Name: 2025 Military Gift Guide: Unique Personalized Ideas
Uploaded: 2026-03-11T20:12:39+00:00
Duration: 31 s
Channel: Teal Yost
Description: Discover unique personalized military gift ideas for 2025. Find meaningful presents for service members, veterans, and military families this holiday season.

A short-form awareness spot addressing the unique emotional burdens faced by military families — frequent deployments, constant PCS moves, and chronic stress. The video delivers a candid, relatable message encouraging service members and military spouses to seek mental health support, framing therapy and conversation as accessible, necessary resources.

Deployments, endless moves, and military stress add up. This is your sign — mental health support matters for military families.

Military Life Is Hard — Here's Your Sign to Get Support

Influencer Sizzle: Mental Health Awareness for Military Families

This week's military news roundup covers CENTCOM's OPSEC warning to deployed troops about Iranian surveillance via social media, the Pentagon's move to rename Joint Base Charleston as Joint Base Lindsey Graham, the Marine Corps accepting its final MV-22B Osprey after 359 deliveries, and how creative arts therapy is helping veterans cope with TBI and PTSD.

CENTCOM OPSEC alert, Joint Base Lindsey Graham naming, final MV-22B Osprey delivery, and creative arts therapy for veterans — your weekly military briefing.

Iran OPSEC Threat, Base Rename & Last Osprey | On the Radar

On the Radar

On The Radar: Iran OPSEC, Joint Base Lindsey Graham, Last MV-22B Ospreys

Newly assigned to Vandenberg Space Force Base on California's central coast? This guide covers on-base recreation including Fam Camp and bowling, plus off-base dining in Santa Maria at local favorites like the Hitching Post and Floriano's Restaurant. Explore Surf Beach, Burton Mesa Ecological Reserve, and dog-friendly patios, with day trips to Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Los Angeles all within reach.

From on-base Fam Camp to Santa Maria dining and coastal trails, here's how to make the most of life near Vandenberg Space Force Base.

Things to Do Near Vandenberg SFB: Santa Maria, SB & Beyond

20+ Things to Do Near Vandenberg SFB In Vandenberg, Santa Maria, and More!

A duty station orientation guide for incoming personnel at Vandenberg Space Force Base, home to Space Launch Delta 30 on California's central coast. Covers base demographics, gate check-in procedures, Visitor Control Center requirements, on-base recreation including FAMCAMP stargazing, bowling, and the Rod and Gun Club, plus off-base attractions in Santa Barbara County.

New to Vandenberg SFB? Discover check-in procedures, on-base recreation, and off-base attractions near Santa Barbara County, California.

Welcome to Vandenberg SFB: Your New Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Vandenberg SFB! Your New Duty Station Guide

Newly assigned to NAS Jacksonville in northeastern Florida? This guide covers on-base recreation like golf and bowling, off-base attractions including the USS Orlik Naval Museum and Duval County Veterans Memorial Wall, local dining highlights, dog-friendly outdoor parks, and day trips to Amelia Island, Ichetucknee Springs, and Ocala.

From the USS Orlik Naval Museum to dog-friendly parks and day trips to Amelia Island, NAS Jacksonville has no shortage of adventures waiting for you.

Things to Do Near NAS Jacksonville — On & Off Base

25+ Things to Do Near NAS Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach, and More!

Naval Air Station Jacksonville — the largest installation in Navy Region Southeast — spans 3,800+ acres along the St. Johns River and hosts seven active-duty VP squadrons flying P-8A Poseidon aircraft, reserve and helicopter squadrons, and an MQ-4C Triton UAS unit. This guide covers gate entry procedures, CNRSE check-in, Visitor Control Center access, on-base recreation, and local Jacksonville and Orange Park attractions for incoming service members.

NAS Jacksonville hosts P-8A Poseidon and MQ-4C Triton squadrons. Get check-in tips, on-base amenities, and local area highlights for your new duty station.

