Pioneer Services Blog Posts - 2014
December 29, 2014
Whether it’s making a resolution, eating a special meal, or drinking a favorite beverage, people all over the world have some creative (and even unusual) ways to ring in the New Year. Here’s a look at a few of them.
December 19, 2014
It’s our hope that your season is bright with memories, warm with love and merry with laughter no matter the miles that stand between—or bring closer—you and the ones you love.
December 17, 2014
Most numbers associated with the holiday season revolve around how many people are on your shopping list and the amount of your gift budget. This infographic highlights a few other interesting and notable numbers surrounding the holiday season.
December 10, 2014
The holidays are fast approaching, with only a few weeks left to get what you need for everyone on your list. We take a look at some options that cover the entire price range and, hopefully, can help you wrap up some last minute shopping.
November 25, 2014
- by
Allen Usry
It’s important to know your limit before you start to shop—that way your holiday cheer doesn't turn into a holiday debt hangover. This blog will give you some tips and tricks on how to spend wisely this season.
November 21, 2014
We all have our Thanksgiving favorites—for some it’s the turkey, others sweet potatoes, and still others pumpkin pie. But why not mix it up a bit this year? We have some unusual (and some might think downright strange) recipe ideas.
November 10, 2014
We celebrate 239 years of the strength of our nation's Marines—warriors by land, air and sea. See what makes them unique from their rifleman’s creed to the way they deploy and the aircraft they fly.
November 7, 2014
Our military veterans sacrificed a great deal for our nation, so it’s only right that we find ways to thank them. On Veteran’s Day they will be thanked with steep discounts to a number of retailers, restaurants, and attractions and we provide some information on how to get those deals.
November 5, 2014
It might seem like Christmas is far off—after all, there’s still Halloween and Thanksgiving to get through first! But now is actually a great time to start saving up for the holiday spending season, and there are a few ways you can do it.
October 29, 2014
As Halloween approaches and stories about haunted houses and spooky apparitions are told, we take a look at some great military ghost stories—from military installations to ships to aircraft.
October 23, 2014
Many non-profit organizations are in desperate need of volunteers, but many people who would like to give their time aren’t even sure where to start. We have a few tips and links that can help you find the perfect way to give back.
October 13, 2014
As the United States Navy celebrates its 239th birthday we take a look at some of the key ships throughout its history—from those powered by the wind to modern nuclear-powered vessels.
October 7, 2014
- by
Guest Contributor
The unemployment rate for veterans who’ve served since 9/11 is significantly higher than the civilian rate. Guest contributor Al Bowman of MoneyCrashers.com shares some thoughtful tips for veterans on the job hunt.
October 2, 2014
As the years go by, the amount of stuff we have tends to increase. Of course, much of it stays in boxes or basements, just collecting dust. It’s “Get Organized Week,” so now is a good time to clearing out that clutter. (It might even make you some money!)
September 30, 2014
Saving up for retirement is a no-brainer. The key is knowing how much to save so that you can enjoy your golden years, rather than worrying about your income. We have a few tips that might give you a hand in figuring out how much you’ll need.
September 25, 2014
Everyone has a cause they support, whether it’s wounded warriors, environmental issues, or animals. The key is to give with your heart while using your head. We have a few tips on charitable giving that might make your decision on where to give a bit easier.
September 23, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Looking for creative ways to find bargains online? Government surplus auctions might be a viable option. In this post, the first in our series on internet auctions, we take a look at government surplus sales and how they can help you save.
September 19, 2014
Whether a prisoner of war or missing in action, there are still more than 80,000 Americans missing from World War II up to the 1991 Gulf War. So this POW-MIA Recognition Day, let’s all take some time to think about and remember those who have yet to come home.
September 16, 2014
It’s that time of year again: when the branches hold special balls and formal events to celebrate a branch’s history or the holidays. Whether you’re an old veteran of the ball scene, or a newlywed spouse going to your first ball, we have a few tips that can help you make the most of the experience.
September 11, 2014
Our nation has changed a great deal since that day 13 years ago, but the one thing that hasn’t is the American spirit.
