Name: RETURN TO BASE|Fitness, Community, and Finding Purpose Beyond the Uniform
Uploaded: 2026-10-30T12:01:36.000Z
Duration: 31 min 58 s
Channel: Teal Yost

Exploring the journey veterans and service members face when transitioning out of military life, this feature examines how fitness, community connection, and renewed sense of purpose help individuals find identity beyond the uniform. Covers physical wellness, camaraderie, and post-service fulfillment strategies.

How do veterans find purpose after service? Fitness, community, and connection offer a path forward beyond the uniform.

Finding Purpose After the Military: Fitness & Community

Return to Base: Fitness, Community, and Finding Purpose Beyond the Uniform

This week's On the Radar covers the Pentagon's plan to select a site for a new U.S. military installation supporting up to 25,000 troops by June 2027, the Iran war's growing cost now exceeding $47 billion with $29 billion earmarked for munitions replacement, rising TRICARE Young Adult premiums reaching $893/month for Prime in January, and a VeteranLife feature on MLB players who served in WWII and Vietnam.

Pentagon eyes a 25,000-troop base, Iran war costs hit $47B, and TRICARE Young Adult premiums jump in January. Here's your weekly military news roundup.

New Military Base, $47B Iran War Cost & TRICARE Hikes This Week

On the Radar

On The Radar: New U.S. Military Base, Iran War Cost Increases to $47 Billion

This week's military news roundup covers U.S. diplomatic evacuations from Saudi Arabia amid escalating Houthi militant strikes from Yemen, Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer's appointment as senior advisor to the Pentagon's Barracks Task Force, and USS Abraham Lincoln's home port shift from San Diego to Bremerton, WA following 322 days at sea — triggering a PCS move for the carrier's crew and families.

MOH recipient Dakota Meyer takes on barracks reform, Houthi threats escalate, and USS Abraham Lincoln sailors face a major PCS. Catch up on military news.

Houthi Threat, MOH Hero Tackles Barracks & Navy PCS News

On The Radar: Houthi Attacks, MOH Recipient to Lead Barracks Task Force

Military spouses navigating a PCS while pregnant or solo parenting face compounding challenges: coordinating movers, transferring medical records, finding new providers and schools, and losing their support network — all without their service member present due to deployment, underway periods, or TDY. This short covers practical realities and highlights TRICARE-eligible virtual mental health support through Talkspace as a resource for military families in transition.

Coordinating a military move solo is overwhelming. Find out how TRICARE beneficiaries can access virtual therapy through Talkspace during a PCS.

PCS While Pregnant or Parenting Solo: What You Need to Know

PCS, Pregnancy, and Parenting Alone

After a PCS, the boxes are unpacked and the kids are settled — but the grief of leaving behind a support system built over years can linger long after moving day. This short explores why post-PCS loneliness often surfaces once the chaos subsides, touching on the loss of deployment-savvy friends, trusted neighbors, and hard-won community ties at the last duty station. Talkspace is highlighted as a resource connecting military spouses with licensed therapists to support emotional adjustment during the transition.

The house is organized, but the community you spent years building is gone. Here's why PCS loneliness hits hardest after the move is over.

Why PCS Loneliness Hits After the Boxes Are Unpacked

Why PCS Loneliness Hits After the Boxes Are Unpacked | Military Spouse Mental Health

A concise PCS orientation guide to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. Covers gate access including the 24-hour Gate 9 on Bright Out Road, the Visitor Control Center, on-post resources such as Fox Army Health Center, commissary, MWR programs, fitness centers, bowling, and aquatics, plus privatized family housing. Also highlights off-post communities including Huntsville, Madison, Athens, Decatur, and Harvest, and local attractions like the U.S. Space and Rocket Center and Tennessee River.

From Gate 9 access to Fox Army Health Center and Huntsville's best neighborhoods — get your complete Redstone Arsenal orientation in 79 seconds.

