Any normal year, nearly half of all military families would be gearing up for PCS season. However, this season is anything but normal. The COVID-19 crisis has consumed our country, if not the globe. Our new normal is living life on hold, while homebound and swallowing hefty doses of uncertainty with every news cycle. Many military families are in a hurry-up and wait phase, feeling helpless and anxiously awaiting the PCS process to continue.
In October 2019 my family started moving from our previous station in Ecuador to Virginia. It is now spring 2020. It took six months from the time we started our moving process to get where we are today. PCSing is a long game, and each time I play, the move requires every tool in my toolbox to complete the transition. The moves do not seem to get easier, but I know through experience we will get through it.
Military kids move much more often than their civilian peers, averaging a move every 2-3 years. Every PCS move means a new house, new school, new friends, and new routines. It is a lot for a child to adjust to and accept. Sesame Street for Military families has created a variety of online tools and programs to make this process easier for military families. If you are preparing kids for a PCS move, here are some tools to help your child make the most of the experience.
This is our second week in total and complete lockdown and our 5th week homeschooling our children. Why? Because my military family is currently stationed in Northern Italy; where COVID-19 has impacted tens of thousands of people. But not all is lost. I’d like to share with you some things I’ve learned in the last month living in the hardest hit area of the world, and perhaps you’ll ponder these takeaways as you navigate your new normal during this international pandemic.
For military families struggling with stop orders on PCS moves and uncertain dates, the tax extension can be a welcome relief. For those wondering whether or not to continue moving forward on a home purchase, we pulled in an expert to help you make important decisions before you PCS. So, buckle up, let’s talk about taxes and home ownership and taxes.
On April 19, 1945, during the Pacific campaign of World War II, Pfc. Martin O. May, took up his post and never left it.
Those airmen who make the cut will head to the Vegas strip where they'll compete for a cash prize, and bragging rights for best temporary duty orders in the military.
The new order will make restrictions around deployments and redeployments “a bit looser,” but most moves will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Marine Corps leadership would rather get a Brazilian wax than suspend haircuts.
“The Capt admitted to using a vaping device containing CBD oil, eating CBD infused gummies and cooking with CBD infused flour.”
A Navy spokesman declined to say if the sailor was separated specifically because of the investigation's findings
“We’ve done pretty well overall, all things considered.”
The sailor was reportedly caught on security camera footage while leaving his room but was stopped before he could leave the hotel.
Here is the Marine Corps' final word on haircuts and COVID-19.
Have no fear: the Reaper is here
The 21st century military shouldn’t work and train like the 19th century
Fair winds and following seas
Troops won't have to worry about losing extra leave they have racked up during the COVID-19 travel restrictions
Why yes, this is an M18 Claymore Mine neck pillow, and yes, you can buy it, along with an arsenal of other plushy weapons of mass destruction thanks to the folks over at Evike.
