July - September 2025
THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER FOR SOLDIERS WITH 17 OR MORE YEARS OF SERVICE
COVER STORY
Shaping the future together
For those who have worn the uniform with pride, transitioning to civilian life can be a profound change. The Army isn’t just a career – it’s a calling built on discipline, camaraderie, and service to the nation. As service members prepare to retire, many wonder what comes next. While their time in uniform may be ending, the opportunity to continue serving – through mentorship, instruction, and leadership – remains. U.S. Army Cadet Command offers meaningful ways to stay connected by guiding...
PLANNING GUIDANCE
Honoring the heart of our military
Military spouses are the unsung heroes of our military community. Their unwavering dedication, resilience and incredible adaptability are the backbone of our military families and communities. Military spouses manage households, raise families, often pursue careers or volunteer tirelessly...
Ten principles for a military retirement
Retirement is a process, not an event. If you think of retirement as a ceremony, you’re already in trouble. Retirement is also NOT just out processing...
Veteran Readiness & Employment
Since you’re reading Change of Mission, it’s safe to assume that you are getting ready to make some big career decisions in the not-so-distant future. It is never too early to start thinking about your next career move, whether it will involve staying on active duty or transitioning to civilian...
Ready, Set, Go...retirement
Our motto in Army Retirement Services is “Retirement is a process, not an event,” meaning there are many steps to take in preparing yourself and your family for this milestone. As with most processes, some tasks need to be accomplished before...
Retiring? Explore FEDVIP options
If retiring from service is on the horizon, you’re likely considering dental and vision benefits as you transition to civilian life. The good news is that coverage through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP)...
Getting care on travel with TRICARE
Do you have an upcoming trip? TRICARE covers you whether you travel across the country or around the world. Whether you’re heading out for business or taking a family vacation, understanding your coverage options helps you stay prepared for any health issues that...
Changes -- Real ID & NextGen ID card
On May 7, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security began enforcing the Real ID Act. The purpose of Real ID is to standardize what forms of identification or documentation can be used to access certain federal facilities, board domestic commercial flights, and in some cases...
POST RETIREMENT PERSPECTIVES
From duty to legacy in civilian life
For many Reserve Soldiers, retirement signifies the end of a part-time military career, resulting in a profound transformation in identity, shaped by years of duty, discipline, and dual service. Instilled attributes such as discipline, camaraderie, and a strong sense of purpose that...
Overcoming obstacles
I recently met the chief of enlisted incentives for the Army, Directorate of Military Personnel Management (DMPM), G-1, Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA).He is “the bonus guy,” as he likes to say, that is, he is responsible for overseeing the pot of money allocated specifically for Army...
AAFES: Expanded Home Depot assortment
Tax-free shopping and military-exclusive pricing are lifelong benefits for Soldiers. In further partnership with The Home Depot, the Exchange is greatly expanding its assortment to include nearly every home improvement...
Are you in the Retired Reserve
waiting on a non-regular retirement?
- If you haven't already, sign up for a "Future Retiree" myPay account. This is a convenient way to keep your contact information updated with DFAS during the gray area period so that you receive important news from the Army and DFAS. Plus, you will receive a reminder when your window to apply for retired pay is approaching!
- If you think you might qualify for a reduced age retirement, visit the HRC website for elibility information. If you are eligible, contact your RSO for assistance in calculating your retirement eligibility date.
Current Issue
Read or download the entire newsletter in PDF format.