Military Benefits and Honoring Your Military Spouse

Individuals in the military face many challenges, from hard work outdoors in poor weather and dangerous conditions to time away from loved ones and friends. Military spouses are often called upon to pick up and move at a moment’s notice, leaving behind jobs and often raising children without their significant other. National Military Spouse Appreciation Day is May 1, 2018, and this day provides an opportunity to show thanks for the support that spouses provide to their loved ones. Fortunately, there are significant benefits that are available to these dedicated Americans throughout the year. 

Education Benefits

The GI Bill(R) and the Military Spouse Career Advancement Account (MyCAA)are two of the benefits that are available to those married to a member of the U.S. military. MyCAA offers up to $4,000 in financial assistance for spouses seeking an associate’s degree, license or certification while the GI Bill(R) allows service members to transfer their benefits to a spouse or child aged 25 or younger.  

Military Discounts

Many businesses throughout the country offer significant benefits to service members and their spouses or children. This can include everyone from retailers to restaurants, insurance companies, and even mortgage companies. When in doubt, it never hurts to ask if there is a discount for active or retired military families. While many of these discounts are modest, technology and telecommunications companies often provide discounts greater than 10% for goods and services. 

Job Security

Finding a new position when your service member spouse has been relocated can be challenging at best, so the Military Spouse Preference (MSP) program provides preferential treatment to military spouses in vacant civilian positions within the Department of Defense. Through the Military Spouse Appointing Authority, some agencies are even able to appoint a military spouse to a position without competition. 

Protecting our military families is something that is important to the team at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery. We see firsthand how America benefits from the sacrifices that are made every day both at home and abroad. We have a deep understanding of the symbolism in military funerals and will help ensure that your loved one receives the respect that they deserve for their ultimate sacrifice. Contact one of our compassionate staff members today at 480-832-2850 if you have any questions about taking care of your loved one after they have passed.