Battle buddies for life: Navigating marriage in America’s premier veteran community
By Marine Robbins, AFRH Public Affairs May 2026
At the Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH), new chapters are written in, often, unexpected ways. AFRH offers eligible couples the opportunity to continue life together in a supportive, secure community designed for enlisted veterans, non-commissioned officers, and limited-duty officers.
The community welcomes married couples under clearly defined eligibility guidelines. Dual-military couples— where both spouses meet military residency requirements independently—may apply together and choose either separate apartments or shared accommodations. Those who opt to share an apartment receive a 15% discount on their resident fees, reflecting AFRH’s commitment to affordability and fairness for those who served.
Veterans may also apply with a non-military spouse, provided the veteran retired from service. In these cases, couples share an apartment, allowing spouses to remain together while enjoying the full benefits of AFRH living. Each resident’s monthly fee is based on individual income, with non-military spouses subject to a modest minimum fee.
Couples at AFRH become part of a close-knit community. From daily meals and recreational activities to wellness programs, AFRH provides a stable environment where couples can focus on what matters most—time together.
One of AFRH’s most reassuring policies for couples is continuity of care. If one spouse requires assisted living or long term care, fees are recalculated individually, ensuring access to appropriate services without separation whenever possible.
More importantly, if a veteran passes away after admission, the surviving spouse may remain at AFRH for life, regardless of their own military background. Fees are adjusted based on the survivor’s income, and residents are never discharged due to financial hardship. AFRH’s commitment to connection and community often leads to friendships, and sometimes, unexpected love stories!
Army Staff Sgt. (Ret.) Lisa Marie Munson and Navy Cmdr. (Ret.) Patrick McCarthy each arrived independently at the Washington, DC campus, drawn by the promise of meaningful retirement living. Neither expected to find love.
Surrounded by fellow residents, dedicated staff, and proud family members, the couple exchanged vows in a heartfelt ceremony last fall at the AFRH-Washington campus.
AFRH supports couples at every stage of retirement, offering the stability of shared living, access to comprehensive care, and the reassurance that spouses can remain together as needs change.It is a place where veterans can focus on living fully, supported by a community that understands service, and values belonging.
For the McCarthys and many others, the AFRH campuses are not just where retirement begins, it is where life continues, relationships deepen, and sometimes, where love finds its way home.
To learn more about AFRH or to verify eligibility, check the website at www.afrh.gov/apply.
