Making Friends as a Military Wife

Every military wife knows the trials and tribulations that go along with frequent moves, deployments, separations and the uncertainty of the life that is before us.

While some people are naturally blessed with the presence and personality that draw people to them, the less articulate among us are left to try to slowly build friendships within an always changing community of people. But this does not necessarily mean that every shy or quiet wife has to live her life with the constant question of how to make friends.

The first stop for wives at a new post should be the newcomer's orientation brief. Many things are covered in this informative session including activities on and off post, local events, education, and housing to name a few. This a great place to get information about the installation and the surrounding area as well as to meet other new wives in the area. Consider getting involved in your Family Readiness Group (FRG). Not only will this keep you informed about important information but it will also give you the opportunity to volunteer and to meet other wives within the same unit or battalion as your spouse. Look into spouse clubs on post.

Spouse clubs exist to provide the surrounding areas with volunteerism and charitable contributions and also serve as a wonderful social outlet for wives. Army Community Service (ACS) is a great place to contact for volunteer opportunities on post. Not only will volunteering help build your resume it will also give you an outlet for meeting people. Also offered through ACS is Army Family Team Building (AFTB). AFTB offers classes to families on such topics as financial planning, communication, basic military benefits and more. This is a great place to go if you are new to military life and would like to learn more. Most will also offer free or discounted childcare while attending their classes or events.

Many wives get discouraged when they feel they have tapped into every resource available to them for meeting other wives. But remember, you are not limited to making friends only with other military wives. There is a wealth of friendship building opportunities in the communities that surround us. Community involvement such as volunteering, church or religious groups, parenting groups, community theatre and general enrichment classes offered at many local activity centers or community colleges can bring you to a variety of people that share your interests.

As a military spouse, you are allowed the opportunity to travel and meet people from many different backgrounds who might not have otherwise crossed your path. These friendships can withstand the test of time, distance and obstacles that military life can throw your way.