Friday, December 12, 2014

Military Retiree Housing & Travel Benefits

Armed Force Recreation Center Hotel in Germany


The military lifestyle comes with its hardships, but it also has unique perks. A traveling retired member of the U.S. armed services can take advantage of the same convenient and affordable lodging options that they had when on active duty. Temporary housing is available at hotels, resorts, guesthouses, on-base lodges and armed forces recreation centers around the world.


Types of Accommodations


Retirees can use the military on-base transient quarters as well as the on-base lodges or hotels. They may also reserve a room at one of five Armed Forces Recreation Centers located in Germany, Hawaii, Florida, Virginia and Korea. Other options include campgrounds, recreational vehicle sites and Armed Forces Vacation Club Condos.


Geography


Retirees may exercise their housing and travel benefits at U.S. military installations worldwide. The U.S. military has bases and facilities throughout the United States, Europe and Asia.


Considerations


A few of the smaller facilities and RV sites, as well as the condos, fill up fast during the peak summer season. Advance reservations are recommended. Many of the condos may be available only during off-peak seasons.


Documentation


Military retirees must carry a DD Form 2 (blue) Armed Forces identification card. A "gray area" retired reservist (who is entitled to but not yet receiving retired pay), must carry a DD Form 2 (red) ID card and a notice of retirement eligibility. A retired reservist receiving retired pay must carry a DD Form 2 (blue) ID card.


"Space A" Travel


A military retiree can book travel on a space-available flight, commonly known as a "space A" or military hop. Space A hops are flights that allow military members, retirees and their families onboard according to the number of seats that remain available after priority passengers have been seated. A military retiree may fly to and from any military command that has flights available within the United States or overseas.

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