Aligning Purpose with Prosperity — Begin Your Plan Today!
About Always Ready Financial Planning
At Always Ready Financial Planning, our mission is to serve those who’ve served—empowering Senior Military Officers, Veterans, and their families to confidently navigate the transition from military to civilian life. Founded by Coast Guard veteran Joseph Brown, our firm is built on 25 years of service, guided by the motto Semper Paratus—“Always Ready.”
We understand that financial transitions are deeply personal, especially after a career of selfless service. Inspired by stories of fellow officers facing retirement uncertainty—including homelessness and hardship—Joseph became a Certified Financial Planner® Professional and Military Qualified Financial Planner® to make a difference where it matters most.
Our values shape everything we do:
• Service Above Self – Your mission becomes ours.
• Preparedness as a Promise – We plan ahead, so you’re never caught off guard.
• Family First – We align your finances with what matters most.
• Focus on What Matters – Tune out the noise, take control of your future.
• Money as a Tool, Not a Goal – Let your values lead your financial decisions.
We provide comprehensive, values-driven financial planning tailored to your unique journey—whether that means maximizing military benefits, preparing for retirement, or building a lasting legacy. Our process begins with a no-pressure consultation and continues with personalized support every step of the way.
Our vision is simple: to be the trusted financial partner for military families transitioning to their next chapter—providing clarity, purpose, and peace of mind, one plan at a time.
Let’s build your future with purpose. Schedule your free consultation today.
About Joe
I am a 1998 U.S. Coast Guard Academy alumnus (B.S. Marine and Environmental Sciences), and retired from the US Coast Guard after 25 years of service.
My duty assignments included:
• Deck watch officer on Coast Guard Cutter Polar Sea from 1998-2001
• Port safety and security officer at Marine Safety Officer San Diego from 2001-2004
• Rotating military faculty member at USCGA from 2004-2010
• Response Department head for Marine Safety Unit Morgan City from 2010-2012
• Permanent Commissioned Teaching Staff and I was the inaugural Chair of the Chemical and Environmental Sciences Department at USCGA 2013–2023
Highlights from my military career included overseeing port safety and security for the first military outloads in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM, certifying the Deep Water Horizon wreck as pollution free, and as a deck watch officer for two OPERATION DEEP FREEZEs.
I then retired from the USCG in 2023.
In my final year of service I earned a master’s in financial planning (2023) and since retiring certifications as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and Military Qualified Financial Planner®.
I am now living my next chapter fully, having founded Always Ready Financial Planning LLC, specializing in financial strategies for military families, including maximizing veterans’ benefits for education. I also continue to teach as a visiting professor of personal finance at USCGA since 2023, equipping cadets with financial literacy, and mentoring the Coast Guard’s future leaders.
I live in Westerly, RI, with my wife, Melissa, and three children – two of which have decided to follow me into military service. I attempt to continue embodying the Coast Guard values through community service and passions for ocean activities, woodworking, and golf.
Don’t Risk Your Family’s Financial Security
Find out how Always Ready Financial Planning, can be your trusted guide, helping you navigate these challenges. I’ve walked the same path and understand the stakes—helping officers like you avoid the hardships of missed opportunities or financial instability. We’ll craft a clear, values-driven plan to maximize your benefits, secure your family’s future, and turn uncertainty into confidence. Take the first step today — Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation Now to start your journey with a partner who’s been where you are.
Facing unexpected expenses during the transition.
Confused about military benefit applications.
Worrying about your family’s financial future.
Facing the stress of job searching.
Feeling anxious about future financial stability.
Lacking a solid financial plan for retirement.
Struggling to understand new investment options.
Missing out on valuable financial advice.
Proud member of XYPN! As an XYPN advisor, I adhere to strict fiduciary standards and carry the CFP®. XYPN is the only turnkey advice and planning platform that makes it possible for fee-for-service financial advisors to build the independent firm of their dreams with complete autonomy.