–157, 308
Guard and Reserve, guide for, 192–193
healthcare. See healthcare benefits
housing. See housing
legal assistance, 90–92, 188, 207–208,
277–278, 314
post-death of spouse, continuation of, 213
retirement. See retirement
Social Security, 212, 290–291
travel, 10, 14, 307–308, 313. See also space
available (Space-A) travel
unemployment compensation for
spouses, 163, 194
bill paying, automatic methods for, 99, 100
billeting/lodging facilities, 35, 66, 90
blogging during deployment, 264
bonuses, special pay, 63, 64, 71
brain injuries, 206
Bucci, Stephen R. (author)
Credit Repair Kit For Dummies, 318
Buddin, Richard J. (author)
An Analysis of Military Disability
Compensation, 210
budgeting, 224
business lease termination right, 91
buying a house, 137–144
BX (base exchange), 37–39, 308
• C •
CAC (Common Access Card), 81
car insurance, 106–107
care packages, 265–266
career assessment for transition to civilian
employment, 294–295
Career Status Bonus (CSB/REDUX), 95,
284–285
CareerOneStop (Web site), 296
casualty assistance officer, 211–213
CDC (child development center), 43–44,
169–170
ceremonies
change of command, 27, 56
Dining In/Out, 54–55Index 343
etiquette overview, 25–28
promotion, 55
retirement, 27, 56
retreat and reveille, 27
certifi cate of eligibility for VA loan, 143
certifi cation requirements and relocating
employment, 163
CGMA (Coast Guard Mutual Aid), 213
CGX (Coast Guard Exchange), 37
change of command ceremony, 27, 56
chapel, 46, 48, 57, 241
chaplain, 46, 187, 241
CHCBP (Continued Health Care Benefit
Program), 188, 276
child development center (CDC), 43–44,
169–170
childcare
center as anchor for child during
deployment, 255–256
fl exible spending plan, 303
options for, 43–44, 168–171
reimbursement for volunteers, 158
children
challenges to marital relationship, 184
childcare options, 43–44, 158, 168–171,
255–256, 303
college cost planning, 119–121
communicating with, 249–251
deployments
behavior expectations, 254
caregiver and teacher roles, 255–256
emotional issues, 231, 234, 247–248,
252–253
expectations about contact with parent,
254–255
informing deployed parent about family
situation, 253–254
maintaining routines during, 248–249
parental absence issue, 167
sharing responsibilities during, 256–257
divorce, relationship to, 188–189
education of, 43, 119–121, 171–174, 214
extra-curricular programs for, 192
fi tness center restrictions, 41
grassroots movements to support
military, 197
grief support for survivor, 213, 214–215
guardians in will planning, 125
introduction, 167
life insurance for, 103
military ID rules for, 34
moving challenges, handling, 171, 174–177
national anthem etiquette, 26
sharing information with deployed
servicemember, 267–268
space available (Space-A) travel, 307–308
Youth and Teen Center, 44, 176, 251
chow hall facilities, 39
churches
childcare at, 169
on-base chapel, 46, 48, 57, 241
civilian careers, post-transition
employer benefi ts evaluation, 297–304
transition resources, 292–297
Class 6 store, 39
classifi ed ads, 162
clothing allowance, 65
clubs
food/entertainment, 40
overview, 47–48, 57
spouse clubs, 16, 47–48, 242–243
vacation, 259
Coast Guard, U.S., ranks in, 22, 23
Coast Guard Academy (New London), 24
Coast Guard Exchange (CGX), 37
Coast Guard Mutual Aid (CGMA), 213
COLA (Cost of Living Allowance),
64, 95, 287
College Board (Web site), 120
college education
in-state tuition benefit, 194
investing tax-free money in, 72
planning for children’s, 119–121,
173–174, 214
servicemember benefi ts, 10, 150–154, 155,
163, 275, 313
spouse’s benefi ts, 154–155, 308
Combat Dining Out, 55
combat zone pay, exclusion from taxes, 72
Comfort Zone Camps (Web site), 215
commissary, 16, 36–37, 308
commission, offi cer’s, for warrant
officers, 21344 A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
commissioned officers
ranks among, 21, 22
sources of commission, 24
commodities, risks of investing in, 320
Common Access Card (CAC), 81
communication
importance for military families, 179–185,
263–265
security issue, 148, 199, 263–264
community network
accessing for employment assistance, 158
as children’s school options
resource, 171
establishing post-move, 146–147
Fisher House Foundation, 196
grassroots efforts to support troops,
196–199
for Guard and Reserve, 192–193
introduction, 191–192
keeping in touch with friends/family, 177
maintaining through multiple moves, 147
off-base deployment support, 245
post-retirement connections, 289
spousal friendships, 310
state-level, 193–195
support overview, 10–11
TMC, 200–203
USO, 195
Web-based, 147–148, 199–200
company grade officer, defi ned, 25
compensation. See also allowances
base pay, 62, 71, 94–95, 284–285
incentive pay, 71
introduction, 61
overtime pay in civilian employment, 304
pay statement, 67–70
pay taken in lieu of leave, 71
retirement pay, 283–286
sources of pay overview, 61–67
specialty pays, 62, 63, 64, 71
taxes, 68, 70–72
compound interest and investment
appreciation, 108–109, 110
concessionaires in exchange malls, 38
Connect and Join (Web site), 253
