Marines
The Corps
Leaders
Units
Organization
Headquarters
USMC History
Join
News
Special Features
Messages
ALMARS
ALNAVS
MARADMINS
Marines TV
Audio Marine Minute
Press Releases
Publications
Social Media
Marines Mobile
Photos
Marines
Family
Community
Bands
Marine Corps Executive Forum
Asset Requests
Non-Aviation Requests
Aviation Requests
Band Requests
Initiatives
Force Design 2030
Talent Management 2030
Training and Education 2030
Skip to main content (Press Enter).
The Corps
Leaders
Units
Organization
Headquarters
USMC History
Join
News
Special Features
Messages
ALMARS
ALNAVS
MARADMINS
Marines TV
Audio Marine Minute
Press Releases
Publications
Social Media
Marines Mobile
Photos
Marines
Family
Community
Bands
Marine Corps Executive Forum
Asset Requests
Non-Aviation Requests
Aviation Requests
Band Requests
Initiatives
Force Design 2030
Talent Management 2030
Training and Education 2030
Home
Family
Family
Official resources and information for Marines and their families.
Announcing the Refresh of Spouse Transition and Readiness Seminar (STARS)
Read More
HQMC Seeks Nominations for the DoD Annual Promoting Excellence in Prevention Award
Read More
International Mind-Body Wellness Day
Read More
Transition Tips for Marine Spouses
Read More
MCAS Cherry Point SMP Point Days of Service Supports Veterans Organic Garden
Read More
Top Stories
Library Resource List
Expanding The Stress Management Toolkit
Stress Management Strategies
Domestic Abuse Reporting Options
What is Injury Prevention
Services
Readiness and Resiliency
Theaters
Lodging
Recreation
Local Area Information
Information, Tickets and Travel
Family Readiness
Single Marine Program
Career and Education
Retail
Fitness
Dining
Think About Your Drinking
If you consume too many drinks and put yourself or others at risk, it may be time to think about your drinking. Drinking can harm your health, relationships, and/or your ability to do your job.
Read More
Talk To Your Teens About Dating Relationships
Read More
Healthy Boundaries and Communications Strengthen a Relationship
Know, communicate, and respect boundaries to build and maintain a healthy, mutually beneficial relationship for all involved.
Read More
Baby Boot Camp Prepares Families For The Transition To Parenthood
There is so much to learn when preparing for the birth of a new baby. It can be an overwhelming experience. New Parent Support Program provides classes and resources in your area to help you during this life-changing event.
Read More
Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month Annual Poster Contest
The Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM) Poster Contest is now accepting submissions. This year’s theme is Step Forward. Prevent. Report. Advocate.
Read More
Show Muscles vs. Go Muscles
All muscles in the human body are important, and if training is optimal, they will look great and help you perform whatever tasks are required. Dive into this list of factors that will guide your training to look great but also enhance performance.
Read More
Get Connected For a Smooth PCS Move
If a PCS move is in the future, don’t try to do it alone. The local Information, Referral and Relocation office can assist with making it less stressful.
Read More
Transition Tips for Marine Spouses
When the time comes to transition from military life back to civilian life, a Marine isn’t the only one who has preparation to do and decisions to make. Spouses are transitioning too.
Read More
HQMC Seeks Nominations for DoD Awards Honoring Exceptional SAPR Personnel
The Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC) Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Section seeks nominations for two Department of Defense (DoD) awards that honor SAPR personnel.
Read More
HQMC Seeks Nominations for the DoD Annual Promoting Excellence in Prevention Award
The Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC) Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Section seeks nominations for the DoD Annual Promoting Excellence in Prevention Award. Each year, DoD SAPRO sponsors recognition for an individual, group, or unit from each Military Service, component, or organization for their work in advancing the primary prevention of sexual assault.
Read More
Getting Ready For A Big Family Change
Change can be scary, but it can also be exciting! Talking about the change, having a plan, and getting connected to resources can make it a little easier. Following are some life changes you may experience as a military family and resources to help you navigate them.
Read More
Sleep Goals For The New Year
Most New Year’s resolutions focus on losing weight, exercising more, reducing stress levels, and being more productive, however, many people may be surprised to learn how closely sleep relates to achieving most of these goals. Getting enough quality sleep is associated with healthier body weight, greater motivation, smarter food choices, better stress management, problem-solving, and attention. Sleep is a habit that deserves just as much attention as other habits, if not more.
Read More
International Mind-Body Wellness Day
January 3 is International Mind-Body Wellness Day, an opportunity to celebrate how a healthy mind and healthy emotions mean a healthy body.
Read More
Announcing the Refresh of Spouse Transition and Readiness Seminar (STARS)
Marine and Family Programs recently re-launched the Spouse Transition and Readiness Seminar, commonly known as STARS. A one-stop resource for spouses to navigate their service member’s transition process.
Read More
New Year, New Choices - How To Make Low-Risk Drinking Choices
Make low-risk drinking choices this New Year and see how your health, fitness, relationships, and finances improve.
Read More
Library Resource List
A list of curated books and resources to support our installation campaigns and programs.
Read More
Fitness During Pregnancy
Exercising during pregnancy can help improve a variety of things from your cardiovascular fitness to improving your sleep. Discover the truths about exercising during pregnancy and remember to always consult with your medical care provider prior to any physical training while pregnant.
Read More
Meet Christina Jones, the NCR Attorney for EFMP Families
Meet Christina Jones! The NCR attorney for the Exceptional Family Member Program.
Read More
Expanding The Stress Management Toolkit
The effects of stress can weigh down Marines like rocks in a rucksack. The Mayo Clinic recommends that individuals master the four “A”s of dealing with stressful situations to help expand their stress management toolkit.
Read More
Discovering Your Family's Values
Families may use different tools and techniques to identify and develop their family values. Review this list of questions to guide your next family discussion on family values.
Read More
Chaplain Won's Perspective on Spirituality: The Protective Superpower
Dive into Chaplain Won’s perspective on Spirituality: The Protective Superpower.
Read More
Starting Tough Conversations: Relationship Red Flags
Read More
Create New Memories This Holiday Season
As a Marine, your current holiday experience may be different then in years past. Try something new – explore what your local installation has to offer this holiday season.
Read More
Meet Derek Brow! The MCI PCI attorney for Exceptional Family Members.
Meet Derek Brow! The MCI PCI attorney for Exceptional Family Members.
Read More
Stress Management Strategies
At one point or another, everyone deals with feelings of stress. Stress is very common and doesn’t have to be a negative thing. In fact, stress is one way the body avoids danger. There are skills that can be learned to help manage stress.
Read More
Meet Vickie O'Brien, the MCI East Attorney for EFMP Families
Meet Vickie O’Brien! The MCI East attorney for the Exceptional Family Member Program.
Read More
The Importance of Your Core's Function
Core function is The body’s ability to stabilize, control and move the spine and trunk. Core refers to all the muscles that stabilize and move the shoulder blades, trunk, pelvis, and hips.
Read More
Sexual Assault Reporting Options
It is important to understand the reporting options available if you are sexually assaulted. Understanding the differences between Restricted and Unrestricted Reporting for sexual assault will help you decide the best reporting choice for you.
Read More
Tips to Staying Fit During the Holidays
Check out these eight tips for staying fit this holiday season.
Read More
Meet Karen Taylor, the MCI West Attorney for EFMP Families
Meet Karen Taylor! The MCI West attorney for the Exceptional Family Member Program.
Read More
Domestic Abuse Reporting Options
Being in an abusive relationship can leave you feeling isolated and scared. You are not alone. Support is available. You have options, resources, and supportive services available to you. Adult victims of domestic abuse have the following reporting options.
Read More
An IDEA Was Born 47 Years Ago Today
National Special Education Day is TODAY. Marking the anniversary of our nation’s first federal special education law – Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act. This day highlights the importance of ensuring that all students achieve high academic standards and quality of life.
Read More
Preparing Your Holiday Expenses Checklist
Don’t let the holiday season drain your wallet. Be prepared by creating a holiday expenses checklist and save money where you can.
Read More
What is injury prevention
Injury prevention is defined as activities to prevent, ameliorate, treat, and/or reduce injury-related disability and death. Injuries can be defined as unintentional and violent. Utilizing the Health Wellness and Performance framework can decrease both intentional and violent injuries.
Read More
Learning At Home With STEAM
STEAM is an educational practice that inspires children to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Teaching relevant, in-demand skills that will prepare students to become innovators in an ever-evolving world is paramount, not only for the future of the students themselves but for the future of the country
Read More
Military/Veterans Crisis Line Video
The Military/Veterans Crisis Line is a fully confidential suicide prevention hotline provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and is available 24/7 to provide assistance, resources, and/or an ear to service members experiencing “thoughts about hurting themselves, having thoughts of suicide, or becoming self-destructive.”
Read More
Personality Traits. Learn Yours and Others.
The Four Lenses training will forever change the way you see the world. Participants discover unique aspects about themselves and everyone around them. Four Lenses help participants discover the differences in perception and perspective amongst four distinct personality types and learn to understand, accept, and value your unique strength, as well as those of your family/friends/coworkers/peers.
Read More
How Tobacco Use Affects Your Capabilities as a Marine
tobacco can affect your capabilities as a Marine? Below are just a few things Marines may experience as a result of tobacco use:
Read More
What's Your Relationship Status With Alcohol?
Do you ever worry that your realtionship with alcohol is heading in the wrong direction? Check your status. Ask yourself if any of the situations in this article sound familiar.
Read More
Tips to Stay Connected this Holiday Season
People celebrating holidays with family, friends, and loved ones can still feel lonely. Connect with those around you to help cope with grief and loss and to prevent loneliness, isolation, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts or ideas.
Read More
USPS 2022 Holiday Shipping Dates For Military Mail
Recommended send-by dates for expected delivery BEFORE December 25.
Read More
How To Support A Peer After A Sexual Assault
Addressing someone you know after they've suffered a sexual assault can be a difficult and unique challenge. Take a look at some of these tips and tactics that can aid you in your approach to help.
Read More
Partnership brings Vet Center to Marine Corps Museum
The United States Marine Corps signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and on November 8, at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, a ceremony to commemorate the signing was held
Read More
Talking to Your Kids: How to Get Beyond Fine
Is your child’s favorite word fine? Review these tips to assist your child in opening up, while growing your relationship with them.
Read More
Everything You Need to Know About Operation Tobacco-Free Marine
Operation Tobacco-Free Marine (OTFM) Tobacco Cessation Program was developed to provide the Marine Corps community with the first of its kind, evidence-based tools to help tobacco users quit successfully. The standardized nature of the program is intended to provide Marines and families consistent health education programming and continuity of care as they attempt to quit tobacco; while also dealing with the challenges of military life.
Read More
Marine Corps Birthday Ball: Etiquette Do's & Dont's
The Birthday Ball is one of the biggest events on the Marine Corps calendar. It is a chance to get dressed to the nines, enjoy an evening of tradition, and celebrate the history of the Corps.
Read More
New Room Reservation Options Available for Lodging
A new 24/7 telephone room reservation service is now available for TDY, PCS and Marine Corps Community Services operated recreational lodging facilities by calling 1-888-409-STAY(7829). This new capability is provided in partnership with the Navy Exchange Service Command’s Department of Defense Reservation Center.
Read More
Do You Fight Fair?
Conflict is a normal and healthy part of every relationship. Well-managed conflict can promote growth, intimacy, and trust in a relationship. Unresolved conflict, poor communication, and unhealthy interactions can chip away at the foundation of a relationship and increase relationship dissatisfaction.
Read More
How to Create a No Bully Zone at Home
October is National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month. Bullying happens when others seek to harm or intimidate another person. Parents, schools, communities, and children play an important role in educating others and raising awareness for bullying prevention.
Read More
Prescription Drug Take Back Day and Awareness
The Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects DEA’s commitment to Americans’ safety and health, encouraging the public to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a measure of preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting.
Read More
The Ripple Effect of Hazing, Bullying & Sexual Assault
All service members deserve to work and live in a respectful, inclusive environment while serving our nation. There are many aspects to hazing, bullying, and sexual assault that can cause a ripple effect for a Marine and their future. To learn more about the DoD’s Sexual Assault Prevention Response Office and the Men’s Sexual Assault outreach campaign, visit https://sapr.mil/mens-SAPR-campaign.
Read More
The Super Star Student Program is Back for the 2022-2023 School Year
Read More
The History of Red Ribbon Week
In remembrance of DEA Agent Camarena, Red Ribbon Week brings awareness to intolerance for drugs in schools, workplaces, and communities. Show your commitment to a healthy, drug-free life by wearing a Red Ribbon during the last week of October.
Read More
Mentorship Opportunities
Great resources are available to assist transitioning Marines and their family members connect to education resources, employment opportunities, and other Veterans services that aid in their career and life goals outside of military service.
Read More
Your Vote Counts
Voting in any type of election from the local school board to presidential primaries, provides an avenue to voice your opinions regarding elected leaders and overall policies.
Read More
The Power Of Positive Reinforcement With Children
Read More
EFMP & Me Online Tool
Read More
Zero to 100 Podcast Focuses on Suicide Prevention
Read More
October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month
October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, which highlights the importance of mental well-being
Read More
Call of Duty C.O.D.E. Bowl Set for December 16
Read More
Tips for Staying Centered in Recovery
Recovery involves a daily commitment to making healthy choices. Follow these four tips to assist you in staying centered during your recovery.
Read More
The Emotional Cycle of Deployment
Assistance in navigating the emotional cycle of deployment brought to you buy Readiness and Support Training.
Read More
Use Your Creative Side to Strengthen Your Coping Skills
Whether making art alone, with your family, in the community, or with an art therapist, creative coping can help you “draw” your way to better health and family readiness.
Read More
Five Health Care Checkups for Your Child Before School Starts
TRICARE covers many preventative health services with no out-of-pocket costs for families. Follow this checklist for your child’s back-to-school health care needs.
Read More
Tutoring Resources For Your Student
Enable your student to have a successful year by. sharing these resources. For more tutoring options in your local area, contact your School Liaison.
Read More
M4L Network Success Story: Las Vegas Rep Helps Marines Gain Employment with Local FedEx Contractor
Leaving the military can be very stressful and can create have a sense of uncertainty for the your future. Many Marines start at ground zero in the employment process by seeking a new job. An employment search can become very time-consuming, but in the cases of a handful of Marines seeking employment at FedEx, they were hired within weeks.
Read More
Military Sexual Trauma
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) uses military sexual trauma (MST) as an encompassing term to refer to sexual assault or sexual harassment experienced during military service. Fortunately, service members can recover from experiences of trauma and VA services are among the many resources available.
Read More
Connect to Protect: Support is Within Reach
As part of the year-round commitment to preventing suicide among Marines, families, and the civilian workforce, the Marine Corps observes Suicide Prevention Month each September. The year-long theme for suicide prevention, Connect to Protect: Support is Within Reach, highlights the importance of connecting fellow Marines and leaders to increase help-seeking behaviors.
Read More
Stay Connected and Informed on Your Child's Education
A new school year is about to begin, and you might be wondering how to stay up-to-date on the latest information from the school. Stay connected with your child(ren)’s education and school by following their social media channels, volunteering at the school, or signing your kid(s) up for extracurricular activities.
Read More
Tattoos: Your Canvas, Your Training.
For some, getting a tattoo is considered a right of passage built within the military culture, but did you know that getting inked could affect your body’s hydration status?
Read More
Recovery: Deloading
Read More
Building a Strong Special Education Team for Your Child
Building a Strong Special Education Team for Your Child
Read More
The Number You Need to Know - 988
Dial 988 from any phone and reach the Military/Veterans Crisis Line.
Read More
How to Grow Your Network on LinkedIn
Growing a LinkedIn network can be beneficial in many ways. With a large network of quality connections, you can easily seek advice, request informational interviews, explore different career pathways, and even receive introductions to helpful resources.
Read More
Is Drinking Draining Your Wallet?
Drinking alcohol regularly can be costly. Did you know that Americans making low-risk choices spend an average of $583 a year or less on alcohol? How does your spending compare to the average?
Read More
Military Onesource
Along with resources provided at the duty station, such as counselors, chaplains, and other care providers, Military OneSource is a valuable support tool for Service members and their families.
Read More
Ricky and Villiana Jean-Francois - Suicide Prevention
10 Year NFL Veteran Ricky Jean-Francois joined forces with his sister, MAJ Villiana Jean-Francois to shed light on suicide awareness and connectedness. Remember to Be There for yourself, Be There for one another…Be There Marine!
Read More
CBD & Delta-8
Read More
Health, Wellness, and Performance
Health, Wellness, and Performance is a conceptual framework used to align resources to optimize warfighting readiness, lethality, and resilience of the Marine Corps, while supporting family and community well-being. This framework focuses on the four domains of fitness: Social, Physical, Mental, and Spiritual.
Read More
Sergeant Major Troy E. Black - Facing Life's Challenges
For more resources and information regarding suicide prevention, please visit usmc-mccs.org/protect
Read More
Dangers of Limited Sleep
Many factors could be causing damage to your sleep. Luckily, there are things you can do about it to turn those bad habits into good ones.
Read More
Ways to Budget For Your Family Vacation
Read More
Strategies to Improve Sleep
Helpful strategies to develop healthy sleeping habits. Sleep is imperative to military performance, including boosting physical performance and cognitive processing.
Read More
Do a Check-Up on Your Finances
Financial wellness is a state of being in which you can meet current and future financial obligations. Enjoying life is easier when you have a solid financial plan in place.
Read More
John Cena: Connectedness
Professional wrestler and entertainer John Cena with a message regarding connectedness and comradery.
Read More
MAPIT? UMAPIT? MAP WHAT?
Improve your ability to manage challenging situations and address behavioral issues before they become unmanageable.
Read More
Build Your Spiritual Fitness by Exploring the Great Outdoors
Mindfully spending time in nature has been shown to strengthen spiritual fitness, help fight depression, lower anxiety, and boost your immune system and overall well-being.
Read More
OSCAR Teams Provide Peer-to-Peer support for Managing Stress
Even the most motivated and well-trained Marines can find themselves challenged by stress. From everyday life to mission-driven deployments and combat. Stress in the Marine Corps world is inevitable.
Read More
Your MCCS Resiliency Checklist
Military life is stressful and can present many different challenges. Build your resiliency with MCCS programs and services.
Read More
Learning to Adjust to Change
Marine Corps Community Services offers free skill9building resources to Marines and their families in a variety of areas. For information on additional offerings available, contact your installation's Information, Relocation & Referral (IR&R;) line.
Read More
Father's Day Fun
Father’s Day is that special Sunday in June where kids can show dad how much they love him. Looking for fun and simple Father’s Day activities that will help you bond. Check out these fun father-kid activities for young children and dads with all different interests.
Read More
Alcohol and Energy Drinks Don't Mix
Alcohol and Energy Drinks Don't Mix Infographic
Read More
Sport for Science - Hydration
Sport for Science - Hydration Infographic
Read More
Nine Reasons to Attend a PCS Workshop
Nine Reasons to Attend a PCS Workshop Infographic
Read More
Are You Moving with Pets This Summer?
Are You Moving with Pets This Summer?
Read More
Read Beyond the Beaten Path
This summer, we encourage readers of all ages to Read Beyond the Beaten Path. Join us for “Summer Camp at the Library”, listen to adventure stories, explore the outdoors, learn some survival skills, make some nature crafts and you may see some special animal and reptile visitors.
Read More
Protect Yourself: Signs of Digital Abuse in Dating Relationships
Dating should be fun and exciting, but more importantly, dating should be safe and involve mutual respect. According to a 2013 survey by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 10% of high school students report they have been victimized by their dating partner. Physical and sexual abuse are the most common forms of dating violence; however, digital abuse is also recognized as a form of dating violence.
Read More
School Ready Checklist
School Ready Checklist Infographic
Read More
How to Talk to Your Teen About Suicide
How should parents react if their teens are expressing suicidal thoughts or feelings? Talking about suicide can be scary for all involved
Read More
Whole-Hearted Hand-offs Make PCS Better for EFMP Families
The Exceptional Family Member Program team is a great resource and support for families with PCS orders. One of the primary responsibilities of EFMP is to help families think through, plan, and access specific resources that will help to make the Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move less challenging.
Read More
Early Childhood Skill Building Resources
The Early Learning Matters (ELM) Readiness Starts Early handouts are shared with parents as part of the ELM family engagement resources. These handouts provide a set of parenting tips that families can use to reinforce and extend their child’s learning.
Read More
Keep Calm and Carry on Safely
Keep Calm and Carry on Safely Infographic
Read More
DoD launches Courage Fuels Change Campaign
The DoD Sexual Assault Prevention Response Office (SAPRO) is launching an outreach campaign with a series of videos and print materials focused on the experience of men.
Read More
EFMP Continuation on Location (CoL)
EFMP Continuation on Location (CoL) Infographic
Read More
Back in the Swim of Things
If your break from swimming was long, take it slow and rebuild. Remember, that mile may take longer than when you left off. When you are ready to start breaking your records, your local pool professionals are ready to help.
Read More
Quick Guide for Deployment Readiness
Preparation for a potential deployment should begin well before deployment orders are actually received. Early preparation can reduce the stress everyone feels in the weeks leading up to the service member’s departure.
Read More
L.I.N.K.S.- Lifestyle, Insight, Networks, Knowledge, and Skills
: L.I.N.K.S. is an interactive acculturation program to Marine Corps life. Learn about Marine Corps history and ranks, local installation resources, services, benefits, military pay, separations and deployments, communication styles, investing in the community, and Marine Corps traditions and etiquette.
Read More
Just the Facts - Continuation Pay
Just the Facts Continuation Pay USAA-EF Marines Infographic
Read More
Personal and Professional Learning Opportunities for the Marine Corps Community
Take your personal and professional learning to the next level. Take advantage of free counseling by professionals and advisors through free workshops and training opportunities, which can include testing for college credit and pre-admission.
Read More
Financial Tips for a Smooth PCS
It’s that time again. New orders and a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). But, do you know how to be financially prepared for your upcoming PCS? Try these simple tips to make your PCS easier.
Read More
PCSing with Kids: The Basics
Spring time is here, and with that, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) season begins. While moving can be an exciting time, it can also be stressful for adults and children alike. Use the tips below in preparing for your move.
Read More
Build Your Kid’s Mental Strength
Some people are able to quickly bounce back from personal setbacks or failures, while others struggle and find it much more difficult? Just like physical strength can be increased through lifting weights and physical training, you can increase your mental strength by practicing specific mental techniques.
Read More
Change the Way You Argue
Conflict is a normal and healthy part of every relationship. Well-managed conflict can promote growth, intimacy, and trust in a relationship. Resources and services are available to help get your relationship back on track.
Read More
The Power of Change
If you have a friend or family member who needs your support in changing a habit or behavior, try one of the following strategies for discussing the situation.
Read More
Say “Thank You” to Your Child Care Provider Today
Child Care Provider Appreciation Day is celebrated nationally every year on the Friday before Mother's Day. Friday, May 6th, 2022, will be the day to recognize childcare providers' efforts and dedication to providing quality care. By recognizing these dedicated professionals, we are reminded of the importance of their work and the positive impact high-quality child care has on children throughout their entire lives.
Read More
The Lowdown on Marijuana, CBD, & Delta-8
Marijuana is the most commonly detected illicit drug found in Marine Corps urinalyses. Under federal law, marijuana is a Schedule 1 drug that has greater than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Marijuana, cannabidiol (CBD), and Delta-8 are all found in the cannabis plant.
Read More
Are you Ready to PCS?
Did you know that it is mandatory for Service Members to attend a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) workshop, per MCO 1754.10B? PCS workshops are offered at every installation by the Information, Referral and Relocation (IR&R;) program. Spouses are highly encouraged to attend with their Marine.
Read More
MCCS Volunteers Make a Difference
The Marine Corps is gearing up for National Volunteer Month. During April, units throughout the Marine Corps will host volunteer opportunities and recognition events in their local communities.
Read More
Marine Corps seeking nominations of Coaches for the 2022 Men’s Rugby and Basketball Teams
The Marine Corps is seeking applications from Marines interested in coaching the 2022 All Marine Men’s Rugby Team and the 2022 All Marine Men’s Basketball Team. Applications are being accepted for coaches.
Read More
Want to be an All Marine Sports Athlete?
The Marine Corps seeking applications from Marines interested in participating in the 2022 the following sports men’s softball, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s rugby, men’s basketball, men’s and women’s running, and women’s soccer.
Read More
Exploring Child Care Options – What does a high quality program for infants look like?
Finding the right childcare program for your baby can be a difficult task, but knowing what to look for can help you make the right choice.
Read More
ROTH IRAs for Kids?
