When holidays fall near the weekend, creative federal workers and Airmen have opportunities to enjoy longer holidays. At least, they did. Known as Family Days, troops and civilian workers have been provided certain times when fewer meetings or activities take place, allowing for longer weekend holidays when approved. Now, it looks like this perk may be going away as ongoing changes hit workers in the federal government.

Air Force Family Days are simply days off for troops that are often approved when a holiday is also going to provide warfighters with a day off on Friday or Monday.

Common examples include receiving Family Days on the Fridays before Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Presidents Day, which are always on Mondays.

Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, and other major federal holidays also often have Family Days around them to allow troops four days of rest with their families.

Also provided to Guardians, those who do have to work can use their time off later on through a comp day.

U.S. Air Force Family Days Could Be Cut for Civilians

Employers who are serious about retaining talent and keeping workers happy understand that the key is to empower their workers to have legitimate chances for a proper 

Despite this, the Department of the Air Force is taking a closer look at the use of Family Days for civilian employees who have previously been unauthorized.

While Airmen are afforded this opportunity when approved, the Air Force doesn’t allow this four-day weekend loophole for civilians.

Federal law would have to change in order for this to happen, despite legislation allowing for leaders to essentially provide virtually the same exact perk through “liberal leave” days.

Regardless, the U.S. Air Force is looking to cut back on these free days amid more cuts throughout the federal government.

In a memo, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force 

 stated that “Unless otherwise exempted, if civilian employees are not on an excused absence, they should be working at their current duty location.”

Furthermore, DeFilippi also mentioned that “Over the next several weeks, (the Department of the Air Force) will evaluate Family Days to ensure they align with our ability to support warfighter readiness.”

It’s still unclear how such cuts will affect the military but what is happening in the USAF is far from an isolated incident.

Other military branches could also follow by having similar cutbacks, as rumors continue to grow louder on social media.

The cuts from President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are proving that nothing is safe.

Air Force Family Days Latest Federal Worker Shakeup

There is already backlash involving the elimination of Family Days, as workers and troops are already dealing with stressful work conditions.

It’s understandable that the military doesn’t want its workforce simply off for no reason but having time to recharge and reconnect is essential for any endeavor, including defending our nation.

Family Days play an important role in letting loved ones who are too often separated for the good of our nation’s interests bond and enjoy downtime together.

They are essential moments in time, that already feel fleeting for those sacrificing for our freedoms.

Trump’s Cuts to WTC Health Program Is Impacting Responders, Survivors, and Milspouses

Military Parents Blindsided: New HIPAA Privacy Rule Restricts Teen Health Record Access

Trump's DEI Orders Prompt Defense Department Schools to Pull Civil Rights Books

Air Force Family Days Could Be Eliminated for Civilians Amid Crackdown

Moving to a new assigned area can be difficult and can take a lot of stress. The Defense Department's 

 takes less stress by providing families a mover.

Military families don’t have to worry about paying an expensive mover as the defense department has contacted 

 for the moving responsibility. However, due to lots of negative reviews from military families with the use of HomeSafe Alliance, they are not very happy or satisfied with the service as few didn’t receive their items but marked as completed; some already filed an inconvenience claim, which was expected to receive a reasonable amount of money but never received.

This blog will help you understand PCS and household goods shipments, how to choose the right movers, and how to keep yourself aware of this moving situation.

The military system taking care of military household goods shipments has changed. The government provided HomeSafe Alliance 6.2 billion for this new system, but there’s a negative effect in which several moving companies may lower their prices, which can be expected in lower quality of service.

With this new system, military families have been struggling with their household goods being lost or over delayed. Some are not happy with this and are sharing their experiences with others to prevent this from happening to them.

HomeSafe Alliance and Transcom have denied these reviews about these incidents; however, they assured families they would make amends as they go through the changes in the new military system, but still, families are unsatisfied and frustrated about their household goods.

Understanding PCS and Household Goods Shipments

PCSing is a Permanent Change of Station that involves moving to a new military duty station, and this impacts military personnel and their families by moving a lot to new areas assigned to them.

