Last updated on July 22nd, 2019 at 11:42 pm
Last Updated on July 22, 2019 by
The Mississippi Gulf Coast is one of the most hospitable places on earth. If you are in the Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, Marines or National Guard, you have come to the right place. There is a significant population of retired former military. There are several active bases on the Gulf Coast including NASA.
Many restaurants offer discounts if you are active, retired and if you have a drivers license with “Vet”, you are included. Some discounts are restricted just to those in uniform and a few will give discounts only to active duty members. I am an Air Force Vet and I have no trouble receiving discounts all over the coast.
Not only are there discounts at restaurants, Lowes gives military 10% off almost everything everyday. While that is nice, how about their “Veteran Only” parking. At the D’Iberville store there are four dedicated spots near the entrance just for us Vets and of course active duty.
It’s not just the discounts, it’s the attitude. People on the Gulf Coast appreciate the military since some of them were in uniform and those who were not know someone who is or was. There is a genuine appreciation for those who are and have served.
When someone knows that you have served they will generally thank you for that service. I came to the Gulf Coast from a state where there are military serving but there was little if any recognition. I know that none of us serves or served just so that people would thank you and offer discounts. We served for many reasons but one stands out, we served because it was our duty and we wanted to give back.
Members of my family have served in the War of Independence, Civil War, WWII and I was in the Air Force during the Vietnam war. I have little doubt that some family members even served in conflicts between the big ones listed above. I seriously doubt that anyone in my family served because of the money, fame because they could be thanked. It’s just what we do.
Back to those of you who serve and who have served should ask if there is a military consideration from any company you do business with. I know that our property management company prefers to rent to members of the military because they are respectful of others property and are responsible in general.
If you are active duty and will be in the area for a few years, consider buying a home using your VA benefit. Zero down is a good thing and the payment may be lower than what you may be paying in rent. Some sellers can be convinced to pay some or all of your closing costs.
I was working with another agent through our KEYLADDER program for investors and a young couple in the military were able to purchase a duplex home as their primary residence. By closing time, they simply collected the key, paid nothing for it and had income coming in from the other unit to help offset the mortgage payment. This was done using their VA loan benefit.
Enroll in one of the many education venues offered on the Gulf Coast. Public and private schools will work with active duty and vets to use the VA education benefit. Why not pick up a degree or learn something new.
There are many other benefits offered to active and former members of the military including assistance if the military member must deploy.
