The 2026 Reset: What’s on the horizon for military families in the New Year?
January often feels like a reset month. A pause after the holidays. A chance to reflect, recommit, and look ahead. For military families and leaders, and as we step into 2026, many of us are asking: What would you like to see evolve within our military community this year? Readiness, family support, and community well-being are not abstract ideas. They shape our unique but daily lives.
While you reflect on your personal goals and family milestones, let me share some key developments that will shape our military world in the months ahead. Three topics deserve our attention: the newly signed FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA); the historic America 250 celebration; and the inaugural Military Child World Expo, an exciting new event designed specifically for military families.
The FY26 NDAA: Wins and Work to Be Done
On December 18, 2025, President Trump signed the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) into law. Authorizing over $900 billion for defense, this bipartisan bill brings significant changes to our daily lives.
The Wins for Service Members:
Pay & Bonuses: A 3.8% pay raise for all service members, alongside expanded special pays and an increased Family Separation Allowance.
Housing & Quality of Life: Over $1.4B is dedicated to new barracks and housing. The bill also mandates housing hazard plans and includes provisions to improve food access via CAC.
Healthcare & Childcare: We are seeing more funding for military hospitals, improved travel reimbursement for specialty care, and an extension of the in-home childcare pilot program.
Education: Increased support for DoD schools and a revitalized Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to help families moving into the civilian world.
Areas for Continued Advocacy: Despite these wins, some critical needs remain unaddressed. The final bill did not include mandated coverage for assisted reproductive technology (IVF) for active-duty members. Additionally, it repeals all DEI offices and programs and removes protections for collective bargaining rights for DoD civilians. These are areas where many in our community feel further advocacy is essential to ensure every member feels supported and protected.
America 250: A Nation Celebrates
This Fourth of July brings something extraordinary: it’s the America 250 celebration! As a patriotic community, we have the unique opportunity to celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence not only as servicemembers and families, but as a nation marking a quarter-millennium of independence.
America 250 celebrations are already taking shape across the country, from local events to national commemorations. These gatherings offer more than fireworks and speeches; they create space to reflect on shared history and the evolving role of those who serve.
[Can you give a couple examples, maybe of the biggest ones? “Don’t miss the celebration in DC on [date], or the boat parade in____, along with many other ceremonies and recognitions throughout the country”
If you happen to reside in the following locations, “Save the Date” on your calendar for these notable events across the country:
America250 Float in the 137th Rose Bowl Parade (January 1, 2026); Pasadena, CA
America 250: A More Perfect Union — Special Exhibit (yearlong); Yorba Linda, CA
Freedom Fest 250 (June 19 – July 5, 2026); Marshall / Harrison County, TX
Sail250 Maryland & Airshow Baltimore (June 24 – 30, 2026); Baltimore, MD
Ridgefield America at 250 — July 4 Family Day and Kickoff (July 4, 2025); Ridgefield, CT
I encourage you to look into the celebrations being promoted in your "neck of the woods". It’s a rare opportunity to connect our service with the broader national story. Let us know which ones you attend and tag us in your photos on Facebook using our special #WeAreMSAN hashtag!
The Inaugural Military Child World Expo - 2026
Finally, something specifically for our youngest heroes! Don’t miss the 1st Annual Military Child World Expo in Crystal City, Virginia.
Scheduled for April 2026 during the Month of the Military Child, this expo is designed to celebrate the resilience of military-connected children. It will feature:
Youth Innovation Showcases and STEM zones.
The Torch of Care initiative to empower military youth.
Workshops focused on mental health, education equity, and future readiness.
Expo Floor, Youth Symposium and showcases
It is a long-overdue "global stage" for military children to be seen and heard beyond the gates of the installation. And while this expo promises to be a valuable resource for families navigating the unique challenges of military life, from frequent moves to deployment separations to educational transitions, the focal point of the event is designed to connect families and celebrate military children in a way that is both meaningful and visible.
Looking Ahead
The question remains, and I’ll ask again: what would you like to see evolve within our military community in 2026? As the New Year approaches, the reset of January invites us to think beyond resolutions.
As we consider the NDAA's strengths and gaps, prepare for historic celebrations, and embrace new family-focused resources, we have opportunities to shape our community's future. Whether it's advocating for the provisions that didn't make it into this year's defense bill, actively participating in America 250 events, or supporting initiatives like the Military Child World Expo, each of us plays a role. Cheers to a New Year.
Monique Ekundayo is a Military spouse to a Naval Officer stationed at NS-Norfolk. And while she calls San Diego, California, home, she and her little guy are currently residing in the National Capital Region. In her free time, she likes to tour the area and visit a new museum and tourist attraction at every given opportunity. #GoNavy