Tools to Survive Life as a New Army Spouse

The military lifestyle is challenging for the married couple. The Army spouse must navigate their way through a myriad of unusual customs, a less than normal marriage, and sometimes confusing aid offices. They do all this while attempting to form a life for themselves and blend it with that of their soldier. In order to make the most of this challenging but extremely rewarding life the spouse must have the proper tools in the beginning of their new-found adventure. With the proper education, they become monuments of society, ready to break camp and make home wherever the Army sends them.

When a woman or man gets married they are undoubtedly filled with optimism about their future. They do not usually spend a lot of time worrying about how they are going to keep that marriage strong, or have realistic ideas about what happens after the "happily ever after." A new marriage is filled with hope and expectation. When one marries an Army soldier, life is filled with unique situations and unexpected trials. To meet and overcome the challenges that await them, Army spouses must understand their role within the Army structure, clearly recognize and establish a firm foundation for marriage, and be familiar with and able to utilize the resources set aside for their benefit.