His luck would have it that his first and second assignments were in Florida, close enough that his mom could drop off cookies. No matter which Air Force Base tickles your fancy, they all have a few essential commonalities that families tend to put at the top of their checklists. Privacy Policy Advertise Through Ashley Gutermuth's many military moves, she has learned to flip circumstances around to find the humor, and the How do you figure out what you need to know about taking your career overseas? According to Sperling's Best Places, average July temperatures in Wichita hit a scorching 93 degrees. "I also know that a lot of enlisted members have a second job to support their families.". They now have one son and three dogs, and are working through the ups and downs of dual-military life every day. Grand Forks Air Force Base is a hidden gem in North Dakota. Being a military family isn't easy and often comes with plenty of hardships, but the work that these great people do is crucial. The 9 percent sales tax and 7.6 percent unemployment rate are also high. We'd wager school quality, for example, is a greater concern than the sales tax rate. One resident told us that base houses are older and smaller than something in the States, but it doesnt matter so much since all houses offer one thing: a front door that leads outside. Make the most of where you are. Our Team In our survey, it ended up with one of the highest school rankings 8 out of 10 the lowest crime ratesreceiving. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Craig spent many years on active duty service in the Air Force stationed in such places as Okinawa, Japan and SAC Headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. A home in nearby Fairfax County, Virginia, has a median cost of $455,300. Also, the Department of Defense (DoD) schools are really good and their sports teams travel to compete against other DoD schools across Europe. In some ways, dual-military life can be compared to a normal working couple's . Both traditional and modern Chine, Expert Advice on Foster Care for Military Families: How to Provide Support, Even though military families may relocate every few years, they can still open their hearts and homes to a foster child. And really, lifes better for it. It's a dream -- and, shockingly, the reality -- for some lucky service members. Living at or near a base that focuses on family and work-life balance helps make their occupation choice worthwhile. The Defense Department says it will permanently close the Navy's massive Hawaii fuel tank facility that leaked petroleum into Copyright 2023 Military.com. People in Okinawa drive teeny, overpacked cars, and you will too. Marco Polo App Improves Communication for Military Families. Life here is charming, but it can be dicey at times. The unassuming military base in small-town Illinois is a hidden gem based on those who have served at the location. It is one of the finest Air Force bases in the country similar to Scott Air Force Base and Joint Base San Antonio Lackland because of low housing, superb medical facilities, and a large commissary. Meanwhile, others like single personnel have quick access to St. Louis and a variety of entertainment options. There are just under 60 active U.S. Air Force bases in the country. 33 Teacher Thank You Notes From Parents to Show Your Appreciation. But we've been there. McGuire Air Force Base, on the other hand, is very close to NYC, Philadelphia, and New Jersey for nightlife. 2002-2023 LoveToKnow Media. UN envoy says Sudans warring sides agree to negotiate, Russia missile attack on Ukraine injures 34, damages homes, Turkey claims its forces killed ISIS chief in Syria, Committee votes on major defense policy bill expected in May, Military families share workout with first lady Jill Biden, Your next tech and incoming AI | Defense News Weekly Full Episode 4.28.2023, Home Improvement Loans What are my options? Its a great base to live on whether youre single, married, or have kids, as theres a lot to do in your downtime. Of the fifty-nine possible Air Force bases in the United States, these bases reign supreme, checking off all possible family-friendly boxes. How much you receive is usually based on where your service member is stationed. While the costs of living in Alaska can be relatively high, Air Force families find it reasonable, much in part to the commissary and shopping found on the base. So we weighted each category. In some cases, your service member may be stationed somewhere you cannot go -- called a "hardship duty assignment." The general crime rate in New Orleans is high, at 66 per 1,000, and Louisiana schools generally rank low compared to other areas in the nation. Those living on base have many housing options to choose from, ranging from small duplexes to lakeside, four-bedroom abodes. While there are numerous overseas locations worth considering for singles, this list focuses on bases in the United States. The secludedness makes you feel like you have an island to yourself with phenomenal beaches and splendid weather. She and other mothers and fathers emphasize the value of comfort and safety on base. It takes a lot of planning and foresight, said Capt. Oh, and did we mention that you can get ice cream served in a hot waffle. This