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Military Retiement

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Dilligaf
  1/7/2012 09:49 EST

Howdy y'all. I have been trolling the boards for a while and reading all of the great insight. I am planning on starting my exploration of CR in a couple months to find if I really want to move and if so where.

I am retiring in December but should be on terminal leave starting in July/August. Looking through some of the VA/GI Bill info it seems that there are schools in CR where I can use my GI Bill benefits. Can anyone confirm that for me?

Also, does Tri-care work there?

I am in my mid 40s and single and (if my calculations are correct) should have about $4000 a month between pension and disability. From what I have been reading that should be more then enough to live there.

Any other former military types out there with any info on military benefits and does and donts? Any input on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Greg

jetsetc5
  1/8/2012 00:10 EST

Greg,

Im retired Airforce and been here since 2005.. I retired in 1999 out of Travis afb. I own several properties (Central Valley)here and my dad (retired SF) is here as well. i got the scoop on everything! plus I got some great rentals avail. Im actually trying to start a retired military type community on my property.

Frank

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Dilligaf
  1/8/2012 08:36 EST

Good to hear there are brothers already in country!! I know of a couple others heading that way soon. I am Army and have a prior service buddy and his family heading down 2013/2014 time frame with a hand full more contemplating making the move as well. Seems I am the advance party.

I am looking forward to talking with you and getting actual intel on the area. I have not been to CR yet. I been to Belize, Honduras, Mexico and Colombia many times. I know a couple Ticos here in the states and looking forward to putting a footprint in country soon.

My email is [email protected] any info would be greatly appreciated.

BOBJCR
  1/8/2012 09:06 EST

WHY DON'T YOU FORMER MEMBERS OF THE WAR MACHINE RETIRE IN ONE OF THE COUNTRIES YOU HELPED RAVAGE WHEN YOU WERE IN? THERE ARE ENOUGH OF YOU LIFERS DOWN HERE ALREADY.

jetsetc5
  1/8/2012 10:19 EST

Because I was born here jackass and my family was here way before you ever dreamed of contaminating this country. So when you figure out how to change your name from Bobby to Roberto then you may have the right dictate who can live here! And most of my military work was Central America drug inderdiction and humanitarian. And I bet you last name is Smith!! You need to go live in England!

BOBJCR
  1/8/2012 10:32 EST

TYPICAL INSOLENT REPLY FROM A WILLING INSTRUMENT OF AN IMPERIALIST JUGGERNAUT RUN AMOK. ALL YOUR TYPE CAN RESPOND WITH ARE AD HOMINEM ATTACKS.

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Dilligaf
  1/8/2012 10:45 EST

LMAO
Is Bob the president of the welcoming counsel or did he run out of unicorn milk for his rainbow dust this morning?

BOBJCR
  1/8/2012 13:16 EST

I AM NOT THE PRESIDENT OF THE WELCOMING "COUNSEL", SHOULD BE COUNCIL, NOR HAVE I RUN OUT OF ANYTHING EXCEPT FOR CONTEMPT WHEN IT COMES TO SPOILED PARASITES, AKA MILITARY LIFERS.

jetsetc5
  1/8/2012 13:18 EST

I dont know whats wrong with that guy? But I can promise you that he is in his dictionary now and boy do you got it coming!! LOL

bluewind
  1/8/2012 13:48 EST

There's a big difference between the soldiers who fought in those wars and the people that sent them. Reminds me of how our military were spit on when they came back from the Vietnam War. Grow up!

BOBJCR
  1/8/2012 14:00 EST

FIRST OF ALL DON'T TELL ME TO GROW UP. I HAVE BEEN GROWN UP FOR DECADES. SECONDLY, I SEE THAT YOU HAVE BOUGHT INTO THE MYTH THAT TROOPS WERE SPAT UPON WHEN WE RETURNED FROM VIETNAM. NOTICE I SAID WE. I WAS ONE OF THEM, HAVING BEEN DRAFTED IN MY SENIOR YEAR OF UNIVERSITY. THE FRAUD, WASTE AND MISMANAGEMENT I WITNESSED WHILE IN THE ARMY HAS LEFT AN INDELIBLE CONTEMPT FOR LIFERS.

