Preparing You and Your Family 

for the Road Ahead

M I L I T A R Y

Deployment Guide

Updated February, 2012
- i -

Military Deployment Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction.......................................................................................................................................1

Deployment Overview......................................................................................................................3

The Deployment Cycle.....................................................................................................................3

The Deployment Cycle for the Active Component.................................................................3

The Deployment Cycle for the National Guard and Reserve..................................................5

Individual Augmentee Deployment .................................................................................................6

Pre-Deployment Phase....................................................................................................................9

Preparing Personal Affairs for Deployment......................................................................................9

Preparing Administrative Affairs .............................................................................................9

Legal Affairs Preparations...................................................................................................... 13

Financial Affairs Preparations................................................................................................ 21

Employment Affairs Preparations.......................................................................................... 37

Preparing Families for Deployment................................................................................................ 42

Preparing Spouses for Deployment........................................................................................ 42

Preparing Parents for the Deployment................................................................................... 51

Preparing Children for Deployment....................................................................................... 52

Housing Decisions for Families.............................................................................................. 63

Key Organizations for Preparing Families 

for Deployment.............................................................................................................................. 67

Key Military Organizations ................................................................................................... 67

Key Community-Based Service Organizations ..................................................................... 75

Pre-Deployment Health Care Benefits............................................................................................ 79

Pre-Deployment Health Assessment...................................................................................... 80

Medical Insurance Coverage through TRICARE.................................................................. 80

Dental Insurance Coverage through TRICARE.................................................................... 86

Pharmacy Benefits through TRICARE................................................................................. 89

Deployment Phase.......................................................................................................................... 92

Coping with Separation................................................................................................................. 92

Coping with Separation for Service Members........................................................................ 92

Coping with Separation for Spouses...................................................................................... 93
- ii -

Military Deployment Guide

Coping with Separation for Children..................................................................................... 97

Coping with Separation for Parents of Deployed Service Members.................................... 102

Emergencies during a Deployment.............................................................................................. 105

Financial Emergencies.......................................................................................................... 105

Medical Emergencies........................................................................................................... 109

Leave during a Deployment......................................................................................................... 110

Emergency Leave................................................................................................................. 111

Rest and Recuperation Leave............................................................................................... 111

Operations and Personal Security................................................................................................ 118

Operations Security.............................................................................................................. 118

Family Member Safety during a Deployment...................................................................... 119

Deployment and the Media.......................................................................................................... 123

Understanding the Role of the Media.................................................................................. 123

The Right to Say No............................................................................................................ 123

Tips for Dealing with the Media.......................................................................................... 124

Communicating during a Deployment.......................................................................................... 125

Communicating with the Command................................................................................... 126

Communicating with Deployed Service Members............................................................... 128

Replacing Identification Cards during a Deployment................................................................... 142

Verifying and Updating Family Member Information in DEERS....................................... 142

Replacing Identification Cards............................................................................................. 143

Post Deployment Phase............................................................................................................... 145

Return and Reunion..................................................................................................................... 145

Stages of Return and Reunion.............................................................................................. 145

Preparing for the Reunion.................................................................................................... 147

Post Deployment Affairs.............................................................................................................. 151

Leave following a Deployment............................................................................................. 151

Revisiting Administrative Affairs......................................................................................... 154

Revisiting Legal Affairs........................................................................................................ 157

Revisiting Financial Affairs.................................................................................................. 159

Revisiting Employment Affairs............................................................................................ 167

Post Deployment Benefits........................................................................................................... 172

Post Deployment Health Benefits........................................................................................ 172

Education and Training Benefits.......................................................................................... 181

Wounded Warrior Benefits................................................................................................... 186

Survivor Benefits.................................................................................................................. 196
- iii -

Military Deployment Guide

Reintegration Phase..................................................................................................................... 202

Reintegrating to Normal Life........................................................................................................ 202

Reintegration and Adjustment for Service Members........................................................... 202

Reintegration and Adjustment for Spouses.......................................................................... 212

Reintegration and Adjustment for Parents........................................................................... 217

Reintegration and Adjustment with Children...................................................................... 220

Reintegration at a Civilian Career........................................................................................ 229

Yellow Ribbon Program ....................................................................................................... 233

Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention................................................................................... 233

Post Deployment Emotional Letdown................................................................................. 233

Combat and Operational Stress............................................................................................ 237

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder............................................................................................... 244

Suicide Prevention................................................................................................................ 248

Appendix A Acronyms.................................................................................................................. 257

Appendix B Applicable Websites............................................................................................... 268

Deployment Overview Websites................................................................................................... 268

Pre-deployment Phase Websites................................................................................................. 271

Preparing Personal Affairs for Deployment Websites........................................................... 271

Preparing Families for Deployment Websites...................................................................... 277

Key Organizations for Preparing Families for Deployment Websites.................................. 279

Pre-Deployment Health Care Benefits Websites................................................................. 296

Deployment Phase Websites........................................................................................................ 298

Coping with Separation Websites........................................................................................ 298

Emergencies during a Deployment Websites....................................................................... 302

Leave during a Deployment Websites.................................................................................. 304

Communicating during a Deployment Websites.................................................................. 304

Replacing Identification Cards during a Deployment Websites........................................... 306

Post Deployment Phase Websites................................................................................................ 306

Return and Reunion Websites.............................................................................................. 306

Post Deployment Affairs Websites....................................................................................... 309

Post Deployment Benefits Websites..................................................................................... 314

Reintegration Phase Websites..................................................................................................... 324

Reintegrating to Normal Life Websites................................................................................ 324

Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention Websites............................................................ 328
- iv -

Military Deployment Guide

Appendix C Related Publications.............................................................................................. 334

Deployment Overview Publications............................................................................................. 334

Pre-Deployment Phase Publications............................................................................................ 336

Preparing Personal Affairs for Deployment Publications..................................................... 336

Preparing Families for Deployment Publications................................................................. 339

Pre-Deployment Health Care Benefits Publications............................................................ 341

Deployment Phase Publications.................................................................................................. 342

Coping with Separation Publications................................................................................... 342

Emergencies during a Deployment Publications.................................................................. 345

Leave during a Deployment Publications............................................................................. 345

Deployment and the Media Publications............................................................................. 346

Communicating during a Deployment Publications............................................................ 346

Post Deployment Phase Publications........................................................................................... 347

Return and Reunion Publications......................................................................................... 347

Post Deployment Affairs Publications.................................................................................. 348

Post Deployment Benefits Publications................................................................................ 352

Reintegration Phase Publications................................................................................................ 359

Reintegrating to Normal Life Publications.......................................................................... 359

Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention Publications....................................................... 361
- 1 -

Military Deployment Guide

Introduction

As a member of the United States military, the potential for lengthy deployments away from home and

family may be a constant reality. A deployment is never easy, but proper preparation can help minimize

stress and anxiety for service members and their families and help service members rest assured that their

affairs and family are taken care of while they are away.

As with any life-changing event, the more prepared service members and their families are to deal with

the adjustments they will all need to make, the easier it will be to cope with the change. By becoming

educated early on about what to expect during a lengthy deployment, service members and their families

can become better prepared to handle the challenges as they occur. Service members and their families

should begin preparing for a potential deployment well before they receive deployment orders. By

preparing in advance, they can reduce the stress they feel in the weeks leading up to the service member’s

departure.

This guide is intended to help service members and their families prepare for deployment, serve as a

resource during the deployment, and help navigate the challenges of a service member’s return and

reintegration after the deployment. The information presented in this guide applies to deploying active

duty service members from all branches of Service, National Guard service members, Reserve service

members, and all family members (spouses, children, and parents) of active duty, National Guard, and

Reserve service members who are preparing for, undergoing, or returning from a deployment. Service

members and their families should participate in installation or unit-sponsored deployment events to

receive the most current information specific to their deployment.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide includes hypertext links or pointers to information created and

maintained by other public and/or private organizations. The Department of Defense (DoD) provides

these links and pointers solely for users’ information and convenience. When users select a link to

an outside website, they are subject to the privacy and security policies of the owners/sponsors of the

outside website.

• DoD does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of

information contained on a linked website.

• DoD does not endorse the organizations sponsoring linked websites and does not endorse the views

they express or the products/services they offer.
- 2 -

Military Deployment Guide

• DoD cannot authorize the use of copyrighted materials contained in linked websites. Users must

request such authorization from the sponsor of the linked website.

• DoD is not responsible for transmissions users receive from linked websites.

• DoD does not guarantee that outside websites comply with Section 508 (Accessibility

Requirements) of the Rehabilitation Act. 
- 3 -

Military Deployment Guide

Deployment Overview

In preparing for a deployment, service members need to understand exactly what this term entails. A

better understanding of the aspects of deployment will help them know what to expect next, better

prepare them to manage personal affairs, and better enable service members and their families to cope

during the deployment. The sections below present an overview of the deployment cycle for active duty

service members, the deployment cycle for National Guard and Reserve service members, and Individual

Augmentee (IA) deployments.

The Deployment Cycle

From the military’s perspective, the term “deployment” only encompasses the activities required to

move personnel and materials from a home installation to a specified destination. From the perspective

of service members and their family, deployment often consists of training, all of the personal and

administrative measures preparing for a deployment, the physical departure, the time away from home

(either in the theater of operations or within the United States), the return home, and the reintegration

back into daily life.

The individual branches of Service use different terminology for the phases of the deployment cycle or

have a different number of phases than those presented in this guide. Regardless of the number of phases

or the terms used, every deploying service member goes through the same general process.

The Deployment Cycle for the Active Component

Although it may not be noticeable when each distinct phase

comes and goes, service members and their families progress

through a deployment cycle.

The deployment cycle is a continuous process, 

advancing through four phases, beginning and 

ending at home.

7

Pre-Deployment

Re

ni te

gration

Post Deployment

Deplo

y

ment

Pre

R

eintegration

Demobilizatio

The D

for t

The Deployment Cycle

for the Active Component
- 4 -

Deployment Overview

Pre-deployment phase

When not deployed, service members and their units undergo traditional training to prepare for the

conduct of military duties. During this phase of the deployment cycle, service members go through

normal training and medical evaluations that maintain their personal and unit readiness level. From a

family’s point-of-view, this phase of the deployment cycle is normal life, since the service member is

at home and going to work on a regular basis. Near the end of this phase, the unit will be alerted for

possible deployment and will receive orders to mobilize. Upon receiving a mobilization alert, preparation

for deployment begins including required briefings, additional training, medical and dental evaluations,

and possibly counseling to ensure that service members are ready and able to be deployed. The predeployment phase ends when service members or their units physically leave the home installation for

the theater of operations.

Deployment phase

The deployment phase of the cycle begins with the physical movement of individuals and units from

their home installation to the designated theater of operations. This phase of the deployment cycle may

be a very stressful time for service members and their families as they face the realities of a deployment

and what that means for them. The remainder of the deployment phase primarily involves the

performance of military duties in support of the mission either in the theater of operations (overseas) or

within the United States. Near the end of the deployment phase, the unit will begin preparations for its

return to the home installation, culminating with the unit’s redeployment home.

Post Deployment phase

During the post deployment phase, service members return to their home installation. Individual

branches of Service provide additional briefings, training, medical evaluations, and counseling to assist

service members in reintegrating into normal life. These briefings and evaluations provide service

members with critical information should they experience any emotional or physical issues later on as

a result of the deployment. In the post deployment phase, active duty service members will be ready to

return to their normal jobs on the installation.

Reintegration phase

After service members return from deployment and complete their post deployment recovery and

administrative requirements, they will begin the reintegration phase of the deployment cycle. This

includes reintegration into family life and the community, as well as reintegration into regular military

duties. Units may require service members to complete follow-on briefings, training, counseling, and

medical evaluations during this phase. Service members and their families may experience some stress

during this phase, as everyone readjusts to life together. Many support services are available for service

members and their families to make this readjustment easier, either through the branches of Service or

through the community.
- 5 -

Deployment Overview

The Deployment Cycle for the National Guard and Reserve

The deployment cycle for National Guard and 

Reserve service members is similar to that 

of active duty service members, with slight 

differences at the beginning and end of the cycle. 

7

Pre-deployment phase

Under normal day-to-day circumstances, members

of the Selected Reserve live their civilian lives and

participate in required unit training known as “drills” or

“battle assemblies.” If serving in an inactive status, such

as the Individual Ready Reserve or Inactive National

Guard, service members are not required to participate in these trainings. As with the active duty,

National Guard and Reserve service members go through normal training and medical evaluations that

maintain their personal and unit readiness level during this phase. From a family’s perspective, this phase

of the deployment cycle is normal life, since the service member is at home and going to work at his or

her civilian job on a regular basis. 

Activation and mobilization also fall under the pre-deployment phase of the cycle for National Guard

and Reserve service members. Activation occurs when a National Guard or Reserve service member

receives orders and begins service on active duty. Mobilization begins when the service member or unit is

alerted for possible deployment. Upon receiving a mobilization alert, preparation for deployment begins,

including required briefings, additional training, medical and dental evaluations, and possibly counseling

to ensure that service members are ready and able to be deployed. Mobilization may also include

reporting to a home installation for assembly and/or reporting to a mobilization station. Mobilization

stations are designated military installations to which National Guard or Reserve service members or

units are moved for processing, organizing, equipping, and training. For families of National Guard and

Reserve service members, the end of this phase of the deployment cycle may represent a divergence from

normal family life, especially if the service member relocated to the mobilization station. This phase ends

at the point in which service members or their units physically leave the home installation for the theater

of operations.

Deployment phase

The deployment phase of the cycle for National Guard and Reserve service members mirrors that of

active duty service members. This phase begins with the physical movement of individuals and units

from their home installation to the designated theater of operations. The remainder of the deployment

phase primarily involves the performance of military duties in support of the mission, either in the

theater of operations or within the United States. Near the end of the deployment phase, the unit will

Pre-Deployment

Re

ni te

gration

Post Deployment

Deplo

y

ment

Pre-Deployment

R

eintegration

Demobilization Post Deployment

Deployme

n

The Deployment Cycle t

for the National Guard

and Reserve

The Deployment Cycle

for the Active Component
- 6 -

Deployment Overview

begin preparations for its return to the demobilization station, culminating with the unit’s redeployment

to the demobilization station.

Post Deployment Phase

During the post deployment phase, National Guard and Reserve service members return to the

demobilization station. Individual branches of Service will provide additional briefings, training, medical

evaluations, and counseling to assist service members in reintegrating into normal life. These briefings

and evaluations provide service members with critical information should they experience any emotional

or physical issues as a result of the deployment.

Demobilization Phase

When receiving the briefings, training, medical

evaluations, and other counseling opportunities at the

demobilization station, the unit will also enter the

demobilization phase.During demobilization, National

Guard and Reserve units will begin planning their

personnel and equipment requirements in preparation

for return to a non-active duty status.

Reintegration phase

After National Guard and Reserve service members

return from deployment and complete their post

deployment recovery and administrative requirements,

they will begin the reintegration phase of the

deployment cycle. This includes reintegration into family life and the community, and reintegration into

a full-time civilian job. Units may require service members to complete follow-on briefings, training,

counseling, and medical evaluations during this phase. Service members will begin participating again in

required drills or battle assemblies during this time. Service members and their families may experience

some stress during this phase, as everyone readjusts to life together. Many support services are available

for service members and their families to make this readjustment easier, either through the branches of

Service or through the community.

Individual Augmentee Deployment 

Individual augmentee (IA) deployment occurs when a service member receives orders to deploy

individually or with a small group to augment a different unit. This type of deployment is different from

deployments that occur when an entire unit, squadron, or ship is ordered to deploy. An IA can be an

active duty, a National Guard, or a Reserve service member and he or she can either volunteer for IA

service or be selected for it. These service members are typically Navy and Air Force service members

that augment an Army or Marine Corps unit. Deploying IA Sailors and Airmen usually require

additional training and can be ordered to tours longer in length than a traditional deployment.
- 7 -

Deployment Overview

IA deployments pose a number of challenges for 

families of service members.

7 When called for an IA deployment, service members

usually have shorter notification times, lack specific

information concerning their deployment, and are often

deployed to areas that present communication challenges. More information on the IA program can be

found on the individual branch of Services’ websites:

• Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA) Program, Army Human Resources Command (HRC) 

(requires Common Access Card (CAC) login)

• Army Reserve Individual Ready Reserve (IRR), IMA, United States Army Reserve Command

(USARC) Augmentation Unit (UAU), and IA

• IMA Program, Marine Corps Mobilization Command (MobCom)

• United States Navy IA Sailor, Family, Command, and Employer, United States Fleet Forces

Command

• Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center (ECRC), Navy Expeditionary Combat Command

• Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC)
M I L I T A R Y

Deployment Guide

Preparing Personal Affairs for Deployment......................................................................................9

Preparing Families for Deployment................................................................................................ 42

Key Organizations for Preparing Families for Deployment............................................................. 67

Pre-Deployment Health Care Benefits............................................................................................ 79

Pre-Deployment Phase
- 9 -

Military Deployment Guide

Pre-Deployment Phase

This section of the guide is intended to help service members and their families prepare for deployment

and to serve as a resource during a deployment. The information is presented in four major sections:

Preparing Personal Affairs for Deployment, Preparing Families for Deployment, Key Organizations for

Preparing Families for Deployment, and Pre-Deployment Heath Care Benefits.

Preparing Personal Affairs for Deployment

There are many things that service members and their families should address to help ensure readiness

for a deployment, like completing legal documents, getting financial affairs in order, and preparing a

full-time civilian employer (for activated National Guard and Reserve service members).

Proper preparation for a deployment will make service members’ 

time away from home smoother, leaving them confident that their 

affairs are in order during their absence.

7

Preparing Administrative Affairs 

When preparing for a deployment, service members should ensure that their families’ information is

current and accurate in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS), that their

family members have the appropriate military identification card (ID card) and current valid passports,

and that their Record of Emergency Data, their family care plan, and their Servicemembers’ Group Life

Insurance (SGLI) beneficiaries are up to date. Although service members should update the information

in these systems and documents on a regular basis as needed, they are encouraged to review the

information again when preparing for a deployment.

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System 

DEERS is an automated information system that lists

all service members and their family members who are

eligible for military benefits and entitlements, including

TRICARE. Service members are automatically

registered in DEERS, but they must take action to register their family members and ensure that they

Prior to a deployment, service members should 

ensure that their family members’ information 

in DEERS is correct.

7
- 10 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

are correctly entered into the database. Mistakes in the DEERS database can cause issues with

TRICARE claims, so it is critical to ensure that all information is accurate. Service members should

update their information in DEERS anytime they move, get married or divorced, have a child, or

following any other event that changes their status.

When preparing for a deployment, service members are encouraged to check their current DEERS

information to ensure that their family members can access military benefits while they are away. Service

members can update their address, email address, and phone numbers through the DEERS website or

through TRICARE’s Beneficiary Web Enrollment. Service members can also verify and update their

families’ information through the nearest ID card facility, found through the Defense Manpower Data

Center’s (DMDC) Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) Site Locator,

by calling the DMDC Support Office (DSO) at 1-800-538-9552, by faxing changes to DEERS

information to 1-831-655-8317, or submitting changes by mail to:

The Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office

ATTN: COA

400 Gigling Road

Seaside, CA 93955-6771

Uniformed Services Identification Cards

Service members and their family members must have a military issued ID card to access military

benefits or privileges. These ID cards are required to access many of the benefits available to family

members including their medical benefits, dental benefits, the commissary, the exchange, and other

Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs and services on military installations.

ID cards are required to access many of the 

benefits, programs, and services on military 

installations.

7 National Guard and Reserve service members and their

eligible family members are maintained in DEERS in a

pre-eligibility status for future entitlement to unlimited

benefits, until the service member is called to active

duty by presidential call-up or congressional decree. Once activated, DEERS will reflect the activation

and pre-eligible family members as eligible for full benefits for a maximum of 270 days. To receive

benefits during the 270-day period, family members must possess the DD Form 1173-1, “Department of

Defense Guard and Reserve Family Member Identification Card” and a copy of the service member’s

orders to active duty. Retention of eligibility after 270 days requires issuance of a DD Form 1173,

“Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege Card.” The member should take his or her active duty

orders and eligible family members to the nearest RAPIDS site for issuance of the DD Form 1173. If

the member is not located with the family, and the spouse does not have a valid power of attorney, the

member should go to his or her local RAPIDS site to obtain a verified Department of Defense Form

(DD Form) 1172, “Application for Uniformed Services Identification Card – DEERS Enrollment,” for

their family’s use in obtaining an ID card.
- 11 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Service members and their families must be enrolled in DEERS before they can receive an ID card from

an ID card facility. Because a photo is required, family members and eligible children must go to the ID

card facility to get their ID card. Children under the age of ten can normally use the ID card of their

parent, but they must be registered in DEERS. At the age of ten, children should obtain their own ID

card. The nearest ID card facility can be found through the DMDC RAPIDS Site locator.

When preparing for a deployment, service members should ensure 

that their family members’ ID cards are current and valid and will 

remain so until the service member returns from deployment.

7

Passports

Family members of deploying service members are encouraged to review their current passports to

ensure that they will remain valid throughout the length of the deployment. If family members do not

have a current passport, they may want to apply for one. In the event that a service member is severely

wounded during the deployment and is hospitalized in a foreign country, family members may be able to

visit the service member. If family members receive travel and transportation orders from the military to

visit the hospitalized service member, the individual branches of Service can help coordinate passports.

More information on passports can be found on the Department of Defense Military and Civilian

Passport Matters website and the United States Department of State website.

Record of Emergency Data

Service members should also visit their administrative office to ensure that their DD Form 93, “Record

of Emergency Data,” is up to date. This form will be used by the Service to contact the next-of-kin

should the service member become ill, injured, or die while on active duty. This form also records the

service member’s selections for beneficiaries for Death Gratuity and Pay Arrears, as well as the person

who will be authorized to direct the disposition of the service member’s remains (PADD). Service

members should be aware that if they have a spouse but designate a person other than the spouse to

receive all or a portion of the death gratuity pay, the Service concerned is required to provide notice of

the designation to the spouse.

Family Care Plan

A family care plan outlines the logistical, financial, medical, educational, and legal documentation

necessary to ensure that dependent children will be cared for during the service member’s absence due to

deployment or training.
- 12 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Who is required to have a family care plan?

• single parents

• members of a dual military couple with dependents

• individuals who are married with custody or joint custody of a child whose non-custodial

biological or adoptive parent is not the current spouse of the service member, or who otherwise

bears sole responsibility for the care of children under the age of nineteen or others unable to care

for themselves in the absence of the member

• individuals who are primarily responsible for dependent family members

What must the completed plan address?

• names and contact information of the caregiver and alternate caregiver

• provisions for short-term absences (e.g., temporary duty for schooling or training, or, in the

case of Reserve Component members, active duty for training) and long-term absences (e.g.,

deployment or call to active duty) including the period (beginning and end date) of time covered

by the family care plan

• financial arrangements, allotments, and other appropriate documentation, including powers of

attorney, to ensure the self-sufficiency and financial security of dependent family members

• logistical arrangements for the transportation of dependent family members and/or caregivers

to a new location, including arrangements for a non-military escort for family members

requiringassistance (e.g., infants and children, elderly family members, and family members

with special needs) if the situation or personal circumstances so dictate, and arrangements for the

medical, legal, educational, and financial support necessary to ensure continuity of care during

the transport

• the name of any non-custodial biological or adoptive parent not named as the caregiver, along

with that person’s consent to the family care plan (If this individual does not consent, the service

member should explain the absence of such consent in writing and acknowledge the availability

of legal counsel to discuss the associated risks and the best possible courses of action [including 

the possibility of incorporating the family care plan into a temporary order by a court of

competent jurisdiction])

• the name of the person the service member designates, in the event of his or her death or

incapacity, to assume temporary responsibility for dependent family members until a natural

or adoptive parent or legal guardian assumes custody either by order of a court of competent

jurisdiction or operation of law
- 13 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Each of the Services has a form for ensuring that the service member has been counseled about a family

care plan. For additional information on developing a Family Care Plan, service members should contact

their installation family center or Military OneSource at 1-800-342-9647.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance

Under SGLI, service members are automatically 

covered for the maximum amount ($400,000) 

unless coverage is declined or elected at a 

lower amount. 

7 SGLI is a low-cost term life insurance protection policy

offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs

(VA) for service members on active duty, members of

the National Guard, and members of the Ready

Reserves. Even though SGLI coverage is automatic,

before service members deploy, they should confirm that their beneficiary(ies) designation is up to date.

If they declined or reduced their coverage in the past and would like to change it now, they can do that

by completing a request, in writing, through their Service.

Legal Affairs Preparations

Although service members should always be prepared for a potential deployment, it can be hard to

anticipate legal issues. Service members should keep their legal documents current and review them prior

to a deployment.

Each of the Military Services provides assistance and advice in drafting and updating legal documents

through Legal Assistance offices. Service members preparing for a deployment are typically given higher

priority for these services on the installation. The nearest military Legal Assistance office can be found

through the Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFLA) Legal Services Locator.

The American Bar Association (ABA) Standing Committee on Legal Assistance for Military Personnel

(LAMP) manages Operation Enduring LAMP, a consortium of state and local bar associations that

recruit volunteer attorneys to assist military Legal Assistance attorneys with civil law cases affecting

service members. Service members can use the Operation Enduring LAMP website to locate a

participating attorney in their local area.

Power of Attorney

The person designated in the power of attorney 

document should be the service member’s 

spouse, a parent, or trusted friend, since it gives 

that person the expressed written permission to 

act on the service member’s behalf. 

7 A power of attorney is a written document that gives

one person the authority to act on another’s behalf for

any legal or economic issues for a specified period of

time. For service members, this period of time is

typically the expected length of the deployment plus

three months in case the deployment is extended. The

person designated in the power of attorney document should be the service member’s spouse, a parent, or

trusted friend, since it gives that person the expressed written permission to act on the service member’s
- 14 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

behalf. The legal rights of a power of attorney cease at the end of a period of time specified in the

document or upon the death of the person for which the power of attorney is given. In the event of

death, the executor named in the last will and testament assumes the responsibilities of the estate. When

drafting a power of attorney, service members can choose between a general power of attorney or a

specific power of attorney, and whether the power of attorney is durable or not. Both the service member

and his or her spouse should designate a power of attorney prior to deployment.

General power of attorney

A general power of attorney gives the designated person the power to perform almost any legal act

on another person’s behalf for a specified period of time. This can include the ability to manage bank

accounts; sell, exchange, buy, or invest any assets or property; purchase and maintain insurance; and enter

into any binding contracts on behalf of the service member. Typically, when preparing for a deployment,

service members would grant their designee a general power of attorney.

Specific/limited power of attorney

A specific/limited power of attorney, allows service members to give only specific powers to the

designated person for a specified period of time. When drafting a specific power of attorney, service

members are required to list the particular actions or decisions over which the designee has power of

attorney. Additional information regarding specific/limited power of attorney can be found through the

Legal Services Locator, provided by the Armed Forces Legal Assistance.

Durable power of attorney

A durable power of attorney remains valid even if the service member becomes incapacitated or unable

to handle their own affairs. When drafting a general power of attorney, if the service member does not

specify that they want their power of attorney to be durable, it will automatically end if they become

incapacitated in the future.

Revocation of power of attorney

Service members can revoke a power of attorney at any time, as long as they are mentally competent.

When drafting the original document, service members may consider limiting the length of the power

of attorney so that it automatically revokes upon return from deployment. Otherwise, service members

will need to consult a Legal Assistance or civilian attorney to prepare a revocation document to end their

power of attorney.
- 15 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Legal Protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

SCRA protects the legal and financial rights of 

service members called to active duty.

7 The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is

intended to help protect the legal rights of members

called to active duty. It applies to active duty members

of the regular forces, members of the National Guard when serving in an active duty status under federal

orders, members of the Reserve called to active duty, and members of the Coast Guard serving on active

duty in support of the Military Services. In limited cases, the SCRA may also apply to family members.

Court and administrative proceedings

Under the SCRA, service members can obtain a stay or postponement of court or administrative

proceedings if their military service materially affects their ability to proceed in the case. SCRA

provides for an automatic stay of ninety days in these proceedings when a service member requests this

protection in writing. Any additional delay beyond the mandatory ninety day stay period is awarded at

the discretion of the judge, magistrate, or hearing officer. This protection does not apply to any criminal

court or criminal administrative proceedings.

For assistance understanding their rights under SCRA, service 

members should consult a Legal Assistance attorney. The nearest 

military Legal Assistance Office can be found through the AFLA Legal 

Services Locator.

7

Default judgments

A default judgment is entered by a court against a party (an individual, company, etc.) who has failed to

put up a defense to a claim that has been brought by another party. This means that the plaintiff wins a

case because the defendant failed to defend himself or herself against the claims in the lawsuit. If service

members fail to respond to a lawsuit and, as a result, a default judgment is obtained against them, they

may reopen the default judgment using their protections under the SCRA if the default judgment was

obtained while they were on active duty or within sixty days after their release from active duty. To

reopen a default judgment, service members must submit a request within a certain period of time after

the default judgment was awarded, be able to show that their active service has materially affected their

ability to defend themselves against the action, and be able to show that they have a valid defense to the

action.

Evictions

Service members who are renting their home or apartment are protected under the SCRA from being

evicted for a period of time if they can prove that their military service materially affects their ability

to pay rent. This protection only applies if the rent is below a certain amount. If the landlord continues

attempting to or actually succeeds in evicting the service member or their dependents while the service

member is protected under the SCRA, the landlord may be subject to sanctions such as fines or

imprisonment.
- 16 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Living Will

A living will, or advance medical directive, is a written document that allows a person to describe what

medical treatments he or she does or does not want in case of a serious injury or terminal illness. It only

takes effect if the person is unable to express his or her wishes in some other way. Living wills also allow

service members to identify another person who should make medical decisions for them if they are

unable to make them on their own. Service members who decide to draft a living will should make sure

that the person they designate as the decision-maker knows about their wishes and also knows where the

service member keeps the living will and has access to it.

Last Will and Testament

A last will and testament (or will) is a declaration that states how a person wishes his or her property to

be disposed of after his or her death. Service members who do not have a will are strongly encouraged

to get one, especially if they have significant savings and/or real estate. Without a will, a court may

end up deciding how to distribute property or even who should be responsible for the care of a service

member’s children. Service members who do have a will should still consider meeting with an attorney,

either through the Legal Assistance Office or through a civilian agency or law firm, prior to deployment

to review the current will, determine if it still meets their needs, to make any necessary changes. The

nearest military Legal Assistance Office can be found through the AFLA Legal Services Locator.
- 17 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Administrative and Legal Readiness Checklist for Married Service Members

The following checklist is designed to help service members and their families prepare their

administrative and legal affairs prior to a deployment. For Military and Family Documents, Insurance

Policies, and Property Documents, place a check mark in the box on the left once both the service

member and spouse have discussed where the following documents are located. In the space provided to

the right, write the location of these documents to serve as a reference for the family. If an item does not

apply, cross it out to avoid any future confusion.

Military and Family Documents

❒ Birth certificates ______________________________

❒ Marriage certificate ______________________________

❒ Divorce decrees/separation agreements. . ______________________________

❒ Death certificates for deceased family members ______________________________

❒ Naturalization or citizenship papers. . ______________________________

❒ Current Record of Emergency Data. . ______________________________

❒ Military records ______________________________

❒ Court orders pertaining to support and custody

of legal dependents ______________________________

❒ Legal papers/adoption papers ______________________________

❒ Social security cards for all family members. . ______________________________

❒ Social security numbers

Service member: ______________________________

Spouse: ______________________________

Children: ______________________________

. . ______________________________

❒ Up to date wills ______________________________

❒ Power of attorney ______________________________

❒ Advance medical directive (living will). . ______________________________

❒ Executor appointment ______________________________

❒ Medical power of attorney for children. . ______________________________

❒ Updated beneficiary for SGLI ______________________________

❒ Completed family care plan ______________________________

❒ Up to date ID cards for all family members, valid. .

through the service member’s return from deployment______________________________

❒ Current passports ______________________________
- 18 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Insurance Policies

❒ Life insurance policies . .

Agent: ____________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

❒ Household insurance policies

Agent: ____________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

❒ Automotive insurance policies . .

Agent: ____________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

Property Documents

❒ Deeds . . ______________________________

❒ Mortgage information . . ______________________________

❒ Lease agreements . . ______________________________

❒ Automotive title (or loan papers) . . ______________________________

Additional Questions 

❒ Are all dependents enrolled in DEERS?

❒ Is the family’s TRICARE enrollment current?

❒ Do family members know where to go for legal assistance?

❒ Contact number for legal assistance: ______________________________

❒ Do family members know where and how to obtains new ID cards?

❒ Are administrative and legal documents stored in a safe location?

Additional Legal Readiness Issues for Newlyweds

❒ Has the service member gone to the Personnel Office with all official documents and changed his

or her official records to show that he or she is married, listing the spouse as next-of-kin on the

Record of Emergency Data?