Welcome to NAS Jacksonville — Duty Station Guide

Welcome to NAS Jacksonville! Your New Duty Station Guide

Fort Jackson, South Carolina — the largest and most active initial entry training center in the U.S. — processes nearly 50% of all Army soldiers annually. This guide covers base access via multiple gates, in-processing at the Strom Thurmond Building, visitor control procedures, and off-duty amenities including a lake, golf courses, and a water park. The nearby city of Columbia offers restaurants, museums, and community theater.

Fort Jackson hosts nearly 50% of all Army initial entry training. Get the full guide to base access, in-processing, and amenities at this major SC installation.

Welcome to Fort Jackson: Base Access, Amenities & More

Welcome to Fort Jackson, SC! Your Guide to Base Access, Amenities, and More

Newly assigned to Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina? This guide covers on-post attractions like Palmetto Falls Water Park and three base museums, plus local dining options such as Midwood Smokehouse and California Dreaming. Outdoor recreation at Sesquicentennial State Park and the West Columbia Riverwalk, dog-friendly patios, and day trips to Lake Murray, Modesto Beach, and Charleston are all highlighted.

From on-post water parks to Charleston day trips, discover the best activities, dining, and outdoor adventures near Fort Jackson, Columbia, SC.

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Jackson in Columbia, SC

This week's military news roundup covers the House-passed FY2027 National Defense Authorization Act, which proposes a 5-7% pay raise and a larger active duty force. The Pentagon reports the Iran conflict has cost $37.5 billion, with a $67.1 billion supplemental request before Congress. The Army's new FEED program launches August 3rd at Fort Stewart, Georgia, giving soldiers meal card access to on-base restaurants. Plus, Team Rubicon CEO Jim Brooks discusses veteran-led disaster relief on the Return to Base podcast.

FY2027 defense bill advances, Iran conflict costs hit $37.5B, and soldiers at Fort Stewart get new on-base dining options starting August 3rd.

NDAA Pay Raise, Iran War Costs & Army's New Dining Program

On The Radar: Defense Bill, Cost of Iran Conflict, Dining Options for Soldiers

PCSing to Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas? This guide covers everything incoming airmen and military families need to know — from gate access and on-base housing to schools, medical care, fitness centers, and outdoor recreation. The 82nd Training Wing and 80th Flying Training Wing keep the tempo high, and this overview helps newcomers get oriented fast, with local dining, parks, and off-base highlights included.

From gate access to local eats, this Sheppard AFB welcome guide covers everything military families need after a PCS to Wichita Falls, Texas.

New to Sheppard AFB? Here's What You Need to Know First

Welcome to Sheppard AFB! Your Guide to Base Access, Amenities, and More

PCSing to Sheppard Air Force Base? Wichita Falls, Texas offers more than you might expect. From splash pads, River Bend Nature Center, and local theater for families, to date nights downtown and rodeos for a full Texas experience. Discover pet-friendly patios, military discounts, cross-border casinos in Oklahoma, and quirky landmarks like the world's littlest skyscraper.

From splash pads and rodeos to military discounts and Oklahoma casinos, here's your guide to life near Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas.

30+ Things to Do Near Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls

30+ Things to Do Near Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas

An orientation overview of Fort Lee, Virginia, home of the Combined Arms Support Command and Sustainment Center of Excellence. Covers key installations including the U.S. Army Quartermaster, Ordnance, and Transportation Schools, Army Logistics University, and Defense Contract Management Agency. Provides practical PCS arrival guidance on gate access, the Visitor Control Center, Soldier Support Center, Housing Services, Commissary, and Main Exchange. Highlights on-post recreation and the broader Richmond, VA Mid-Atlantic region.

Everything incoming soldiers and families need to know about Fort Lee, VA — from gate access and housing to on-post recreation near Richmond.