PCSing to Redstone Arsenal? Here's What You Need to Know

Welcome to Redstone Arsenal: Your Guide to Base Access, Amenities, and More

Incoming PCS orders to Redstone Arsenal? Huntsville, Alabama offers service members and families a full slate of off-duty activities — from space and science attractions in the Rocket City to North Alabama hiking trails, live music, local art, and a thriving downtown dining scene. Families can explore museums, parks, seasonal festivals, and minor league baseball, while food lovers will find Alabama barbecue, southern comfort food, and upscale restaurants. Day trips to Nashville, Birmingham, and Chattanooga are all within easy reach.

From space museums to Alabama BBQ, Huntsville has plenty to keep Redstone Arsenal families busy on and off the clock.

30+ Things to Do Near Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL

30+ Things to Do Near Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama

This week's On the Radar covers four major military news stories: a Pentagon organization overseeing military PCS moves may become a full defense agency ahead of the 2027 season; President Trump reverses Pete Hegseth's plan to livestream Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan's firing squad execution; absentee voting guidance for military families via FVAP.gov; and the 2027 COLA announced at 3.6%, up from 2.8%, benefiting retirees and Social Security recipients.

New PCS agency, a 3.6% COLA for 2027, Nidal Hasan execution update, and absentee ballot guidance for military families — all on this week's radar.

New Military Move Agency, COLA Rise & Hasan Execution Update

On The Radar: New Agency to Oversee Military Moves, COLA Update, Hasan Execution

This week's military news roundup covers three major stories: a congressional report revealing U.S. military aircraft losses in the Iran war have nearly doubled to 81, including 45 Reaper drones; the Pentagon's plan for a new mega-base housing up to 25,000 troops with states competing for the installation; and the scheduled firing squad execution of Nidal Hasan, convicted of the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, which would be the military's first execution since 1961.

Aircraft losses nearly double, states compete for a Pentagon mega-base, and the military's first execution since 1961 is scheduled. This week on the Radar.

On the Radar: Aircraft Losses, New Mega-Base & Military Execution

On The Radar: Damaged Aircraft, Base Competition, Execution by Firing Squad

Joint Base Lindsey-Graham, located in coastal South Carolina, hosts over 60 DoD and federal agencies and supports 90,000+ service members, dependents, and retirees. This guide covers the base's two sub-installations — the Air Base and Weapons Station — including on-base housing, commissaries, exchanges, schools, recreation, and off-base life near historic Charleston.

Everything you need to know about Joint Base Lindsey-Graham — housing, schools, rec, and living near historic Charleston, SC.

Welcome to Joint Base Lindsey-Graham | Your PCS Guide to Team Charleston

Welcome to Joint Base Lindsey Graham! Everything You Need to Know About Your New Duty Station

Explore 30+ things to do near Joint Base Lindsey Graham in the greater Charleston, SC area. From discounted tickets at ITT offices to the South Carolina Aquarium, Drayton Hall, veteran-owned restaurants like Swig and Swine, live music venues, Theater 99, Charleston Fun Park, and Whirlin' Waters, plus weekend trips to Georgetown, Myrtle Beach, and Savannah, GA.

From discounted ITT tickets to dog-friendly dining and weekend trips to Myrtle Beach and Savannah, JBLG has no shortage of adventures waiting for you.

30+ Things to Do Near Joint Base Lindsey Graham

30+ Things to Do Near Joint Base Lindsey Graham in North Charleston, Goose Creek, and Summerville!

Stationed at Naval Base Point Loma and searching for off-base activities? This guide covers 25+ attractions near the installation, from the historic Cabrillo National Monument and Torrey Pines Glider Port to Mission Beach Boardwalk, Belmont Park, the Comic-Con Museum, and veteran-owned dining spots like Bonehead Burgers — all within reach of San Diego's Point Loma Peninsula.

From coastal trails at Cabrillo National Monument to paragliding at Torrey Pines, here's what to do on your day off near Naval Base Point Loma.

