Can a Spouse Relocate to the Same Base if They Are in Different Branches of the Military?
Transferring to the same base with a spouse, especially when they are in different branches of the military, can be challenging. This article explores the possibilities and alternatives for spouses seeking to live closer to their partner's assigned base.
General Rules and Exceptions
The general rule is that spouses residing in different branches of the military cannot be assigned to the same base. The reason is simple: particular bases have certain job requirements and specialties that align with specific branches of the military, such as the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
For instance, the U.S. Army base in Fort Hood, Texas, requires specific military specialties that do not match the Navy's torpedo technician role. Therefore, assigning a Navy technician to Fort Hood would not be feasible.
Proximity and Shared Bases
While direct assignment to the same base is rare, spouses can find themselves living in close proximity to their partner. This is often achieved through joint military bases that host members from multiple branches of the military.
NAS Pensacola and Eglin AFB, Florida: These two military installations are located in close proximity to each other. While the Air Force operates Eglin AFB, Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola is the primary training center for Naval Aviation. This proximity offers spouses the opportunity to find jobs and live near their partners. Ft. Eustis and Langley AFB, Virginia: Here, the Army's Fort Eustis and the Air Force's Langley AFB are two military installations that provide numerous employment opportunities for both branches. Living in one of these areas allows military spouses to find suitable jobs and potentially be near their partners.Joint Base Opportunities
One of the best alternatives for spouses seeking to live closer to their partners is a Joint Base. These bases are designed to accommodate multiple branches, ensuring that military families can be together despite being in different branches of the military.
Joint Base Andrews, Maryland: This base is a prime example. Joint Base Andrews houses military members from all branches, including the Air Force and the Maryland National Guard. For both members of the military, jobs must be available that necessitate a presence at the Joint Base for the assignment to be considered.Reserve Command Bases
An additional option is to look for bases that are controlled by a Reserve command. These bases are often smaller and can offer a mix of military branches, but they are designated for reserve personnel. An example is Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, which was formerly Carswell AFB.
Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth supports all branches of the U.S. military, making it a viable option for spouses who want to live together. This base has a diverse range of employment opportunities, catering to various military needs.
Conclusion
In summary, while direct assignment to the same base may not always be possible for spouses in different branches of the military, there are several viable alternatives. Proximity-based bases like NAS Pensacola and Eglin AFB, Joint Bases like Andrews, and Reserve-controlled bases offer spouses the opportunity to find employment and live close to their partners.
For more information or specific questions about military relocation and spouse assignment, contact your local military installation's Base Operations or personnel office. They can provide accurate and detailed information tailored to your situation.