contact information, keeping current,
50–51
Continued Health Care Benefit Program
(CHCBP), 188, 276
contract housing availability, 134
CONUS (continental United States)
gas stations on base, 38
healthcare benefi ts, 74, 83, 85, 298
housing allowance in, 132
Military OneSource counseling, 244
conventional home loan, 117, 118, 144
COOL (Credentialing Opportunities
On-Line) (Web site), 296
co-ops, childcare, 168
Cost of Living Allowance (COLA),
64, 95, 287
cost of working outside the home,
calculating (Web site), 157
court-martial and punitive discharge,
279–280
Coverdell Education Savings Account, 72
Credentialing Opportunities On-Line
(COOL) (Web site), 296
credit history development, 101–102, 318
Credit Repair Kit For Dummies (Bucci), 318
credit report, free annual (Web site), 102
credit score, 101
CSB/REDUX (Career Status Bonus), 95,
284–285
custodian designation, will planning, 125
customs and courtesies. See also
ceremonies
introduction, 19
myths compared to realities, 19–20
protocol (party), 29–30
rank and hierarchy, 20–25
saluting, 25, 26
spousal responsibilities and freedoms,
24, 25, 28–29
• D •
DD Form 214 (certifi cate of release/
discharge), 274–275
DD Form 1172 (DEERS enrollment) (Web
site), 32
DD Form 2558 (allotments from pay), 70, 99
DD Form 2642 (TRICARE claim form), 76
DD Form 2648 (pre-separation counseling
checklist), 274, 295
DDESS (Domestic Dependent Elementary
and Secondary Schools), 173
death certificate, 212Index 345
Death Gratuity Payment (DD Form
397), 212
death or disability of family member.
See also estate planning
disability, dealing with, 205–210
introduction, 205
surviving servicemember’s death,
210–216
DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility
Reporting System), 31–33
Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), 36
Defense Finance and Accounting Service
(DFAS) (Web site), 70, 188, 226
Defense Manpower Center contact
information, 33
dental insurance, 84–85, 299
dental offi cers, bonus pay, 63
Department of Defense Dependents
Schools (DoDDS), 173
Department of Defense Education Activity
(DoDEA), 172–173
Dependence and Indemnity Compensation
(DIC), 212
deployments
benefi ts related to, 225–227, 240
children
behavior expectations, 254
caregiver and teacher roles, 255–256
emotional issues, 231, 234, 247–248,
252–253
expectations about contact with parent,
254–255, 257
informing deployed parent about family
situation, 253–254
maintaining routines during, 248–249
parental absence issue, 167
homeownership maintenance
responsibilities, 137
long-distance relationships, handling,
180–182, 263–269
overview, 4
preparation
emotional issues, 227–235
fi nancial planning, 222–225, 240
introduction, 219
myths compared to realities, 219–220
powers of attorney, 220–222
special benefi ts from, 225–227
psychological phases of, 227–235
sharing responsibilities during, 248,
256–257
stress management, 236–237, 250,
252–253, 268–269
support of living on base during, 18
traditional family support options,
239–245
DFAS (Defense Finance and Accounting
Service) (Web site), 70, 188, 226
DH (Darling Husband), defined, 16
DIC (Dependence and Indemnity
Compensation), 212
dining hall facilities, 39
Dining In, 54–55
Dining Out, 28, 54–55
direct deposit of paycheck, setting up,
225–226
disability, dealing with, 205–210
disability insurance for spouse, 104, 300
DisabilityInfo.gov (Web site), 209
discharge from military. See transitioning
out of military
discounts for servicemembers and
families, 309
discretionary allotments from pay, 70, 99
dishonorable discharge, 279
dislocation allowance (DLA), 66
diving duty specialty pay, 63
divorce, 187–189
do it to yourself (DITY) moving, defined, 16
document storage online, 223
DoDDS (Department of Defense
Dependents Schools), 172–173
DoDEA (Department of Defense Education
Activity), 172–173
Domestic Dependent Elementary and
Secondary Schools (DDESS), 173
dorms and barracks overview, 35
double taxation elimination between
states, 91
down payment on home purchase, 117,
118–119
Drake, Thelma (congressional
representative), 203
dress code
in clubs, 40
communicating for social events, 29, 30
fi tness center, 41346 A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
driver’s license renewal requirements,
waiving for military, 193
drop-in childcare, 168
durable power of attorney for healthcare,
126–127, 221
DW (darling wife), 50
• E •
EAP (Employee Assistance Program), 187
early career separation, 280–281
eating facilities overview, 39–40
education. See also college education
children’s pre-college, 43, 171–174
civilian employer compared to military
benefits, 304
counseling during separation
planning, 275
extra-curricular programs for
children, 192
need for fl exibility in pursuing, 13
offi cer and enlisted levels of, 20
for portable careers, 158–159
professional military, 150
summary of benefi ts, 309, 313
eligibility certifi cate for VA loan, 143
ELS (entry level separation), 279
e-mail for friendship network maintenance,
147
emergency reserve fund, 100–101, 225
emotional issues in military life stresses.