25+ Things to Do Near Naval Base Point Loma in San Diego

25+ Things to Do Near Naval Base Point Loma in Pacific Beach, San Diego, and La Jolla!

Naval Base Point Loma, consolidated in 1998 from six sub-installations, supports over 22,000 active duty personnel, reservists, civilians, and contractors. This guide covers base access via the Pass-and-ID office, housing support through Naval Base San Diego Housing Services Center, NEX amenities, nearby commissaries at NB San Diego and Coronado, and off-duty recreation including parks, beaches, marina, and Cabrillo National Monument.

Just PCS'd to Point Loma? Get the essentials on base access, housing, the NEX, nearby commissaries, and San Diego recreation all in one place.

Welcome to Naval Base Point Loma — Your PCS Guide

Welcome to Naval Base Point Loma! Everything You Need to Know About Your New Duty Station

This week's military news roundup covers Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth avoiding an impeachment vote after House Speaker Mike Johnson called an early recess, Space Force confirming weapons deployed in orbit for the first time, Air Force efforts to update military spouse contact records after gaps emerged during the Iran conflict, and TSA's Honor Lane program expanding to 30+ airports with dedicated security lanes for service members, veterans, and families.

Space Force confirms weapons in orbit, Hegseth skips impeachment vote, and TSA Honor Lane hits 30+ airports. Catch this week's military news roundup.

Hegseth Escapes Vote, Space Weapons Confirmed & Honor Lane Grows

On The Radar: Hegseth Avoids Impeachment Vote, Weapons in Space, Honor Lane Expands to 30 Airports

This week's military news roundup covers four key stories: Senate lawmakers pushing for congressional oversight of Pentagon senior officer firings under SecDef Pete Hegseth; naval aviators calling for long-term brain health studies on high-G flight effects; new DoD-wide fitness standards mandating two annual fitness tests and body composition checks for all active-duty troops; and the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks that shaped a generation of military service.

This week: Senate pushes back on Pentagon officer firings, DoD rolls out new fitness standards, and America marks 25 years since 9/11.

Senate Eyes Pentagon Firings, New Fitness Rules & 9/11's 25th Anniversary

On The Radar: Oversight Over Military Firings, Fitness Standards, 25 Years Since 9/11

This week's military news roundup covers six months of the U.S.-Iran conflict with stalled peace talks and continued deployments, the Navy's damaged NSA Bahrain base home to U.S. 5th Fleet, a short-term funding bill averting another government shutdown, and a tribute to Dolly Parton's decades of support for the military community including USO programs and a KC-135 named Miss Dolly.

Six months in, the U.S.-Iran conflict rages on. Plus, NSA Bahrain damage update, shutdown averted, and Dolly Parton's military legacy.

Iran Talks Stall & NSA Bahrain Damage: What It Means for Military Families

On The Radar: Iran Talks Stall, NSA Bahrain, Dolly's Connection to Servicemembers

This week's military news roundup covers six months of the U.S.-Iran conflict with peace talks stalled and deployments ongoing, the Navy's damaged NSA Bahrain base displacing thousands of 5th Fleet personnel, a short-term Congressional funding bill averting a government shutdown, and a tribute to Dolly Parton's decades of USO support and military community service.

Peace talks stalled, NSA Bahrain displaced, shutdown averted — plus Dolly Parton's lasting military legacy. This week's must-know military news.

Iran Talks Stall & NSA Bahrain Crisis: What It Means for Military Families

Newly assigned to Hill Air Force Base in Utah? From on-base golf and bowling to Union Station's firearms, railroad, and classic car museums, the surrounding Ogden-Layton region offers diverse dining, dog-friendly parks, and epic day trips to Park City, Lava Hot Springs, and the Bonneville Salt Flats.

From on-base bowling to the Bonneville Salt Flats, here's your guide to exploring everything near Hill Air Force Base in Utah.