❒ Has the service member, at his or her discretion, listed his or her spouse as beneficiary for

government and civilian insurance policies? If so, has the service member checked with the

Personnel Office to confirm?

❒ Has the service member applied for a Dependent’s Identification and Privilege Card and enrolled

his or her spouse in DEERS at the Personnel Office?
- 19 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Administrative and Legal Readiness Checklist for Single Service Members

The following checklist is designed to help single service members prepare their administrative and legal

affairs prior to a deployment. Before deploying, single service members should designate a parent, other

family member, or trusted friend to manage their administrative and legal affairs in their absence. For

Military and Family Documents, Insurance Policies, and Property Documents, place a check mark in

the box on the left once both the service member and the designated person have discussed and know

where the following documents are located. In the space provided to the right, write the location of

these documents to serve as future reference. If an item does not apply, cross it out to avoid any future

confusion.

Military and Family Documents

❒ Birth certificate ______________________________

❒ Divorce decrees/separation agreements ______________________________

❒ Naturalization or citizenship papers ______________________________

❒ Current Record of Emergency Data ______________________________

❒ Military records . . ______________________________

❒ Completed family care plan . . ______________________________

❒ Completed personal care plan ______________________________

❒ Court Orders pertaining to support and custody of 

legal dependents . . ______________________________

❒ Legal papers/adoption papers ______________________________

❒ Social security card . . ______________________________

❒ Social security number ______________________________

❒ Up to date will ______________________________

❒ Power of attorney . . ______________________________

❒ Advance medical directive (living will). . . ______________________________

❒ Executor appointment ______________________________

❒ Medical power of attorney for children ______________________________

❒ Updated beneficiary for SGLI ______________________________

❒ Current passport . . ______________________________
- 20 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Insurance Policies

❒ Life insurance policies

Agent: ____________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

❒ Household insurance policies 

Agent: ____________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

❒ Automotive insurance policies 

Agent: ____________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

Property Documents

❒ Deeds . . ______________________________

❒ Mortgage information . . ______________________________

❒ Lease agreements . . ______________________________

❒ Automotive title (or loan papers) ______________________________

Additional Questions 

❒ Does a parent, other family member, or trusted friend designated to watch over legal and

administrative affairs know where to go for legal assistance?

Contact number for legal assistance: ______________________________

❒ Are administrative and legal documents stored in a safe location?
- 21 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Financial Affairs Preparations

Significant problems may arise for family 

members if service members do not have their 

financial affairs in order prior to a deployment.

7 Service members should get their financial affairs in

order before they deploy. If married, service members

may wish to provide power of attorney to their spouses

to allow them to access bank accounts to make rent or

mortgage payments, and to pay other bills as necessary. Service members and their spouses should also

ensure that they are on the same page when it comes to paying bills and managing the household budget

during the deployment. Single service members may want to ask their parents, other family members, or

a trusted friend to handle their finances while away. Single service members are encouraged to talk to

this person about their wishes with regard to their finances and how they would like for bills to be paid

in their absence.

If service members do not have their financial affairs in order before deployment, it could result in

many significant problems for family members. Financial counseling and referral services are available

at installation family centers from the installation’s Personal Financial Manager (PFM), commanddesignated and trained Command Financial Specialists, or contracted Personal Financial Counselors

(PFCs), or through Military OneSource. Counselors can help service members and their families

develop a spending plan and prepare their finances for deployment. Additionally, service members and

their families can receive financial counseling assistance through the approved command and community

resources from the state Joint Forces Headquarters ( JFHQ). For service members who are not

geographically located near military installations, services provided through the JFHQ allow them and

their families to receive resources and assistance through their local community. In addition, some units

may have a financial specialist or a finance office where service members can also receive assistance.

Installation personal financial offices can be found through MilitaryHOMEFRONT’s

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS application under the program/service “Personal Financial Management

Services.” Military OneSource can be reached through their website or by phone, stateside, at 1-800-

342-9647. The website lists specific dialing information for other countries.

The following sections provide an overview of some of the financial issues service members should

consider prior to their deployment.
- 22 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Income

The total financial compensation of a service member is comprised of basic pay and additional

allowances, incentive pay, and special pay. During a deployment, service members may qualify for

additional allowances and special pay that temporarily increases their income. Before deployment, service

members should become familiar with the various changes to their pay that may come into effect during

the deployment so that they prepare a realistic and effective budget. For example, service members may

use the deployment/redeployment calculator located on MyArmyBenefits to get an estimated adjusted

income during deployment.

Basic pay

Basic pay is the foundation of the military compensation package and is determined based on rank

and length of service in the military. The levels of basic pay are updated annually, typically around the

beginning of the calendar year, so if the service member’s period of deployment spans the first of the

year, he or she may notice an increase in basic pay while on deployment. Current basic pay amounts are

listed on the Defense Finance and Accounting Service’s (DFAS) Military Pay Tables.

Family separation allowance 

Family separation allowance (FSA) is payable to service members who have dependents and are

separated geographically from them for more than thirty days as a result of an enforced family

separation.

When is FSA Available? 

FSA-restricted (FSA-R): Transportation of dependents is not authorized at government expense

and the dependents do not live in the vicinity of the member’s homeport/permanent duty station,

or; transportation of dependents is authorized at government expense, but member elects an

unaccompanied tour of duty because a dependent cannot accompany the member to or at that

homeport/permanent duty station due to certified medical reasons.

FSA-ship (FSA-S): The member is on duty aboard a ship, and the ship is away from the homeport

continuously for more than thirty days. A member is entitled to FSA-S if he or she returns to

homeport after the original deployment for a period of thirty days or less and redeploys for a period

of more than thirty days. Dependents are not required to reside in the vicinity of the homeport.

FSA-temporary (FSA-T): The member is on temporary duty (TDY ) (or temporary additional

duty) away from the permanent station continuously for more than thirty days, and the member’s

dependents are not residing at or near the TDY station. This includes members who are required

to perform a period of the TDY before reporting to their initial station of assignment. A member is

entitled to FSA-T if he or she returned to the permanent duty station after the original deployment

for a period of thirty days or less and redeployed for a period of more than thirty days. Dependents

are not required to reside in the vicinity of the permanent duty station.
- 23 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

FSA is payable in addition to any other allowance or per diem to which a member may be entitled. A

member, however, may not receive more than one payment of FSA for the same period, even if he or she

is qualified for FSA-R, FSA-S, and FSA-T.

The current rates for FSA can be found in Chapter 27, Volume 7A of the Department of Defense

(DoD) Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R.

Basic allowance for subsistence 

Basic allowance for subsistence (BAS) is a non-taxable monthly allowance used to offset the cost of a

service member’s meals. If service members are issued a meal card or provided meals in the field, they

should notice a reduction in their pay to cover the cost of these meals. Current rates for BAS can be

found in Chapter 25, Volume 7A of the DoD Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R.

Basic allowance for housing 

Basic allowance for housing (BAH) is an additional monetary amount paid to service members in lieu of

furnished quarters. The amount of the housing allowance depends on location, pay grade, and whether

the service member has dependents. BAH is payable as part of a service member’s recurring paycheck.

During a deployment, even though the military is providing quarters in the deployed theater, service

members will continue to receive BAH if they were entitled to BAH at their home duty station. Current

BAH rates are available through the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO).

Clothing allowance

All active duty enlisted personnel, in the first and all subsequent anniversary months of their enlistment,

receive a clothing replacement allowance (CRA) to maintain their wardrobe of required uniform

items. Clothing allowances are paid to service members to help offset the cost of replacing uniforms

due to normal wear (cash clothing replacement), additional clothing outside the normal uniform that

is required to complete the mission (extra clothing), or the maintenance and replacement of uniquely

military items (military clothing maintenance). Current rates for clothing allowances can be found

through the DFAS Military Pay Tables.

Career sea pay

Career sea pay is a monthly special pay entitlement for service members while on sea duty. Career sea

pay varies by branch of Service, rank, and the cumulative number of years of sea duty. Current rates

for career sea pay can be found in Tables 18-2, 18-3, and 18-4 of Chapter 18, Volume 7A of the DoD

Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R.

Hazardous duty pay

Hazardous duty pay is a monthly entitlement for service members whose duty involves hazardous

situations including frequent and regular participation in aerial flights, operations on a flight deck,
- 24 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

parachute jumping, demolition of explosives, and time spent inside a high- or low-pressure chamber.

The amount of hazardous duty pay is based on the type of hazardous duty and rank. Current rates

for hazardous duty pay can be found in Chapter 24, Volume 7A of the DoD Financial Management

Regulation 7000.14-R.

Flight pay

Flight pay, or aviation incentive pay, is a monthly hazardous duty pay disbursed to service members,

as well as flight crew members, for the frequent and regular performance of operational or proficiency

flying duty. Current rates for flight pay can be found in Chapter 22, Volume 7A of the DoD Financial

Management Regulation 7000.14-R.

Hostile fire/imminent danger pays

Hostile fire and imminent danger pays are monthly special pays that compensate service members for

physical danger. Hostile fire pay is paid to a member who meets one or more of these criteria:

• takes hostile fire or is exposed to an explosion of a hostile mine

• is in a unit engaged in hostile action

• is killed, injured, or wounded by hostile fire or explosion of a hostile mine

Imminent danger pay is paid to a member who is on duty in foreign areas where he or she is subject

to the threat of physical harm or imminent danger because of civil insurrection, civil war, terrorism, or

wartime conditions. 

Although DoD regulations distinguish between hostile fire pay and imminent danger pay, they are

derived from the same statute. An individual can collect one or the other, but not both simultaneously. 

Current rates for these pays can be found in Chapter 10, Volume 7A of the DoD Financial Management

Regulation 7000.14-R.

Pay and allowance continuation

Under the pay and allowance continuation (PAC) program, pay and allowances may be continued for up

to one year for service members who incur a wound, injury, or illness in the line of duty while serving in

a combat operation or combat zone and are hospitalized for treatment of the wound, injury, or illness.

PAC also includes service members who incur wounds, injuries, or illnesses while serving in a hostile fire

area or while exposed to a hostile fire event and are hospitalized for treatment of the wound, injury, or

illness.

Entitlement generally ends earlier if a member is returned for assignment (other than assignment to

a medical or patient unit). Entitlement terminates irrevocably on the date the member is discharged,

separated, or retired (including temporary disability retirement) from the uniformed services. More

information is available through the local military finance office.
- 25 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Hardship duty pay for location assignment

Hardship duty pay for location assignment (HDP-L) is compensation paid to members assigned

outside the continental United States (OCONUS) in quality of life (QOL) hardship locations where

living conditions are substantially below the standard most members in the continental United States

(CONUS) would generally experience. HDP-L is intended to recognize the extraordinary arduous

living conditions, excessive physical hardship, and/or unhealthful conditions that exist in a location or

assignment. Rates are payable in increments of $50, $100, or $150 a month based on the QOL hardship

in a given area. Current rates and hardship duty locations for hardship duty pay and can be found in

Chapter 17, Volume 7A of the DoD Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R.

Leave and Earnings Statement

An LES shows a service member’s monthly 

income and leave totals. Service members 

should review their LES prior to deployment to 

ensure information is correct.

7 A leave and earnings statement (LES) is a

comprehensive report that shows the leave and earnings

totals for the month and is divided into three major

areas: entitlements, deductions, and allotments. In

addition to leave totals and pay amounts, a service

member’s LES records and maintains tax withholding information and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

information. When preparing for a deployment, service members should ensure that the person they

designate to manage their finances (spouse, parents, other family member, or trusted friend) is familiar

with their LES and how to read it.

MyPay

MyPay is an automated online system that allows service members to access their current and certain

past LES’s twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Using MyPay, service members can also view tax

statements and change certain discretionary pay data items, such as direct deposit allotments, without

using paper forms. Before a service member deploys, he or she should log on to MyPay and review the

current LES to ensure that it is correct. Service members may want to change their address if their

spouse will be residing in a different location during the deployment.

Pay Distribution

With few exceptions, all pay and allowances for members of the military are delivered to their bank of

choice through an electronic funds transfer called direct deposit. Direct deposit to a joint account for

service members and their spouse during a deployment can lead to some confusion and problems if both

are withdrawing and writing checks from the same account. To avoid this potential confusion, service

members can speak with their bank and ask them to distribute portions of the pay into more than one

account during the deployment.
- 26 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Allotments

Allotments are automatic deductions from 

a service member’s pay to meet financial 

obligations such as a car or mortgage payment.

7 Allotments are a specified portion of pay and allowances

that a service member authorizes to be made payable to

a qualified person or institution. Allotments can be

made to ensure that certain financial obligations are

automatically taken care of, such as rent or a car loan payment, but cannot exceed the total amount of

the take home pay (total pay and allowances less any standard withholdings). Allotments can be

registered to any person except to persons under the age of sixteen (with the exception of bonds) or to

mentally incompetent persons (although allotments can be made to an appointed guardian or to the

institution where the mentally incompetent person is confined).

Active duty and National Guard or Reserve service members on extended active duty can initiate,

change, or stop allotments by completing Department of Defense Form (DD Form) 2558 or through

their MyPay account. Allotments can be discretionary or non-discretionary.

Discretionary allotments

Discretionary allotments allow service members to specify the individual, institution, or business 

to receive the allotment. Service members may authorize up to six discretionary allotments and 

can include the following:

• life insurance premiums

• voluntary payments to dependents or other relatives

• deposits to financial institutions, mutual fund companies, or investments

• mortgage or rent payments

• automotive loan payments

• other loan payments

• deposits into the Savings Deposit Program
- 27 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Non-discretionary allotments

Non-discretionary allotments are those that are made to a specifically designated agency. There is 

no limit to the number of non-discretionary allotments service members can have on their pay at 

any given time. These allotments can include the following:

• purchase of United States savings bonds

• repayment of emergency relief loans to the any of the Service relief organizations (Army

Emergency Relief, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Air Force Aid Society, and Coast Guard

Mutual Assistance) or the American Red Cross

• repayment of emergency relief loans to the any of the Service relief organizations (Army 

Emergency Relief, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Air Force Aid Society, and Coast Guard

Mutual Assistance) or the American Red Cross

• repayment of indebtedness to any government department or agency

• charitable contributions to any of the Service relief organizations

• child and spousal support payments

• contributions to the Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

• payment of delinquent federal, state, or local income or employment taxes

• repayment of debts owed to a commercial creditor if the creditor makes an application

for recovery of the debt

• delinquent travel charge card debt

Split pay

Members of the Marine Corps may also elect to receive a portion of their pay at their duty locality each

payday. This amount, known as the requested split pay amount (RSPA), must be a whole dollar amount

less than or equal to the normal pay amount. Any remaining portion of pay will be transmitted to the

service member’s bank. To be eligible for split pay, a service member must be enrolled in the direct

deposit program and be serving in a garrison outside the fifty states or serving on a deployment. Service

members can stop split pay at any time during their service outside the United States, but they must stop

split pay when they return.

Taxes

In preparing for a deployment, service members should ensure that their federal and state income taxes

will be filed on time and should be aware of the federal tax advantages of certain elements of their pay, as

well as tax-exempt status when serving in a deployed theater.
- 28 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Income tax returns

Federal and state income tax returns must be filed every year, even if service members are deployed,

unless they are granted an extension. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) generally requires the

signatures of both the service member and his or her spouse to file income tax returns and access refunds.

For spouses to be able to jointly file income tax returns during a deployment, the service member will

need to complete IRS Form 2848, “Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representation,” in lieu of

a special power of attorney. The required filing time for federal income tax returns is between January

1st and April 15th of the year following the taxable year. If service members are outside the continental

United States on April 15th, they have until June 15th to file their income tax return provided they

are on official orders. Service members can extend the filing date up to an additional two months after

their return to the United States provided they complete and submit IRS Form 4868, “Application for

Automatic Extension of Time to File United States Individual Income Tax Return.” Service members

will need to check with their state to determine when their state income tax return must be filed as

deadlines vary from state to state.

Members of the active duty military may be eligible to file their federal income taxes for free

electronically. Service members are also encouraged to check with their state’s tax department to

determine if they also offer free electronic filing of income tax returns for the military. More information

on federal income tax returns and copies of required forms can be found on the IRS website. The IRS

also provides tax information specifically targeted for members of the military.

Federal tax advantages

During a deployment, some service member pay 

may be exempt from federal taxes.

7 While basic pay and certain special and incentive pays

are taxable, the majority of allowances are tax-exempt,

meaning that service members will not have to pay

taxes on them. While deployed, the primary allowances to which a service member may be entitled are

BAS, BAH, and FSA. In addition to holding tax-exempt status from federal and state taxes, these

tax-exempt allowances are also excluded from Social Security taxes.

Combat zone tax exclusion

When deployed to a combat zone, earnings received during time in the combat zone are excluded from

taxable income. For enlisted service members and warrant officers, the amount of non-taxable income

is unlimited. A limit does exist on the amount of non-taxable income for officers. This tax exclusion is

“event-based,” meaning that if a service member spends a single qualifying day in a combat zone, his or

her pay for the entire month is excluded from his or her taxable income. When serving in a combat zone,

any bonuses and special pays to which service members are entitled are also excluded from their taxable

income. As these amounts are excluded from taxable income, the reduction in taxable income shown on

a service member’s W-2 should be automatic. When serving in a combat zone, service members may

want to check their LES to ensure that their income is not taxed. Service members should also check

with their state of residence to determine whether the state has any tax exemptions for members of the

military who are being mobilized and/or deployed.
- 29 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Pre-Authorization for Emergency Financial Assistance

Each of the branches of Service offers emergency financial assistance through their respective relief

organizations for service members and their families who demonstrate a financial need. In preparing for

a deployment, service members may want to pre-authorize their families to receive financial assistance

in the event that they need it. If family members are not pre-authorized to receive assistance, the service

member’s permission will be required for the relief organization to be able to assist family members.

Obtaining permission through a Red Cross message can be a long process, so service members should

complete the pre-authorization prior to their deployment. If a service member has provided his or her

spouse or other family member with a general power of attorney, that power of attorney will suffice as

authorization for relief. More information on pre-authorization can be found through the individual

branches of Service relief organizations:

Service Relief Organizations

Army Emergency

Relief (AER)

Navy-Marine Corps Relief

Society (NMCRS)

Air Force Aid

Society (AFAS)

Coast Guard Mutual

Assistance (CGMA)

TurboTAP

TurboTAP, a DoD-sponsored website, provides active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service

members, and their families with the resources and assistance they need when transitioning on and

off of active duty. TurboTAP is especially helpful to members of the National Guard and Reserve who

transition frequently when mobilizing for deployments.

TurboTAP provides a wealth of information on three general topics: 

Money savings deposit program, personal finances and basic money management, TSP, etc.

Benefits Montgomery GI Bill–Active Duty (MGIB), Montgomery GI Bill–Selected

Reserve (MGIB–SR), Post 9/11 GI Bill, Reserve Educational Assistance Program

(REAP), VEAP, Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI), Veterans’ Group

Life Insurance (VGLI), Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI),

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, Healthcare Transition benefits and

TRICARE, etc.

Jobs employment hub, military friendly employers, resume builder, interview tips, career

fairs, relocation information and assistance, etc.

TurboTAP is designed to support service members throughout their military careers. If a service member

signs up for a TurboTAP account, he or she will receive automatic email notifications when benefits

change or when new benefits are passed into law.
- 30 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Thrift Savings Plan 

The TSP is an official federal government-sponsored retirement saving and investment program, similar

to a civilian 401K tax-deferred program. Service members can contribute money from their basic pay

and special, incentive, and bonus pay without paying federal or state taxes. When serving in a combat

zone, service members can use their tax-free income for TSP contributions as well. As a result, upon

withdrawal, while the interest earned on the TSP account will be taxed, any tax-free contributions to the

account will not be taxed. More information on the program can be found on the TSP website.

Savings Deposit Program

While deployed, service members may be eligible to participate in the Savings Deposit Program (SDP).

The program is available to service members during assignments and deployments to specified locations.

The SDP pays back a guaranteed 10 percent annual return on investment (2.5 percent quarterly) on

up to $10,000 contributed from un-allotted current pay and allowances. Upon withdrawal, a service

member’s contributions to SDP will not be taxed, but the interest earned will be. Service members

interested in learning about the proper procedures for SDP enrollment should consult with their

individual military Service. Additional information on the SDP can be found in Chapter 51, Volume 7A

of the DoD Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R.

Financial Protections of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

In addition to legal protections, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides certain financial

protections for active duty members of the regular forces, members of the National Guard when serving

in an active duty status under federal orders, members of the Reserve called to active duty, or members of

the Coast Guard serving on active duty in support of the Military Services.

A service member’s protections under SCRA generally begin on the first day of active duty and

may extend for 30 to 180 days after release from active duty. Many of the SCRA protections are not

automatic and require that the service member request the protection in a timely matter. For certain

protections, such as the limitation on interest rates, service members may also be required to prove that

military service materially impacts their ability to make payments.

For assistance understanding their rights under SCRA, service 

members should consult a Legal Assistance attorney. The nearest 

military Legal Assistance Office can be found through the AFLA 

Legal Services Locator.

7
- 31 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Reduced interest

Under SCRA, service members can limit the interest rate for all financial obligations (including

mortgages) that they entered into before beginning active duty to 6 percent. These financial obligations

can include the interest rates on credit cards, automotive loans, mortgages, and even some student loans.

Additionally, SCRA prohibits lenders from accelerating the principal amount owed, and forgives the

excess interest payments that would have been due under the higher interest rate. This protection under

SCRA does not apply to financial obligations entered into while on active duty, federally guaranteed

student loans, and some other types of financial obligations.

To qualify for this protection, service members must be able to show that they are now on active duty,

that the obligation was incurred before they entered active duty, and that their military service impacts

their ability to meet these financial obligations. To begin the process, service members will need to send

a letter, along with a copy of their current military orders, to their lender requesting relief under SCRA.

Foreclosures and repossessions

If service members are unable to maintain the terms of a purchase contract for real property or an

automobile due to their military service, the SCRA protects them from foreclosure or repossession

without a court order. Under certain circumstances, service members may also request a stay of

proceedings to stop a foreclosure or repossession. Service members are encouraged to consult a Legal

Assistance attorney for more information on foreclosure and repossession protections under SCRA.

Termination of residential leases

Under SCRA, service members who are just entering service

may terminate residential leases and rental agreements without

penalty. To do this, service members will have to show that they

entered into the lease before they entered active duty and that

they are on active duty for a minimum of ninety days. They will

also be required to provide their landlord proper written notice

and a copy of military orders.

If service members entered into a lease or rental agreement after

they began active duty service, they may still be able to terminate

their lease without penalty under SCRA. Active duty service

members receiving permanent change of station (PCS) orders

or deployment orders for a period of more than ninety days also

qualify under SCRA to end their rental agreements without

repercussions. Service members will need to provide written

notice to their landlord and a copy of their orders.
- 32 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Termination of automotive leases

The SCRA creates protections that allow service members to terminate automobile leases entered into

before or during their time on active duty if they meet certain conditions. Generally, National Guard

and Reserve service members can terminate their automotive leases if they are called to active duty for

a minimum of ninety days. Active duty members can terminate their automotive leases if, after they

entered into the lease, they either received military orders for a PCS move from CONUS to OCONUS,

a PCS move from an OCONUS state to any location outside of that state, or deployment for a

minimum of ninety days.

Termination of cellular telephone contracts

The SCRA creates protections that allow service members to terminate a contract for cellular telephone

service before or during their time on active duty if they meet certain conditions. A service member

may terminate a cellular telephone contract at any time after the date he or she receives military orders

to relocate for ninety days or more to a location that does not support the contract. Service members

terminating a cellular telephone contract under the SCRA must give their provider notice of intent to

terminate and a copy of their military orders.
- 33 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Financial Readiness Checklist for Married Service Members

The following checklist is designed to help service members and their families prepare their financial

affairs prior to a deployment. Place a check mark in the box on the left once both the service member

and spouse have discussed where the following documents are located or have addressed the identified

issue. Under Financial Documents/Items, in the space provided to the right, write the location of

documents to serve as a reference for the family. If an item does not apply, cross it out to avoid any future

confusion.

Financial Documents/Items

❒ Past tax returns . . ______________________________

❒ Savings bonds and securities . . ______________________________

❒ Family budget ______________________________

❒ Completed pre-authorization form

through Service relief organization ______________________________

❒ Signed release allowing spouse to pick up

LES from servicing finance office ______________________________

❒ Keys to safe deposit box . . ______________________________

❒ Credit cards . . ______________________________

Telephone numbers for credit card companies: ______________________________

. . ______________________________

. . ______________________________

❒ Does the spouse have full access to bank accounts?

Checking Account 	 	 	 Savings Account

Bank name: __________________________. . ______________________________

Account number: __________________________. . ______________________________

Telephone: __________________________. . ______________________________

Military Pay

❒ Does the spouse know how to read an LES?

❒ Does the spouse understand the allotments the service member has set up?

❒ Does the service member have an adequate dependent’s allotment for the spouse?

❒ Does the service member have a backup plan if the allotment is late?
- 34 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Additional Questions to Help Prepare Service Members and their Families

❒ Have the service member and his or her spouse discussed, and come to an agreement on, how

finances will be handled during the deployment?

❒ Does the spouse know where to go in the event of a financial emergency?

Financial emergency contact: ______________________________

❒ Does the spouse know where to go for questions concerning military pay?

Contact number: ______________________________

❒ If not done through an allotment, does the spouse have payment information for

mortgages, rent/leases, and/or automotive loans?

Mortgage/Landlord 	 	 Automotive Loan

Loan company/landlord: __________________________ ______________________________

Address: __________________________ ______________________________

Telephone: __________________________ ______________________________

❒ Are financial documents stored in a safe location?

Where are documents stored? ______________________________

❒ Has the service member initiated financial protections under SCRA if needed?

❒ Has the service member requested a reduced/adjusted automobile insurance rate for the duration

of the deployment or designated someone to care for his or her vehicle?

❒ Is the spouse aware of the The Military Spouse Career Advancement Account (MyCAA)

Program? 

Additional Financial Readiness Issues for Newlyweds

❒ Have records been updated in the Personnel Office to ensure the correct amount of

allowances (e.g., BAH)?

❒ Has the service member considered making a joint account so that

his or her spouse can access funds during the deployment?
- 35 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Financial Readiness for Single Service Members

The following checklist is designed to help single service members prepare their financial affairs prior to

a deployment. Before deploying, single service members should designate a parent, other family member,

or trusted friend to manage their financial affairs in their absence. Place a check mark in the box on the

left once both the service member and designated person have discussed where the following documents

are located or have addressed the identified issue. Under Financial Documents/Items, in the space

provided to the right, write the location of documents to serve as a reference for the designated person.

If an item does not apply, cross it out to avoid any future confusion.

Financial Documents/Items

❒ Past tax returns . . ______________________________

❒ Savings bonds and securities ______________________________

❒ Signed release allowing designated person

to pick up LES . . ______________________________

❒ Keys to safe deposit box ______________________________

❒ Does the designated person have full access to bank accounts?

Checking Account 	 	 	 Savings Account

Bank name: __________________________. . ______________________________

Account number: __________________________. . ______________________________

Telephone: __________________________. . ______________________________

❒ Credit cards

Telephone numbers for credit card companies: ______________________________

. . ______________________________

. . ______________________________

. . ______________________________

Military Pay

❒ Does the designated person know how to read an LES?

❒ Does the designated person understand the allotments set up by the service member?

❒ Does the service member have a back-up plan if the allotment is late?

❒ Does the designated person know the MyPay user ID and password?
- 36 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Additional Questions to Help Single Service Members Prepare 

❒ Have the service member and designated person discussed, and come to an agreement on,

how finances will be handled during the deployment?

❒ Does the designated person know where to go for questions concerning military pay?

Contact number: . . ______________________________

❒ If not done through an allotment, does the designated person have payment information for

mortgages, rent/leases, and/or automotive loans?

Mortgage/Landlord 	 	 Automotive Loan

Loan company/landlord: __________________________ ______________________________

Address: __________________________ ______________________________

Telephone: __________________________ ______________________________

❒ Are financial documents stored in a safe location?

Where are documents stored? . . ______________________________

❒ Has the service member initiated financial protections under SCRA if needed?

❒ Has the service member requested a reduced/adjusted automobile insurance rate for the duration

of the deployment or designated someone to care for his or her vehicle?
- 37 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Employment Affairs Preparations

Members of the National Guard and Reserve with full-time civilian jobs who are called to active duty

to mobilize or deploy are entitled to certain benefits and protections under the Uniformed Services

Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) of 1994. Small businesses who employ

mobilized National Guard and Reserve service members who are essential employees may qualify for

the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan (MREIDL) program through the Small Business

Administration (SBA). The following sections provide an overview the rights and protections provided

to service members under USERRA, an overview of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

(ESGR) organization, and a description of the MREIDL program.

National Guard and Reserve service members called to active duty 

are entitled to certain benefits and protections related to their jobs.

7

Rights and Protections under the Uniformed Services Employment 

and Reemployment Rights Act 

USERRA protects members of the military who have served

or are serving in the uniformed Services by establishing certain

rights and benefits for them as employees and duties and

responsibilities for employers concerning the employment,

reemployment, and retention of members of the military in

civilian jobs. Although USERRA is most commonly associated

with members of the National Guard and Reserve because of its

reemployment and retention protections, the anti-discrimination

characteristics of the law also apply to anyone considering joining

the military, current active duty service members, or veterans.

USERRA establishes a floor, not a ceiling, for the employment

and reemployment rights and benefits of those it protects.

Employers may provide greater rights and benefits than

USERRA requires, but they cannot refuse to provide any right

or benefit guaranteed by USERRA. If an employer provides a

benefit that exceeds USERRA requirements in one area, they

cannot reduce or limit other rights or benefits in other areas that are required by USERRA.

USERRA protects service members by prohibiting discrimination due to service in the military,

prohibiting retaliatory actions against service members for exercising their rights under USERRA, and

by providing certain rights and benefits when preparing for a deployment, while service members are

deployed, and when they return from deployment.
- 38 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Anti-discrimination protection 

Under this provision, current employers, or any potential employers, cannot discriminate against service

members because of their military service. Employers may not deny initial employment, reemployment,

retention in their employment, promotion, or any benefit of employment to service members on the

basis of their membership, application for membership, performance of service, application for service, or

obligation for service in the military.

Anti-retaliation protection

Employers may not retaliate against service members through any adverse employment action if a

service member takes action to enforce a protection afforded by USERRA, testifies or otherwise makes

a statement in or in connection with a proceeding under USERRA, assists or participates in a USERRA

investigation, or exercises a right provided by USERRA.

Rights and benefits when mobilizing/deploying

When service members receive notice that they will be called to mobilize or deploy, they should alert

their employer as soon as possible. Under USERRA, employers must treat the time away from work as

furlough or leave of absence and cannot require that service members use their vacation, annual leave,

or similar leave for time away for military duties. Service members may opt to use their vacation time to

continue to receive additional paychecks, but employers cannot require the use of it.

Rights and benefits while mobilized/deployed

While mobilized or deployed, USERRA continues to provide protections to service members. Since

employers must treat time away as a furlough or leave of absence, any benefits they provide to other

employees on furlough or leave of absence must be extended to the deployed/mobilized service member

as well.

Employers must also treat the time away as “continuous service.” For pension plans or other benefits that

are based on time in service with the company, employers must treat the time away for military duties

as if the service member was continuously employed at that job. The time away cannot be considered a

break in service at the place of employment.

While deployed/mobilized, employers are not required to continue providing health care insurance

coverage for the duration of the deployment. If service members request it, employers are required to

continue to carry service members and their families on the company health plan for up to thirty days of

service at normal cost to service members. Service members can elect to continue their coverage through

their civilian employers’ health plans, but they may be required to pay up to 102 percent of the full

premium for coverage.
- 39 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Reemployment and reinstatement of health plans

Upon return from deployment, service members are entitled to prompt reemployment in their original

position or one of similar seniority, status, and pay. In addition to their original position, service

members are entitled to any additional benefits or seniority that they would have received had they

not left for military service. Under USERRA, the definition of prompt depends on the length of time

the service member was away on military duties. If a service member has been away for an extended

period of time, the employer may need time to reassign or give notice to someone who has occupied the

position while the service member was away. If the service member is no longer qualified to hold his or

her former position (e.g., the position required a certification that has lapsed), the employer is required

by law to provide the service member the required training to return him or her to a qualified status if

such training would not present an undue hardship for the employer.

Upon return from military service, if service members choose to go back to their company health plan,

their employers must reinstate them to the plan immediately upon reemployment. There can be no

waiting periods and no exclusion due to any pre-existing conditions, other than for Department of

Veterans Affairs (VA)–determined service-connected conditions.

Discharge protection

After return from a deployment and reinstatement in a full-time position, an employer may not

terminate a service member without just cause for a period of time based on the length of time away for

military duties. If a service member was away for a period between 31 and 180 days, an employer cannot

terminate him or her within 180 days of reemployment. If the service member was away for more than

180 days, an employer cannot terminate him or her without just cause for one year after he or she is

reemployed.

