At least "we" have our military retirement and the medical. My DH went to seminary got his masters degree and is now a pastor at the church we attended since being stationed in this area. I had to go to work when he retired, our kids were then in 6th, 8th, & 11th grades with one in her first year of college. We still earn less than when he was active duty combining his retire pay, pastor pay and my pay (I work part time for an accountant) Only way we were able to do that was because we still at least had our medical insurance. We also live near (10 miles) a base so I go out there and do our grocery shopping and stuff. My DH was an avaitor, he flew P-3's and C-130's. He misses the flying but enjoys working at the church.