USS Stethem DDG63 Ombudsman

04/28/2026

04/11/2026

We all know the "PCS Pivot"—trying to find a new job every few years is exhausting. But did you know the Federal Government has a special "hiring path" specifically to help military spouses get hired faster?
If you’re looking for a stable career with great benefits, USAJOBS.gov has tools designed just for you:
🟢 The "Green Circle" Icon: When you're searching for jobs, look for the green icon with two white interlocking circles. This means the job is open to the Military Spouse Hiring Authority.
✨ Why it’s a Game Changer:
• Non-Competitive Hiring: Agencies can hire you directly without you having to compete against the general public.
• No Geographic Limits: You no longer have to be on PCS orders to use this! You can apply for remote federal jobs or local positions at any time.
• Preference for DoD Jobs: If you're applying for a civilian job on a military base, you often get "Military Spouse Preference" (MSP), which can move your resume to the top of the pile.
How to get started:
1. Create your profile at USAJOBS.gov.
2. Upload your docs: You’ll need your Marriage Certificate and a copy of your spouse's active duty orders (or DD-214 if applicable).
3. Filter your search: Select the "Military Spouses" filter on the right-hand side to see only the jobs meant for you.
Federal jobs offer the kind of portability and retirement benefits that make military life a little easier to manage. Let’s get those resumes ready!
💻 Start your search: https://www.usajobs.gov


BONUS TIP: Scroll back to my post from a few days ago for Military One Source! They offer help with reviewing resumes to help you stand out!

Search and apply for federal jobs. Learn about unique hiring paths for veterans, students and graduates, individuals with a disability, and more.

04/08/2026

Military life is full of transitions, but for our families with special needs, those transitions can be even more complex. Whether you’re dealing with an IEP that didn’t follow you to your new school or trying to navigate the EFMP system, Partners in PROMISE is here to help.
They are a military spouse-led organization dedicated to protecting the rights of military children in special education. Here is how they can support our command families for free:
🌟 Parent Mentor Consultations: Get one-on-one guidance from experts who understand both the military lifestyle and special education law.
📚 The Special Education Binder: A free, downloadable toolkit to help you organize your child’s records and stay prepared for every meeting.
💡 Expert Webinars & Podcasts: Learn about your rights under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and how to advocate for your child during a PCS.
📊 Research-Backed Advocacy: They use data from families like ours to push for policy changes at the highest levels of the DoD.
If your child has an IEP or 504 plan, or if you are currently enrolled in EFMP, this is a resource you’ll want in your back pocket.
💻 Check out their toolkit and resources: https://thepromiseact.org
📫 Subscribe to their newsletter for the latest updates on special education rights for military kids!

Our mission is to protect the rights of military children in special education and EFMP families. Need help? Request a free consultation.

04/07/2026

Navigating Navy life means managing a lot of moving parts—deployments, PCS cycles, and everything in between. As we look out for one another in this command, I want to make sure every family knows about Military OneSource.
Think of them as your 24/7 "everything" concierge. Because they are DoD-funded, these professional services come at no cost to you:
• 🧠 Confidential Counseling: Up to 12 free sessions per issue. It’s completely private (does not go to the command) and helps with stress, relationship tune-ups, or deployment blues.
• 💸 Money & Taxes: Access MilTax for free tax filing, or talk to a financial coach about budgeting and debt management.
• 🎓 Spouse Career & Education: Get personalized coaching for your job search or help applying for the MyCAA scholarship ($4,000 for eligible spouses!).
• 🏠 Moving & Housing: Use "Plan My Move" checklists and talk to experts to take the stress out of your next PCS.
• 🧸 Family & Fun: From the New Parent Support Program to free language learning (Mango) and a massive digital library for kids and adults, there is something for everyone.
Whether you have a quick question or need long-term support, they are ready for you 24/7/365.
📞 Call Anytime: 800-342-9647
💻 Explore Here: https://www.militaryonesource.mil

If you ever have trouble finding a specific resource or just need a starting point, feel free to reach out to me directly!

Active duty military resource website, offering 24/7 support for service members, spouses, their family and survivors on taxes, moving, benefits, MWR and more.

03/16/2026

Come and stock up on items you need!

STEP Headquarters:
📆 Saturday, March 21st
9:00am-12:00pm

Registration: https://vist.ly/4uv5j

Families will receive food, produce, diapers, clothing, shoes, and more!

Once registered, families will receive an email and/or a phone call during the week of the distribution with additional information, including their confirmed registration and address.

Please share this information with your networks and invite service members and families to sign up soon.

03/12/2026

Moving is part of the job, but gaps in your child’s education don’t have to be. ⚓️📚

PCS orders and new school districts can be a lot to juggle. Whether your student is trying to catch up in a new classroom or just needs a little extra help with tonight's homework, Tutor.com is available for FREE to our Navy families!

Why our families love it:
✅ Zero Cost: 100% funded by the DoD for Navy Active Duty, Reserve, and dependents.
✅ Bridge the Gaps: Expert help to navigate different state curriculums after a move.
✅ 24/7 Access: No appointments needed—connect to a live tutor in minutes.
✅ All Ages: Support for K-12 students, college students, and even spouses!
✅ 150+ Subjects: From early reading and math to SAT/ACT prep and essay reviews.

Let’s take the stress out of school transitions. Check out the link below to create your free account!

👉 Get started: https://military.tutor.com/home

03/11/2026

Fleet and family’s webinar series are SO helpful, with excellent resources and information that can be so valuable to our families!

03/10/2026

Stethem families - help us welcome our fearless and trusted CO… Mr. Walker!

Best wishes and gratitude to CO Sledge for his devotion and time with the command.

As always, we’re here for you and encourage you to reach out for support. Messenger is a great way to get a fast response. Have a great week 😊!

03/10/2026

USS Stethem families, please take a moment to read this letter from our Commanding Officer M. A. Walker.

-USS Stethem DDG63 Ombudsman

03/04/2026

Is insurance confusing? It can be for all of us at times, especially if you're new to Tricare! Here's some information about the different types of Tricare plans, and whether they required a referral or authorization. If you have questions, you can always call Triwest, at 888-874-9378 and they can look at your specific plan and let you know what to do to avoid unexpected medical bills!