Welcome to Fort Lee: Your Complete Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Fort Lee! Everything You Need to Know About Your New Duty Station

Fort Lee, Virginia offers easy access to a wealth of activities in the Tri-Cities region and Richmond. Soldiers and families can explore the U.S. Army Quartermaster Museum and U.S. Army Women's Museum on base, then venture out to Pocahontas State Park, Tree Time Adventures ropes course, veteran-owned Escape Adventures, and Unplugged Games Cafe. The area also boasts diverse dining with pet-friendly patios, plus weekend getaway options to Washington, D.C. and Virginia Beach.

From on-base Army museums to Pocahontas State Park and Richmond restaurants, Fort Lee offers endless options for your next day off.

30+ Things to Do Near Fort Lee: Museums, Parks & More

30+ Things to Do Near Fort Lee in Chester, the Tri-Cities, and Richmond

This week's military news roundup covers Pentagon-mandated annual testosterone screening for active duty service members 30 and older, the bipartisan MOLD Act advancing in Congress to strengthen privatized housing protections, delayed funeral arrangements for retired Air Force Colonel and Senator Lindsey Graham, and Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer PO Scott Ruskin receiving the 2026 Pat Tillman Award for Service after rescuing 165 during the Texas Hill Country floods.

From new Pentagon health policies to the MOLD Act and a Coast Guard hero's Pat Tillman Award — here's what's on the radar in military life this week.

Testosterone Testing, MOLD Act & Lindsey Graham: This Week in Military News

On The Radar: Testosterone Testing, MOLD Act, Lindsey Graham Funeral Delays

Fort Belvoir, situated along the Potomac River, offers service members and their families a wealth of on-base and off-base activities. From bowling and golf on base to historic sites in Alexandria like Woodlawn and the Pope Leahy House, the area is rich in culture and history. Dining options range from Farmhouse Tuscan's live music and Italian cuisine to the Secret Garden Café. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Lake Accomptique Park and the George Washington Mount Vernon Trail, both pet-friendly. Day trips to Washington, D.C., Arlington, VA, and Gettysburg, PA are all within two hours.

From on-base bowling to historic Alexandria and day trips to D.C., Fort Belvoir's surrounding area has something for every military family.

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Belvoir — PCS Guide

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Belvoir in Fairfax County, Springfield, and More

Fort Belvoir, a major Army installation on the Potomac River in Fairfax County, Virginia, hosts over 145 mission partners including the Defense Logistics Agency and National Geospatial Intelligence Agency. With 51,000+ personnel supporting 216,000 service members, retirees, and families, this guide covers gate check-in procedures, Visitor Control Center requirements, on-base recreation, and nearby Alexandria attractions for incoming PCS personnel.

Fort Belvoir hosts 145+ mission partners and 51,000 personnel just 20 miles from D.C. Get the inside scoop on check-in, recreation, and local gems.

Welcome to Fort Belvoir: Your Complete Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Fort Belvoir! Everything You Need to Know About Your New Duty Station

Stationed at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) Twentynine Palms? The Mojave Desert offers more than you'd expect. From Joshua Tree National Park's Arch and Heart Loop trails and historic Keys Ranch tours to international dark sky stargazing, desert wildlife museums, and art galleries, the local area delivers year-round recreation. Pet-friendly dining in 29 Palms, day trips to Palm Springs and San Bernardino, and weekend getaways to LA or Las Vegas round out the experience.

From Joshua Tree National Park stargazing to Palm Springs day trips, MCAGCC 29 Palms is the perfect desert base camp for adventure.

What's There to Do Near 29 Palms? More Than You'd Think

30+ Things to Do Near MCGACC Twentynine Palms in Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, and Palm Springs

Newly assigned to Nellis Air Force Base? This guide covers top local attractions near Las Vegas, NV, including Sunrise Vista Golf Course on base, the Neon Museum, Atomic Museum, and Battlefield Vegas. Highlights local dining favorites, dog-friendly outdoor parks, and day trips to Hoover Dam, Zion National Park, and Laughlin, NV.

From on-base golf to Zion National Park day trips, here's your guide to the best things to do near Nellis AFB in Las Vegas, Nevada.

