Ask:
The military lifestyle definitely has a bunch of negative aspects to it. I'm not going to lie to you: deployments suck! But if we took the time ot evaluate all the good things it offers, it does seem to equal out a little.
Tell me some of the pros of being a military family member
For me:
1) Medical Insurance ~ FREE
2) Housing (on base) ~ FREE
3) Housing Allowance ~ in addition to base pay
4) The Commissary
5) Tax Free Shopping at the BX/NEX
Answer:
Ummmm
free stuff at self help to fix something
sometimes free plants
free top soil and mulch for your yard
can meet great people.
Answer:
Can you still get free OTC drugs at the pharmacy? That was one of my favorite things that I miss so much.
Also cheap trailer lot rentals - we paid $13 a month for lot rent.
Camping sites for tents and campers/RV's really cheap at each base.
Free gym!!
Answer:
Also. . .job security!! I see so many friends worrying about layoffs, company closings and all the effects of that related to insurance, etc. No worries about that with the military. Personally, I definitely think the goods outweigh the bads for my family.
Discount tickets, and some cheaper vacation spots (like military resort by Disney!)
Answer:
Wow, that is a lot of stuff. I have never been a part of a military family, but that is some great benefits.
Answer:
Home made meals from your fellow miliary families when you have babies or when you dh is deployed (small perk, but one non the less)