Eligibility Criteria for Protection Under USERRA

In general, if service members were absent from a position of civilian employment by reason of 

service in the military, they are eligible for reemployment under USERRA if they meet all of the 

required eligibility criteria.

• the service member provided the employer advance notice that he or she would be away for

military duties (except when precluded by military necessity)

• the service member was not away from his or her job for more than five years

• the service member was released from military service under conditions other than dishonorable

• the service member reported back to his or her civilian job in a timely manner and submitted a

timely application for reemployment
- 40 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Circumstances allowing for the denial of reemployment

There are some circumstances under which an employer is not required to reemploy a returning service

member, but it is the responsibility of the employer to prove that such a circumstance exists. If an

employer’s situation has changed so much that reemployment of the service member is impossible

or unreasonable, the employer can legally deny the service member reemployment. Additionally, if

the service member is no longer qualified to hold his or her former position and assisting the service

member in becoming qualified would constitute an undue hardship on the employer, then the employer

can legally deny reemployment. The final circumstance in which an employer can deny reemployment is

when the job was for a brief, non-recurrent period with no reasonable expectation that such employment

would continue indefinitely for a significant period.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

ESGR is a Department of Defense (DoD) organization operated through a network of volunteers in

local ESGR committees in the each state, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin

Islands. ESGR works to educate civilian employers and communities about the National Guard and

Reserve through a comprehensive outreach program known as the Civilian Employment Information

(CEI) Initiative. ESGR works with employers and communities to promote the development of

personnel policies designed to accommodate members of the uniformed Services and assists military

units in promoting and maintaining positive relationships between employers and National Guard and

Reserve employees. ESGR educates service members regarding their obligations to their employers and

their rights under USERRA and assists them in preventing, resolving, or reducing employer/employee

problems and misunderstandings related to USERRA through mediation and ombudsman services.

Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan

This program may be of particular interest to National Guard and Reserve service members who own

their own businesses. The SBA administers the MREIDL program to provide funds to eligible small

businesses to meet their ordinary and necessary operating expenses that they could have met, but were

unable to meet, because an essential employee was called-up to active duty in his or her role as a member

of the National Guard or Reserve. An essential employee is an individual (whether or not an owner

of the small business) whose managerial or technical expertise is critical to the successful day-to-day

operations of the small business.

These loans are intended only to provide the amount of working capital needed by a small business to

pay its necessary obligations as it matures until operations return to normal after the essential employee

is released from active military duty. The purpose of these loans is not to cover lost income or lost profits.

MREIDL funds cannot be used to take the place of regular commercial debt, to refinance long-term

debt, or to expand the business.
- 41 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

The SBA’s assistance is in the form of loans up to an amount of $2,000,000 at an interest rate of 4

percent. The SBA must have a reasonable assurance that such loans can and will be repaid. Collateral is

required for all MREIDLs over $50,000. The SBA will not decline a loan for lack of collateral, but SBA

will require the borrower to pledge collateral that is available.

If a service member is deemed an essential employee at the small business for which he or she works,

the small business may file for assistance from the date the service member received notice of expected

call-up to active duty. The period of eligibility to apply for assistance extends until one year after the date

in which the service member is discharged or released from active duty. To apply for the MREIDL, the

small business will need to complete an application package that includes

• financial information normally required for any loan;

• a copy of the service member’s notice of expected call-up to active duty, official call-up orders, or. .

discharge or release papers from active duty status;

• a statement from the small business owner that the service member is essential to the day-to-day

operations of the business along with a written concurrence by the essential employee;

• a written explanation and estimate of how the service member’s activation to military service has or

will result in the small business experiencing substantial economic injury;

• a description of the steps the business is taking to alleviate the substantial economic injury; and

• a certification from the small business owner that the service member will be offered the same job or

similar job upon his or her return from active duty.

For a MREIDL application and information, contact the Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center

at 1-800-659-2955 or by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. 
- 42 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Preparing Families for Deployment

Although getting personal affairs in order prior to a deployment is necessary, preparing service members’

families for the possibility of deployment is an equally critical aspect of preparedness. Proper preparation

can make the entire deployment less stressful for the entire family and can help them become more selfsufficient.

Preparing Spouses for Deployment

Good communication is essential to preparing 

service members and their families to face 

the emotional and material challenges of a 

deployment.

7 During a deployment, service members and their

families face many challenges. Although families do not

have to cope with the direct emotional trauma of the

possibility of hostile fire, spouses, children, and parents

face other emotional and material hardships while service members are away. Good communication is

essential to preparing service members and their families to handle these challenges. Service members

should also ensure that their families are aware of the various support services available on military

installations to help them manage during the deployment.

Spouse Education and Career Services

While service members are deployed, the demands of the spouse’s job may feel overwhelming,

considering that he or she is now the head of the household and often a temporary single-parent. Some

spouses may want to use the time to begin or complete their education or to find a new job. Military

OneSource (1-800-342-9647) offers spouses a wealth of education and career information. Military

OneSource can help spouses assess their career interests and aptitudes, and identify the high-demand,

high-growth, portable careers suitable to the military lifestyle. The installation family center provides

employment assistance services including resume writing, interviewing skills, and tips on obtaining

federal employment.

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) Program, which offers financial

assistance for education or training, is available to spouses of active duty service members in the ranks of

E1-E5, warrant officers in the ranks of W1-W2, and officers in the ranks of O1-O2. Spouses of Reserve

service members serving on active duty and spouses of National Guard service members serving on

active duty on Title 10 orders are also eligible. The lifetime benefit is $4,000 and is limited to spouses

seeking an associate’s degree or a license or credential necessary for a portable career. The annual cap

is $2,000. Once $2,000 has been funded, spouses will be required to contact a Military OneSource

consultant to verify that their career plan is on track prior to approval of additional financial assistance.

Spouses can access the MyCAA online portal to apply for financial assistance.

Military spouses seeking a bachelor’s or advanced degree may contact Military OneSource at 1-800-

342-9647 to learn about additional financial resources to assist with education and training. Military
- 43 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

OneSource provides expanded services for military spouses seeking assistance with education and careerrelated matters. Military OneSource Spouse Education and Career Consultants assist with education

and training, career exploration, assessment, employment readiness, and career search assistance.

Through the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities Program, spouses have access to trained

education and career advisers to assist them with the MyCAA application process and other career and

education issues. Military OneSource can be reached through their website or by phone stateside at

1-800-342-9647. The website lists specific dialing information for other countries.

Emotional Cycle of Deployment

Service members preparing for a deployment should keep in mind that their spouses are making

adjustments and preparations as well. Besides the emotional stress of being separated physically

from their partner for a long period of time, spouses will also have to take over all of the household

responsibilities. Service members and their spouses may go through a range of emotions while preparing

for, being on, and returning from deployment. It is important for both service members and spouses to

recognize that these feelings are normal and that it will help to talk through feelings and expectations.

The more service members and their spouses work together to understand each other and the feelings

and concerns that they have regarding a deployment, the easier it will be for both to manage the

separation and address any problems as they arise.

7 Preparing for a deployment can often be stressful for family members.

Developed by Family Readiness through Education on Deployments (FRED), the following

emotional cycle of deployment describes potential changes in spouses’ behaviors and emotions during

a deployment. There are seven stages: two stages associated with pre-deployment, three during

deployment, and two more once service members return home. Service members should remember

that the feelings and emotions described below are completely normal. Healthy families are able to

communicate and work through them together.

Anticipation of departure

Once service members receive orders to mobilize, they may be working longer hours to help the unit

prepare for the upcoming deployment. When working late, spouses are often alone, knowing that service

members will be leaving soon. Service members may be feeling the stress of long days at work and this

may carry over to home life, causing friction between them and their spouses. As deployment nears,

service members may also be justifiably stressed and anxious, but should consider that their spouses are

also going through a stressful time. It is not uncommon for spouses to protest, feel tense, be frustrated,

and avoid the reality of the deployment. Spouses may alternate between denying the upcoming departure

and anticipating the sorrow and stress they will feel when service members leave.
- 44 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Detachment and withdrawal

This stage typically occurs during the final week or days before deployment. Long days and taking

care of everything that needs to be accomplished before the deployment may have taken their toll on

service members physically and emotionally. Service members may be spending more time with the

unit, creating emotional distance between themselves and their spouses. Spouses may be angry and may

unconsciously create emotional distance from service members to protect themselves against the hurt

that they are feeling.

Emotional disorganization

During the deployment, spouses have to create new routines to manage household responsibilities.

Spouses may become depressed and withdraw from friends and neighbors or may feel overwhelmed by

having sole responsibility for family affairs especially if they are employed, are in school, or trying to

balance child care and parenting responsibilities. In cases of back-to-back deployments, service members

may think that their spouses will have an easier time adjusting to the departure. Although they may

be familiar with the routine, spouses also may be experiencing “burn-out” and fatigue from the last

deployment and may feel overwhelmed at the thought of starting the whole cycle again. As spouses

settle into new routines and see that they can manage while service members are away, those feelings

of emotional disorganization may go away. Spouses can reduce their level of stress if they can establish

strong support networks of family and friends who can assist with the demands of child care, parenting,

school, work, and household maintenance.

Recovery and stabilization

Recovery and stabilization occur once spouses get comfortable with the new daily routines and realize

that they are able to manage the family affairs. During this time, spouses develop increased confidence

in their ability to maintain the household in their service members’ absence and may take pride in their

ability to cope on their own. During back-to-back deployments, spouses may find it more difficult to

gather the strength required to reach this stage. Having a strong support network in place will lessen the

impact of multiple and back-to-back deployments.

Anticipation of return

As the end of the deployment nears, spouses will certainly be very excited, but they might also have

some concerns or questions. Spouses’ newfound independence will change when service members return,

and spouses may begin to worry about how this change will impact their daily life. Spouses may enjoy

some of their new responsibilities and may be reluctant to turn them back over to their service members.

Spouses may have started doing some things differently and may be unsure of how their service members

will respond when they return. Before a deployment, service members and their family members may

want to discuss realistic expectations for the return and reintegration. This includes how family life, child

care, and routines may change due to a spouse returning to school or work.
- 45 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Return adjustment and renegotiation

Once service members return from deployment and the initial excitement of being reunited subsides,

reality sets in. Service members and their families may have to reset their expectations and will need to

renegotiate roles during this time. Spouses will need to make changes in daily routines to accommodate

service members and may feel stifled over the loss of complete independence. There may be more tension

and arguing as service members and their spouses reevaluate and redefine their mutual expectations and

roles. The key to success during this stage is open communication. Families can better prepare for this

stage by educating themselves about the effects of, and how to cope with, combat stress and trauma.

Being able to identify potential warning signs and knowing where to go for assistance when problems

become unmanageable can help service members and their families to more easily navigate this challenge

should it arise. Private, confidential, no-cost counseling services and referrals are available by calling

Military OneSource consultants at 1-800-342-9647. The website lists specific dialing information for

other countries.

Reintegration and stabilization

During this stage, things will reach a new normal. Although this may take a couple of months, service

members and their spouses will eventually work things out and stabilize their relationships anew. Similar

to the return adjustment and renegotiation stage, deployment-related stress may have a negative impact

on the family during this stage. Permanent change of station (PCS) moves that occur immediately

after return and back-to-back deployments can also disrupt this stage. The effects of relocation are

compounded if they affect spouse and family member educational enrollments and employment. 

Families can successfully work together to reach the stabilization phase even when facing these

additional challenges.

Recommendations for Preparing for Deployment

Even families that have experienced a 

deployment in the past may experience new 

difficulties and react differently to the next one.

7 No matter how prepared service members and their

families are before the deployment, no one can predict

all of the issues that may come up or how the time in

theater will affect them. Building a family’s ability to

adapt well to unexpected changes and events can help service members and their families to better

manage stress and feelings of anxiety. Building family resiliency does not mean that service members or

their families won’t experience stress or strong emotions during the deployment; it does mean that they

can learn behaviors, thoughts, and actions that help them adapt to unexpected events and stressful

situations in a healthier, more productive way. Family resilience is enhanced by properly preparing

families for the deployment, setting personal and family goals during deployment to prevent boredom,

anxiety and loneliness, connecting with strong support networks of family and friends, maintaining

frequent contact while service members are away, and ensuring that families know where to go for help if

they need it. 
- 46 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Express feelings with the service member and children

Spouses should be open to talking about how they feel during the period leading up to a deployment,

and should not be afraid to admit feelings of sadness, self-doubt, fear, or loneliness to the deploying

spouse or to the children. Most parents who have faced deployments in the past agree that sharing

these feelings can really help in the long run. It may also make children feel more comfortable talking

about their own fears and worries with their parents. It is much easier to address concerns when they are

expressed openly and honestly within the comfort and security of the family.

Take note of important dates

To help stay organized, service members and their spouses may want to create a calendar highlighting

important dates, such as birthdates, holidays, anniversaries, vehicle safety inspection renewal dates,

vehicle tag renewal dates, the date for filing taxes, payment due dates and amounts, important dates for

school and work, etc. Organizing a calendar can help spouses feel more in control and can decrease the

likelihood of missing important dates during the deployment.

Ensure that spouses know where important documents are stored

Service members should make sure their spouses know where important documents are located in the

home. Spouses should know where important legal documents, such as a last will and testament or

power of attorney, are located, as well as their service member’s family care plan, any information on life

insurance policies, and the pre-authorization for emergency financial assistance (if completed). Spouses

should also know if there are critical documents stored in locations outside of the home, such as safe

deposit boxes, and should have access to them. If important information is stored in computers or on

other electronic media, service members and spouses should discuss access that may be necessary in case

of emergency.

Establish an emergency plan

Service members and their spouses should consider establishing an emergency plan. The plan could

address who will care for children and pets should the spouse become ill or be involved in an accident,

and how to reach that person. It should also include contact information for other family members who

should be contacted if the spouse becomes ill or hurt in any significant way. Service members may want

to coordinate with their Rear Detachment Commander (RDC) or with local neighbors to ensure that

someone is aware of where the emergency plan is located. In addition to the emergency plan, service

members should make sure that their spouses have contact information for Commanders, RDCs,

military ombudsman networks, family readiness groups (FRG), or Family Readiness Officers (FRO),

and the American Red Cross.

Get spouses involved with the unit when preparing for a separation

Although family members are not required to attend pre-deployment briefings, meetings, and chats,

spouses are encouraged to attend. These forums provide information on the deployment and the

agencies and resources that will be beneficial to both service members and their spouses during the
- 47 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

deployment. During these events, spouses can also become acquainted with the RDC as well as the local

military ombudsman network, FRG for the Army, or FRO for the Marine Corps.

Preparing the Family Finances

Service members and their families should agree 

on how to manage money before the deployment.

7 When service members deploy, both the amount and

the composition of their pay will change. Service

members will probably receive special pays and benefits

that they normally would not receive. Managing family finances can be a huge challenge during

deployment. It is critical to develop a financial plan together before the actual deployment. Agreeing on

how to manage money before the deployment will make it easier for the family to stick to the plan while

the service member is deployed. For strategies on how to manage money, communicate about money, or

put together a financial or spending plan, service members and their spouses should see their installation

Personal Financial Manager (PFM) or contact Military OneSource.

Make a solid plan

Making a financial plan and deciding what to do with extra money require significant thought and

discussion. Some families use extra income to pay down debt, build up emergency and long-term savings

accounts, or invest in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), the Savings Deposit Program (SDP), Individual

Retirement Accounts (IRA), Certificates of Deposit (CD), etc. Families may also decide to use the extra

money to make small repairs to their home or automobiles.

Do not rely on extra pay for daily expenses

Service members and their families should not get used to spending the extra money they may be

receiving during the deployment. New spending habits can be hard to break. Any extra pays and benefits

service members receive will eventually stop, leaving them with the same income they had before the

deployment.

Closely monitor spending

If multiple people have access to and are withdrawing money from the same account (e.g., a husband

and wife), there is a possibility that these accounts could get overdrawn. It is important for service

members and their spouses to plan to communicate with each other about withdrawals from the account,

especially during times when the account balance is already low.

Most banks and credit unions have online banking that will let service members and their families

monitor balances quickly and easily. Some services also allow email or text alerts to cell phones or other

hand-held devices regarding any transactions or when balances reach a certain amount. Service members

can also find “account aggregation tools” online, which can electronically access all accounts and display

the balances and activity on a single page, allowing them to keep track of multiple accounts without

having to go to multiple web pages.
- 48 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Planning for Keeping in Touch with Family

Regular communication with family during a deployment can really help maintain peace of mind.

Positive letters, emails, or videos from family can be the biggest morale builder for deployed service

members.

Prior to a deployment, service members and their families should 

make a communication plan and agree on how often they will 

communicate, how they will communicate, and what type of 

information they will share.

7

Family members need to understand that there may be times when the service member will not be

able to communicate due to mission requirements. Service members need to understand that for many

families, “no news is bad news.” If service members are unable to contact their family on a previously

agreed upon day, they should try to communicate with them as soon as possible thereafter to alleviate

any of their families’ worries.

During the deployment, service members and their families can communicate through numerous

methods such as letters, emails, telephone calls, video recordings, pictures, video teleconferencing, and

care packages. More information on the various methods of communication and staying in touch can be

found in the Communicating with Deployed Service Members section of this guide.

Planning for Family Emergencies

Prior to a deployment, family members should be aware of the 

different ways to get in touch with deployed service members in 

emergency situations.

7 Regardless of how well service members

and their families plan, emergency

situations may arise at home or in the

deployed theater. Family members

should understand the different ways in which the military may contact them in case of emergencies in

the deployed theater. Service members and their families should also decide together who spouses should

contact, such as a friend or other family member, for support during emergency situations.

Emergency contact information

Before a deployment, service members should ensure that their unit has emergency contact information

for their spouses as well as any other people who may be able to assist with an emergency during the

deployment. These other people could include neighbors, friends, and family that can help the spouse

if needed. Service members should also provide their unit with a list of who is authorized to pick up

children, if the spouse is unable to do so, and directions to their house. Due to the personal nature of

the information provided, this document will remain sealed unless needed in the event of a mishap or

emergency. This does not replace a service member’s DD Form 93, “Record of Emergency Data.” Units

should be able to provide additional information regarding what to include in this document.
- 49 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Emergencies at home

There are several ways for families to contact deployed service members in case of an emergency at

home. Families can contact the Rear Detachment (RD), contact the unit’s ombudsman network,

FRG, or FRO, or send a Red Cross emergency message. The American Red Cross serves as a link

between deployed service members and their families during crisis situations and can quickly send

communications on behalf of families.

In some cases, the emergency at home cannot be resolved without the service member’s presence. If

certain situations arise and are verified by the American Red Cross, service members may be authorized

emergency leave. Service members will not be granted emergency leave until their commanding

officers receive verification of the emergency from the Red Cross. Families should begin the process by

contacting their local Red Cross chapter. After the Red Cross verifies the emergency, they will contact

the unit’s chain of command to request the leave. Emergency leave will only be granted under a small

number of circumstances such as:

• the death of a member of the service member’s or spouse’s immediate family

• circumstances in which the service member’s return will contribute to the welfare of a dying member 

of the service member’s or spouse’s immediate family

• the serious illness or injury of the service member’s or spouse’s immediate family

• circumstances in which the service member’s failure to return would cause severe or unusual hardship

to the service member or family

Emergencies in the deployed theater

If service members have an emergency in theater, their families will be notified through a chaplain,

the Red Cross, or the military chain of command. These individuals and organizations will alert the

service member’s family personally, not over the telephone. Families should understand that information

received from any other source or through any other medium (e.g., by phone, through email, etc.) is not

reliable unless verified by one of these three official channels. If a family hears something through the

“grape-vine,” they should contact the chaplain, Red Cross, or the service member’s chain of command to

verify the accuracy or inaccuracy of the information.

In the unfortunate event of a serious injury, illness, or death while on deployment, a uniformed member

of the military will notify the family in person. A chaplain often accompanies this uniformed service

member during notification. Again, the only reliable information is that which flows through this

channel of communication. If a family hears from any other source that their service member is ill,

injured, or has died, they should immediately contact the installation casualty assistance office to verify

the information.
- 50 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Planning for the Possibility of Disaster

Before a deployment, service members should 

ensure that their families are as prepared as 

possible for a natural or manmade disaster.

7 Disasters often occur with little or no warning, but by

taking precautionary measures, service members can

ensure that their families will be as ready as possible.

“In case of emergency” contacts

Each member of the family should know his or her “in case of emergency” contacts. For family members

with cell phones, consider adding an entry to their saved contacts labeled “in case of emergency.” Service

members should also provide their command and ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO with information

on how to locate their families in the event of a disaster.

Preparatory actions

To prepare for such an event, service members should ensure that their families have a basic disaster

supplies kit including a three-day supply of non-perishable food such as canned meats, fruits, and

vegetables; canned or boxed juices, milk, or soup; powdered milk and beverages; dried fruits and nuts,

etc. The kit should also contain a three-day supply of water, measured as one gallon per person per day.

Battery-powered flashlights, first aid supplies, radios, televisions, and cell phones should also be included

in the kit. Other items to consider include sanitation and hygiene items; matches in a waterproof

container; kitchen utensils; a fire extinguisher; cash; photocopies of credit cards and identification cards;

plastic and duct tape for doors and windows; tools such as pliers and wrenches; prescription medications;

contact lens solution; at least one complete change of clothing for each member of the family; pillows,

blankets, and sleeping bags; and infant-specific items (pacifiers, formula, etc.) if necessary.

In addition to the basic disaster kit, service members should ensure that their families are aware of

the command’s telephone number and the number of the ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO. Any

important documents should be stored in a waterproof container. Service members and their families

should also develop a plan for what they will do in the event of a disaster, including how family members

will check in with each other and whether the family will remain at the installation or their home.

Service members can ensure their families are connected to the unit 

during an emergency through the unit ombudsman, FRG, or FRO.”

7

Recommended actions if the family decides not to evacuate 

If families decide to remain in the home during a disaster, they should identify a safe room in the house.

They should also contact the command and ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO to inform them that

they are not evacuating. All valuables and important heirlooms should be moved to the room with the

family. Electrical appliances should be unplugged, and items such as computers should be moved into

the safe room. Perishable items in the refrigerator and freezer should be disposed of except for a small

amount of necessary refrigerated items that can be kept in a cooler with ice. Families should fill the
- 51 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

bathtubs and any additional coolers with water to use to flush toilets, bathe, cook, and clean in case the

local water supply becomes compromised after a disaster.

Recommended actions if the family evacuates

If families decide to evacuate prior to a disaster, they should first pack and take all relevant supplies from

the basic disaster supply kit. If possible, they should also notify the command and ombudsman network,

FRG, or FRO that they will be leaving and provide them with updated contact information. When

evacuating, the family should consider bringing all valuables and heirlooms with them, unplugging

electronics and moving them to a safe and high location, emptying the refrigerator and freezer of

perishable items, securing their home inside and out, turning off electricity, water, and gas at a main

connection, placing important papers in a secured waterproof container, taking medical prescriptions

in their original bottles and written copies of prescriptions (if available), and taking their checkbooks,

personal telephones, and copies of any recent state and federal tax returns.

Additional resources for disaster preparedness

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross provide support

to people in areas affected by natural and manmade disasters. Both of these organizations provide

resources and information to help prepare before a disaster strikes, mitigate the effects of the disaster,

and provide response and recovery planning resources.

Preparing Parents for the Deployment

Many of the same tips for staying in touch with spouses apply to parents of service members as well.

Ensuring that parents are informed while service members are deployed is especially important for single

service members. The military does not always extend the same benefits to parents of service members,

so ensuring that parents are kept informed is primarily the responsibility of the service member. If

deployed service members are married, spouses can help ensure that parents are kept informed.

Before a deployment, service members should discuss a plan for 

communicating with their parents and make sure that parents have 

an address for sending letters and care packages. 

7

Service members should consider giving parents the contact information for the unit and ensure that

parents are aware of how to request and receive information. Service members may also want to check

to see if their unit or command provides newsletters, has a phone tree, or website. Service members may

need to provide their parents’ contact information to the unit if they want their parents to be included in,

or have access to, some of these communication resources.
- 52 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Preparing Children for Deployment

Military children make sacrifices every day as they support and provide motivation for their service

member parents. With the tempo of today’s military, these children are sacrificing more than those of

the past. Lengthy deployments and longer working hours for service members at home all lead to less

quality time with parents. During a deployment, it is especially important that both spouses or caregivers

and children are aware of and have access to the support programs and services available throughout the

military community, regardless of whether they live near a military installation.

Along with these support programs and services, individual

families should prepare their children by talking about the

upcoming or possible deployment. By identifying potential signs

of distress in children early and by using good coping strategies,

service members and their spouses can help to lessen some of the

effects of the deployment on children. Deployment, though a very

difficult time for children, can also foster a sense of maturity and

strengthen family relationships.

Recommendations for Preparing Children 

for Deployment

A service member’s deployment can be emotionally challenging

for any family members left behind, but can be particularly

difficult for children. Although children’s reactions to adversity

vary with differing personalities, ages, and coping skills, a change

in their lifestyle as significant as a deployment can sadden,

confuse, depress, or anger any child. Service members and their

spouses may wonder how the separation will impact children. Talking to children about the deployment

will help them understand why service members will be gone and how they will be cared for in the

service member’s absence. Service members and their families should make a family plan for tackling

different household responsibilities prior to the deployment. This plan will help children feel as though

they have important roles in the household and as though they are making the deployment a little easier

for everyone to manage. Even if children have gone through other deployments, each separation brings

its own challenges, and new issues may surface as children grow older and become more aware.

Preparing children ahead of time can make 

the separation feel a little less stressful and 

more manageable for everyone. 

7 When preparing children for a deployment, service

members may want to consider the following

recommendations.
- 53 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Be truthful 

Children can often sense when they are not being told the truth. As soon as service members and their

families start to plan for the deployment, they should sit down and talk openly and honestly with their

children. Some parents worry that talking about it too far in advance will only give children more time

to worry about the deployment. However, by speaking openly with them, service members and their

spouses may be able to help their children adjust to the idea in advance and work through their emotions

and reactions related to the upcoming deployment. Children’s imaginations often paint a far worse

picture than reality, and candid discussion can ease children’s minds and prevent them from worrying

unnecessarily.

Be available for children

Before the deployment, service members should be available to talk with their children whenever

children express the need. Children need time to process what the service member has told them about

the deployment and may have questions later. Service members should let their children know that they

can ask questions whenever they think of them.

Reassure children

Children may need to be reassured that if their service member parent does happen to face danger, the

service member is well-trained to be careful and will do everything he or she can to stay safe.

Share feelings with children

By sharing feelings with children, service members can encourage their children to communicate openly.

Service members should let their children know that worry and negative thoughts and feelings are

normal.

Give children responsibilities

Children may be concerned that in a service member’s absence, they will have to do everything around

the house. Before the deployment, service members and their spouses should bestow, rather than dump,

responsibilities on children. Service members and their spouses should let their children know that they

have faith in their children’s abilities. By making a show of giving responsibilities to children, service

members and their spouses convey that the children are important members of the family.

Explore the service member’s destination

Service members can use a map or a globe to show children where they are going and how they will be

getting there. Service members can research the location with their children to find out about things

like weather conditions, cultural norms, or products made in that region. By educating children about

where the deployment will be, service members may be able to prevent their children from imagining

conditions far worse than what the service member will actually face and ease their children’s minds.
- 54 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Children need to see the parent’s workplace

It is often difficult for younger children to really understand what is happening during a deployment.

It may be easier for them to accept and process the separation if they can see where their mom or dad

will be eating, sleeping, and working while deployed. Through pictures or videos, service members can

provide children a concrete image of where their parent is when they cannot come home at night. Older

children may also be curious about where their parent is spending time, but they may be more interested

in what their parent is doing at work to help protect the nation.

Establish a plan for communicating with children

Service members should discuss with their children ways to keep in touch before the deployment.

Service members and their spouses can help children to brainstorm ways to communicate beyond letterwriting, such as cassette tape exchanges, photographs, encoded messages, “puzzle messages” (letters cut

into puzzle parts that must be assembled to be read), and special stationary only used for writing to

the deployed parent. Depending on availability, service members may even be able to use some social

networking sites to send videos back and forth. By regularly communicating with children during the

deployment, service members can maintain a connection between themselves and their children.

Communicate with teachers

If children are in school, service members may wish to talk with their children’s teachers to let them

know what is going on at home. Single service members can leave stamped, addressed envelopes with

the teacher and ask them to send information about the children’s progress and school newsletters.

Children’s teachers should also be informed of the service member’s deployment so that they may have

a better understanding of the situation if children’s behaviors change while the service member is away.

Design an activity to measure time.

Service members and their spouses can create a way for children to mark and measure the time during

the deployment. Service members can work with younger children to create a paper chain with a link

for each week the service member will be gone so that the child can break a link each week and count

down the days to their parent’s return. If the deployment is extended, the spouse or caregiver can add

additional links with the child as a good visual tool for explaining that the service member will be gone a

little longer than expected. For older children, service members can choose a book that both the service

member and child will enjoy and schedule a pre-assigned portion that both read for each day the service

member is gone.

Spend one-on-one time with each child

In the days leading up to a deployment, service members are likely to be very busy with unit

responsibilities. Even though he or she will have limited free time, it is very important that the deploying

service member spend some quality, one-on-one time with each child before deploying. Service members

and their spouses should encourage their children to help plan a special outing or activity with their

deploying parent. This time should really be all about the children and making them feel special.
- 55 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Let children help the service member pack

By allowing children to help pack, service members will help their children to feel more involved with,

and in control of, the process. Service members can even let their children pack special items, like a

child’s stuffed animal or photographs of the service member and the child together.

Give each child a picture

Before the deployment, service members can give each one of their children a picture of the service

member for their children to keep.

Say goodbye

Saying goodbye on deployment day is certainly never easy. Service members may be leaving during the

early morning hours, and feel it best to say goodbye at bedtime, but many children prefer to be awakened

for that last goodbye hug. Service members should consider their children’s ages and temperaments

when deciding how best to say goodbye.

Parenting during Deployment

When preparing for a deployment, service members should talk with their spouses or their children’s

future caregivers to ensure that they are prepared to manage the children during the deployment and

make plans to address any areas where additional support may be needed. Service members may wish to

consider the following recommendations for helping their spouses cope during a deployment.

By planning ahead of time, service members can help ensure that 

their spouses are prepared for the challenges of single parenting 

during the deployment.

7

Maintain a routine

By maintaining a standard routine while service members are gone, such as regular mealtimes and

bedtimes, spouses or caregivers can help make children feel more secure. Service members should

encourage their spouses or caregivers to keep the same family rules used now and to continue scheduling

any activities that children enjoy when both parents are home.

Continue family traditions

Service members should encourage their spouses or caregivers to continue any family traditions during

the deployment such as pizza night, movie night, or other family activities. Maintaining traditions help

children to feel more stable during a stressful and sometimes chaotic time in their lives.

Talk to children

Studies of children of deployed parents have shown that children are often more worried about their
- 56 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

parent who remains at home than their deployed parent. If spouses or caregivers become short, cross,

or emotional around the children, the children’s fantasies about what is actually going on are frequently

far worse than reality. Service members should encourage their spouses or caregivers to talk openly with

their children about their feelings whenever it is appropriate to do so. If children know why a spouse or

caregiver is feeling a certain way, it will be much easier to manage. If spouses are in school or working

outside the home, there may be opportunities to build self-esteem in children who express an interest in

helping the stay-behind parent.

Be consistent with discipline

Service members and their spouses or caregivers should discuss consistency in discipline techniques.

Children should not have free reign during the deployment and should not be threatened with “wait unit

your father/mother gets home.” It will be difficult for children to look forward to seeing their deployed

parent again if they are expecting punishment.

Let children know their contributions are valuable

While a service member is away on deployment, children will most likely have to do more chores around

the house. Service members and their spouses or caregivers can identify ways to reassure their children

regularly that the children’s contributions to the household are valuable and that by helping out, they are

easing the stress for the whole family.

Encourage children to write

By encouraging children to send their own letters, pictures, schoolwork, etc., deployed service members

can strengthen the bond between themselves and their children. When service members receive a letter

from one of their children, they should write back specifically to that child.

Talk about the service member

Service members should encourage their spouses or caregivers to talk about them in daily conversation

with the children and to think of ways to keep the connection between the service member and the

children alive and current. Spouses or caregivers can set aside five minutes each day for children to write

short notes or draw pictures for their deployed parents.

Be aware of military family support programs

Service members should ensure that their spouses or caregivers are aware of the various deployment and

family support programs. Spouses or caregivers may need these support systems while service members

are deployed and it is better to know about them ahead of time before a real need arises.
- 57 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Signs of Distress in Children

Although service members and their spouses may feel secure leading up to and during the deployment,

they cannot always prevent their children from experiencing emotional stress. Fear for the service

member’s safety and general concerns for the spouse may trouble children and lead to separation anxiety.