September 8, 2014
Home ownership has long been part of the American dream. Taking care of a home, however, can sometimes be a nightmare, especially if there is a lot of work to be done. Hiring a contractor might make the remodel or revamping process a lot easier—as long as you do your homework first.
September 4, 2014
There are all kinds of things and places around our homes that seem benign to us, but that can be dangerous—and even deadly!—to young children. Thankfully there are many ways to ensure your little one is safe and secure.
September 2, 2014
World War II took an incredible toll on almost everyone on almost every continent. So when the Japanese formally surrendered on Sept. 2, 1945, the world celebrated the news in ways it had never celebrated before. To honor the 79th anniversary of VJ Day, we take a pictorial trip through those revelries.
August 29, 2014
The Space Shuttle Discovery launched into orbit August 30, 1984. It wound up flying more missions, for more miles, than any other orbiter. We take a look at its impressive record.
August 26, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Tuesday, August 26th is National Dog Day. To celebrate, we take a brief look back at the history of working dogs in the military, discuss challenges facing our four-legged friends today, and provide some resources for those of you who want to get involved.
August 21, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
In the month since the Ice Bucket Challenge went viral and started to gain momentum, the ALS Association has already raise $31.5 million for research funding. Here we highlight some videos featuring service members and people connected to the military.
August 19, 2014
National Aviation Day is a time to learn about and celebrate our nation’s long and proud history of flight. We take a look back at some of the iconic planes in U.S. history, from the Wright Flyer of 1903 all the way to today’s B-2 stealth bomber.
August 13, 2014
Due to frequent moves that often come without much warning, many military members and their families wind up renting a home or apartment. While getting out of a lease used to be challenging, there are some special laws that can protect military families when it’s time to move.
August 11, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
August 14th is Navajo Code Talkers Day, where we officially recognize not only the Navajo, but all Native American service members who helped transform native languages into complex, coded systems used for transmitting communications over radio and telephone during World War I and II.
August 7, 2014
On this day in 1782, then-General George Washington created the Award of Merit as a way to reward enlisted soldiers who had distinguished themselves through their service. This idea was revived after WWI, and is now called The Purple Heart.
August 4, 2014
The Coast Guard is a vital part of our national defense, ensuring that our shores, ships, and those who sail upon the seas are safe. As it celebrates its 224th birthday, we take a look at the Coast Guard’s long and rich history.
July 31, 2014
Summer break is one of the best things about being a kid. But it can also be a challenge for parents—especially for those who don’t want their children to just sit inside and play video games for three straight months. So we came up with some fun—and affordable—ways to get your kids outside and staying cool.
July 29, 2014
While no one has ever joined the military to get rich, many have done so to provide a better standard of living than they could in the civilian sector. But how has military pay changed over the years? We take a look at military pay from the Revolutionary War until modern times.
July 24, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Sites like Netflix, Pandora, and Hulu offer streaming content online, but there’s a catch: you have to be in the United States to use them. So how do you access them if you’re overseas on deployment? A VPN might be the answer you’re looking for.
July 22, 2014
While kids often get excited about getting their back-to-school clothes and supplies, parent sometimes get a bit nervous when figuring out how to pay for it all. If your kid is getting ready for the new school year, these tips might save you some money.
July 18, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Sometimes you just need a good laugh. In the spirit of military humor, we’ve collected photographic evidence of what can happen when budget cuts go wrong. Whether you’re an E-1 or an officer, budget cuts affect everyone and sometimes all you can do is laugh.
July 15, 2014
Military Consumer Protection Day was created to empower military members, veterans, and their families to make smart decisions with their finances, and to help them detect and avoid scams. And the effort for 2014 is now underway.
July 10, 2014
Money problems are a key obstacle to a military’s operational readiness—if they’re worried about money, they’re not going to be focused on their military duties and can even lose security clearances. Service members can take steps to try and ensure a bright future for both their money and their military careers.
July 8, 2014
July is National Parks Month, and with parks and recreation areas available in all 50 states (and even a few territories), now is a fantastic time to pay a visit to one of America’s wide-open spaces. And as a bonus, military families get special deals on admission.