25+ Things to Do Near Nellis AFB in Las Vegas

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar sits away from downtown San Diego, but service members and families have no shortage of nearby attractions. This guide covers Birch Aquarium at UC San Diego, the Children's Museum of Discovery, Tiny Tiger Indoor Playground, Brewski's Bar and Arcade, Mesa Rim climbing gym, dog-friendly parks and trails, diverse dining options, and weekend trips to Los Angeles and Palm Springs.

From Birch Aquarium to dog-friendly restaurants and weekend trips to LA, here's how to make the most of your tour at MCAS Miramar.

Best Things to Do Near MCAS Miramar in San Diego

25+ Things to Do Near MCAS Miramar in San Diego, El Cajon, and Del Mar

Stationed at Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia? This guide covers on-base recreation, local dining, nature parks, and day trips to Columbia SC, Savannah, and Atlanta. From Riverwalk Augusta to the Georgia Aquarium, discover the best the region has to offer for military families.

From on-base recreation to day trips to Savannah and Atlanta, here's your guide to life near Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia.

Things to Do Near Fort Gordon: Augusta, Savannah & Beyond

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Gordon in Augusta, Savannah & More!

A guide for service members and families PCSing to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, covering on-base recreation at Del Mar Beach, San Onofre, Lake O'Neill, Marine Memorial Golf Course, and Leatherneck Lanes, plus off-base attractions in Oceanside and Carlsbad including the pier, Harbor Village, Brooks Theater, and local dining.

From Del Mar Beach to Oceanside's sunset pier, here's how to make the most of life near Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in SoCal.

25+ Things To Do Near Camp Pendleton, SoCal

25+ Things To Do Near Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in Southern California

Newly assigned to Fort Meade? This guide covers recreation, dining, and day trips in the D.C.-Baltimore corridor. From on-base amenities like Berber Park and the bowling alley to the National Cryptologic Museum, Patapsco Valley State Park, and weekend getaways to Shenandoah National Park, service members and families will find plenty to explore near this Maryland installation.

From the National Cryptologic Museum to Shenandoah weekend getaways, discover the best activities near Fort Meade for military families.

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Meade You Need to Know

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Meade in Odenton, Columbia, and More!

Newly ordered to JEB Little Creek-Fort Story? Discover 30+ top attractions across Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake, VA — from Historic First Landing State Park and the 1790s George Washington-commissioned lighthouse to Blue Pete's Dinner Tour through Back Bay Wildlife Refuge. Explore local dining gems, family entertainment with military discounts, seasonal farm events, and easy day trips to Williamsburg and Charlottesville.

From First Landing State Park to local dining and military discounts near JEB Little Creek-Fort Story — your Virginia Beach adventure starts here.

Best Things to Do Near JEB Little Creek-Fort Story | VA Beach & Norfolk

30+ Things to Do Near JEB Little Creek-Fort Story in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and Norfolk

Discover 30+ activities near Joint Base Langley-Eustis in the Hampton Roads region of coastal Virginia. From the Virginia Living Museum and Colonial Williamsburg to Starving Artist Studio, Cozzy's Comedy Club, Funplex Trampoline Park, and top local dining, this guide covers recreation, history, arts, and family-friendly fun for service members and their families stationed at JBLE.

From Colonial Williamsburg to local seafood spots, discover the best activities near Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

30+ Things to Do Near Joint Base Langley-Eustis

30+ Things to Do Near Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Newport News, and Williamsburg

A guide to recreation and lifestyle activities near MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. Covers on-installation amenities including Seascapes waterfront restaurant, golf, and bowling, plus local Tampa dining spots like Hula Bay Club and Mad Dogs and Englishmen. Highlights outdoor attractions such as Davis Islands Dog Beach, Picnic Island Park, and the Tampa Riverwalk, as well as weekend getaway destinations including St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, and Orlando theme parks.

From waterfront dining on base to Tampa's best beaches and Orlando day trips, here's your go-to activity guide for the MacDill AFB area.