See family dynamics
Employee Assistance Program (EAP), 187
Employer Support of the Guard and
Reserve (ESGR) (Web site), 193
employment
civilian compared to military benefits,
297–304
protecting Guard and Reserve members’
civilian, 91, 193, 227
spouse’s civilian, 13, 155–163,
184–185, 308
transitioning to civilian, 275, 294–295
unemployment benefi ts for spouses,
163, 194
Enlisted Club, 40
enlisted personnel, ranks among, 21, 23
Enlisted Spouses’ Club, 47
entry level separation (ELS), 279
EOB (Explanation of Benefi ts), TRICARE, 85
ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard and
Reserve) (Web site), 193
estate planning
death of spouse, actions after, 212
durable power of attorney for healthcare,
126–127, 221
fi nancial power of attorney, 127, 221
introduction, 123–124
living trust, 126
living will, 127, 221
will, 125
events
Dining In/Out, 28, 54–55
going-away parties for moving, 175
Hail and Farewell, 52
holiday parties, 53
introduction, 28
military balls, 28
eviction protection, 91
exchanges, base/post (BX/PX), 37–39, 308
Executor’s Resource (Web site), 222
expectations, managing in changing
situations, 182–183, 254–255, 257
expenses, monthly, assessment of, 97–99
Explanation of Benefi ts (EOB), TRICARE, 85
extended family communication during
deployment, 268
• F •
Family Advocacy Program (FAP), 48, 57,
187
family childcare (FCC) program, 170
family dynamics
among military families, 11
children. See children
death or disability of family member,
205–216
deployments. See deployments
expectations, managing in changing
situations, 182–183, 254–255, 257
marriage and relationship. See marriage
and relationshipIndex 347
moving challenges, 171, 174–177, 213, 310
overview, 4
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
206–207
stress management. See stress
management
Family Readiness Assistant, 242
Family Readiness Group (FRG), 241–242
Family Separation Allowance, 66, 226
Family Servicemembers’ Group Life
Insurance (FSGLI) (Web site), 94, 103
Family Support Center (FSC). See FSC
(Family Support Center)
family support facilities overview, 42–44
fatigue uniform (ABU), 16
FCC (family childcare) program, 170
FHA (Federal Housing Administration)
home loan, 117, 143
fi eld grade officer, defi ned, 25
fi nancial aid for college expenses, 120, 153
fi nancial calculator for down payment
planning (Web site), 119
fi nancial issues and benefits. See also
compensation
allotments from pay, 68, 70, 99–100, 123
avoiding scams related to, 319
big expense saving guidelines, 113–114
challenges to marital relationship, 184
college costs, 119–121, 153
credit history development, 101–102
for deployments, 222–225, 240
emergency reserve fund, 100–101, 225
estate planning, 123–129
home purchase, 115–119
insurance types, 102–107
introduction, 97
investing guidance, 107–111
monthly expenses assessment, 97–99
overview, 3
retirement, 94–95, 108–109, 110, 121–123,
283–287
fi nancial power of attorney, 127, 221
Fisher, Elizabeth (Fisher House
founder), 196
Fisher, Zachary (Fisher House
founder), 196
Fisher House Foundation (Web site), 196
fi tness and sports center, 41, 169
fi tness-for-duty status, 207
fi xed-rate compared to adjustable
mortgages, 117, 118, 144
fl ag, U.S., respect for, 26–27
flag offi cer, defi ned, 25
Flat Daddies/Flat Mommies (Web site), 254
fl exibility, importance of, 12–15, 182
fl exible spending plan/flex-account,
303–304
fl ipping (rehabilitating) a property,
140–141
Flipping Houses For Dummies, 141
food allowance (BAS), 39, 64–65
foreclosure protection for
servicemembers, 91
foreign countries, assignments in.