25+ Things to Do Near Hill AFB — Your Utah Adventure Guide

25+ Things to Do Near Hill AFB in Ogden, Layton, and More!

An orientation guide for incoming personnel reporting to Hill Air Force Base, home of the 75th Air Base Wing in northern Utah. Covers the base's major missions including the Ogden Air Logistics Complex, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, and the 388th and 419th Fighter Wings. Highlights gate check-in procedures, Visitor Control Center requirements, on-base recreation, and off-base attractions near Ogden.

Arriving at Hill AFB on orders? Get the full orientation — missions, check-in steps, on-base recreation, and Ogden area highlights.

Welcome to Hill AFB: Your New Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Hill Air Force Base! Your New Duty Station Guide

Stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base in eastern Washington? Discover top activities on and off base, from bowling at the Red Morgan Community Center to dining at Frank's Diner and The Flying Goat. Explore Riverfront Park, Riverside State Park, pet-friendly trails, and day trips to Coeur d'Alene, Wallace, Idaho, and Leavenworth's Bavarian village.

From on-base bowling to Spokane's best restaurants and Pacific Northwest day trips, here's your guide to life near Fairchild AFB.

Best Things to Do Near Fairchild AFB in Spokane, WA

25+ Best Things to Do Near Fairchild AFB in Spokane

A comprehensive orientation guide for incoming service members and families reporting to Fairchild Air Force Base, home of the 92nd Air Refueling Wing in eastern Washington near Spokane. Covers base layout across 6,151 acres, gate check-in procedures, Visitor Control Center requirements, on-base recreation, and off-base attractions including Riverside State Park and Spokane dining and entertainment.

Everything incoming service members and families need to know about Fairchild Air Force Base, the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, and life near Spokane, WA.

Welcome to Fairchild AFB — Your Duty Station Breakdown

Welcome to Fairchild AFB! Your New Duty Station Guide

This week's military news roundup covers six months of U.S.-Iran conflict with 18 service members killed and $37.5B spent, USS Abraham Lincoln sailors earning shore leave in Thailand after 250+ days at sea, a new Blue Angels flight suit contract awarded to Virginia-based Aquila International, and Air Force unveiling B-21 Raider-themed uniforms for their October 3rd home game against Navy in Colorado Springs.

18 service members killed, $37.5B spent, and the Strait of Hormuz under pressure — plus USS Lincoln R&R and Air Force's B-21 Raider football uniforms.

Six Months of U.S.-Iran Conflict: Casualties, Costs & What's Next

On The Radar: Six-Month Conflict with Iran, USS Lincoln R&R, Air Force Football Uniforms

National Guard and Reserve families face unique emotional challenges distinct from active-duty life — balancing civilian work, school, and family routines while managing unpredictable training, disaster response, and deployment cycles. This short-form feature explores the psychological toll on service members and their families, and highlights Talkspace virtual therapy as a TRICARE-eligible mental health resource for those navigating the demands of part-time military service.

Balancing civilian life with military service takes a toll. Discover how Guard and Reserve families can access virtual mental health support through TRICARE and Talkspace.

The Hidden Emotional Toll on Guard & Reserve Families

The Hidden Emotional Demands of Service in the US Military's Reserves and National Guard

This week's On the Radar covers the White House's new military technology strategy prioritizing undersea warfare, space, and AI; President Trump's order for the Navy to revert to steam-powered catapults on Ford-class carriers over the newer EMALS system; and National Park Week starting August 22nd, including free military passes for active-duty service members, veterans, and Gold Star families.

White House unveils military tech strategy, Trump mandates steam catapults on carriers, and the military community scores free national park passes.

Military Tech, Steam Catapults & Free National Park Passes

On The Radar: Military Tech Priorities, Trump Demands Steam Catapults on Carriers & National Park Week

Newly assigned to Moody Air Force Base in southern Georgia? This guide covers on-base recreation at The Spot—bowling, escape rooms, and a café—plus off-base highlights including Wild Adventures theme park in Valdosta with military discounts, local dining at La Taqueria, Family Pizza House, and Smoke and Pig BBQ, dog-friendly trails at Azalea City Trail and Freedom Park, and day trips to Thomasville, Tallahassee, and Jekyll Island.