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patronan
  1/8/2012 14:56 EST

Dear Bobjcr,
Why are you so upset with everybody the with exception of yourself of course. It would seem to me that whatever bad things that happened to you in your 64 years living in the US would have subsided just a little.
Now that your 67 years old I think you should go back to the US and get on Medicare like the rest of us Plutocrat, Retired Military, Republicans and leave your poor neighbors alone. In fact you are just the change we were looking for last Pres election. Try out politics, there is plenty of room for a person with your personality and attitude there.
Have a great day!

bluewind
  1/8/2012 15:01 EST

First of all, I meant grow up mentally, not physically.
Second, I was in the military during the Vietnam War, and saw first hand how some of the soldiers were treated, so, GROW UP!

BOBJCR
  1/8/2012 15:06 EST

BECAUSE YOU NEED TO HAVE THE LAST WORD, IT SHOWS THAT YOUR MENTAL APPARATUS IS DEFECTIVE, NOT MINE.

jetsetc5
  1/8/2012 19:34 EST

Amen! Bob we cant all be wrong! But I have to say i enjoy your comments..Funny as hell! I think its called Schizophrenia ....A complex mental disorder that makes it difficult to: Tell the difference between real and unreal experiences; Think logically; Have normal emotional responses, Behave normally in social situations.

Just joking im not that smart!

God I hope I just didnt make you have to overdose on stress pills!

Anyway, its all just fun

Frank

Dilligaf
  1/8/2012 22:04 EST

Since you have already saddled up your high horse I think you should know I have done more for the people in Central America on accident then you, Bob, have done on purpose. If by ravage a country you mean build 25 new schools, repair and upgrade 100s more, build hospitals, build and repair hundreds of miles of roads and drainage throughout Central America then thanks, I seem to have found a home.

Some people's ice cream is just too cold. I have learned through my right wing imperialist indoctrination to never argue with an idiot, they only bring bring you down to their level then beat you with experience.

Just a helpful hint Bob caps lock can be turned off as well as on and never forget a closed mouth gathers no foot.

BOBJCR
  1/9/2012 05:35 EST

NO, SMART MOUTH, I THINK I WILL STAY HERE. I DON'T SEE WHAT MY LIVING HERE HAS TO DO WITH ANTIPATHY TOWARD CERTAIN ELEMENTS OF U.S. SOCIETY. BESIDES, MY TICA WIFE WOULD NOT WANT TO LIVE IN THE U.S.

BOBJCR
  1/9/2012 05:36 EST

NO, SMART MOUTH, I THINK I WILL STAY HERE. I DON'T SEE WHAT MY LIVING HERE HAS TO DO WITH ANTIPATHY TOWARD CERTAIN ELEMENTS OF U.S. SOCIETY. BESIDES, MY TICA WIFE WOULD NOT WANT TO LIVE IN THE U.S.

BOBJCR
  1/9/2012 05:40 EST

WHERE DID YOU GET YOUR M.D. DEGREE FRANK? I HAVE FOUND THAT DISSENT ALWAYS RESULTS IN REPLIES THAT SUGGEST THE DISSENTER TAKE HIS MEDICATION. NOT A VERY CLEVER DIVERSIONARY TACTIC.

BOBJCR
  1/9/2012 08:03 EST

AND JUST WHERE WAS THAT IMPROVEMENT? HONDURAS? A WELL KNOWN ENCLAVE OF DEMOCRACY. YOUR NAME CALLING IS OFFENSIVE TO SAY THE LEAST. YOU DON'T KNOW ME, SO QUIT CONCLUDING THAT, BECAUSE I THINK ALONG DIFFERENT LINES THAN YOU, I AM SOMEHOW DEFICIENT. AND I USE THE CAPS BECAUSE I LIKE TO, FOOL. YA, BASTA, DEJELO, PENDEJO. NO TIENES ALGO MEJOR QUE DECIR????

majbjb
  1/9/2012 15:52 EST

Why does he yell all the time? Anyways, I was wondering about TriCare availabiity, someone mentioned about it before you all got yelled at by the local village idiot.

bluewind
  1/9/2012 19:20 EST

"A closed mouth gathers no foot", that was great. That's definitely a keeper.

bluewind
  1/9/2012 19:24 EST

Bob, you're a riot! Please keep posting. I'm beginning to look forward to reading your garbage when I get home from work. The crazy people I have to deal with at work don't seem so crazy after reading your stuff. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

abesmith
  1/10/2012 12:52 EST

I've been watching this thread with some amusement.
BOBJCR: You need to lighten up a little. Don't hate those that have served. You don't need to support the wars that the US has indiscriminately started, but don't forsake those that were sent to these erroneous mistakes. It was not their fault.