July 3, 2014
The Fourth of July is our nation’s premier holiday—a time to visit family and friends, honor our nation’s founding and, of course, blow up some fireworks. We take a look at this truly American holiday by the numbers: from how many hot dogs we eat to the distances we travel.
July 2, 2014
Military members are trained to adapt and confront whatever the enemy might do. But even the best trained and equipped troops can fall victim to an enemy they can feel but can’t see: the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. It’s National UV Awareness month, and we give a few tips to keep yourself safe while in the sun.
July 1, 2014
Credit cards have become integral parts of our modern economy, allowing people to cover unplanned expenses or get things when they don’t have the cash. They can also be a bit too easy to use, leading to out of control debt. We take a look at some of the dos and don’t of using credit cards.
June 26, 2014
Borrowing money is something almost everyone has to do at some point or another. For military families, the options can be somewhat limiting due to their relative youth and short credit histories, as well as federal regulations. We look at some considerations these families should keep in mind when choosing a lender.
June 23, 2014
Since 1939, a group of volunteers have served to help ensure our nation’s waterways are safe. As members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, these individuals might not be an official part of the military, but they are vital components to our nation’s security—and we wish them a happy anniversary.
June 19, 2014
Going on vacation is a summer tradition for many families, and spending some R&R time at a resort can be a good deal. Military families have a special perk: several military-only resorts and discounts at major destinations.
June 17, 2014
As concerns about federal spending and downsizing continue to rise, some military families could start to pulling back from their retirement savings. This, however, is not the best option, especially for younger families who could have nice retirement plans if they continue to save early and often.
June 13, 2014
We celebrate the 239th birthday of the U.S. Army by taking a look at the different types of battle dress uniforms (BDUs) they’ve worn throughout their history, from the Revolutionary War all the way up to our efforts in Afghanistan.
June 11, 2014
Flying the American flag on special days is a great way to show your love and respect for our nation. It is important, however, that you do so within the rules of the Federal Flag Code. This blog takes a look at those rules to ensure you’re flying Old Glory correctly.
June 9, 2014
In decades past, Father’s Day gifts were usually something handmade by the kids, or involving ties of questionable style and taste. Nowadays, however, there are literally thousands of unique and interesting gifts available. We take a look at some of them, broken down by interests.
June 6, 2014
Seventy years ago today, thousands of men embarked on the biggest amphibious assault in human history. Now known as “D-Day,” it was a turning point that changed both the war and the trajectory of human history.
June 5, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
As the NBA Finals ramp up, we take a look at Elgin Baylor’s 14-year Hall-of-Fame career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where one season of his prime was cut short serving active duty in the U.S. Army at Fort Lewis.
May 29, 2014
Giving back to those who have served our nation is a great way to show appreciation for all they’ve done. Knowing where to do so can be a bit more difficult. So we’ve come up with a few ways you can volunteer your time and energy to help our country’s veterans.
May 28, 2014
Tales of heroism and honor rising up out of war are found in every culture and every time period. For us in America, we’ve been putting our culture’s stories on film for more than eight decades. We take a look at some of the true people and stories behind the movies.
May 23, 2014
For many of us, Memorial Day is just a three-day weekend that signals the start of summer. But for those who serve our nation, the day means so much more.
May 21, 2014
Pioneer Services recently partnered with the National Foundation for Credit Counseling and Harris Poll to conduct a financial survey of military members. The results were revealing, especially the anxieties felt by military families over a possible military pay freeze. You might help calm some of those fears by getting your family ready now.
May 14, 2014
There are dozens and dozens of museums and memorials around the nation, with every timeframe and conflict in our nation’s history honored in some way or another. With May being Military Appreciation Month, now is a great time to check out a few them.
May 12, 2014
Being able to relax and have fun is necessary to maintain troop morale. This is why the military manages many different recreational centers and locations—including nearly 200 golf courses varying from PGA-quality to one-hole wonders. So as the weather heats up, we take a look at some of the more notable U.S. military golf courses around the world.