Roth IRAs are not typically considered a savings vehicle for kids, but they can be. They are ideal for kids because children have decades for their contributions to grow tax-free. And these accounts offer flexibility, too: Contributions to a Roth IRA can be withdrawn tax and penalty free at any time.
Read More
Military Children: Blooming Where Planted
Recognition of Month of the Military Child 2022
Read More
Alcohol & the Body
April is alcohol awareness month. It’s the perfect time to learn the facts about drinking alcohol and think about your choices.
Read More
April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month
April is nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM). SAAPM is an annual campaign to raise public awareness about sexual assault and educate communities on how to prevent sexual assault.
Read More
Department of Defense and Marine Corps Observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month
April is nationally recognized Child Abuse Prevention Month (CAPM). The theme for this year is “All In to End Child Abuse;” keeping our children safe is the responsibility of the entire military community.
Read More
Restricted vs. Unrestricted Reports – Know Your Options
When a victim of sexual assault decides to report, it's important to understand the options available. Knowing the difference between restricted and unrestricted reporting will help you avoid issues down the road. Let's take a closer look.
Read More
Tips to Manage the Daylight Savings Time Change
: It is almost time to spring forward and begin daylight savings time. For some, this will be quite the adjustment. Sleep, meals, and daily routines will be thrown off schedule, but there are ways to prepare kids and yourself for the dreaded time change.
Read More
Identifying Your Conflict Resolution Style
It is important to recognize and understand your conflict resolution style and the style of those around you.
Read More
Marine Corps COOL preps Marines for Post-Transition Career Success via Earning Credentials
Tom Eggerling, Sergeant Major, CD & I / MCCDC, who after serving more than 30 years has utilized U.S. Marine Corps Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL) to make his transition to civilian workforce smoother
Read More
How 24/7 Support Lines Make A Difference
Victims of military sexual assault are never alone – no matter when or where assistance is needed. Marines and their families have immediate access to resources and referrals by calling their installation’s 24/7 Sexual Assault Support Line.
Read More
Healthy Boundaries and Communications Strengthen a Relationship
Know, communicate, and respect boundaries to build and maintain a healthy, mutually beneficial relationship with your partner is especially important in sexual relationships.
Read More
Exactly What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is a crime that is not unique to any gender, race, or age. DOD defines sexual assault as "intentional sexual contact, characterized by the use of force, threats, intimidation, or abuse of authority or when the victim does not or cannot consent."
Read More
Supporting a Peer After Sexual Assault
It's a difficult situation. Your friend calls and tells you the unthinkable. He/she has been sexually assaulted. Your mind races as you try to process the news. You want to be supportive, but you don't really know what to do. Consider these "Dos" and "Don'ts" when offering support to a victim.
Read More
"Dripping" –A New Version of Vaping Among Teenagers
New ways to use tobacco are found just as quickly as new products hit the market; so if you haven’t heard of “Dripping,” you’re not alone.
Read More
An Easy Piece of the Connection Puzzle: Volunteering
Volunteering helps create connections and is a great way to build a stronger community. Volunteers report feeling less stressed and having a more positive view of themselves and those around them.
Read More
Operation Supplement Safety: What's the Harm with SARMs?
Short for selective androgen receptor modulators, SARMs are synthetic drugs designed to have effects similar to those of testosterone. SARMs are still in the research and testing stages for various medical conditions but have not been approved yet for any other use. Despite that, SARMs are readily available online and often marketed to bodybuilders as “legal steroids” or “steroid alternatives” or for “research only.”
Read More
PCS, Networking, and L.I.N.K.S.
In spite of COVID-19 and the movement restrictions that have been put in place, PCS season will soon be kicking into high gear. Families will be settling into new environments, and getting re-acclimated to places that have changed after time away.
Read More
Physical Education at Home
Summer is usually the time for outdoor experiences shared with friends. With the closure of schools and businesses, many families have had to adjust their routines. Since children have limited options, it may be tempting to fill the time with sedentary, indoor hobbies. With teleworking and homeschooling becoming the new normal, parents may find it difficult to develop creative ways to meet the physical needs of their children.
Read More
Mission Mini Marine Complete
The Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Baby Expo wrapped up on Saturday, September 7, with hundreds of families attending across the five installations that participated. In particular, Camp Pendleton saw a splendid turnout, with more than 500 people in attendance.
Read More
Cancer Prevention and Detection
More than 500,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed each year. That is equivalent to approximately one new case per minute. The World Health Organization estimates that, with proper self-care, 30-50 percent of cases could have been prevented.
Read More
Beware of COVID-19 Financial Scams
Recently, police, FBI, Interpol, customs, and health regulatory authorities from 90 countries joined forces to stop illicit online sales of medicines and medical products like face masks. They found approximately 2,000 online links advertising items related to COVID-19 and seized over 34,000 masks. The FBI also warns that children who are home from school and spending more time online may be at an increased risk for exploitation.
Read More
Communicating with your Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are many ways that the adults in a child’s life can help alleviate fear and worry regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Below are some quick tips from the CDC for helping to guide parents and other caregivers in discussions with their children during this confusing time.
Read More
Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Green Invites Marines to Own It!
In a brief video message to Marines, Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps, Ronald Green, kicked off the Own It! campaign saying, “we are all responsible for our own actions but, protecting the honor of the Marine Corps is a family business, and we all play a role."
Read More
Are You Prepared for Hurricane Season?
According to the National Hurricane Center, peak season for hurricanes runs from mid-August to late October. Being prepared requires more than having a flashlight, canned goods, and potable water on hand. Preparedness also means having a proper plan in place. A comprehensive plan starts before disaster hits. Make sure your Emergency Plan is current, insurance coverage is adequate, proper documentation is secure, and you’ve got an emergency kit and an exit strategy in the event of an evacuation.
Read More
MCAS Miramar SMP Days of Service at the USS Midway Museum
During the Single Marine Program (SMP) Days of Service this week, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar is volunteering with the USS Midway Museum to help restore some high-traffic areas that need a little extra attention. The museum, a premiere San Diego site and tourist attraction, is the historical USS Midway aircraft carrier housing actual naval aircraft in the city’s downtown area.
Read More
Marine Corps School Liaison Program Sheds Light on New Legislation for Military Children
With thousands of Marine Corps children transitioning all over the globe at different times of the year, many states have been working to develop systems of support to ease transitions for military youth through policy action at the state level.
Read More
Let's Talk About Sex
It’s time we talk about the sexual heath of Marines. Why is this important? Let’s take a look at the 2018 data from the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center to find out more:
Read More
Single Marine Program Days of Service 2019
Now in its fourth year, the Single Marine Program (SMP) Days of Service week runs from April 22 until April 28, 2019.
Read More
PCS Transition Support for EFMP Families
Your installation’s Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) team is a great resource and support for families with an EFMP dependent(s) who are also dealing with Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. One of the primary responsibilities of EFMP is to help families think through, plan, and access specific resources that will help to make the PCS move less challenging.
Read More
PFM Present & Future Outlook during Covid-19
As the public health crisis posed by COVID-19 continues, all branches of the military services across the globe are experiencing significant financial shock.
Read More
Military Spouse Appreciation Day
The life of a military family is one of unique challenges and sacrifice coupled with opportunity and experience that most people cannot imagine. There is no one who understands the requirements of this life more than a Marine Corps spouse. From a short notice PCS to extended deployments, Marine Corps spouses take on military life with grace and resiliency. Their selfless contributions provide a stability that enables mission and family readiness and dramatically increases the quality of life of Marines.
Read More
MCAS Cherry Point SMP Point Days of Service Supports Veterans Organic Garden
Ever since the inaugural Single Marine Program (SMP) Day of Service began in 2015, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point has taken pride in supporting this observance through volunteerism each year. Now a weeklong event, the Cherry Point SMP has scheduled more than 40 volunteer service projects during the 2019 SMP Days of Service, from April 22 to 28.
Read More
Military Post Offices Adopt New USPS Customs Form Process for International Mail
Beginning Friday, March 13, 2020, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will require customers sending packages to international addresses to create customs labels online before bringing their packages to a post office to mail. Customers may use online solutions by USPS or any third-party provider capable of creating online customs forms. Military Post Offices will adopt the new USPS requirements for standard international addresses immediately, while packages bound for APO/FPO/DPO addresses will transition beginning on August 13, 2020.
Read More
What's in Your Supplements?
If a dietary supplement is sold in stores, it must be safe, right? Wrong. When it comes to dietary supplements like weight loss products, performance enhancers, or muscle-builders, manufacturers don’t have to prove they’re safe before selling them.
Read More
Cover Letter Controversy
Cover letters are tough. You’ve just spent what felt like an eternity creating a targeted resume (after making a master resume, and probably also a LinkedIn profile). You’re tired. You feel like you’ve already said everything an employer might want to know. And now, when you’re tapped out, you have to write a cover letter too? What is there left to say?
Read More
PCS for Success: Nine Reasons to Attend a PCS Workshop
Moving can be stressful, but there is help available. Marines are required to attend the Permanent Change of Station (PCS) workshop, where they will meet with a subject matter experts who will provide resources to help during the PCS process. Spouses are highly encouraged to attend as well.
Read More
Understanding Portfolio Declines During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 outbreak has erased 23 million jobs created since the 2007-2009 recession, and the 30 million mark is approaching. The financial storm fed by unprecedented negative economic activity created intense volatility among both the stock and bond markets. Navigating your portfolio during these challenging times can be very difficult. Your installation’s Personal Financial Management office can provide resources to help you understand historical trends in managing your finances during an economic downturn, recession, or even depression.
Read More
The Marine Corps Order on Parenthood and Pregnancy Just Got a Revamp
The Marine Corps Parenthood and Pregnancy policy has been updated, as announced this week in MARADMIN 248/20. The new Marine Corps Order, MCO 5000.12F, is split into two chapters: parenthood and pregnancy. The order provides updated policy information about Marines becoming parents, whether through birth, adoption, foster care, or surrogate pregnancy services, and it addresses command and individual roles and responsibilities, administrative requirements, and more of expecting parents. Specific guidance is included for single, dual-military, and adoptive parents.
Read More
Tips for Transitioning from Marine to Civilian
National Retirement Security Week 2019 runs from October 20-26 and aims to emphasize the benefits of preparing and saving for retirement, and especially taking advantage of employer-sponsored plans and offers for a secure retirement plan. Retirement planning should play a role throughout your career, in addition to preparing for transition out of the Marine Corps. To help you get prepared, former Marine Christian Reyes shares his transition success story, with tips to help fellow Marines planning for life outside of the Corps, so you can focus on developing that secure retirement plan.
Read More
Start Your Cover Letter with this 10 Minute Activity
If you’re having trouble getting your cover letter started, try this activity. You’ will need three sticky notes, something to write with, the job announcement or description for which you are writing this cover letter, and your resume (preferably your targeted resume). Don’t worry—you can do this without your resume, but it’s a whole lot easier with one.
Read More
Build Your Problem-Solving Skills with MCFTB
Family Readiness Services provides ways for Marines, Sailors, and their Families to build valuable problem-solving skills and find helping resources. Problem-solving skills are an essential aspect of workshops led by Marine Corps Family Team Building
Read More
Black History Month 2020
Throughout February, communities will take the opportunity to honor the history and ongoing contributions of Black Americans to the success and development of the United States. In the Marine Corps, the 2020 observance theme is “Honoring The Past, Securing The Future.” Here is some interesting history about African Americans in the Marine Corps.
Read More
Smucker's Hosts "Mission: Breakfast" at Quantico
Last week, Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico rang in Military Appreciation Month with the 10th annual Smucker’s Mission: Breakfast event. Each year, Smucker’s hosts a friendly competition among military installation commissaries for the best in-store display of Smucker’s products. MCB Quantico won the 2019 grand prize for building the most creative display.
Read More
Exchanges, commissaries brainstorm ideas for more joint sales events
Exchange and commissary shoppers will see more opportunities to save on the installation as military resale officials continue planning more joint sales.
Read More
Happy 25th Anniversary to the Single Marine Program!
Congratulations to the Single Marine Program (SMP) for 25 years of service to the Marine Corps and installations’ surrounding communities. As mentioned in MARADMIN 036/20, the SMP began in 1995 to provide a forum for Marines to express quality of life issues and recommend solutions to their commands.
Read More
Prepare for Life Post-Quarantine
As we begin to emerge from months of quarantine, things won’t snap back to normal overnight. It is important to remain vigilant until health officials give the all clear, and that might not happen for many more months. You will need to decide how to proceed, and everyone will be learning together how to navigate unfamiliar territory.
Read More
HITT 2019 Championship Winners Announced
This year's High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Championship event has concluded, and the champions have earned their titles! The championship took place from September 9 through 12, 2019, on MCB Quantico. These were four long, hard days for the participating warrior athletes.
Read More
Respond to Online Suicide Warning Signals
As you scroll through your Facebook feed, you come across a post from an old high school friend indicating that he’s struggling with his recent job loss and separation from his wife, and that he’s having trouble paying the bills. He says he feels like it’s all just too much to bear, and he doesn’t see a way out. The content of his post concerns you—but you’re unsure of how to help or what you should do.
Read More
Financial Readiness is Mission Critical
Congress, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Marine Corps consider the financial readiness of Marines to be mission critical. You should too! A Marine who must focus a significant amount of attention on addressing personal finance concerns has that much less attention to focus on other areas of life, including being a good Marine.
Read More
Figuring out Schooling during a PCS
While many children are excited to enjoy a break from school, summertime can bring any number of significant changes for military kids, especially if they are moving to a new location.
Read More
Are You Ready to PCS?
Did you know that a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) workshop is offered at every installation by the Information, Referral and Relocation (I&R;) specialist? Help yourself manage the stress by getting ahead and learning about the resources in order to have a smooth move. Attendance is mandatory per MCO 1754.10A, and spouses are highly encouraged to attend with their Marine as well.
Read More
Stay Fit in Quarantine
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a physical impact, even on individuals who have not contracted the virus by causing most people to change their daily routines. Part of many people’s routine is scheduled time for physical fitness. Still, with the closure of gyms, recreational centers, and even some parks, everyone has had to make some adaptations and changes. May is Physical Fitness and Health month, which is a good time to find a new routine in this new environment. Below are some activities to add to your physical fitness routine to stay active while staying safe.
Read More
#CORONAVIRUS Update: Catch Up on the Commandant's Reading List
During these times of uncertainty, it is important to remain flexible and to recognize opportunity when it becomes available. There are many educational websites offering free or discounted online educational tools and programs that you can take advantage of while children are home from school. Do not forget to reach out to your local School Liaison Program office for more resources.
Read More
Investing in Uncertain Times
The S&P; 500 had a rough start to the year 2020. It climbed a little, dropped a little, climbed a little again, then started falling – and kept falling – until, in the third week of March, it was down 34 percent from its high.
Read More
Fiber is Our Friend
If you are like most Americans, you consume less than 15 grams of fiber per day. Many experts recommend 25-35 grams of fiber per day. What’s the big deal with not getting enough fiber every day?
Read More
The New Tobacco 21 Law
You aren't the only one making New Year's Resolutions this year. Last month, December 2019, legislation was signed to raise the federal minimum age of the sale of tobacco products in the U.S. from 18 to 21 years old. This means it is now illegal for a retailer to sell any tobacco product - including vape devices, e-liquid cartridges, dip, cigarettes and cigars - to anyone under 21.
Read More
TRANSITION ALERT: Big Changes for TRS
The Transition Readiness Seminar (TRS) is a week-long program required by Title 10 for all active duty and reserve Marines who have served a minimum of 180 consecutive days on active duty. Marines are encouraged to begin TRS within 18-12-months of their EAS or within 24 months of their retirement, but no later than 180 days from EAS or Retirement (per MARADMIN 632/19 and MCO 1700.31).
Read More
Understanding Declining TSP Values
Financial health and drastic economic effects have presented concerns throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Savings interest rate and retirement investment accounts alike have taken losses. When analyzing your Thrift Savings Program (TSP) account balance, these four tips can help you contextualize and understand some of these changes.
Read More
BACK 2 SCHOOL: Master This School Year Before It Even Starts!
As your kids look forward to that final waterpark excursion, last summer break road trip, saying so long to summer campmates, and those final long days of adventuring with friends, you can begin preparing them and your family for the school year ahead!
Read More
MCCS Recognizes Food and Hospitality Activities
Sixty MCCS restaurant and hospitality activities are recognized for their exceptional performance in 2018 with Food and Hospitality Excellence Awards. The Food and Hospitality Excellence Award Program was established by Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) to recognize restaurant and hospitality activities that exceed the highest level of operational excellence and service.
Read More
PTSD Awareness Month
The National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) encourages people to observe National PTSD Awareness Month each June.
Read More
Stay Combat Ready during Physical Fitness Month!
May is Physical Fitness Month! With gyms and workout facilities closed, health and nutrition are more important than ever, and your regimen doesn’t have to suffer. You can stay combat ready during Physical Fitness month with your Semper Fit team.
Read More
Expanded Access to Commissaries, Military Exchanges and Recreation Facilities
The Department of Defense is expanding commissary, military exchange, and morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) retail privileges on U.S. military installations as specified in the Purple Heart and Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act of 2018 (included in the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019).
Read More
Salad Guts
Do you like to experiment with food? Why not try some salad creations? Here’s a fun way to make a healthy choice meal, at your taste preference. Many people think of salads as just lettuce and some raw veggies. Actually, that couldn’t be farther from the truth if you just tap into your inner creativity. Try starting with some salad basics (you know, the leafy and raw veggie things, that everyone thinks of when you say the word “salad”) and then add, what I like to refer to as “the guts”.
Read More
Holiday Survival Checklist
It’s the most [insert adjective] time of the year. Are you prepared for the holiday season? You can get started with these easy tips to simplify your holiday plans, from booking travel to saving on shipping. This is just one tool in your holiday survival kit!
Read More
Recognizing Developmental Delays in Children
Each child’s journey is unique and beautiful. However, there are some red flags all parents should be attentive toward in order to determine if their child may have a developmental delay.
Read More
Safe Storage Ideas for Dangers in Your Home
A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline. Securing items in your household that could cause harm, and helping friends and family do the same, can help prevent misuse.
Read More
Start Your Job Search While Staying Inside
Are you ready to begin a job search? This might be the perfect time to focus on it, as people are still urged to follow the COVID-19 pandemic guidance and stay home. Learn how to hit the job market running and be ready to make an impact!
Read More
Stream Movies with Your MCCS Library Card
Kanopy is an ad-free on-demand video streaming platform, designed for libraries, that offers viewers a large collection of award-winning films and inspiring documentaries. You can now view up to 10 movies per month with your free patron account.
Read More
Is Remote Work an Option for Me?
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) season may look a little different this year. We’ve seen a lot of families put PCS plans on hold due to stop movement orders and quickly make alternate plans. As the time approaches for moves to begin again, one thing remains the same: military family members need to consider their employment. Will you be transferring, applying for a new position, or do you have the ability to continue remote work with your current employer. The options for some are many, especially if you have discovered remote work. Remote work as you PCS throughout your Marines’ career can result in reduced financial stress because a PCS may not affect your income. So you’re probably asking where to begin with remote work; we’ve got you covered.
Read More
We All Need Networks
“No man is an island.” English poet John Donne penned those words in 1624 to express the idea that people need to be around other people to be healthy. Prevention in Action focuses on networks this month.
Read More
SkillBridge Spotlight: Veterans in Piping
When getting out of the Marine Corps, there are many paths that a Marine can take to prepare for the next chapter of their careers. An excellent option that is becoming more accessible to Marines is an apprenticeship. To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week in November, here is some information and testimonials from the Camp Pendleton Veteran in Piping 2018 and 2019 cohorts.
Read More
Wondering What You Can Do This Summer? Volunteer!
Summer is a time of many changes; PCS season, schools are out, and days are longer. This summer presents additional challenges with COVID-19 distancing rules and lots of familiar fun spots closed. Planning for staying occupied over the summer can seem difficult, but why not volunteer?
Read More
UPDATE: Marine Corps Spouse Professional Relicensing Reimbursement Rises to $1000
Professional licensing expenses can be a financial burden to Marine families with each permanent change of station (PCS) move. The Marine Corps aims to ease this cost and assist spouses in this transition by updating policy for reimbursement of licensure expenses resulting from a PCS move, increasing the allowable amount for reimbursement to $1,000.
Read More
PCS Travel Options for Families with Special Needs
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves are filled with planning, coordinating, and decision making! When you are travelling with a family member who has special needs, there are unique considerations to help make your travel go more smoothly. Navigating a crowded airport with lines, checkpoints, and unfamiliar sights and sounds may be overwhelming for individuals with anxiety or a sensory processing disorder. Perhaps your family member requires specific mobility or medical accommodations and you are uncertain whether an airline can or must provide these accommodations.
Read More
MCX Becomes First Military Retailer to Offer American Eagle Outfitters Apparel
Select Marine Corps Exchange stores are now offering apparel from American Eagle Outfitters - a leading global specialty retailer offering high-quality, on-trend clothing at affordable prices.
Read More
US and UK Marines Face Off at 44th Marine Corps Marathon
The U.S. and British teams competed on October 27, 2019, for the Queen’s Challenge Cup, an annual racing competition during the Marine Corps Marathon that promotes cohesion and camaraderie within our alliance.
Read More
Are you Moving with Pets This Summer?
Did you know that 67 percent of U.S. households, or about 85 million families, own a pet, according to the 2019-2020 American Pet Products Association?When you’re preparing for a PCS move, having a pet can add another layer of complexity, particularly if you’re moving overseas. You might not know that OCONUS installations have special pet requirements, and some have quarantine requirements.
Read More
PCSing with School-Aged Children
Moving is hectic. Figuring out your child's education options shouldn’t be. The average military child could attend up to nine different schools during his/her grade school years, but you can use the School Liaison Program as a resource to help make each transition easier for the whole family.
Read More
Navigate Social Networks Safely
Social networks can be a positive part of modern life. We can connect with family members who live far way, keep in touch with old friends, and stay up to date on news and community events. But those same social networks can become an obsession, can eat up too much of our time, make us feel inferior to online “friends,” and leave us vulnerable to scammers, thieves, and stalkers.
Read More
Volunteer Appreciation Month: Virtual Version
April is Volunteer Appreciation Month! Volunteering looks different in a world that requires physical distancing amid COVID-19 concerns. However, the need for volunteers and their positive impacts remains strong. Our communities, locally and globally, still lean on volunteers that care and are willing to go the extra mile even during these unprecedented times. So, how can you make a difference from home? Here are a few ideas to help you decide.
Read More
Men's Health Screenings
Yesterday, Americans celebrated all the fathers, and father figures, that play a unique and integral role in the lives of their families and loved ones. They are relied on for advice, piggy-back rides, wisdom, and the occasional dad joke. They remind us to brush our teeth, take our vitamins, and to take care of ourselves. June is Men’s Health Month, and our turn to remind all the men in our lives to take care of themselves by staying current with their prevention screenings.
Read More
Cover Letter Best Practices
Best Practice Number One: Always, always, always follow the directions provided by the potential employer. If they tell you not to write a cover letter, then don’t waste your time. If an employer tells you they want a specific format (including something uncommon or even a little bit wacky), then make sure you do it that way.
Read More
7 FREE Digital Library Resources for Military Kids
Contact your local MCCS Library to ask about gaining access to any of the following resources!
Read More
Housing Flexibility Gives Families More Options
In 2018, the Department of Defense rolled out new housing flexibility options for families to use during a designated covered relocation period. These options allow families to decide the best time to move for their family, based upon their unique circumstances. The covered relocation period begins 180 days before the effective date of the Marine’s Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders and ends 180 days after the PCS date.
Read More
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES)
This summary of the CARES Act does not imply expertise or original information on the part of MCCS or the Marine Corps but is provided for background with links to external resources that have more information applicable to your situation.
Read More
We're Here for You During PCS Season
Working through a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) may be a very stressful time. There is so much to do, and so much change is happening. Add to that the misfortune of PCSing during a pandemic, and you might be feeling especially overwhelmed. You may be moving very far away from friends, family, and other supports. You may be leaving the Marine Corps. You may have lost a beloved family member or friend to COVID-19.
Read More
Read, Dream, and Share for Children's Book Week
Children’s Book Week (CBW), the longest-running national literacy celebration commemorates 101 years of books for children and teens.
Read More
Boost your Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic
There is no denying the far-reaching impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its effects are being felt across the country and world. Beyond the obvious medical impacts, additional impacts are social isolation, financial hardship, and relational pressures. Not one of us is exempt. Military families are especially vulnerable because you deal with stressors unique to the Military community, specifically the expectation to remain vigilant and ever-prepared for battle, and the frequent moves that are required for national defense.