30+ Things to Do Near MacDill AFB in Tampa — On & Off Base

30+ Things to Do Near MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa and Surrounding Areas

Newly assigned to Naval Air Station Oceana? Virginia Beach offers year-round activities beyond its vacation reputation. From the Military Aviation Museum and indoor skydiving at iFLY to Hunt Club Farm, Atlantic Surf Park, Sky Zone, and dog-friendly Wasserhund Brewing Company, service members and families have countless options. Day trips to the Outer Banks and King's Dominion add even more adventure.

From the Military Aviation Museum to surf parks and dog-friendly breweries, Virginia Beach has endless fun for NAS Oceana families year-round.

30+ Things to Do Near NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach

30+ Things to Do Near Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake

Newly assigned to Fort Sill? This guide covers on-post attractions like Medicine Bluffs, Geronimo's Gravesite, and the Field Artillery Museum, plus dining hot spots in Lawton including Gangnam Style Korean BBQ and S&B's Burger Joint. Discover outdoor adventures at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and Lake Lawtonka, and explore day trips to Oklahoma City, Wichita Falls, and Chickasha.

Don't let the Oklahoma plains fool you — Fort Sill is packed with history, outdoor adventure, and great dining. Here's your local guide.

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Sill You Haven't Tried Yet

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Sill in Lawton, Fletcher, and More!

Just received PCS orders to Fort Drum? The North Country region between the Great Lakes and Adirondack Mountains offers far more than meets the eye. From the free 10th Mountain Division & Fort Drum Museum to Thousand Islands cruises, Bolt Castle, Herkimer Diamond Mines, Adirondack River Outfitters, and the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park, service members and families have endless recreation and history to explore.

From the 10th Mountain Division Museum to Thousand Islands cruises and Herkimer Diamond Mines, Fort Drum's North Country has endless adventure for military families.

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Drum You Need to Know

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Drum in Watertown, Sackets Harbor, and More!

Stationed at Naval Station Norfolk? The Hampton Roads region offers a wide range of activities for service members and their families. From the Nautilus National Maritime Center and WWII-era battleship tours to treetop ropes courses at the Virginia Aquarium Adventure Park, water parks, dog-friendly trails at the Great Dismal Swamp, and family venues like T-Rex Playland and the Virginia Children's Museum, there's no shortage of ways to spend liberty, a day off, or a long weekend just outside the gates.

From WWII battleship tours to treetop ropes courses and dog-friendly trails, Hampton Roads has plenty to offer sailors and families near NS Norfolk.

Best Things to Do Near Naval Station Norfolk This Weekend

25+ Things to Do Near Naval Station Norfolk in Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach

Stationed at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River? Jacksonville, NC and the surrounding coastal communities offer a wealth of activities for military families — from the Carolina Museum of the Marine and the Beirut Memorial to Hammocks Beach State Park, Glow Mania Laser Tag, Altitude Trampoline Park, and Zing Zoom Children's Museum. Day trips to Wilmington and historic New Bern round out the adventure.

From the Beirut Memorial to coastal day trips, Jacksonville NC has plenty for military families near Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River.

25+ Things to Do Near Camp Lejeune & MCAS New River

25+ Things to Do Near MCAS New River and Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, Swansboro, and Sneads Ferry

Stationed at Naval Air Station Pensacola? This guide highlights top attractions on and off base, including the National Naval Aviation Museum, Blue Angels practices, historic downtown Pensacola with military discounts, white sand beaches with dog-friendly access, Gulf Coast dining featuring Southern Creole, seafood, and BBQ, plus weekend getaway options to Mobile, Alabama and nearby Florida State Parks.

From the National Naval Aviation Museum to Gulf Coast beaches and Southern Creole dining, NAS Pensacola's surrounding area has something for everyone.

30+ Things to Do Near NAS Pensacola You Need to Know

30+ Things to Do Near NAS Pensacola in Pensacola & Surrounding Areas

Newly assigned to Marine Corps Base Quantico? The surrounding communities of Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Dumfries offer far more than a D.C. day trip. From the National Museum of the Marine Corps and Ferry Farm to Widewater State Park, Leesylvania State Park, and Prince William National Forest, service members and families can explore rich history, outdoor recreation, and a diverse local dining scene without leaving the region.

