By Sheryl Garrett and Sue Hoppin

This is a how-to guide for military families who want to live to the fullest in the armed forces. Whether you're new to the armed forces or planning your latest relocation, this plain-English handbook has expert tips for overcoming the challenges and taking advantage of the benefits unique to life in the military.

From living on a base to financial planning to deployment, you'll discover how to get all the support your family needs.

• Grasp the boot camp basics - understand rank and military hierarchy, find your way around a base, and connect with others in the community.
  
• Take charge of your finances - decipher military compensation, handle your taxes, build credit, and invest for your family's future.
  
• Understand your military benefits - obtain health and dental insurance, utilize the family support centers, explore retirement benefits, and more.
  
• Raise a happy family - from housing and childcare to education and recreation, take advantage of all the military offers.
  
• Handle deployments - prepare for deployment, help children cope, stay connected with your loved one, and manage stress and anxiety.
  
• Transition out of the military - assess the financial benefits, retire from service, and plan for your next career.

• An overview of military versus civilian lifestyle.
  
• Your place in the military structure.
  
• Educational and employment opportunities.
  
• Family support centers, groups, and associations.
  
• The best benefits for military spouses.
  
• How to avoid scams against service members.
  
• A family's guide to military acronyms.
  
• Programs outside the military you can turn to for support.