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

Will DOD need to start producing some medicines to protect troops?

In some cases, it could be cheaper and safer for the military to manufacture medicines troops need.

2 weeks ago

More food options, better access coming for commissary customers

The commissary director aims to bring more customers in to take advantage of commissary savings.

3 weeks ago

3 percent cap on troops' interest rates? Senator proposes broad protections

New legislation being proposed would provide precedent-setting, sweeping new benefits and protections for service members.

DoD official: Extend vets' Military OneSource access

Veterans need more than six months after separation to take advantage of the free services, a Defense Department official says.

America's top general says military kids are good for the force

Six military children received Operation Homefront’s 2016 Military Child of the Year Award, each receiving $10,000 and accolades.

Get help when wrongly billed for past state taxes

Defense officials are working with state tax collectors to minimize problems for service members.

Free YMCA membership extended for certain troops

Families of deployed Guard and Reserve members, and certain others will continue to be eligible for free memberships at participating YMCAs around the country, now that defense officials have extended the partnership with Armed Services YMCA for anot

Mission Family: Resources to be the best advocate for your child's education

One of the most important priorities for service members is the education of their children.

Enlisted chiefs tell Congress pay fears are hurting morale

The military services' top enlisted leaders said lost buying power, retirement confusion and deteriorating housing are top quality-of-life concerns for troops and their families.

Consumer Watch: Start your savings plan this week — here's why

Take advantage of special incentives, promotions, financial education seminars and other activities to jump-start your savings this week.

Veterans History Project reaches 100,000 milestone

The Library of Congress has reached a milestone — it has archived its 100,000th veteran’s collection in its Veterans History Project.

Spirit Airlines drops most baggage fees for active-duty military

Active-duty members traveling on Spirit Airlines will no longer have to pay baggage fees on up to two checked bags and one free carry-on, officials said.

Tips for Conducting a Mid-Year Budget Check In — Money Minute

First Look — 'Erased: WWII's Heroes of Color'

A historic battleship sails again, and a special ops demo | Defense News Weekly Full Episode 5.20.24