Read More
Mental Health Month Quarantine Edition
May is Mental Health Month, and while dealing with the effects of COVID-19, preserving and improving our health should be a priority. Following are a few activities you can use to take a break from your day to day routine, reflect, and relax.
Read More
Healthy at Home
The uncertainty of our world at the moment can be overwhelming and chaotic. Whether you’re in the barracks with your peers or at home with your family, these feelings make it harder to eat well and stay healthy. If you find yourself reaching for the Cheetos more often than not, try some of these tips to give yourself a boost.
Read More
Happy Mother's Day in Quarantine!
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in our lives!
Read More
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Information & Referral is Here for You
Information and Referral (I&R;) provides accurate, timely resources and can help reduce the stress of information overload. Your installation Marine and Family I&R; specialists are ready to provide one on one consultations with you so that you can get the relocation information that you need.
Read More
4th Annual Sexual Assault Awareness Prevention Month Poster Contest
The Department of Defense has kicked off its 15th annual observance of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM) with the ongoing theme, "Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission."
Read More
Month of the Military Child 2020
April is the Month of the Military Child and a time to celebrate and recognize our military-connected children around the world.
Read More
Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month Observances Continue Through COVID-19 Restrictions
April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Though installation, local, and state restrictions are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19, you can still participate in raising awareness. MARADMIN 133/20 announces that the Department of Defense and the Marine Corps will observe the awareness month with the ongoing theme of “Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission.”
Read More
TSA and the Holidays
Traveling can be stressful, but the extra crowds at the airport and gifts in your luggage don’t have to weigh you down. Check out these tips to breeze through TSA with no problems.
Read More
MCCS Services during Coronavirus Outbreak
The emotional and mental well-being of Marines and their families continues to be priority for MCCS. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, MCCS has modified many operating procedures to meet current and emergent needs. Always check with your installation command for additional details on what is available at your location. For more general and MCCS resources related to coronavirus, visit USMC-MCCS.ORG/CORONAVIRUS.
Read More
How to Keep Your Smartphone Connected Through PCS
Just because it’s not peak season for PCS moves does not mean that moving later in the year comes with any less stress. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holidays and packing boxes, something is bound to be left behind – don’t let it be your smartphone. Here are three tips to make sure your mobile device stays connected throughout your move.
Read More
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Operation Supplement Safety
Like any person or company, dietary supplement manufacturers can take advantage of challenging circumstances.
Read More
Using the Marine for Life Network for Transition Success: Testimonial
After 12 months of Inspector & Instructor (I&I;) duty as the 1stSgt, Colin Boyd and his wife made the joint decision to retire from the Marine Corps. Colin had a long-time connection with Marine for Life (M4L) Representative Major Jason Kemp, who was his company commander in India Co V32. Even at a distance of 450 miles, the two maintained their friendship. Upon Colin’s decision to retire, Major Kemp introduced him to his local Ohio M4L Rep, Major Dave Crookham.
Read More
Give a Cheer! The New School Year is Here!
As summer draws to a close, it’s time to get ready for the new school year that’s about to begin. Below are some tips on how to make it a smooth transition for parents and kids.
Read More
Happy Holidays, Marine! Make Sure Your Gifts Arrive on Time
The holiday season is here, which means it’s time to start thinking about sending gifts to your loved ones who may be stationed away from home or overseas. For those who haven’t purchased gifts yet, the Marine Corps Exchange (MCX) has some great deals on items to fit every taste and budget.
Read More
Navigating PCS Season – You've Got People for That
Military members and their families move on average every three years. Services are required by law to provide relocations support and services at all installations, to increase resilience and retention, and to help make moving less stressful. The following are designed to ease the transition to a new duty station.
Read More
Rebooting Strategies
When our computer locks up, the simplest solution is to reboot. When we find ourselves stuck in some way, it can be harder to troubleshoot the issue. Here are some rebooting strategies:
Read More
The Easy Way to Save
TSP offers “Target Date Funds” in the form of the TSP Lifecycle (L) Funds. A target date fund contains a diversified mix of investments, so it is an easy way to help make sure you are on a good path for retirement.
Read More
Keep Kids Sharp with the MCCS Libraries Summer Reading Program
Throughout the summer months, installation libraries will host a range of free activities, programs, and the opportunity to read for prizes for school age children to encourage and support a love of reading.
Read More
President's 2020 Tax Deferral – Update
For those opting into the White House’s employee-side payroll tax deferral, the repayment deadline has been extended from April 2021 to December 31, 2021, lengthening the repayment period for those taxpayers. This means less money comes out of each paycheck until all deferred taxes are paid back.
Read More
Do You Have ADHD? The EFMP is Here to Help!
Do you sometimes feel like you are “driving in the rain with faulty windshield wipers, moments of clarity along with lots of blur?” Or “like your attention span is being controlled by every single garage door opener within 100 miles?” If so, you’re not alone. These are just a few ways people have described living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Read More
Eight Ways to Spring Clean Your Career in 2018
Dust off those cobwebs and do some spring cleaning for your career!
Read More
Celebrating National Celiac Awareness Day
September 13th is National Celiac Disease Awareness Day, meant to raise awareness for a condition much more common than you thought. Did you know that 1 in 100 people are affected by Celiac Disease worldwide? And becoming aware is crucial — the Celiac Disease Foundation reports that 2.5 million Americans are undiagnosed and at risk for long-term health complications
Read More
Four Stars You May Not Know who Live with Disability
Have you ever pursued your dream job? What sort of obstacles got in your way? Did you struggle with determining when to be in the right place at the right time? Or have difficulty getting in the right schools? Now, imagine accomplishing each of those tasks with the added struggle of facing stereotypes associated with having a disability.
Read More
HQMC Semper Fit Hosts Dietary Supplements Training
On March 20, 2018, HQMC's Semper Fit Branch hosted a Dietary Supplements Training aboard MCB Quantico. All branches of service attended the training which included experts in the field from the University of Arkansas, the National Institute of Health, the Department of Justice, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other federal agencies.
Read More
How Long Are You Going to Live in Retirement?
Imagine that your retired life lasts as long as your working life. It could happen, and saving a little more now will make a big difference then.
Read More
How Networking Landed a Marine His Dream Job
The Marine For Life Network’s LinkedIn groups are a place for networking, introductions to military-friendly employers, and where Marines can discuss their transition journeys.
Read More
Parenting From a Distance: How to Help Your Kids Through Deployment
Separations from loved ones are part of the job when you are a Marine. They are hard on everyone and can be especially challenging for children. Children often do not understand where you are going, what you are doing, or when you are coming back. Staying in touch with loved ones while you are away can be reassuring for those left at home and help ease their concerns. Below are some tips to help you stay connected to your child, your young siblings, or any other children who are important to you.
Read More
We All Benefit From Playing Together: Special Olympics Young Athletes Coming to Installations
The Marine Corps Exceptional Family Member Program is excited to announce the implementation of the Special Olympics Young Athletes Program at four of our installations: Henderson Hall, Quantico, Cherry Point, and Miramar.
Read More
Agility Skills in HITT
Agility is one of the primary movement components in HITT, and key to reducing the risks for injury. What exactly is agility though? Per the HITT Methodology Manual, Agility can be characterized by the “ability to maintain postural stability in conditions that require changes in speed and direction in response to environmental demands.” Athletes improving agility skills must develop motor skills that require combinations of strength, power, and balance.
Read More
Psychedelics for Breakfast: The Rise of Micro-dosing
Most people want to reduce anxiety, improve concentration and problem solving, and be more creative. Some people have turned to micro-dosing Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD). Yet there are a lot of reasons that taking LSD should not be the answer.
Read More
What are the Steps for Marines Who Are Interested in Applying for LSP?
Are you a Marine who has dreams of pursuing your education at a selective school? The Leadership Scholar Program was created to provide application assistance to qualified Marines as they transition from active duty to pursue their education goals at the nation’s top four year, not-for-profit colleges and universities.
Read More
What are Credentials and Why Do You Need Them, Marine?
You keep hearing about credentials. What are they, and why do they matter to you? Credentials supply documented proof of your ability to perform in a certifiable career field. They help develop a more diversely skilled workforce, broaden professional development, and validate professional knowledge and skills gained through experience, technical education and training.
Read More
Not a Marine Corps Ball Tradition
Driving under the influence of alcohol puts everyone at risk: you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 29 people, every day, in the United States die in motor vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. This is one death every 50 minutes.
Read More
Supporting a Friend after Sexual Assault
You may have a friend, loved one, or family member who was sexually assaulted. They may be struggling to get through this tragic event and reach out to you for help. Consider these "Do’s" and "Don'ts" when offering support.
Read More
Get Ready for 2018: Preparing Your Voting Absentee Ballot
As Marines, one of the most important rights you fight to defend is the right to vote. Recent elections have been decided by a margin of victory of less than 0.1%, so every vote truly does matter.
Read More
Curious About Resources During a Government Shutdown?
In the event of a government shutdown many services will be affected, but there are a few that remain available to you
Read More
Who is Eligible for SAPR Services? How Can I Help Ensure They Seek Aid?
The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program is committed to ensuring anyone who has experienced a sexual assault can receive help. As such, the SAPR program aims to provide materials that ensures everyone is included in efforts. How can Marines help support this goal?
Read More
How to Party Safely
One night at a nightclub, a former student at a public university in Kentucky realized that a drug had been slipped into her mixed drink. After having a couple sips, she began to have horrible side effects: “It was as if I was having a stroke,” she recalled.
Read More
What's with all these Military Experience Translators?
Military to Federal Jobs Crosswalk
Read More
Healthy Living: Ask the Experts
Have you ever felt lost on how to start a healthy lifestyle? Have you ever wanted to know what you should be eating, or how to exercise properly to meet your individual health goals? Well, Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) invites you to “Ask the Experts on Healthy Living.”
Read More
Having Trouble with Stress? Talk to an OSCAR Member
Marines report five reasons for not seeking help for stress:
Read More
DoDEA Online Registration for Students Debuts: Beaufort, Iwakuni, Okinawa, Lejeune, and Quantico
Most military children are not allowed to pre-enroll for school; consequently, many course offerings are full by the time military students can apply. When children of military families move as a result of their parents’ service, they are often disadvantaged due to missed deadlines for course and program enrollment and/or registration, which commonly occur in the spring.
Read More
Helping Your Smoker Quit: Dos and Don'ts
Quitting smoking isn’t easy. Being close to someone who is trying to quit can also be difficult – what do you say, what can you to help, and moreover, what shouldn’t you do? If your friend or loved one is trying to quit, check out these dos and don’ts from the American Cancer Society on how to help without being harmful.
Read More
Kids Heading Back to School? Get in the Know with the School Liaison Program
Here’s a statement you have heard before: PCS is an incredibly stressful time. In addition to the sheer stress of packing up and moving, Marine parents and children alike have to completely relearn the ins and outs of a new location. The School Liaison Program can help relieve a little of that stress.
Read More
Veterati, the Mentor Program made by Marines, for Marines!
To support National Mentoring Month, the Marine For Life Network hosted a Facebook Q&A; session with Veterati. Want to get involved? Here are the things you need to know about Veterati.
Read More
Happy Birthday, Marine!
The Birthday Ball is a celebration of Marine Corps’ history and traditions. It gives us a look at the Corps’ past, present and future. On 10 November Marines throughout the world celebrate the birth of their Corps — whether in the fanciest hotel in town, a base gym, a ship at sea, or in a smoldering pile of rubble in some far off place with lit matches stuck in an MRE pound cake serving as candles.
Read More
There's an App for That! Tips You and Your Kids Need for App Safety
It can be difficult to keep up with your kids and their relationships, from friendships to dating. Your child could be in a harmful or dangerous relationship, and a phone or tablet app could be enabling it. One way to stay on top of things includes talking to them about their phones. There are a lot of different ways that children and teens communicate electronically. Check out some of these apps and features you might want to keep on your radar, as well as tips to talk to your kids about their social media usage.
Read More
Vapes and Recreational Drugs: A Deadly Combination
Electronic cigarettes are on the rise in the military community — a recent study found these drugs not only are used more prevalently than previously thought, but they are also outmatching traditional cigarettes. But electronic cigarettes may not only be more dangerous than we realize, they are also banned in some cases.
Read More
Seven Ways to Give Back This Holiday Season
Now that the holiday season is upon us, our thoughts turn to good will and ways we can give back. There are lots of opportunities available, but sometimes it’s hard to figure out where to start. Check out these easy ways to do some good in your community.
Read More
Honoring Families During National Military Family Appreciation Month
November is designated as National Military Family Appreciation Month. It is when the country honors military families, acknowledging the sacrifices they make while supporting their servicemen and women.
Read More
Six Things You Can Do to Find the Perfect Career on USAJobs
Have you thought about working for the Federal Government but not sure where to start? Have no fear: the Transition Readiness team is here to get you on the path to federal employment.
Read More
Binge Drinking: What You Need to Know and How to Prevent It
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels to 0.08 or higher. This typically occurs after 4 drinks for women and 5 drinks for men—in about a 2 hour period.
Read More
TRICARE Changes are Coming – What You Need to Know to Be Prepared
The TRICARE benefit is changing to offer more choices, easier access to care, and simplified cost shares. Most changes will be effective on 1 January 2018, with full implementation by 1 January 2019.
Read More
Networking 101: Where Do You Go?
You’ve heard it time and again: networking is the key to career success. 80% of jobs are now found through networking. But where to start?
Read More
Words Make a Difference
In the United States, 1 in 4 adults (26 percent) have a disability and it’s estimated that 1 in 6 children (17 percent) have a developmental delay. This community of individuals is one of the largest minority groups in the United States and it’s important to ensure that the language we use is respectful.
Read More
Mental Health Needs of Children, Youth, and Young Adults in Military Families
USMC’s Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is collaborating with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the U.S. Department of Defense and the Defense Health Agency, to explore evidence-based strategies to address the mental health needs of children, youth, and young adults in military families.
Read More
The Transition Readiness Program – an IGMC Core Program
Effective July 31, 2017, the Transition Readiness Program (TRP) became a Critical Or Requiring Evaluation (CORE) Functional Area with the Inspector General Marine Corps (IGMC). TRP shall now be an area of focus of all command inspections. To assist Commands in implementing a successful TRP within the unit and avoid findings on future inspections, review the following valuable resources:
Read More
2020 Exceptional Sexual Assault Response Coordinators of the Year
Sexual Assault Response Coordinators oversee the immediate safety needs of those who report sexual assault, connecting them to resources and assigning a Victim Advocate to provide advocacy and assistance throughout the medical, investigative, and legal processes.
Read More
Volunteer Appreciation Week Spotlight
April 15–21 marks Volunteer Appreciation Week. Marine Corps volunteers are a special kind of volunteer; they already sacrifice a vast amount as members of the Marine Corps family, and choose to add more by giving their time and attention to others in need.
Read More
Nominate a Child for the Military Child of the Year
The deadline to nominate a military child for Operation Homefront's 2019 Military Child of the Year® (MCOY) Awards is Wednesday, December 5, 2018. This is an opportunity to recognize the year-round contributions, courage and patriotism of the military community's youngest members. It is a time to applaud military families and their children for the daily sacrifices they make and the challenges they overcome.
Read More
How Proper Stretching Can Maximize Your Workout Routine
Stretching before and after your workout may be the most underrated part of your routine. But stretching and flexibility training have a wide range of benefits, including an enhanced athletic performance, increasing muscle tone, and breaking down scar tissue. Below are the main flexibility techniques for athletes, as defined by the High Intensity Tactical Training Methodology.
Read More
Beef Up Your Resume with the Marine Corps SkillBridge Program
As Marines approach the transition to civilian life, they have a lot to consider. Not only do they have to determine what to do in their civilian careers, but also how to get on the path to that career. One of the programs that can help do that is the Marine Corps Skillbridge program.
Read More
The Value of a Marine For Life Network Representative
The heart of the Marine For Life Network are the M4L Representatives. These Reservists are passionate about assisting transitioning Marines and family members. M4L Reps are embedded in communities throughout the US and build and sustain networks of Marine-friendly employers and local resources. They wear many different hats as M4L Reps, but their ultimate goal is to connect Marines and family members to relevant resources that support their personal and professional goals after service.
Read More
Start As Soon As Possible
One of the smartest things you can do on the way to retirement is to start saving early. Starting early means your retirement savings has more time to grow through the power of compounding.
Read More
Exceptional Family Member Program Evaluation Survey Results
Last year, the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) completed a comprehensive evaluation of its program services, conducted by Headquarters Marine Corps. Some of the most important feedback collected during the evaluation came from Marines and their family members who have used EMFP services.
Read More
Marine Spouse 101: Celebrate the Little Victories
Marriage doesn’t come with an owner’s manual. All of a sudden you’re living with another person, joining in their family and maybe even taking their name, and you’re supposed to be an expert, right? Wrong.
Read More
Your Whole Story: NAGDCA National Retirement Security Week
October 21 – 27 marks this year's National Retirement Security Week. This year is especially important as many Marines now have the choice to opt-in to the new Blended Retirement System plan.
Read More
The Most Common Type of Litter in the World
Do you remember the old Smokey Bear ads? The campaign’s catch phrase was “Remember. . . Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires.” Over the years, the Forest Service has featured ads with adorable woodland animals reminding us to “Break your Matches, crush your Smokes, drown your campfires, and be careful with EVERY fire!” Over 70 years later, we must still be reminded of those basic fire prevention steps.
Read More
Marine Corps Sports Program Celebrates Black History Month
In celebration of Black History Month, here’s a quick look at just a few of the most decorated black athletes to have earned the eagle, globe, and anchor.
Read More
What is 529 Day?
Everyone knows higher education is an expensive venture. But, did you know there is special tax-advantaged accounts to help you save for college expenses? Based in section 529 of the tax code, these state-sponsored investment plans offer significant tax benefits. Many states recognize May 29 (5/29), as 529 Day, with special promotions and contests to further add value to these accounts
Read More
Ten Things You Need To Know About Mentoring and American Corporate Partners
To support National Mentoring Month, the Marine For Life Network hosted a Facebook Q&A; session with American Corporate Partners (ACP), a mentorship resource organization focused on helping transitioning service members. Check out a quick summary of what was discussed, so you can get involved today:
Read More
Nominate the SAPR Victim Advocate
Headquarters Marine Corps is pleased to announce the inaugural Exceptional SAPR VA of the Year award. This award will recognize Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Victim Advocates (VAs) who provide outstanding service to those who have experienced sexual assault and who actively support the SAPR program. Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARCs) and Commanders are encouraged to nominate a SAPR VA whose accomplishments demonstrate outstanding support of the SAPR program.
Read More
Transitioning Soon? What You Can Do About Credentialing
I have some time left before I leave the Marine Corps. What should I do about credentialing? Are you in this situation? You’ve heard that civilian credentialing can help make your transition smoother, but you haven’t pursued any credentialing yet.
Read More
Getting Left of Transition
Sgt Tyler Haas transitioned out of the Marine Corps in May, 2018. While preparing for his transition, Sgt Haas sat down with Mark Munger, the Southeast Regional Network Coordinator, and shared how the Marine for Life Network helped him as he prepared for transition.
Read More
Keeping Your Information Safe: How to Make the Perfect Password
October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month! Believe it or not, the internet touches almost all aspects of your daily life, so it’s important to stay aware of your online presence. To help increase your online safety, check out some of these tips from the Department of Homeland Security on how to create a stronger and better password.
Read More
Rebooting Virtual Learning after the Holiday Break
Let’s face it. Returning to school after the holidays is tough for everyone. Parents, teachers, and students all struggle to get back into a normal routine. Following some simple strategies can make the transition easier.
Read More
MCX Book Club
Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey, author of Greenlights, will be featured in the second series of the MCX Book Club:
Read More
Celebrating Abilities with National Down Syndrome Awareness Month
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, making Down syndrome the most common chromosomal condition. The National Down Syndrome Society estimates that 6,000 babies in the United States are born with Down syndrome each year.
Read More
Family Care Plan on Marine Online
The way Marines can ensure accountability for their families in case of an emergency just got a lot easier. Last month, Headquarters Marine Corps launched the Marine Online (MOL) Family Care Plan (FCP) Module.
Read More
Big Tobacco Targets Military Because "Military is Less Educated, Part of 'Wrong Crowd' and Have Limited Job Prospects"
Have you ever wondered why tobacco has been such a big part of military culture? One of the reasons is that the military has been a vital market for the tobacco industry.
Read More
5 Surprising Ways Tobacco Affects Your Body
You know that smoking and tobacco can affect your health. We’ve published articles on how it can affect your performance as a Marine, your stress, and even your pets. But did you know that tobacco and smoking can have even greater effects on your body and appearance? Check out these top surprising things you may not know are affected by tobacco-use.
Read More
NEW Policy for Prioritizing Request for Childcare
The new policy, directed by the Secretary of Defense, for prioritizing request for childcare was put into place today. Eligible Family members may request childcare for any Department of Defense (DoD) childcare program world-wide by accessing MilitaryChildcare.com. Lower priority patrons may be supplanted when the wait time for a viable installation childcare space for higher priority patron exceeds an Anticipated Placement Time greater than 45 days per the priority category.
Read More
Single Marine Program Creates Camaraderie and Competition with Autocross
On a typical Carolina July morning, the temperature is already 93° with a heat index of 103°. These conditions, however, do not stop the 60 or so drivers and additional 30 volunteers and spectators from participating in Autocross. Speeding around the runway and maneuvering through tight turns, weaving around cones and charging towards the finish — driving in Autocross is an exhilarating rush that requires quick reflexes, steady hands and mindful concentration.
Read More
Carving the Perfect Pumpkin
Happy Halloween from Marine and Family Programs! Have you carved your pumpkin yet? If not, check out some of these tips from Good Housekeeping on how to create a perfectly scary jack o’ lantern — and build in some family time as well.
Read More
#BeThere_Marine: September's Most Important Hashtag
Did you know that September is Suicide Prevention Month? Although efforts to address the issue occur year-round, the Marine Corps takes this month to highlight prevention efforts, promote resources and support services, and engage Marines and families in an awareness campaign that will promote community connectedness and belonging. This year, the Headquarters Marine Corps Suicide Prevention Program (MCSSP) created the hashtag and graphic, “#BeThere_Marine,” in support of the Defense Suicide Prevention Office “BeThere” campaign theme.
Read More
The Perfect Match
Marines who participate in the Blended Retirement System are eligible for matching contributions from the United States Government.
Read More
Stop Counting Sheep and Get Some Sleep
Do you have trouble sleeping? You are not alone. An estimated 50 to 70 million US adults have sleep or wakefulness disorder, and can cause a variety of problems throughout the day. Sleeping problems affect individuals for a variety of reasons. Learn how you can stop counting sheep and have a better night’s rest below.
Read More
How to Avoid the Holiday Blues When You're Far From Home
Spending time away from your home or family during the holidays can be hard, whether you or your loved one is deployed or you’re stationed far away from your family. Check out these tips to remaining festive during the holidays, no matter how far you are.
Read More
Let's Do The Math
Your tax deferred savings can multiply with the power of compound interest. Watch the video, "How Can Compound Savings Work for Me?"
Read More
Five Ways to Survive the Terrible Twos
Anyone with a child has some stories about the “terrible twos.” The age of two isn’t all bad — it’s filled with exploration, curiosity, and wonder. The terrible part comes in the form of screaming, the constant use of the word “no,” and those ever-so-fun meltdowns in the middle of the commissary.
Read More
The Importance of a Family Care Plan (FCP)
Are you asking, “why are FCPs important and do I really need one?” If so, then you are asking the right questions. The answer is simple; a completed FCP is a big step toward ensuring the well-being of your family so you can focus on work obligations. The Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) FCP training is designed to provide you with an understanding of Family Care Plans and information on how to develop one.
Read More
How to Make Networking Feel More Natural
Some people are born comfortable talking to anyone about anything. When you’re not one of these people, it's impressive and sometimes mystifying to watch someone with this gift in action. So how do you make networking feel more natural when you don't have this gift?
Read More
Don't let Covid-19 Deprive You of Important Social Connections
Does it seem like 2020 has put the kibosh on your day-to-day socializing activities, like visiting friends and family, public outings, or even that trip to your favorite coffee shop? Remember that practicing social distancing, doesn’t mean you should also socially isolate. But you will have to be more intentional about social connectedness.
Read More
HITT Athletes Rehydrate with Pedialyte
Pedialyte® is a proud sponsor of the 2017 High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Championship to be held at MCB Camp Pendleton from 28-31 August. Pedialyte will support the nutrition needs of Marines competing in Championships and will provide free samples to event attendees.