When moving to a new area, you must be prepared and organized; you must have a plan or system that will take effect on your moving time.

You should expect that your household goods will be transported by a moving truck, so they must be organized thoroughly. It is important to be familiar with things you have packed, so that’s why 

, such as for furniture, kitchen supplies, bathroom supplies, and more.

You also want to put some fragile stickers on household goods that are glass, ceramic, or too fragile to move or toss around so that they keep them safe.

It would be a great idea, too, if you had a GPS tracking device on each box to prevent any box from getting misplaced or lost. When moving, you should think about buying insurance for your household goods, as this insurance coverage protects against loss or damage during transit.

A good technique plan for packing your household goods will help you lessen the stress of any challenges that may come.

We all know that military families are provided with company movers, but because of the recent negative reviews of it, military families need to change and choose the right movers as our household goods are not just a thing; it’s something special to your family, a necessity.

That’s why we need to be informed and know things that are important when 

. Such right companies understand the challenges faced by military members and their families during relocations. That's why they provide the right solution.

When choosing the right movers, you must see these characteristics first:

Have enough specialized knowledge about the needs and requirements of service members and their families, as others have specific concerns

On-point safety and security to assure their clients

What Do Military Families Say About the Situation?

Military families are unsatisfied and stressed by the way HomeSafe Alliance provides service.

One of them spoke up and said, "Delivery has been awful. It's now 20 days after we were supposed to get our shipment, and we have no idea when we're going to get our stuff."

Just imagine the frustration of the families having to wait for the household goods that they need to use. She has three kids, and they are all sleeping on floor mats, trying to buy as little household items as possible. Imagine the horror they went through because of this delivery delay, loss, or such.

Another family member spoke up about it: "Terrible. My household goods have been missing for a month, and Homesafe is completely unreliable and actively stonewalls any attempt for me to get information from them." Their household goods are gone for a month, which for them is very frustrating.

That’s why even though they provided a moving company for you, you have the right to choose a reliable moving company that is quick, has excellent customer support, and you can track your household goods from your previous house to your present.

Time to PCS? Be Sure to Lean on Your Military Sponsor

PCS Budget: Expert Tips & 5 Tools to Plan for It

PCS House Hunting: Tips for Finding a Home

The Ultimate Guide: How to Ship Household Goods and Personal Effects Safely

Find the Best PCS Moving Companies: Top 10 Picks for Military Relocations

Families Continue to Experience Shipment Delays & Poor Service Under HomeSafe Alliance

Bad people want to do terrible things from time to time, and while the military remains vigilant against threats, it’s important to have systems in place. In modern times, Force Protection Conditions (FPCON) help the military monitor threats and communicate them to ensure safety measures are in place. Learn more about how FPCON levels help the military communicate safety, defend its bases and civilians, and why Europe is facing another elevated threat.

The U.S. Department of Defense utilizes FPCON levels, or Force Protection Conditions, to manage terrorism threats in real time. There are five levels, each indicating a different level of threat:

The lowest risk level, while there is a general threat of terrorism, minimal precautions are necessary at this time.

 The military believes there is an increased, unpredictable threat present. Expect stricter protocols to begin being in place here.

 More predictable, specific threats are a possibility.

 The second-highest security level, expect offices to have restricted hours, increased security, disruption to normal procedures, and more due to either an incident or intelligence indicating an attack is likely.

 This is the highest level where either a terrorist attack has occurred or is imminent.

As FPCON levels change, expect increased security measures like ID checks, vehicle inspections, and potential gate closures. Always follow guidance from base leadership when it comes to level changes.

FPCON levels​ can be skipped depending on the circumstances. For example, if things are rated Normal, yet a terrorist attack occurs, ​Delta will become the new rating.

Also, FPCON levels may also have a "+" designation, adding extra security measures like ID checks or patrols to enhance protection.

Furthermore, Delta is unique and only lasts a few days because it responds to a specific, known threat, unlike other levels that prepare for potential or general threats.

