For Guard and Reserve spouses who are more likely to call one location home, finding employment perhaps isn’t quite as difficult as it is for those of who often change stations.
But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t carry its own challenges. After years of riding the traditional employee train, many Guard and Reserve spouses suddenly find themselves asking their bosses to make special concessions thanks to deployments or mobilizations. No laws exist to protect the employment of Guard and Reserve spouses over deployment – it’s up to the employer to do the right thing.
And many do. The National Guard and Reserve even has an annual awards program to recognize employers who go above and beyond for servicemembers and their spouses.
Because the award is restricted to National Guard and Reserve only, it doesn’t give Active Duty spouses the chance to call-out their outstanding employers. Yes, finding a job can be very difficult – but there are employers out there who are not only willing to hire military spouses, but who are willing to do what they can to make life easier for them.
Have you experienced an outstanding employer? What did they do to make your work life easier in the face of your military lifestyle?