Read More
Do You Fight Fair? Resolving Conflict Peacefully
The word conflict might send a shiver down your spine, but did you know that conflict can actually be good for you? Conflict is a normal and healthy part of every relationship. Well-managed conflict can promote growth, intimacy, and trust in a relationship.
Read More
Stay Connected - Parenting Can Be Stressful
Strong communities strengthen families. Everyone in the Marine Corps community plays a role in fostering strong families and keeping kids safe. Parents play the biggest role; parenting is key to protecting families. Parenting is difficult, but there are steps that you can take to protect your family and successfully parent.
Read More
All-Marine Rugby Team Hosts Royal Navy at MCB Quantico
Exciting times at Quantico for rugby fans! MCB Quantico will serve as host for the Royal Navy Rugby Union (RNRU) Senior XV Tour 10-22 September. The tour consists of 28 active duty Royal Navy Sailors and Marines, 6 training support staff and 3 Executive members. The team will train aboard Quantico and while touring will play matches against the United States Naval Academy and the Potomac Exiles Rugby Club.
Read More
Interviews: How to Prepare for Any Situation
Throughout your job search, you may encounter a variety of interviews that are potentially different from the face-to-face meetings you’re used to. Check out this list of potential interview situations you might encounter and how best to prepare for them.
Read More
Add LinkedIn to Your Job Search Toolkit!
As you are searching for a new job or starting your transition from active duty to civilian-land, you will probably use many different tools to search for your new career. One such tool is LinkedIn. LinkedIn is more than a social networking website; it is an opportunity for employment networking. How you use LinkedIn will be different than how you would use other social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Read More
Mindfulness: Reset, Relax, and Recharge
Mindfulness trains your brain to stay in the present moment and practicing mindfulness can help you relax and lower your blood pressure. Mindfulness can help you become more focused, alert, and tuned in to your body.
Read More
Family Member Employment Resources
At your Installation’s Family Member Employment Assistance Program (FMEAP) office, you can expect our highly trained team members to provide active duty family members with support in achieving their personal and professional goals through employment, education, or volunteer opportunities.
Read More
EFMP: Supporting Marines and their Families with Special Needs
You may have heard of the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) before, but do you know all that it does and how many Marine Families it touches?
Read More
New Online Resource Puts the EFMP at Your Fingertips
Beginning May 30, 2018, access to the Exceptional Family Member Program’s (EFMP) – Resources, Options, and Consultations (ROC) feature, will become available on MilitaryOneSource, making it easier for families who are not near an EFMP center or whose schedules conflict with center hours to meet and receive the assistance they need.
Read More
What's New in the 2016 Military Lending Act (MLA)?
Getting a loan can be scary. Stories about fraud and predatory practices from loan companies abound. Luckily, the Marine Lending Act (MLA) helps protect you. But what is the MLA? How does it work? And if you’re already familiar with the MLA, do you know what changes have occurred to the law within the past year?
Read More
Four Signs of a Toxic Relationship
It can, often times, be pretty easy to define a physically unsafe relationship. It is a relationship where one or both partners are hit, pushed, or physically harmed in some way. It becomes more complicated to determine if a relationship is emotionally unsafe. Here are some red flags that may indicate you or someone you love may be in a toxic relationship.
Read More
Paddles up: Marines Blow Away Competition in Dragon Boat Race
The U.S. Marine Corps Single Marine Program (SMP) participated in the annual dragon boat race this year. If you don’t know what a dragon boat race is, you’re missing out. Dragon boat racing is a flat-water, paddling sport enjoyed by people of all ages all around the world. Originating in Southern China over 2000 years ago, dragon boat racing started gathering interest in the western world in the 1970s. Today, it is incredibly popular both as a recreational and highly competitive sport and is especially popular for community and corporate team building, charitable fundraising events, and for promoting awareness and support for cancer. The challenge in dragon boat racing lies more in synchronization with your fellow paddlers through the entire race than in the paddling technique, although both are important.
Read More
Changing Attitudes During Alcohol Awareness Month
Each April, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) sponsors Alcohol Awareness Month. The goal of alcohol awareness month is to help increase awareness and understanding of alcoholism, its causes, effective treatment, and recovery. It also seeks to provide those who suffer from alcoholism an opportunity to connect with accessible resources.
Read More
Is There Actually a Fair Fight?
Relationship researcher John Gottman found that contempt is a key indicator a relationship will have problems and eventually fail. In fact, his research has found it to be the number one predictor of divorce. What is contempt? Gestures such as eye-rolling or sneering when you are talking, or sharing things in a negative or sarcastic tone can be signs. Mocking your partner, name-calling, and displays of disrespect fall into this category as well.
Read More
The Ultimate Holiday Stay-cation Guide
The holidays are a special time of year – the smell of gingerbread, cinnamon, turkey, and the constant acts of giving and kindness throughout the community. When a Marine isn\\'t able to go home for the holidays, MCCS is here to provide many opportunities that allow Marines to experience the holiday cheer.
Read More
Marine Spouse 101: Four Big Misconceptions I Had About Living on Base
AddThis Sharing Buttons Share to FacebookShare to TwitterShare to EmailShare to More1 GO BACK As if moving to a new town or new state isn’t stressful enough, assuming things about where you and your Marine will be stationed won’t help. Life has a funny way of working itself out, and you might be surprised to find everything is going to be OK – that is, once you figure out where you’re living. Here are four things I was wrong about before moving to base.
Read More
Alcohol, Ads, and Your Kids: How to Read Between the Lines
Advertising is everywhere–on TV, the bus, the street, and the Internet.1 Alcohol advertising is no exception. Alcohol ads make the product look great, associating the brand with cool, sexy people, and fun activities. The ads are specifically designed to communicate appealing ideas about the product: “it’s for people like me,” “it makes activities even better,” “it’s popular/stylish,” and “people want to be seen drinking this.” Unfortunately, the ads may make our youth think all of these things too.
Read More
Getting Hired in the Federal Government through Veteran's Recruitment Appointment
Getting into the Federal workforce can seem like a daunting task, but there are ways to make it easier. Did you know there are special hiring authorities designed for transitioning Marines and Veterans to help ease the transition to federal employment?
Read More
What are the Steps for Marines Who Are Interested in Applying for LSP?
Are you a Marine who has dreams of pursuing your education at a selective school? The Leadership Scholar Program was created to provide application assistance to qualified Marines as they transition from active duty to pursue their education goals at the nation’s top four year, not-for-profit colleges and universities.
Read More
inTransition: The Mental Health Resource in Any Stage of Service
Transitioning of any sort can be a difficult and stressful time for many military members. Whether it be transitioning to another assignment, returning from a deployment, transitioning to Reserves, or leaving the military, it can take a toll on your overall mental health. While the Marine Corps has many different resources for Active Duty service members, there is another resource available to Active Duty service members, National Guard members, reservists and veterans.
Read More
Leadership Scholar Program: How can Marines Prepare to Go to Selective Colleges and Universities?
The Leadership Scholar Program (LSP) was formed to support the admission of qualified Marines to four year, not-for-profit colleges and universities across the nation. As if that wasn’t enough reason to access this resource, check out the many free programs LSP works with to help Marines prepare to further their education at selective colleges and universities.
Read More
Students at MCB Camp Lejeune Learn Resiliency Skills with Anchored4Life
PCS can be hard for anyone — packing up and changing locations, houses, and schools is difficult, especially on kids. Luckily for students near Camp Lejeune, a new program aims to make that transition easier.
Read More
All-Marine Sports Celebrates the Legacy of Roberto Clemente
Humanitarian Hall of Fame Ballplayer, Marine. September 9th, 2020, marked the annual celebration of Roberto Clemente Day across Major League Baseball.
Read More
Complete the Picture
All Marines know the importance of sight alignment and sight picture. But have you taken the time to begin snapping in for your retirement years? If you retire from the Marine Corps, your pension and Social Security can take you pretty far on your journey to retirement. But for Marines in either the legacy or blended retirement system, an employer sponsored savings plan, such as the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) can help make the picture complete.
Read More
Sports Hall of Fame Inductees Honor Their Time in the Marines
Perseverance, determination, honor: the basic tenets of athleticism are core values that every Marine upholds. That theme held true Wednesday July 12, when the Marine Corps honored its 2017 inductees to the Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame, at the Marine Corps Museum. “Most of us consider ourselves athletes. It’s part of what we do as Marines…[Tonight’s awardees] helped lay the groundwork for Marine athletes today.. It is on their shoulders we stand,” said 37th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps Gen. Robert B. Neller. “These inductees did great things in the Corps…but remained above all, Marines.”
Read More
eMentor, an Award Winning Online Mentor Program
To support National Mentoring Month the Marine For Life Network hosted a Facebook Q&A; session with eMentor. Here are the top ten things you need to know about eMentor.
Read More
Establishing Consent: What Does it Mean?
This month, SAPR released a set of comic strips addressing different aspects of consent (featured below the article). Check out these talking points to learn more about consent and why Marines and the general public need to be aware of its tenets.
Read More
Deep Breaths: Learn How to Air Out Your Stress
Feeling stressed or like your life is out of control? Tackle it by doing something you do have power over: breathing. Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress in the body. It takes little time, requires no equipment, and can be done anywhere. Here are three basic breathing exercises to try.
Read More
Spread the Word – DHS is Hiring Veterans
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently announced a push to hire more Veterans. DHS is seeking hundreds of qualified veterans to fill mission-critical positions in law enforcement, business operations, budget/finance/accounting, information technology, intelligence, and more. DHS is actually a leader in Veteran employment across the federal government, already employing more than 50,000 Veterans.
Read More
2018 Semper Fit Athletes of the Year
Congratulations to 1st Lt. Lindsay R. Carrick, Officer Candidate School, MCB Quantico, Virginia, and Staff Sergeant Jason T. Pacheco, Wounded Warrior Battalion-West, MCB Camp Pendleton, California who have been chosen as the 2018 Marine Corps Semper Fit Athletes of the year. These outstanding Marines were recognized at the Commandant’s Combined Awards Ceremony held at Marine Corps Base Quantico, on January 11, 2019.
Read More
Holiday Hacks for a Healthy Workplace
The holiday crunch is almost upon us. Days are shorter and darker, it’s cold outside, and on top of all that, we’re rushing to attend holiday gatherings and get all our shopping done. It seems like the list never ends. Something has to give and it’s usually our self-care.
Read More
Holiday Parties: How to Keep the Calories Down and Still Have Fun
Thanksgiving has come and gone, and with it, delicious turkey, numerous pies, and, unfortunately, plenty of extra calories. As the holiday season continues, it’s likely to expect more of the same.
Read More
Eight Tips to Keep your Family Safe this Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is filled with picnics, fireworks, family, and fun! Here are some tips on how to keep everyone in your family safe during this holiday.
Read More
Veteran Escapes Homelessness Thanks to Marine for Life
The cold winds of Chicago are not friendly to its denizens, and even less so to its homeless population. This dire situation is where Kevin J. Cavanaugh, the founder and President of the Veteran Restaurant Group, met a young Marine in crisis in May 2016.
Read More
You Voted -- Now Check Out the New L.I.N.K.S. 20th Anniversary Logo
You voted, waited, and the results are in! Check out the brand new L.I.N.K.S. logo, which will be featured alongside the yearlong celebration of L.I.NK.S.’ 20th anniversary. Lifestyle Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills workshop, also known as L.I.N.K.S., is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in serving Marines and their families beginning September 1, 2017 and running through August 31, 2018, Marine Corps-wide.
Read More
How to Prepare for an Interview
Your performance in an interview can make or break landing a job, so you always want to be on your A-game. Check out this list of nine things you can do to effectively prepare for your interview.
Read More
EMFP. Unleashing the Human Spirit Through the Joy of Sports
In 2018, the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) partnered with Special Olympics to implement Young Athletes, which is a program offered children with and without disabilities, the opportunity to play and learn together.
Read More
Keep Your Brain Trained!
Jim Mattis, the esteemed retired Marine Corps general and former Secretary of State once said, “The most important six inches on the battlefield is between your ears.” He was referring to the warfighter’s brain, of course, and to the fundamental need for Marines to be “smart” on the battlefield. The recently published Marine Corps Learning Doctrine expanded upon this idea. It states, “Success in warfare depends on Marines developing an intellectual edge to accurately recognize cues, quickly make sense of information, and respond effectively.”
Read More
Single Marine Program "Days of Service" Provides Hours of Volunteer Aid
Every April, Marines across the Corps trade their rifles for shovels as part of the Single Marine Program’s (SMP) Days of Service Event. This year, over 5,000 volunteers spent more than 18,000 hours in service to their communities. Each event varies according to community needs: participants spend time with Veterans, clean beaches, volunteer at animal shelters, and more. Since SMP Days of Service runs the full week, that’s a lot of work.
Read More
Keeping Your Baby Safe During Sleep
Bringing home a newborn baby can be both a thrilling and terrifying experience. Now that they hold a tiny life in their hands, new parents are very concerned with how to keep their child safe. One of the biggest fears concerns Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), which is the leading cause of death in infants between one month and one year of age. During this time, babies are also at increased risk of accidental suffocation and strangulation during sleep.
Read More
Identifying Your Conflict Resolution Style
It is important to recognize and understand your conflict resolution style and the style of those around you.
Read More
Looking for "a Few Good Links?" Check Out Marine OnLine
When you need to find online Marine Corps resources, where do you turn first? If your initial response isn’t Marine OnLine, then it should be!
Read More
Don't Turn Holiday Cheers into Holiday Tears
We all want to relax, celebrate, and enjoy the holidays. Unfortunately, during this season, people tend to drink past the recommended limits more than any other time of the year. Many who overindulge will suffer negative consequences, ranging from fights to falls and traffic accidents to alcohol poisoning.
Read More
High Priorities: Honoring Warrior Care Month
In 2008, former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates designated November as Warrior Care Month. Each November, we especially honor our wounded warriors who sacrificed so much for both the Corps and for our country.
Read More
How the Marine for Life Network and our Representatives Can Work with Transitioning Marines!
Recently the Marine for Life Network and local Marine for Life (M4L) representative helped a retired Marine Colonel Russ Mantzel land a position with Booz Allen as a Strategy Consultant in Texas. Col Russ Mantzel retired in June 2018 and relocated to San Antonio, TX.
Read More
Respite Care Reimbursement Program for EFMP Families
Caring for a family member with significant medical or educational needs can strain even the most resilient people. The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) Respite Care Reimbursement Program provides an opportunity for caregivers to focus on their own well-being and avoid caregiver burn out.
Read More
Beat the Heat: Keep Your Child Safe This Summer
One of the most important jobs you have as a parent is to keep your children safe. That can prove a challenge during the summer months with children out of school and with the increased heat. Accidents happen to all of us; however some accidents are preventable. Here are some guidelines that can help keep your family safe during the hot summer months.
Read More
Caregiving Around the Clock
This is an actual representation of a day and week for an Active Duty Service member and their family who are currently enrolled in EFMP. Pretty full, isn’t it?
Read More
Emergency Funds 101
You never know what the future will hold, especially in terms of finances. Chances are that at some point, an unexpected event will impact your income, whether it’s a change in employment, medical expense, or an unplanned expense during a move.
Read More
Celebrating the Force Behind the Force
November marks the annual celebration of National Military Family Appreciation Month. Every day, military families from all over the world make countless sacrifices in the wake of the separations, uncertainties, and limited communications that are a tenet of military life. The Marine Corps recognizes the selfless dedication of its families. Their unwavering dedication does not go unnoticed. They are the force behind the force — families have a profound impact on the readiness and resiliency of Marines.
Read More
Check out the 2020 Virtual Military Spouse Symposium
The Department of Defense Spouse Education and Career Opportunities team will host the 2020 Virtual Military Spouse Symposium from 29 to 30 April 2020. The two-day virtual symposium is designed to provide military spouses with up-to-date and relevant information related to career development, entrepreneurship, personal branding, employer connections and more.
Read More
Getting Ready to PCS With Your Kids? Make It Fun!
Moving is stressful for everyone, not just parents. Saying good-bye to friends, worrying about fitting in at a new school, trying out for new teams, and wanting to be accepted can lead to stress for kids during a permanent change of station (PCS). To help younger kids, you can make it an adventure. Show them your new city on a map. Look on the internet for interesting facts to talk about for the new area. If the trip is long, bring games. Pinterest can be a good source of ideas with printable games. If you are driving and have time to stop and see the sites along the way, use it as an opportunity to visit parts of the country you might not otherwise see in person. If you are flying, make sure electronics are charged and pack snacks in case of delays.
Read More
Get Started Writing Your Resume Today!
Never written a resume before? Don’t sweat it. Sure, it seems daunting if you are staring at a blank computer screen, but it will not be blank for long!
Read More
Saving Money: How to Start Small
Setting aside money for savings can be daunting, especially if money is already tight. However, there are ways that you can put money away for a rainy day, even in the smallest increments (and we’re not just talking about the clichéd tip to stop visiting Starbucks). Check out some ideas on how to make extra money to put away.
Read More
New Year, New-trition
Start the year with a resolution for healthy eating. Here are 5 tips to start your nutrition right this year:
Read More
Tough Conversations: How to Talk About Suicide
Suicide is a complex issue, and we all have a role in minimizing risks, not only for ourselves but for others. Knowing where to start the conversation can be hard and can seem like a daunting task, however, having tough conversations can save someone’s life. The following are some tips when approaching someone you’ve recognized “acting outside their norm” and may need help.
Read More
MCAS Cherry Point Wins Gold Medal for Excellence in Parks and Recreation
Congratulations Cherry Point! In late September, the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and National Recreation and Park Association awarded its Gold Medal to Marine Corps Air Station at Cherry Point.
Read More
How to Stay Cool and Save Money All Summer Long
Saving energy is not only good for the environment, but it can be good for your wallet as well. "Americans spend about $2,000 per household on energy every year - but many of them could save a few hundred of that without changing their lifestyle," says former Energy Secretary Steven Chu. Check out these simple tips to beat the heat from both your budget and the sun.
Read More
Beat the Heat: Dehydration and Heat Stroke Safety Tips
Every summer, thousands of service members are treated for heat-related illness, such as dehydration, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion. Although mild dehydration may not normally cause issues, it will affect your work. Losing just four percent of your body weigh due to dehydration can decrease physical performance by 50 percent (which can happen in less than two hours when exercising/working in the heat!).
Read More
Bottle or Breast: Which is Best for You?
Many parents have heard the saying, “Breast is best,” but that may not hold true for every mom. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends feeding babies only breast milk for the first six months of life; breastfeeding helps in defending against infections and preventing allergies.
Read More
Do You Have What It Takes to be a Competitive Drone Race?
There are numerous grassroots and online resources available to learn about drone racing including but not limited to, the U.S. Drone Racing Association (www.usdra.org); the Drone Racing League (thedroneracingleague.com); and MultiGP (www.multigp.com).
Read More
Are You Relocating?
If you are relocating, the Information and Referral (I&R;) office at your installation should be your first stop. I&R; staff can assist you in connecting to a variety of Marine & Family Programs available, as well as resources from the Department of Defense and sister service organizations.
Read More
Calling All Athletes: Compete in the High Intensity Tactical Training Championship
The Marine Corps is looking for its next High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) champion — could that be you? HITT Championship qualifying events will take place on participating installations from May 14 – June 30. The final event will be held at MCB Camp Lejeune September 24-28.
Read More
Marine Corps Information and Referral Specialists Can Assist with Hurricane Resources
The Marine Corps Information, Referral, and Relocation program partners with United Way’s 2-1-1 agencies to provide resources to those affected by recent hurricanes.
Read More
SkillBridge Spotlight: Microsoft Software & Systems Academy
Are you ready to learn skills that could translate into a new career in technology? Learn more about the Microsoft Software & Systems Academy (MSSA) in Quantico, VA.
Read More
Don't Let Covid-19 Get You Stuck Indoors
Does it seem like 2020 has put the kibosh on your day-to-day socializing activities, like visiting friends and family, public outings, or even that trip to your favorite coffee shop? Remember that practicing social distancing, doesn’t mean you should also socially isolate. But you will have to be more intentional about social connectedness.
Read More
Tips for Marine Corps Ball Etiquette, Novice to Expert
Marine Corps Birthday Ball season is upon us! It’s a unique night of tradition, fun, formal attire, and food. Special events like this call for some special tips in order for it to be truly a positive night to remember. If this is your first ball or your 30th, these novice Marine Corp Ball etiquette tips continue to apply.
Read More
Make the Most of National Mentoring Month by Volunteering
Trying to start the New Year off by doing something good? The perfect opportunity is right in your own backyard! January is National Mentoring Month and a time to lend skills and support to your local community. Sponsored in part by the Corporation for National and Community Service, National Mentoring Month is an annual campaign to draw attention to the need for more volunteer mentors — meaning your talents and skills are needed. So, spend some time helping your community!
Read More
What Changes Can You Expect with the "Forever G.I. Bill"
Last week, the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act, known as the “Forever G.I. Bill,” was signed into law. This law will allow more Veterans to use the G.I. Bill, as well as give them more time to use it. Want to know more? Check out some of the specifics per the Department of Veterans Affairs below:
Read More
MCCS Recognizes Food and Hospitality Activity Excellence
Fifty-six MCCS restaurant and hospitality activities are recognized for their exceptional performance in 2019 with Food and Hospitality Excellence Awards. The Food and Hospitality Excellence Award Program was established by Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) to recognize restaurant and hospitality activities that exceed the highest level of operational excellence and service.
Read More
Celebrating Veterans Day: What It Means to Us
Every 11 November, the nation comes together to remember and honor the service and sacrifices of our Veterans. Veteran’s Day means many things to many people. The staff of the Marine For Life Network, many of them Veterans themselves, reflects on what Veteran’s Day means to them.
Read More
Tips to Reset Things When You Are Angry
"Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured." —Mark Twain
Read More
Single Marine Program: Why is it So Great
Since its inception in 1992, the Single Marine Program (SMP) has been a valuable asset that’s kept Marines connected, given them a voice in leadership, and allowed them to give back to their communities. But what specifically is so great about it? We asked two Marines, Corporal Robert Ratcliff and Sergeant Ahsan Gaskins, about their experience in the SMP:
Read More
Historical Significance of Marine Corps Uniform Items
The distinctive look of the Marine Corps uniforms is one that is recognized all around the world. But do you know how they came to be? Check out the historical significance of these important uniform items.
Read More
Fentanyl: The Little Devil
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid prescribed for severe pain relief, led to what President Trump calls the worst drug crisis in American history. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl is up to 100 times more potent than morphine. Senator Claire McCaskill said, “Fentanyl is now killing more Americans than heroin or any other opioid.” In a recent Morbidity and Mortality Report from the CDC, more than 20,000 deaths occurred in the United States due to overdoses of fentanyl and related drugs.
Read More
Tuition Assistance Updates and Preparation: How to be Ready
If you are planning to apply for Tution Assistance, here’s what you can do to get ready.
Read More
Where There's a Skill, There's a Way
You’ve probably heard the adage, “where there’s a will, there’s a way.” That’s a powerful statement about determination. But how about the variation, “where there’s a skill, there’s a way?” Employers want to hire skillful individuals. Skills (and determination) solve problems. Making the best of your skillsets should help you overcome difficult problems.
Read More
Four Tips to Prepare Your Professional References
You know that references are an important part of the job search process, and recognize that because they are at the end of the interview cycle, they can be an afterthought until requested. Failure to prepare references ahead of time can result in the loss of a potential job offer. Check out these four tips to maximize the value of your references during your job search process.
Read More
Quit Tobacco Your Way - Resources to Help You Along
The first step in quitting tobacco is thinking about quitting and every attempt to quit is a step in the right direction.
Read More
Capture a Piece of Marine Corps Tradition This Veterans Day
Veterans Day is an official United States public holiday observed annually on November 11th. Marine Corps Veterans are a vital link to the history and tradition of the Corps.
Read More
Five Tips to Becoming a Networking Guru
Successful networking is easier said than done! Learn how to become a networking guru from Jamal Brown, who enrolled in the USMC Delayed Entry Program during his senior year of high school. Jamal served 11 years on Active Duty, and resigned as a Staff Sergeant of Marines, with an honorable discharge in May 2005. Currently Jamal serves as the Marine For Life Regional Network Coordinator, where he oversees the networking efforts of Marine For Life throughout the western United States.
Read More
Near or Far, Bring the Joy of the Holidays to Your Children
Wherever you go, there are constant reminders of the holiday season. Holiday music plays, decorations are hung, and Santa is everywhere. These reminders often build anticipation and excitement for children, but for kids with a deployed parent, the holiday hustle and bustle can be painful. It can serve as a constant reminder that their loved one is not home.
