Thursday, November 10, 2011

What a civilian family should know about a Military family.

There are a few things that "civilian families" don't understand about the lifestyle. I thought it would be nice to have a blog about some information that might be helpful for the families.I will add more on eventually, but so far here are just a few things.





1. Soldiers are not made of money.

Though soldiers have a steady paycheck and wonderful benefits, they get paid less than your average teacher. For a two person family, a soldiers paycheck is enough to pay bills, groceries and have a little spending money. Most families I have met at both duty stations are extremely cautious with their spendings. Do not ask us to go home all the time. Chances are, you probably make more than the soldier. He doesn't complain about it because he's doing what he loves BECAUSE of you and FOR you.

2. Don't expect us to go everywhere on Leave.

It is super nice to be able to go home and see friends and family whenever we have a chance too. It is not however, nice when we go home and we have to go see everyone. We spent enough money making the trip home, it'd be nice to have you pick us up or meet us somewhere.


3. You are not forgotten.

The military lifestyle can be hectic. It is solely (from my experience) the wife's job to keep in contact with everybody back home. It can sometimes be a pain remembering to call everybody all the time. I didn't forget about you. I'm not trying to be one of those "convenience" friends...That's what makes facebook and other social networks so awesome. Just remember, a phone works both ways.


4. Remember OPSEC.

This is probably the most important thing you need to know in order for you soldier, sailor, airmen, etc to be safe. Do NOT post any dates/locations of any movement. See "OPSEC Policy" tab on the top of my page.

(...to be continued)