When You Lose Your Military ID

Earlier this week, I lost my wallet while grocery shopping. I checked EVERYWHERE at least twice, and even emptied the mom-mobile in hopes of finding it hiding under a leotard or empty Goldfish bag. No such luck. And then the panic hit.

Pretty much my entire life is stored in that brown little Coach wallet. Most importantly, the ugly little brown/orange piece of paper sandwiched between plastic that holds the key to my benefits. Losing my military dependent ID meant no grocery shopping, no getting back on base, and no health insurance.

The week before Thanksgiving, I can’t think of anything worse than not being able to buy food. Especially since we’re hosting friends and Soldiers. Yes, I could shop off post, but groceries in Hawaii are expensive! In the event that I went off base though, I wouldn’t be allowed back without any identification.

Which means that for a day, I was trapped within the confines of Schofield Barracks. Not having the driver’s license didn’t bother me too much, since I’m a pretty fantastic driver, and have never been pulled over, but without an ID, I couldn’t get back on base. So, I never left. John had to take Adri to school off-post and I walked V to school down the street.

As I walked to and from school, I made sure to remain extra vigilant of the drivers. Not everyone knows this, but a military ID also doubles as your insurance card. I’m sure it wouldn’t have actually been an issue that I didn’t have it, but why take any chances, right?

Luckily, the third time I checked with the commissary, my wallet turned up! And surprisingly, everything was inside. Even my cash! I’m glad I made the choice not to report all of my cards stolen, and that I was able to temporarily block my USAA cards.

From now on, I will absolutely have a better grasp on my wallet.