Read More
Converting Coverage Under the FSGLI Program
Spousal coverage under the Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI) program doesn’t have to be permanent. Following certain life events, spouses have the option of conversion, which is a process that allows individuals to transfer their existing group coverage to an individual life policy without the need to provide evidence of good health.
Read More
Oh, The Weather Outside Is Frightful
You may be singing your favorite holiday classic, but there are a number of reasons why some Marines or Marine Corps Families may not join you in singing. The holiday period sometimes means duty that will not allow Marines to visit family. It may also mean that some do not desire visiting family, or that it may be detrimental for them. Finances can also be a factor when it comes to heading home during the holidays.
Read More
A Series of Firsts: Females in the Marine Corps
Opha Mae is an English bulldog who’s about to make history — once she’s completed training, Opha Mae will become the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island’s first female mascot. When she assumes the role, Opha May will earn the rank of private.
Read More
Getting Outdoors
The days are shorter, but the possibilities for enjoying the outdoors during the winter season are endless. Vibrant fall colors give way to serene winter wonderlands blanketed in snow. Wildlife may be on the move heading south to lower elevations, or hunkering down until spring. In southern areas, it might mean cooler temperatures and a break from the humidity and heat. All are great reasons to get outdoors!
Read More
How to Build Confidence While Job Searching
It can be easy to lose confidence while you’re searching for a job, especially if your search has lasted a while. Consider applying these tips to build confidence during your job search.
Read More
Does Your Budget Have a Holiday Hangover?
The financial discomfort that results from overspending during the holiday season doesn\'t have to be an annual experience. Before this year\'s holiday season, shoppers said they planned to spend about $825 on average on gifts. If the numbers hold from last year\'s report on holiday spending, about half of shoppers will take on additional debt during the season. But don\'t despair - with some planning and discipline, this could be the last year your budget has a holiday hangover.
Read More
Seven Resume Mistakes that Might be Holding You Back
Is your resume is perfect? Are you sure? We might all be familiar with the basics of writing a resume, but some easy mistakes can disqualify you from the job you’re seeking. Double check your resume today and get started on landing the job you want.
Read More
So...What is a Mentor, Exactly?
Mentor. Coach. Guide. Counselor. Teacher. Instructor. Adviser. The word “mentor” has a lot of meanings, whether you’re looking it up in the dictionary or asking what it might mean to you personally.
Read More
Chicago Marine Goes From Cammies to a Suit
The M4L Representatives are Reservists that are embedded in communities throughout the US. Their job is to build and sustain networks of Marine-friendly employers and local resources. Many M4L representatives support this effort by hosting local networking events. These events range from luncheons, job fairs, to networking happy hours; their main goal, however, is to bring together Marines, family members, and local Marine-friendly employers and resources. M4L Networking events can be a great way to meet new people and to seek employment opportunities. Below is a success story from a Marine in Chicago who found a new job through attending a M4L networking event.
Read More
Libraries Lead the Way for National Library Week
First sponsored in 1958, National Library week is a nationwide celebration sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries across the United States each year in April.
Read More
From Excavator to Assistant Superintendent
In August 2016, a Marine SNCO in the Selected Marine Corps Reserve connected with MSgt Andrew Janovicz, a Marine For Life Representative based in Indiana. At the time of their meeting, the Marine Staff Sergeant was an excavator with a skill focus in construction. The job was low paying and provided little stability and the hours were often inconsistent and unreliable.
Read More
How to Be the Ultimate HITT Champion
The third annual High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Championship will soon be underway. From August 28–31, top male and female athletes compete to be the best HITT athlete in the Marine Corps. Events include strength and conditioning activities that mirror the seven foundational movements within the HITT program.
Read More
Are you Living on Autopilot? Three Easy Steps to Experiencing More Good in Your Daily Life
Do you feel like you live your life on autopilot, not fully aware of what you’re doing? Take a minute and reflect:
Read More
New Online Enrollment System Makes Servicemember Group Life Insurance Easier
When was the last time you updated your Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI)? SGLI is a program that provides low-cost term life insurance coverage to eligible Marines. If eligible, you are automatically enrolled in SGLI and issued the maximum coverage. However, you have the option to decline SGLI coverage, select a lesser amount of coverage, and designate beneficiaries at any time. A good rule of thumb is to review your SGLI annually, and update it every time you experience a major life event, such as marriage or the birth of a child.
Read More
Six Tips for the Experience Section of Your Resume
Writing your resume? Take these six tips into account as you craft the “Experience” section of your resume.
Read More
Bridging the Generation Gap
Communicating across generations has always been essential; more so in today's connected world. Understanding how various generations communicate and behave can be the key to success in reaching a common goal. Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) strives to support and promote diversity geared towards the workplace and within personal lives. Various workshops are provided to Service Members and families as well as internal train-the-trainer workshops.
Read More
Breastfeeding: the Best Nutrition for Babies
August is national breastfeeding awareness month. Leading health organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that all babies are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives and continue breastfeeding with appropriate complementary foods for at least one year.
Read More
Chuck Norris to Marines: Protect What You've Earned
Protect What You’ve Earned. As a Marine, it’s a phrase you know and endorse. Who else is a proponent of PWYE? None other than Chuck Norris. Norris, who served in the Air Force before rising to fame, says in his video that he was named an honorary Marine several years ago and has been proud of that distinction ever since.
Read More
So What is FMEAP?
Rebecca Dreier, Family Member Employment Assistance Program staff member at MCRD Parris Island and spouse of a Veteran Marine, knows the value of FMEAP.
Read More
Four Tips on Virtual Networking
Building meaningful connections through effective networking is responsible for nearly 80 percent of jobs landed in the civilian workforce. If you are a transitioning Marine, networking can positively impact on both your personal and professional development.
Read More
Internet Fraud is Alive and Well: How to Protect Yourself
Fraud is a common occurrence and although most of us think of ourselves as savvy fraud spotters, even the sharpest individuals can be fooled. Learn how to spot a fraud from this story, based on Marines who were recently victims of a scam. How many warning signs or markers can you find?
Read More
Join the MCCS Team!
Marine Corps Community Services provides a wide variety of services to Marines, Sailors and their families at installations around the world. MCCS offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and working for MCCS allows you to give back to the Marine Corps community
Read More
Mentorship for Veterans
Mentorship has been a part of every Marine’s life ever since they stepped on the yellow footprints. Teaching, guiding, encouraging, motivating, and challenging are all outstanding characteristics of being mentored while on active duty.
Read More
It's Time to Talk About Cyberbullying
Cybersecurity is important for Marines and their families. While part of that means keeping your online identity and information safe, it also means keeping your emotional health safe online as well — that’s why it’s important to talk about cyberbullying.
Read More
Transitioning? Make Sure You're Mentally Prepared
Are you transitioning out of active duty? Behavioral Health Programs on Marine Corps installations have services to assist you.
Read More
Beat the Heat with Summer Energy-Saving Tips
Dust off your sunglasses, put on your flip-flops, and fire up the barbecue – it’s summertime. For many people, this time of year not only brings long, sun-filled days, but also energy costs that seem to rise as quickly as the temperature.
Read More
Volunteer This Holiday Season
Are you looking for a way to give back this holiday season? Volunteering may be just what you are looking for. It is a great way to get involved in your community and unit, work together as a family, and spread some holiday cheer! As Marine Corps families, we do not have the luxury of celebrating the holidays in the same location every year, so getting out and helping others creates lasting memories at each duty station.
Read More
Alcohol Awareness Month
Founded and sponsored by the National Council of Alcohol and Drug Dependence (NCADD), Alcohol Awareness Month was established in 1987 to help reduce the stigma often associated with alcoholism by sharing information each April about alcohol, alcoholism, and recovery.
Read More
Who Will Be the DoD Sexual Assault Prevention Award Winner?
An innovator. A contributor. A warrior against sexual assault. If these words describe someone you know, consider nominating them for the third annual DOD Sexual Assault Prevention Innovation Award!
Read More
Why You Need to Add Agility Work to Your Fitness Routine Today
Whether you’re a Marine or a spouse trying to keep up with your Marine, you may be asking yourself “why should I incorporate agility drills into my work out?” Not only does agility work improve the acceleration and deceleration going into and out of a cut, but it also develops better coordination, reduces your risk of injury, and increases stabilization of your lower body joints.
Read More
CMC and SMMC Message: Prevent and Stop Retaliation
Every Marine is a leader, and leaders have a responsibility to stop and prevent retaliation. We must keep the faith of those we lead and serve with.
Read More
How Marine For Life Helped Smooth One Marine's Transition
After learning of the Marine For Life Network during the Transition Readiness Seminar, Staff Sergeant Jenkins, a Marine Corps Data Chief, decided to give the program a shot. He joined the Marine For Life Network on LinkedIn where he was able to connect with employers and mentors in his field.
Read More
How Can L.I.N.K.S. Help You with Your PCS?
PCS Season is winding down. Most families are getting settled in their new environments and finding changes in places they’ve been. Even if you’ve been to your new duty station before, there are always things to learn. Whenever you get to a new duty station, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local resources, changes to the Marine Corps, and get the lay of the land. But where do you go to accomplish all of this? Lifestyle Insights, Networking, Knowledge & Skills (L.I.N.K.S.) has your answers! Whether you and your family have been in the Marine Corps for one year or twenty years, L.I.N.K.S. provides valuable information for every stage of your family’s life or career.
Read More
In an Interview, Always Reach for the STARS!
Too often job candidates walk into an interview ready to tell the interviewer a laundry list of their previous responsibilities when all the interviewer wants to hear is what you can do for them.
Read More
5 Ways American Job Centers Help Veterans Get Employed!
American Job Centers (or AJCs) provide free help to job seekers for a variety of career and employment-related needs. Nearly 2,500 AJCs, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration, are located throughout the United States.
Read More
Quantico Celebrates Marine Corps Spouses
When was the last time you said thank you to your military spouse? Empty beds, dirty boots, long separations, constant moves… military spouses carry a heavy burden, which they gladly shoulder in order to create a home, regardless of where they are stationed.
Read More
Go Green, Marine
Earth Day, celebrated worldwide on April 22, is a time to raise awareness for environmental issues and to reduce our impact on the planet. Climate change is already impacting our planet- we’ve experienced more volatile, severe storms, increased stress and instability in vulnerable nations, and water and resource scarcity – all potential challenges to the Marine Corps.
Read More
2017 USMC Sports Hall of Fame: Thomas "Tommy" Patrick Loughran
Tommy Loughran was born in Philadelphia, PA on November 29, 1902. Known throughout his boxing career as the “Phantom of Philly,” he was the 12th light heavyweight champion in boxing history and deemed, the most skilled boxer in the sport at the time. During his career, Loughran fought 12 world champions, ranging from welterweight to the heavyweight division. Loughran\\\\\'s effective use of coordinated footwork, sound defense, and swift and accurate counter-punching techniques served as a precursor to the skills practiced in modern day boxing.
Read More
PCS Season is a Great Time to Clean Out your Medicine Cabinet
As you prepare to move this summer, make sure you take some time to organize and clean out your medicine cabinet. Removing medications from your home not only helps prevent accidental drug misuse and drug abuse, but also keeps them out of the hands of children.
Read More
L.I.N.K.S. 20th Anniversary
Lifestyle Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills workshop, also known as L.I.N.K.S. is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in serving Marines and their families on September 1, 2017, Marine Corps-wide.
Read More
You are Not Alone: Relationship Resources for Marine Corps Couples
Relationships are a part of life. In the Marine Corps it is no different. While every couple is unique in how they cope with military life, one unifying theme is clear: you are not alone. Whether you are experiencing stress as you redefine your role in the relationship, or are pondering how to talk to your spouse about how your lives have changed as a result of military experiences, you are not alone.
Read More
5 Simple Life Hacks to Help Your Teen Relieve Stress
It’s a fact of life, whether the stress comes from school, friends, or home, your teen will experience stress. The good news is there are simple steps to help your teen manage stress. Below are five life hacks for teens to help relieve stress.
Read More
Summer is the Perfect Time to Volunteer
Summer is a time of many changes, especially for Military families. Not only is it PCS season, but school is out, and days are a little longer.
Read More
July is Military Consumer Protection Month
Do you have debt? Do you have student loans? Are frequent moves and deployments making it difficult to access services?
Read More
Spring into Energy Savings
As we get closer to spring, the snow and chilly weather (if you live somewhere that has it!) will begin to clear, and the days will grow longer. The spring season is a great time for fun outdoor activities with loved ones, like barbeques and picnics, you may have missed during the winter. This is also a tricky time of the year to be energy conscious.
Read More
Why LinkedIn is for you, Marines!
Are you thinking about creating a LinkedIn profile but aren’t sure if it’s the right career move for you as a transitioning Marine? Here are the top four reasons why you should join LinkedIn today.
Read More
Are You Ready for the 2016 HITT Championship?
It’s that time of year again as Marine Corps officials finalize preparations for the Second Annual High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Athlete Championship from Aug. 15-18, 2016, at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, California.
Read More
Watt's It Take to Cook Thanksgiving Dinner?
Each Thanksgiving, families and friends from across the country come together around the dinner table. Stories are shared, stuffing is savored, and your crazy uncle reminds you why he’s your crazy uncle. While everyone may not see eye-to-eye on politics or even what the best movie of the year was, chances are everyone can bond over a common love for turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.
Read More
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2020
Every April, the Military Services join the country in observing National Child Abuse Prevention Month. While this April is no exception, it is unfolding like none other with the COVID-19 pandemic dominating the headlines. To help, the Family Advocacy Program (FAP) would like to share some tips for navigating this unique season of life, while making your home as safe and pleasant as possible.
Read More
Tips to Help You Get Through the Holidays During Deployment
Tis the season to be jolly! Your Marine is deployed and it seems as if everyone is counting on you to keep the holiday blues away. If you feel as though you’ve run out of ideas, here are a few tips to get you and your family back into the holiday spirit.
Read More
Veterans Justice Outreach, Re-entry Programs, and Veterans Treatment Court
Once a Marine, Always a Marine: everyone knows a Veteran. What if that Veteran is in legal trouble? Do you know who to contact if they need assistance or which resources are available to them? We’ve gathered a few useful programs for Veterans that may be struggling with legal issues, incarceration, and re-entry.
Read More
Father's Day for Deployed Dads
June 19 is Father’s Day and many Marines will spend that day deployed from their loved ones. Finding the perfect gift or surprise for your Marine when he is deployed can be challenging for the whole family. Now is the time to start planning and mailing those packages. Here are a few simple suggestions on how to celebrate Father’s Day with your deployed Marine
Read More
Saving Energy is a Family Affair
It’s Energy Action Month, and you’re probably aware that the efficient use of energy is critical to the Marine Corps’ mission. But good energy habits are not just important for the Marine Corps – they also impact families both on and off base. When it comes to energy, today’s decisions can impact the future, so understanding the importance of being energy efficient at home, work, and school throughout the year is critical. It can also be fun!
Read More
Running to Improve Your Mood, Say What?
The Marine Corps considers physical fitness to be vital for Marines and their family members’ health. Although it’s a job requirement for Marines, the benefits go beyond the scope of the job. Did you know that just 20 minutes of moderate exercise can help combat feelings related to stress and improve your mood?
Read More
Declare Your Energy Independence
We all know that America declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776, but did you know that the Marine Corps is working to increase its energy independence from the electric grid?
Read More
Yes, You Can Find a Job on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is not only for professional networking. It also contains job listings that you can search, and sometimes you can apply for civilian jobs through LinkedIn rather than through an external site. Here’s how to find and apply for a job on LinkedIn.
Read More
Exceptional Family Member Program Helps Marine With Readiness
The Marine Corps lives and breathes by its service motto “Semper Fidelis,” which demonstrates the connectedness Marines have for the Marine Corps, their unit, and their brothers and sisters in arms.
Read More
How to Talk Openly About Suicide
It can be frightening when a friend or family member is thinking about suicide. What do you say? How do you say it? What if you say something wrong?
Read More
Just Say No: How to Stay Stress Free This Holiday Season
As the holiday season fast approaches, it brings with it opportunities for new memories, sales, and recipes. However, this time of year may also make it more difficult to say "No". We may overextend ourselves, our resources and our finances in an effort to stay in the holiday spirit.
Read More
2016 Workplace and Gender Relations Survey for Active Duty Members
Marines, take advantage of this opportunity to share your workplace experiences!
Read More
Top Tips for Giving Newborns a Safe Night Sleep
Keeping children safe starting in their earliest moments in life should be everyone’s priority. Newborns especially need parents and other adults to proactively ensure their safety, even while they are asleep.
Read More
2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games
Congratulations to the wounded warrior athletes who will represent the Marine Corps. The 2017 Department of Defense (DoD) Warrior Games will be held June 30 - July 8 in Chicago, Illinois.
Read More
Marine Spouse 101: Wedding Planning Tips to Save Your Sanity and Wallet
Planning a wedding is hard enough nowadays, with the industry trying to sell everything from designer white dresses to photo booth memories at the reception. It comes as no surprise it’s even harder when your fiancé is stationed 13 hours away. Here are some tips for the couple planning their wedding while positioned miles apart.
Read More
How a Letter of Recommendation Can Get a Marine Into College
Marines applying to become a part of the Marine Corps Leadership Scholar Program (LSP) sometimes question the need for a Letter of Recommendation in addition to all of the other parts of their LSP application packet. In short, numbers on a piece of paper and cold documentation can never convey the true representation of a person like a personal appeal from a respected colleague.
Read More
Marine Corps Installations Awarded for their Anti-Drug Programs
Two Marine Corps installations were recognized for the excellence of their drug awareness and educations programs this week at the Community Drug Awareness Awards ceremony in the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes.
Read More
It's Armed Forces Voters Week! Are You Registered to Vote?
On July 4, millions of overseas citizens, Marines and their families will celebrate U.S. Independence Day all over the world. Among the many freedoms citizens enjoy is the right to vote from wherever they are.
Read More
Marine Spouse 101: Don't Wait For Orders to Begin Your Job Search
How do you search for a job, if you don’t know where you’re going to be stationed? The real answer is, you get creative and utilize all the resources you can find. It’s not impossible to get an idea of where your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders might take you, but it’s certainly not easy.
Read More
April is National Autism Awareness Month
Have you been seeing a lot of puzzle ribbons lately? How about seas of people wearing blue and walking for a cause? That’s because April is National Autism Awareness Month!
Read More
Marine Spouse 101: Tips for Visiting Your Sweetheart on Base
Especially in the first year of a Marine’s contract, station assignments will likely change every few months as he or she picks up required training. If you have the time and resources, planning a weekend to visit is a good way to learn more about your Marine’s career – provided he or she has weekend liberties. Here are some tips for visiting on and off-base.
Read More
Your Healthy Lifestyle Festival: Coming Soon to a Commissary Near You
Research shows that more than 1 in 3 U.S. adults are obese. If you're one of them, you can work to lose weight. The Marine Corps provides awareness, education, resources, and opportunities to establish and/or maintain healthy, active lifestyles in order to achieve and maintain the right weight for your body type. Why not start by shopping at your local commissary this summer?
Read More
Having the Hard Conversations
It can be frightening when a friend or family member is thinking about suicide. What do you say? How do you say it? What if I say something wrong?
Read More
Total Fitness: Improving Behavioral Health Services Across the Marine Corps
Have you ever used the Marine Corps Community Counseling Program? What about the Family Advocacy Program or the DSTRESS Line? Did you have a positive experience? Well, your next experience is sure to be even better.
Read More
Marine Parents: Keep Your Kids Safe Online
Keeping kids safe on the internet is a challenging task. The popular social networking sites evolve so quickly that it can be difficult to keep up. What is a parent to do in the 21st century? Here are a few tips to help keep your children safe on the internet.
Read More
Get the Most of Your GI Bill Education Benefit
With all the advice on the web and through school admission officials on maximizing GI Bill Education Benefits, it may be difficult to decipher what advice is worth taking. While some of the advice floating around the internet might be beneficial, Marine Corps Voluntary Education experts suggest the first step in maximizing benefits starts with having a clear goal in mind before signing up for a degree program or buying attire to match a school’s theme.
Read More
Want a Happier, More Confident and Resilient Child? Help Them Build Their Social Capital!
What is social capital? It is the network of our relationships with people in our community. These relationships can increase our mental health and decrease psychological distress, loneliness and depression.
Read More
Light it Up Blue
AddThis Sharing Buttons Share to FacebookShare to TwitterShare to EmailShare to More GO BACK “Light it Up Blue” is a slogan you may hear during the month of April. This campaign encourages people to light up their homes and communities with blue lights, in order to promote awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). ASD is a developmental disorder that currently affects 1 of every 68 children, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Read More
Summer Reading for the Win!
Summer Reading 2016 at libraries across the Marine Corps will be a celebration of sports and achievement with the theme: Read – For the Win!
Read More
Your (Energy) Action is Required
Halloween candy is filling the stores and your favorite spooky movies are on TV – you know it’s almost October, but did you know it’s also almost National Energy Action Month?
Read More
Security and Privacy Settings in LinkedIn
As with all social media platforms, your security and privacy on LinkedIn are important considerations. LinkedIn has many different security and privacy settings that can help protect your information. The 16 most important are:
Read More
Marines, Don't Make These Common Resume Mistakes
Your resume is often the first impression you will make on an organization, yet recruiters usually don’t spend more than a few seconds reading it. It’s important to communicate your experience as quickly and clearly as possible. Think of it as your extended elevator pitch. Make it easy for the reader to find your qualifications and clearly see how you can contribute to their organization.
Read More
Study Dispels Myths Surrounding Exceptional Family Member Program
The Marine Corps Operational Analysis Division commenced a study in March 2016 to learn whether Marines with family members enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) are disadvantaged or limited in their careers. That study was completed in December 2016 with results some Marines may find interesting.
Read More
4 Tips for Writing Your Federal Resume
When it comes to finding a job, you probably already know that you should tailor to your resume to the job announcement. But did you know that federal positions require a completely different style of resume? Unlike a private sector resume, a federal resume is typically several pages long and includes a high level of detail. Here are our top tips for crafting a federal resume that is sure to get you noticed for all the right reasons.
Read More
New Year, New Savings! Cut Your Home Energy Costs
The New Year is a time for positive changes, from committing to daily running to reading a new book each month, but what about your energy habits? Make 2017 the year to challenge yourself to become more energy efficient – reducing not only the amount of energy you might waste, but also your hard-earned cash. After all, did you know the average U.S. family spends $2,000 each year on home energy costs?
Read More
Protect What You've Earned: Know the Signs of Alcohol Misuse
The Commandant has challenged Marines and families to redefine the culture of the Marine Corps concerning alcohol use to ensure you “Protect What You’ve Earned”; but it can be challenging to determine if you or a loved one has a problem with alcohol.
Read More
Marine Corps Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Wins DOD Award
Congratulations to Mrs. Jacqueline Maxwell for her selection as the Marine Corps Exceptional Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) of the Year award!
Read More
How Will You Support Red Ribbon Week?
Millions of people will gather to raise awareness regarding the need for alcohol, tobacco and other drug and violence prevention, early intervention, and treatment services during Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23-31, 2016.
Read More
Enrollment in EFMP Allows Marines to Carry on
The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a Department of Defense mandatory enrollment program for military family members who have special medical and/or educational requirements. The program is designed to help coordinate Permanent Change of Station (PCS) assignments to locations where family members with a diagnosed medical or educational need will have access to required care.
Read More
Maintain Your Skills Through Volunteering!
Did you know that volunteering is the perfect opportunity to develop new skills or maintain your current skill set? Practically all volunteer work requires you to develop the central skills of team-work, communication and relationship-building, all of which are essential in the job market. Demonstrating that you’ve developed these skills in the volunteer sector can increase your appeal to prospective employers.
Read More
Ten Things To Do When Applying to a College or University
Preparation begins with a conversation. Marine Corps Education Service Officers and Education Service Specialists at Voluntary Education are trained to guide you toward educational opportunities that fit your skill sets and meet your ambitions.
Read More
What's In Your Cabinets?
AddThis Sharing Buttons Share to FacebookShare to TwitterShare to EmailShare to More1 GO BACK It’s that time of year, winter blues are being swept away, temperatures are rising, and spring cleaning is in full effect. Do you participate in spring cleaning?
Read More
10 Things You Didn't Know Military OneSource Offered
When you think of Military OneSource, you probably think of non-medical counseling services or of a place to find information about a variety of military life topics. But that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Military OneSource offers one-on-one support to help you navigate any challenge military life may bring your way. Here are just a few of the ways a Military OneSource consultant can help you.
Read More
Why You Should Customize Your LinkedIn Profile URL
We’ve all heard that adage, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” So if a customized URL for your LinkedIn public profile functions exactly the same way as the default URL, why change it?
