When I share that I’m a military spouse, I often hear, “I don’t know how you manage it.” I chuckle, because while it’s true that military life comes with its challenges, there are so many incredible aspects that make it worthwhile.
Of course, there are downsides to having a partner in active duty. Long hours are the norm—my husband has often clocked in from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., with frequent overnight shifts. And let’s not even get started on deployments; they can feel like an eternity. However, despite these hurdles, I truly enjoy being a military spouse. Here are five reasons why.
1. Embrace the Moves
Yes, you read that correctly—moving is one of my favorite parts! Over the past decade, my husband and I have called places like Texas, Virginia, Germany, New Orleans, and Washington D.C. our home. Each move, while stressful, brings the excitement of new friends, adventures, and experiences. The military facilitates a lifestyle that is far richer than what we might have had otherwise.
2. Excellent Healthcare
Though the Tricare system isn’t without its faults, the benefits are hard to beat. From no copays for clinic visits to free prescriptions and hospital stays that don’t drain our bank account, I’ve been grateful for access to healthcare that covers everything from seasonal allergies to surgeries—even giving birth overseas. While it may not be perfect, it’s incredibly reassuring to know our family is taken care of.
3. Job Security
My husband and I have mulled over whether he should stay for the long haul—20 years—or transition to civilian life. Each time a decision looms, we realize the military offers a stability that’s hard to replicate in the civilian sector. The benefits, including healthcare, housing support, and retirement plans, are invaluable and not something we could easily find outside military life.
4. Military Discounts
I know it might sound trivial, but military discounts are a fantastic perk. Many retailers, from restaurants to tourist attractions and even car dealerships, offer special pricing for military families. These discounts enable us to enjoy experiences and make memories that we might not otherwise afford.
5. A Network of Friends
One of the best benefits of all that moving is the incredible network of friends I’ve developed along the way. Some of my closest friendships have blossomed through military life, and I’ve even had a few celebrity encounters (I’ll save the story of meeting Chris Hemsworth for another day!). The military community is tight-knit, and no matter where we relocate, I always find a friendly face nearby.
Not everyone can thrive in a military lifestyle, but for my family, it’s a perfect fit, and we’re here for the long run. If you’re curious about the journey of other families, check out this blog post on Cervical Insemination. And for those considering home insemination, Make A Mom offers quality at-home insemination syringe kits. For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, News-Medical is an excellent resource.
In summary, being a military spouse comes with its share of unique experiences, challenges, and rewards. Embracing the journey makes it all worthwhile!
Leave a Reply