Love the great outdoors? Are you getting ready to PCS or looking for a new contract position? Maybe you should check out some key locations for outdoor recreation. You could potentially land one of these great military bases for your next assignment with some determination and luck. Along with weather, work, and weekend enjoyment, each service has positions at the locations mentioned below, making it possible for your next duty location.
Fort Carson, Colorado
If you know anything about the Rocky Mountain State, you have heard of Fort Carson, CO. Peterson Air Force Base, Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, and the United States Air Force Academy are just some of the numerous military facilities in nearby Colorado Springs area.
Almost any contract organization you can think of has work in the “Springs”. There are numerous contract positions to be found on ClearanceJobs.com with available civil service positions for the area on USAJOBS.gov. Getting an assignment on active duty is a wonderful experience for most. But why are the Springs such a coveted location?
In the middle of Colorado, the mountains provide a perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts. From skiing to mountain climbing to whitewater rafting, you’ll find incredible outdoor adventures here. Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, the mountain views never get old. Just a few of the outdoor recreational attractions are Cheyenne Mountain State Park, Pikes Peak, Copper Mountain, cog train and Garden of the Gods.
MacDill Air Force Base, Florida
MacDill Air Force Base is conveniently located in the center of Tampa, FL. If you can’t find something to do here, you are not looking. Even though it is technically an Air Force base, U.S. Special Operations Command, U.S. Central Command, and many of their component commands are headquartered here. Because these are joint positions, regardless of branch of military service, or desire for a contracting or civil service position, it is not as difficult as you may think to find a job.
But you may be saying, “What is there to do?” With beautiful beaches, boating, fishing, fantastic dining, and nightlife, along with the classic “Florida Vacation” activities, you will never be bored. If you like to dive, you can do that nearby in the gulf or inland in the many beautiful springs. If theme parks are your thing, nearby Orlando has you covered. Don’t forget to visit the Space Coast – just over two hours away.
Hawaii
Numerous outings and experiences are waiting for you in Hawaii. Perhaps you believe that this is only a dream location. However, it may be easier to get here than you think! With U.S. Pacific Command and every service having facilities in the area, it is possible to find contract and civil service position or obtain military assignment. The only question is that of personal finances. Even with most receiving an offsets in pay, it can be difficult to find housing.
Military bases on Oahu include, Joint Base Pearl Harbor, Naval Station Pearl Harbor, Hickam Air Force Base, Schofield Barracks, Fort Shafter, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Tripler Army Medical Center, Coast Guard Sector Honolulu. Every major contractor can be found on Hawaii.
Even with cost of living and the current Red Hill issues, you can still find this to be an extraordinary assignment. You never have to look far for extraordinary outdoor recreational activities to enjoy. Climbing, oceans, surf, boating, fishing, scuba or just some of the multitude of experiences you can enjoy on your weekends off. If you’re into history, there are plenty of military sites to enjoy. You can experience a snow shower on Mauna Kea in the morning and surf in the tropic waters in the afternoon. Hawaii is a perfect location for outdoor adventures.
Final Thought on Military Bases
As a service member, contractor, or civil servant, you will likely get the opportunity to change locations. Determine what is important to you, research activities and interests at the locations available to you, and develop your tailored dream list. Consider every assignment a journey and explore the surroundings. Love it, and you will return your whole life. If it is less than you desired, enjoy the local opportunities and culture; treating your time as an adventure. Your assignment is not forever. One thing is certain in the military, things change, and you will move on!
