Karen Jowers

Senior Reporter

Karen has covered military families, quality of life and consumer issues for Military Times for more than 30 years, and is co-author of a chapter on media coverage of military families in the book "A Battle Plan for Supporting Military Families." She previously worked for newspapers in Guam, Norfolk, Jacksonville, Fla., and Athens, Ga.

All Stories By Karen

‘The need is significant’ in Marine Reserves’ 2023 Toys for Tots drive

Staff Sgt. James Caldwell's personal connection to Toys for Tots began years ago, when he also was one of those children who received toys.

4 days ago

Military aid societies battle for bragging rights on Giving Tuesday

The relief societies are competing to see who can raise the most donations in a single day.

8 days ago

‘A victory for all military spouses’ in court fight over job license

The lawsuit victory sets a precedent for other military spouses facing problems with job license portability.

App for ‘subletting’ child care slots expands to all Air Force bases

Families can save money by 'renting' their child care slot when they'll be away, and other families get needed short-term child care.

Open season is here for Tricare, dental and new child care accounts

Here's what you need to know about the open seasons for Tricare, dependent care spending accounts, and dental and vision plans.

Privatized military housing at Fort Meade, Md.

Will DoD’s plan to improve quality of life be different this time?

No more 'end-stating,' said the general in charge of quality-of-life programs in the Army.

Here are your new Tricare rates for 2024

Generally, if you paid out of pocket for Tricare this year, you'll be paying more in 2024.

Children greet war veterans arriving for ceremony at the Pegasus Bridge memorial in Benouville, Normandy, Monday June 5, 2023.

From pancakes to pizza, Veterans Day deals can save you some dough

Every dollar — and every gesture of appreciation — counts for veterans.

Some Tricare, dental plans may cost more in 2024. Here’s what to know.

Open season, from Nov. 13 through Dec. 12, is the time to make changes to your Tricare coverage. Some costs may rise this year.

Troops’ best defense against fraud is in jeopardy, advocates warn

“The thought of CFPB going away is frightening,” one advocate told senators.

Honoring accomplishment and courage: profiles of the 2023 Service Members of the Year

Watch Navy football players react to 2023 uniform reveal for game against Army

Psychedelics, cryotherapy and new treatments for vets | Defense News Weekly Full Episode 11.18.23