Service members should encourage their spouses or caregivers to watch out for any of the following

symptoms that may signify that their children are having difficulty coping with the deployment. The

presence of some of these signs does not necessarily mean that children are negatively impacted by

deployment, but they are good things to watch for and be aware of while the service member is away.

Spouses or caregivers should be encouraged to seek out support if they notice that these signs are

continuing and/or negatively impacting their children’s health or emotional well-being on a daily basis.

Spouses or caregivers can help children by being aware of potential signs of distress

Infants and toddlers

• changing eating and sleeping patterns

• wanting to be held more

• being fussier than usual

• showing regression in development such as walking, talking, or potty training

• crying unexpectedly or for no reason

• clinging to people or a favorite toy/blanket

Preschool or kindergarten-age children

• clinging to people or a favorite toy/blanket

• crying unexpectedly or tearfulness

• preferring adults over same-age playmates

• engaging in increased acts of violence toward people or things

• shrinking away from people or becoming very quiet

• having difficulty sleeping (waking, bad dreams)

• having difficulty eating or changing eating patterns

• fearing new people or situations

• keeping the spouse or primary caregiver constantly in view

• worrying about everyone’s safety
- 58 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Spouses or caregivers can help children by being aware of potential signs of distress

School-age children

• clinging to people or a favorite toy/blanket

• crying unexpectedly or tearfulness

• preferring adults over same-age playmates

• engaging in increased acts of violence toward people or things

• shrinking away from people or becoming very quiet

• having difficulty sleeping (waking, bad dreams)

• having difficulty eating or changing eating patterns

• fearing new people or situations

• keeping the spouse or primary caregiver constantly in view

• complaining more about stomachaches, headaches, or other illnesses when nothing seems

physically wrong

• being more irritable and crabby

• having problems at school such as a drop in grades, no desire to go, or general complaints

• being angry at the spouse

• worrying constantly about the family’s welfare and finances

Adolescents

• crying unexpectedly or tearfulness

• preferring to spend time with adults as opposed to same-age friends

• engaging in increased acts of violence toward people or things

• shrinking away from people or becoming very quiet

• having difficulty sleeping (waking, bad dreams)

• having difficulty eating or changing eating patterns

• fearing new people or situations

• keeping the spouse or primary caregiver constantly in view

• complaining more about stomachaches, headaches, or other illnesses
- 59 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Spouses or caregivers can help children by being aware of potential signs of distress

Adolescents (continued)

• being more irritable and crabby

• having problems at school such as a drop in grades, no desire to go, or general complaints

• acting-out behaviors manifesting as trouble at school, trouble at home, or trouble with the law

• exhibiting low self-esteem and overly criticizing themselves

• misdirecting their anger at siblings or the spouse

• losing interest in hobbies, sports, or friends

Positive Impact of Deployment on Children

Deployments can have some positive effects on children as well. The service member’s time away can

present many growth opportunities for children. Several psychological studies have shown that despite

the stress children face during deployments, significant developmental gains can be made during this

time.

Increase in maturity

Children of service members face more challenging situations and have broader and more varied

experiences than children of non-service members. They often learn more about the rest of the world

and learn how to interact within a community at a younger age than their non-military counterparts.

When a service member deploys, children have the opportunity to learn more about the world and take

on additional responsibilities around the house. By assuming these additional responsibilities, children

can develop new skills, interests, and abilities.

Support of independence

As compared to other children, military children tend to be more resourceful and self-reliant. The

military lifestyle fosters children’s abilities to face and manage new situations and increases their selfconfidence in being able to build new friendships.

Strengthen family bonds

During a deployment, children will have to make emotional adjustments that may lead them to discover

new sources of strength and support in their siblings and their non-deployed parent.
- 60 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Family Readiness Checklists to Prepare Children for Deployment

The following checklists are designed to help prepare service members and their families for deployment.

These checklists provide tips that may be helpful in readying service members, their children, and their

children’s caregivers during the deployment.

Deployment Readiness Checklist for Expecting Parents

❒ Has the service member and spouse discussed their feelings about being separated during

pregnancy and the birth of a child?

❒ Will the spouse send pictures of herself throughout the pregnancy?

❒ Will she write or keep journals about doctor visits, the baby kicking, sonograms, etc.?

❒ Can the service member and spouses share books, articles, and websites about pregnancy,

childbirth, and parenting?

❒ Do the service member and spouse communicate openly about hopes, dreams, fears, and

expectations each have for the child?

❒ Do the service member and spouse have a support system – someone each can talk to about

concerns and feelings?

❒ Have the service member and spouse talked about using the American Red Cross for notification

of the baby’s birth?

❒ Is there a plan in place for when the baby is born? Is a family member attending the birth? Who

will be caring for other children while the spouse is in the hospital?

❒ Do the service member and spouse talk about how life will be different after the baby arrives and

the deployment is over?

Deployment Readiness Checklist for Parents of Infants and Toddlers

❒ Do the service member and spouse, or the child’s guardian, have a plan to keep the service member

informed of the developmental milestones infants or toddlers are achieving while the service

member is away such as crawling, walking, running, potty training, learning to talk, and increasing

their vocabulary?

❒ Are the service member and spouse or guardian aware of infants’ or toddlers’ preferences so that

the spouse or guardian can maintain a steady routine?

❒ Does the spouse or guardian know how infants or toddlers react to stress?

❒ Has the service member talked with the spouse or guardian about maintaining the rules and

routines in the family as much as possible during the deployment?

❒ Does the spouse or guardian have a plan for personal time?

❒ Do the service member and spouse or guardian have a good child care provider?

❒ Do the service member and spouse or guardians have a plan for keeping the service member

connected with items such as pictures, video/audio tapes, journals, etc.?
- 61 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

❒ Has the service member considered reading and recording his or her children’s favorite books or

songs on audio or video tape for them to listen to during the deployment?

❒ Has the service member considered giving children a special photograph of him or her with each

child to have during the deployment?

Deployment Readiness Checklist for Parents of Preschoolers

❒ Do the service member and spouse or guardian have a plan to keep the service member informed

of his or her preschooler’s developmental milestones such as expanding their vocabulary?

❒ Does the spouse or guardian know how the preschooler reacts to stress?

❒ Has the service member explained to his or her preschooler about the upcoming deployment and

that he or she has to go away for work for a while?

❒ Can the service member schedule extra one-on-one time with his or her preschooler before the

deployment?

❒ Has the service member spoken with the child’s school or day care teacher, informed them of the

upcoming deployment, and asked them to send copies of schoolwork?

❒ Can the service member arrange for the preschooler to spend time with grandparents or other

caring adults?

❒ Has the service member considered reading and recording his or her child’s favorite books or songs

on audio or video tape for the child to listen to during the deployment?

❒ Has the service member considered creating a photo album

of pictures of him or her with the child as a special keepsake

for the child during deployment?

Deployment Readiness Checklist for Parents of 

School-age Children

❒ Does the spouse or guardian know how the child will react

to stress?

❒ Have there been family meetings to discuss the deployment?

❒ Has the service member told his or her child where he or

she is going, and why he or she is going there? Has the

service member discussed when he or she will be returning

home, if known?

❒ Has the service member addressed any concerns his or her

child may have about safety?

❒ Has the service member created a communication plan with

his or her child and provided things like stationary, pens, markers, stamped and self-addressed

envelopes, etc?
- 62 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

❒ Did the service member include money in his or her budget for phone calls and gifts/souvenirs for

the children?

❒ Has the service member and the spouse or guardian made plans to help keep their children busy

during deployment with fun activities including sports, scouts, music, church, etc.?

❒ Has the service member spoken with his or her child’s school teacher, informed him or her of the

upcoming deployment, and asked that he or she send copies of schoolwork and report cards?

❒ Has the service member asked if his or her child’s school sponsors a discussion group or other

program for children of deployed military parents?

❒ Has the service member informed the school counselor of the upcoming deployment?

❒ Has the service member informed extended family members about the upcoming deployment and

asked them to keep in contact with the service member’s child?

❒ Has the service member considered creating a photo album of pictures of him or her and the child

doing things together?

❒ Has the service member considered leaving a personal item for each of his or her children to keep

until he or she returns?

Deployment Readiness Checklist for Parents of Teenagers

❒ Does the spouse or guardian know how teenagers react to stress?

❒ Has the service member held a family meeting to discuss the deployment?

❒ Has the service member told his or her teenagers where he or she is going and why he or she is

going there? Has the service member discussed when he or she will return, if known?

❒ Has the service member tried to address any concerns teens may have about the service member’s

safety?

❒ Has the service member created a communication plan with teenagers and given them email and

regular mail addresses?

❒ Has the service member reminded teenagers that schoolwork is important and that the service

member would like to receive progress reports?

❒ Has the service member asked if his or her teen’s school sponsors a discussion group or other

program for teens of deployed military parents?
- 63 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Housing Decisions for Families

When service members receive orders to deploy, families’ first impulse may be to move back home to

more familiar surroundings, closer to friends and family. While there are advantages to being among

family and old friends during the deployment, there are also many benefits to staying in the military

community. Before service members and their families decide whether to stay or go, it is important to

think through the advantages and disadvantages of each decision.

Prior to the deployment, service members and their families 

should carefully weigh the pros and cons of staying in the military 

community or moving back home.

7

Considerations for Staying or Going

The impact on children

It may be more difficult to move if children are involved. When there are younger children, spouses may

be tempted to move near friends or relatives who can help care for them. If children are older, moving

them may further disrupt their lives. These children are already dealing with significant changes in their

lives as a result of the deployment; moving away may only introduce more changes and stress. A move

will disrupt their education and cut them off from trusted sources of support, like friends, sports teams,

or clubs.

The need for special medical treatment for children

If any of the children have special needs, the installation’s Exceptional Family Member Program

(EFMP) works to ensure that the child has the support and resources that he or she requires. If spouses

move to a different location, that specialized care may not be readily available.

The ties to the community

If service members and their families have lived on or near a military installation for a period of time,

they probably have a number of friends and have become familiar with the local area. Whether they

have realized it or not, they may have also already developed support systems to help cope during the

deployment. Spouses may belong to a unit-related family group or a faith community, be close with their

neighbors, and have made friends with other military spouses.

The availability of housing

Before deciding whether to move back with parents or relatives, service members and their families may

want to find out how the parents or relatives feel about it. They may not be comfortable sharing their

house for an extended period of time. There may not be enough space in the house to accommodate the

family and children. Although the decision to move the family back home may come with the best of

intentions, it can create additional stress for the family and the parents or relatives. Rules for the service
- 64 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

member’s family may be different from parents’ or relatives’ rules and expectations for how things will be

while living with them may not align with reality.

The financial aspect of moving

Moving a family involves many costs. Service members and their

families will need to pay transportation costs for family members

and the costs for moving household belongings twice – once

when the family moves away and again when the family returns

to the installation. Families may not have enough space at the

new location for all of their possessions. They may have to rent

a storage unit to hold their possessions, adding more costs to the

move.

If families are currently renting a home, they may incur a penalty

from their landlord for breaking the lease. If service members and

their families entered into the lease before the service member

entered active duty or if service members received deployment

orders for ninety days or more, families may be able to get out

of their lease under protections afforded by the Servicemembers

Civil Relief Act (SCRA). Even if families are able to break their

lease without a penalty, the amount of the service member’s basic allowance for housing (BAH) may

not provide enough money to cover the new rent. The amount of BAH is based on the housing market

in the area around the installation. If families move to areas where the rent is more expensive than their

current BAH amount, they would be required to cover the difference. If service members and their

families have a mortgage on their house in the local area, they may still be required to make mortgage

payments in addition to any new rent payments they have at the new location. If they entered into the

mortgage before the service member began active duty, they may be able to receive temporary relief from

paying their mortgage under protections afforded by SCRA.

Continued availability of government quarters

If service members and their families currently live in government-provided housing, they may be forced

to forfeit their housing if they move away. If this is the case, service members and their families may

need to be placed back on the waiting list for housing (if one exists) when the service member returns

from deployment. If service members and their families live in government quarters and are considering

leaving, they may wish to check with the installation Housing Office to find out whether they can leave

their place vacant until the service member returns home from deployment.

Advantages of Staying 

Spouses may have very good reasons for wanting to leave the installation and move back with family.

They may need a break from the military lifestyle and the constant reminders of their service members’
- 65 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

deployments. They may be looking forward to having their extended family and old friends around to

provide support. They may even be able to save money by moving in with other family members. Before

making any final decisions, service members and their spouses should consider some of the advantages of

remaining at the installation throughout the deployment.

Constant routines for children

Although children may enjoy visiting their relatives, moving them to a new location will disrupt their

normal routines. Children often cope better during a deployment when their daily routines remain

intact.

Access to installation programs and services

When living on or near a military installation, spouses have easy access to military programs and

services such as the commissary, the exchange, recreational activities, family and community support,

legal assistance, and financial assistance. These programs and services can make it easier for spouses and

children to successfully navigate the deployment.

Access to family readiness and unit activities

Many units and installations conduct special activities and programs for family members of deployed

service members. Through these activities, spouses can meet others who share their experiences, increase

their support system by making new friends, and stay better connected with their service member’s unit.

Support from other military spouses

When spouses stay on or near the installation, they are surrounded by other spouses who are also dealing

with the deployment. It can be a source of comfort for spouses to be around other people who share

their experience. Friends and family back home may not understand the military lifestyle or the unique

circumstances and challenges of deployment. If this is the family’s first deployment, the spouse may be

able to connect with other spouses who have already been through a deployment to learn from their

experiences. If the family has been through a deployment in the past, the spouse and children can share

their experiences with other families and help some newer spouses get through their first separation.

Access to medical care

If spouses and children move away and need to see a health care provider, they may not be able to find a

preferred provider. If they are not able to find a preferred provider, they may be expected to pay for the

treatment themselves. By staying on or near the installation, families can continue to use their current

health care providers.

Opportunity to settle in

If families are new to the installation, they can start establishing routines and putting down roots during

the service members’ deployment. They may be able to make their service members’ transition back

home after the deployment easier if routines have been established and the family is settled.
- 66 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Moving Away

If spouses decide to move away from the installation and back to friends and family, there are some

important steps they should take to ensure that everything is in order.

If spouses decide to move away from the installation, they should 

make sure the unit knows how to reach them.

7

Provide contact information to the unit 

Service members and their families should let the unit, unit ombudsman, FRG, or FRO know that the

family is moving. If the service member’s unit needs to get in contact with the family for any reason, the

unit will not be able to if the family does not provide them with a new phone number and/or address. To

provide this information to the unit, service members and their families should contact the unit’s Rear

Detachment (RD), unit ombudsman, FRG, or FRO.

Change address with the post office

Before families move away, they should complete a change of address form through their local post

office. If they do not complete this form, their mail will not be forwarded to their new address. Change

of address forms can be found in any local post office or possibly through the local mail carrier.

Notify Housing Office or landlord of the move

If families live in government-owned housing, they need to notify the installation Housing Office that

they are moving out. Families may also want to check with the Housing Office to determine whether

they can leave their place vacant until they return after the deployment. If families live in rented housing

off of the installation, they need to notify their landlord that they will be moving out. Landlords may

require advance notice (often thirty days) before letting service members and their families out of the

lease.

Stay connected with military family support programs and the unit

Even though the family will be moving away, they should gather contact information for the family

support programs on the installation in case they need support during the deployment. These programs

can include the family center, FRGs, FROs, or ombudsman, depending on the branch of Service.

Spouses should make sure they know the contact information for the RD and how to find the unit

website to ensure that they can stay connected with the unit.

Once families move to their new location, they should consider looking for additional ways to stay

connected with other military spouses and support programs. Local Red Cross chapters and the nearest

National Guard facility can provide families with a good place to start when looking to connect with

other military families.
- 67 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Government Housing Waiting List 

If the family is on the waiting list for government housing at the time of a service member’s deployment,

the service member should notify the installation Housing Office prior to his or her deployment. The

spouse and children may be able to continue to move up the waiting list even while the service member

is deployed. Typically, housing offices have a “frozen zone” near the top of the waiting list where the

family will remain during the service member’s absence. If the service member provided the spouse with

a power of attorney and a copy for the installation Housing Office prior to deployment, the spouse and

children may be able to accept and move into government housing while the service member is deployed.

Service members and their families should notify the installation Housing Office if the family will not

accept government quarters during the deployment but wants to move in once the service member

returns home. Families may be able to be officially deferred and be held on the waiting list. For more

information on local housing and wait list policies, contact the installation Housing Office.

Key Organizations for Preparing Families 

for Deployment

While service members are deployed, families may feel overwhelmed and need assistance. There are

many programs and services on military installations and in the surrounding communities that provide

support and assistance to military families. The staff of these programs and services understands the

unique situations that affect family members of deployed service members and can help them to quickly

resolve their issues. These organizations can also help families get in contact with their service members

during family emergencies. Prior to the deployment, service members should ensure that their families

are aware of these programs and services and how to contact them for support.

The following sections provide an overview of these military and community-based programs and

services for families of deployed service members. In addition to the descriptions below, links to each of

the Service’s programs can be found in the “Applicable Websites” section of this guide.

Key Military Organizations 

Military Ombudsman Networks/Family Readiness Groups

The military ombudsman networks, family readiness groups (FRGs), or family readiness officers (FROs)

(depending on the branch of Service) serve as a direct link between families and commands for units.

These organizations are typically staffed by volunteers, many of whom are military family members.

During deployments, these organizations coordinate with the unit Rear Detachment Commander

(RDC) as a link to the deployed unit.
- 68 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Prior to a deployment, service members and 

their families should become familiar with the 

ombudsman networks, FRGs, or FROs within 

their branch of Service.

7 In addition to information, these organizations provide

support for families of deployed service members and

can provide assistance to families in coping with

personal matters while service members are away. Each

of the Services uses a different name for their

ombudsman networks or FRG, including the Army FRG, Marine Corps Unit Personal and Family

Readiness Program, Navy Ombudsman, Air Force Reserve Family Readiness Office (FRO), and the

Coast Guard Ombudsman. National Guard family support is provided through each State Family

Program Director (SFPD) and Airman and Family Readiness Program Manager (A&FRPM).

Family Training Programs

Family readiness is a combat multiplier, equally as important as individual, equipment and combat

readiness. The Services help enhance their readiness through various resiliency-building training courses

including topics such as basic information about the Service, family readiness, personal growth skills,

leadership skills, and pre- and post deployment-related trainings targeted to single service members,

families, and children.

Prior to a deployment, service members and their families should become familiar with the family

training programs and coordinate with their family training program or their military ombudsman

network/FRG/FRO to attend any training sessions that they believe will improve their resiliency during

the deployment.

Family Training Programs

Army Family Team

Building (AFTB)

Marine Corps Family Team

Building (MCFTB)

Navy Life Skills

Program

Air Force Community

Rear Detachment

The Rear Detachment (RD) is a staff of service members who stay on the installation while the rest

of the unit deploys. These members are responsible for many things including providing assistance to

families of deployed unit members. The RD coordinates with agencies on and off the installation to

meet families’ needs, works with the unit’s ombudsman network or FRG to plan and share information

with families, communicates with the deployed unit, facilitates mail delivery between service members

and their families, and distributes any leave and earnings statements. If spouses move during the

deployment, they should share the new address with the unit ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO and

the RD.
- 69 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Chaplains

Unit and installation chaplains are available to 

help families cope with the stress of a deployment.

7 Installation and unit chaplains can help families to

ensure that they are prepared and supported spiritually,

emotionally, and socially. In times of personal,

emotional, and marital difficulties, chaplains can provide counseling to help service members and their

families work through their problems. Chaplains have a deep understanding of the military lifestyle and

the challenges that arise for families during a deployment. They also have a wealth of information

regarding resources available to support service members and their families both on and off of the

installations.

Family Centers

Family centers provide assistance to service members and their families to help support them in meeting

the unique demands of the military lifestyle. Family centers provide assistance before, during, and after

a deployment through mobilization and deployment assistance, information and referral, personal

financial management, employment assistance for spouses, the coordination of volunteer opportunities,

relocation assistance, community outreach, family life education, and crisis assistance. Service members

and families are eligible to receive services from any family center, regardless of branch of Service or the

branch of Service of the family center. Each branch of Service uses a different name for family centers:

the Army Community Services (ACS) Center, the Marine and Family Services Center (MFSC), the

Navy Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC), and the Air Force Airman and Family Readiness

Center. The National Guard and the Reserve operate family centers on a limited (in many cases virtual)

basis depending on the numbers and concentration of families in a given area. The services provided at

these locations are available to members of the National Guard and Reserve and their families, as well as

active duty service members and their families when they are not located near an active duty installation.

Mobilization and deployment assistance

Family centers provide pre-deployment briefings to educate service members and their families on

what to expect during a deployment and where to go for help. During a deployment, family centers can

provide families with opportunities to use video teleconferencing equipment, access to the Internet, and

ongoing support and assistance.

Information and referral

Family centers can directly provide many of the programs and services spouses would need during a

deployment. When families need services not available through the family center, the information and

referral program can guide them to additional services, both on the installation and in the surrounding

civilian community. The unit ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO can also assist in providing such

information.
- 70 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Personal financial management

Even with careful financial preparations before a deployment, budget plans may need to be revisited.

Unforeseen circumstances may arise that require spouses to change the family budget. The personal

financial management office at the family center can provide spouses with assistance on reevaluating and

adjusting the budget to address these new financial issues.

Military OneSource offers a range of valuable financial assistance services to service members and

their families including up to twelve telephonic or face-to-face short-term financial counseling

sessions per issue per year with certified financial counselors at no cost to persons eligible for services.

MilitaryHOMEFRONT also provides useful financial information geared specifically towards service

members and their families.

Spouse education and career services

While service members are deployed, the demands of the spouse’s job may feel overwhelming,

considering that he or she is now the head of household and often a temporary single parent. Spouses

may be in need of respite care services for their children, social time with friends, and opportunities to

spend time with other spouses in similar situations. Some spouses may want to use the time to begin

or complete their education or to find a job. Military OneSource offers spouses a wealth of education

and career information. They can help spouses with assessing their career interests and aptitudes and to

identify the high-demand, high growth portable careers suitable to the military lifestyle. The installation

family centers provide employment assistance services related to resume writing, interviewing skills, and

tips on obtaining federal employment.

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) Program, which offers financial

assistance for education or training, is available to spouses of active duty service members in the ranks

of E1-E5, Warrant Officer 1-2, and Officer 1-2. Spouses of Reserve Component members serving on

active duty and spouses of National Guard members serving on active duty on Title 10 orders are also

eligible. The lifetime benefit is $4,000 and is limited to spouses seeking an Associate’s Degree or a

license or credential necessary for a portable career. The annual cap is $2,000. Once $2,000 has been

funded, spouses will be required to contact a Military OneSource consultant to verify that their career

plan is on track prior to approval of additional financial assistance. Spouses can access the MyCAA

online portal to apply for financial assistance.

Military spouses seeking a bachelor’s or an advanced degree may contact Military OneSource to learn

about additional financial resources to assist with education and training. Military OneSource provides

expanded services for military spouses seeking assistance with education and career-related matters.

Spouse Education and Career Consultants assist with education and training, career exploration,

assessment, employment readiness, and career search assistance. Through the Spouse Education and

Career Program, spouses have access to trained e advisers to assist them with the MyCAA application

process and other career and education issues. Military OneSource can be reached through their website

or by phone stateside at 1-800-342-9647. The website lists specific dialing information for other countries.
- 71 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Coordination of volunteer opportunities

The family centers coordinate volunteer opportunities for family members when they wish to become

involved in military and community activities. During a deployment, volunteering at a local school,

hospital, or other organization may provide spouses a break from worries and a feeling of pride and

empowerment while helping others.

Joint Family Support Assistance Program 

The Joint Family Support Assistance Program ( JFSAP) delivers high-quality, mobile family support

and services to families facing the same deployment-related challenges as installation-based families, but

whose access to support is more challenging. JFSAP teams are located at all National Guard state joint

force headquarters and operate in collaboration with existing family support resources, augmenting their

activities and filling gaps where they exist. JFSAP teams provide information and referrals to community

services and support; non-medical counseling and education to individuals, families, and groups; child

and youth services; financial education and counseling; on-demand support for deployment events such

as reunion ceremonies and pre-deployment meetings; and community capacity building to support

families’ access to local resources and support. Commanders can request on demand, surge resources for

deployment-related events through the centralized call center and online request form.

Project Youth Extension Service (YES) expands JFSAP resources by engaging college students across

the country for a year-long voluntary service opportunity supporting military families. College students

are trained in relevant curriculum and deployed to different states to provide programming and support

for children and youth. Project YES offers educational programming (curriculum and/or activities) that

is relevant, engaging, hands-on, and fun for children or youth.

Yellow Ribbon Program

The Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP) is a DoD-wide deployment and reintegration program supporting

National Guard and Reserve service members and their families. Yellow Ribbon events provide

information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities. Its overall goal is to help minimize

the stress of a deployment and family separation.

The YRP program is designed to help connect service members 

and their families with appropriate resources before, during, and 

after deployments.

7

The information provided at a YRP pre-deployment event should enhance the resiliency and preparation

of the service and family member for the upcoming deployment. During deployment, YRP events

build on and reinforce the education and information they received in the pre-deployment event. All

pre-deployment and during deployment events focus on facilitating reintegration back into families and

communities upon return from deployment. 
- 72 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Following deployment, the YRP provides services to returning Reserve and National Guard service

members, reconnecting them with their families, employers, and communities. Reintegration event

presentations address issues such as Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits and enrollment,

veterans service organizations, VA Vet Centers, military career counseling, TRICARE, Employer

Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), education benefits, suicide awareness, Department of

Labor (DOL), financial assistance, safety, service member record processing, and welcome home

activities. 

State National Guard and Reserve Components hold reintegration activities at approximately thirty-,

sixty-, and ninety-day intervals following demobilization. This ensures service members and their

families understand benefits, entitlements, and resources available to help them overcome the challenges

of reintegration. It also provides a forum through which they can address behaviors related to combat

stress, posttraumatic stress, and the challenges of transition and return to family, civilian life, civilian

employment, school, community, and other non-military activities.

Short-Term Counseling 

Military OneSource 

In addition to the counseling services provided at installation family centers, service members and

their families can receive free, non-medical counseling sessions from Military OneSource. Military

OneSource consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or

via email offering personalized support to any service member or immediate family member. Military

OneSource can connect individuals with a trained, state-licensed behavioral health professional for

free confidential/private counseling. The counseling is not designed to address long-term counseling

needs, such as child and spouse abuse, suicidal ideation, and mental illness; people in need of long-term

treatment are referred to a military medical treatment facility and/or TRICARE for services. Military

OneSource offers twelve free counseling sessions per person, per issue that are short-term, solutionfocused, and address a variety of topics such as improving relationships at home and at work, financial

issues, marital issues, grief and loss issues (normal reactions that would benefit from short-term support),

adjusting to a change in situation (such as a return from deployment or permanent change of duty

station), and other issues that are non-medical in nature.

Military and Family Life Counselors

Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLC) provide up to twelve confidential, non-medical,

short-term counseling sessions for every day issues such as anger management, stress, parenting,

communication, family relationships, deployment, and other military-related topics. MFLCs must

have a master’s degree or PhD in a mental health-related field, be licensed or certified to practice

independently, and undergo a background check. Situations requiring behavioral health treatment

are referred to behavioral health agencies that treat these conditions. MFLCs provide flexible service
- 73 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

delivery to meet specific installation demands. They work on a rotational basis for up to ninety days on

installations; provide on-demand support for pre-deployment, deployment, and post deployment events

for National Guard and Reserve service members and their families; and work in full-time positions to

support the JFSAP. MFLCs may be accessed through installation locations such as ACS, MFSC, FFSC,

and the Airman and Family Readiness Centers, and National Guard and Reserve Headquarters. 

Additionally, the MFLC program uses Children and Youth

Behavioral (CYB) MFLCs in a variety of settings. CYB-MFLCs

provide confidential, non-medical, short-term counseling to

service members, their families, faculty, staff, and children in

Child Development Centers, Department of Defense Education

Activity schools, local education activities (LEA), and summer

programs supporting military children. With parental consent,

CYB-MFLCs may provide support to children and adolescents

up to age eighteen on topics including, but not limited to,

problem solving, bullying, conflict resolution, self-esteem, coping

with deployment and reunification, sibling/parental relationships,

managing anger, time management, separation from parents, and

divorce.

TRICARE Assistance Program 

The web-based TRICARE Assistance Program (TRIAP) is

available to eligible United States beneficiaries and provides

online access to counseling for short-term, non-medical issues.

Eligible beneficiaries can access TRIAP an unlimited number of times, and services are confidential and

non-reportable. Eligible beneficiaries include active duty service members, active duty family members,

Selected Reserve service members and their families who are enrolled in TRICARE Select, and those

covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP). 

Morale, Welfare, and Recreation

While service members are deployed, it is important that family members take care of themselves and

take time to relax. Through the installation Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs, a

number of recreational outlets for families are available that can be a great way to burn off stress. Before

the deployment, service members may want to ensure that their family members are aware of these

opportunities and know how to access them. Typical recreational opportunities on installations include

gymnasiums, intramural and youth sports, bowling, swimming pools, libraries, sports facilities, parks and

picnic areas, outdoor recreation equipment check out, youth centers, theaters, and automotive and crafts

shops.
- 74 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Prior to the deployment, service members should ensure that family 

members are aware of MWR opportunities and how to access them.

7

Child Development Centers

Military installations offer high-quality child development programs at a cost competitive with the

surrounding community. Prior to a deployment, service members and their families should decide if

child care will be necessary and contact the installation child development program to learn more about

their child care options. If spouses or caregivers do not live near a military installation and cannot access

the installation child development programs, they can contact Military OneSource or the National

Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) for help locating quality,

affordable child care options in the community.

Relief Organizations

Each of the branches of Service offers emergency

financial assistance through their respective relief

organizations for service members and families who

demonstrate a financial need. If service members have

provided their family members with pre-authorization

for financial assistance or general power of attorney,

their family members can request emergency financial

assistance through these relief organizations.

Behavioral Health Counseling

Service members, family members, and retirees who

are TRICARE beneficiaries and are experiencing symptoms of stress, depression, grief, or anxiety are

eligible to receive outpatient behavioral health care services. TRICARE covers outpatient psychotherapy

at a maximum of two sessions per week in any combination of individual, family, collateral, or group

sessions. More information on TRICARE-covered outpatient behavioral health counseling is available

on the TRICARE Mental Health and Behavior website.

Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; if family members feel 

overwhelmed during the deployment, they should not hesitate to 

ask for help.

7

Military Pathways provides free, anonymous behavioral health and alcohol self-assessments for family

members and service members in all branches including the National Guard and Reserve. Military

Pathways is available online, over the phone, and at special events held at installations worldwide.

Self-assessments include a series of questions that, when linked together, help create a picture of how
- 75 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

an individual is feeling and whether he or she could benefit from talking to a health professional. The

primary goals of the program are to reduce stigma, to raise awareness about behavioral health, and to

connect those in need to available resources. The self-assessments address depression, posttraumatic

stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder, alcohol use, and bipolar disorder.

Key Community-Based Service Organizations 

Short-Term Counseling services

The Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) works with the Department of

Defense (DoD) to provide a number of programs and services, including home visit counseling and crisis

counseling.

The American Red Cross offers confidential counseling, guidance, information, referrals, and other

social services to all military personnel (active duty, National Guard, and Reserves) and their families.

Mobilization and Deployment Assistance

4-H Military Partnership is supported by the National 4-H Headquarters, Army Child and Youth

Services, Navy Child and Youth Programs, and Air Force Services Family Member Programs. 4-H

Military is dedicated to providing positive education and life skills training programs to military

children. The website includes curriculum materials such as downloadable publications on starting a 4-H

club, maintaining good health, and helping military children through deployments.

Operation Military Kids (OMK) is a collaborative effort between America’s communities, the Land

Grant University Extension system, and the United States Army to support military children and youth

impacted by deployment. The initiative, funded by the Army and the Office of the Secretary of Defense,

focuses on serving geographically dispersed children and youth, primarily those of National Guard and

Reserve members, who do not have access to installation-based support programs. OMK efforts include

Hero Packs, Mobile Technology Labs (MTL), Speak Out For Military Kids (SOMK), and Ready, Set,

Go Community Training. Additionally, OMK offers a number of camping opportunities including day

camps, weekend events, special focus camps (e.g., computer, conservation, leadership), school break

retreats, and residential experiences of varying lengths. Youth of active duty, National Guard, and

Reserve service members are eligible for OMK.

