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