Info about Us Army
US Army: Life as an Army Man
The US Army is one of the largest military units in the United States as well as one of the oldest. If you are considering joining the Army forces, it may help you to learn more about the army and what it is like to be in the army, including educational benefits, career options, the daily life as an Army man and living options. It may surprise you to learn that your day-to-day life is not all that different than that of someone who is not in the Army, aside from additional benefits provided to you such as discount housing, shopping options, paid college tuition and career services. Army communities are supportive of each other’s families and are one of the biggest advantages of being in the US Army.
Housing
There are a variety of choices as far as housing is concerned when you are in the US Army. You can choose to live on base where you have access to free or discounted housing or off base at the location of your choice. Even if you live off base, you may have access to discounted housing from various apartment and condo buildings near base. Housing on base, also called Post housing, you have a variety of advantages including being close to work, discount shopping and other communities of the US Army. Housing on base provides plenty of amenities you will be interested in such as large living areas, front or back yards, plenty of closet space, ceiling fans, large appliances, and occasionally dishwashers, washers, dryers, and garages. If you live alone or have a family, Post housing provides everything you could possibly need as far as housing is concerned.
Personal Finances
When you are in the US Army you have different pay and allowances available to you, which depend largely on your rank and length of service. You will get a standard paycheck, which is called Basic Pay, as well as other pays and allowances for subsistence, housing and clothing. Many banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions are available to members of the US Army with additional advantages such as reasonable loans and credit union services.
Shopping
Soldiers in the US Army as well as their spouses and children have access to the commissaries on base. The commissary, also known as a supermarket, food mart or bodega, offers a variety of food and drink items, clothing, shoes and other items or merchandise you or your family may need to sustain your quality of living. Commissaries are located on the Army base and are available at large discounts. You can also find various shopping outlets for purchasing your Army uniforms and supplies needed for work.
Community Support
The US Army provides plenty of community support including the Installation Volunteer Program and the Army Family Action Plan (AFAP). The Installation Volunteer Program offers detailed information about joining the US Army and details advantages and benefits available to you. You will also get information about volunteering for local hospitals, churches, recreation programs and social activities.