If there was one thing I learned when our family left active-duty military life it was that in every transition question or scenario, there were always at least 10 different responses that gave the “what happened to me” version.
I quickly learned that while I couldn’t fully rely on the answers as being correct every single time I was able to get a huge amount of information, extra resources, and even empathy from those military spouses and servicemembers that had already transitioned.
While not hitting “bestie” status, I realized that these were my new community. These were the groups that were going to offer all that “tactical transition” advice that I needed so desperately.
So, I want to pass these along as a great resource as you start to navigate the transition and retirement world. I’ve listed the name of the group, linked it, and added what they say about themselves in their “about” section.
Retired Military Spouse Community
Community group for those spouses already retired from the military. Join us to discuss all things post-retirement!
Spouses of Retired US Military
This group is for the SPOUSE of retired US Military personnel only. If you are an active duty or retired military person please find another group. If your spouse has already retired from the military or is about to, then this is the group for you! If you’re already divorced from the military spouse and have questions pertaining to divorcee benefits, just fill out the questionnaire appropriately.
Military Retirement Information for Spouses & Service Members
Join us to share information about all things retirement-related and life after the military. All branches welcome! This group welcomes spouses of retired and active duty service members within 3 years of retirement. Retired service members and active duty service members within 3 years of retirement are welcome to join as well.
Military Retirement Checklist
Created this group to assist retiring military personnel with a retirement checklist and ease the stress of transitioning to retirement. Please share your experiences and help someone going through this difficult process, in addition, I will try to compile all lessons learned and post at a later date a checklist that can be updated/modified.
U.S. Military Retirees and Veterans Living Overseas
This group is for members of the US military community (retirees, veterans, active duty, and spouses) to exchange advice, experiences, and information about living in a foreign country as a civilian. Whether you’re living overseas now or aspire to move abroad in the future, join us to ask questions and learn from others! Please note that this group is not for discussion about issues of general interest to the military community unless they specifically relate to moving or living overseas.
Military Veterans RV Community
A place for active, retired, and separated military folks to get together and discuss the nomad world of RVing from our perspective. Please share your stories, pictures, and tips/tricks! Be respectful of each other. No politics, items, or services for sale and disparaging behaviors. Your Facebook page must somehow identify you as a veteran. We will check it to clear you to join.
Retired Military Rv’ing
Our group’s mission is to serve the needs of the retired Military, the Service Connected Disabled community, and those otherwise qualified to access MWR Campgrounds or FamCamps. We share camping tips, and traveling ideas and enjoy helping our fellow RVers and campers. The members of this private group are “Traveling The Country We Defended.”
Category 6 Retirees Space A Travel Forum incl. Cat 6 Handicapped
WELCOME: To the Space-A Forum for CAT VI Retirees. Our Main Forum is Located Here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/325711150854371/?ref=share_group_link
This Forum is one of 200+ American Military Forums dedicated to promoting and assisting users with Space-A travel. Please READ everything and watch the videos. They are full of useful information that will answer most of your questions. Any reference to sensitive information (NOT INTENDED FOR PUBLICATION BY DOD, AMC, or The Department of the Navy) is purely coincidental. It is expected that this information WILL NOT be shared by members of our forums.
The Roaming Vet: U.S. Military, Veterans, & Dependents
The Roaming Vet is a community of service members, veterans, and dependents who have a passion for the outdoors & travel spent with people who understand the various struggles of military life and transitioning to the civilian world. This is an opportunity to attend events, ask questions, and find community through a shared love for the outdoors. Please make sure to review the group rules and use your best judgment when meeting up with people.
Military Wives: Life After the Military
This is a group for wives of former active duty, national guard, or reserve military members, as well as wives of those transitioning out but still currently part of the military. When sending a join request please answer ALL questions or your request will be DENIED. *THIS IS NOT A PLACE TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS*
I hope this list has something that helps you in the months and years before and after transition out of active duty military life.
P.S. Have a group that you love that isn’t listed here? Drop me a note on the contact form!