Just got orders to MCB Quantico? Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Dumfries are packed with history, outdoor adventure, and great dining right off base.

20+ Things to Do Near MCB Quantico Without Going to D.C.

20+ Things to Do Near MCB Quantico Near Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Dumfries

This week's military news roundup covers the breakdown of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire amid renewed strikes in the Strait of Hormuz, President Trump's mid-trip switch between Air Force One aircraft following the NATO summit, the 2026 Basic Allowance for Subsistence increase of 2.4% bringing enlisted BAS to nearly $477/month, and the storied history of military challenge coins dating back to World War I.

Ceasefire collapse, Air Force One controversy, a 2.4% BAS increase, and the history of military challenge coins — your weekly military briefing.

Iran Ceasefire, Air Force One Switch & 2026 BAS Explained

On The Radar: Iran Latest, Air Force One, 2026 BAS

Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms is the Corps' largest training installation, spanning 1,100 square miles in the Mojave Desert. This orientation guide covers arriving on orders, checking in at the main gate on Adobe Road, military housing, the Commissary and BX, on-base recreation, and nearby attractions including Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs, and Las Vegas.

Everything incoming Marines and families need to know about MCAGCC 29 Palms — from gate check-in to Joshua Tree and beyond.

Welcome to MCAGCC 29 Palms: Your New Duty Station Guide

Welcome to MCAGCC Twentynine Palms! Everything You Need to Know About Your New Duty Station

Nellis Air Force Base sits just 8 miles from downtown Las Vegas and spans over 14,000 acres, home to the Thunderbirds, the U.S. Air Force Weapons School, and roughly 14,000 military and civilian personnel. Learn how to check in on arrival, navigate the Visitor Control Center, and discover everything the Las Vegas area has to offer off duty.

Home of the Thunderbirds and the USAF Weapons School -- here's everything you need to know before arriving at Nellis AFB.

Nellis AFB Las Vegas -- Your New Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Nellis Air Force Base, Las Vegas! What to Know About Your New Duty Station

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, once known as Fighter Town USA and home of the Navy's legendary Top Gun program, is now the west coast headquarters of Marine Corps Aviation and home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. This guide covers gate entry, check-in at the RPAC, housing support through Naval Base San Diego, the base exchange, commissary, Mills Park, Bob Hope Theater, Memorial Golf Course, and easy access to San Diego.

From the former Top Gun home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing -- everything you need to know before arriving at MCAS Miramar.

MCAS Miramar Duty Station Guide -- Top Gun Base & San Diego

Welcome to MCAS Miramar: Everything You Need to Know About Your New Duty Station

Fort Gordon, Georgia — home of the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence — supports a community of approximately 80,000 service members, families, contractors, and retirees across 55,000 acres near Augusta. This guide covers base entry procedures, visitor access at Gate 6, on-post recreation, and local attractions including Lake Olmstead, the Savannah River, and Augusta's dining and arts scene.

PCSing to Fort Gordon? Get the essentials on gate entry, visitor passes, on-post amenities, and what to explore in the Augusta area.

Fort Gordon, GA -- Base Access, Housing & Things to Do

Welcome to Fort Gordon, Georgia: Housing, Base Access & Things to Do

America turns 250 in 2026, and MyBaseGuide is commemorating the semiquincentennial with a dedicated hub — America 250: Through the Eyes of Those Who Served. Explore a 250-year timeline of American military history, iconic historical images, landmark and battlefield travel guides, and an interactive American Military History Quiz at mybaseguide.com/america250.

From the Revolutionary War to today — discover 250 years of American military history through stories, landmarks, and an interactive quiz.