See overseas assignments
foreign language proficiency specialty
pay, 63
401(k) retirement plan, 302–303
403(b) retirement plan, 302
frame hobby shop, 42
Freedom Walks, 199
FRG (Family Readiness Group), 241–242
FSC (Family Support Center)
deployment support resource, 239–240
dual active-duty spouses assignment
planning, 161
employment assistance, 158
identifi cation by service, 43
moving support, 87–88, 147
as on-base service, 57
summary of benefi t, 309, 315
Web site, 88
FSGLI (Family Servicemembers’ Group Life
Insurance) (Web site), 94, 103
full-time childcare options, 169
fundraiser events, 52
• G •
gaining unit, defined, 50
gas stations, on-base, 38
general discharge, 278
general officer, defi ned, 25
get-rich-quick schemes, avoiding, 318
golf ball theory of life, 234
Good Grief Camp for Young Survivors, 214348 A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
grassroots efforts to support troops,
196–199
grief process, 214
Grog bowl, 54
Guard and Reserve
childcare options for, 170–171
employment rights of, 91, 193, 227
guidance for benefi ts (Web site), 192–193
healthcare program, 74, 82–84
MGIB educational benefi t, 151, 153
VA loan eligibility, 118
guardians for children, will planning, 125
gym (fi tness center), 41, 169
• H •
Hail and Farewell event, 52
haircare facilities, 38
Hardship Duty Pay, 62
Hazardous Duty Incentive Pay, 62
Hazardous Duty Incentive Pay for Flying, 62
health insurance reinstatement right, 91
health savings account, 303
healthcare benefits. See also MTF (military
treatment facility); TRICARE
after death of spouse, 213
CHCBP, 188, 276
civilian compared to military, 78, 297–298
durable power of attorney for healthcare,
126–127, 221
fl exible spending plan, 303–304
in retirement, 287–288
summary of family, 308, 312
transitioning out of service, 276
Hero Salute program, Anheuser Busch
parks, 259
Heroes Mile program, 196
High 36 Retirement System, 284, 285
high school academic requirements, state
differences, 171
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization),
TRICARE Prime as, 74
holiday parties, 53
Home Buying For Dummies, 139
home foreclosure protection, 91
home-based working moms (Web site), 158
homeowner’s insurance, 104–105, 116
homeschooling (Web site), 172
honorable discharge status, 278
Hostile Fire and Imminent Danger Pay, 62
housing
adjusting to changing, 13
allowance for, 65–66, 68, 131–133
introduction, 131
off-base options
buying, 72, 115–119, 137–144, 192, 314
introduction, 135–136
leasing/renting, 133, 136–137, 139–140
rehabilitating property (flipping),
140–141
renting your property to others, 141–142
on-base options, 35, 134–135
overview of types, 35
relocating/moving tips, 145–148
summary of benefit, 313
Housing and Urban Development, U.S.
Department of (Web site), 116, 117
Hug a Hero (Web site), 254
• I •
ID card, obtaining, 34
identity theft through e-mail scams, 318
incentive pay, 71
income taxes. See taxes
ING Direct (Web site), 101, 109, 119
ING Orange Savings Account, 101, 109, 119
injured servicemembers, scam about, 317
installation
as American island in overseas
assignments, 14
auto hobby shop, 44–45
banking, 45
benefi ts overview, 18
child development center (CDC), 43–44,
169–170
clubs and groups overview, 47–48
DEERS enrollment, 31–33
eating facilities, 39–40
family support options
chapel, 46, 48, 57, 241
family advocacy program, 48, 57, 187
Family Readiness Group (FRG), 241–242
Family Support Center. See FSCIndex 349
online support for deployments,
243–244
overview, 42–44
spouse clubs, 16, 47–48, 242–243
housing options, 35, 134–135
ID card, obtaining, 34
introduction, 17–18, 31
Military Treatment Facility. See MTF
(Military Treatment Facility)
MWR facilities, 41–42
overview of types, 16
responsibilities of, 18
schools, 172–173
shopping facilities, 16, 36–39, 308
Spouses’ Club, 48
in-state tuition option for servicemembers,
163
insurance
automobile, 106–107
disability, 104, 300
health. See healthcare benefits
homeowner’s, 104–105, 116
life. See life insurance
long-term care, 300–301
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI),
118, 143
property, 104–106, 116
renter’s, 105
inter-service rivalry, 27
interest rate reduction benefi t on loans, 90
interest rates and mortgage choices,
117, 144
Internet. See Web-based resources
investing guidance
college education, 72
compound interest and investment
appreciation, 108–109, 110
purpose and method choice, 107–108,
109, 111
rental real estate, 141–142
retirement, 72, 108, 109, 111, 277,
291–292, 302
scams to avoid, 319–320
Investing in an Uncertain Economy For
Dummies, 320
IRA (Individual Retirement Account), 108
• J •
JAG (judge advocate general) bonus, 63
job fairs, 162
Joint Operational Support Airlift Center
(OSA) (Web site), 88
Joint Spouses’ Luncheon, 47
junior grade officer, defi ned, 25
• K •
Kübler-Ross, Elisabeth (author)
On Death and Dying, 214
• L •
landlord responsibilities, 141–142
language, introduction to military jargon,
16–17
late career separation, 281–282
lawyers, military (JAG), bonus, 63
leasing a house, 133, 136–137, 139–140
leave (paid vacation), 66–67, 68
leave and earnings statement (LES), 61,
67–70
Legal Assistance Center (Web site), 92
legal issues and resources
appealing medical review board decision,
207–208
for divorce, 188
legal problems as reason to join military,
myth of, 20
rights and protections for
servicemembers, 90–92
summary of benefits, 314
upon separation, 277–278
LES (leave and earnings statement), 61,