I tend to agree with some other posts that the "American Empire" is in decline. By the corporations buying congress in the name of profits, our factories are no more. It is only my opinion, but the USA makes little else than some cars and war. I served, paid my taxes, and have been unemployed since August. If I had the financial resources to do it, I would be out of here in less than a New York minute. America has nothing left of value to offer.

BOBJCR
  1/10/2012 15:35 EST

ABESMITH, PERHAPS YOU DID NOT READ MY POSTS CAREFULLY. I AM A VIETNAM VET FROM THE WORST YEAR OF THE WAR {1968} WHEN NEARLY 15,000 U.S. DID NOT RETURN. I WAS A DRAFTEE AND WAS UNCEREMONIOUSLY WRENCHED FROM MY SENIOR YEAR AT UNIVERSITY FOR THEIR LITTLE ADVENTURE. THE DISTINCTION THAT I THOUGHT I HAD MADE WAS BETWEEN MY STATUS IN THE ARMY AND THOSE WHO CHOSE TO ENTER AFTER 1973, WHEN THE DRAFT WAS ENDED, AND STAYED IN KNOWINGLY CONTRIBUTING TO THE IMPERIALIST RAVAGING OF VARIOUS SOCIETIES AND ECONOMIES ABROAD, AND EVENTUALLY OUR OWN. THESE PEOPLE ARE NOW RECEIVING VERY GENEROUS PAY AND BENEFITS IN THEIR RETIREMENT. FOR EXAMPLE, AN E5, AS I WAS NOW MAKES SEVEN TIMES WHAT I MADE WHEN I REACHED ETS. THIS IS ALOT MORE THAN MERE ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION. IF YOU READ SOME OF THE AD HOMINEM, INSOLENT ATTACKS MY REMARKS EVOKED, YOU CAN SEE THE TYPE OF PEOPLE WHO POPULATED THE ALL VOLUNTEER ARMY. IN MY ESTIMATION, SPOILED PARASITES AND REACTIONARY FOOLS. END OF TRANSMISSION. I AM THROUGH WITH THIS SUBJECT.

bluewind
  1/10/2012 16:25 EST

I hate to say this, but I agree with you. There are more and more reasons to leave and fewer reasons to stay. If this country ever get back to being the country it used to be, it won't happen for a long time, and at 61, I don't have that kind of time. If I do move out of the US, it won't be just because of the expense of living here. There are many other reasons to consider a move.

abesmith
  1/10/2012 16:47 EST

Bluewind, the US has THE most expensive medical care in the world. All controlled by the pharma corporations constantly "lobbying" the doctors to use their drugs with all expense paid trips, highly paid speaking engagements to promote their poisons, to name just two.

The major corporations/banks/wall street firms have congress in their pockets. If anyone thinks that a member of congress receives thousands in election donations and does not favor the contributors, well, they live in a fantasy world. This country is controlled by big oil, pharmaceuticals, insurance, etc. It has become a country of the corporation, for the corporation, and by the corporation.

Our country is as corrupt as any other. Just on a grander scale.

bluewind
  1/11/2012 20:23 EST

I couldn't agree with you more. You are absolutely correct about everything you posted. People who think the US has one of the best medical care should do some research. We pay more per person (out of pocket) than any other 1st (and I think 2nd) world countries, yet the US ranks far below these countries when it comes to quality health care. The economic disparity between the rich and poor in this country is much worse than most countries, and it's getting worse. Egypt had a revolution partially because of this, and our situation is worse than theirs. Also; our government is the poster child for corruption. I hope OWS makes a difference, but it will take a very long time.