America Turns 250 -- Explore Military History Your Way

America 250: Through the Eyes of Those Who Served

The Senate voted to reject a war powers resolution limiting U.S. military action in Iran after senators changed positions following administration briefings. The Pentagon reinstated flu vaccine requirements for boot camp recruits following a flu outbreak affecting nearly 300 trainees at Lackland AFB. Plus, the 2026 PCS Hub is live at MyBaseGuide.com, and VeteranLife spotlights the Hello Girls -- 223 bilingual women who served with the Army Signal Corps in WWI but weren't recognized as veterans for nearly 60 years.

Three stories shaping military life this week: Congress, COVID-era vaccine policy reversals, and a WWI story you need to hear.

Senate Rejects Iran War Powers Vote -- Flu Shots Return for Recruits

On the Radar: War Powers Resolution Reversal, Flu Shots for Recruits & Hello Girls History

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton is the West Coast's premier Fleet Marine Force training base, spanning 125,000+ acres in northern San Diego County. This guide covers base access and gate info, on-base housing (nearly 6,900 units), off-base options in Oceanside and Fallbrook, schools, childcare, medical care at Pendleton Naval Hospital, and recreation amenities.

Everything you need to know before arriving at Camp Pendleton -- base access, 6,900+ on-base housing units, schools, medical care, and coastal California living.

Camp Pendleton Guide: Housing, Gates & Base Life

Welcome to Camp Pendleton: Your Guide to Housing, Base Access, and More

Fort Meade sits between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore as home to U.S. Cyber Command, the NSA, and DISA — supporting nearly 70,000 service members, families, and civilians. This guide covers check-in procedures, nearby communities like Odenton and Columbia, outdoor recreation at Patuxent Research Refuge, and weekend trips to D.C. and Shenandoah National Park.

From U.S. Cyber Command to weekend trips to D.C. -- everything you need to know before arriving at Fort Meade, Maryland.

Fort Meade Duty Station Guide -- Cyber, NSA & More

Welcome to Fort Meade! Your New Duty Station Guide

Host Kristi Nix sits down with Bessie Ostrander of United Through Reading, a nonprofit connecting deployed service members with their children through recorded story time. They discuss how the free app works, the emotional impact of shared reading during separations, and how military families across all six branches can access this resource -- including free book delivery to recipients.

Deployed and missing bedtime? The United Through Reading app lets service members record story time for their kids -- and ships a free copy of the book home.

United Through Reading: Staying Close During Deployment

MilSpouses Spotlight

MilSpouse In The House: How United Through Reading Brings Military Families Closer

Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, known as the 'Pearl by the Bay,' supports up to 15,000 personnel and serves as a premier hub for Expeditionary Forces and Navy SEALs. This guide covers gate entry, check-in procedures, housing, commissary, and on-base recreation including Gator Bowling, Eagle Haven Golf Course, and Gator Water Park — plus easy access to Norfolk and Virginia Beach.

From Navy SEAL training grounds to Gator Water Park — here's everything you need to know before you arrive at JEB Little Creek-Fort Story.

JEB Little Creek-Fort Story -- Your PCS Arrival Guide

Welcome to JEB Little Creek-Fort Story! What to Expect at Your New Duty Station

This week's military news roundup covers three major stories: President Trump's U.S.-Iran diplomatic agreement signed at Versailles, Defense Secretary Hegseth's six-month review of U.S. troop deployments in Europe and NATO funding, and the Defense Commissary Agency's expansion of Click2Go doorstep delivery to all 178 U.S. commissaries by September 2025. Plus, a WWII Coca-Cola history segment from Veteran Life.

Weekly military news: the Iran agreement, Europe troop review, commissary Click2Go expansion, and a WWII Coca-Cola history segment.

Iran Deal, NATO Review & Commissary Delivery -- On the Radar

On the Radar: Iran Deal, US Troops in Europe & Expanded Commissary Delivery

Joint Base Langley-Eustis spans 17 miles across Hampton and Newport News, Virginia, housing two distinct missions: Air Combat Command's 1st Fighter Wing on the Langley side and the 7th Transportation Brigade on the Eustis side. This guide covers installation entry points, on-base amenities, and the best of Hampton Roads — from Virginia Beach to Colonial Williamsburg.

