Military Will Writing Examples & Guidelines

Introduction to Writing a Military Will

Writing a military will is crucial for service members who want to ensure their final wishes are honored. Unlike standard wills, military wills often include specific considerations related to service life and potential deployments. Below are three diverse examples to guide you in creating a military will that suits your circumstances.

Example 1: Basic Military Will

Context

A basic military will is suitable for active-duty personnel who want to outline their wishes simply and clearly. This format is straightforward, making it ideal for those with minimal assets or uncomplicated family situations.

In this example, we will focus on a service member named John, who has a spouse and a child.

Example:

I, John Smith, born on January 1, 1990, a resident of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, being of sound mind and body, do hereby declare this to be my last will and testament. In the event of my death, I appoint my spouse, Jane Smith, as the executor of my estate.

I leave all my possessions, including my military benefits, to my wife, Jane Smith, and in the event of her passing, to my daughter, Emily Smith.

This will is made in accordance with the laws of the state of North Carolina.

Notes:

• Ensure the will is signed and dated in the presence of at least two witnesses.
• Keep the will in a secure yet accessible place, such as a safe or with a legal advisor.

Example 2: Military Will with Specific Bequests

Context

This example is for a service member with several valuable assets or personal items they wish to bequeath to specific individuals. This format provides clarity on asset distribution beyond immediate family.

Consider Sarah, a servicewoman with various possessions and a few close friends she wants to acknowledge in her will.

Example:

I, Sarah Johnson, born on February 15, 1985, stationed at Naval Base San Diego, California, declare this to be my last will and testament.

1. I appoint my brother, Michael Johnson, as the executor of my estate.
2. I bequeath my motorcycle (VIN: 123456789) to my friend, Tom Harris.
3. My collection of military memorabilia shall be given to my sister, Jessica Johnson.
4. All remaining assets, including my bank accounts and personal effects, shall be divided equally between my mother, Linda Johnson, and my father, Robert Johnson.
5. Should any beneficiary predecease me, their share shall be divided among the remaining beneficiaries.

This will is executed in accordance with California law.

Notes:

• List all assets clearly to avoid confusion and potential disputes.
• Consider including a residuary clause to address any undistributed assets.

Example 3: Military Will with Trust Provisions

Context

For service members with children or dependents, incorporating a trust can provide financial security for those left behind. This example illustrates a will that establishes a trust for a minor child.

Meet David, a service member who wants to ensure his daughter is cared for financially, should anything happen to him.

Example:

I, David Lee, born on March 30, 1980, currently residing at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, declare this to be my last will and testament.

1. I appoint my sister, Emily Lee, as the executor of my estate and guardian of my minor daughter, Lily Lee, born on April 20, 2015.

2. I will create a trust for the benefit of my daughter, Lily Lee, with the following provisions:

   • The trust shall hold all my financial accounts, including savings and investments.
   • The trustee shall manage the funds until Lily reaches the age of 21, at which point she will receive a third of the trust’s value, with the remaining divided at ages 25 and 30.
3. All personal belongings and military benefits will be allocated to the trust for my daughter’s welfare.

This will is executed under the laws of Washington State.

Notes:

• Consult with a legal expert to ensure the trust is set up correctly.
• Review and update the will regularly, especially after significant life events such as marriage or the birth of additional children.