67–70
life events, updating DEERS for, 32–33
life insurance
for children, 103
civilian compared to military, 301–302
Family Servicemembers’ Group Life
Insurance (FSGLI), 94, 103
Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance
(SGLI), 92–93, 102–103, 301, 314350 A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
life insurance (continued)
Traumatic Injury Protection coverage,
93–94
Veteran’s Group Life Insurance (VGLI),
93, 277, 301
Web sites for outside agencies, 93
line compared to nonline officers, 21
liquor store, on-base, 39
living trust, 126
living will, 127, 221
local bank account, 45
lodging/billeting facilities, 35, 66, 90
long-distance relationships, handling,
180–182, 263–269. See also
deployments
long-term care insurance, 300–301
long-term disability insurance, 300
• M •
mail call, 266
mail-order exchange shopping, 37
Marine Corps Community Services, 43. See
also FSC (Family Support Center)
Marine Corps Exchange (MCX), 37
Marines, U.S., ranks in, 22, 23
marriage and relationship
children as challenge to, 184
communication, 179–185
deployment, connectivity during,
180–182, 263–269
divorce, 187–189
fi nancial challenges to, 184
introduction, 179
setting aside couple time, 186
spousal employment effects on, 184–185
support and counseling, 187
MCX (Marine Corps Exchange), 37
Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), 16
medical benefits. See healthcare benefits
medical clinic, on-base. See MTF (military
treatment facility)
Medical Evaluation Board (MEB), 207
medical offi cers, bonus pay, 63
medical retirement, 208, 210
medical review board, 207
medical separation from service, 207, 210
medical transcription as portable
employment option (Web site), 159
Medicare and TRICARE, 288
mental health, PTSD (post-traumatic stress
disorder), 206, 209–210, 235. See also
family dynamics
Merchant Marine Academy (Kings
Point), 24
mess hall facilities, 39
MGIB (Montgomery GI Bill)
introduction, 10
provisions of, 150–152
summary of benefit, 313
VA as administrator of, 275
Web site, 155
mid-grade officer, defi ned, 25
military balls, 28
military benefits. See benefits
military clause in housing lease
agreement, 133
The Military Coalition (TMC), 200–203
military family life/culture
benefits of. See benefits
civilian life, compared to, 9
deployments. See deployments
diversity of people in, 20
effects on family. See family dynamics
equalizing nature of, 17
fl exibility, importance of, 12–15, 182
installation, residing on. See installation
introduction, 1–5
language/jargon, introduction to, 16–17
marking milestones, 55–57
overview, 9–11
support resources on base, 57
unit, connecting to, 49–55
Military Hire (Web site), 296
Military HOMEFRONT (Web site), 145–146
military ID card, obtaining, 34, 214
Military Job Zone (Web site), 296
military married to military, special
benefi ts for, 133, 160–161
Military Offi cers Association of America
(MOAA) (Web site), 203, 210, 296
Military OneSource service, 88, 145, 187,
209, 244
Military Spouse and Family Legacy
Association (Web site), 203Index 351
Military Spouse Career Advancement
Account, 159
military spouse preference (MSP) program,
160–161
military treatment facility (MTF). See MTF
(military treatment facility)
Military.com Transition Center (Web
site), 296
MilSpouse.org (Web site), 209
MOAA (Military Offi cers Association of
America) (Web site), 203, 210, 296
money market account for savings, 101,
107, 119
Monster.com (Web site), 296
Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB). See MGIB
(Montgomery GI Bill)
Month of the Military Child, 177
monthly expenses assessment, 97–99
Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR)
programs, 37, 41–42, 259
mortgage
assessing types of, 117, 118, 142–144
debt compared to gross income, 115, 116
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI),
118, 143
total payment compared to gross income,
115, 116
move-in housing allowance, overseas,
66, 133
movie theater, on-base, 42
moving
advantages of starting anew, 310
after death of spouse, 213
children’s challenges, 171, 174–177
in conjunction with deployment, 235
dislocation allowance, 66
do it to yourself (DITY) version, 16
family challenges, 171, 174–177, 213, 310
Family Support Center, 87–88, 147
going-away parties, 175
housing tips, 145–148
move-in allowance for overseas
assignments, 66, 133
pet transfer challenge, 176
at separation from service, 275
sponsors for, 50
spouse employment and education
challenges, 158–159, 163
TLF housing, 35
Mr. Vice (at Dining In/Out), 54
MREs (Meals Ready to Eat), 16
MSP (military spouse preference) program,
160–161
MTF (military treatment facility)
civilian healthcare, compared to, 298
function of, 45–46
TRICARE, relationship to, 75, 77, 78
Web site, 77
Mutual Funds For Dummies, 111, 292
MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation)
programs, 37, 41–42, 259
• N •
names, courtesies about, 24
national anthem, 26, 27, 42
National Association of Child Care
Resources and Referral Agencies
(NACCRRA) (Web site), 170
National Association of Education of Young
Children (NAEYC), 43
National Association of Home Based
Businesses (Web site), 158
National Guard servicemembers. See
Guard and Reserve
National Hire Veterans committee
(Web site), 296
National Military Family Association
(NMFA) (Web site), 203
Naval Academy (Annapolis), 24
Navy, U.S., ranks in, 22, 23
Navy Exchange Service Command
(NEX), 37
Navy Fleet and Family Support Center, 43.