From Wild Adventures theme park to Jekyll Island beach getaways, here's your guide to making the most of life near Moody Air Force Base in southern Georgia.

Things to Do Near Moody AFB: Valdosta & Beyond

25+ Things to Do Near Moody AFB in Clarksville, Valdosta, and More!

A comprehensive welcome guide to Moody Air Force Base in southern Georgia, home of the 23rd Wing Flying Tigers and 598th Range Squadron. The 9,300-acre installation supports nearly 4,500 service members and their families near Valdosta. Covers check-in procedures, on-base amenities, and local attractions.

Everything you need to know arriving at Moody AFB — from gate check-in to the Flying Tigers community, bowling, escape rooms, and Valdosta's local scene.

Welcome to Moody AFB — Your New Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Moody AFB! Your New Duty Station Guide

Newly assigned to Fort Campbell? This guide covers the best activities in the Clarksville, TN/KY region, from on-base golf and bowling to the Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum, Roxy Regional Theater, local dining spots like Black Horse Pub and Casa d'Italia, outdoor trails at Dunbar Cave State Park, and day trips to Nashville and Mammoth Cave.

From on-base amenities to Nashville day trips, here's your guide to making the most of life near Fort Campbell in Clarksville, TN.

25+ Things to Do Near Fort Campbell in Clarksville

Fort Campbell, home of the 101st Airborne Division, straddles the Tennessee-Kentucky border and spans nearly 105,000 acres. This duty station guide covers installation layout, check-in procedures at the 20th Replacement Company, Visitor Control Centers, and off-duty opportunities in Clarksville, Nashville, and surrounding outdoor recreation areas.

Fort Campbell hosts the 101st Airborne, 160th SOAR, and 5th SFG. Get the full duty station overview — check-in, housing, and off-post life in Clarksville and Nashville.

Welcome to Fort Campbell: Your New Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Fort Campbell, Kentucky! Your New Duty Station Guide

Many veterans mistakenly believe VA dental coverage is reserved solely for those with 100% disability ratings. This short explainer clarifies eligibility for the Veterans Affairs Dental Insurance Program (VADIP), which allows VA health care enrollees and CHAMP VA beneficiaries to purchase dental coverage through approved providers such as MetLife. Coverage spans routine cleanings and exams to fillings, crowns, and root canals.

VADIP opens dental coverage to more veterans than most realize. If you're enrolled in VA health care, you may already qualify — find out how.

VA Dental Coverage Isn't Just for 100% Disabled Veterans

VA Dental Coverage: What Every Veteran Should Know

Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) Parris Island has trained East Coast Marines since 1915, processing roughly 20,000 recruits annually. This base guide covers gate access, the Visitor Control Center, Military Housing Office, Commissary, Exchange, and nearby MCAS Beaufort's additional facilities, plus the historic Port Royal and Beaufort, SC communities.

From gate check-in to off-base communities, get the full picture of life at MCRD Parris Island on the South Carolina coast.

Arriving at MCRD Parris Island? Here's What to Expect

Welcome to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island! Your New Duty Station

Discover 25+ activities near Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in the South Carolina Lowcountry. From the on-base Parris Island Museum and military-friendly restaurants in Beaufort and Port Royal to coastal trails, historic preserves, and weekend getaways to Savannah, Columbia, and Jacksonville, this guide covers recreation options for Marines, families, and visitors.

From the Parris Island Museum to Beaufort's coastal trails and nearby Savannah getaways, discover the best activities for Marines and families in the SC Lowcountry.

Things to Do Near MCRD Parris Island: Beaufort & Beyond

25+ Things to Do Near MCRD Parris Island in Port Royal, Beaufort, and More!

