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.
Do We Still Celebrate the Month of the Military Child?
When a service member separates from the military, they become a retiree or a veteran. They’re still celebrated on Veterans Day, and if you’ve ever been to a sporting event where all …
