Hi Keith!
Thank you for sending in your question to the Walt Disney World Moms Panel. You can get the latest information on
current discounts for US Military personnel here. A you can see Disney is offering a great 4 day park hopper special, though there are blackout dates so be sure to check them on the bottom of that page. Disney is also offering discounts to the military at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.
You should also check the Shades of Green Resort, an Armed Forces Recreation Center in the heart of Walt Disney World. They offer great room rates and special discounted tickets to the military, including veterans of the military.
With regards to the Disney Dining Plans, it's not black and white. Some guests save a lot of money by being on one, some save only a little, and some actually spend more. It really depends on where you dine and what each member of your party might order. You really have to do the math! I suggest visiting the independent website AllEars.Net. At All Ears, you will find the menu, including prices, for all of the Table Service and Quick Service restaurants at Walt Disney World. Then you can decide whether being on the dining plan is a good thing or not. Whatever you decide, however, be sure to make Advanced Dining Reservations for any Table Service restaurants you are interested in. ADRs are critical, especially during the busy times of the year at Walt Disney World. ADRs can be made online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
I hope this helps! Write back with more questions!