An inevitable part of military life is moving often. Most military families move every 2 to 3 years, and some even more frequently. Military families understand that mailing addresses are never permanent, and they must be ready to move anywhere in the world.

Is military life hard on families?

Military life can be very stressful on families. Long separations, frequent moves, inconsistent training schedules, late nights in the office and the toll of mental and physical injuries on both the service member and the family can all add up over time.

Can family members use military one source?

Military OneSource services are accessible 24/7, service members and family members can call Military OneSource at 800-342-9647 or go to

What is state of residence for military?

A state of legal residence, or domicile or legal domicile, is the place where the service member thinks of as home, the state where you intend to live after you leave the military. Your state of legal residence may change throughout your life.

Will the military pay for my wife to move?

Timing Is Important. Timing can be important in a military marriage. If you have PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders and get married before you actually make the move, you can have your spouse added to your orders and the military will pay for the relocation of your spouse and her property (furniture and such).

What are three challenges military families face?

During the deployment family members have a range of feelings and experiences, including:

• Concern, worry or panic.
• Loneliness, sadness.
• Added family duties and responsibilities.
• Learning new skills, making new friends.
• Fear for their service member’s safety.
• Feeling overwhelmed.
• Financial difficulties.

What to do if your family member is in the military?

Have your service member contact his or her chain of command to learn what assistance is available to your family. The Department of Defense will use all means available to help you. The services also have relief societies that may be able to provide some emergency support.

How are military families affected by deployments?

“Separations and deployments are truly difficult and our children feel the loss that civilian families cannot even fathom,” according to a member of one military family interviewed for the study. “Their parent is NOT away on a business trip, and our children unfortunately are acutely aware of the risk their deployed parent faces.

Are there travel restrictions for military family members?

A: Travel restrictions were put in place in March 2020 for all official travel for DOD service members and their family members. This includes Permanent Change of Station or Temporary Duty.

How many military families are in the US?

The annual Blue Star Families Military Family Lifestyle survey provides a comprehensive overview of the experiences and challenges being experienced by military families. This year’s survey included more than 6,200 military families, including active duty members and veterans.