Read More
Share Your Marine Corps Knowledge as a L.I.N.K.S. Mentor
There have probably been many times when you’ve thought, “knowing what I know now, I would have done so many things differently.”
Read More
Key Sections of Your LinkedIn Profile
Beginner. Intermediate. Expert. All-star. Which do you want to be? When building your LinkedIn profile, consider the following key sections
Read More
Navigating PCS: How to Help Your Child Through the "New Kid" Stage
If there is one thing you can count on in the Marine Corps, it’s getting Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. While PCS’ing can be exciting, it also takes a lot of time and energy. It can be a very emotional experience, especially for kids, regardless of their age. No matter how many times your family has PCS’d, each time is different, and each family member reacts in his or her own way.
Read More
Community Counseling: How Do You Measure Progress?
When you’re not feeling well you get your temperature, your blood pressure, and your pulse checked. You know you’re getting better when these levels return to normal. Do you ever wonder how you can measure the progress you are making when you go for counseling at the Community Counseling Program (CCP) on your installation?
Read More
What Makes a LinkedIn Summary Stellar?
What is a LinkedIn summary and why should you have one? You need to ensure you include a summary on your profile because it is one of the three key components that make your first impression on LinkedIn.
Read More
Breaking Up Can Be A Good Thing
Quitting tobacco is hard. You may have tried quitting in the past or there may be a part of you that has thought about quitting for some time now. Still, there is nothing easy about giving up something that is part of your everyday life. Don’t let the barriers below stop you from gaining the benefits from quitting tobacco for good.
Read More
What are LinkedIn Groups for?
So you’ve heard about LinkedIn and how it’s the largest social media platform for professional networking with over 400 million users. You’ve probably also heard of “groups” on LinkedIn, but maybe you’re not quite sure what they are or how they can benefit you.
Read More
Impact of Tobacco Use on Pet Health
Research shows just how dangerous second and third hand smoke is to the people around smokers, but what about the animals who live with us? Second hand smoke is defined as environmental tobacco smoke that is inhaled involuntarily or passively by someone who is not smoking, including pets. Third hand smoke is the residue that remains on skin, fur, clothing, furniture, etc., even after the air has cleared.
Read More
How the Election Can Teach You to Manage Stress
Servicemembers put much of their time, energy, and spirit into their jobs. That sacrifice undoubtedly leads to an interest in who leads the country and what their plans are for the military. It would be naïve to think that talk of budgets and the military doesn’t trigger various emotions. In the midst of an election, servicemembers with stress injuries can offer feedback to fellow servicemembers who may have difficulty dealing with their frustrations.
Read More
Marriage is Easy, Especially Marriage in the Marine Corps – Said No-One Ever!
The challenges of a military lifestyle can place many demands on Marines and their families, and sometimes the expectations we create in our marriage or life just are not met.
Read More
You Can Make the Most of Your Admissions Process with LSP
Congratulations to Sgt Muhammad Ghafoor who was recently offered acceptance to two universities through the Marine Corps Leader Scholar Program (LSP). Ghafoor is a Marine in Okinawa, Japan.
Read More
Commissaries Debut Nutrition Guide Program
Is getting healthier on your to-do list for 2017? Then the commissary’s new Nutrition Guide Program (NGP) is just the thing you need to help you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle.
Read More
How Social Media is Helping the Marine Corps Prevent Sexual Assault
Over the past few years the Marine Corps has taken a new approach to preventing sexual assault. In an effort to reach Marines where they spend most of their time, leaders throughout the Corps have taken to social media to educate Marines on the facts of consent and sexual assault. BGen David A. Ottignon, Commanding General of 1st Marine Logistics Group, recently spoke with the Headquarters Marine Corps SAPR team to talk about his command’s active social media presence when it comes to SAPR.
Read More
Pokemon Go: How to Catch Them All Safely
It’s time for a few guidelines, gamers.
Read More
Marines Take Home the Title of Ultimate HITT Athlete
The 2nd Annual HITT Championship took place aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, August 15 through 18.
Read More
September is National Recovery Month
This month we observe National Recovery Month, a time of celebration for those on the journey to recovery. The theme for this year is “Join the Voices for Recovery: Our Families, Our Stories, Our Recovery!” Substance misuse disorders and/or other mental health disorders adversely affect communities nationwide; however, through support and commitment, those suffering from these disorders can achieve healthy lifestyles, lead rewarding lives, and successfully recover.
Read More
6 Tips for Staying Safe on the Water
For many people, summer is a wonderful time for fun in the sun. Water destinations like beaches, pools, lakes, and rivers, provide an environment that appeal to all ages. These are ideal places for family gatherings and celebrations, which sometimes include drinking alcoholic beverages. This summer, “Protect What You’ve Earned,” by practicing these 6 safety tips:
Read More
Is Smoking Ruining Your Relationship?
I’ve been dating this Marine for a few years now. We do all sorts of fun stuff like miniature golf tournaments, scenic rides along the evacuation/tsunami routes, poker runs in his “racing Mustang”, and pool-time at the local casino. We have a blast when we’re together and it feels like time slows down – just like in those cheesy movies at the base theater. Is it that elusive “L” word we all secretly long for? I think so. I haven’t told him yet. Why? Well here’s the issue – he’s a smoker.
Read More
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This month the Marine Corps will highlight prevention efforts, promote resources and support services, and engage Marines and families in an awareness campaign that will promote community connectedness and belonging. This is one month of a year-round effort to address the issue of suicide in the Marine Corps.
Read More
Research the Organization Prior to Your Interview
You’ve heard that you need research the company before you have a job interview, but perhaps you’re not quite sure on why.
Read More
It's Peak College Application Time...Tackling the Common App!
Did you know that many colleges and universities require applicants to use the Common Application (Common App) when applying to schools for the upcoming 2018-2019 academic year?
Read More
How to Select the Skills that Appear on Your LinkedIn Profile
Ok, so you’ve heard that it’s important to include skills on your LinkedIn profile. Extremely important. As in profile views for LinkedIn members that list skills on their profiles are four times higher than views for profiles that do not list skills on their profiles.
Read More
Top 5 Safety Tips for Your Best 4th of July
Independence Day is almost here! As you hop in the pool, start up the grill, and celebrate America, consider some of these safety tips from the American Red Cross.
Read More
What Causes Marines to Start Using Tobacco?
When you entered bootcamp you were tobacco-free. Do you remember what led you to start using tobacco regularly? Over 79% of Active-duty Marines who use tobacco report that they use it to calm down, relax, or relieve stress, but there is a little more to the story.
Read More
Happy Birthday Marine: History of the Marine Corps Ball
The annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball is a celebration of Marine Corps history and traditions. It represents where the Marine Corps started and where it is now; while giving us a glimpse of the past, present and future. Throughout the world on 10 November, Marines celebrate the birth of their Corps -- the most loyal, feared, revered, and professional fighting force the world has ever known.
Read More
Stressed about Moving? There's no need to PCS alone!
Are you moving to a new duty station this summer? Your Information and Referral (I&R;) Specialist, located in Marine and Family Programs, can provide relocation assistance and valuable resources that will help you and your family move with ease.
Read More
Emergency Preparedness for Exceptional Families
How prepared are you and your family for an unexpected emergency? Natural and man-made disasters can affect anyone. Could your family endure the hardships of a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake, tornado, winter weather, or flash flood? What is your family plan in the event of community violence or terrorism? The most important preventative factor with all disasters is to STAY PREPARED!
Read More
Get Started Writing Your Resume Today!
Never written a resume before? Don’t sweat it. Sure, it seems daunting if you are staring at a blank computer screen, but it won’t be blank for long!
Read More
Preparing Your Marine Family for a Local Emergency
Are you aware of what type of natural disaster is most likely to happen in your area? Don’t wait until a natural disaster occurs to start getting ready. As a Marine Corps family, being ready for anything is essential in order to ensure those around you are safe. It is important that the entire family is informed and that all precautions are taken before an event occurs.
Read More
2017 USMC Sports Hall of Fame: Clifford Battles
Clifford Battles was born on 1 May 1910, in Akron, Ohio. Upon graduation of High School, Battles attended West Virginia Wesleyan College. During college he played football, baseball, basketball, tennis, and ran track. While at West Virginia Wesleyan College he received 15 letters in five different sports, but oddly enough was never named to in All American team in any of them. Battles however, excelled at football.
Read More
Pets and Mental Health Wellness
What is wellness? If we’re well, it can mean we’re thriving; in good form; or fighting fit, emotionally, psychologically, and physically. Mental health wellness depends on many factors. One of them is pets, who contribute a lot to our emotional fitness.
Read More
2017 USMC Sports Hall of Fame: Johnnie "Dusty" B. Baker
Johnnie B. "Dusty" Baker was born in Riverside, California on June 15, 1949. Baker attended the Del Campo High School in Carmichael, Calif., where he competed in baseball, basketball, football, and track. In 1967, the Atlanta Braves drafted Baker where he began his baseball career as an outfielder.
Read More
Thank You, Marine Corps Volunteers!
In 1974, National Volunteer Appreciation week was established in an effort to ensure volunteers were shown appreciation for all of their contributions.
Read More
College is Expensive! Tips for Marines to Finance Their Education
According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the U.S. Department of Education, there are currently more than 40 million student loan borrowers in the United States with over $1.1 trillion in outstanding debt, surpassing credit card debt.
Read More
Beating the Boot Camp Blues
Marine Spouse 101: A new spouse series that highlights the challenges and adventures of a soon-to-be Marine spouse. Follow her story as she begins her Marine Corps journey.
Read More
Mid-Deployment Self Care - Taking Time for YOU
The Homefront can become overwhelming and stressful while your Marine is deployed. Oftentimes, taking care of yourself gets put on the back burner due to the many demands of daily life. During that midway point, it is normal to feel like time is standing still and the day of your Marine’s return is too far away to count down. It’s okay to give yourself permission to take care of “you” in order to better take care of others
Read More
Retired Marine Corps Dad Honored for Volunteer Service
The National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) 15th annual Youth Sports Congress recognized professionals and U.S. military bases worldwide in November 2016 in Orlando, Fla.
Read More
How Tootsie Rolls Accidentally Saved Marines During War
Have you ever wondered why Tootsie Rolls hold significance with the Marine Corps? During the Korean War, the First Marine Division met the enemy at Chosin mountain reservoir in subfreezing temperatures.
Read More
Take the Stress Out of Life With These Simple Hacks
Are you tired of the daily grind? You do not have to let stress and negative thoughts dominate your life. Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed or that you can’t possibly get through another challenging day, but you can. The trick is called mindfulness.
Read More
Seasonal Affective Disorder: How to Stay Motivated All Year Long
Why do people get depressed during the winter? Odds are you haven’t heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that is associated with the change in seasons. The most common type of SAD, winter onset, usually begins with the long nights and short days of nature's coldest season. Some have referred to it as the “winter blues.” It occurs about the same time every year and may be related to changes in the amount of daylight a person is exposed to.
Read More
Blood Alcohol Content (BAC): What's the Big Deal?
What exactly is blood alcohol content (BAC) and what does it have to do with me? BAC is the concentration of alcohol in the blood. A breathalyzer device measures the content of alcohol in the blood with a number system (a 0.000 reading indicates there is no alcohol present; any number beyond that identifies the presence of alcohol).
Read More
Dip Into Something Else
Dip, a form of smokeless tobacco, may seem like a healthier alternative to smoking but do you know what impact products like spit/chew tobacco or snuff/dip can have on you? Let’s take a look at a few things that may make you think twice about putting that pinch of dip in your mouth.
Read More
How Tobacco Use Affects Your Capabilities as a Marine
You’ve probably heard that tobacco is harmful to your health, but have you heard that tobacco can affect your capabilities as a Marine? Below are just a few things Marines may experience as a result of tobacco use:
Read More
Basic Competencies
Beginning a job search and trying to figure out your basic competencies? Let’s start off by talking about what competencies are and why you need to identify and successfully communicate them during your job search.
Read More
Boingo Broadband Sponsors SMP Day of Service Marine Corps Wide
Boingo is proud to sponsor the 2017 Single Marine Program (SMP) “Day of Service” events Marine Corps wide, providing financial and material support to over 30 service projects across 23 bases in the U.S. and Japan. Be on the lookout for Boingo at select volunteer events and enjoy free snacks and beverages.
Read More
Keep Your Marriage Safe from Social Media
Social media is a great way to keep in contact with your long distance friends and family, but it can quickly take your attention away from your relationships closest to home. Here are some ways to uphold a healthy relationship while maintaining your social media presence:
Read More
Marine Spouse 101: How "Semper Fi" Saved Our Relationship
The Marine Corps motto Semper Fi, or “Always Faithful", was what my fiancé signed all his letters with. For us, it became a promise about career, country and family – not just a slogan.
Read More
Get Paid To Quit Tobacco
Did you know that a pack a day smoker spends nearly $50 a week on cigarettes? That’s over $2200 a year on cigarettes
Read More
Exceptional Family Member Program Helps Marine Balance Career and Family
Marines who have a family member with special medical or educational needs face very real challenges in their effort to balance continuity of care for their family member, while pursuing professional requirements and career opportunities for themselves.
Read More
AMP-IT: Time to Hit the Pool
On July 1st the Marine Corps new fitness rules were announced in the Marine Administrative Message (MARADMIN) 022/16. The MARADMIN was signed by Commandant Gen. Robert Neller, who has called for an overhaul of the Marine Corps programs in Combat Fitness, Physical Fitness Test, and annual requirements.
Read More
Start College Off Right with the Leadership Scholar Program
The transition from military life to higher education can be a daunting experience for some. That is where the Leadership Scholar Program (LSP) comes in. The LSP, along with installation Education Centers, works with Marines on a daily basis to guide them through the college admission process.
Read More
Why Quit Tobacco During the Great American Smoke Out?
The first step in quitting tobacco is thinking about it. If you think about quitting tobacco someday, whether it’s tomorrow or in five years, then you can develop the intention of changing your behavior.
Read More
Period of PURPLE Crying
Bringing home a newborn baby is both a wonderful and stressful event. A caregiver can be left feeling helpless and frustrated if their newborn is crying and they are unable to figure out why.
Read More
9 Facts about Teen Smoking
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States and 90% of tobacco users began using before the age of 19.
Read More
Enroll Your Child in Youth Sports Today
Why wait until summer to take advantage of the bright sunny days and warm evenings when your child can sign up for Youth Sports today? That’s what several Marine Corps families have already done. Sports boost self-esteem and teach your child to be confident on and off the field.
Read More
Should I Consider Community College?
The practice of completing undergraduate studies (a bachelor’s degree) by attending a community college then transferring to a local college or university to complete the final two years is called the “feeder school trend.”
Read More
Why You Should Customize Your LinkedIn Profile URL
We’ve all heard that adage, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” So if a customized URL for your LinkedIn public profile functions exactly the same way as the default URL, why change it?
Read More
How to Keep Your Kids Away From the "Rough" Stuff
The young Marine creeps along the edge of the jungle, peering into the dark undergrowth for a sign, a hint, anything that would help him locate his quarry.
Read More
Everything You Need to Know About the Marine For Life Network
What can the Marine For Life Network do for me?
Read More
Keeping Pets Safe from Violence in the Home
For many people, pets are important members of the family and may even be thought of as a “four-legged child” or “fur baby.” Pets can provide a sense of comfort, belonging, and safety.
Read More
Healthy Boundaries
Navigating a relationship can be tough! People come into relationships with different expectations. Sometimes one partner’s vision of what he or she wants in the relationship does not match what the other partner wants. When differences arise, don’t be afraid to talk about your concerns. Open communication is key to a healthy relationship.
Read More
5 Common Myths of Alcohol Misuse
Have you ever questioned the drinking habits of someone close to you, and that person refused to discuss the subject? Here are five common statements that you may hear when someone is minimizing their alcohol misuse. Talking about these statements with the individual can be a starting point to address concerns about the misuse of alcohol.
Read More
Spring Safety Tips for Parents
Whether your children participate in programs or enjoy playing outdoors, these spring safety tips will benefit parents everywhere.
Read More
Building Your Network as a Marine Spouse
Many Marine spouses are experts at networking, but often these networks are cultivated around children, deployment support, PCSing, social groups, or religious activities.
Read More
Marine Spouse: Think Entrepreneurship Might Be For You?
Many Marine spouses find that the most rewarding and portable career for them is starting and running their own business. If you’re thinking about entrepreneurship, check out the following resources:
Read More
How Can a Marine Spouse Finance Their Education?
The cost of college can be significant, but there are many options available to you as a Marine spouse to help you finance your education.
Read More
Fireworks and PTSD: How to Raise Awareness
When you think about Independence Day, you often think about delicious food, family, and fireworks that light up the night sky. However, for some, fireworks can be a source of stress, especially for those Veterans who suffer from PTSD. The loud noises can sometimes be a trigger. Although not every individual who lives with PTSD may be affected, many Veterans are stepping up to raise awareness of those who might be.
Read More
How to Get a Perfect Body Without Banned Substances
Do you want to achieve the perfect body? You don’t need to use bodybuilding supplements, or purchase a banned substance from the internet or some guy at the gym to reach your goal. When you start working out, it’s natural to want to see results quickly, but when you don’t see them right away it’s easy to get discouraged and resort to substances such as human growth hormones (HGH).
Read More
LinkedIn
LinkedIn Resources
Read More
How to Emotionally Prepare for Military Transitions
Transition is almost synonymous with the Marine Corps way of life. We should all be Semper Gumby, right? While transitions are not unique to the military, the types, the frequency, and even brevity of transitions are unique. Most of us can probably relate to standing in the middle of our home, which is now filled with boxes and strangers packing up all of our memories, and just hoping that everything makes it, undamaged, to its final destination, wherever that may be.
Read More
Marine Spouse 101: The Military Significant Other Reading List - from an English Major
What do you read when you finish American Sniper? Sometimes it’s good to take a break from non-fiction, as this reading list of new and old classics may show you. It’s perfect for the Military Significant Other looking to find something other than memoirs written by military spouses. With a mix of foreign and domestic authors, you’re sure to find something to love.
Read More
Summer Fun During Deployment
School is almost out and it’s time to start planning some summer fun with the family and kids! Even if your Marine is deployed, planning activities throughout summer will help the kids and you stay active and busy. The summer months are perfect for having fun and keeping the family thriving while waiting for your Marine to return. Below are a few suggestions to incorporate into your summer schedule:
Read More
How Leaders Can Take Care of Your Marines through the Marine Intercept Program
The Marine Intercept Program (MIP) is an outreach program offering ongoing support to Marines and attached Sailors who have had suicide ideations (SI) or suicide attempts (SA). Licensed installation Community Counseling Program (CCP) counselors provide follow-up contact, care coordination, and suicide risk assessment to Marines and attached Sailors. The CCP MIP counselors will make a series of caring contacts for 90 days post SI or SA. Research indicates that the risk for a repeat suicide-related event or death by suicide is highest during the first 90 days after the ideation or attempt.
Read More
How a Call to the Marine for Life Network Changed this Marine's Life
Success does not usually happen overnight, but it does happen with a bit of determination.
Read More
From Rifles to Light Sabers: Actor Adam Driver Discusses His Time in the Marine Corps
For many, serving with the Marine Corps offers a sense of community among a group of diverse individuals with common goals, while for others it affords an unparalleled opportunity to serve one’s country. It was both for former Marine LCpl Adam Driver.
Read More
Tips for Traveling with Children
Spring is just around the corner. For many families spring is a time for traveling. Although traveling by yourself can be stressful, traveling with small children can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help keep your journeys as stress free as possible.
Read More
MCCS Libraries Pave the Way for Innovation in the Marine Corps
Do you have what it takes to be an innovator? Marine Corps Capt. Justin Carrasco does and he dreams of the opportunity to test his new prototype soon.
Read More
Quitting Tobacco Can Land You a Job
If you’re looking to land a job after the Marine Corps, then you better start thinking about quitting tobacco. Many people are aware of the health effects of tobacco use. Things like lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), mouth or throat cancer, and second-hand smoke are just some of the topics that can come up during a quick internet search. But did you know tobacco use can impact your ability to get a job?
Read More
Marine Spouse 101: How to Send the Perfect Care Package
If you and your Marine have made it through his or her first PCS (Permanent Change of Station), maybe you’re looking for ways to celebrate without breaking the bank account. One way to send a little love is by putting together a care package, regardless of where your Marine is stationed. While usually associated with deployments, care packages can offer a little taste of home while your Marine makes the transition to on-base living. Close out of that Pinterest tab and follow along for instructions on sending a care package that is more than pin worthy.
Read More
LinkedIn Courses Launch Marine Corps-wide!
Knowing how to network effectively with social media is a necessity in the 21st century civilian job search. To support Marines and their families, two new courses will be available soon at your installation:
Read More
Single Marines Clean Up Debris on Iwo Jima
Service members at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni had the unique opportunity to clean up their community by picking up waste on the beaches of Iwo Jima.
Read More
Triathlon Training – "It's a Community"
Each year the Marine Corps Triathlon Training Team holds a camp to help develop and train Marine Corps athletes for upcoming competitions that lead up to the team competing at the Armed Forces Championship. During a four day Triathlon Training Camp, Marines tested muscular and cardiovascular endurance that required competitors to complete in five miles of swimming, 90 miles of cycling and 28 miles of running from March 16 - 20, 2017, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.
Read More
2017 USMC Sports Hall of Fame: John Arthur Banaszak
John Arthur Banaszak was born in Cleveland, Ohio on August 24, 1950. He developed a passion for sports at an early age that lead him to participate in multiple sports during his high school career. A 1968 graduate of Holy Name High School, John lettered in the sports of track and field, basketball, and football. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.
Read More
13 Tips for a Fantastic LinkedIn Profile
A sparse LinkedIn profile doesn’t really say much about you and doesn’t make you stand out. A detailed LinkedIn profile is far more compelling, as it allows you to showcase your skills and accomplishments. It also takes time and creativity, so don’t expect to knock it out in 30 minutes or less.
Read More
What is Your Legacy?
After you leave your unit or duty station, what legacy do you want to leave? How do you want to be remembered?
Read More
You Should Ask Questions During an Interview Too!
The interview process should be a two way street. While it is important to market yourself to a potential employer, an interview is not just about whether you’re a good fit for the role and the organization. It is equally important to determine whether the potential employer is a good fit for you.
Read More
All-Marine Wrestling Team Go to Olympic Trials
If you’re trying to decide between joining the military and pursuing a career in amateur sports, you may be able to do both. The Marine Corps has teams that if you qualify for will become your job for the Marine Corps during that particular sports season.
Read More
October is Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness Month
Every October the Marine Corps shines a spotlight on a serious and preventable public health issue, domestic violence. Domestic violence isn’t something that happens only to people we see on television or on the news.
Read More
Just an App Away...
According to Statista, the number of mobile phone users in the world is expected to pass the five billion mark by 2019. The Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) is keeping up with the modern world with its newest and free mobile application, or app, called “Liberty Okinawa.” The Liberty app includes information about different places in Okinawa, Japan.
Read More
Are You the Ultimate HITT Athlete?
You are invited back to the Third Annual 2017 High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Championship from 28-31 August, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.
Read More
MCCS Recognizes Food and Hospitality Activity Excellence
The Food and Hospitality Excellence Award Program was established by Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) to recognize those food and hospitality activities that exceeded the highest level of standards of operational excellence and service to Marines.
Read More
Why LinkedIn is for you, Marine Spouse!
Are you thinking about creating a LinkedIn profile but aren’t sure if it’s the right career move for you as a Marine spouse? Here are the top five reasons why you should join LinkedIn today.
Read More
Four Reasons to Play Intramural Sports
Intramural sports offer all Marines, regardless of skill or experience, an opportunity to participate in a number of organized sports.
Read More
Understanding Prescription Drug Abuse
What is Prescription Drug Abuse? The Department of Defense (DOD) defines prescription drug abuse as the use of a medication without a prescription, in a way other than as prescribed, or for the experience or feelings elicited. The misuse of prescription drugs is always high-risk and carries serious consequences for people choosing to participate in it.
Read More
Combat Video Game Addictions
Video games have evolved leaps and bounds since the days of Frogger and Pac Man. Game play is more involved, characters are more lifelike, and some scenes feel like you are watching a movie.
Read More
What Can the Unit Energy Manager Program Do for You?
AddThis Sharing Buttons Share to FacebookShare to TwitterShare to EmailShare to More1 GO BACK You know that leaky faucet in the bathroom, or the light in your office that’s always on? They may seem like minor issues, but over time they waste energy and money – and if those same leaks and malfunctions happened in the field, they would waste essential fuel for Marines.