The American Red Cross Emergency Communications Services relays urgent messages 24 hours a day,

365 days a year, containing accurate, factual, complete, and verified descriptions of the emergency to

service members stationed anywhere in the world, including on ships at sea, at embassies, and in remote

locations. Red Cross emergency communications services can help keep service members in touch with

their families following the death or serious illness of an immediate family member, the birth of a child

or grandchild, or when a service member’s family faces other emergencies. 
- 76 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

ASYMCA Operation Hero helps children six to twelve years of age who are experiencing temporary

difficulties in school, both socially and academically. Often, these difficulties are caused by frequent

moves and family disruption due to deployments. The semester-long program provides after school

tutoring and mentoring assistance in a small group with certified teachers.

Coming Together Around Military Families (CTAMF) is a DoD-sponsored initiative in collaboration

with Zero to Three, a national nonprofit organization that informs, trains, and supports professionals,

policymakers, and parents in their efforts to improve the lives of infants and toddlers. CTAMF increases

awareness of the impact of trauma, grief, and loss on very young children through specialized training

and support for the professionals who are supporting military families and educational materials for

military families. CTAMF materials include flyers on a variety of topics (staying connected, selfcare, nurturing, stress, routines, homecoming, and relocation), posters, board books for children that

emphasize a parent’s constant love and the connection between parent and child, and articles with tips

for supporting military families with infants and toddlers. 

The DoD-sponsored Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) training provides research-based

tools, practical professional development trainings, and partnership support on behalf of military

children. MCEC training opportunities directly address the challenges faced by military children,

increase awareness of and response to these challenges in the military and supporting communities,

and initiate quality, sustainable programs to meet these challenges. MCEC programs serve active duty,

National Guard, and Reserve service members and their families.

Mission Youth Outreach is a Service-sponsored youth outreach initiative provided in collaboration

with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The program allows geographically dispersed military youth

to attend a local Boys and Girls Club at no cost to the family. Access to Boys and Girls Clubs allows

military youth to take advantage of nationally recognized programs such as character and education

programs, education and career programs, health and life skills programs, art programs, and sports,

fitness, and recreation programs.

Tutor.com is a 24-7 online tutoring and homework help program provided by the DoD. Eligible service

members and their families around the world can work with certified tutors on homework, essay writing,

and test prep. Students and tutors use chat, interactive whiteboards, and file-sharing in a secure online

classroom. Sessions can be replayed, emailed, and printed. In the ProofPoint Real-Time Writing

Center, students get help with reports, essays, and writing projects, including resume help for the

adult student. The SkillsCenter Resource Library offers worksheets, videos, and links to standardized

exams in all fifty states. The service is available for all active duty service members and their families,

for National Guard and Reserve personnel who are deployed to of Operation New Dawn (OND)/

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and their dependents, and for DoD civilians who are deployed to

OND/OEF and their dependents.
- 77 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Sesame Workshop and the DoD began their partnership in 2006 with the Talk, Listen, Connect

(TLC) initiative, a military outreach program that provided resources for military families with young

children experiencing the effects of deployment. The TLC multimedia kits include materials that help

families with young children cope with challenges related to deployment and are available for order

through Military OneSource or may be downloaded from the Sesame Workshop. In addition to the

TLC initiative, The Sesame Street Experience for Military Families is a partnership between Sesame

Workshop and the United Service Organizations (USO), which has provided a traveling tour of the

Sesame Street Muppets to more than forty installations worldwide. The Sesame Workshop Roomin-a-Box initiative provided materials to “Sesamize” rooms at more than twenty military installations,

making the rooms bright and comforting places for children. A new Sesame Workshop website, Family

Connections, provides an online space for families to communicate and connect. Sesame Workshop has

also partnered with the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) to create primetime specials that share the

stories of military families who have experienced the challenges of deployment.

Emergency Financial Assistance

The American Red Cross Financial Assistance works under partnership agreements with the Army

Emergency Relief (AER), Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), Air Force Aid Society

(AFAS), and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) to provide quality, reliable financial assistance to

eligible applicants for emergency travel, burial of a loved one, assistance to avoid privation, etc. Through

the Armed Forces Casualty Travel Assistance Program (CTAP), the American Red Cross can provide a

one-time grant available for up to two immediate family members who are not on invitation travel orders

(ITOs) or government-funded. The CTAP provides assistance for travel, lodging, and food expenses

to help make it possible for family members to travel to the bedside of a service member injured in a

combat zone in the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) area of responsibility (AOR)

who is hospitalized in the United States, and for family members traveling to the funeral or memorial

service for a service member killed in action in the USCENTCOM AOR. 

The ASYMCA Family Emergency Supplies Program provides assistance for families experiencing

financial distress, as does the Food for Families Program.

The USO is a private, nonprofit organization supporting service members and their families by

providing morale, welfare, and recreation-type services. USO centers offer housing and financial

information and support to military families during emergencies. 

Employment Assistance

Career OneStop Key to Career Success is a Department of Labor (DOL)-sponsored website offering

career resources and workforce information. The Key to Career Success Campaign provides military

spouses with job search, career planning, training, and family resources.
- 78 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Military Spouse Corporate Career Network (MSCCN) is a nonprofit agency that assists military

spouses in locating career opportunities. It is a free service that works in conjunction with military family

service centers to provide employment and career opportunities for military spouses.

Child Care Assistance

The National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) works with

more than 700 state and local child care resource and referral agencies nationwide to help ensure that

families in the United States have access to high-quality, affordable child care. Through several civilian/

military partnerships, NACCRRA and child care resource and referral agencies work to build the quality

and capacity of child care throughout the country for service members and their families:

NACCRRA Programs

Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood is a DoD program operated in partnership with

NACCRRA designed to help service members stationed in communities without military

installations (such as Recruiters, Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) instructors, Military

Entrance Processing (MEP) personnel, and service members on Independent Duty) find affordable,

high-quality child care in communities by providing reduced fees for the care of their children.

Operation Military Child Care (OMCC) provides child care fee assistance for deployed active duty

members (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force) and National Guard and Reserve service

members who are activated or deployed whose children are enrolled in non-DoD licensed child care

programs.

Army Child Care in Your Neighborhood pilot sites help Army families find high-quality child

care programs at a cost comparable to those on the installation through fee assistance. Pilot sites

include Fort Carson, Fort Stewart/Hunter Army Airfield, Fort Riley, Fort Campbell, Fort Bragg,

Fort Drum, Fort Bliss, Fort Sam Houston, Fort Lewis, and United States Southern Command

(USSOUTHCOM).

Army School-Age Program in Your Neighborhood (ASPYN) helps Army families to find ASPYNapproved providers in their community and fee assistance to help cover the cost of care.

Child Care Assistance for Severely Injured Military Members is a partnership between NACCRRA

and the Services to provide families of severely injured military members with assistance finding

and paying for safe, licensed child care services for a period of six months during the period of

recuperation. Extensions beyond the six month period will be considered based upon physician

reassessment. The program is available nationwide wherever the injured member is receiving either

in-patient or out-patient medical care.
- 79 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

NACCRRA Programs

Child Care Assistance for Severely Injured Military Members is a partnership between NACCRRA

and the Services to provide families of severely injured military members with assistance finding

and paying for safe, licensed child care services for a period of six months during the period of

recuperation. Extensions beyond the six month period will be considered based upon physician

reassessment. The program is available nationwide wherever the injured member is receiving either

in-patient or out-patient medical care.

Enhanced Child Care Referral Service helps military families when the service member is deployed,

the active duty service member lives away from a military installation, or the active duty service

member lives near a military installation where on-installation care is unavailable. It helps families

find child care options that meet their needs by providing them with a higher level of service and

linking them to their local participating Child Care Resource and Referral (available to Army,

Marine Corps, and Navy families).

NACCRRA EFMP Respite Care for Navy Families is specifically designed for Navy families with

EFM children, category IV or V. This includes EFMs whose medical condition requires assignment

near major medical facilities in the continental United States or whose needs are complex and

specialized requiring continuity of care.

The ASYMCA DoD Military Outreach Program offers respite child care services for children whose

parent or guardian needs temporary respite from his or her role as primary caregiver in the absence of

a deployed spouse. Respite child care is offered at select locations and may be provided for children up

to age twelve at participating Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) locations for up to sixteen

hours of respite child care per month, per child.

Pre-Deployment Health Care Benefits

Prior to a deployment, service members are required to complete a Pre-Deployment Health Assessment

(PDHA) to record and evaluate their current health and to ensure that they receive any needed care.

Family members of active duty service members are entitled to health care insurance through the

military’s program called TRICARE. Family members of National Guard and Reserve service members

who are mobilized or deployed for periods longer than thirty days also become eligible.

Before a deployment, service members should ensure their families 

are enrolled in TRICARE.

7
- 80 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

TRICARE offers several health plan options to meet the unique needs of the military. Availability for

each of the plans varies depending on military status and where service members and their families live.

Prior to a deployment, if service members were already enrolled in TRICARE, they may want to check

the enrollments of their families to ensure that they will be able to continue receiving care during the

course of the deployment. National Guard and Reserve service members preparing for a deployment

during which they will become eligible for TRICARE may want to ensure that their families are

enrolled in TRICARE so that they can receive care during the deployment. Service members can check

and update their beneficiary information for TRICARE programs through the TRICARE Beneficiary

Web Enrollment.

Pre-Deployment Health Assessment

Prior to a deployment, service members will be required to complete Department of Defense Form (DD

Form) 2795, “Pre-Deployment Health Assessment (PDHA).” The PDHA allows military personnel

to record information about their general health and share concerns they have prior to a deployment.

In conjunction with the Post Deployment Health Reassessment, the PDHA also helps health care

providers identify issues and provide the appropriate medical care before, during, and after deployment.

The PDHA is mandatory for all deploying personnel regardless of branch of Service, including National

Guard and Reserve service members. The PDHA must be completed within thirty days prior to the

date of deployment. In addition to the questionnaire, a health care provider conducts an interview with

service members and provides them with any needed referrals to ensure that they are medically fit for

deployment. 

Medical Insurance Coverage through TRICARE

Family members of active duty service members who receive their medical benefits through TRICARE

continue to receive their benefits throughout the course of a deployment. National Guard and Reserve

service members who are activated or mobilized in preparation for a deployment will become “active

duty service members” and will qualify to receive medical benefits through TRICARE for themselves

and their families.

TRICARE Regions and Areas

TRICARE is available worldwide and is managed in four separate regions: three in the United

States and one overseas that is divided into three main areas. The three regions in the United States

include TRICARE North, TRICARE South, and TRICARE West. The overseas region includes the

TRICARE Eurasia-Africa area, the TRICARE Latin America and Canada area, and the TRICARE

Pacific area. Each region is operated by a regional contractor that establishes the TRICARE provider

network in the region providing services to service members and their families.
- 81 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

TRICARE North Region

The TRICARE North Region includes Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois,

Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New

York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin,

and portions of Iowa (Rock Island Arsenal area), Missouri (St. Louis area), and Tennessee (Fort

Campbell area). For more information, service members and their families can contact North Region

TRICARE Customer Service at 1-877-874-2273 or visit the TRICARE North Region website.

TRICARE South Region

The TRICARE South Region includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi,

Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee (excluding the Fort Campbell area), and Texas (excluding the El

Paso area). For more information, contact South Region TRICARE Customer Service at 1-800-444-

5445 or visit the TRICARE South Region website.

TRICARE West Region

The TRICARE West Region includes Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa

(excluding Rock Island Arsenal area), Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri (except the St. Louis area),

Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas (the

southwestern corner, including El Paso), Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. For more information,

contact West Region TRICARE Customer Service at 1-800-558-1746 or visit the TRICARE West

Region website.

TRICARE Overseas Region, Eurasia-Africa Area

The TRICARE Eurasia-Africa area includes Europe and Africa, all Middle Eastern countries, Pakistan,

Russia, and several former Soviet Republics including the Baltic States, Ukraine, Georgia, Kazakhstan,

Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. TRICARE Eurasia-Africa is managed out of Sembach Air Base in Germany

and can be reached by phone toll-free at 1-888-777-8343, by commercial phone at 011-49-6302-67-

6314, by Defense Switch Network (DSN) at 496-6314, or by email at teoweb@europe.tricare.osd.mil.

TRICARE Overseas Region, Latin America and Canada Area

The TRICARE Latin America and Canada area includes Central and South America, the Caribbean

Basin, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. TRICARE Latin America and Canada is managed

out of Fort Gordon, Georgia, and can be reached by phone toll-free at 1-888-777-8343, by commercial

phone at 1-706-787-2424, by DSN at 773-2424, or by email at taolac@tma.osd.mil.

TRICARE Overseas Region, Pacific Area

The TRICARE Pacific area includes Guam, Asia, New Zealand, India, and Western Pacific remote

countries. TRICARE Pacific is managed out of Camp Lester in Japan and can be reached by phone

toll-free at 1-888-777-8343, by commercial phone at 011-81-6117-43-2036 (011-65-6-338-9277 for

remote sites), by DSN at 643-2036, or by email at TPAO.CSC@med.navy.mil.
- 82 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Eligibility Requirements for TRICARE Medical Benefits

TRICARE services and procedures differ based on the region in which the service member is stationed.

To receive medical benefits through TRICARE, service members and their families must be enrolled in

the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).

Service members are responsible for the enrollment of eligible

beneficiaries. If a service member failed to enroll his or her spouse

or children in the DEERS system, the spouse and children may

be denied use of support services, including medical facilities.

If a spouse gives birth while the service member is deployed, the

newborn child is automatically covered by TRICARE Prime for

120 days. During this initial coverage period, the child must be

enrolled through the installation ID Card Center or the child will

no longer be covered after the 120 day period. To be able to enroll

a newborn child in TRICARE after the 120 day period while the

service member is deployed, the spouse must have either a general

or special power of attorney.

National Guard and Reserve service members and their families

are eligible to receive benefits through TRICARE Reserve Select

when not activated. When these service members are ordered to

active duty for more than thirty consecutive days, their spouses and children become eligible to receive

their medical care through one of several TRICARE options. The options vary depending on where the

family lives while the service member is activated.

Pre-Activation Benefit for National Guard and Reserve

National Guard and Reserve service members who are issued delayed-effective-date active duty orders

for more than thirty days in support of a contingency operation may qualify for “early eligibility” for

TRICARE medical benefits. This period of eligibility begins on the date the orders were issued or 180

days before the service member is to report to active duty, which ever occurs later.

National Guard and Reserve service members and their families 

may be able to receive health care through TRICARE before the 

deployment starts.

7

National Guard and Reserve members who qualify for the pre-activation benefit are covered as “active

duty service members” and receive active duty medical benefits. Additionally, when National Guard or

Reserve service members qualify for pre-activation benefits, their family members who are registered in

DEERS are also covered under TRICARE during this pre-activation period. For National Guard and

Reserve service members who do not qualify for the pre-activation benefit, their coverage (and their
- 83 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

families’ coverage) begins on the first day of their active duty orders. Service members’ personnel offices

will tell them if they are eligible for pre-activation benefits when they receive their delayed-effective-date

active duty orders.

To be eligible for this early benefit, the service member and the family must be registered and

TRICARE eligible in DEERS. The service member’s personnel office is responsible for determining

eligibility for the early TRICARE benefit. The Services will notify and advise eligible National Guard

and Reserve service members of their TRICARE medical benefits when their delayed-effective-date

active duty orders are issued. For assistance with an eligibility problem, members should contact their

Service point of contact listed on the TRICARE website.

Family Member Health Care Options

When a service member is on active duty (including activated National Guard and Reserve service

members), family members have two options for receiving health care benefits: they can continue to

receive coverage through their civilian health insurance plan or receive care through any TRICAREauthorized provider.

If family members have other health insurance through their employers, they can elect to continue to

receive health care coverage for their families through that provider for the course of the deployment.

If family members received health care coverage from the employer of an activated National Guard or

Reserve service member, their eligibility for coverage through that provider may be ending with the

deployment. Under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA),

employers are not required to continue providing health care insurance coverage for the duration of the

deployment, but if a service member requests, employers are required to continue to carry the service

member and his or her family on the company health plan for up to thirty days of service at normal

cost to the service member. Service members can elect to continue their coverage through a civilian

employer’s health plan, but they may be required to pay up to 102 percent of the full premium for

coverage.

If families of activated National Guard and Reserve service members opt to receive their health care

through TRICARE, they will become eligible for various options depending on where they live while

the service member is activated. Family members who live stateside will become eligible for TRICARE

Prime, TRICARE Prime Remote, TRICARE Standard and Extra, or United States Family Health

Plan (USFHP). Family members of service members who are activated from an overseas area become

eligible for TRICARE Prime Overseas, TRICARE Global Remote Overseas, or TRICARE Standard

Overseas. Enrollment is required for all TRICARE plans except for TRICARE Standard and Extra and

TRICARE Standard Overseas.

TRICARE Prime

TRICARE Prime is a managed care option that provides service members and their families with
- 84 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

affordable and comprehensive coverage. Active duty service members are required to enroll in

TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Prime Remote. TRICARE Prime is available in areas near military

treatment facilities (MTF) and in locations where regional contractors have established TRICARE

Prime networks. TRICARE Prime provides the lowest out-of-pocket costs as compared to other

TRICARE plans and does not require beneficiaries to submit claims. With TRICARE Prime,

beneficiaries receive the majority of their health care through an assigned primary care manager who can

refer them to specialists as necessary.

Eligibility for TRICARE Prime is restricted to active duty service members and their families, retired

service members and their families, eligible former spouses, surviving dependents, National Guard

and Reserve service members and their families when activated for more than thirty consecutive days,

retired National Guard and Reserve service members and their families, and Medal of Honor recipients

and their families. If a beneficiary is entitled to Medicare based on their age, they are not eligible for

TRICARE Prime.

All eligible beneficiaries of TRICARE Prime must reside in a location around an MTF, known as

a prime service area. If service members reside outside a prime service area, they may be eligible for

TRICARE Prime Remote and their family may be able to enroll in TRICARE Standard and Extra.

TRICARE Prime Remote

TRICARE Prime Remote is a managed care option similar to TRICARE Prime for active duty service

members and their eligible family members when they live in areas outside of a prime service area,

designated as “remote areas.” Remote areas are those that are fifty miles or an hour drive time from the

nearest MTF, designated by ZIP code. Service members and their families can determine whether they

qualify by using the TRICARE Prime Remote ZIP Code Look-Up Tool.

As with TRICARE Prime, the majority of care is received through a primary care manager, but if a

TRICARE network primary care manager is not available in the area, care can be provided by any

TRICARE-authorized provider.

Active duty service members who reside and work outside of a prime service area are required to

participate in TRICARE Prime Remote. Family members can either enroll in TRICARE Prime

Remote or use TRICARE Standard and Extra.

TRICARE Standard and Extra

While active duty service members must enroll in TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Prime Remote,

family members of active duty service members and retirees, as well as survivors, have the choice of

enrolling in TRICARE Prime or enrolling in TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra. If Prime

or Extra is not selected, TRICARE Standard is the default enrollment. TRICARE Standard allows

family members more choices in their health care providers as they can seek care from any TRICARE-
- 85 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

authorized provider, but this comes at a higher out-of-pocket cost. Family members can reduce the outof-pocket cost by using the TRICARE Extra option, which requires them to seek care from TRICAREauthorized providers within the TRICARE network. The TRICARE Standard option is available

worldwide, but the TRICARE Extra option is not available overseas.

Through the TRICARE Reserve Family Demonstration Project, family members of National Guard

and Reserve service members who are activated for more than thirty days in support of a contingency

operation are eligible to receive additional benefits under TRICARE Standard and Extra. Family

members who do not or cannot enroll in TRICARE Prime receive waivers for certain costs and aspects

of the program.

United States Family Health Plan

The USFHP is an additional TRICARE Prime option available through networks of community-based,

nonprofit health care systems in six areas of the United States. Beneficiaries must be enrolled in DEERS

and live in one of the designated USFHP service areas to enroll. USFHP is the only TRICARE Prime

program that offers benefits to individuals age sixty-five and over, regardless of whether or not they have

Medicare Part B.

TRICARE Prime Overseas

TRICARE Prime Overseas is a managed care plan for active duty service members and their eligible

family members residing together in overseas locations in which TRICARE Prime Overseas is available.

As with TRICARE Prime, the majority of care is provided through a primary care manager who refers

beneficiaries to health care specialists as necessary.

Active duty service members residing in overseas areas where the plan is available are eligible. Family

members of active duty service members who accompany their sponsor overseas, are commandsponsored on their permanent change of station orders, or relocate on Service-sponsored/funded orders

are also eligible for TRICARE Prime Overseas where it is available. Retirees and retiree family members

are not eligible for TRICARE Prime Overseas.

TRICARE Global Remote Overseas

TRICARE Global Remote Overseas (TGRO) is a TRICARE Prime option offered in designated

remote overseas locations for active duty service members and their families. TRICARE has partnered

with International SOS to identify the best local providers and facilities and to develop a network of

licensed, qualified physicians in remote overseas areas.

TRICARE Standard Overseas

TRICARE Standard Overseas provides family members with greater flexibility in choosing their

health care provider in overseas locations than TRICARE Prime Overseas, but costs more in out-of-
- 86 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

pocket fees. Family members are allowed to choose any qualified host nation health care provider. The

TRICARE Extra option is not available in overseas locations.

Active duty family members living overseas with their sponsors, retirees and their family members

residing overseas, survivors living overseas, and some eligible former spouses who reside overseas are

eligible for TRICARE Standard Overseas. Family members of National Guard and Reserve service

members who are living overseas while their sponsor is on active duty for more than thirty consecutive

days are also eligible for TRICARE Standard Overseas.

Dental Insurance Coverage through TRICARE

As with medical coverage, family members of active duty service members who receive their dental

benefits through TRICARE continue to receive their benefits throughout the course of a deployment.

National Guard and Reserve service members are eligible to enroll their families in the TRICARE

Dental Program (TDP), even when not in active duty status.

TRICARE Dental Program

The TDP is a voluntary, premium-based dental insurance plan administered by United Concordia

Companies, Inc. For enrollees, the TDP covers a wide range of diagnostic, preventive, and restorative

services through a network of more than 64,000 participating dentists, or through a nonparticipating

dentist at an additional cost. The TDP is available to active duty family members, members of the

National Guard and Reserve, and family members of National Guard and Reserve service members. To

be eligible to enroll in the TDP, sponsors must have at least twelve months remaining on their service

commitment with the Service branch. When the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System

(DEERS) indicates less than twelve months remaining on a service commitment, United Concordia will

validate the intent of the sponsor to continue their service commitment prior to allowing them to enroll.

Active duty and activated National Guard and Reserve service members are not eligible to enroll

in the TDP, as they receive their dental care through their branch of Service either at a military

dental treatment facility (MDTF), through the Tri-Service Remote Dental Program, or through the

TRICARE Global Remote Overseas (TGRO) Call Center, depending on their location and their

TRICARE plan.

Eligibility Requirements for TRICARE Dental Benefits

Dental services are provided to active duty service members through the MDTF. When National Guard

and Reserve service members are called to active duty, they receive dental care through an MDTF,

through the TRICARE Active Duty Dental Program, or through the TGRO Call Center, depending on

where they live and work. Active duty service members pay no premiums for dental care and there is no

minimum enrollment. When deactivated, dental care as an active duty service member ends.
- 87 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Eligibility Requirements for TRICARE Dental Benefits

Beneficiary Eligibility Requirements

Spouses of active duty 

service members

• all spouses of active duty service members.

Unmarried children 

of active duty service 

members

• all unmarried children (including stepchildren, adopted children, and

wards) under the age of twenty-one*

• unmarried children under the age of twenty-three if they are enrolled

as a full-time student at an accredited college or university and are

more than 50 percent dependent on the service member for

financial support **

• children who have suffered a disabling illness or injury before their

twenty-first birthday (or before their twenty-third birthday

if enrolled as a full-time student) and who are identified as an

incapacitated dependent in DEERS

Inactive National Guard 

and Reserve service 

members

• any National Guard and Reserve service members not on

active duty***

National Guard and 

Reserve spouses

• National Guard and Reserve spouses (even if their sponsor does

not enroll)

Unmarried children of 

National Guard and 

Reserve service members

• all unmarried children (including stepchildren, adopted children,

and wards) under the age of twenty-one (even if their service

member parent is not enrolled)*

• unmarried children under the age of twenty-three if they are enrolled

as a full-time student at an accredited college or university and are

more than 50 percent dependent on the service member for

financial support**

• children who have suffered a disabling illness or injury before their

twenty-first birthday (or before their twenty-third birthday

if enrolled as a full-time student) and who are identified as an

incapacitated dependent in DEERS

* Unmarried children maintain their eligibility up to the end of the month in which they turn twenty-one.

** Children under the age of twenty-three who are enrolled as full-time students maintain their eligibility until the age of twenty-three or the end of the month in

which their education terminates, whichever is earlier.

*** National Guard and Reserve service members who are called or ordered to active duty for a period of more than thirty consecutive days are disenrolled from the

TDP and receive the same entitlements as active duty service members. Upon deactivation, National Guard and Reserve service members are automatically

reenrolled in the program.
- 88 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

Pre-Activation Benefit for National Guard and Reserve

National Guard and Reserve service members who are issued delayed-effective-date active duty orders

for more than thirty consecutive days in support of a contingency operation may qualify for early

eligibility for TRICARE. If service members do qualify for early eligibility, TRICARE benefits may

begin on the date the orders were issued or ninety days prior to the service member’s date to report to

active duty, whichever is later.

If eligible for pre-activation benefits, National Guard and Reserve service members will be covered as

“active duty service members” and receive their dental care at either a MDTF or receive remote dental

care through the Active Duty Dental Program starting on the date in which they become eligible.

National Guard and Reserve service members who were enrolled in the TDP at the time these preactivation benefits become effective will be disenrolled automatically and will obtain dental care through

the MDTF or the Active Duty Dental Program.

During the pre-activation period, family members of National Guard and Reserve service members

become eligible for the TDP at the lower active duty family member rate. Family members who were

already enrolled in the TDP will see a reduction in their monthly premiums as they will be considered

“active duty family members” during their sponsor’s period on active duty.

To be eligible for this early benefit, service members and their families must be registered and

TRICARE eligible in DEERS. The service member’s Personnel Office is responsible for determining

eligibility for the early TRICARE benefit. The Services will notify and advise eligible National Guard

and Reserve service members of their TRICARE dental benefits when their delayed-effective-date

active duty orders are issued. For assistance with an eligibility problem, members should contact their

Service point of contact listed on the TRICARE website.

TRICARE Dental Program Survivor Benefit

When a military sponsor dies while on active duty for

more than thirty consecutive days, surviving spouses

enrolled in the TDP will continue to receive TDP

benefits for three years from the month following the

service member’s death. Unmarried children of the

deceased service member may use the privileges until

they are twenty-one or twenty-three if enrolled in a

full-time course of study in a secondary school or in

a full-time course of study in an institution of higher

education. Under the program, the government pays

100 percent of the premiums, but family members are

still responsible for any applicable cost-shares. This

survivor benefit also applies to enrolled family members
- 89 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

of the Selected Reserve (National Guard and Reserve) and the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) (special

mobilization only), regardless of whether the service member was on active duty orders or enrolled in the

TDP at the time of his or her death.

Eligible surviving family members enrolled at the time of their sponsor’s death will be automatically

disenrolled from their current TDP coverage plan and re-enrolled in a TDP Survivor Benefit plan.

United Concordia will notify the surviving family members of this disenrollment and the terms of the

TDP Survivor Benefit.

Eligible surviving family members not enrolled at the time of their sponsor’s death are not automatically

enrolled in the TDP Survivor Benefit. Under the following circumstances, the requirement to be

enrolled in the TDP at the time of the service member’s death is not applicable:

• Children under the age of four – Surviving children under the age of four who were not voluntarily 

enrolled in the TDP prior to the service member’s death can be eligible for the TDP Survivor 

Benefit if other eligible family members were enrolled or the child was the only eligible dependent of

the service member.

• Surviving spouses who were active duty service members – Surviving spouses who were active

duty service members at the time of the military sponsor’s death and who subsequently separate or

are discharged from active duty following the death of their military sponsor are eligible.

• Family members not enrolled in TDP due to available care at MDTF – The TDP Survivor Benefit 

is also available to family members who were not enrolled in the TDP at the time of the service

member’s death, but were previously enrolled in the TDP, and disenrolled because either the service

member was transferred to a duty station within the continental United States (CONUS) where

space-available dental care was readily available in the MDTF or because the sponsor was transferred

to a location outside the continental United States (OCONUS).

In these cases, enrollment is not automatic. To elect enrollment for the TDP Survivor Benefit under any

of these circumstances, the surviving spouse, parent, or legal guardian must contact United Concordia.

Surviving family members are eligible for the TRICARE Retiree Dental Program (TRDP) once the

three-year TDP Survivor Benefit period ends. The TRDP also may be available to surviving family

members who do not qualify for the TDP Survivor Benefit.

Pharmacy Benefits through TRICARE

In addition to medical and dental insurance benefits through TRICARE, eligible beneficiaries can fill

their prescriptions through the military treatment facility (MTF) pharmacy, mail order pharmacy, a

TRICARE retail network pharmacy, or a non-network retail pharmacy.
- 90 -

Pre-Deployment Phase

TRICARE Pharmacy Program

The TRICARE Pharmacy Program provides a pharmacy benefit through TRICARE to all eligible

uniformed service members, retirees, and family members, including beneficiaries age sixty-five and

older. Prescription drug coverage under the program is the same regardless of the beneficiary category

or which health plan option a service member is using. The TRICARE Pharmacy Program is available

worldwide; however, there are some limitations to having prescriptions filled in some overseas areas.

TRICARE prescription drug coverage is available to all TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries who are

enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). Active duty service

members and their families are always eligible to receive benefits through the TRICARE Pharmacy

Program. National Guard and Reserve service members and their families are eligible for the TRICARE

Pharmacy Program only when activated on Title 10 or Title 32 orders. National Guard and Reserve

service members and their families are also eligible for the program when not activated if they are

enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select or the Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP). More

information on TRICARE Reserve Select and the CHCBP can be found in the Post Deployment Phase

of this guide.
M I L I T A R Y

Deployment Guide

Coping with Separation................................................................................................................. 92

Emergencies during a Deployment.............................................................................................. 105

Leave during a Deployment......................................................................................................... 110

Operations and Personal Security................................................................................................ 118

Deployment and the Media.......................................................................................................... 123

Communicating during a Deployment.......................................................................................... 125

Replacing Identification Cards during a Deployment................................................................... 142

Deployment Phase
- 92 -

Military Deployment Guide

Deployment Phase

This section of the guide is intended to help spouses and other family members of deployed active duty,

National Guard, and Reserve service members cope during their service member’s time away from home

and to serve as a resource during the deployment. The information in the Deployment Phase section is

presented in seven major sections: Coping with Separation, Emergencies during a Deployment, Leave

during a Deployment, Operations and Personal Security, Deployment and the Media, Communicating

during a Deployment, and Replacing Identification Cards during a Deployment.

Coping with Separation

When a service member deploys, the entire family, including those at home and the deployed service

member, is likely to experience stress and anxiety related to the separation. The following sections provide

recommendations to help service members, spouses, children, and parents cope during a deployment.

Coping with Separation for Service Members

During a deployment, service members must cope with being away from their family and all that is

comfortable and familiar. Although the momentum of daily responsibilities may keep deployed service

members focused for stretches of time, they may still experience stress and strong emotions related to

the separation. The following suggestions offer ways for service members to stay connected with their

families and remain engaged as a “long-distance” parent.

Stay in touch 

Staying connected with family back home can 

help service members cope with stress during 

the deployment.

7 Although duties consume much of service members’

time during a deployment, they should try to stay in

touch with their families as much as possible. Frequent

contact with children can help service members get

through difficult times and can make the transition back home easier on everyone.

Send individual letters, cards, and gifts to the children

Letters and cards remind children that their deployed parent is thinking about them. When sending

letters, cards, or gifts to the children, service members are encouraged to send something to each of the

children; each child needs his or her own separate, special, individual contact from the deployed parent.
- 93 -

Deployment Phase

Coping with Separation for Spouses

Even spouses that have experienced a 

deployment in the past may react differently to 

the next one and experience new challenges. 

7 No matter how prepared spouses are before the

deployment, no one can predict all of the issues that

may come up. Almost any event, even those that would

not normally give spouses pause, can make them feel

additional stress during the deployment. Although spouses may not be able to control what triggers this

stress, they should be aware of possible symptoms of anxiety. While some anxiety is expected during a

deployment, excessive or persistent worries can have a significant impact on day-to-day activities and

interactions with others. The following is a list of some of the symptoms of higher levels of anxiety.

