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Two days ago, the pilot of a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B ejected from the stealth fighter soon after takeoff from Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. Their survival was due, in no small part, to their Martin-Baker US16E ejection seat. The remarkable story of these aircrew escape systems stretches back to the immediate postwar period, and it was 75 years ago today that the first Martin-Baker seat was used for real.

On Tuesday 28th May, an F-35B crashed shortly after take-off from Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque. The pilot successfully ejected using the Martin-Baker US16E Seat.

With Romania’s ongoing modernisation of military equipment, defence industry players have numerous opportunities to secure contracts.

For as many unknowns as exist with a military career, one thing is certain: there will always be stages of transition. PCS moves, military training or deployment, spousal unemployment, and childcare needs are just a few factors that impact a bottom line. By routinely evaluating your financial health, or the state of your money, servicemembers and families can plan for the (un)expected and adjust as needed.
Here are four tips for evaluating financial health — a practice that should be done several times a year. 
1.

The death of a servicemember is one of the most tragic outcomes of military duty and something none of us want to think about. But when it happens, fortunately, there are services and resources available to help surviving spouses and dependents through their tragedy. In addition to bereavement services offered by the military, AAFMAA (American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association) provides Survivor Assistance Services during times of greatest need for military families.

It’s the time of year when military households take stock of their life, whether that’s because of an impending PCS move or simply the change of season. Financial readiness is a key part of that process since it not only has a direct effect on a servicemember’s career but also the overall quality of life for a military family.
Unfortunately, it’s a part of the process that many servicemembers neglect.

“Start with the basics,” that’s good advice for servicemembers and their families when it comes to creating a budget.
Jerry Quinn, Chief Operating Officer and Secretary for American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association (AAFMAA), has worked in finance throughout both his military and civilian careers. He’s also intimately familiar with the experiences faced by today’s military, based on his 39 years in the Army Reserve, including climbing the ranks as a junior enlisted soldier.

When you’re in the military, surprises come with the territory. But one thing you don’t want to leave to chance is your family’s financial security. Sure, Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is like your basic issue kit — it’s there for everyone, offering up to $500,000 in coverage. But just like your gear, sometimes you must add a few things to ensure you’re fully prepared for whatever is coming next.
What it is (and what it isn’t)
Think of SGLI coverage as a temporary shield instead of a long-term fortress.

If you’ve contemplated joining the military — or maybe you’re already in the process of enlisting — then you’ve got two primary tasks in front of you: prepare for Basic Training and research what happens after you’ve survived finished. No matter which branch of the military you join, there are three major milestones after Basic: graduation, specialty/assignment training, and reporting to your first duty station. 
Keep in mind this is referring to enlisting in the military.

In the military, change is a constant, especially when it comes to relocating. Once you’ve received your relocation orders, it’s time to initiate your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) prep. Familiarizing yourself with the benefits you’re entitled to and starting the required documentation early can significantly ease your transition, helping you avoid a stressful, 11th-hour rush.
Travel expenses
No matter where you’re headed, you’re entitled to ship your Household Goods (HHG) at the expense of the military.

Transitioning out of the military might seem straightforward — after all, servicemembers are given an out-processing checklist — but there is a lot to consider when setting yourself up for success after the structure of the military. From squaring away finances, medical records, insurance, and more, it can be overwhelming. Luckily, AAFMAA (American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association) has prepared one of the most in-depth checklists out there. Not only is it thorough, but it starts you off as early as three years out.