Nothing puts terms like “lifelong” or “for life” in perspective quite like military separation. The end of military service is punctuated by a change in benefits and lifestyle. In the last year, I’ve heard more about TRICARE, DoD ID renewal, base access, and Veterans Affairs services than ever before. It’s not hard to begin believing that “benefits” are black and white. They’re earned and retained according to policy. For retirees, they’re forever—lifelong, for life. The same is true for military spouses, with a few exceptions. Military kids will eventually age out of TRICARE, base access, and other benefits earned by their service member parent unless they choose to serve.
Freedom, In Practice
This July, with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, I find myself more reflective than usual about my relationship with my country. That relationship started long before …