Commanders use these levels to help protect military facilities from terrorism while communicating with service members and civilians alike.

Unlike DEFCON, which focuses on military deployment in civilian attack scenarios, FPCON assesses necessary security measures based on current terrorism threats, available security forces, and global relations.

 in 2001 to avoid confusion with the State Department's system and since 9/11, the baseline level has been set at Bravo.

FPCON Levels Elevated in Europe Once More

Reports of major disruptions for military families at Ramstein Air Base and throughout Europe as FPCON levels are elevated to Charlie.

Germany is home to a notable U.S. military community, and while the details of why the FPCON levels changed are still scarce, families are experiencing increased security measures.

During the fourth weekend of February 2025, officials believe an attack on personnel or structures on base could come to fruition.

"From DOD Alert Effective immediately, FPCON Charlie is in effect at all USAG Bavaria installations. Wearing of military uniforms off-post is prohibited. Only essential personnel and housing residents are permitted access to installations. Contact your supervisor regarding access level. Visitor sponsor privileges are not authorized. Expect delays at gates and limited services at offices and facilities. Facilities must post FCON Charlie signs on all entrance doors. Thank you for your patience and cooperation."

Although it’s not unprecedented for Europe, Charlie-level threats are rare. Despite this, 

 came to be at the end of June to the beginning of July 2024.

It’s never a good thing to have elevated FPCON levels but fortunately, the world’s best military is working to keep everyone safe.

For those who work or live on base, however, expect general disruptions as security takes even more in-depth measures than usual.

Trump Fires High-Ranking Military Officials & Several Female Officers in Recent Shake-Up

FPCON Levels Hit 'Charlie' in Europe as Possible Threat is Monitored

How to Make $50,000 as an Air Force Pilot by Sept. 15, 2023

Malmstrom AFB Cancer Concerns Grow with New Information Released

Joining the military is going to be more difficult for some as President Donald Trump continues to strip the transgender community of the opportunity to serve. While transgender military members make up only a small percentage of the overall population, a new policy from The Pentagon will effectively ban them from serving. Those with gender dysphoria will also be barred from enrolling in the future.

Are Transgenders Allowed in the Military?

Being transgender in the military​ is not allowed under a new policy issued by The Pentagon. Service members diagnosed with or treated for gender dysphoria can no longer be a part of the military.

There are exceptions, including those who are deemed to be specifically needed for a military role; however, even in these cases, there are strict behavioral rules to follow.

According to the new memo, this policy will ban openly serving as a trans warfighter, identifying those who are transgender within 30 days, and shortly after, begin the process of separating these individuals from the military.

 challenging President Trump’s executive order on being transgender in military roles, is arguing that transitioning is incompatible with effective service.

It states that gender is “immutable” and limits transgender enlistment to those who can prove they support warfighting efforts.

Current service members with gender dysphoria must meet strict criteria, and transitioning is virtually out of the question.

Furthermore, service members will have to prove stability in their biological sex for 36 months if they’ve ever dealt with gender dysphoria.

Even with a waiver, the transgender military ban will force service members to be recognized only by their birth sex in bathrooms, sleeping quarters, and official interactions.

LGBTQ advocates are strongly opposing Trump’s transgender military ban, calling it unfair and medically unsound.

Critics are pointing out that this is yet another example of the government’s attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies.

 argued that transgender military troops have served with distinction and deserve equal treatment.

This isn’t the first time Trump has tried to eliminate trans warfighters, as he made things more difficult during his first term, but President Biden overturned those policies.

However, with more supporters in government this time around, Trump’s administration is making more headway.

Transgender Military Members Deserve Better

Figuring out the complexities of being trans and gender dysphoric feels fit for people far more qualified, but what’s more black and white is that those serving our nation deserve respect.

The diversity of our nation helps in many facets, including the military, and anyone willing to put themselves through rigorous training and the perils that come with the sacrifice of service is a hero for our nation.