BOBJCR
  1/12/2012 00:41 EST

BUT WHO THE HELLWANTS TO LIVE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NILE RIVER AND LEARN ARABIC? ENGLISH IMPERIASM WAS JUST AS OPPRESIVE AS AMERICAN AND JUST AS SEPARATING FROM THE PEOPLE

Davehereicome
  2/4/2012 22:42 EST

Hi Dilligaf
Please do not take this fool bob as the norm his kind only talk this way on these forums they wouldn't live five minute if they acted like that in real life especially in CR, Anyway Welcome and Thank You for your service I am Dave.

Lupus069
  5/6/2014 20:20 EST

Seems like a very inappropriate comment, when your profile indicates you are a U.S. citizen and retired Air Force. Do not expect any business from this MSGT (RET) USAF.

LivingLifeInCostaRica
  5/8/2014 09:33 EST

I wrote a post on my blog:
"VETS - Resources and Organizations for U.S. Military Veterans Living in Costa Rica " which could be quite helpful to you.

http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2012/07/VeteransResources.html

LivingLifeInCostaRica
  5/8/2014 09:39 EST

Actually, if anyone that reads this that is a vet that would like to be a resource that people can contact directly to connect with - to be put on my blog entry on Vet's Resources, send me:
• Name (first name & last initial is ok if you don't want to make your last name public):
• Branch of Service
• Status (if one is disabled, maybe other disabled vets would like to connect & you could be supportive of each other)
• Where you live in CR
• Contact info you'd like to give - email, phone # in CR, do you have Skype or a U.S. phone #? (though you might want to wait till you've communicated via email first to make sure you DO want to verbally communicate with them)
• What assistance can you provide (a friendly voice, meet for coffee, a face at one of the meetings, go with them to a doctors appointment, help drive them, show them around, share info on your experience moving to/living in CR, someone to share war stories with - whatever!!)
• Other info you'd like to add.

ezrdr
  5/11/2014 00:11 EST

You need to go change your poopy diaper and get over your cry baby attitude. I also got drafted my senior year of college, went in as a PFC because of the amount of education I already had. I also went to Vietnam, then came back and Uncle Sam paid for me to finish college. In fact, I was able to get a Masters degree with the G.I. Bill. If you didn't do anything when you came back that's your problem.

I do know if you don't keep that big effing mouth of yours closed and stop offending the U.S. Military you will be tracked down and dealt with. Don't forget the NSA has your number.....How would your grumpy old ass live if you had your social security payments cut off? Just keep it up and find out. And you say the military retirees are ripping off the government, you are such a waste of air. Pull up those big girl panties and live with it, PRICK!

randylewiskemp
  5/11/2014 09:11 EST

I hate to be a spoil sport. But shouldn't a forum devoted to expat Costa Rica be about just that? Folks shouldn't make comments about military, politics, religion, etc. I'm sure there are other forums out there, for discussing these issues. I read and answer on this forum, because I either want to retire in Panama and visit Costa Rica, from time to time.

Wayne888
  5/11/2014 09:12 EST

ezrdr: You may have figured him out. He also is an expert on other countries blogs so he must get around a lot.

ezrdr
  5/11/2014 10:20 EST

I agree fully. I was reading the blog because I am a veteran preparing to retire in Costa Rica. I don't care where it is or who it is, I will defend the U.S. Military and it's Vets against any idiot on any forum. Enjoy Panama, I'll be visiting their too, I have many retired military friends down there. Take it easy and have a good one.

randylewiskemp
  5/11/2014 15:54 EST

If I came to Costa Rica and was invited by military expats to a party, gathering, etc., I'll be the first to attend. I'll enjoy the good food, drink weather, etc.

On the same token, if the Quaker settlement in Monteverde invited me for food and refreshment, I would also go.

Both groups are composed of people, trying to live in another country. And both groups are established there. I can learn a lot and have fun with both.

howdan
  5/20/2014 07:51 EST

I think you should ban BOB.

rambolizzy
  5/26/2014 22:28 EST

Hi...I'm a military widow. I'm seriously considering moving to Costa Rica this year. I've checked out Panama, Belize & Mexico & Costa Rica gets my vote. I prefer to live among a group of people with common backgrounds, ie, military. Does anyone have a good recommendation on which area would put me in a military expat community. Thanks

jetsetc5
  5/26/2014 23:55 EST

I have a Military community here at my property. Im retired USAF and my father retired Special Forces. He spent 30 years here and was the Command Sergeant Major of the School of Americas in Fort Gulick Panama. I have 2 other rectors here now that are USAF veterans both on disability. Never a dull day here and we all hang out together. I also have cars to rent. This past year I also had some retired Army couples here as well.