May 9, 2014
There are numerous rewards, big and small, to being a military spouse. There are also times when it can be downright difficult. Thankfully, you do not have to go it alone—there are numerous websites out there designed to help military spouses when times get tough.
May 8, 2014
On May 8, 1945, Germany surrendered, ending war in Europe. We take a look at some of the celebrations on that day through pictures from the era.
May 5, 2014
The military is always looking for an edge in battle and has spent billions upon billions of dollars conducting research into countless areas. While not everything worked according to plan, many different inventions were huge successes. We take a look at a few of them that have had drastic impacts on our world.
May 2, 2014
Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating, almost addicting experience. For those in the military, riding also involves more rules and regulations than found in the civilian sector. Find out what some of those rules are and get links to more in-depth information.
May 1, 2014
May is Military Appreciation Month, but many—maybe even most—people aren’t exactly sure how to show their appreciation for everything the military does. The truth is that there are plenty of ways, both big and small, to say “Thank you!” to service members and their families.
April 30, 2014
While there are numerous advantages to being a military kid, it can also be tough. Thankfully, there are a number of programs and services that can assist children through the difficulties that often go hand in hand with military life.
April 28, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
With Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Android, Apple and about half a dozen other competitors all vying to etch out their footing in the e-reader marketplace, how do you go about deciding which product is right for you?
April 25, 2014
Just get a promotion? Loving the extra money each payday? If you keep spending the same and focus toward the future you might be surprised how much you can benefit. We take a visual look at how doing so can pay off—including how you might be able to retire a millionaire.
April 24, 2014
Today is bring your child to work day during the Month of the Military Child. The Pioneer Services team put our one-day intern to work blogging about what the military means to her through the eyes of a 10 year old.
April 22, 2014
Earth Day was created to remind us all to take care of the only place in the universe we call home. Teaching kids to appreciate planet Earth is both easy and fun, no matter their age or your budget.
April 21, 2014
The Spanish American War only lasted around six months—very short for an international conflict. In that time, however, the U.S. went from being a nation still suffering growing pains to a becoming a dominant player on the world stage.
April 18, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Through all the trials and tribulations that come with military life, one thing is certain: you've got to keep your sense of humor. This post highlights some classic comic strips as well as a few modern webcomics that help you enjoy the lighter side of service.
April 16, 2014
There are multitudes of modern ways to track and manage your money, from robust websites to simple smartphone apps. We take a look at a few of the free ones that might help you take better control of your finances.
April 16, 2014
There are multitudes of modern ways to track and manage your money, from robust websites to simple smartphone apps. We take a look at a few of the free ones that might help you take better control of your finances.
April 14, 2014
It’s not easy being a parent to any child, but it’s particularly challenging if your child has special needs. Add being in the military into the mix, and things get even tougher. Thankfully, there are a number of services and resources that can help.
April 11, 2014
Forty four years ago, the Apollo 13 mission took off from Kennedy Space Center. And what happened for the next five days went on to help define the resourcefulness—and dangers—of the space program.
April 9, 2014
Getting a college degree online can be a fantastic way for service members to continue their education, allowing them to study on their own time no matter where they are stationed. Here are a few tips to make the process easier.
April 7, 2014
College costs continue to rise, so finding ways to pay for it has become almost as important as choosing a school. Military dependents have a distinct advantage in this regard thanks to the availability of a wide range of scholarships and other assistance.
April 3, 2014
Having a “Man Cave” has almost become a necessity for many homeowners, with dreams of fancy electronics and theater-style seating dancing around men’s’ heads. Where you have a man-sized budget or a not so much, here are a few things you’re going to want.
April 1, 2014
Being a military kid can be tough, with long deployments and frequent moves adding to an already difficult situation. But there are a number of advantages to the military life as well—and here are a few of them.
March 28, 2014
Making a will or trust isn’t something that’s high on most peoples’ priority lists—especially if you are young. It is, however, something we all need to do, and this blog takes a top-level look at the different types of end-of-life documents.
March 26, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Though they were grounded for most of 2013, the new year marks the return of the three officially sanctioned aerial demonstration teams of the U.S. military: the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds and Golden Knights.