Sypmtoms of anxiety

• apathy and/or emotional numbing

• crying for no apparent reason

• difficulty completing tasks

• difficulty making decisions

• difficulty sleeping

• excessive concern over managing the household and/or children alone

• excessive concern over the impact of deployment on the relationship with their spouse

• excessive concern over re-entry into the work environment

• excessive concern with being overwhelmed by multiple roles

• excessive concern over financial issues

• excessive drinking or drug use

• extreme hunger or lack of appetite

• fear and anxiety about the future

• feeling withdrawn

• feelings of powerlessness

• headaches or stomach problems

• irritability and anger

• sadness and depression

• trouble concentrating
- 94 -

Deployment Phase

Increased resiliency in spouses and family members can help them to better manage stress and feelings

of anxiety. Building resiliency does not mean that spouses will not experience stress or strong emotions

during the deployment; it does mean that they can learn behaviors, thoughts, and actions that help them

adapt to unexpected events and stressful situations in a healthier, more productive way. Family resilience

is enhanced by properly preparing spouses and children for the deployment, maintaining frequent

contact while service members are away, and ensuring that their families know where to go for help if

needed.

Building resiliency increases an individual’s ability to adapt well to 

unexpected changes and events.

7

When faced with increased stress, some spouses find that maintaining routines help them to feel

more in control. Other spouses find it difficult to manage their normal routines when they are feeling

overwhelmed. It can be helpful for spouses to remind themselves that everyone experiences stress

differently. Spouses should try not to compare their responses to those of other spouses and not to judge

how they manage their stress throughout the deployment. Any of the following recommendations may

be able to help spouses cope with the stress of separation more effectively:

Stay connected with the service member

Spouses are encouraged to stay in contact with their deployed service member. Nothing helps relieve

the stress of a separation like hearing from a loved one. Spouses can send letters, communicate by phone

when possible, send emails, and make the most of social networking sites and opportunities to remain

in contact with their service member. Spouses can set up a blog where they can document things going

on at home so the service member can keep up and feel involved. Spouses can also use video and photo

sharing sites to upload images or short movies of them and their children. When posting information

online, be sure sites are private and safe. Spouses should avoid posting information advertising to the

general public that they are living alone. They should also be careful not to provide any information

about the location of the service member.

Reach out to friends, family, neighbors, and other spouses

Friends, family, neighbors, and other spouses of deployed service members can help spouses when

they need practical or emotional support. Although friends and family may be the best resources for

emotional support and understanding, neighbors can be a great help during emergencies and can be

a helpful source of day-to-day support. Even a short chat with a neighbor over coffee can help relieve

stress and put things into greater perspective. Other military spouses have a unique understanding of the

stressors of a deployment and may be able to share some coping strategies that have worked for them.
- 95 -

Deployment Phase

Families can increase their resiliency by building their own 

support system by reaching out to others and getting involved in 

the community.

7

Get involved in community support programs

Spouses should take advantage of available military support programs and services such as unit family

readiness groups (FRGs), Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) programs, family readiness

training/programs, and deployment readiness programs/services. In addition to the military programs

and services, spouses may want to become more involved in their civilian community (through

volunteering) or church. Communities and churches can provide both emotional and social outlets and

can add another layer to a social support system.

Maintain a daily routine

Spouses should attempt, as much as possible, to

maintain the current daily routines of work, errands,

household chores, and hobbies. This consistency can

make things feel more stable and less stressful and

chaotic. Maintaining a routine can be comforting to

children as well.

Take care of themselves

Spouses should make time to eat properly, exercise

regularly, get plenty of rest, and schedule time for things

they enjoy, such as hobbies or social events. Having a

healthy diet of nutritious foods can help make spouses feel physically better. Walking daily, jogging, or

joining an exercise class can be a great way to relieve stress. Although there may be a long list of things

that need to be done, spouses should not sacrifice their sleep; they will be better equipped to handle

things after a good night’s rest. By engaging in activities that spouses find relaxing, spouses can feel

balanced and be better able to deal with stressful times.

Limit exposure to the news media

Although it is natural to want to stay informed, too much exposure to the images and stories circulated

through the media can be overwhelming. Spouses should limit the amount of news to no more than one

hour a day and try not to watch the news right before bed. 

Set goals

By setting goals for them and their children, spouses can help to pass the time during a separation

and can give themselves something to look forward to. Spouses can set goals for things to be done

tomorrow, next week, or even next month such as tackling projects around the house, setting exercise

goals, or challenging children to read a certain number of books within a month. Spouses should reward
- 96 -

Deployment Phase

themselves and their children in small ways; each time a goal is achieved, they will gain a sense of

satisfaction for completing the goal and they will be a little closer to seeing the service member again.

Avoid drugs and alcohol

Abusing substances, such as drugs, alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine, can reduce the perception of stress,

but they do not do anything to address the underlying causes of stress. Once the effects of those

substances wear off, concerns and worries resurface. The negative impacts of substance abuse can add to

the stressors a spouse is experiencing.

Nurture a positive self-image 

It is likely that the deployment is not the first difficult time the family has had to rise to a challenge.

Whether it was the loss of a loved one, a major illness, or another life challenge, families have faced and

overcome hardship in the past. Service members and their families should remind each other of their

ability to persevere and draw on that strength to carry them through the deployment.

Keep things in perspective

When facing painful events, it can sometimes be helpful to think of things in a broader context. It might

help spouses to try to focus on the eventual homecoming and on being proud of their ability to manage

things in the service member’s absence.

Maintain a hopeful outlook

As much as possible, spouses should try to stay positive and focus on all of the good things that they

share with their service members: a loving relationship, a comfortable home, dear friends, and the love

and support of extended family. Focusing on these positive things can help families get through even the

most difficult of times.

Seek help if needed 

Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. If spouses are experiencing strong emotional reactions to the

separation that do not seem to be going away, are troubled for more than four to six weeks, or find that

feelings and stress are getting in the way of doing the things they need to do (like taking care of the

children or going to work), they may want to seek professional support. Nearly every military installation

has a family service center or family support center where service members and their families can access

information and referral, counseling, and crisis intervention services. Chaplains on the installation can

also provide counseling services. All military families, including family members of National Guard

and Reserve service members who are activated for more than thirty days, are eligible for medical and

behavioral health care either at a military treatment facility (MTF) or at a civilian facility through

TRICARE. The web-based TRICARE Assistance Program (TRIAP) provides online access to

counseling for short-term, non-medical issues. Through TRICARE Mental Health and Behavior,

TRICARE beneficiaries can receive a maximum of two sessions per week of outpatient behavioral health

care services.
- 97 -

Deployment Phase

Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; a variety of support 

resources are available for family members.

7

In addition to counseling services provided at installation family centers, spouses and children can

receive free, non-medical counseling sessions from Military OneSource and/or Military and Family Life

Counselors (MFLCs). Military OneSource consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days

a week by phone, online, or via email offering personalized support to any service member or family

member. Military OneSource can connect individuals with a trained, state-licensed behavioral health

professional for free confidential/private counseling. MFLCs are masters-level trained counselors that

provide anonymous, confidential, non-medical, short-term counseling sessions for every day issues such

as anger management, stress, parenting, communication, family relationships, deployment, and other

military-related topics. The counseling sessions through the MFLCs are anonymous and confidential,

with no records kept. Counseling received through MOS consultants or MFLCs is not designed to

address long-term counseling needs; people in need of long-term treatment are referred to a military

medical treatment facility and/or TRICARE for services.

Coping with Separation for Children

Even if children have experienced a deployment 

before, their reactions to this deployment may 

be different.

7 Children’s reactions to a separation can vary depending

on the child, his or her age, and previous experiences

with separation. There is a wide-range of completely

normal reactions children may have. Understanding

these reactions and what might be outside the realm of normal reactions can help spouses or caregivers

recognize any deeper issues that may require additional support or professional help.

Generally, children may exhibit sadness, home disciplinary problems, poor school performance, and

symptoms of depression. Children of all ages often test the parent or caregiver at home to find out if he

or she will be more lenient when the service member is gone, particularly at the time of departure and

again upon return of the service member. During the first month of separation, children may experience

a sense of loss for the deployed parent, may be disorganized in their usual activities, and may show

signs of worry. Emotional problems that existed for children prior to the deployment may become more

pronounced during the separation. 
- 98 -

Deployment Phase

Reactions children may have to the deployment

Toddlers may

• worry about basic needs

• have temper tantrums

• exhibit sullenness

• have difficulty sleeping

Preschoolers may

• regress (e.g., start having trouble with potty training again)

• worry about basic needs

• become clingy

• be afraid to sleep alone

• act out and test limits more than usual

• be afraid that the service member will get hurt

School-age children may

• worry about the safety of the deployed parent

• complain often and loudly

• become aggressive

• place significance on missed family events (e.g., birthdays, church, sports, or play)

• act out and test limits more than usual

• miss the deployed parent most during routines or activities they normally did or enjoyed together

(e.g., dinner, bedtime, school plays, recitals, sports events, etc.)

• have trouble sleeping

• have less energy than usual

• be irritable and overreact to seemingly minor things
- 99 -

Deployment Phase

Reactions children may have to the deployment

Adolescents may

• worry about the safety of the deployed parent

• act out and test limits more than usual

• exhibit lower self-esteem

• exhibit misdirected anger

• have problems in school

• lose interest in hobbies and activities

• cry more often to release pain and anxiety

• refuse to have contact with the deployed parent

• have physical symptoms (e.g., loss of appetite, stomach aches, insomnia, headaches, nightmares,

restlessness, nausea, etc.)

When trying to figure out how best to help children cope with the separation during a deployment,

spouses and caregivers should understand that each child may react differently and deal with the

deployment in varying ways. The following tips can make coping during the separation easier for all

children.

Talk with children about feelings and encourage them to talk about how they feel

Regardless of whether children seem to be having difficulty with the separation, having the spouse or

caregiver maintain an ongoing and open conversation about how they are all feeling and their fears,

concerns, and expectations can help children to talk about their feelings. Spouses or caregivers should let

children know that they are there to share and to listen and should answer children’s questions honestly

and with patience, even if children have asked the same question more than once. Asking questions over

and over is one way children come to terms with new situations. Spouses or caregivers may want to help

their children express feelings through a special notebook or journal. Children can write down their

thoughts, make up stories, or draw pictures to express how they are feeling.

Try to understand things from the children’s point of view

Children are often confused, angry, worried, or feeling insecure during a deployment. If a child seems

afraid, spouses or caregivers should ask what is making him or her scared. If a child is afraid for the

service member’s safety, spouses or caregivers can talk about all of the training service members undergo

to help them stay safe. If a child is afraid for his or her own safety, spouses or caregivers can offer

comfort and remind the child of all of the other adults who are there to help keep him or her safe, such

as police, firefighters, teachers, relatives, and friends. School-age children may need help processing what

(continued)
- 100 -

Deployment Phase

they hear on the news or from other kids. They may see and hear some pretty frightening things about

the area where the service member is deployed. For teenage children, spouses or caregivers should try to

approach discussions from their perspective. Spouses or caregivers can share control of the conversation

by letting the teenager discuss the topics that are the most important to them.

Keep children in contact with the service member

Whether or not children seem to be having difficulty with the separation, spouses or caregivers should

help their children stay in contact with the deployed parent. Spouses or caregivers can encourage their

children to send letters, emails, cards, drawings, photographs, report cards, copies of school work, videos,

or audio recordings.

Helping children to stay connected with their deployed parent 

can help maintain the parent-child bond and can help make the 

transition home easier for everyone.

7

Help children to think of the service member everyday

Spouses or caregivers can think of creative ways to help children think about their deployed parent, such

as having children take on some of the deployed parent’s normal chores. If children are old enough,

spouses or caregivers can let them choose which chores they will take over. This helps children feel like

they are contributing to the family while easing some of the burden on the spouse or caregiver. Spouses

or caregivers can also remind children of the deployed parent by playing the service member’s favorite

music, making the service member’s favorite meals, and looking at photos of the family all together.

Spouses or caregivers can also set one clock in the house to “Daddy Time” or “Mommy Time” and have

the children imagine what their parent is doing at that time each day.

Keep children involved in activities

Spouses or caregivers should try to keep children involved in community or social activities such as clubs

or sports teams. The social networks available through these activities and the physical activity they can

provide offer another outlet for coping with the separation.

Be aware of available support systems

Many support systems exist to help both spouses or caregivers and children address difficulties during

the separation. On military installations, deployment readiness programs, military ombudsman networks,

family readiness groups (FRGs), family readiness officers (FROs), chaplains, as well as children and

youth programs can offer support from people who understand the challenges families face during a

deployment. Through these programs and activities, spouses or caregivers and children can also connect

with other families going through a deployment and find ways to help each other. In the local area,

community youth programs, such as 4-H clubs, the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), and

houses of worship can provide additional resources for children and ways to meet other young people.

Children of National Guard and Reserve service members may feel particularly isolated if none of their
- 101 -

Deployment Phase

friends are from military families. Helping children to connect with other kids who have had similar

experiences can help them to cope and feel less alone.

Keep adults in children’s lives involved

Spouses or caregivers should make sure that children’s teachers, coaches, school administrators, and

religious leaders are aware of the service member’s deployment. Spouses or caregivers may want

to contact their children’s teachers regularly to ensure that the children are keeping up with their

assignments. By being aware of what the children are going through, these adults can be on the lookout

for behavior changes and provide the extra support children need to get through this time.

Give children a way to mark the passing time

Spouses or caregivers can use a variety of techniques to help children measure the passage of time until

the service member returns. They may want to institute a ceremonial crossing-off of each day on a

calendar as it passes. Spouses or caregivers can make a paper chain and have each link represent a week

of the deployment. As each week goes by, they can tear a link off of the chain. These concrete methods

of measuring time provide children, especially younger ones, with an easy way to track when their parent

will return.

Keep discipline consistent

Children often find it easier to cope with the changes in their lives during a separation if spouses or

caregivers are able to keep other things consistent. Although some decisions are harder to make alone,

children need the stability of the same rules associated with discipline. Children may test the spouse

or caregiver to see if he or she will bend the rules while the service member is away. Although spouses

or caregivers may be tempted to give in, what children need now is not permissiveness, but a sense of

stability and continuity. Spouses or caregivers should let their children know that the family rules stay

the same even while mom or dad is away. Spouses or caregivers should not use the deployed service

member as a threat to the children by saying things like, “Just wait until your father/mother gets home.”

This could introduce feelings of anxiety in children about the service member’s return home.

Maintaining consistency and routines as much as possible can help 

children cope during a deployment.

7

Keep children’s routines consistent

As much as possible, spouses or caregivers should try to keep children’s routines consistent. Mealtimes

and bedtimes can be particularly important for children. Children find comfort in knowing that some

things will not change, whether that means making time for bedtime stories, a song in the morning, or

family rituals and traditions such as a movie night.
- 102 -

Deployment Phase

Plan new activities

Spouses or caregivers should not confuse consistency with rigidity. Some changes, like taking more time

to talk, hug, cuddle, and reassure, may be necessary and useful. Spouses or caregivers can also start a new

family routine or activity, like a weekly hike, monthly trip, or daily reading time. Spouses or caregivers

may want to plan these activities and outings on days when the service member would usually be home,

such as weekends or holidays. Even a simple picnic or art project can give children something to look

forward to and keep their minds off a parent’s absence.

Watch behaviors and seek help if children need it

Spouses or caregivers should watch their children’s behaviors and be aware of changes that may get in the

way of their children’s usual routine and activities. If spouses or caregivers notice any significant changes,

they should not hesitate to reach out for support. If children are struggling, spouses or caregivers should

contact their children’s school counselor, Military OneSource, a chaplain, or the military family support

center for assistance. For older children, spouses or caregivers can keep a list of resources available to

teenagers in an easy to find location in the house. They may want to include hotline numbers, contact

information for behavioral health professionals, and contact information for educational professionals

such as guidance counselors. Teenagers are more likely to use such resources if they are easy to find in

times of need.

Coping with Separation for Parents of Deployed Service Members

Parents of deployed service members are likely to experience mixed emotions throughout the

deployment. While proud of their child’s accomplishments, they are likely to be concerned for their

child’s safety.

Parents may come to the spouse for help coping during the service member’s deployment. Spouses of

service members may have access to support systems and information that in-laws are not privy to (e.g.,

some military support programs, information from the Rear Detachment (RD), unit ombudsman, FRG,

FRO, etc.). The following tips can help parents to better manage throughout the deployment of their

son or daughter.

Encourage parents to write to the service member

Spouses of married service members should be sure that parents have the current address for the service

member and encourage them to send letters and care packages and to communicate regularly with their

son or daughter. Parents should be reminded that it may take a while for their letters to arrive. Parents of

single service members can contact the RD for the service member’s address.

Provide parents with unit contact information

Parents should have contact information for the RD, unit ombudsman, and FRG or FRO. Parents can

find out whether command and unit newsletters, phone trees, volunteer family support groups, and/or

command and unit websites are available to them.
- 103 -

Deployment Phase

Encourage parents to find support groups

Finding other parents in similar situations can help parents to cope with their child’s deployment.

Talking to other parents in the same situation can be comforting and will allow them to share

information and experiences. Blue Star Mothers of America is a nonprofit service organization of

mothers who have, or have had, children honorably serving in the military. It provides support for other

mothers of service members in times of need. Parents can find out if there is a chapter of Blue Star

Mothers of America located in a community near them.

Community support groups can help parents of deployed service 

members cope during the deployment.

7

Coping with a Deployment Extension

A deployment extension is difficult for both the service member and the family. Reunion plans must

suddenly be put on hold. At the moment the family receives word of the extension, they may experience

sadness, disappointment, worry, anxiety, anger, or a sense of betrayal. While this is certainly a trying

time, there are things families can do to cope and get through this time with a positive attitude.

Allow time to regroup emotionally

Family members should admit to themselves that they are upset; these feelings are genuine and they

reflect family members’ disappointment and pain. They may have lost any sense of control they had

before the announcement of the extension. During this time, family members should try to avoid taking

their frustrations out on friends, relatives, or children and try to set aside some time to regroup before

starting to revise the reunion plans.

Support the service member

The best way to support a service member during a deployment extension is for the family to stay

strong through the coming months. The family should remember that the extension was not the service

member’s decision and he or she is probably not happy about it either. Spouses or other family members

should try not to take out their frustrations on their service members. If spouses or other family

members stopped writing recently in anticipation of the imminent reunion, they should start sending

letters to their service members again. Maintaining regular and frequent contact can become even more

important to the service member during the extension.

The best way to support a service member during a deployment 

extension is for the family to stay strong through the coming months.

7
- 104 -

Deployment Phase

Talk to children about the extension

Spouses or caregivers should talk honestly and openly with children about the extension and their

feelings about it. Spouses or caregivers can keep children informed about the change, giving them

updates as they become available and allowing them to discuss their feelings, questions, and concerns.

Inform adults in children’s lives

When a deployment is extended, spouses or caregivers should make their children’s teachers, coaches,

school administrators, and religious leaders aware of the extension. They can continue to provide the

children with additional support and will be more likely to understand the cause behind any changes in

behavior or performance.

Focus on the future

Although the deployment extension changed the reunion plans, dwelling on the previous plans will not

help anyone to cope. Families can reschedule plans if possible, or make new plans together. Doing so will

give the service member and family members something positive to focus on.

Notify the service member’s employer

If the service member is a member of the National Guard or Reserve, his or her employer may be

expecting him or her to return to work soon. Spouses or other family members should remind service

members to notify their employers of the deployment extension.

Notify creditors

Credit card companies, banks, and other financial institutions are often required to reduce interest rates

during a deployment and a deployment extension under provisions of the Servicemembers Civil Relief

Act (SCRA). If families are receiving a reduction in the interest rate on credit cards or loans during the

service member’s deployment, spouses or other family members should notify these companies that the

service member’s deployment has been extended so that the interest rate remains reduced.

Remember that emergency help is available

Emergency help and relief are available through relief organizations for each branch of the military.

These organizations provide support for service members and their families who need emergency

assistance through low-interest loans, grants, and donations, as well as help with transportation, child

care, food, rent, utilities, and unforeseen family emergencies. These organizations are:

Emergency Relief Organizations

Army Emergency

Relief (AER)

Navy-Marine Corps Relief

Society (NMCRS)

Air Force Aid

Society (AFAS)

Coast Guard Mutual

Assistance (CGMA)
- 105 -

Deployment Phase

Remember that others share their experiences

If the service member’s deployment has been extended, there are other families in the unit experiencing

the same concerns and feelings. They can be a great source of emotional support. Reaching out to other

unit families can make spouses and other family members feel less alone and can make the extension

seem less daunting.

Seek help if needed

Even if spouses and other family members have not had any problems coping with the deployment

up to now, a deployment extension may test the limits of their endurance. If they feel that they need

help coping, they should not hesitate to contact the family support center or chaplains on the nearest

installation. Spouses and children can also be connected with a trained counselor through Military

OneSource. Military OneSource can also be contacted by phone stateside at 1-800-342-9647. The

website lists specific dialing information for other countries.

Emergencies during a Deployment

Emergencies can and will arise during a deployment. Some emergencies are small (like finding lastminute child care for a day) while others can be quite significant, potentially resulting in even more stress

for spouses and their families. By knowing where to get help for financial emergencies and knowing how

to contact the deployed service member during medical emergencies, spouses can be better prepared to

address situations quickly and effectively during a deployment.

For an immediate emergency, that requires urgent medical attention 

or assistance from the police, please call 911.

7

Financial Emergencies

Financial emergencies can compound the stress of deployments

for both the service member and the spouse. For spouses

remaining at home, a financial emergency can seem particularly

daunting when they have to face it alone. For deployed service

members, a financial emergency at home adds to already

existing concerns about the welfare of the family and can

distract them from the mission at hand. During times such as

these, it is important for families to remember that emergency

financial assistance is available from each of the Service’s relief

organizations and the American Red Cross.
- 106 -

Deployment Phase

Military Relief Organizations

Each Service has a relief organization that provides service members and their families with financial

assistance in times of need. These organizations are nonprofit charities with local offices providing

financial, educational, and other services for active duty service members, retired military personnel,

National Guard and Reserve service members on active duty for more than thirty continuous days, and

their family members.

Military Relief Organizations

Typically, these organizations provide emergency financial assistance to meet the following needs:

• food, rent, and utilities

• emergency transportation and vehicle repair

• funeral expenses

• medical/dental expenses

• personal needs when pay is delayed or stolen

• undergraduate-level education for children of service members through scholarships based

primarily on financial need

The relief organizations do not provide financial assistance to do the following:

• pay bills for nonessentials

• finance ordinary leave, liberty, or vacation

• pay fines or legal expenses

• pay taxes

• liquidate or consolidate debt

• purchase a home or make home improvements

• purchase, rent, or lease a vehicle

• cover bad checks or pay credit card bills

• help service members and their families live beyond their means

The financial assistance provided through these organizations is usually provided through interestfree loans. If it is determined that repayment would cause a hardship on the family, the assistance can

be provided through a grant that does not need to be repaid, or through a combination of grants and

interest-free loans.
- 107 -

Deployment Phase

Service Relief Organizations

Army Emergency

Relief (AER)

Navy-Marine Corps Relief

Society (NMCRS)

Air Force Aid

Society (AFAS)

Coast Guard Mutual

Assistance (CGMA)

Authorization for emergency financial assistance

Any emergency financial assistance provided by the relief organizations is provided on behalf of the service

member. Therefore, only the service member and those authorized to enter into financial obligations on

the service member’s behalf may request emergency financial assistance from a relief organization. A family

member can prove that they have the authority to request assistance on a service member’s behalf if they

have been given permission through a pre-authorization form or if they possess a power of attorney.

Even with the service member away on deployment, family 

members may be able to request financial assistance through 

military relief organizations.

7

The pre-authorization form is a document signed by the service member that gives permission to request

and to receive financial assistance from the relief society while the service member is deployed without

having to contact the service member for permission. If a family member is not pre-authorized to receive

assistance, the service member’s permission will be required for the relief organization to be able to

provide assistance. Obtaining a deployed service member’s permission while he or she is deployed can be

a long process.

If the service member did not complete a pre-authorization form with the relief society prior to

deployment, the family member can still be eligible for financial assistance if the service member

provided a valid power of attorney prior to deployment. Powers of attorney are usually classified as either

a general power of attorney or specific power of attorney. A general power of attorney gives the power

to perform almost any legal act on behalf of the service member for a specified period of time, including

entering into a financial obligation on the service member’s behalf. If the service member provided the

family member with a general power of attorney prior to his or her deployment, the relief organizations

will accept this as pre-authorization for financial assistance.

If the family member has a specific power of attorney, he or she may still be able to qualify for financial

assistance through the relief organization. A specific power of attorney, or limited power of attorney,

allows the service member to give only specific powers to his or her family member for a specified

period of time. If the specific power of attorney is valid and the authority includes the power to borrow

money in the service member’s name, then that individual is qualified to request and to receive financial

assistance through the relief organization.

If the family member does not have pre-authorization of a power of attorney, the service member’s

permission will have to be requested through a Red Cross message.
- 108 -

Deployment Phase

Requesting emergency financial assistance

To request emergency financial assistance, the family member will need to complete an application. He

or she will be required to provide identifying information for the service members and detail the nature

of their need. More information on completing the application form can be found by contacting the

local relief organization office. The Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard relief organizations provide the

forms for download on their websites. For Navy and Marine Corps service members, contact the nearest

NMCRS office for information on applying for financial assistance.

Financial Assistance Application Forms

Department of the Army (DA)

Form 1103 – Application for AER

Financial Assistance

AFAS Form 2 –

Application for AFAS

Financial Assistance

CGMA Form 5 – CGMA

Application for Assistance

The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross is the nation’s premier emergency response organization. It works under

partnership agreements with AER, NMCRS, AFAS, and CGMA to provide quality, reliable financial

assistance to eligible applicants 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The American Red Cross

offers financial assistance to service members and their families to address a variety of emergency needs

such as emergency travel, burial of a loved one, and assistance to avoid privation.

Typically, emergency financial assistance for service members and their families is provided through the

individual Service relief organizations. In cases in which the Service relief organizations are not available

(either because it is after hours or because the family is not located near an installation), the American

Red Cross provides emergency financial assistance. As with the Service relief organizations, emergency

financial assistance through the American Red Cross is provided only when there is a demonstrated

need for funds for things such as emergency travel, automobile repair, or urgent health and welfare needs

(e.g., food and shelter).

Requesting emergency financial assistance

To request financial assistance, family members should contact their local chapter of the American

Red Cross. The location of the nearest chapter can be found through the American Red Cross chapter

directory.

Active-duty service members and their immediate family members who are stationed in the United

States may call the American Red Cross AFES centers for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days

a year toll-free at 1-877-272-7337. Immediate family members of deployed National Guard and Reserve

service members should also contact the AFES centers through this method.
- 109 -

Deployment Phase

Medical Emergencies

As with financial emergencies, medical 

emergencies can add layers of stress for families.

7 Medical emergencies can happen at any time during a

service member’s deployment. Family members may

want to make their service members aware of the

emergency and, in some cases, let the service member know that he or she may need to return home

from the deployment as a result of the emergency. Through the American Red Cross, family members

can notify their service members of the medical emergency and possibly have their service members

return home for a period of time. It is important to understand what the military considers to be a

medical emergency and how to use the American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services (AFES)

to contact deployed service members.

Definition of Medical Emergency

If family members believe that the medical emergency they are experiencing warrants the service

member’s return, they will need to contact the American Red Cross. The American Red Cross will

provide official verification of the emergency situation and transmit the message to the service member’s

command. The service member’s commanding officer will then grant or deny emergency leave.

Before contacting the American Red Cross, family members should be aware of what the military

considers a “medical emergency.” The military defines an emergency as the death, critical illness, or critical

injury of an immediate family member. For the purposes of this definition, immediate family members

are spouses, parents, children, grandparents, and guardians who raised the service member (in-locoparentis). A broken limb or the birth of a child is not considered a medical emergency under this definition.

American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services

When sending an emergency message through the American Red Cross AFES, family members will

need to be able to provide them with some important information:

• the name, rank, social security number, and duty station of the service member

• information about the deployed unit and location of the Rear Detachment (RD)

• the caller’s relationship to the service member

• a description of the medical emergency

• the name of the doctor, hospital, or funeral home associated with the situation

For illnesses of immediate family members, family members will also need to state whether or not the

person who is ill wants the service member notified. For a death in the immediate family, family members

will need to provide the name of the deceased, the service member’s relationship to the deceased, when

and how death occurred, and whether the service member’s presence is required or requested.
- 110 -

Deployment Phase

7 Most commands prefer that families use the American Red Cross AFES.

Family members should not send emergency information through email or a letter. By sending

emergency messages through the American Red Cross AFES, the command knows that the

information has been verified and can make informed decisions about whether to grant emergency leave.

Additionally, by using the American Red Cross AFES, the emergency message will be transmitted

through the command chaplains, commanding officers, executive officers, or senior enlisted leaders. By

making these important individuals aware of the situation, they can guarantee that proper support is

available in theater for the service member if needed.

Accessing the American Red Cross AFES

Family members can access the American Red Cross AFES through multiple methods. The best

method for contacting the American Red Cross depends on physical location:

• Active duty service members and their immediate family members who are stationed in the United

States may call the American Red Cross AFES centers for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365

days a year toll-free at 1-877-272-7337. Immediate family members of deployed National Guard

and Reserve service members should also contact the AFES centers through this method.

• Other family members who do not live in the service member’s household, members of the National

Guard and Reserve not on active duty, retirees, and civilians may access American Red Cross services

through their local American Red Cross Chapter, listed in local telephone directories and in the

chapter directory. 

• Personnel stationed overseas on military installations should call installation operators or the on

installation American Red Cross office.

For service members located at overseas deployed locations, the American Red Cross can be contacted

through the American Red Cross deployed staff member.

Leave during a Deployment

While on a deployment, service members may be granted leave to address emergency issues or for rest

and recuperation (R&R). Each of these leave types are chargeable to the service member’s accrued leave

and require approval from the service member’s commander. By understanding emergency leave, service

members and their families can help to get their emergency leave approved so that service members can

return home as soon as possible. By knowing more about R&R leave, service members and their families

can help make that time as relaxing and enjoyable as possible.
- 111 -

Deployment Phase

Emergency Leave

Emergency leave is granted for personal or family emergencies. It must be approved by the unit

commander. This type of leave is normally granted to service members for family emergencies

involving members of their household, their immediate family, or a sole surviving relative whenever the

circumstances warrant and the military situation permits.

Although swift and sensitive action on emergency leave requests is essential, the military must confirm

that an emergency does exist and that the service member’s presence can resolve or alleviate the situation.

Emergency leave may be appropriate when

• a member of the household or immediate family has died

• the service member’s presence would contribute to the welfare of a dying member of the household

or the immediate family

• serious illness of a member of the household or the immediate family imposes a demand on the

service member that must be met immediately and cannot be accomplished from the duty station or

by any other means

• the service member’s failure to return home places a severe or unusual hardship on the spouse, his or

her household, or the immediate family

Service members will not be granted emergency leave for reasons such as the normal pregnancy of a

spouse, delivery of a baby, or resolution of marital or financial problems.

Although verification of the emergency by the American Red Cross or 

the host country’s equivalent agency is not usually necessary, it does 

help the unit commander confirm that the request for leave is valid.

7

If emergency leave is verified and granted, commanders typically authorize up to thirty days of leave for the

service member (emergency leave is chargeable leave). If the service member needs an extension while on

emergency leave, he or she must contact the unit commander for approval. If granted emergency leave,

service members may also be able to receive emergency leave travel in government-owned or controlled

aircraft. If a service member has been granted emergency leave from his or her unit commander, he or

she may want to check the availability of funding for travel or space-available military flights.

Rest and Recuperation Leave

The Rest and Recuperation (R&R) leave program provides service members, who are deployed to

certain locations, an opportunity to have a few days away from a hostile fire and imminent danger area.

By knowing more about the program, who to contact for assistance regarding the program, what to

expect during leave, and tips for couples while on R&R leave, service members and their families can

make the most of their short time away from the deployed theater.
- 112 -

Deployment Phase

Overview of the Program

United States Central Command R&R leave program

The United States Central Command

(USCENTCOM) R&R leave program provides a

period of leave to active duty, National Guard, and

Reserve service members, and Department of Defense

(DoD) civilian employees who are deployed to eligible

countries. To be eligible for the program, service

members must be assigned to one of fifteen designated

contingency countries within the USCENTCOM

area of responsibility (AOR) for at least 270 days

boots on ground (BOG). Designated countries are

Afghanistan, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan,

Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tajikistan,

Uzbekistan, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

National Guard or Reserve service members must serve at least 270 days of continuous duty within the

combat theater. For service members assigned for the requisite 270 days BOG, the R&R leave program

provides fifteen days of leave; for service members assigned to fifteen-month tours, the R&R leave

program provides eighteen days of leave.

Effective March 23, 2010, the land areas of Iraq and Afghanistan have been designated as eligible for

non-chargeable R&R (NCR&R). Service members deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan, who meet the

eligibility requirements noted above, may receive an administrative absence of up to fifteen days to be

used in conjunction with the travel benefits provided under the standard chargeable R&R leave program.

The benefits under the NCR&R program are not retroactive nor are service members otherwise

compensated with leave if unable to take NCR&R from theater.