Read More
Raising Awareness One Event at a Time: SAAPM Wrap-Up
From table displays to color races, from subject matter expert panels to softball games, April’s Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month (SAAPM) was observed Corps-wide. Pictured here are just a few highlights.
Read More
Marines Save the Day by Playing Pokemon Go
When Javier Soch and Seth Ortega set out to play Pokemon Go they were expecting to catch a few monsters, not a man suspected of attempted murder.
Read More
Check Out an Apprenticeship
AddThis Sharing ButtonsShare to FacebookShare to TwitterShare to EmailShare to More11 GO BACK Looking for ciivilian job experience while you're still active duty? Check out USMAP to further your career goals. The United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) is a formal military training program that provides active duty Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard service members the opportunity to improve their job skills and to complete their civilian apprenticeship requirements while on active duty.
Read More
USMC Veteran First Honoree of MISSION: THANK YOU Tour
Three years ago, a man and his dog embarked on an important mission: visit every Harley-Davidson dealership in the lower 48 states in order to raise money and awareness for the military and their families. Adam Sandoval and his chihuahua, Scooter, succeeded in their goal, raising over $300,000 for veterans suffering from PTSD and other war-related injuries.
Read More
Medical Marijuana
The National Institute on Drug Abuse defines medical marijuana as using the whole, unprocessed marijuana plant or its basic extracts to treat symptoms of illness and other conditions. Medical marijuana is NOT authorized for use by military members.
Read More
How to EAS Successfully as a Marine
Confused about what path you should take after you EAS? Is it because you’re already living the dream and you can’t imagine doing anything else? Think about what specifically makes your job in the Marine Corps your dream job and consider jobs in the private sector that are similar. Here are our top tips for finding your dream post-Marine Corps career.
Read More
Ready and Resilient in the Rack!
Resilience is the ability to cope with stress and crisis and then bounce back quickly. Today more than ever, Marines need to be resilient as we take on new responsibilities, learn new skills, and do more with less. The truth is we have stress in both our personal and professional lives, and it is important to remember that this is completely normal. In fact, a small amount of pressure is motivating, as it helps us strive for excellence, create and achieve goals, and reach our potential as individuals and teams.
Read More
Preventing Summer Learning Loss
Important skills learned over the school year can regress over the summer. Here are a few strategies to minimize summer learning loss.
Read More
What You Need to Know About Mixing Medication and Alcohol
The summer cookout season is upon us. Burgers are on the grill, drinks are in hand, and with those new activities comes a new set of considerations. Almost half of American adults who drink also use medications that can interact dangerously with alcohol, according to a recent study by Dr. Rosalind Breslow and her colleagues at the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). The U.S. Deptartment of Health and Human services also reports that as of 2011, alcohol and medication interactions are responsible for about a quarter of all emergency room admissions in the United States.
Read More
Do You Want to Improve Your Health? Volunteer!
Volunteering appears to have an amazing ability to not only improve the health and well-being of those that are on the receiving end, but to also have a positive effect on the volunteer. A quick search of the web will reveal almost twenty million articles on how volunteering or doing good can benefit someone mentally, physically and emotionally. Multiple studies show that there are six main areas of life that volunteering can impact and all six areas show a positive increase! If physical health, life satisfaction, sense of control, happiness, level of depression and self-esteem are important to you, here’s a way to see a positive increase…Volunteer!
Read More
Early Childhood Risk and Protective Factors for Later Drug Use
Research in a recent article by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, (NIDA) revealed while substance use generally begins during the adolescent years, there are known biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that contribute to the risk that begin accumulating as early as the (prenatal through age 8) period. This creates opportunities to intervene very early in an individual’s life and thereby prevent substance use disorders—and, along with them, a range of related behavioral problems—long before they would normally manifest themselves.
Read More
Training Tips from Top Marine Corps Athletes
The Marine Corps finest athletes will compete in the Second Annual High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Athlete Championship in California this month.
Read More
Top Tips for Surviving Military Moving Season
You have received orders to re-locate and need to set-up a move. Wondering what to do next? The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is the DoD one-stop source for managing personal property moves.
Read More
Did You Know About the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance Accelerated Benefit Option?
For more than 100 years, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has offered life and disability insurance to active Servicemembers and Veterans. Programs offered by the VA have continued to change and improve over the years and have grown to insure more than 6 million members.
Read More
7 Questions L.I.N.K.S. Will Answer For the New Marine Spouse
When Madison Wetmore went on a first date to the Marine Corps Ball, she had no idea that she would end up marrying 2nd Lt. Garrison Wetmore a couple years later. As a spouse new to the Corps and only 22 years of age, she was thrust into a community and culture foreign to her, which led to endless questions from “Does my husband’s rank apply to me?” to “How should I prepare for his upcoming deployments?”
Read More
First Female Infantry Marines are Headed to Camp Lejeune
On January 5, 2017, three Marines became the first females to join the 1st Infantry Battalion, 8th Marines with the Second Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
Read More
5 Ways to Survive Accidental Immersion into Cold Water
Even if you don't spend a lot of time boating or fishing you still need to be prepared for an accidental immersion into cold water. When you first hit the water you may be in shock. It's important to regain composure as quickly as possible so you are able to assess your surroundings and formulate a plan to reach safety.
Read More
Foundational Movements for the HITT Athlete
The goal of incorporating foundational movements into a tactical fitness program is to emphasize functional movements that will transfer the fitness gained from exercise into improved durability and performance. Foundational movement techniques engage the body as a single coordinated system, complement the movements the body performs on the job and in life, and help to build optimal and usable strength, power, mobility and durability. Movement patterns fundamental to most activities can be re-created, loaded, unloaded and trained through repetition on the multiple modalities to enhance execution in daily routines.
Read More
Servicemembers Group Life Insurance is Going Digital
When was the last time you updated your Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI)? SGLI is a program that provides low-cost term life insurance coverage to eligible Marines.
Read More
Everything You Need to Know About Operation Tobacco-Free Marine
The Marine Corps always leads the way in innovative thinking and performance. With this in mind, the Operation Tobacco-Free Marine (OTFM) Tobacco Cessation Program was developed to provide the Marine Corps community with the first of its kind, evidence-based tools to help tobacco users quit successfully. The standardized nature of the program is intended to provide Marines and families consistent health education programming and continuity of care as they attempt to quit tobacco; while also dealing with the challenges of military life. OTFM consists of a curriculum, training initiative, and an awareness campaign.
Read More
A Healthier You Through Volunteering
Health goes beyond diet and exercise. Our mental health is also an important part of our overall health. So how can we improve our mental health?
Read More
Heat Up Your Holiday Joy
It’s that time of the year again – chilly days coupled with hot chocolate, reunions with loved ones, and warm season’s greetings. The holiday season is filled with happiness, but also with high energy costs that can steal your holiday joy. Along with the money spent buying the perfect gift, high heating costs can really put a strain on your budget.
Read More
Food for Thought: What to Know About Cooking with Alcohol
What is the secret ingredient that makes your favorite dish so flavorful? For some it is a special seasoning. For others it might be alcohol. Many believe cooking with alcohol provides benefits such as improved flavors and tenderness in dishes. Due to alcohol’s chemical make-up, alcohol quickly connects the aroma of food to the smell receptors in your nose. Cooking with alcohol enhances the aromas associated with the food as it cooks, as well as the flavor while you’re actually eating it. Your sense of taste and smell work together to enrich your perception of the food’s flavor.
Read More
Is the Marine Corps Prepared for Hurricane Matthew?
Emergencies can happen at any time. Hurricane Matthew, which made landfall in the United States on Friday morning on Florida's east coast, is just one reason to take action to prepare, now and throughout the year, for the types of emergencies that can affect us where we live and work. In the Marine Corps preparedness is essential to ensure the readiness of our deployable forces.
Read More
Helping Military Service Members Vote by Mail
Helping military service members around the world participate in the U.S. electoral process by voting this election season is a priority for the U.S. Postal Service.
Read More
Could You Quit Tobacco for 24 Hours?
The first step in quitting tobacco is thinking about quitting. If you don’t have it in your mind that you’d like to quit someday, whether it’s tomorrow or in five years, then there is no intention of changing your behavior. The Great American Smoke Out is an event started by the American Cancer Society to help motivate people to quit tobacco, even for just 24 hours.
Read More
Transition and a Career Beyond the Call of Duty
There typically is a learning curve at the start of something new, whether it be a new job, the purchase of a new home, a new baby, or a change of status. For roughly 30,000 Marines who transition each year from the Marine Corps to a new status as a Veteran Marine some are not ready for change.
Read More
MAPIT? UMAPIT? MAP WHAT?
MAPIT stands for Marine Awareness and Prevention Integrated Training. But what is it? MAPIT is a tiered initiative which intends to improve the total fitness of all Marines, thereby improving mission readiness. MAPIT consists of tailored curricula designed to proactively manage challenging situations and improve your ability to address behavioral health issues, such as substance abuse, suicide, family advocacy, and combat and operational stress, before they become unmanageable.
Read More
Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
The Deputy Commandant of the United States Marine Corps for Manpower and Reserve Affairs LtGen. Mark A. Brilakis, will host the 2017 United States Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony at 6 p.m., July 12, 2017, at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, Va.
Read More
Tobacco and Stress: Not a Winning Combination
Most people understand that tobacco harms a person’s health, but many users also believe it helps them cope with stress. Nicotine is a mood altering drug, so at first tobacco may seems to help ease the effects of stress such as feelings of frustration, anger, or anxiety. This is because the nicotine in tobacco causes the brain to release a chemical called dopamine. Dopamine results in an initial sense of calm and well-being and causes your body to crave that sensation again and again. Really, this is just an illusion; while a person may feel an initial sense of calm when they use tobacco, the body is actually under increased stress. Blood pressure and heart rate increase, muscles become tense, and blood vessels constrict so less oxygen is available to the brain and body to facilitate healthy coping. The initial feelings of stress are still present, but simply masked.
Read More
Solar Energy Shines Bright for the Marine Corps
When you think of the Marine Corps, the word ‘renewable’ probably isn’t the first thing to pop into your head. However, in fiscal year 2015, Marine Corps installations consumed about 5 percent of their electricity from renewable sources – enough megawatt hours (MWH) to power more than 10,000 homes for a whole year. This electricity comes from various sources, and solar power is the most visible – looks like the sun is good for more than just a tan!
Read More
Modern Day Marine is Coming to Quantico
The world’s largest military exposition focusing on enhanced capabilities for expeditionary forces will be held at Marine Corps Base, Quantico from Sept. 27 through Sept. 29, 2016.
Read More
Teens Can Practice OPSEC Too!
Does it seem like your teenager has a better relationship with their phone or computer instead of with you? In a time where social media is so prevalent in the life of a teenager it is important that they too are aware of how they should maintain Operations Security, also known as OPSEC.
Read More
Tips to Manage PCS Stress
A PCS brings change, change, and more change. Not only will you have a new job, but you’ll be getting used to a new house and new people as well.
Read More
Your Guide to Staying 'Always Ready'
The Marine Corps is known as the 911 force of America, and we have earned this phrase because of how quickly we are able to respond to crises around the globe. But it isn’t enough just to be ready in the field. Marines also need to be ready at home. Their loved ones must be ready at any moment’s notice for any crisis response, which means Marines and families should be “always ready”.
Read More
DoD Launches Pilot Program to Improve Family Member Travel Screening
Going overseas? Military families headed to duty stations outside the continental U.S. don\'t need any additional headaches. To help out, medical representatives from the four Services have been working with the Office of Special Needs (OSN), under the Office of the Secretary of Defense, in an effort to enhance the medical travel screening process for your family.
Read More
Kick Off Your Energy Savings This Super Bowl
Are you ready for some football?! It’s that time of the year again – the Super Bowl. We’ll be gathered around the television to watch an American classic, indulging in game-day favorites like hot wings and spinach dip.
Read More
7 Reasons Why Teaching Children Kindness is Essential
Have you ever experienced or provided “random acts of kindness”? How did it make you feel? Experts have determined that showing kindness changes the brain, and that selfless acts of giving provide physical and emotional benefits needed for a well-rounded individual. This is why it is essential for children to learn kindness early on.
Read More
Tis the Season to Volunteer in the Marine Corps
One summer morning I found myself driving in the middle of the desert on a house-hunting trip for my family’s next PCS move. With my husband deployed, a volunteer from the Family Readiness team graciously offered to show me around and assist me in the hunt. I was surprised by how upbeat and knowledgeable she was about the local community. During lunch, she shared with me all the same feelings she has experienced during her move 3 months prior. She also told me of a similar encounter with a volunteer who helped her learn all the opportunities this new base offered.
Read More
Spring Activities
You, as a parent, have an enormous amount of influence on your child’s current and future development. How you interact with your child, especially when they are very young, has a large impact and sets the stage for their behavior later on.
Read More
Your Tobacco Use Could Be Making Your Dog Sick and Fat
Most people generally know that tobacco use, like smoking or dipping, is harmful to their health. But, have you ever thought about how tobacco use could affect you pets? Dogs are particularly harmed by second-hand smoke, also known as “passive smoking,” and residue left behind from cigarette butts and spit tobacco. This means that your pet could be inhaling or ingesting many of the known carcinogens and chemicals found in cigarettes and dip. Below are some of the specific health effects that dogs face when they are exposed to tobacco use:
Read More
Turn Your Marine Corps Experience Into College Credits
Are you thinking of getting a college degree? With your military training and experience you may already be part way there. The Marine Corps’ Voluntary Education (VOLED) Program provides educational services and programs that offer the Marine Corps community the opportunity to complete undergraduate and graduate degrees via both traditional and online methods through a network of regionally accredited colleges and universities.
Read More
What Is Protect What You've Earned?
PWYE is a simple decision-making framework for individual Marines and Sailors to consider what is best for them in personal behavior and individual actions, protecting rank, money, prestige, respect and admiration of family and friends; benefits of honorable service to include veteran status and the GI Bill; and all of the options in later life that come with the above. It is all about encouraging Marines and Sailors to ACT IN THEIR OWN best interest.
Read More
What are FMEAP and SECO and What Can They Do for Me, a Marine Spouse?
Your Installation Family Member Employment Assistance Program (FMEAP).
Read More
Commandant: We Never Leave a Marine Behind
Marines are America’s expeditionary force in readiness—not just in battle, but every day. We never leave a Marine behind. If you see a fellow Marine who needs help, step up and step in.
Read More
What is the Blended Retirement System?
Military retirement is changing and many Marines will have a choice to make in 2018. Included among the thousands of items in the FY 2016 National Defense Authorization Act were significant changes in the military retirement system.
Read More
Wear Denim to Combat Sexual Assault Myths
On 25 April, jeans become more than fashion: they become a statement. Around the world, people wear jeans on this “Denim Day” as a visible protest against myths that surround sexual assault.
Read More
Spouse Employment: Calculating the Cost of Working
Are you preparing to return to work after some time away from the job market? You already know you need to update your resume and prepare for interviews, but you may also want to consider the cost of returning to work.Child care and transportation costs can add up, and in some cases may be higher than the salary you are earning. Work through the simple calculations below to determine if going back to work is right for your family.
Read More
Four T ax Credits You Didn't Know You Were Entitled To
With the start of a new year and 2017 behind us, it is time to start planning to file your taxes. With the exception of those serving in combat zones or stationed outside the U.S., most Marines and their families must file taxes by the April 17 deadline.
Read More
The Next Step in Your Relationship: Finances
Finances are up toward the top of the list of decidedly unsexy topics to discuss with your partner. But, let’s face it, money is a leading source of relationship stress.
Read More
Financial Aid for the Military Student
Is your military teen considering starting college this fall? Then you need to think about completing the FAFSA. The FAFSA, or FREE Application for Federal Student Aid, can help students pay for college. FAFSA deadlines for many states are approaching quickly.
Read More
How to Pull Your Joint Services Transcript (JST)
Your Joint Services Transcript (JST) is an academically accepted document approved by the American Council on Education (ACE) to validate your military occupational experience. The Joint Services transcript also includes military course completions, descriptions of military occupations, and college level test scores. The JST is currently accepted at more than 2,300 colleges and universities.
Read More
Marines: Always Faithful, On and Off the Battlefield
Whether it's sexual assault, alcohol misuse, suicidal ideations, retaliation, or some other high-risk situation, Marines always have a duty to intervene and help each other. That's the message of the Marine Corps Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program's most recent PSA, released on 17 February 2016.
Read More
Updates from Marine Corps Postal Affairs
Changes are coming to the US Postal Service. Read on to find out the latest updates, courtesy of Marine Corps Postal Affairs.
Read More
How to Pull Your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET)
The VMET (Verification of Military Experience and Training), DD Form 2586, provides an overview of your military experience and training.
Read More
A Parent's Guide to Social Media Safety
Social media allows us to feel connected to the world, meet new people, share our favorite recipes and DIY projects, and keep up with all the latest celebrity gossip. For teenagers, social media has become a way of life and, in some cases, the primary way that teens communicate with each other. As a parent, it is imperative that you know what your child is doing on their electronic devices, and more importantly, who they are talking to.
Read More
5 Tips for Beating the Winter Blues
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------SHARE AddThis Sharing ButtonsShare to FacebookShare to TwitterShare to EmailShare to More4 GO BACK The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder. If you feel like hibernating until spring, you’re not alone. The “winter blues” are characterized by mild depression and low energy. If your mood is falling faster than the temperature, try some of these tips to boost your spirits.
Read More
Wash Away Water Waste
World Water Day is March 22nd.Think about how vital our water resources are and how much we consume – from personal use to agriculture and manufacturing, everything requires water.
Read More
Vape Myth Busting
Vapes, JUULs, and other e-cigarette products have been growing in popularity - and danger. Here are some myths about vaping that might make you think twice.
Read More
Keep Your Marriage as Strong as Your Marine
“Nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain, difficulty… I have never in my life envied a human being who led an easy life. I have envied a great many people who led difficult lives and led them well.” (Theodore Roosevelt)
Read More
For This Valentine's Day, Think Outside of the Candy Box
Tick-Tock…Valentine’s Day is this Sunday, February 14th, and if you still need a gift for your Sweetheart but have no clue what to get…read on!
Read More
Quick Guide for Deployment Readiness
The key to a successful deployment is preparation. As with any life-changing event, the more prepared your family is to deal with the adjustments that need to be made, the easier it will be to cope with changes as they occur. Preparation for a potential deployment should begin well before deployment orders are actually received. This early preparation can reduce the stress everyone feels in the weeks leading up to the service member’s departure. Here are a few tips to assist you in making sure your next deployment is a successful one.
Read More
7 Tips for Effective Face-to-Face Networking
Networking is a vital part of finding new employment opportunities as a transitioning Marine or spouse, but it can be stressful if you’ve been out of the work force for a while or are not great at small talk. The tips below will help you get over your anxiety and put your best foot forward at your next networking event.
Read More
Everything You Need to Know About Casting Your Ballot for the 2016 Election
With the 2016 election season in full swing, Marines and their families can participate in the election process whether they’re deployed, stationed here in the United States, or living at an overseas location.
Read More
10 Tips to Make Your LinkedIn Profile a Civilian Job Magnet
Professional social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, are a great way to keep in touch with colleagues, present your professional image, and conduct your job search. Here is some essential LinkedIn etiquette to keep in mind as you build your profile, cultivate your network, and search for new opportunities.
Read More
How Substance Misuse Affects Your Children
The month of April is full of holidays and national awareness events. Did you know April is also Child Abuse Prevention Month and Alcohol Awareness Month?
Read More
April is Alcohol Awareness Month
April is Alcohol Awareness Month and this year’s National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) theme is: “Talk Early, Talk Often: Parents Can Make a Difference in Teen Alcohol Use.
Read More
Energy Saving Tips from Marine Corps Leaders
Energy is vital to the Marine Corps mission— both on base and on the battlefield – and leaders are encouraging all Marines to take action through an energy leadership video series.
Read More
Everything You Need to Know About the Voluntary Education Program
Are you thinking of getting a college degree? With your military training and experience you may already be part way there. The Marine Corps’ Voluntary Education (VOLED) Program provides educational services and programs that offer the Marine Corps community the opportunity to complete undergraduate and graduate degrees via both traditional and online methods through a network of regionally accredited colleges and universities. If you are not familiar with the Voluntary Education Program, our article Turn Your Marine Corps Experience Into College Credits is a good place to start.
Read More
Leading from the Bottom Up: The 2016 SMP Leadership Symposium
This January, 112 Marines traveled from installations around the world to attend the 2016 Single Marine Program (SMP) Leadership Symposium held at Pacific View Event Center at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. The event, which is considered mission critical to support programs throughout the Marine Corps, aims to enhance quality of life, recreation, and community involvement for single Marines.
Read More
Marines Step Up and Take a Stand Against Sexual Assault
April is Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month (SAAPM), and in a special public service announcement released on April 5th on social media, Marines across the Corps show how they do their part to prevent sexual assault – not just in April, but all year long.
Read More
SAAPM is Right Around the Corner!
April is nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month or SAAPM – an annual campaign to raise public awareness about sexual assault and educate communities on how to prevent sexual violence.
Read More
10 Easy Ways to Make Exercise a Habit in 2016
Every year one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is reaching a healthy weight. One of the best ways to reach your goal weight is through exercising. No matter what age you are, you can always improve your health and well-being by becoming more active. Even just incorporating moderate activity into your life on a regular basis can reduce your risk of Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and improve your mental health, muscle strength and mood.
Read More
New Year, New Energy Saving Tips
We’ve all made resolutions to go to the gym more or eat out less. Unfortunately, many of those goals fall short. Thankfully, some resolutions are easy to stick to, will save you money, and support the Marine Corps’ Energy Ethos mission. Here are resolutions to add to your list for 2016!
Read More
After the Interview...What Next?
Every interview is an opportunity to improve your interviewing skills. One of the best ways to maximize your potential for success is to self-evaluate you performance after every interview. Ask yourself these key questions to gain insights into your interview techniques.
Read More
Marine Corps Birthday Ball: Etiquette Do's & Dont's
The Birthday Ball is one of the biggest events on the Marine Corps calendar. It is a chance to get dressed to the nines, enjoy an evening of tradition, and celebrate the history of the Corps.
Read More
For Your Peace of Mind and Safety: Expedited Transfers and MPOs
For Your Peace of Mind and Safety: Expedited Transfers and MPOs
Read More
The Ultimate Guide to Stress-Free Holiday Shopping
The holidays can be a time of increased stress, heightened expectations, and extreme temptation for those who love getting that perfect deal… especially if you’ve waited until the last minute. Marines and their families are increasingly flocking to the internet, replacing traditional holiday shopping with competitive shipping. This form of compulsive shopping, for some, increases the chemical in the brain that brings pleasure and relieves stress. However, if holiday stress can be managed, the need to compulsively shop for every good deal may be lessened.
Read More
4 Ways the Marine Corps Is Still Innovating After 240 Years
November 10th marks the 240th birthday of the Marine Corps. While the uniform, weapons and theaters of battle have changed over the last 240 years, one principle that has always remained the same is the Marine Corps commitment to addressing the unique needs of Marines and their families. As we remember the achievements of the Marine Corps on the battlefield we should also highlight the strides the Corps has made in supporting the family members of our brave men and women in uniform.
Read More
College Is Expensive! How Do I Save For My Child's Education?
There’s no doubt that college is expensive, but getting a degree doesn’t have to put you in debt. Savings, scholarships, grants, and the right school choice can all help your child finance his or her education without taking on mountains of student loan debt.
Read More
The Ultimate Guide to LifeSkills Training and Education
Did you know that the Marine Corps offers workshops on home safety, emergency preparedness, interpersonal communication, and conflict management? These are just a few of the courses offered through LifeSkills Training and Education, a collection of personal and professional skill building classes that provides Marines and family members with practical skills for successful interactions and positive outcomes at work, home, and in life. Read our infographic below to learn about the many classes LifeSkills offers.
Read More
Why You May Be Seeing Teal Pumpkins This Halloween
The pumpkins in your neighborhood may look a little different this Halloween. That’s because the Food Allergy Research & Education group (FARE) is renewing their Teal Pumpkin Project. The national campaign encourages households to give out non-food treats so that all children are able to enjoy trick-or-treating, regardless of their allergies.
Read More
4 Ways To Challenge Yourself to Save!
Participate in a 52 week money challenge
Read More
Finding a Mentor as a Marine Spouse
You know a mentor is key to advancing in your career, but as a Marine spouse where do you find a mentor to provide career guidance, advice and support?
Read More
Money Habitudes: Mind Over Money
We’ve all been there. You run to the store for a specific item and return wondering how you ended up with three bags full of purchases. A quick trip for a single item turned into an all-day spree complete with lunch and a stop for a latte. As you total the damage, you try to determine what happened and vow not to let it happen again.