can be one of the biggest challenges of mil-to-mil life, but a positive attitude and prioritizing family time when possible is one way that many couples cope with the distance. You buy a house. McConnell's crime score was 3 out of a possible 10, lower than the nationwide average score of 6. And the schools are middling, with average ranking of 5 within 10 miles. The median home cost there is a whopping $766,000. Best reason to be stationed there: British nostalgia. Hanscom has a total workforce of 5,828, including 922 active duty service members and 92 reservists. It regularly ranks in the Top 5 Air Force bases in the country. Best reason to be stationed there: The wine. The weather in Northern Italy is also much more temperate, especially in the summertime when Southern Italy gets ultra sweaty. All rights reserved. Operation Military Kids was founded to be a resource for teens and young adults who are interested in joining the military, but don't know where to begin. So the most compelling reason to get to Seoul now is the fact that you might not be able to get there later. Try these simple 'me time for moms' activities to get the recharge you need! Even cooler. This tutorial will help you learn how. When it comes to housing costs, community values, and available amenities, some bases are certainly desirable than others. Another hidden perk: Puerto Rico is on the same time zone as the East Coast and is a US territory -- which makes phone calls back home a lot easier to orchestrate. For example, a staff sergeant without dependents in L.A. gets a monthly BAH of $1,704 and a chief master sergeant without dependents gets $2,373. Okinawans also believe that touching blonde hair is a form of good luck, so blondies will benefit here as incidental celebrities. The Champaign Gal B-25 Mitchell bomber . This makes ordering a bowl of delicious, not-from-a-pack ramen that much easier. "It's better for my family.". Traditionally, in America, you get married. And the Thunderbirds cant be beaten! Others make the decision early on to focus on their family, and may turn down career opportunities in order to stay close. Outdoor activities are also abundant given all the natural features in the area. Here are your top choices for couples: #1 - Schofield Barracks, Hawaii Image: Army.mil While living in Hawaii is nice it doesn't make nearly as much sense for military personnel with family due to the high cost of living. But that food is much more expensive than junk food, he said, meaning he sometimes has to make a choice between eating healthily and making ends meet. Here are a few steps you and your spouse can take to improve your chances of achieving personal and professional goals: Look for joint assignments - Each service branch has a program for assigning married couples to the same duty location or within 100 miles of each other. And at the end of each school year, Pizarro said, Bedford High School holds a party for students whose families are transferring away from Hanscom, which is attended by base leaders. What someone that serves the military and is single wants is drastically different from a service member with a wife and kids. There is one piece of advice in particular that has helped many dual-military couples. The remote base is on the little island of Guam in the middle of nowhere on the Pacific. Why you wouldn't want to live there: Almost all assignments to Souda Bay are unaccompanied, which means family members aren't authorized to live there with the service member. In terms of nightlife, Dardo mixes some of the best cocktails in town and OGradys Irish Bar is a popular bar that offers a taste of home in burgers and beer. Just 40 minutes down the road is Prosecco Road, a 20-mile stretch of cliffside vineyards -- most of them still family-run and several of them considered to be the best in the country. Families can take advantage of events like family trivia nights at the base or check out numerous museums in the Tacoma area. While many Air Force families have no choice where they land, those who get stationed at these top-ranked bases consider themselves fortunate. Housing near Lakenheath is among the best with plenty of new and trendy options. "That's more money I can spend on my daughter now, on after-school events," Vargas said. If you're confused about what your service member is currently getting paid, you can view his or her Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). Youll eat your fill of tasty fish & chips here and wash it down with many a pint of beer. But other schools received low rankings from the Great Schools website, dragging the Washington area's school score into the average range of 6 out of 10 possible points. Swim in clear aqua waters off some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Best reason to be stationed there: The beach. Landing at a tight-knit, family-friendly base can make all the difference in life quality. And the last four categories pollution levels, climate, unemployment rates and sales taxes got no additional weighting. Military life has a lot of nuts and bolts. Some couples may opt to focus on their careers and follow every opportunity they are given. Check out this commissary 101 for more information on commissary shopping. It is in Burlington County, New