The final decision regarding eligibility for the program rests with the commander in theater and is

based on mission constraints and how close the unit is to coming home. If the unit cannot afford to

lose personnel for leave, service members will not be able to take advantage of the program. Also, if the

service member’s unit is scheduled to return home within the next sixty days, R&R leave is usually not

granted, as the unit will be preparing to redeploy.

The final decision regarding eligibility for R&R leave rests with 

the commander.

7

If the service member is selected to participate in the R&R leave program, the government will pay for

all airline costs from the Gateway in Kuwait to the airport nearest the service member’s leave destination

and return. Service members are not required to come home during R&R leave; they can meet their
- 113 -

Deployment Phase

families somewhere else if they plan to enjoy their leave time at a different location. Leave may not

be taken within any of the designated countries noted above. Additionally, leave may not be taken in

countries listed in the State Department’s “Current Travel Warnings.”

United States Army Europe Kosovo R&R leave Program

The United States Army Europe (USAREUR) also has an R&R leave program for Soldiers and

Department of the Army (DA) civilians who are serving in the Kosovo area of operation, providing up

to fifteen days (including travel time) of chargeable leave away from the area of operation. To be eligible

for the program, Soldiers must be projected to remain in Kosovo for 270 days or more, must have served

at least sixty consecutive days in Kosovo prior to taking R&R leave, and must commence travel no later

than sixty days prior to unit transfer out of Kosovo. Eligible DA civilians must be projected to remain in

Kosovo for 180 days or more, must have served at least sixty consecutive days in Kosovo prior to taking

R&R leave, and must commence travel no later than sixty days prior to transfer out of Kosovo.

Personnel Assistance Points 

PAPs help service members check in to flights 

and process leave forms, and can provide service 

members and their families with additional 

assistance as needed.

7 As a service member goes through the R&R process, he

or she will go through the Gateway in Kuwait, and a

Personnel Assistance Point (PAP) in Europe (if they are

stationed in Europe), or in the United States at

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta or

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. For more information on the USCENTCOM R&R leave

program or the USAREUR Kosovo R&R leave program, please contact the appropriate PAP office.

Atlanta PAP

Hours of Operation 0500-0200 daily

Commercial Phone 1-404-464-4254

1-404-464-4255

Defense Switch Network (DSN) 

Phone (within the continental 

United States (CONUS))

367-4254

367-4255

Toll-Free Phone 1-800-276-5809
- 114 -

Deployment Phase

Dallas-Fort Worth PAP

Hours of Operation 24 hours daily

Commercial Phone 1-972-574-0388

1-972-574-0389

1-972-574-0390

1-972-574-0391

DSN Phone 739-5018 (CONUS)

312-739-5018 (Outside CONUS (OCONUS))

Toll-Free Phone 1-800-770-5580

USAREUR R&R Support Team

Hours of Operation 24 hours daily

Commercial Phone 06221-57-6468 (in Germany)

49-6221-57-6468 (outside Germany)

DSN Phone 314-370-6468

Toll-Free Phone 0800-USAREUR (in Europe) (0800-872-7387)

AL-SHAMEL (Kuwait) PAP

Hours of Operation AL-SHAMEL (Kuwait) PAPs can notify the Al-Shamel

in Kuwait to change tickets. Please do not contact CarlsonWagonlit or any other Sato number in CONUS. Use only

the numbers below to change R&R tickets.

DSN Phone 318-442-0024

318-442-0026

Commercial Phone 011-965-2297-6003 (from CONUS)

Email address Sato@alshamel.com

What to Expect During Rest and Recuperation Leave

Once families know that their service members will be coming home for R&R leave, they will probably

be very excited and may begin planning all the things they will do while their service members are home.

Before planning too much, families may want to consider the following tips for preparing for the leave.
- 115 -

Deployment Phase

Understand that plans can change

It’s not uncommon for the needs of the Service or the unit’s mission to override R&R plans. A service

member’s R&R leave might be cancelled unexpectedly or delayed for an unknown period of time.

In some cases, this may actually be good news as it may indicate that the service member is being

redeployed and is returning home sooner than expected. As families start to plan for an upcoming R&R

leave, it is good to be flexible and to understand that service members’ plans may and often do change

unexpectedly.

Try to have realistic expectations

Although it is normal for families to daydream about what their time with their service members will be

like, they should try not to get too attached to any of those ideas. Things may not go exactly according to

plan. Service members’ time home may come with some emotional ups and downs. Families and service

members may feel very happy being together again, but may also feel stressed or sad knowing that the

leave is short and that service members will be leaving again soon, possibly returning to a war zone.

Emotional reactions may be unexpected or difficult to handle. Families and service members should keep

in mind that anxiety is a natural and normal part of reuniting and that these mixed emotions will soon

pass. Families and service members should try not to let them get in the way of their time together.

Remember that the service member may not want to talk about the deployment

Families should keep in mind that their returning service members may not want to talk much about

combat experiences. There may also be certain things that service members are not allowed to talk about

with their families. Families should try to avoid prying or asking too many questions if service members

do not want to talk about their deployment experiences. Instead, families can focus on helping their

loved one relax and unwind.

Tips for Couples during a Rest and Recuperation Leave

An R&R leave can be both a joyous time and a sad time for service members and their spouses. While

spouses may be happy that their service members have returned home, they know that the service

members will be returning to the deployment in a short period of time. The following tips can help

service members and their spouses make the most of the time they have together during R&R leave.

Talk with couples who have been through an R&R leave before

Before service members come home on R&R leave, spouses may want to speak with other military

spouses who have experienced an R&R leave. They may have good suggestions and helpful ideas on

how to make the most of an R&R leave and how to handle the sadness and other emotions involved in

another goodbye.

Help children to reconnect with the service member

Children may need help reconnecting with their returning parent. Younger children may keep their

distance from service members at first. Spouses can help their children to reconnect with their service
- 116 -

Deployment Phase

member parents by making time for them to spend together. Although spouses may be tempted to have

alone time with their service members right away, it may be more important for the family to spend time

together so that the children get a chance to reacquaint themselves with their service member parent.

Children are often more willing to give their parents uninterrupted time together if they have had special

time with the returning service member first.

Allow the service member to adjust and decompress

Once service members return from the deployed theater on R&R leave, they may need some time to

adjust and decompress. Service members may be getting over jet lag, may need to catch up on missed

sleep, or may need time alone to get used to being home. When planning activities for the R&R leave

period, spouses should keep in mind that service members may need a little time to relax and refocus

right when they get home.

Try to maintain peace and calm at home as much as possible

Service members may have a difficult time with loud noises, loud voices, or a lot of commotion. These

may unexpectedly trigger shock reactions or other painful emotions, especially if service members have

just returned from a war zone. By trying to keep the home as calm and peaceful as possible, spouses can

help their service members relax during their leave.

Share feelings with each other

Communication is the key to all good relationships. Spouses should not be afraid to talk about their

feelings and encourage their service members to talk about theirs as well. Service members and their

spouses can spend time together without talking, too; sometimes just snuggling or giving each other

massages or back rubs communicates as much love and affection as words.

Be extra considerate and understanding

Service members and their spouses should make an extra effort to be considerate and understanding

with one another. They also may want to avoid “hot button” issues and topics that may lead to an

argument or disagreement. Service members are not home for an extended period of time; make the

most of the precious days together.

Try to accommodate each other’s needs

Both service members and their spouses may have different ideas of how they want to spend the R&R

leave period together. Service members and their spouses may have different physical or emotional needs

and this can sometimes cause tensions or strains in a relationship. For example, one partner may want

to rush into sexual intimacy right away while the other might not be ready. Intimate relations may be

awkward at first. Make time to be alone and to talk about each other’s feelings and needs first.
- 117 -

Deployment Phase

Realize that it may take time to rebuild feelings of intimacy

When service members return after months away on a deployment, feelings of intimacy may not return

in one day. Sex may resume immediately, but intimacy, the emotional connection or closeness people feel

towards each other, may take longer to reestablish.

Realize that both partners may need a break

Given that spouses have been taking care of the children and the home during the deployment, they

may also be looking forward to service members’ R&R leave as a period of relief from managing those

responsibilities alone. Spouses may have been up nights with a cranky baby or a sick toddler and may

be looking forward to a break from taking care of the children. Service members may be just as tired

as their spouses are and may be looking forward to R&R leave as a time to relax. Service members and

their spouses need to be sensitive to the stresses that the deployment has caused for everyone and give

each other as much time as possible to rest and relax.

Refrain from giving the service member a lengthy “honey do” list

When service members return home on R&R leave, spouses should hold off on giving them a lengthy

list of tasks to do. Although spouses may be eager to catch up on some of the household or yard jobs

that were service members’ specialty, spouses should let their service members rest first. If there are certain

tasks that spouses need their service members to do, they should start with either the easiest jobs or the

most important ones. Spouses should be sure that their service members understand that they are happy

that their service members are back, and that they are not just happy to have help with chores or yard work.

Avoid a “harsh start-up”

When the service member returns home, spouses should do their best to avoid a “harsh start-up.” In

some cases, a spouse may have something he or she feels the need to talk about, “bad news” that he or

she feels must be shared the moment the returning service member walks in the door or arrives at the

airport. Researchers refer to this as a “harsh start-up.” A harsh start-up can spoil an R&R leave. Once

an interaction starts off on a bad note, it can be very hard to turn it around and make things positive.

It is much better to save difficult issues for later on, when service members and their spouses have

extended time together as a couple and can work through issues or problems and possibly seek

professional assistance.

Realize that the service member may have changed

Spouses should understand that when service members return home, they may have changed as a result

of the deployment. Even though service members and their spouses may have only been apart for a few

months, neither is the same person they were before the separation. Both may feel more independent.

Service members may have changed priorities, especially if friends were wounded or killed as a result of

accidents or combat.It may take some time to get reacquainted with one another, especially if the separation

was prolonged. Things may feel awkward at first. Spend time getting to know one another again.
- 118 -

Deployment Phase

Avoid drastically changing routines

Spouses and children have probably gotten into new patterns and routines while service members have

been away on deployment. Trying to return to old patterns and then right back to the new patterns once

the R&R leave is over is often too much to expect of children. Such changes are difficult enough during

a final reunion but at least then there is much more time to adjust.

Do not expect R&R leave to solve long-standing issues

If service members and their spouses had long-standing relationship or marital issues prior to the

deployment, those issues will still be there during R&R leave. An R&R leave period is not a time to solve

major problems in the relationship. Instead, service members and their spouses should try to enjoy the

time together as a couple and agree to work on the issue when they both have more time in the future.

Encourage service members to seek help if needed

If service members are returning home from a combat zone, they may experience stress-related

symptoms. Traumatic events, such as combat, can trigger nightmares, flashbacks, and feelings of panic,

anxiety, nervousness, or irritability. If service members are exhibiting any of these symptoms, spouses

should encourage them to take advantage of the services and programs available through the military

and to seek professional help if necessary.

If service members experience stress-related symptoms, they 

should get help immediately; waiting until the deployment is over 

may make things worse.

7

Operations and Personal Security

While service members and their families know that their safety is important, families can also help to

contribute to mission readiness for the service member’s unit. If service members are confident that their

families are safe and secure at home, they will worry less and can focus more on the mission at hand. To

help service members and their families be safe during a deployment, the following sections describe the

importance of operations security and tips for ensuring the family’s well-being.

Operations Security

Generally, operations security (OPSEC) means being careful about what is said and done in front

of others. Family members may say or do one thing that could provide enemies with one piece of

information, and someone else could say or do something that provides enemies with another piece of

information. Enemies of the military may be able to piece all of this information together and learn

something that could jeopardize service members’ safety.
- 119 -

Deployment Phase

Service members and their families have probably already been practicing OPSEC at home without

even knowing it. Any time they have gotten ready to go on a trip and have stopped the delivery of the

newspaper, asked their neighbor to pick up the mail, connected their porch lights and inside lights to a

timer, or left a vehicle parked in the driveway, they have practiced OPSEC. They did not want anyone

to know the house was unoccupied. None of the actions listed above directly concealed the fact that the

residence was unoccupied. A newspaper on the lawn or driveway did not necessarily mean that no one

was at home. Newspapers in the yard or driveway would have only been an indicator. That indicator,

combined with other indicators, (no internal lights at night, mail stuffed in the mailbox, etc.) may have

provided an adversary with the information needed to reach a conclusion with an acceptable level of

confidence. When individuals eliminate these indicators, they have a much better chance of ensuring

that their home is not burglarized while they are away.

OPSEC applies to both the family members back 

home and the service members’ deployed units.

7 Although it may be obvious to family members that

they should not give out information on the service

member’s unit, OPSEC also applies to being aware of

the information family members give out about the family at home. Ensuring the security of the unit

and unit families involves considering deployment areas and

liberty times, location of spouses and families during the

deployment, the planned return date, and any special predeployment training. Family members should avoid discussing

operational information in public places, over the telephone, or

with members of the media. Family members often do not realize

how a simple statement made in passing can jeopardize the

conduct of operations and the safety of the people involved.

Family Member Safety during a Deployment

Regardless of whether service members are deployed or at home,

family safety is always important. The following tips can help

family members protect the family at home, away from the home,

and when they are in the car.

Family Safety Measures When at Home

Family members may want to exercise caution when changing routines or the outward appearance of

their home during service members’ deployments. If they are not currently implementing these tips, they

may want to start following them during the deployment and continue following some of them after

service members come home.
- 120 -

Deployment Phase

Do not advertise that service members are deployed 

Displays of support, such as yellow ribbons tied to posts or candles in the window, are blatant

advertisements of a service member’s absence. If family members still want to have yellow ribbons

or other patriotic symbols outside their home, they should keep them up regardless of deployment.

Keeping these up all the time will not raise suspicions. Family members should also consider not

putting their first name on the mailbox or in the phone book. If service members have vehicles, family

members should keep them parked near the residence or in the driveway. This helps make it look as

though someone else is at home. Keeping the lawn maintained can also help to not advertise that service

members are deployed. When traveling out of town, family members should make arrangements for

their mail and newspapers. They can have a trusted friend pick up the mail or go online to the United

States Post Office to have their mail left at the post office or rerouted.

Additionally, spouses should be careful regarding what they post to websites and social media outlets.

Discussing a spouse’s deployment through a blog, Facebook, Twitter, or any other site may inadvertently

advertise that the service member is away. If writing a blog, spouses may want to ensure that they do

not reveal any personal identifying information. Many social media sites allow users to enable security

settings that limit who is able to view information posted on the site. Spouses are encouraged to

understand these settings and limit who can access their page, especially if they discuss the deployment

on the site. Even when security settings are enabled, spouses are reminded to consider OPSEC prior to

posting any information on social media and/or other websites.

Be aware of suspicious activities at the home

When family members get home at night, they should be aware of anything suspicious. If they come

home and the door is open, they should not go inside. They should contact the local police department

immediately and should not bring their children into the home if they sense a problem.

Increase home security

Family members can increase the security of their home by using bolt-type locks on the outside doors.

By attaching one bolt-type lock to the bottom and the top of each door, not in the middle, they can

strengthen the locks on the doors. If the house has a storm door or a screen door, family members should

get in the habit of keeping it locked as well. Chain locks and ordinary door locks have proven ineffective

in preventing intruders from entering the house. When moving into a home that was previously

occupied, family members are encouraged to change the locks. They will have a greater sense of security

knowing that no stranger has a key to the house.

Family members can also increase the security of their home by drawing the shades at night, and leaving

a few lights on outside and inside. They may also want to look into getting a home alarm system. Many

companies make systems very affordable for military families. If they have an alarm system, family

members should make sure to keep the security code private and should make it hard to figure out.
- 121 -

Deployment Phase

Call the police if someone is leering through the window

If family members see someone leering through the window, they should make every attempt to act as

natural as possible, walk to the nearest room with a phone, and contact the police. They should then

turn on the lights and remain inside the house until help arrives. Family members may want to keep the

shrubbery trimmed to prevent potential criminals from using them as a hiding place.

Do not let strangers into the home

If someone comes to the house, family members should not open the door unless they are positive of

the person’s identity. They can use a window or “peephole” in the door to help identify the person. If

they have a postal or shipping delivery, they should not be afraid to ask the delivery employee for photo

identification. If they are uncomfortable opening the door, they can ask the delivery employee to leave

the parcel on the doorstep. If a motorist with a disabled vehicle or someone else in need of assistance

comes to the door, family members should obtain the number the person wants to call, and call it from

inside. They can talk through the locked door. Criminals can be female as well as male; therefore, family

members should take the same precautions with a woman on their doorstep as they would take with a man.

Be careful when speaking to unknown callers on the telephone

Family members should not, under any circumstances, volunteer information to an unknown telephone

caller. Criminals often use this as a means of finding out whether someone is alone and, if so, for how

long. Family members should always leave a caller with the impression that someone is with them. If

family members receive obscene phone calls, they should hang up at once. If the caller persists, family

members should contact the police and the phone company, as it may be necessary to have the phone

number changed. They may also want to have an answering machine or caller ID that allows them

to monitor calls before answering them. It can be a deterrent to potential criminals if the answering

message is recorded in a man’s voice.

If someone calls and asks for the service member, family members should not tell them that the service

member is deployed. They should tell the caller that the service member is sleeping or cannot come

to the telephone, and offer to take a message. If someone calls and claims to be an official military

spokesperson requesting social security verification or the social security numbers of the family members,

family members should ask them to mail the form and say that they will fill it out and return it to the

proper agency. Family members should not give social security numbers to persons over the phone unless

they have contacted an agency themselves and are requesting a service or information that requires it.

Family Safety Measures When Away from the Home

When family members are away from the home, they should still exercise caution to keep themselves

safe during the deployment.
- 122 -

Deployment Phase

Be alert when leaving or returning to the house

Family members should be especially alert when leaving and returning to the house. Before leaving, they

should make sure that all of the doors and windows are locked. Family members are encouraged not to

place a house key in a mailbox or under the doormat. Those locations are probably the first two places a

potential burglar will look. They can leave a key with a trusted friend or neighbor instead.

Do not go places alone

When going out, family members should make sure they have a friend with them, especially at night.

They are less likely to be targeted by potential criminals if they are with others.

Stay alert 

While walking, family members should keep their heads up and their eyes open. They should stay alert

to where they are and who is around them. Being aware of what is going on around them is often a

family member’s best defense.

Be careful when handling cash 

When using an automated teller machine (ATM), family members should be sure to use those that are

placed in well-lit areas. They should avoid secluded, outdoor sites especially at night. When shopping

and paying for merchandise with cash, family members should be careful not to expose large sums of

money in their wallets. They can help deter potential criminals by not giving them a reason to attack.

Take action if being followed

If family members think they are being followed while walking, they should cross to the other side of the

street and change their route to a well-lit, populated area. If they feel like a car is following them, they

can turn around and walk in the opposite direction.

Family Safety Measures When in the Car

When away from the home in the car, family members should also exercise caution to minimize risk

from potential criminals.

Be aware of surroundings when approaching the car

Family members should keep their heads up and scan the area as they approach their cars. If they see

people standing near the car or looking in the windows of the car, family members should not go to it.

They should also look inside the car before getting in to see if anyone is hiding there, even if the door is

locked.

Have keys in hand when approaching the car

When family members walk to their cars, they should have their keys in their hands so they do not have

to linger before entering the car.
- 123 -

Deployment Phase

Make it a habit to lock car doors

Family members should always lock their car doors as soon as they enter or leave it and keep the doors

locked when driving. When family members go to a gas station, they should lock their car while they

are there. This alleviates the possibility of someone sneaking in the other side while their attention is

focused on the gas pump.

Take action if being followed

If family members think they are being followed, they should not go home. They should go to a well-lit

public place or police station for help.

Deployment and the Media

The general public takes great interest in the activities and lives of military personnel.

During deployment periods, the media may request interviews from spouses and other family members.

Reporters may become very interested in spouses, their situation, and the work of the deployed service

member. Reporters may contact spouses to ask how they feel and what they think about the service

member’s deployment. Family member participation in media interviews is completely voluntary, but

they do help the general public understand what families are experiencing. Family members should

remember that installation public affairs officers (PAO) are available to advise and support them when

dealing with the media. The contact information for the local PAO can be found in the Base Installation

Directory from Military Handbooks.

Installation PAOs can provide advice and support to family members 

when dealing with the media.

7

Understanding the Role of the Media

By informing the public, the representatives of the media are playing a vital role in society. Most

journalists are polite but persistent. Family members should be aware that if a journalist stops them on

the street or phones them to request an interview, this does not constitute harassment. As bothersome as

this may seem, journalists are only doing their jobs. If a family member declines to comment or declines

to provide an interview and the journalist persists, that can constitute harassment.

The Right to Say No

Family members should not be intimidated by people reporting for the media. If family members do not

want to speak with the media, they should say so and walk away. They have every right to say no to a

journalist. However, if a reporter refuses to take no for an answer, and is bothering a family member in

person or on the phone, this could constitute harassment. Family members can politely refuse to discuss

any subject or answer any question that makes them feel uncomfortable. If they do agree to an interview
- 124 -

Deployment Phase

with the journalist, they have the right to end it at any time and for any reason. If family members

believe that a journalist is behaving inappropriately or violating a code of ethics, they should not hesitate

to let the reporter know and then contact their Public Affairs Office for assistance.

No one can force family members to make comments. Family 

members decide what information they want to share with the media.

7

Tips for Dealing with the Media

If family members decide to grant an interview with the media, they may want to review the following

tips to help ensure that they are as prepared as possible. 

Know with whom they are talking

Before beginning an interview, family members should ask the reporter for his or her contact

information. The reporter should be able to provide his or her name, telephone number, and the name

of his or her employer. By asking the journalist for their contact information, family members can help

create a good, open relationship with the journalist that allows them to contact the reporter if they have

to. Even if family members decide to decline an interview, asking the reporter for his or her contact

information is good idea.

Remember Operations Security (OPSEC) when responding

Through contact with the deployed service member, family members may know sensitive information

that should be kept confidential to ensure the safety of the service member. Because of today’s

technology, malicious individuals may have instant access to what family members say and may use their

words to the disadvantage of deployed service members. Family members should make sure they do not

disclose sensitive information. Before answering any questions related to deployed service members,

they should ask their service members whether there is any information related to their duties during

deployment that family members are not allowed to disclose. Typically, sensitive information that family

members should not release to the media includes exact numbers and locations of service members,

planned troop movements, redeployment dates, or any other information that would help identify the

mission.

In addition to information about service members and their units, family members should also refrain

from providing any personal information such as their address, home telephone number, and any specific

information about their family such as the name of their children’s schools. If family members do not

want to answer a question because they believe it may violate OPSEC, they should explain that to the

reporter to discourage follow-up questions on the matter.
- 125 -

Deployment Phase

When it is not clear whether a statement may violate OPSEC, 

family members should contact a PAO or refrain from answering 

the question.

7

Talk only about what is known

When giving an interview, it is best for family members to stick

to subjects that directly concern them and that they feel confident

discussing. It is perfectly acceptable to say “I do not know”

when responding to questions. Family members should avoid

answering questions based on speculation or rumors. Typically, it

is best to avoid hypothetical questions, as the answer will also be

hypothetical. If the answer to a journalist’s question is an opinion

on the matter, family members should make it clear that it is only

their opinion. Family members should not suggest that they are

speaking for the service member, the service member’s unit, any

branch of Service, or the Department of Defense (DoD).

Remain calm and professional during an interview

If family members decide to grant an interview to the media, they should be relaxed, confident, and

professional during the interview. They should think before they speak. A positive, enthusiastic response

can build morale and show American resolve. On the other hand, a poorly thought-out response

can create false beliefs, confusion, or damaging speculation. If family members are going through an

emotional crisis, it is probably best not to speak with reporters during that time. In that situation, family

members may not be able to give thoughtful answers.

Remember that everything is on the record

Family members should remember that everything said will be “on the record.” They should not say

anything, even in jest, that they do not want to read, see, or hear later on.

Ask for help if needed

Whether family members live on or off of an installation, the military prefers that they contact the PAO

whenever a reporter requests an interview. Public affairs officers can advise and assist family members in

their dealings with the media.

Communicating during a Deployment

There are many ways for families to remain in contact with the service member throughout the

deployment. Spouses can remain informed on any unit news by staying in contact with the command

through the Rear Detachment (RD), unit military ombudsman networks, family readiness groups
- 126 -

Deployment Phase

(FRG), or family readiness officers (FRO). Family members can also keep in direct contact with their

service members during their deployment through letters, care packages, email, and telephone and

video-teleconferencing. In the event of an emergency, family members can contact their service member

through the American Red Cross.

Communicating with the Command

During a deployment, spouses may need to communicate directly with their service members’ units.

Service members’ units can provide spouses with assistance during the deployment, even when the

majority of the unit is deployed to another part of the world. Military ombudsman networks, FRGs, and

FROs associated with the unit can also provide assistance to spouses and other family members during

the deployment.

Knowing how to communicate with the command in advance can 

make getting assistance easier.

7

Rear Detachment Commander

When a unit deploys, a portion of that unit stays behind. This portion of the unit maintains the unit

operations, is charged with providing assistance to families of the deployed service members in the

unit. Upon deployment, the Rear Detachment Commander (RDC) assumes the duties of the unit

commander and maintains regular contact with the deployed unit commander at the mission site. The

RDC is responsible for the administrative operations of the RD, including maintaining command and

control, accounting for unit property and equipment, and managing personnel.

The deployed commander’s goal is to accomplish the mission while keeping service members safe

and then bringing them home to their families and communities. The RDC works to help families

solve their problems at the lowest level so that the problems and resulting anxieties do not overflow

to the deployed service members or require the attention of the deployed commander. This mutual

coordination and support between the deployed commander, the RDC, and military ombudsman

network, FRG, or FRO significantly enhances the morale of the organization.

Serves as vital communication link to the command

During a deployment, the RDC maintains contact with the deployed unit commander to ensure that

the deployed commander has timely and accurate information and can help resolve issues on the home

front. Because of this constant contact, the RDC can provide two-way communication with the forward

deployed unit, allowing family members to contact their service members. The RDC can work with the

ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO to establish Internet connections and video teleconferences with

the unit so that families can contact their service members.
- 127 -

Deployment Phase

Provides local support to families

The RDC is knowledgeable about available resources in the community. Additionally, the RDC

can provide family members with information or referral for support provided through the military

community related to financial issues, legal affairs, medical services, and personnel service systems.

Maintains contact with unit families

In addition to maintaining contact with families of service members who remain at the installation, the

RDC keeps in touch with families that return to their home of record or otherwise leave the local area

during their service members’ deployments. This ensures that the unit can contact the families in case

of emergency, regardless of where they are located. Families should ensure that the RDC has their new

address if they move during a deployment.

Links the unit military ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO to the deployed unit

The RDC serves as the official information source for families for unit matters. The RDC works with

the unit’s ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO to plan and conduct family briefings, prepare postings for

unit family readiness websites, and review unit family readiness newsletters. The RDC also coordinates

with the ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO to help plan social or recreational activities to build and

sustain morale and camaraderie.

Military Ombudsman Networks, Family Readiness Groups, and Family 

Readiness Officers

Depending on the branch of Service, the service member’s unit may have an associated military

ombudsman network known as an FRG; Marine Corps Unit, Personal, and Family Readiness Program

(UPFRP); Air Force Key Spouse; or a unit ombudsman. These organizations or individuals provide

an avenue of mutual support and assistance, and a network of communication for family members, the

chain of command, and community programs.

Communication and Support

Army FRG Marine Corps

UPFRP

Navy

Ombudsman

Coast Guard

Ombudsman

Air Force Key

Spouse*

*More information on the Air Force Key Spouse program can be found through the Air Force FRO

Serves as an official channel for information from the unit

Through coordination with the RD, the military ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO provides a

systematic method for disseminating official information from the deployed unit. With phone trees and

other methods, the military ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO can assure that any important messages

from the command are effectively and efficiently distributed to families of deployed service members.
- 128 -

Deployment Phase

Serves as a resource for information and referral 

The military ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO can provide families of deployed service members

with information to help solve issues or address concerns. Additionally, the military ombudsman

network is aware of military and community resources and can refer spouses and their families to local

programs and services as needed. Through the military ombudsman network, families can become more

knowledgeable and self-reliant.

Reduces service member and family stress

By providing these services to family members of deployed service members, the military ombudsman

network can help to alleviate family member stress by providing effective and timely support.

Additionally, these programs can help reduce stress for deployed service members, making them more

confident that their families’ needs are being met.

Fosters a sense of community within the unit

The military ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO provides moral support to families and helps establish

a sense of community within the unit. Through information briefings, social events, and recreational

events, the military ombudsman network, FRG, or FRO fosters increased levels of cohesion and

confidence for family members and deployed service members.

Communicating with Deployed Service Members

The greatest morale builder for deployed service members is communication from home. When service

members and their families are separated for so long and by so many miles, communication becomes

vital. Communication can be challenging when service members do not always have easy access to

telephones or computers. Mail service can sometimes take weeks, but family members should not let that

deter them. Getting a letter from home can brighten any day for a service member.

Operations Security

During long distance communications with deployed service members, it is crucial for spouses and other

family members to remember the importance of operations security (OPSEC). OPSEC protects United

States operations, whether they are planned, in progress, or completed. The success of these operations

depends on secrecy and surprise so the military can accomplish the mission more quickly and with less

risk to individual service members. Family members can help ensure the security of deployed service

members’ units by not disclosing certain information.
- 129 -

Deployment Phase

Do Not Disclose:

• unit mission or the number of personnel assigned to the unit

• deployment areas and times

• port call dates

• special shore deployments

• unit morale or personnel problems

• troop movement

• military intentions, capabilities, or operations

• the location of the family during the deployment

• the planned return date for service members

When practicing OPSEC, family members should be careful not to talk about sensitive information in

public settings or over the telephone, post pictures or information on websites or blogs, include sensitive

information in emails or attachments, or write about sensitive information in newsletters. Additionally,

family members should ensure that they shred or destroy unneeded documents and papers providing

information on operations.

Military Postal Service Agency

Through an agreement with the United States Postal Service (USPS), the Military Postal Service

Agency (MPSA) acts as an extension of the USPS abroad, providing postal services to members of the

Military Services and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians. MPSA is required to adhere to USPS

rules, federal laws, and various international laws and agreements for movement of military mail into

over eighty-five countries. It provides postal support to theater combatant commanders through the

individual branch of Services’ theater postal commands.

Military Addressing Tips

Service members look forward to receiving letters and packages from home while on deployment. But

family members should know that mail to the deployed theater is irregular at best. As much as two to

three weeks can pass between the time a letter or package is placed in the mail and the time the deployed

service member receives it.

When addressing a letter or package, family members should make sure that the address they have is

correct. If letters are not addressed correctly, they may be delayed in reaching the service member, if they

arrive at all.
- 130 -

Deployment Phase

The unit’s Rear Detachment (RD) can provide the proper address to 

use during the deployment.

7

The DoD has issued the following guidelines for addressing mail to deployed military and civilian

personnel in support of Operation New Dawn (OND) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).

Use service members’ full names

The DoD cancelled the “any service member” program that allowed individuals to send packages to any

service member in the deployed theater. Letters or packages must be addressed to a specific individual

to be sent to the deployed theater. When writing service members’ full names, family members should

include the rank, first name, and last name.

Include the unit designation and Air/Army Post Office (APO)/Fleet Post Office (FPO) address

A service member’s unit designation is the name of his or her unit. In addition to the unit designation,

letters and packages need to include the Air/Army Post Office (APO) (for Soldiers and Airmen) or

Fleet Post Office (FPO) (for Sailors and Marines) address along with the nine-digit zip code (if one

is assigned). When using the APO/FPO address, family members should not include the name of

the city or country. This ensures that the package is handled in the military mail system instead of the

international mail system.

Include a return address

Family members should include their return address on

the letter or package they are sending to ensure that the

package is returned if deployed service members cannot

be contacted.

Print on one side of packages

Family members should only print on one side of

the package. They should write the service member’s

address in the lower right portion and the return

address in the upper left portion of the package.

Restricted Items

Before sending a letter or package to service members overseas, family members should be aware of any

mailing restrictions. Mail addressed to military and diplomatic post offices overseas is subject to certain

conditions or restrictions regarding content, preparation, and handling.

Although there are specific restrictions for each five-digit APO/FPO, the following items are prohibited

in mail destined for the region of ODN and OEF.
- 131 -

Deployment Phase

Prohibited Items:

• obscene articles, prints, paintings, cards, films, videotapes, and similar items; and horror comics

• any matter depicting nude or seminude persons, pornographic or sexual items, or unauthorized

political materials

• bulk quantities of religious materials contrary to the Islamic faith (items for the personal use of

the addressee are permissible)

• pork or pork byproducts

• fruits, animals, and living plants

• alcoholic beverages or materials used to produce alcoholic beverages (e.g., distilling material,

hops, malts, yeast)

A full listing of mailing restrictions by country can be found in the USPS International Mail Manual

(IMM). Specific restrictions regarding content, preparation, and handling for APO and FPO ZIP codes

can also be found on the USPS Military Mail website.