Transgender military members don’t deserve better simply because of their conditions or decisions but because they’re part of the reason the United States remains an elite fighting force, free from tyranny.

Freedom and justice for all can’t just be a tagline. Everyone should have equal opportunity for service, including transgender military personnel.

2025 BAH Rates Have Been Announced: What You Need to Know

West Point Disbands Cadet Cultural Clubs in Response to DEI Crack

Transgender Service Members Will Be Removed From the Military, According to Pentagon

High-ranking female military leaders are at risk of removal under 

, with the potential of removing more than half a dozen generals and flag officers.

At first, it was just a rumor circulating for weeks, but a formal list of potential removals was shared with the Republican lawmakers while the Democrats were not briefed about the situation.

While the list is not final, this has already raised concerns among many, including lawmakers and defense officials.

The Need to Remove Female Military Leaders

Just recently, while the current administration has made changes to align military leadership with the vision of Trump's administration, it is possible that this is one of the reasons why they are removing officials.

As they continue to remove the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs or the 

, senior officers such as high-ranking female military leaders are being removed.

The Anti-DEI Order is designed to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs from federal agencies, as well as companies that work within the government. It aims to stop practices that focus on race, gender, or other identity factors.

The first Navy female Chief of Naval Operations and the first woman on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Lisa Marie Franchetti, is one of the female military leaders who was dismissed.

Air Force Gen. CQ Brown Jr., the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has been fired as for the current administration, he supported Black Lives Matter, which was the current administration’s war against “wokeism.”

Shortly after Brown had been fired, Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations for the U.S. Navy, was fired by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. She was fired along with another senior officer, Gen. Jim Slife, vice chief of staff of the Air Force. There was no specific reason as to why they had been fired.

Additionally, Coast Guard Commandant Fagan, Airforce Col. Julie Sposito-Salceies, and Navy Cmdr. Sarah Quemada have been removed from their positions.

Prior to Hegseth becoming defense secretary, he already criticized both officers, Chairman General CQ Brown and Admiral Lisa Franchetti, back on a November appearance on the “

"First of all, you've got to fire the chairman of the Joint Chiefs," Hegseth said.

"But any general that was involved, general, admiral, whatever. That was involved in any of the DEI wokes--- has got to go," he continued. "Either you're in for warfighting, and that's it. That's the only litmus test we care about."

How Does It Affect the Female Military Leaders?

Admiral Linda Fagan, the first woman to lead one of the six U.S. military services, has also been removed as the head of the Coast Guard, an official citing alleged "leadership deficiencies” in the current administration.

The reason is the admiral failed to address border security threats and has put “excessive focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs."

Clearly, the move is a part of the broader effort to remove DEI programs from the military. Now that the DEI programs are being cut, it is a high concern for women, especially female military leaders, as there would be fewer of them to rise into high-ranking positions.

DEI as a Factor in Firing Military Officers

"Every time the military leaders state that their strength comes from diversity, I throw up more often because I believe it shows how indoctrinated leaders are," Hegseth said.

The military leaders who just got fired are 

advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion

 in all forms. Trump has ordered an investigation into the DEI program due to its negative impact on the U.S., resulting in their immediate replacement in the military.

One of the fundamental reasons why Trump is purging top military officials is because of their support for the DEI, which Trump believes is a roadblock in his military administration plan.

While Trump has the authority to remove general or any senior officials from their current positions, he could also reassign them should they refuse a request to resign.

However, if they are forced out of their current role, there’s no other opening for them, and it would be their career-ender.

Hegseth requested the military to think about ways to reduce the DOD’s budget by 8% each year for the next five years, and by then, thousands of civilian employees could also be fired and a part of a mass layoff, including the female military leaders, who just got dismissed.

Meet Yolanda Gore, Fort Meade's First Female Army Garrison Commander

USS Louisiana Is the First Sub to Name a Woman as Chief of the Boat

Hegseth's Pentagon Shakeup Could Remove Female Military Leaders

Trump Fires First Woman to Lead a US Military Service

The military sets the Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) annually to help service members cover meal costs at permanent duty stations, but it does not extend to their families. BAS rates fluctuate based on food costs, which can change due to inflation. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides data to determine these rates, though they often increase differently from other military compensation.