Jersey which might not sound all that terrific for young couples but keep in mind its proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. Or if quieter parks and museums are more your jam, Seoul is bursting with those, too. Elmendorf-Richardson sits near Anchorage, Alaska, and draws in military families from all over the country because of its beauty and excellent medical and dental care, employment assistance, and educational programs. Want to know how much BAH you are currently receiving? But Westervelt said if someone really wants an off-base home, her office can usually find something for them within 20 or 30 minutes of Hanscom. The hospitality doesnt go unnoticed by military personnel making it a great place to feel welcomed. Single-parents and military couples with children must designate a non-military person who will agree, in writing, to accept care of the member's children at any time, 24 hours per day, seven days per week, in the event the military member is called to duty or deployed with no-notice. Military families working and living in San Antonio find that they have very little to complain about, other than the heat! Langley AFB is near Hampton, Virginia. Though the concept of moving to Alaska may overwhelm some families it is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Need to get an ID card? You know, the little things that make up just an ordinary day. Alyssa Ford of the 742nd Missile Squadron take plenty of time to plan out their future as much as possible. Or if youre more a beach person, there are jet-black beaches on Aeolian Islands and pure white beaches on the southern rim of the mainland. Rosa and Capt. By law, BAH is meant to cover 95percent of your housing costs, minus renters insurance. Required fields are marked *. Nature enthusiasts want to spend their time hiking while they tour jungle land with numerous waterfalls. Related Article Top 15 Military Schools For Boys And Girls. Cost of living and housing prices are through the roof around Los Angeles Air Force Base, helping to land it at the bottom of our list of Air Force bases. Final word: Here's a surprise: Stuttgart is a city surrounded by vineyards, so in some ways its known more for its wine than its beer. Families also benefit from no state income or sales tax in the Anchorage area. The Exchange runs well stocked stores, probably better selection of products than on state-side bases. Here are the top 10 US military base towns overseas. Why you wouldn't want to live there: If you're not a city person and consider the traffic, noise, and congestion of city living overwhelming, Seoul isnt for you. If the rates go down where you are living, you will be grandfathered into the older, higher rate. While in the military, he spent time analyzing imagery from a variety of aircraft such as the SR-71. Spicy rice cakes, fish cakes, egg bread, goldfish bread, and fried rice skewers. On a personal scale of best bases I've been to. The base is rural yet only about an hour from London as well as other countries in the area like Scotland. You may have to pretend youre pregnant to garner sympathy from the tour bus of seniors stopped in front of you, just to use their on-board toilet.) Serving the United States Air Force could land you in one of these premium locations depending on what you are seeking during service. For example, $150 will get you to Oktoberfest. LIKE IN THE FUTURE. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Still, there are dozens of beer gardens, brewpubs, and even a couple regional breweries to visit. Best base amenity: The USO offers guided tours and trips to local attractions and neighboring countries, as well as on-base classes that range from wine education to cooking to pottery. Like Harry Potters Room of Requirement, the Exchange will have what you need even before you need it, tax-free! Active-duty military families -- regardless of which branch of service their spouse serves in -- receive benefits through the military's healthcare, which is called Tricare. MWR manages most recreation on every base, including gyms, pools, bowling alleys, horse stables, event centers, golf courses, discounted equipment rentals and more. When you do see the relatives, youll be on your best behavior because youll never be living ten minutes away. Of course, its hard to be separated from everyone during the holidays. Along with having the great wilderness as your backyard (more on that, below), its a great assignment for military families. Well send you our daily roundup of all our favorite stories from across the site, from travel to food to shopping to entertainment. Alongside relying on their peers, dual-military couples often lean on each other for support, especially when it comes to work. I found someone with ambition and drive, someone who gets to thrive with me.. Finding military childcare can feel difficult, but this tutorial can help you. And being situated at the foot of the Dolomite alps cant be so bad, right? Stuttgart also offers big-city shopping, entertainment, and is home to the second-largest mineral source in Europe, which means swimming in hot springs. Creating a list of the best Air Force bases in the nation is not an easy task. For the latest military news and tips on military family benefits and