See also FSC (Family Support Center)
Navy Marine Corps Relief Society
(NMCRS), 213
net pay on LES, 68
network, community. See community
network
network healthcare providers, defined, 74
networking for job search, 162, 297
newsletter, unit, 51
NEX (Navy Exchange Service
Command), 37
NMCRS (Navy Marine Corps Relief
Society), 213352 A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
NMFA (National Military Family
Association) (Web site), 203
Non-Commissioned Offi cers’ Club, 40
Non-Commissioned Officers Association
(Web site), 296
nondiscretionary allotments from pay,
70, 99
nonline compared to line officers, 21
non-network healthcare providers,
defined, 74
non-participating providers, TRICARE, 75
nuclear power training duty bonus for
Naval officers, 63
Nurse Licensure Compact, 163
• O •
occasional childcare, 168
occasional/drop-in childcare, 168
Occupational Outlook Handbook (Dept. of
Labor) (Web site), 156
OCONUS (outside CONUS). See overseas
assignments
OCS (Offi cers Candidate School), 24
off-base services and facilities. See also
community network
childcare options, 170
deployment support network, 245
housing options
buying, 72, 115–119, 137–144, 192, 314
introduction, 135–136
leasing/renting, 133, 136–137, 139–140
rehabilitating a property (flipping),
140–141
renting your property to others, 141–142
Offi cer Training School (OTS), 24
officers, commissioned
ranks among, 21, 22
sources of commission, 24
Offi cers Candidate School (OCS), 24
Offi cers’ Club, 40
Offi cers’ Spouses’ Club (OSC), 16, 47
OHA (Overseas Housing Allowance),
66, 133
OMK (Our Military Kids), 170–171
on-base services and facilities. See
installation
On Death and Dying (Kübler-Ross), 214
online resources. See Web-based resources
Operation ReMax, 159
Operation Transition Bulletin Board, DoD
(Web site), 296
operational security (OpSec), 264
OSC (Offi cers Spouses Club), 16, 47
OTH (under other than honorable)
conditions discharge, 279
OTS (Offi cer Training School), 24
Our Military Kids (OMK), 170–171
overseas assignments
banking, 45
Department of Defense Dependents
Schools (DoDDS), 173
familiarity of shoppettes, 39
gasoline discounts on base, 38
healthcare benefi ts, 79, 85
housing allowance for off-base housing,
66, 133
Military OneSource counseling, 244
overview, 14
sponsors for, 50
Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA),
66, 133
overtime pay in civilian employment, 304
ownership classifi cations for estate
transfer, 127–128
• P •
package store, on-base, 39
parenting. See children
parking privileges based on rank, 24
participating providers, TRICARE, 75
part-time childcare, 168–169
Pass and ID office, 34
Patriot Express Pilot Loan Initiative, 192
pay, military. See compensation
pay taken in lieu of leave, 71
payday loans, avoiding, 100, 320
PCM (primary care manager), 77
PCS (permanent change of station). See
also moving
in conjunction with deployment, 235
defined, 16
relocating tips, 145
sponsors for, 50
TLF housing for moving families, 35Index 353
PEB (Physical Evaluation Board), 207
pensions in civilian employment, 303
Pentagon Federal Credit Union (Web site), 101
per diem allowance (Web site), 65
permanent compared to temporary
disability retirement, 208
personal allowances to high-ranking
officers, 71
personal development programs, 309
Personal Finance Workbook For Dummies,
103, 114, 222, 300, 318
personal property, estimating value of,
105–106
pet moving challenge, 176
Petroleum, Oil & Lube (POL) coupons, 38
pharmacies, options for filling
prescriptions, 80
philanthropy, spouses clubs as sources
of, 243
phishing schemes, e-mail, 318
phone communication during deployment,
264–265
Physical Evaluation Board (PEB), 207
physical exam, pre-separation, 276
pilots, extra pay for, 62, 63
PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance), 118, 143
Point of Service option for TRICARE Prime,
78, 79
POL (Petroleum, Oil & Lube) coupons, 38
portability of careers for spouses, 159
post. See installation
Post 9/11 GI Bill, 152–153
post exchange (PX), 37–39, 308
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), 206,
209–210, 235
power of attorney
for deployments, 220–222
fi nancial, 127, 221
for healthcare, 126–127, 221
for military beneficiary, 33
PPO (preferred provider option), TRICARE
Extra as, 76
prescription drug benefi t, 80, 84, 299
pre-separation counseling, 295
primary care manager (PCM), 77
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), 118, 143
probate court process for estate
distribution, 126
professional associations for job
search, 162
professional development programs, 309
professional military education, 150
promotion ceremony, 55
promotion opportunities, 150
property insurance, 104–106, 116
property management company, 142
protocol (party/social), 29–30
psychological issues. See family dynamics
PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), 206,
209–210, 235
public school systems, checking on
Internet, 172
punitive discharge, 278, 279–280
purchase of home, 72, 115–119, 137–144,
192
PX (post exchange), 37–39, 308
• Q •
quarantine, pet, 176
• R •
radio programs in support of military
families, online, 200
rank and hierarchy, 20–25, 62
RAP (Relocation Assistance Program), 275
Rapids Site Locator (Web site), 33
rations, fi eld (MREs), 16
real estate fi eld as portable employment