Read More
How to Successfully Quit Smoking in the Corps
If you’re a smoker, quitting can be one of the most important things you ever do to preserve your health. Tobacco use is the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States, increasing your risks of lung disease, cancer and heart attacks.
Read More
Single Marine Program to Host UFC Fight Night
On 2 January 2016, the Single Marine Program hosted its annual SMP UFC Fight Night at 25 locations across the Marine Corps. The match up was UFC 195, headlined by the long-awaited welterweight title bout between Robbie Lawler and Carlos Condit.
Read More
The Sexual Assault Prevention Innovation Award Winner Did What?
What do a dance contest and military sexual assault have in common? Just ask Ms. Shirley D. Stephens, Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) for Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools (MCCSSS)—recipient of the 2015 DOD Sexual Assault Prevention Innovation Award for the Marine Corps.
Read More
Are You Ready for Some Football?
Great news! Being a football fan can be good for your emotional, mental, and social health. Evidence suggests sports fans have higher levels of well-being and general happiness with their social lives. Fans that identify with a local team have higher self-esteem and are less lonely. Sports unite people, helping to create lasting connections, and less feelings of alienation.
Read More
Ho, Ho, Huh? - Manage Holiday Spending
As we approach the holiday season, we are bombarded by messages at every turn. Stores have been decorated for Christmas since October, holiday music is in the air, your favorite series devotes more screen time to commercials than to the actual program; you can't escape. It's so easy to get caught up in the excitement of "Black Friday" bargains and tinsel and lights, but that excitement can quickly become remorse when the credit card bills begin arriving in January.
Read More
What is Military Saves Week?
It’s February, which means you have probably started hearing about Military Saves Week. Did you know that 22% of all Marines fall into the "high financial stress" category, and state that they have low confidence in their financial management skills? Even fewer engage in financial management activities. That's why Military Saves Week is the perfect time of year to explore the Personal Financial Management services offered at your installation. Don’t get caught off guard by an unexpected expense. Let the Personal Financial Management program help you start saving today.
Read More
Save For the Future! Become a Knowledgeable Investor
Where do you want to be in 20 years? How about when you’re 60? As a young Marine it may be difficult to answer these questions. After all, the future is years away and who knows what might happen between now and then?
Read More
Are You A Risk Taker?
Are you usually a risk-taker, or are you more “conservative” when making decisions? Whether you are someone who lives life on the edge or prefer to follow the rules, chances are that you want to protect your lifelong investments. There’s nothing wrong with taking some risks, but problems arise when the level of the risk that you’re taking threatens the things most important to you.
Read More
10 Interview Questions You Must Be Prepared to Answer
Are you preparing for your next job interview? If you want to impress the interviewer there are some crucial questions that you must be ready to answer.
Read More
What is a HITT Athlete
You’ve probably heard the term “HITT” a lot around the Marine Corps lately. Maybe you’ve seen the High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Lockers at your installation. Or perhaps you noticed the advertisements for the Ultimate HITT Championships that took place in September. You may be thinking “what exactly is a HITT athlete anyway?”
Read More
Are You Suffering From Caregiver Burnout?
Being a caregiver comes with enormous responsibility. Caring for a loved one can be very rewarding, but the demands can also be overwhelming. If the stress of caregiving is not dealt with properly it can take a toll on your health and state of mind.
Read More
The Easy Way to Guarantee Your Marine Gets Their Holiday Gifts On Time
Thousands of men and women in the nation’s diplomatic corps and in the military will be serving abroad during the holidays and the mail is a great way to stay connected with them by sending them cards, letters, presents and care packages for the festive season.
Read More
10 Most Anticipated Redbox Releases for December
Looking for some great late night entertainment? Stop by your nearest MCCS Redbox location and check out one of these hot new releases coming in December!
Read More
Once a Marine, Always a Marine: Career Resources for Veterans
This week we observed Veterans Day, a day where we remember the service of our Marines and thank them for their dedication to serving our country. Each day more than 500 men and women transition out of the military. One of the largest hurdles facing veterans is finding a job after they transition to civilian life. “Once a Marine, Always a Marine” has always been a key part of the Marine Corps ethos and it is reflected in the professional development opportunities offered before and after separation. Not only does the Corps offer transition assistance to active duty service members, but it also provides career and mentoring support long after Marines take off their uniform.
Read More
MCB Okinawa to Host ESPN Armed Forces Classic
Are you searching for something to do this weekend? Well, if you’re in Okinawa why not head to the Armed Forces Classic. This Saturday, November 14, the Gonzaga University Bulldogs will face off against the University of Pittsburgh Panthers at the Camp Foster Fieldhouse. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:35 a. m. local time (GMT +9). The game is followed by an expo at the Gunners Fitness Center Parking Lot. If you're not in Okinawa you can watch the game live on the MCCS Okinawa website.
Read More
Run Like a Marine: Training Tips from an Armed Forces Marathon Champion
Are you wondering what it takes to become an Armed Forces Sports champion? We sat down with Capt Christine Taranto, winner of the Women’s Armed Forces Marathon Championship and second place finisher at the 40th Marine Corps Marathon, to find out how she maintains her mental and physical readiness, both on the pavement and in uniform.
Read More
Tis the Season to Volunteer
If you have volunteered in the past, you probably know the many benefits associated with volunteering. For those of you who have never participated, or if it has been a while since you last put on the volunteer hat, here are just a few of the things you’ve been missing!
Read More
Choosing Your Professional References
References are an important part of the job search process, but they can often be an afterthought. The U.S. Department of Labor recommends that job seekers have six professional references to provide to employers. Be sure you have properly prepared for supplying references. Failure to prepare references ahead of time can result in the loss of a potential job offer.
Read More
5 Reasons You Should Be Shopping the Marine Corps Exchange Thanksgiving Sale
There are many great reasons to shop at the MCX, but here are a few of the top reasons there is no better place for you to shop this holiday season!
Read More
Don't Leave Money on the Table: Claim Your Travel Entitlements
Most Marines who separate or retire from the Marine Corps rate travel entitlements (per diem and transportation allowances) from their final permanent duty station to their home of selection or home of record. But in 2014, only 29% of the Marines who left the Marine Corps submitted a final separation travel claim. The average payment for submitted claims was over $2,300. What could you do with an extra $2,300 after separation?
Read More
Baby, It's Cold Outside: Tips to Stay Warm and Save Energy This Winter
Do you feel that chill in the air? Old Man Winter is on his way. Regardless of whether you’re expecting snowfall or just slightly cooler weather, chances are you’ll use your heater this winter – in fact, heating is the largest energy expense in the average American home, accounting for about 45 percent of energy costs. (Bah, Humbug!)
Read More
What's the Best Resume Format for You?
When applying for a job you should always use a Targeted Resume, that is, a resume designed for a specific position. Depending on the type of position you’re applying for, or your background and experience, you may prefer to use one type of resume over another. Not sure which resume format you should choose? Here’s a brief overview of common resume types to get you started.
Read More
Moving Forward: Healing After Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is a traumatic event that may cause victims to experience a range of physical and emotional reactions. These reactions are common for most trauma victims and have nothing to do with personal weakness. Recognizing what is happening to you up front may help you handle things better.
Read More
Fall Into Energy Savings
The holidays are quickly approaching, football season is in full swing, and family gatherings are on the calendar. Chances are, you’re starting to use your kitchen appliances more than usual. Here are eight ways to save energy (and energy costs!) when making your favorite game-day snacks or holiday meals that are guaranteed to be easier than winning your fantasy league or cooking the perfect turkey:
Read More
Everything You Need to Know About Relocating
Do you need help relocating but don’t know where to start? Then the Information and Referral (I&R;) office at your installation should be your first stop. Since October 1, 2014, relocation services in the Marine Corps have been run through I&R;, who will help you connect to all of the resources you need to ensure a successful move.
Read More
5 Must Read Water Safety Tips to Prevent Drowning
Children love the water. It’s sparkly, cold and fun to splash parents with. But water can also be dangerous. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for children ages 1-14. It is silent and happens quickly, but it is preventable. Implementing multiple layers of protection in your home can keep your children safe and prevent drowning in a home pool or spa.
Read More
Easy Energy Saving Tips You Need To Know
Do you ever wonder how energy is used in day-to-day work and life – at offices, in warehouses, in vehicles, in barracks, and in homes? By the time you finish reading this article, two gallons of water flow will have come from faucets within your home or office. Water usage makes up a significant portion of the Marine Corps utility bill.
Read More
A Simple Checklist for PCSing with an Exceptional Family Member
When you are preparing to PCS it is easy to get lost in all the details. This is especially true if you’re moving with a family member with exceptional needs. When you receive your orders the first thing you should do is to familiarize yourself with the PCS process and all the steps involved.
Read More
Do You Know How to Vote Absentee?
As Marines, one of the most important rights you fight to defend is the right to vote. Recent elections have been decided by a margin of victory of less than 0.1%, so every vote truly does matter. Thanks to the Absentee Voting Process, you can make sure your vote is counted even if deployed.
Read More
Why Read Aloud to your Child?
One of the most rewarding moments between a parent and a child is sharing a book. Reading aloud with a child enlarges vocabulary, enhances listening and problem solving skills, improves literacy, and strengthens the parental bond. As a child grows older, they will always be on the go. Curling up with a book allows the two of you to slow down and recapture those snuggly moments from when they were a baby. It is a time for closeness, curiosity, laughing and talking together.
Read More
Marathon Motivation: What Inspired These Marines to Run 26.2 Miles?
This weekend 23,197 runners charged the District, beat the bridge and took the Iwo to cross the finish line of the 40th Marine Corps Marathon. Among them were members of the USMC Running Team who were not only competing for personal glory; the Armed Forces Championship and Challenge Cup were also at stake.
Read More
What Marine Corps Parents Need to Know About Federal Impact Aid
As the parent of a military child you may have heard the phrase “Federal Impact Aid” once or twice before. But what does that actually mean? How does it affect your children?
Read More
Marines Compete at CISM Military World Games
Top athletes from around the world gathered in South Korea this month to compete in the Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) 6th Military World Games. The Games, which were attended by more than 8,000 people from 110 nations, took place 2-11 October 2015 in Mungyeong Korea.
Read More
10 Most Anticipated Redbox Releases for October
Looking for some great late night entertainment? Stop by your nearest MCCS Redbox location and check out one of these hot new releases coming in October!
Read More
7 Tips to Make Halloween Safer For Your Children
Fall celebrations like Halloween are joyous occasions for children. They’re also great opportunities to teach your children valuable lessons about safety. Following the simple tips below can ensure your Halloween festivities are safe and enjoyable for all.
Read More
3 Simple Ways to Mark National Disability Employment Awareness Month
This year marks the 70th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an event that has close ties to the Marine Corps. After all, it was the military that first brought the subject into the national spotlight. When wounded service members returned from World War II and re-entered the workforce it inspired a conversation about the contributions of people with disabilities.
Read More
Summer Reading Can Make or Break Your Child
Just because school’s out doesn’t mean your child should stop learning. Research shows that children who don’t read over the course of the summer typically score lower on standardized tests at the end of summer vacation than they do at the beginning.
Read More
5210: The Secret Code to a Healthy Lifestyle
September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, which means it’s the perfect time to take stock of your family’s nutrition. Days in the Marine Corps can be long, and sometimes the last thing you want to do after work is exercise or prepare and cook a nutritious meal. It’s tempting to just order takeout and relax on the couch with your family. That’s why the Department of Defense has devised the 5210 plan to make things simpler for you.
Read More
What No One Tells You About Off Base Child Care
Living on or near a military installation can be a great relief for Marine Corps Families in need of child care. Living close to an installation allows for easy access to support and services. But what about Active Duty service members who don’t live near an installation?
Read More
Five Easy Ways to Save Energy at Home
This October, the Marine Corps and its families are celebrating Energy Action Month, a federal program that promotes energy and water efficient behavior. This month is the perfect time to develop new energy habits that you can practice year-round. Here are five easy ways to start saving energy and money today:
Read More
Watch the HITT Championship Highlight Video
The top 34 Active Duty Marines competed at the inaugural High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Championship at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, 29 Palms, California on Sep. 15-17, 2015.
Read More
Family Advocacy Program: The Relationship Resource You Haven't Heard Of
Honor. Courage. Commitment. These are the core values of the Marine Corps, and they are also the foundation of a healthy relationship. For Domestic Violence Awareness Month ensure that you are keeping your relationship healthy and strong by living by your core values.
Read More
Say What? A Marine Corps Translation Guide
The Marine Corps has its own language, and the Unit, Personal and Family Readiness Program is no different. Here are a few cheats to help you better understand what the FRO may be trying to tell you.
Read More
9 Simple Food Swaps to Make at the Commissary
Life in the Marine Corps can be busy. You don’t always have the time or energy to make healthy food choices. But living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be hard or involve elaborate meal plans. Simple changes can add up to big health benefits.
Read More
A Simple Guide to Creating a Swim Workout
Have you always wanted to incorporate swimming into your exercise routine but weren’t sure where to start? Swimming provides a great cardio workout while sculpting your muscles at the same time. There’s no need to plan a workout schedule to target specific areas because swimming will strengthen your entire body. The Marine Corps Aquatics Specialist has put together this simple swimming routine to help you take your workouts from the treadmill to the pool.
Read More
5 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know Were Energy Myths
Saving energy can be confusing – you may wonder, for example, does it use more energy to turn the lights off then back on, or to leave them on? (Answer: leaving them on uses more energy – always turn lights off when you leave a room so you don’t waste electricity.) October is Energy Action Month, the perfect time to learn more about energy efficiency and debunk some things you may have heard. Here are five more myths about energy efficiency you may have believed, and why they aren’t true. Follow these tips to lower your energy bills!
Read More
Master the 3 "D"s of Bystander Intervention
Bystander intervention is one of the most effective ways to prevent sexual assault. An active bystander is someone who has the moral courage to find a way to safely intervene to stop a potentially dangerous situation. In a recent survey, of the 4% of Junior Enlisted respondents who observed a high risk situation that they believed was or could have led to sexual assault, 86% intervened.*
Read More
DIY: Auto Skills Center Makes Fixing Your Own Vehicle a Breeze!
Anything having to do with auto repairs can be very costly. As someone who knows absolutely nothing about vehicles, I have shelled out way more money than I’d like to admit on auto repairs. I’d love to be able to save money and fix my vehicle myself but the only thing I know about vehicles is how to drive them, and according to my sister, not very well.
Read More
34 Compete for the Ultimate HITT Athlete Title
The top 34 Active Duty Marines will compete at the inaugural High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Athlete Championship at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, 29 Palms, California, from Sept. 15-17, 2015. One male and one female Marine will be crowned the 2015 "Ultimate HITT Athlete.”
Read More
Fun Fall Travel Ideas
Autumn is a fantastic season for travel. With the kids back in school and the buzz of summer crowds dying down, many of the most popular vacation spots are a bit quieter and less expensive after Labor Day. No matter what your idea of a great getaway is, let MCCS\' Information, Tickets & Travel save you time and money.
Read More
Injury Prevention Tips and Tricks
An injury can be detrimental to your health and make it difficult to perform your job in the Corps to the best of your ability. Follow these tips from the Semper Fit Fitness Experts to keep your body strong, fit and mission ready.
Read More
Six Things You Should Know About Service Dogs
Have you ever thought of getting a service dog for yourself or a loved one? In honor of National Service Dog Month, here are some fast facts on these hardworking dogs that make life better for Marine Corps families around the globe.
Read More
5 Must-Play MCCS Bowling Centers That Get a Perfect Score
There are over 20 bowling centers located on Marine Corps installations worldwide, ranging from the U.S. mainland to Hawaii, Okinawa, and Japan. With more than 300 lanes, MCCS Bowling Centers offer year-round competitive leagues and recreational play combined with promotions and tournaments. Each MCCS Bowling Center has its own unique charm, but the energy and passion found inside the doors of each will ensure you want to come back again and again.
Read More
5 Tips to Choosing Community Based Child Care
Searching for child care can be scary, especially for those families who do not have access to installation child development programs. We have outlined some tips to ease the task of finding care for your little ones.
Read More
Secrets of Success from the Marine Corps Top Athletes
Do you remember the first time you wanted to succeed at something? How about the last time you were really motivated to finish a task?
Read More
7 Sneaky Sources of Sugar
Think just because you don’t have a sweet tooth you don’t have to worry about sugar? Think again. Sugar hides behind 57 different names and lurks in many seemingly “healthy” foods. Extra ingredients like high fructose corn syrup or molasses can quickly derail your daily recommended intake of roughly 25 grams of sugar per day. Here are some secret sugar bombs you need to watch out for on your next trip to the Commissary.
Read More
The Interstate Compact: Know Your Child's Education Rights
Are you PCSing and worried about graduation requirements, course availability, or sports tryouts for your military-connected kids? Do you wish there was some way to make transitioning between schools a little easier? Then you need to know about the Interstate Compact!
Read More
Live Our Values: A Marine Corps Guide to Volunteering
Are you thinking about volunteering in your community but don't know where to begin? Do you need a volunteer position to enhance your resume? Read our infographic below to find out how the Marine Corps can connect you with volunteer opportunities in your area.
Read More
First Marine Earns Credentials Through COOL
The Marine Corps Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) program is well underway, providing Marines a way to take the skills they have learned on the job and translate them into civilian credentials.
Read More
What Do I Do if I'm Sexually Assaulted?
If you are a victim of sexual assault, there are a number of things you may want to consider doing to keep yourself safe and healthy. You may also want to think about preserving the evidence, and reaching out to people who are ready to listen without disclosing your identity to others.
Read More
Four Reasons to Join the Single Marine Program
Whether you’re single or a geographic bachelor, the Single Marine Program (SMP) provides a place to bond with other Marines while having fun and making a difference.
Read More
Beginner's Guide to PCSing For Families With Exceptional Needs
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can be very stressful for a Marine Corps family. When you have a family member with exceptional needs the situation can become even more complicated. When a family with an individual with exceptional needs changes stations, a range of physiological and emotional needs must be taken into consideration. Changes in support services can very easily disrupt your daily life and affect the entire family.
Read More
Why Reducing Energy Waste is Vital to the Marine Corps Mission
Did you know the average flush from your toilet will use five gallons of water? Or how about that bath you took this morning? A tub can hold an average of 37 gallons of water. By the time you are finished reading this article, seven gallons of water will be used while your fellow Marine takes a shower.
Read More
10 Ways YOU Can Build a Healthy Relationship
A healthy relationship is based on equality and respect, not power and control. You've heard the experts say that maintaining a healthy relationship takes work. That's true. But with a little extra effort, you can set the stage for a healthy, functional, intimate relationship with your partner.
Read More
Must Know Job Search Tips for Transitioning Marines
You should be thinking of transitioning out long before you actually do. Finding a job can take a lot of time and effort, especially if your chosen field requires further study. Interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree? The Leadership Scholar Program assists transitioning Marines with college applications and has connections at over 200 universities across the country.
Read More
Leading in the Civilian World. Where Do I Start?
Congratulations! You’ve successfully transitioned into a civilian role, but as your first day approaches you start to wonder: Will my leadership skills from the Marine Corps work in the civilian world? Do I have to manage civilian employees differently?
Read More
Think You Don't Need a Financial Plan? Think Again.
You are ready to transition. You have spent your days editing your cover letter and resume to perfection. You have done more mock interviews than you can count. Your LinkedIn profile is polished, and you have built a strong network during your time in the Marine Corps. You should be able to find a job in no time. Right?
Read More
The Virtual Hope Box: An App Every Marine Needs
Life in the Marine Corps can be hectic. We could all use a break every now and again to center ourselves and collect our thoughts. The Department of Defense Virtual Hope Box app can help you do just that.
Read More
The Secret to High Intensity Tactical Training
Whether you are a United States Marine or simply want to train like one, High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) will get you in combat ready shape. HITT is a strength and conditioning program that focuses on improving speed, power, strength and endurance while reducing the likelihood of injury. HITT consists of three training levels (Athlete, Combat, and Warrior) which allow you to increase the intensity of your workout as you improve your fitness and become more comfortable with the program.
Read More
How to Do More Pull Ups
Increasing the number of pull-ups performed is a goal of many Marines. Virtually everyone, regardless of size, is capable of training for pull-up improvement. These simple tips can help you attain that first-class PFT score in no time.
Read More
4 Reasons to Add Deep Water Running to Your Workout Routine
Want to improve your running but bored of the same old workouts? Are you looking for a new addition to your cross training regimen? Here are four science backed reasons to give deep water running a try.
Read More
The Trick to Negotiating A Civilian Salary
A question that frequently comes up when Marines transition is how to negotiate a civilian salary when your previous one was based on the military pay system.
Read More
This Checklist Will Make School Registration a Breeze
It’s moving season! You’ve received your orders and have made arrangements with DPS to have your household items shipped to your new home. You’re all set to move, right? Wrong.
Read More
Affordable Date Ideas for Marine Couples
Between deployments, training, taking care of the kids and other obligations it can sometimes be a challenge to spend quality time with your partner. Here are 9 affordable date ideas to help you rekindle the romance in your relationship.
Read More
How to Apply to College, Devil Dog
You have decided college is your next step after the Marine Corps. Now what? Where do you begin and how do you handle all the paperwork required to apply? Remember, you are NOT the same person who entered service, so give yourself credit for the life and work experiences you have attained since joining the Marine Corps. Here are a few helpful suggestions to get you through the process.
Read More
Why Community College? Why Not?
Thinking about transitioning out of the Corps? Community college can be a great option to help you achieve your educational goals without breaking the bank. It also gives you the chance to adapt to an academic environment before undertaking a 4-year degree.
Read More
The Right Resource, the Right Way, the First Time
Do you find yourself needing help, but you don’t know what program or resource meets your needs? Are you overwhelmed by the task of trying to navigate through online or in-person resources? Do you wish you could speak to someone who could assist you, instead of getting voice recordings every time you dial a number?
Read More
4 Reasons to Try Out for All-Marine Sports
Marines have each other’s backs on the battlefield. But what about on the playing field? All-Marine Sports offers all active duty Marines a way to stay in shape, hone their athletic skills, and build camaraderie on and off the field.
Read More
11 Reasons to Do AMP-IT Right Now
You’ve heard about High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT), but what about Aquatics Maximum Power Intensity Training (AMP-IT)? AMP-IT is a water-based workout suitable for all fitness levels. AMP-IT isn’t like the water aerobics classes you’ve seen before. It’s a high intensity fitness class that will increase muscle endurance, improve cardiovascular-respiratory function, and aid in injury rehabilitation.
Read More
5 Things to Know When Choosing a Life Jacket
The Marine Corps offers a variety of water recreation activities across its installations. One of the first things you need to do before spending a day on the water is find a good fitting life jacket that is appropriate for the type of activity you’re doing. With so many options it can be difficult to know what you need. Here are five easy tips to get you started.
Read More
Have You Heard of These Marine Corps Olympians?
Throughout the history of the Marine Corps there have been many examples of Marines who have excelled on both the battlefield and the playing field. We have listed just a few that have stood out as Marines and represented the United States in the Olympic Games.
Read More
Confidentiality: 5 People You Can Talk To
If you are a victim of sexual assault, you may consider reporting the crime if that\'s something you are comfortable doing. Even if reporting is not for you, just talking to another person may be helpful. In any event, the last thing you need to worry about is who you can trust.
Read More
Finding a Mentor as a Marine Spouse
You know a mentor is key to advancing your career, but as a Marine spouse where do you find a mentor to provide career guidance, advice and support? Here are several places to start your search.
Read More
Should I Tell an Interviewer I’m a Military Spouse?
Wondering if you should tell an interviewer that you’re a military spouse?
Read More
Complete the Picture
All Marines know the importance of sight alignment and sight picture. But have you taken the time to begin snapping in for your retirement years?
Read More
Building Your Network as a Marine Spouse
When you are looking for employment start with the network you already have, continue to cultivate it, and start growing your professional network both in person and online.
Read More
The 7 Most Common Interview Situations
Throughout your job search, you may encounter a variety of interviews that are potentially different from the face-to-face meetings you’re used to. Check out this list of potential interview situations you might encounter and how best to prepare for them.
Read More
Cloudy with a Chance of Rain
An emergency fund can help protect your retirement savings!
Read More
Check Your Progress
You don’t just have to “set and forget” your TSP contributions! Do you know how to check out how your retirement investments are growing?
Read More
2019 Athletes of the Year Awarded
On January 22, 2020, the Commandant of the Marine Corps hosted the Combined Awards Ceremony, recognizing outstanding Marines across various categories.
Read More
Load More