more, subscribe to Military.com and have the information you need delivered directly to your inbox. Why you wouldn't want to live there: In the words of one sailor living in Rota, "the Spanish schedule takes some time to get used to." The on-base amenities for Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi are disappointing. Senior Airman Yash Rojas/Air Force. It is easy to see why they are considered some of the best Air Force bases for families in the nation. Service members also have the choice of journeying north to Alburqurqe and many destinations in Colorado for extended leave vacations. Why you wouldn't want to live there: Driving can be a little crazy. The military base serves as the host for the 6th Air Refueling Wing. It boasts shopping centers, short commute times to large, surrounding cities, a massive 300-bed hospital, and a friendly and welcoming community atmosphere. Break down barriers and start conversations with these practical ways to talk to teens. Most bases worldwide are home to a military commissary operated by a government organization called the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA). Best base amenity: With so many bases located on Okinawa, there is no shortage of amenities. "It's easier sometimes to ask a friend to get you something when they are TDY.". Well, unless youre my husbands cousin, Vic. "It's hard to find anything that'll fit, and there isn't much selection" at the exchange, Do said. Final word: Need more thrill in your life? Since they met, Rosa has been moved to the 742nd Missile Squadron where he now works alongside his wife as a Squadron Evaluator. When you just need stupid AAA batteries, the Exchange will be out. (tied) Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi. 10. It's located on the Greek island of Crete and the site of Europes earliest recorded civilization. Base(s): RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall (slated for closure). Becoming a military family can be an adjustment for families. The base is considered a community within a community by many of its adoring members. The perfect card for your stepmom-in-law, the random pistachio nut blend that your husband loves, or the ber-organic milk brand that even the commissary isnt aware of. Many bases also have available youth programs operated through MWR like dance classes, sports teams and clubs. But you will develop a sense of humor and flexibility about life that others dont have. MacDill Air Force Base sits just four miles outside of Tampa, and for families looking to live near the sun and surf, it seems ideal. Every ornament includes a red satin ribbon and a velvet pouch. Related Article Air Force Bases in Florida. So, where did the lucky ones get sent? Capt. Communication strategies for couples Stay connected during deployment Boost your speaking and listening skills Validation during disagreements Building intimacy in your relationship Bottom line Partners in dual-military marriages are frequently pulled between their relationship and their careers. Did you know that there are nearly 800 Air Force bases around the globe? Bummer deal for those that have accompanied to far worse base towns. Real talk: life is hard. With forty nearby museums to choose from, families will never tire of learning and exploring. The coastal region of Andalucia, where the base is situated, is also known as "the Florida of Europe," but were still unclear if that is intended as a compliment. Located in scenic Tacoma, Washington, Lewis-McChord has everything a family might need to feel at home. Being close to a major city provides families with additional activities to entertain those of all ages during non-working hours. Best base amenity: There are four (yep, FOUR) crystal-clear, warm-water beaches on base and they never get overcrowded. This means your best bet for restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment are in Cambridge -- about 45 minutes away -- and traffic is said to be "bloody awful." Theyre just cool. We would like to show you a description here but the site won't allow us. Seoul is something of a technological marvel, too. Our jobs are busy, our families are busy, even our very minds are busy. The average commute in the Washington area is roughly half an hour, and hits nearly 40 minutes in the area right around Bolling well longer than the average 25-minute commute nationwide. The overseas location is also instrumental to military operations on the Western Pacific. The beaches are a huge draw for tourists and locals alike, known for calm and clean waters and the caf-lined boardwalk. Luke AFB is a major training facility for the military branch and has excellent amenities. Getting married? But there are some key perks your civilian friends are simply missing out on. To help airmen mitigate the cost of living which Westervelt acknowledged can sometimes make it tough to make ends meet Hanscom offers an on-base fitness center, Olympic-size swimming pool, bowling alley, movie theater, community center, several playgrounds, and a bank, as well as a commissary and medical clinic. Final word: In a place where wine is cheaper than water and food is grown fresh locally, the only danger to your self-esteem in living in Aviano is the threat of expanding that trim military