A Family's Guide to the Military for Dummies

Your personal how-tohandbook for living yourbest life as a military family Looking for a clear, concise guide to military life? Whether you're new to the armed forces or planning your latest relocation, this plain-English handbook has expert tips for overcoming the challenges and taking advantage of the benefits unique to life in the military. From living on a base to financial planning to deployment, you'll see how to find all the support your family needs. Grasp the boot camp basics -- understand rank and military hierarchy, find your way around a base, and connect with others in the community Take charge of your finances -- decipher military compensation, handle your taxes, build credit, and invest for your family's future Understand your military benefits -- obtain health and dental insurance, utilize the family support centers, explore retirement benefits, and more Raise a happy family -- from housing and childcare to education and recreation, take advantage of all the military offers Handle deployments -- prepare for deployment, help children cope, stay connected with your loved one, and manage stress and anxiety Transition out of the military -- assess the financial benefits, retire from service, and plan for your next career Open the book and find: An overview of military versus civilian lifestyle Your place in the military structure Educational and employment opportunities Family support centers, groups, and associations The best benefits for military spouses How to avoid scams against service members A family's guide to military acronyms Programs outside the military you can turn to for support