The comradeship still exists and I always take them with me to town to shop or just hang out with me as I run my errands. Always military stories and the memories of the good life. I'm sure you will fit right in. Feel free to call!
Lomatranquila.com

rambolizzy
  5/27/2014 01:07 EST

Thank you! Sounds good. I was getting overwhelmed by all the different communities. I'd like to live not to far from "civilization", but understand cost of living may increase in more populated tourist areas. Also, I have a small cat & dog that are family, so I need a pet friendly place.

I know Costa Rica has excellent health care but little confused website re: Tricare. I thought I was covered in foreign counties & now reading about a program called FMP. Obviously, I don't want to lose my health care since I'm under different umbrella now that I'm a widow. Pay no monthly premiums & I want to keep it that way. Appreciate any advice. One more thing, would like to bring my car there or is that very expensive. I'm addicted to my sports car which is probably impractical in Costa Rica. Oh...one more question. Are expats allowed to bring their firearms into the country. Thanks again

rambolizzy
  5/27/2014 01:33 EST

Yikes...definitely one more thing. I've been reading the posts on this blog & if anyone knows where this BOBJRC lives; please kindly steer me away from him. Know there will always be idiots in any group, but I'd hate to embarrass him when this little 5'5" widow reminds him he's a cockroach & we all know what we do to those insects. Bet Bob hasn't ate enough dirt in his life. I'm a very peaceful person, but after reading his asinine comments I'd love to smoke his arse. My father was a POW in VietNam & never once did he whine like this idiot. Oh well...Bob made for an amusing read

Kohl
  5/27/2014 08:03 EST

You are not permitted to bring weapons into the country nor carry, until you are a Permanent resident and have taken the required courses

A low sports car will not be useful to you here.

Even if you have very good healthcare for the USA, you will have be affiliated with the health system here as a legal resident

rambolizzy
  5/27/2014 08:34 EST

Thank you for the feedback. Guess I'll be leaving my car in the States.

LivingLifeInCostaRica
  5/27/2014 10:21 EST

I've started a list of resources & groups for military related people at:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2012/07/VeteransResources.html

I've heard there is an Auxilary group for spouses but alas, I've tried the lady half a dozen times (including just now at 8:20am) & either no one answers or she's not there & she never returns my calls.

Hope this helps!!!

ezrdr
  5/27/2014 10:31 EST

Don't worry about Bobjr. He's one of those old guys that married a young woman and he's just worried she's going to get away from him. He's just a bitter old fart. I know who he is and where he is and there's no need to worry about him.

rambolizzy
  5/27/2014 16:13 EST

Lol...thanks! He certainly is a grumpy dude per his posts.

AttorneyKearney
  5/30/2014 14:30 EST

Hello Greg
I know a couple of retired military expats here, there are several, several hospitals accept vet insurance and $4000 is more than enough to live like a king in Costa Rica.
It is a good idea to start residency and any other plans with enough time because one of the negative aspects here is the slowness of procedures, specially immigration matters.
Lic.Gregory Kearney Lawson.:
[email protected]

rhalversonevs
  9/2/2014 16:17 EST

Thanks for your appreciation, lunkhead!
I think after we risked our lives for our nation we get do what we want in retirement.

rhalversonevs
  9/2/2014 16:20 EST

BOB,
DO YOU THINK WRITING IN ALL CAPS DIGUISES YOUR TOTAL IGNORANCE? QUITE THE OPPOSITE! iT ACCENTUATES IT.
PURA VIDA!

LivingLifeInCostaRica
  9/3/2014 12:44 EST

People, why do people STILL obviously read "BOB's" posts - waste their energy on it?? You can tell what is his so why not create a more joyful - less negative day for yourself.

If no one responds to him he won't keep posting - right?? (just about every response I see from him is responding to others comments). So when you respond, aren't you just as responsible for keeping THIS "war" going???

Can we bring it back to answering the initial question at hand, HELPING each other & Connecting??

ILuvCR
  9/3/2014 19:33 EST

yea, so why are you post # 56 to a thread that stated in January? Let it lie!

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