option, 159
real estate taxes, 116
records, military, preparation for
separation, 274–275
recreational activities and children’s
transitions, 175
RecruitMilitary.com (Web site), 296
Red Cross, scam impersonating, 317
reenlistment bonus, 63
rehabilitating (fl ipping) a property,
140–141
relocating. See moving
Relocation Assistance Program (RAP), 275
rental real estate, managing, 141–142
renter’s insurance, 105
renting a house, 133, 136–137, 139–140354 A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
Reserve, servicemembers in. See Guard
and Reserve
residency, changing state, 194
resource and referral (R&R) programs for
childcare, 170
respect and marriage relationship, 183–184
retirement
calculation of benefi t, 94–95, 283–286
ceremony for, 27, 56
civilian compared to military benefits,
302–303
civilian world, returning to, 289
compound interest and appreciation,
108–109, 110
continued relationship with military in, 56
financial benefits of, 280–287, 311–312
introduction, 283
investment vehicles for, 72, 108, 109, 111,
192, 277, 291–292, 302
medically required, 208, 210
saving for ultimate, 121–123, 290–292
sources for, 109
Thrift Saving Plan (TSP), 72, 108, 109–111,
277, 302
transferring TSP funds to civilian
plan, 277
Web site, 95
retreat ceremony, defined, 27
reveille ceremony, defined, 27
RoboForm software (Web site), 223
roster, unit, 50–51
ROTC (Reserve Offi cer Training Corps), 24
Roth IRA, 108, 111, 292
R&R (resource and referral) programs for
childcare, 170
RSVP responsibilities for social events, 29
Rules of the Mess for Dining In/Out, 54
• S •
SAC (school-age care) program, 43, 169
saluting, 25, 26
savings accounts
big expense saving, 113–114
Coverdell Education Savings Account, 72
health savings account, 303
ING Orange Savings Account, 101,
109, 119
money market, 101, 107, 119
Savings Deposit Program (SDP), 226
SBA (Small Business Administration) (Web
site), 192
SBP (Survivor Benefi t Plan), 189, 212,
286–287, 312, 319
scams against servicemembers, 317–320
scholarships, educational, 153, 155,
173–174, 309
school-age care (SAC) program, 43, 169
schools. See also education
as anchors for child during deployment,
255–256
community network resource, 171
high school academic requirements,
state differences, 171
homeschooling, 172
offi cer training, 24
on-base, 172–173
SCRA (Servicemember’s Civil Relief
Act), 90
SDP (Savings Deposit Program), 226
sea duty specialty pay, 63
Section 125 plan, 303–304
secure document storage, 222
secured credit card, 102
security, communication, 148, 199, 263–264
Security and Exchange Commission (SEC)
(Web site), 319
self-employment, spousal, 158, 160
separation from active duty. See
transitioning out of military
servicemembers. See also deployments
college education benefi ts, 10, 150–154,
155, 163, 275, 313
death or disability of, 210–216
DEERS update responsibility, 32–33
foreclosure protection for, 91
grassroots support for wounded, 197
importance of unit identity for, 49
priority at commissary checkouts for
uniformed, 36
rights and protections for, 90–92
scams targeted against, 317–320Index 355
Servicemember’s Civil Relief Act
(SCRA), 90
Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance
(SGLI), 92–93, 102–103, 301, 314
Sesame Street Workshop videos
(Web site), 251
SGLI Election and Certifi cate Form 3286, 92
SGLV Form 8283, 212
Shades of Green resort at Disney World
(Web site), 259
shoppettes, on-base, 38–39
shopping facilities, on-base, 16, 36–39, 308
short-term disability insurance, 300
single-parenting during deployments, 167,
230, 249
skills conversion for military-to-civilian
employment, 294–295
skills development center, 41–42
Skype Internet phone service, 265
Small Business Administration (SBA)
(Web site), 192
Snowball Express (Web site), 197, 215
social life
advantage of military friendships, 29
clubs and groups. See clubs
during deployments, 242–243
ease of identifying people, 17
events. See events
fundraisers, 52
protocol, 28–30
Social Security Administration, 212,
290–291
space available (Space-A) travel
benefi ts of, 307
categories of, 14, 89
defined, 14
rules of, 88–89
summary of benefi t, 307, 313
unreliability of schedules and spaces, 15
special occasions, sharing during
deployment, 266–267
special warfare offi cers, bonus pay, 64
specialty pay, 63, 71
sponsor for integration into new unit,
33, 50
spouse clubs, 16, 47–48, 242–243
spouse events, 53
Spouse Tuition Assistance Program
(STAP), 155
spouses
asset ownership issues for estate
planning, 128
customs and courtesies, 24, 25, 28–29
disability insurance for, 104, 300
educational opportunities, 154–155, 308
employment of, 13, 155–163, 184–185, 308
fl exibility expectation for, 182
lack of rank status for civilian, 20, 24
life insurance for, 103
military spouse preference (MSP)
program, 160–161
overview of involvement opportunities,
28
role modeling responsibility of, 24
single-parenting during deployments, 167,
230, 249
as survivor of servicemember’s death,
210–216
unemployment compensation, 163, 194
USFSPA, 188
Web site for support resources, 159
Spouses’ Club, 48
Spouse-to-Teachers program (Web site),
163
staffi ng companies, 162
STAP (Spouse Tuition Assistance
Program), 155
stars and stripes, respect for, 26–27
State Liaison Offi ce (Web site), 163,
194–195