March 24, 2014
You’ve heard about credit scores and how important they are, but have you ever heard of a credit-based insurance score (CBIS)? Knowing what a CBIS is, and how it works, might help you save money in the long run.
March 21, 2014
Stress relief as part of your regular regiment of self-care and training will keep you healthier, happier and just more fun to be around. We take a look at some ways that you can lower your stress and stay in top shape mentally and physically.
March 19, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Between DoD career advisors, big-name job search sites and social media platforms, there are plenty of resources available to help military spouses looking for a new job. This post offers some helpful tips to use as a baseline in your hunt.
March 17, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Saint Patrick's Day is a celebration of Irish culture and religious tradition, but did you know military involvement in parades dates back to 1762? Learn more about this unofficial holiday as we celebrate Irish heritage.
March 14, 2014
Cutting expenses can often be difficult to do. After all, if you feel like you’re depriving yourself, there’s a good chance you won’t stick with your financial plan. Here are some ways to reduce spending without giving up everything you enjoy.
March 12, 2014
Seventy-two years ago, the Army’s Quartermaster Corps established a War Dog program to provide trained military working dogs to the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. But they served with honor long before then.
March 10, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Although its Patriot Express loan program expired at the end of the 2013, the SBA remains dedicated to helping small business owners with military backgrounds. A new program, Veterans Advantage, will run through September, 2014 in its place.
March 7, 2014
Worrying about how much life insurance you have is something you don’t do when young, but will appreciate when you’re older. Find out how your life insurance needs change over time and after different events in your life.
March 5, 2014
Women have long served in various military roles, both on and off the battlefield. In honor of Women’s History Month, we take a look at a few key numbers from their 238 years of service to the nation.
March 3, 2014
Today, we celebrate 99 years of the United States Navy Reserve being part of the United States' maritime strategy by taking a look back at its long and storied history—from World War I all the way to the current war on terrorism.
February 28, 2014
Space Available Travel can be a great resource for getting away on the cheap. The key to a positive experience is to ensure your travel plans are flexible enough to accommodate the constantly changing military flight schedule.
February 26, 2014
So what type of debt is right for you? Well, that depends on if you want to save money on your monthly payment, or on the amount of interest you pay. This infographic takes a look at some common borrowing options to see how each offers something different.
February 24, 2014
By making small and regular contributions to savings—short or long term—and sticking with it, anyone can set themselves up for financial security later in life. All you have to do is think like a squirrel.
February 21, 2014
Getting college credit for your military experience is a great way to earn a degree faster —and a whole lot cheaper! Find out more about how you can get the credit you've earned for your service to the nation.
February 19, 2014
From Ghengis Kahn’s use of horses, to our current use of drones, technological advancements in military tech and tools have proven to make a significant difference. And developments continue to evolve and astonish the minds of friends and foes alike.
February 19, 2014
From Ghengis Kahn’s use of horses, to our current use of drones, technological advancements in military tech and tools have proven to make a significant difference. And developments continue to evolve and astonish the minds of friends and foes alike.
February 17, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
Whether you know it as Washington's Birthday or Presidents' Day, the third Monday in February is a time to take pause and celebrate the history of the presidency of the United States and the impact Washington had on our country's history.
February 14, 2014
- by
Jake Butler
If you're not able to find the military gear you need at an exchange or in a regular retail store, shopping online is a viable alternative and there are tons of sites out there to help. This post offers the guidance you need to buy with confidence.
February 12, 2014
New Year’s resolutions can get old hat. Make one this year that you can stick to—a healthier you! We’re sparing you’re the calorie counting and focusing on getting things in motion by putting you in motion, with exercise plans for the whole family.
February 10, 2014
Valentine’s Day is when you’re supposed to show those close to you how much you love them. When that special someone is deployed, however, sharing the love can be difficult. We have a few ways to make it easier.
February 7, 2014
If you’re getting money back from the IRS, you have a lot of choices for what to do with it—some practical, some not. Here are five options of what you can do with those funds in ways that can save you money in the long run.