Two sides, two missions, one installation. Get the full rundown on JBLE — from checking in at the gate to exploring Virginia Beach and Colonial Williamsburg.

Joint Base Langley-Eustis -- Your Complete Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Joint Base Langley-Eustis! Your New Duty Station Guide

MacDill Air Force Base sits on the Inner Bay Peninsula just four miles south of downtown Tampa, serving as home to 51 tenant units including U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command. This guide covers the base's multi-service mission, gate entry procedures, the Visitor Control Center, and off-duty recreation in Tampa and St. Petersburg.

51 tenant units, two major combatant commands, and the beaches of Tampa Bay -- here's everything you need to know before arriving at MacDill AFB.

MacDill AFB -- Your Complete New Duty Station Guide

Stationed at MacDill AFB? What to Expect at Your New Duty Station

Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach is the Navy's East Coast Master Jet Base, home to roughly 20,000 service members and families. This guide covers check-in procedures at the quarterdeck, the pass and decal office on Tomcat Boulevard, Navy Housing Services, commissary and exchange, plus recreation options at Liberty Centers, bowling alleys, golf course, and shooting range at both the main base and Dam Neck Annex.

From check-in on Tomcat Blvd to Liberty Centers and Dam Neck Annex -- here's everything you need to settle in at NAS Oceana.

NAS Oceana Welcome Guide -- Everything New to Virginia Beach

Welcome to NAS Oceana: Your Complete Guide to Navy's East Coast Master Jet Base

This week's military news roundup covers escalating U.S.-Iran tensions following new strikes and President Trump's warning of further action; Army Colonel and astronaut Frank Rubio's selection for the Artemis III lunar mission alongside Marine veteran Randy Bresnik and Coast Guard Reserve officer Andre Douglas; proposed legislation to give pregnant service members TRICARE flexibility; and a Women Veterans Day tribute featuring the Return to Base podcast with retired CW5 Phyllis Wilson of the Military Women's Memorial Foundation.

From Iran strike warnings to Artemis III's historic crew and Women Veterans Day -- your weekly military briefing covers it all in under 2 minutes.

Iran Strikes, Artemis III & Women Veterans Day -- On the Radar

On the Radar: Iran Tensions, Artemis III Crew & Women Veterans Day

Fort Sill, Oklahoma is the headquarters of the U.S. Army Fire Center of Excellence and a National Historic Landmark. This guide covers what newly arrived service members need to know: entering through Bentley Gate, checking in at the Welcome Center, registering civilian visitors, and exploring the surrounding Lawton and Medicine Park communities. Fort Sill supports 53,000 active duty troops, civilians, and families.

Everything you need for a smooth arrival at Fort Sill -- from gate access and check-in to housing and local things to do in Lawton, Oklahoma.

Fort Sill, OK: PCS Guide -- Housing, Base Access & More

Welcome to Fort Sill! Your Guide to Housing, Base Access, and More

Weekly military news roundup covering House approval of War Powers Resolution limiting Trump's Iran authority, Pentagon fitness standards for troops attending White House UFC event, Marine Corps retirement of AV-8B Harrier II after 40+ years, and all-female veteran team preparing D-Day commemoration jump in Normandy.

This week's military headlines: Congressional action on war powers, fitness requirements for White House UFC event, and the end of the Harrier era.

War Powers, UFC Fitness Standards, and Harrier Retirement

On The Radar: War Powers Resolution, Troops at White House UFC Fight, Harrier Sundown

Comprehensive welcome guide to Fort Drum, home of the 10th Mountain Division. Located in New York's Thousand Islands region, this premier training installation spans 107,000 acres and serves over 15,000 service members. Learn about base access through the Visitor Control Center, housing options, and nearby communities like Watertown and Evans Mills.

Essential guide to Fort Drum military installation featuring base access procedures, housing information, and nearby communities in New York.

2025 Military Gift Guide: Unique Personalized Ideas

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