state-level community support resources,
193–195
statement of service to qualify for
VA loan, 143
statute of limitations adjustment for
servicemembers, 90
stay of proceedings right, 90
stress management
during deployments, 236–237, 250,
252–253, 268–269356 A Family’s Guide to the Military For Dummies
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
206, 209–210, 235
student loan repayments, 71
Survivor Benefi t Plan (SBP), 189, 212,
286–287, 312, 319
• T •
T. Rowe Price (Web site), 111
TA (Tuition Assistance) program, 153
Talk, Listen and Connect (video series), 251
TAMP (Transitional Assistance
Management Program), 276
TAP (Transition Assistance Program), 274,
295–296
TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for
Survivors) (Web site), 214
taxes
allowances as exempt from tax, 71, 132
combat deployment exemption, 226
homeownership benefits, 137–138
leave, relationship to, 67
on LES, 68
overview, 70–72
property, 116
state differences in handling, 193
TDP (TRICARE Dental Plan), 84–85, 299
teacher certification, 163
teachers as anchors for child during
deployment, 255–256
temporary compared to permanent
disability retirement, 208
temporary duty (TDY/TAD) assignments,
10, 16
temporary lodging facilities (TLFs),
35, 66, 90
Thrift Saving Plan (TSP), 72, 108, 109–111,
277, 302
thrift shop, 47
time in service, pay grade, relationship
to, 62
tipping of grocery sackers at
commissary, 36
titling of assets, 128
TMC (The Military Coalition), 200–203
toasts at Dining In/Out, 54
tour of duty, defined, 54
traditions and ceremonies. See customs
and courtesies
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
(TAPS) (Web site), 214
Transition Assistance Online (Web site),
296
Transition Assistance Program (TAP), 274,
295–296
Transitional Assistance Management
Program (TAMP), 276
transitional survivorship status, 213
transitioning out of military. See also
retirement
career assessment, 294–295
early career separation, 280–281
introduction, 273
late career separation, 281–282
medical reasons, 207, 210
overview, 4
planning for, 273–278
pre-separation counseling, 295
voluntary compared to involuntary
separation, 278–279
transitory nature of military life, 10–15,
182. See also deployments; moving
traumatic brain injuries, 206
Traumatic Injury Protection coverage,
93–94
travel, benefi t of, 10, 14, 307–308, 313. See
also space available (Space-A) travel
TRICARE
basic elements, 74–75
eligibility, 73, 75, 76, 77, 84
enrollment information, 81–82
Guard and Reserve members, 74, 82–84
introduction, 32, 73
prescription drug coverage, 80
statements, 85
summary, 80–81
for survivors of servicemember’s
death, 213
Web site, 75
TRICARE Dental Plan (TDP), 84–85, 299
TRICARE Extra, 74, 76–77
TRICARE for Life, 288
TRICARE Prime, 74, 77–79, 298
TRICARE Prime Overseas, 79
TRICARE Prime Remote, 79Index 357
TRICARE Reserve Select, 83–84
TRICARE Standard, 74, 75–76
TSP (Thrift Saving Plan), 72, 108, 109–111,
277, 302
Tuition Assistance (TA) program, 153
• U •
under other than honorable (OTH)
conditions discharge, 279
Understanding Credit For Dummies, 102
unemployment benefi ts for military
spouses, 163, 194
Uniformed Services Employment and
Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA),
91, 193, 227
Uniformed Services Former Spouse
Protection Act (USFSPA), 188
uniforms and ease of identification, 17
unit, connecting to, 49–55
United Concordia Companies
(Web site), 84
United States Military Academy (West
Point), 24
U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado
Springs), 24
U.S. Coast Guard Academy (New
London), 24
U.S. government jobs site (Web site), 297
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Kings
Point), 24
U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis), 24
USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment
and Reemployment Rights Act), 91,
193, 227
USFSPA (Uniformed Services Former
Spouse Protection Act), 188
USO (United Service Organization) (Web
site), 195
utilities, on-base housing, 134
• V •
VA Form 26-1880, 143
VA home loan, 118, 142–143, 314
vacation and holiday benefits, 66–67,
68, 304
vacation trips during deployment period,
258–260
Veteran’s Affairs, U.S. Department of
DIC benefit, 212
disability benefi ts, 208, 209
as MGIB administrator, 275
PTSD support (Web site), 207
Web site, 209
veteran’s benefits
MGIB educational benefi t, 10, 150–152,
155, 275, 313
Post 9/11 GI Bill, 152–153
VA loans, 118, 142–143, 314
Veteran’s Benefi ts For Dummies, 209, 277,
288, 301
Veteran’s Group Life Insurance (VGLI), 93,
277, 301
veterinary offi cers, bonus pay, 64
VetJobs.com (Web site), 297
Vets4Hire (Web site), 297
Virtual Family Readiness Group (VFRG)
(Web site), 264
vision care benefi t, 79, 299
voluntary compared to involuntary
separation, 278–279
volunteering, 157–158, 169, 241–242
• W •
warrant offi cers, ranks among, 21, 23
Web-based resources
children’s school options, 172
deployment, 243–244, 253, 264
job hunting resources, 161
online communities, 147–148,
199–200, 264
online exchange shopping, 37
scholarships, educational, 309
will, 125
wood hobby shop, 41
wounded servicemembers, grassroots
support organizations for, 197
• Y •
yard maintenance for on-base housing, 134
Youth and Teen Center, 44, 176, 251
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