Need a meal? Here’s how much service members receive for food each month based on their rank and the BAS rates in 2025:

*BAS II isn’t for everyone. If you’re an enlisted service member living in government quarters without proper access to "adequate food storage or preparation facilities,” you’ll qualify. Keep in mind your pay grade and dependent status aren’t factors. The compensation you receive isn’t taxable.

The 2025 BAS rates increased by 1.2% from 2024. That’s less than the 

 the previous year. In fact, it’s less than half.

While the cost-of-living allowance (COLA) payment covers some of the rising expenses for those stationed in places with extra costly foods, not everyone receives this help.

Furthermore, even those in more affordable markets are still finding it difficult to afford the cost of food just to make ends meet.

The bottom line? Any increase is welcomed and it’s not like BAS payments aim to make you rich, but at the end of the day, military families don’t just need help—they deserve it.

Basic Allowance for Subsistence Misuse Exposed

Need a meal? That’s what BAS is for. Yet, troops and taxpayers may be surprised to learn that a lot of this funding isn’t going to fuel warfighters. To make matters even worse, the military isn’t even being straightforward about where these funds are being allocated.

The Army deducts about $460 monthly from junior enlisted Soldiers' pay for food, yet much of it isn’t spent on meals. In 2024, over $151 million of the $225 million collected from 11 major bases was diverted elsewhere.

At Fort Stewart, GA, only 87% of collected funds went unused, while Soldiers often struggle with food shortages. In many cases, warfighters end up eating low-quality meals or grab-and-go snacks. Officials blame low dining hall attendance, yet poor food quality discourages use.

In 2024, Army bases collected significant funds from Soldiers for food via BAS payments, but much of it went unspent:

Despite Fort Stewart collecting $17 million, only $2.1 million went towards food.

At Fort Drum, only $3.9 million of the $18.2 million collected was used for meals.

Fort Carson took in $22 million but only $5 million was allocated for meals.

Fort Riley spent $5.1 million on meals from troops, however, this is a far cry from the $19.1 million it collected.

Only half of the money collected by Fort Bliss, equating to $11 million, went to food.

Despite getting $42.5 million, Fort Cavazos only used $11.7 million of these funds for feeding the troops.

Fort Bragg collected $34.6 million but only $16.6 million was used appropriately.

A small percentage of the funds collected by Fort Campbell ($5.1 million) were used for food despite raising $18 million.

There was $14.5 million gathered at Schofield Barracks, but the base ended up only using $5.3 million.

Fort Wainwright only spent 33% of its $9 million collected, totaling $3 million.

Fort Richardson used over half of the $7.5 million, where $4 million of the funding went to food costs.

Lawmakers demand an investigation, calling it a misuse of Soldiers’ money. Meanwhile, the Army has yet to clarify where the unspent funds actually go.

Considering these discrepancies equate to several million dollars of unaccounted funds, this story feels far from over as new details become available.

While the 2025 BAS rates strive to help warfighters cover their meals, not everyone is entitled to this compensation. This includes those in basic or officer training, although, if you’ve already undergone continuous enlisted service, exceptions may be made for you.

Additionally, those absent without official leave (AWOL) will not receive compensation and will likely face additional consequences.

Furthermore, if you are a warfighter who leaves to study for education or is in need of an excess leave, exemptions may also be provided.

Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), DoD. Accessed February 2025. 

https://www.dfas.mil/MilitaryMembers/payentitlements/Pay-Tables/bas/

Pentagon Reinstates Reimbursement for IVF Treatment Travel Costs for Military Families

West Point Disbands Cadet Cultural Clubs in Response to DEI Crackdown

Understanding BAS Rates In 2025: What Service Members Should Know

A new naval operation was introduced and collaborated with by two parties, the Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific and the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division. The "Sea Strike" film has been all over the internet, garnering lots of interest.

