Military care packages can help you and your service member stay connected despite distance or duty. Here are some appropriate ways to send those care packages.

If you are marrying a service member, congratulations. You are about to join an elite community of people who have committed to serve their country in a profound and meaningful way.

Uniforms help promote a sense of cohesion and belonging among service members and communicate power and discipline to our allies and enemies alike.

As a parent, relative or significant other of someone who has joined or is considering joining the military, you can be confident in the career and personal opportunities available to them.

Active duty and reserve military personnel received a 5.2% military pay raise in 2024. Beyond the salary bump, you’ll be glad to know your loved one has several ways to be financially fit.

Your service member may ask if you can help them with certain personal business that can be hard to handle if they have limited communications or access to technology.

Having a son or daughter in the military can bring about a host of emotions, from pride in their service to concern for their safety. Connecting with other parents can be helpful.

A military promotion is a significant achievement in a service member’s career It’s a testament to their commitment, mastery of duties and skill, and to the service member’s leadership capabilities. Some promotions are more meaningful than others, especially as service members move up in rank.

Anticipating a homecoming can bring mixed emotions like anxiety, excitement and worry. As a family member or friend, you can be a key supporter for your service member.

Communicating with friends and family is very important for service members; a phone call or care package can boost spirits and improve focus. Make a plan with your service member to stay in touch.

As a family member or friend of a service member, understanding military traditions can help you connect with and support your loved one in the military community.

Openly gay, lesbian and bisexual men and women have been permitted to serve in the military since 2011, with LGBTQ acceptance expanding to include transgender individuals in 2021.

This list can help you – whether you are a parent, sibling, friend, fiancé or extended family member – get ready before your service member ships off to basic training, or boot camp.

You may feel proud that your loved one is serving, but it can also be stressful, especially during deployments, trainings, relocations and other life events.

Learn about the many education and career benefits the military provides to service members.