waistline. Jason Do has been stationed at Columbus for five years and called it "one of the worst bases" in the Air Force. Here are the finest locations for the outdoors: What else could you want in an outdoor paradise than Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and its incredible backyard to the Great Outdoors? Here, the commissary is one of the very best and most extensive in the country. Dental insurance is provided to military families through United Concordia . To come up with a school quality score, we used the website GreatSchools.com, a respected resource for ranking and comparing schools used by real estate agents and real estate websites such as Zillow and Realtor.com. Your email address will not be published. Deployment, change of post, and normal job requirements often leave military couples apart for long periods of time. There are tons of perks to being near NOLA, but it isn't for every family. Related Article Best Army Bases for Families, Couples and Singles. As the only active-duty military base in New England, spokesman Justin Oakes said, Hanscom hosts many civilians and service members from other branches of the military, which also leads to a high occupancy rate on base. The programs MWR funds and manages on base are often much more affordable than their off-base counterparts because the government subsidizes their costs. Oh, and lets not forget the food. To receive any military benefits, military family members must be registered in the military's personnel system, the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS), and receive a military ID card. Stacey Shunk, married in March in New York City's Central Park. Here are the best Navy bases in the United States based on criteria like location, housing, amenities, and community support: Being close to Tampa, there is always something for kids to do. The Fotheringhams met in Pensacola, Fla., while volunteering at a Blue Angels show. 5. Why you wouldn't want to live there: Lakenheath is a small, quiet village. Related: Top Credit Cards for Military Members. You will know how to make the best of a 3,400-mile PCS move driving across the frozen Alaskan wilderness to the desert-dom of Las Vegas. Military Welfare and Recreation (MWR) is a major part of base life -- and a part of your benefits. Of course, not all categories are equally important to service members. While the military will always throw a monkey wrench in any best-laid plans, your career doesn't have to be one of them. Be intentional quotes are a great way to remind ourselves to be present and purposeful in life. But yeah, the area is nice for younger couples or retired ones. In 2005, they were stationed together at Vandenberg AFB, Calif., and were able to get joint-spouse assignments until Mr. Nemishs retirement from the Air Force. If You Are Married or Have Dependents If you are married and reside with your spouse or minor dependents, you will live in housing on base or receive a military housing allowance to live off-base. Help with education and career goals. You can find her riding her Vespa around San Diego, on Facebook and Instagram at @bekahdifelice, or on her blog BekahDiFelice.com. If that is not enough, consider that Elmendorf-Richardson has its own ski area. Can you say dream neighbors? Privacy Policy. Best reason to be stationed there: Technicolor everything. Aside from the distinct spirit and customs of Cretan culture, one of its more exclusive sites is the beach of Elafonissi, which when viewed in the right light is covered in pink sand (said to be caused by crushed coral). However, were proud of how far weve come to have more policies to support dual-military couples and those with children, said Col. Nemish. Because of their careers, they often spend weeks apart, but do have the opportunity to collaborate in some aspects of their jobs. Fairbanks is near the base which also provides an outstanding commissary and exchange with a mall and shoppette. Finally, we added up the scores and stacked the bases. You are streamlined and would never think of hoarding. Sara Fotheringham. There is nothing like spending leisure time in the outdoors. Wright-Patterson AFB just makes the cut among many other competing military bases for top honors. That number rose yet again. Military life is not easy, but we've got your back. Hickam Air Force Base is the highest rated Air Force base in Hawaii yet not for everyone which is why it doesnt rank tremendously high overall. The base, located near Dayton, Ohio, has everything that growing families need to make their living experience comfortable and enjoyable. Depending on whom you ask, Rota is either a quiet, family-friendly beach town or a young sailors nightlife dream during the touristy summer months. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer, 4 Qt, Black/gray Features : Now enjoy guilt free food; Air fry with up to 75 percent less fat than traditional frying methods; Tested against hand cut, deep fried French fries Pacific Fleet. Related Article List of Air Force Bases in the US. Youre glad no one can simply pop in because the babys perpetually covered in blueberry juice, youre wearing some ridiculous IF YOURE NOT AMMO YOURE CRAP T-shirt with a degenerate dragon on it.
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