Darren Thedieck, age 31, joined the U.S. Air Force at 18 years old to pursue his dreams of traveling the world and achieving financial stability. Initially aiming for a career in the medical field within the military, he ended up working in IT, which offered potential for financial growth in the private sector. Over his 12-plus years in the military, Thedieck has been stationed in various countries, such as England, South Korea, Germany, and currently, Italy. Through steady advancement in rank and pay, he now earns around $110,000 per year and has managed to save over $500,000 for retirement.
Thedieck has been a diligent saver and investor from a young age, influenced by his upbringing and desire to secure a better financial future for himself. By leveraging the tax advantages of his military compensation structure, which includes various allowances that are not taxed, he has been able to aggressively save and invest. With a current monthly base pay of around $4,650, Thedieck’s expenses in Italy, where he is currently stationed, are relatively low in comparison to the United States, allowing him to save a significant portion of his income.
Despite living on a single military salary after his wife Naudia left her job upon their move to Italy, Thedieck and his wife have managed their finances effectively through monthly budget meetings and intentional financial planning. Their expenses in March 2024 included housing and utilities, savings and investments, groceries, discretionary spending, dining, car repairs, gas, insurance, subscriptions, and phones. They have managed to remain debt-free and spend their money on experiences such as travel, health, and wellness, balancing their desire for both present enjoyment and future financial security.
Thedieck plans to retire from the military at age 38 and pursue financial independence retire early (FIRE), aiming to build a portfolio that can sustain their living expenses. With investments worth over $500,000 and a pension equivalent to half of his base pay upon retirement, Thedieck and his wife plan to transition to new endeavors post-military life. While Naudia plans to return to work, Thedieck envisions running his online finance business and embracing the role of a stay-at-home dad.
Looking ahead, Thedieck envisions a future of continuous exploration and growth for his family. After retirement, they plan to move back to Europe, potentially residing in various cities across the continent to enrich their life experiences. By exposing their children to diverse opportunities through frequent relocations, they hope to offer a unique upbringing that fosters curiosity and cultural understanding. Ultimately, Thedieck aims to strike a balance between enjoying the present moment and preparing for a secure and fulfilling future for his family.