Newly PCS'd to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, NC? This guide covers on-base recreation, local dining, parks, pet-friendly patios, and day trips to Raleigh, Wilmington, and Asheboro — including museums, beaches, a zoo, and the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.

Just PCS'd to Seymour Johnson AFB? Discover dining, parks, pet-friendly spots, and day trips to Raleigh, Wilmington, and Asheboro.

25+ Things to Do Near Seymour Johnson AFB in Goldsboro

25+ Things to Do Near Seymour Johnson AFB in Goldsboro, Pikeville, and More!

An orientation guide for incoming personnel at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Covers the 4th Fighter Wing and 916th Air Refueling Wing's F-15E Strike Eagle mission, installation population of nearly 4,500 military members and 1,500 civilians, check-in procedures, on-base amenities including bowling and a library, and off-base recreation in Goldsboro.

Everything incoming service members and families need to know about Seymour Johnson AFB — from gate check-in to local Goldsboro recreation.

Welcome to Seymour Johnson AFB — Your Duty Station Starter Guide

Welcome to Seymour Johnson AFB! Your New Duty Station Guide

This week's military news roundup covers the Pentagon's planned Iraq withdrawal by September 30th, transferring ISIS counterterrorism operations to Iraqi security forces. Lawmakers demand Navy accountability over deteriorating conditions aboard USS Abraham Lincoln after an extended deployment supporting Iran conflict operations. Joint Base Charleston is officially renamed Joint Base Lindsey honoring the late Sen. Lindsey Graham. Fort Hood debuts alcohol sales at its new campus-style dining facility.

From the Iraq withdrawal deadline to USS Lincoln deployment concerns and Fort Hood's new dining policy — here's what's on the radar this week.

Iraq Withdrawal, USS Lincoln Crisis & Beer at Fort Hood

On The Radar: Iraq Withdrawal, USS Lincoln Concerns, Beer at the Chow Hall

Newly assigned to Keesler Air Force Base? This guide covers on-base amenities like bowling, golf, and FAMCAMP beach access, plus local attractions in Biloxi including the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum, top dining spots like The Reef and McElroy's Harbor House, outdoor recreation at Pillar Park and Pops Ferry Dog Park, and day trip options to New Orleans, Mobile, and Navarre Beach.

From FAMCAMP beach access to New Orleans day trips, here's your complete guide to life and recreation near Keesler AFB on the Gulf Coast.

25+ Things to Do Near Keesler AFB in Biloxi & Beyond

25+ Things to Do Near Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Gulfport, and More!

An orientation guide to Keesler Air Force Base, located on the Gulf Coast in Biloxi, Mississippi. Home to the 81st Training Wing and 403rd Wing under Air Education and Training Command (AETC), Keesler supports nearly 5,000 military personnel, 1,625 civilians, and 4,763 family members. Covers installation entry procedures, Visitor Control Center requirements, and off-duty recreation including golf, bowling, camping, Hiller Park, and Biloxi Beach.

Arriving at Keesler AFB? Learn about the 81st Training Wing, check-in procedures, and what to do on and off base in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Welcome to Keesler AFB — Your Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Keesler Air Force Base! Your New Duty Station Guide

This week's military news roundup covers North Korea's latest short-range ballistic missile launch ahead of U.S.-South Korea exercises, Congress delaying a vote on the TACAVA veterans benefits package over funding concerns, a close call near Reagan National Airport involving Marine One and a commercial jet, and a CBO report estimating the Navy's proposed Trump-class battleship at $23.4 billion — 55% over the Navy's original estimate.

This week: North Korea launches a ballistic missile, Congress stalls on veterans benefits, a Reagan Airport close call, and the Trump-class battleship costs billions more than expected.

On the Radar: North Korea Missile, TACAVA Delayed, Trump-Class Battleship Costs

On The Radar: North Korea, Congress Delays Veterans Package Vote, Trump Class Battleships

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: 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.

Return to Base: Fitness, Community, and Finding Purpose Beyond the Uniform

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