Book excerpt: A comprehensive guide to the lives and experiences of military service members, veterans, and their families in the United States today, with special emphasis given to those of the post-9/11 era. This reference work provides detailed information on the issues U.S. service members face both stateside and during deployments overseas. Issues covered include relations with family; substance use; housing; educational and job training opportunities; post-traumatic stress disorder and other health issues; and experiences of women, sexual minorities, and ethnic/racial minorities in the armed services. This set also examines major issues related to military service for people close to the men and women who serve our country, such as spouses or partners, children, and parents grappling with such issues as single parenthood during deployment and bereavement at the loss of a loved one. Finally, this set is a valuable resource for people seeking a greater understanding of the issues that confront some military service members and veterans, from chronic health problems to economic vulnerability to suicide to incarceration. The two volumes are written in a comprehensive yet succinct and accessible style by experts familiar with the latest trends and findings.