This 11-minute film is designed to show the U.S. Navy’s ability to 

 in a high-end environment. In this short film, it’s clear how technology is continuously improving, and it’s helpful to this generation, especially since the Navy can now adapt to threats and resolve conflicts in the future’s naval warfare.

In this video, we will learn how the U.S. Navy tests strategies, advanced technologies, and real-time intelligence.

What Does Naval Warfare Look Like in 2043?

As we look ahead to the future of naval warfare, the short film becomes an eye-opener of what’s to come. The Navy’s commitment to innovation, as shown in the film, highlights the importance of staying ahead of everyone and exploring the newly adapted technologies that will become the future of warfare.

In many ways, "Sea Strike’s: The War of 2043” portrays the return of history; great powers at war over national ideals and territorial conflicts. It also shows a nuclear exchange between the United States and China—a real possibility in the War of 2043 scenario would be catastrophic. In such a crucial situation, creating a theory of victory that tells us risks will be the United States’ greatest imperative.

Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments

 tries to sketch out the future of naval warfare and how the growing dissemination of precision-guided weapons impacts it. 

However, given the many unknown variables (e.g., the future role of autonomous and directed energy weapons, advances in artificial intelligence, the impact of cyber war, etc.), the writer is careful to predict the precise nature of future naval warfare and barely sees this as the “beginning of the conversation” on this subject.

Fast forward to 2043, the key to achieving victory through denial and cost-imposition is a strategy that matches capabilities to pressure points. In the War of 2043, the most valuable capabilities present a manageable risk of inadvertent or accidental escalation; are sustainable, allowing for recovery and reconstitution; are flexible enough for use under varying conditions; and are likely to expedite the end of hostilities.

The most outstanding feature of the "Sea Strike" video is the flawless incorporation of advanced technology into military tactics. The era of sluggish and manual battleships is way behind us now. 

This is the time for AI-driven drones, autonomous vehicles, and next-level weapon systems. Here’s a closer look at the enhancements the 2043 war shows:

 "Sea Strike" emphasizes the flawless use of AI-driven drones and weaponry in future naval warfare.

Empowering Troops with Better Decision-Making

: Armed with advanced weapons and gear, the Navy can make well-informed decisions and carry out more complex strategies.

 Integrating artificial intelligence and robotics will revolutionize the Navy's approach strategies, making them more agile and adaptive to nascent risks.

The short film has truly shown us what kind of improvement and advancement can be made with today’s resources so that naval warfare can be handled by the hands of our people in the future. You can 

LATEST NEWS

10 things to know before obtaining a VA home loan

ARTICLES

AIR FORCE FAMILY DAYS COULD BE ELIMINATED FOR CIVILIANS AMID CRACKDOWN

By Buddy Blouin

FAMILIES CONTINUE TO EXPERIENCE SHIPMENT DELAYS & POOR SERVICE UNDER HOMESAFE ALLIANCE

By Allison Kirschbaum

FPCON LEVELS HIT 'CHARLIE' IN EUROPE AS POSSIBLE THREAT IS MONITORED

By Buddy Blouin

HOW TO MAKE $50,000 AS AN AIR FORCE PILOT BY SEPT. 15, 2023

By Buddy Blouin

MALMSTROM AFB CANCER CONCERNS GROW WITH NEW INFORMATION RELEASED

By Buddy Blouin

TRANSGENDER SERVICE MEMBERS WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE MILITARY, ACCORDING TO PENTAGON

By Buddy Blouin

TRUMP FIRES HIGH-RANKING MILITARY OFFICIALS & SEVERAL FEMALE OFFICERS IN RECENT SHAKE-UP

By Allison Kirschbaum

UNDERSTANDING BAS RATES IN 2025: WHAT SERVICE MEMBERS SHOULD KNOW

By Buddy Blouin

US NAVY UNVEILS ‘SEA STRIKE,' A REIMAGINING OF HIGH-TECH WARFARE IN 2043

By Allison Kirschbaum

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Email*

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER