I've been kicking around here for a while, an advocate working for veterans, those serving, and military families, and I think it's time to share news from the world of Blue Star Moms, Kids, Spouses, and the like. Below, good and bad news from Uncle Sam's world without too much snark:
Financial awareness: not just a buzz word to the Pentagon, they've unleashed a Travelling personal financial education road show to foster wiser economic choices by those serving and their families. Financial Readiness Challenge events are slated for Jan. 24 at Fort Belvoir, Va.; Feb. 23 at Naval Base Kitsap, Wash.; the week of Feb. 25 at Los Angeles AFB, Calif.; the week of Feb. 25 at San Diego region, Calif.; Feb. 25 at Norfolk, Va.; and March 7 at Fort Polk, La.
If your military family is relocating to the Biloxi area, this former military public affairs specialist can help.
And if you are moving anywhere else with questions, there is MilitaryAvenue.com, a community-based q & a platform for those already stationed and those with questions about where they'll be relocating to.
Let's hear it for Farmington, MN! The state's first Yellow Ribbon City. What is a Yellow Ribbon City, you ask? It means the community is doing more than slapping on yellow ribbon magnets on their cars. Click the link to find out.
You've probably heard by now about the increasing number of divorces in the military. This article in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer puts the focus on Kids caught in the crossfire of military divorce.
In case you missed it, here's a nutshell on those divorce stats. And if you want more gory details, read this Georgia Divorce Attorney's overviewof a recent briefing held in Arkansas to address the impending return of thousands of members of the Arkansas National Guard.
Speaking of kids, Laramie County, Wyoming, has its stuff togetherthrough this joint effort of the 4-H and Operation Millitary Kids.
Certain members of the British Parlaiment have introduced new bill out to address the information needs of bereaved families.
New Hampshire's active duty families, and disabled and retired veterans get a helping hand when it comes to heating oil.
While Wall Street and Main Street go bust, the Pentagon experiences a boom in re-enlistments, closing out its strongest year since 2003-2004.
The term Blue Star Mothers has been around since the Civil War to signify the ranks of those who bear children and send them off to war. Here's the story of one such mother who backed up her words with action and founded a chapter in California.
A sweet and enjoyable post by military husband Thomas Litchford.
MustangRambles has one of the best links page for those serving, those transitioning out of the military, and their families. Thanks 'stang!
PAL and Red Cross organizationsare hosting Military Families during the holiday season.