Year of the Military Family: What does it mean for you?
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Senior Chief Yeoman Ken Edgerton greets his family at a homecoming ceremony in August 2007. (U.S. Navy photo)
Congress declared 2009 the Year of the Military Family and urged President Obama to issue a proclamation doing the same. It's a symbolic gesture that doesn't come with any new benefits or funding for support programs. But along with Michelle Obama's emphasis on military families, it could signal further action ahead to ease the burden on those who serve the country without uniforms.
I recently asked Northwest Navy News followers on Twitter what they'd like to see in terms of real action to support military families.
Kitsap-based Navy wife ambyrle said she'd appreciate a higher housing allowance and education aid for spouses. She also suggested housing allowance be based on a spouse's location if attending school full time.
Chances for a pay raise greater than the 2.9 percent proposed in President Obama's budget also has some military families cautiously optimistic.
Beyond what the government can do, MilAve_Leanne wrote a thoughtful piece about what support from neighbors, friends and relatives means to military families.
How about you? What would make the greatest difference for you? Please take a minute to vote in our poll or share your thoughts in the comments below.