Letters

Letters are a great way to stay in touch during deployment. Long distance telephone calls can get

very expensive and the availability of email can be sporadic. By contrast, sending letters is relatively

inexpensive and they can be re-read during lonely moments or times when phone and email are not

available. Letters can sometimes be more powerful than other forms of communication, as they provide

service members with something tangible to carry with them throughout the deployment. Family

members should keep in mind that the mail can take a week or more to reach service members and that

military operational schedules can delay mail even more. If family members have been receiving mail

regularly from their service members and the mail suddenly ceases for a week or longer, there is usually

no cause for alarm. Delays such as these are often due to circumstance such as extended operations

or bad weather. When writing letters to service members, family members may want to consider the

following tips.

Number letters

Letters from home may not arrive in the order in which they were sent, so it helps if family members

date and number their letters so that service members will know which to read first. Family members can

number their letters on the outside of the envelope so that if more than one letter arrives on a particular

day, their service members will know which one was written first.
- 132 -

Deployment Phase

Remember that letters can take awhile to get to service members

Any letters that family members send may take a week or more to reach to service members. Situations

often change before a letter is received. Family members are encouraged to avoid making major decisions

or arguing by mail.

Have children send separate letters

Encourage children to send their own letters and encourage service members to answer each of the

children’s letters individually. Having deployed parents answer each letter individually and keeping them

informed of family events, such as ball games, class plays, and grades in school, can help maintain and

strengthen their individual relationships with their children.

Remember OPSEC

Although mail will not be censored by the military, family members should still remember OPSEC

when writing letters to their service members. Family members should remember that indiscrete letters

can endanger the well-being of their service members’ units. If spouses write letters to other family

members while their service members are deployed, they should remember not to disclose official

matters or unit movements and plans.

Be honest in letters, but be tactful

Some family members send letters about how great everything is at home or how perfectly the children

are behaving. Service members know that things do not run that smoothly even when they are home.

The more “everything is great” letters they get, the more service members are likely to worry about

what might be omitted from their letters. Service members might also misconstrue those letters to

suggest that they are not needed at home anymore. Other family members swing too far in the opposite

direction, including every little problem or irritation in a letter. These letters can make service members

feel guilty about being away and not being able to help support their families at home. Service members

want to know about things happening at home, both good and bad. When writing letters, family

members should try to be honest and balanced, sharing both joys and frustrations, always making it

clear how much the service member is missed, but that the situation is tenable, can be managed, and will

make them stronger.

Be clear in letters

Family members should express themselves clearly and unequivocally so that service members will not

have to say, “I wonder what was meant by that.” Neither service members nor family members should

have to read between the lines or spend time worrying over what something means or implies. If

something in a letter is unclear, service members and family members should not hesitate to ask about it

in their next email or letter.
- 133 -

Deployment Phase

Answer all questions

Family members should make sure that they answer all of their service members’ questions when they

respond to their letters. If they do not answer all of the questions, service members may begin to worry

that their family members are hiding something. Service members are also asking those questions

because they want to feel truly involved in what is happening at home. By taking the time to answer

all of their questions, family members can help service members to feel connected with everything

happening at home.

Be careful with sarcasm and humor

Family members should use sarcasm and humor with great care in their letters. When speaking with

someone face-to-face, tone of voice and facial expressions can clearly convey when one is being sarcastic

or when one is kidding around. It is not so easy to convey those things in writing.

Avoid rumors and gossip

Family members should avoid rumors when writing to service members, especially if they deal with

classified subjects such as unit movements or deployments. Remember the importance of OPSEC.

Gossip about other members of the unit, or their families, can cause unnecessary trouble, regardless of

whether the gossip is true.

Do not write when angry

Family members should not write to their service members if they are angry with them or having

a particularly bad day. Instead, they can express those feelings in a journal. Writing things down in

a journal can help to sort through feelings and can help people refocus on what is really important.

Spouses should remember there is no “kiss and make-up” when service members are away and written

words are far more permanent than spoken ones. Sometimes talking to a friend or a chaplain about

frustrations and feelings can help put things in perspective.

Be clear when sharing bad news

If family members have to give bad news in a letter, they should try to be clear and to the point, and

explain all the details including any relevant dates. If there are more minor problems that their service

members cannot help to resolve during the deployment, family members may not want to make too

much of them in their letters. There are many organizations on the installation and in the community

that can provide family members with assistance in solving a number of different issues.

Express appreciation for letters

When responding to their service members’ letters, family members should make sure they let their

service members know how much they appreciate getting letters. By acknowledging appreciation for

letters, family members can have a positive impact on a service member’s mood and outlook.
- 134 -

Deployment Phase

Share feelings openly

Family members should share their feelings as openly as they can. They should let their service members

know that they would like them to share their feelings as well. Family members, especially spouses,

should also try to communicate the feelings of love and appreciation that they feel, and let their service

members know how and why they love them. Just because service members and spouses are separated,

their need to express affection does not diminish. Saying “I love you” to a spouse means just as much

when it is written as it does when spoken in person.

Write often and about anything

Family members should write often and write about anything, even the weather. Letters can be long

detailed accounts of day-to-day activities or short “thinking of you” messages. No matter the length,

letters are greatly appreciated. Writing letters regularly and sharing the details of the days and weeks

help to maintain an emotional connection and make it easier to reunite with service members at

homecoming.

Care Packages

While the military provides service members with most of the items they need during a deployment,

families can send care packages to their service members with special items from home that will make

life more comfortable. Immediate family members may want to encourage other members of the

extended family and members of the community to create and send care packages as well.

Parcels and articles mailed from outside the continental United States (OCONUS) are subject to

examination by United States Customs’ officials. When sending a package to an APO or FPO, the

package will generally need completed Customs forms. More information on Customs’ regulations and

required Customs’ forms can be found on the USPS Customs

Forms website. When assembling care packages for service

members, family members may want to consider the following

tips.

Remember that packages can take awhile to get to service members

Parcel post to the deployed theater can take a week or more to get

to service members. Depending on service members’ operational

schedules and locations, the package may be delayed even further.

Family members should not send perishables through the mail. If

they are sending a package for a special occasion, family members

may want to send it early enough to ensure that the package

arrives in time.
- 135 -

Deployment Phase

Number packages

As with letters, packages may not arrive in the order in which they were sent. By numbering the

packages, service members will know that other packages are on the way if they arrive out of order.

Remember that service members may not have much storage space

With the exception of consumables, it is usually a good idea to limit the size of packages and keep the

items small. Storage space is almost always extremely limited.

Remember to account for extreme temperatures

When sending packages to service members deployed in the desert, family members should remember

that temperatures there typically exceed 100 degrees. These extreme temperatures can melt certain foods,

creating a mess inside the package.

Remove batteries from items

If sending an item that uses batteries, family members should remove the batteries and wrap them

separately before shipping. Battery powered items can sometimes get turned on accidently during

shipment.

Place liquids in heavy plastic bags

If the package contains any items that may spill or leak, family members should put the items in heavy

plastic zipper-lock bags. Freezer bags also work well, and service members are likely to find other uses

for them.

Use sturdy packaging and pack items securely

Packages will travel a great distance to get to service members. Family members should use a sturdy

container, realizing that the package may not arrive in its original form. If the package is sent using a

recycled box, family members should make sure to cover all previous labels and markings with a heavy

black marker or adhesive labels. For fragile items, family members may want to consider using two boxes,

packing the fragile item in the smaller box with a layer of cushioning inside. That smaller box can be

placed in a slightly larger box with cushioning in between them to help absorb shock.

Although Styrofoam packing will help cushion the package, family members can maximize the space in

their package by using reusable packing material. Fragile items can be surrounded with small packages

of tissues, copies of the local newspaper, plastic zipper-lock bags filled with popped popcorn, small

bean bag-style stuffed toys (for service members to hand out to local children), or anything else that the

service member will be able to use.

Enclose a card listing the address and contents of the package

Family members should include service members’ names and addresses and their own name and address

on a card inside the package. Improperly wrapped packages can fall apart during shipment. By including
- 136 -

Deployment Phase

a card inside that lists the contents, mail handlers can help put together the items if the package breaks

apart. If the package should be damaged and neither address on the outside can be read, it will be

opened by the post office. Having service members’ addresses and the return addresses on the card

inside the package will help the post office to deliver the package mail.

Do not use wrapping paper or string

If possible, family members should not use wrapping paper or string, cord, or twine on the outside of the

package. These items can cause problems with postal machines. The post office recommends the use of

reinforced, nylon strapping tape.

Identify packages that include magnetic recorded tapes

If the package contains any video or audio cassettes or players, family members should mark their

package with the words “MAGNETIC RECORDED TAPES INSIDE-DO NOT X-RAY.”

Know about the services available through the USPS

For family members sending mail to service members while they are deployed, the USPS offers the

Priority Mail APO/FPO Flat Rate Box. This allows family members to pay a specified flat rate for

packages sent to service members, regardless of weight or destination.

More information about USPS services can be found on the USPS 

Priority Mail APO/FPO Flat Rate Box website.

7

Know that service members may not have privacy

When sending things to the deployed theater, family members should consider that service members

may not have the luxury of privacy. What is sent will undoubtedly be seen by a number of other people.

Sometimes these packages are opened for security reasons or by Customs officials. Service members may

open the package in front of others as well.

Send non-perishable food items

When sending food items to service members, family members should remember not to send perishable

items as these may spoil during transit. Family members should also wrap food securely so it will be

edible on arrival. Chocolate may melt before it arrives. If the package does include something that may

melt, make sure that it is wrapped separately to protect the other items in the package. Here are some

suggestions for foods that travel well and will be appreciated:

• Snacks – Service members will likely appreciate any snacks from home. When determining what

snacks to include, family members should look for small, hard containers of chips, pretzels, and nuts

These containers are easier to carry than large containers. Avoid bags, which may burst under high

or low pressure. If the package contains large bags or containers, consider including smaller zipper

lock plastic bags so service members can pack smaller amounts of snacks to carry. Snack cakes,
- 137 -

Deployment Phase

cheese crackers, and cookies are also usually appreciated. Salty snacks are usually a good idea for

service members deployed in the desert, especially during the summer months, as they encourage

service members to drink more water.

• Candy and gum – If sending chocolate, gum, or other types of candy, understand that these may

melt in warmer climates. Pack them in plastic zipper-lock bags. Family members may want to send

extra for service members to share, especially if they come into contact with children.

• Powdered drink mixes – Service members can add these powdered drink mixes to water for a treat.

In colder months, family members can send hot beverage mixes such as cocoa, instant coffee, tea bags,

and creamer. For warmer months, they can send sweetened drink mixes such as lemonade and iced tea.

• Meal enhancers – Family members may want to send anything that can be used to enhance the

flavor of service members’ meals ready to eat (MREs). These can include ramen noodles, seasoned

salt, individual packets of hot sauce, ketchup, mustard, relish, etc.

• Quick protein – Service members usually enjoy items that provide quick sources of protein such as

energy bars, tuna fish, sardines, non-perishable beef jerky, or beef summer sausage.

Send personal care items

Although service members will be issued personal care items while deployed, family members can help

remind them of home and make the deployment a little more bearable by supplementing issued items

with additional personal care items such as the following:

• Small, travel-size containers of personal care products – Send small, travel-size containers of

personal care products, but avoid aerosol cans. When packing these items in a care package, keep

liquids from spilling by covering the opening of the container with plastic wrap and recapping

before shipping.

• Toiletries – Service members can always use a new toothbrush, and additional toothpaste, dental

floss, cotton swabs, shaving lotion, disposable razors, shampoo, and small packages of tissues.

• Personal care – Personal care items, such as individually packaged baby wipes, eye drops, lip balm,

lotion, aspirin or other pain reliever, deodorant, sunscreen, and feminine hygiene products, are also

really appreciated.

• Foot care – Service members will likely spend a lot of time on their feet every day during the

deployment. Foot care products, such as moleskin, medicated foot powder, and athlete’s-foot

ointment, often come in handy.

• Goggle-style sunglasses – If service members are deployed to the desert, they can always use

another pair of sunglasses.

• Cotton socks and underwear – Additional pairs of socks and underwear are also appreciated by

service members. If family members do send socks and/or underwear, make sure the garments are

made of 100 percent cotton rather than a cotton blend.
- 138 -

Deployment Phase

Send entertainment and communication items

In addition to personal care and food items, service members enjoy receiving entertainment and

communication items in their care packages. Here are some items to consider including:

• Reading material – This can include paperback books, current magazines, comic books, or copies of

the hometown newspaper.

• Word games, puzzles, and other games – Items such as crossword puzzles, word searches, jigsaw

puzzles, foam footballs and basketballs, Frisbees, Hacky Sacks, playing cards, and yo-yos can help

service members pass the time while deployed.

• Electronics and batteries – Service members always appreciate electronic devices such as portable

DVD players and CD players, DVDs, CDs, and handheld electronic games. If electronic devices

require batteries, family members should make sure to send additional batteries in the care package

Size AA and D batteries are often in high demand in the deployed theater.

• Calling cards – If service members have access to a telephone, making collect calls home can become

expensive. Family members can help keep the cost down by adding calling cards to their

care package.

• Writing materials – Provide notepaper, envelopes, pens, pencils, and stamps so services member can

continue to send letters home.

Send reminders of home

Of all of the items family members can place inside a care package for service members, the most

important items to them may be simple reminders of home and reminders that their loved ones are

thinking of them. Family members can include a personal note, photographs, and family videotapes.

Email

Email can be an efficient way to communicate with service members overseas. It is a very quick method

of communication and is relatively inexpensive and versatile.

If family members do not have a computer with Internet access at 

home, they can use one at a community library, cyber café, or at the 

nearest military installation or family readiness agency.

7
- 139 -

Deployment Phase

Remember OPSEC when writing emails

As with letters, family members should remember to practice OPSEC when writing emails to deployed

service members. They should not disclose official matters, operational details, or unit movements and

plans in emails.

Number emails

Even though emails come with a time-date stamp, these are not always effective due to the time

differences and how often service members are able to check email. By numbering emails, family

members can ensure that the deployed service member will read them in the proper order.

Be patient when awaiting a response

Family members should be patient when awaiting a reply from deployed service members. Service

members may not be able to access their email due to operational requirements. Although they may read

email sent by family members, they may not have time to respond immediately. Additionally, the email

networks in remote areas or on ships are not always operational.

Try to send small, mostly text emails

It is usually better to send small, mostly text email messages to deployed service members. If the message

contains graphics or attachments, the email may be undeliverable because of download times and

military network restrictions.

Remember that email is not secure

Emails sent to deployed service members can be read by many other people and may be screened by

others. Family members should keep this in mind when deciding what information to share.

Try not to write emails when angry or upset

Family members may want to be careful about using email to send an emotionally laden message. If they

are angry or upset and need to get it off their chest, they should go ahead and write the email but save it

for twenty-four hours. After this time, they should reread the email before sending it. It is usually best to

communicate strong feelings over the phone when it is not possible to do so in person.

Telephone Calls and Video Teleconferencing

Although letters and emails are great forms of communication, neither can replace the feeling of actually

hearing a loved one’s voice. The following recommendations can help family members make the most of

their telephone conversations.

Consider using calling cards

Telephone calls to other countries can be very expensive, even when using a cell phone. Calling cards

can lower costs and are sometimes provided free of charge to members of the military. Family members

should be sure to research hours, rates, and service charges that will accrue when using calling cards and
- 140 -

Deployment Phase

remember to check the calling area covered by the rates. The rates quoted may not be applicable when a

card is used to place calls from areas other than the home phone or local calling area.

Prepaid phone cards usually list the number of minutes, but the 

minutes listed are often for use in the United States and they may 

differ for out-of-country calls.

7

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) provides free phone cards to deployed

service members and hospitalized veterans through their Operation Uplink.

Determine the availability of video teleconferencing

During some deployments, service members’ units may have access to video teleconferencing. If

family members have the opportunity to do a video

teleconference, they will need to coordinate with the

military ombudsman network or family readiness group

(FRG) to determine the time and place.

Keep a written list of things to talk about

Due to time zone differences and mission requirements,

the frequency and duration of telephone calls may be

limited. Family members may want to keep a list of

topics to talk about when calling. This can help them

make the most of their limited phone time with their

service member.

Try to stay positive and upbeat

When speaking with deployed service members over the telephone, family members should try their best

to stay positive. If they are not able to remain upbeat throughout the conversation, they should try to end

their conversation on a positive note.

Discuss daily activities

Family members should discuss problems and solutions during their call if they need to address them,

but should not let the entire call revolve around these issues. They should take time to discuss their daily

activities; doing so will make it easier to reconnect with the service member at homecoming.

Keep in mind that service members may not have privacy

Privacy in the deployed theater is a luxury that service members may not have. When on the telephone,

service members may have many other service members close by, and may be hesitant to fully express

their feelings. 
- 141 -

Deployment Phase

Express love for the service member

Being reminded that he or she is loved and valued can mean so much to a service member. Family

members should tell their deployed service members that they love them and that they appreciate the

sacrifices they are making.

Military Affiliates Radio System

The Military Affiliates Radio System (MARS) is a DoD-sponsored program, managed and operated as

individual programs by the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The program consists of licensed amateur radio

operators who are interested in providing auxiliary or emergency communications to local, national, and

international emergency and safety organizations, as an adjunct to normal military communications.

MARS calls are one-way only, meaning only one 

person may speak.

7 Occasionally, deployed service members may be able to

place a MARS call home. These calls are made via

amateur radio to a receiving station in the United States

and then via commercial phone. Those receiving will only be charged the collect rate from the receiving

station, but the call must be limited to three minutes. Family members will get instructions about the

MARS call from whoever is assisting at the receiving station.

MARS can also be used if family members have access to email. The message in email form is delivered

to a local MARS station and they can then relay the message. The service member’s full name, rank,

division, squadron, or ship, and email address for return message will be required. To use MARS in this

manner, the message must be less than fifty words.

More information on MARS can be found on the Service websites:

• Army MARS, 9th Signal Command

• Navy-Marine Corps-Coast Guard MARS

• Air Force MARS TRANSCON Digital Network

MotoMail

The Marine Corps Motivational Mail System, MotoMail, is a free service that provides a discreet and

secure way of sending letters to deployed Marines through the Internet. Family members enter their

letter on the MotoMail website and within twenty-four hours, the United States Marine Corps Post

Office serving the Marine’s location downloads the letter to a special printer, which also folds and seals

the letter to ensure confidentiality. The letter is then hand-delivered to the service member.

MotoMail is currently available to some forward deployed Marine units in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel who are co-located with deployed Marines are also eligible to

receive letters through the MotoMail program. More information on the program is available on the

MotoMail website.
- 142 -

Deployment Phase

Armed Forces American Red Cross Emergency Message Services

If family members experience a crisis during the deployment, the American Red Cross can help get

in contact with the service member. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the American Red

Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services (AFES) relays urgent messages containing accurate, factual,

complete, and verified descriptions of the emergency to service members stationed anywhere in the

world, including on ships at sea and at embassies and remote locations. American Red Cross AFES keep

military personnel in touch with their families following the death or serious illness of an immediate

family member, the birth of a service member’s child or grandchild, or when a family faces other

emergencies.

Replacing Identification Cards during a Deployment

While service members are deployed, family members may feel overwhelmed and need assistance.

There are many programs and services on military installations and in the community that provide

support and assistance to military families. These programs and services specialize in helping to quickly

resolve the unique concerns and problems impacting family members of deployed service members. For

family members of active duty service members, access to these programs and service will be the same

as when service members were at the installation. Family members of National Guard and Reserve

service members will have access to programs and services that were not available before the deployment.

Descriptions of these programs and services can be found in the Key Military Organizations section of

this guide.

Family members must have current ID cards to access programs 

and services on installations.

7

Prior to accessing any of the installation programs and services, family members must be enrolled in the

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) and must have a valid Uniformed Services

Identification Card (ID card). The following sections are designed to inform eligible family members

of how to verify and update their information in DEERS during a deployment and how to receive

replacement ID cards during a deployment.

Verifying and Updating Family Member Information in DEERS

If family members are already enrolled in DEERS, they can verify their information by visiting the

nearest ID card facility (also known as a Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System

[RAPIDS] Site). As a registered family member, spouses may make address changes for themselves

and their children, but only service members can add or delete family members from DEERS. If the

service member has given them access, spouses can update their address and phone numbers through

the DEERS website or through TRICARE’s Beneficiary Web Enrollment. Spouses can also verify

and update their family’s information through the nearest ID card facility (found through the Defense
- 143 -

Deployment Phase

Manpower Data Center’s [DMDC] RAPIDS Site Locator), by calling the DMDC Support Office

(DSO) at 1-800-538-9552, by faxing changes to DEERS information to 1-831-655-8317, or by mail to:

The Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office

ATTN: COA

400 Gigling Road

Seaside, CA 93955-6771

When service members are not present due to a deployment, spouses may still be able to enroll

themselves and children in DEERS, if they can establish their relationship to the service member, his or

her status, and if the duration of the deployment can be verified. The spouse should contact the nearest

RAPIDS site for guidance. Spouses who do not have a valid power of attorney for DEERS enrollment

and updates may wish to contact their service member’s Rear Detachment (RD) in an effort to obtain

one.

Replacing Identification Cards

If a spouse or child loses a military ID card while the service member is deployed, a replacement card

bearing the expiration date of the lost card may be issued. The spouse should contact the nearest

RAPIDS site regarding the issuance of a replacement card. If the member is not deployed, a temporary

ID card may be issued. Temporary ID cards are valid for thirty days and are considered on a case-bycase basis.
M I L I T A R Y

Deployment Guide

Post Deployment Phase

Return and Reunion..................................................................................................................... 145

Post Deployment Affairs.............................................................................................................. 151

Post Deployment Benefits........................................................................................................... 172
- 145 -

Military Deployment Guide

Post Deployment Phase

This section of the guide is intended to help service members and their families to navigate the

challenges of the service members’ return from deployment and the time immediately following their

return. The information presented in this section of the guide applies to returning active duty service

members from all branches of Service, National Guard service members, Reserve service members, and

all family members (spouses, children, and parents) of active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service

members who have completed a deployment.

Return and Reunion

When preparing for a homecoming, service members and their families go through a range of emotions

and, most likely, encounter many stressful days as all of the last minute preparations are made. Once

service members return and reenter their families’ daily life, some changes will need to be made; service

members and their families will need to communicate and determine how daily routines and regular

family life will change.

Understanding the different stages of return and reunion can help 

make it a smoother process for service members and their families.

7

Stages of Return and Reunion

Service members and their families go through five stages during their return and reunion: pre-entry,

reunion, disruption, communication, and normalization. As they move through these five stages, service

members and their families reestablish old routines and make new ones while learning to live together as

a family again.

Pre-entry Reunion Disruption Communication Normalization

Pre-Entry Stage

The first stage of return and reunion, the pre-entry stage, begins during the last days before the actual

reunion. During this stage, service members work long hours to ensure equipment has been turned in
- 146 -

Post Deployment Phase

and that they have completed required tasks before arriving home. Family members are often busy trying

to prepare everything for their service members’ arrival. Worries about getting everything finished on

time and making the reunion perfect are common. Both service members and their families may spend a

lot of time day dreaming about what the reunion will be like.

Reunion Stage

The reunion stage begins on the immediate meeting of service members and their families and

continues into the first few days following the return home. The reunion stage is a time of courtship,

joy, relearning, and intimacy, as service members reestablish themselves in the family environment. This

is not the best time to address problems; it is a time for understanding and for reestablishing family

relationships. It is also important to remember that during this time, both service members and family

members may be tired, ready to relax, and may need some time and space alone to decompress.

Disruption Stage

This stage occurs after the reunion when families return to old routines and establish new ones. During

the deployment, families established new routines and redefined roles and responsibilities to account

for their service members’ absence. Their service members’ return home requires everyone to review

current routines and change them as needed. This stage can be characterized by some level of stress and

frustration. Service members may encounter issues with each family member’s new found independence

and may experience friction with spouses over finances, control or management of household affairs,

establishment of family routines, and authority in the decision-making process. Unresolved problems or

issues that were present prior to the deployment may arise again during this stage. If service members

have children, they may also experience behavioral issues, trust issues, or friction between them as service

members reassert their parenting responsibilities. 

Communication Stage

During the communication stage, service members and their families renegotiate routines, reconnect

with each other, and redefine family roles. Service members and their spouses have to relearn how to

share household responsibilities and how to make decisions as a couple. During this stage, it is important

to have good family communication to ensure that everyone understands new rules, routines, and

expectations.

Normalization Stage

The final stage in the return and reunion process is normalization. In this stage, service members and

their families return to the normal family routine of sharing, growing, and experiencing the ups, downs,

joys, and sorrows of a family. During this stage, service members and their families will establish and

start following new routines and accept the changes that may have occurred in how they work together

as a family.
- 147 -

Post Deployment Phase

Preparing for the Reunion

When planning for a reunion, it is important to consider the expectations that both service members and

their families may have and how those expectations may differ from the reality of the reunion.

Expectations Leading Up to the Reunion

Throughout a deployment, service members and their families

imagine what their reunion will be like. Service members

may have carried a mental picture with them about how the

homecoming would be. It may have included the family running

to meet him or her, the baby uttering “Mama” or “Dada” for

the first time, the toddler running towards him or her with

outstretched arms, or an older child huddling close and wanting

to know all about the deployment. They may have been dreaming

of returning to their house, having home-cooked meals, being

able to enjoy hobbies, driving their car or truck again, spending

time with their children, and regaining intimacy with their

spouse. Service members often return home thinking that their

role in the house will return to what it was before the deployment

and that everything will be just as it was before they left. They

may also have a bit of anxiety as they prepare for the reunion,

worrying about how well they will fit back in to the family.

Spouses may have been dreaming of their service members’ return as well, imagining the quality time

with their service members, the help they will have around the house, the break they will get from being

a single parent, and the general support and encouragement they will have again. Spouses may also be

worried about whether service members will appreciate or resent their accomplishments. They may enjoy

their newfound independence and may worry about giving that up.

Children’s expectations leading up to a reunion can run the gamut from excitement to fear associated

with not knowing what to expect. They may have spent time coming up with a list of everything they

want to do with their service member parent when he or she returns home. Older children may also

have some anxiety about addressing issues or concerns that arose during the deployment (e.g., trouble at

school, a new boyfriend or girlfriend, etc.).

Try to keep everyone’s expectations as realistic as possible; the 

reunion may not go as expected, but service members and their 

families can still enjoy being together again.

7
- 148 -

Post Deployment Phase

The Reality of a Reunion

As the reunion approaches, service members should understand that things have changed for everyone.

The homecoming will most likely be a stressful time as service members begin to adjust to being back

at home with friends and family again. A service member’s reunion can sometimes cause more stress

in people’s lives than deployment due to the changes that have taken place during the deployment and

concern for how life will change again. Be patient and be flexible.

Although returning service members may not feel as though they have changed during the deployment,

they have. They have learned new skills, met new people, and had experiences that have contributed to

their personality. Upon their arrival home, service members should understand that other people may

recognize these changes, even if they do not. Things at home are likely to have changed too. Friends may

have developed new friendships with other people. Spouses may have changed as a result of taking on

the family responsibilities during the deployment and are probably more independent than they were

before the deployment.

Children also changed. They have grown physically, developmentally, emotionally, and socially during

the deployment. Despite these changes, they will still need support managing the stress associated with

the reunion. Children have little life experience and may not know how to act during the homecoming.

Tips for Planning for the Reunion

When planning for a reunion, service members and family members should understand that plans can

change at the last moment; flights may be delayed or emergencies may arise that prohibit some family

members from being able to attend the reunion. Although service members and their families can never

really plan for everything that can occur leading up to the reunion, they should consider the following

tips when planning to help make the homecoming memorable and go as smoothly as possible.

Communicate with each other before the reunion

Service members should do their best to keep family members updated on the return plan and any

changes in the schedule. They should also share their own preferences for the reunion.

Budget for the reunion

Reunions add expenses to a family’s budget, such as higher food bills, greater transportation costs, etc.

Service members may want to encourage family members to plan carefully. Drafting a budget for the

reunion can help family members decide what can be included and what cannot be included in the

reunion event and can help control family costs.

Involve children in the planning

Children should be included in the reunion planning as much as possible, taking into account their ages

and developmental levels. Spouses or caregivers can have children help with planning special outings,

making small gifts, making a welcome home banner, or helping to cook the homecoming meal.
- 149 -

Post Deployment Phase

Have realistic expectations

Service members should try to keep expectations for the reunion in check and encourage family

members to establish realistic expectations as well. Spouses or caregivers can help control children’s

expectations by talking to them ahead of time and by keeping them involved in the planning and

upcoming festivities.

Decide who will be part of the reunion

Service members should decide who they would like to have present at the initial reunion. Some service

members may want to limit it to only immediate family members while others may be comfortable

including extended family and friends as well. Knowing the service member’s preference can make this

part of the planning much less stressful for the family member organizing the reunion.

Make backup plans

Given that return dates and schedules can change, service members should encourage family members

to make backup plans. Family members may not be able to be to meet a plane due to a work schedule,

children’s needs, a family emergency, or simply lack of advance notice. Family members should make

backup plans including how service members will get home if the family is unable to attend the reunion.

Reunions can be exhausting. Service members and family members 

should try to get enough rest prior to the reunion.

7

Get enough rest the night before the reunion

Few service members and family members get much sleep the night before a reunion. Family members

often review last minute preparations and are anxious for the service member’s return. Service members

and family members should try to get enough rest before the reunion; it can be a long day for everyone

involved.

Understand that everyone is anxious

Everyone experiences a feeling of anticipation as the end of the deployment approaches. This may take

the form of eagerness for reunion, dread of a return to a problematic situation, or a mixture of both.

It is also normal for both service members and their family members to feel nervous and wonder how

the people have changed, whether they will be accepted, whether they will be proud of the other’s

accomplishments, etc.

Tips for Making the Reunion Successful

The following recommendations can help make the reunion a successful event for both the service

member and their family. 
- 150 -

Post Deployment Phase

Be realistic

As with planning for the reunion, service members should try to keep expectations for the actual

reunion realistic. It may not be exactly what everyone has been imagining, but that is alright. Service

members and their families should focus on being together again and less on the details of the festivities

surrounding that event.

Remember that the day can be very stressful

Service members and their families should realize homecoming day is very stressful. Service members

have probably not slept very much and may be very tired. Family members may also be exhausted from

lack of sleep and from the stress of preparing for their service members’ return.

Remember the backup plan, if needed

Service members should be patient if no one is there to meet them upon arrival and should use their

backup plan to call someone or get themselves home. They should not jump to conclusions or take it

personally. Changes in the return schedule, a missed message, or family or work responsibilities are likely

explanations; not a lack of desire from families to see their service members as soon as possible.

Show appreciation for family members’ accomplishments

Service members are encouraged to show their appreciation for the extra work their families have taken

on while they were away and for handling all of the household responsibilities. Service members should

refrain from criticizing the ways their family members are handling these added tasks, even if it is very

different from how they would have done it. Many returning service members feel a little hurt at finding

out how well their families have managed without them. Instead, service members can take pride in

knowing they are part of a strong, resilient family.

Focus on positive changes

Service members should try to look for the positive changes in their family, such as how children have

grown and matured, new skills family members have learned, or household improvements spouses have

managed. Service members can tell family members they are proud of them for how they managed

during the deployment and should make a conscious effort to make positive comments about any

changes that they notice.

Be patient with children

Children may not welcome service members back immediately with smiles and hugs. Very young children

may not have clear memories of their service member parents and may be shy or even scared of them

at first. Older children may be angry at service members for being away so long. Teenagers may resent

giving up some of the independence and responsibility they had during the deployment. Service members

should be patient as children take the time to get to know them and accept them as a parent again.
- 151 -

Post Deployment Phase

Agree on a near-term schedule

Disagreements between service members and their families can arise over the schedule for the first days

after the return. Service members may be tired and want nothing more than to stay at home and relax.

Families may want to plan social outings or go visit friends and family. Service members should discuss

this with their families to avoid stress and frustration. It may be possible to plan the first few days in

a way that meets everyone’s expectation, allowing a lot of time for rest and a couple of visits to close

friends or family members. 

Post Deployment Affairs

Shortly after return from deployment, service members will have various options for taking some welldeserved leave. During this time off, service members should revisit some of the preparations made

prior to their deployment. The following sections provide an overview of the leave options that may

be available to service members after a deployment as well as descriptions of the administrative, legal,

financial, and employment affairs that service members may need to address.

Leave following a Deployment

Because opportunities to take leave while on 

deployment were limited, service members 

may have a large amount of chargeable leave 

available when they return home.

7 Once service members return home, they will probably

want to take some well-earned time away from work to

spend with their families. The following sections

provide an overview of two leave accrual programs that

may have increased the amount of leave that service

members have available to them upon their return, a summary of “block leave,” and the compensation

options available to National Guard and Reserve service members for their leave following a

deployment.

Special Leave Accrual

Normally, members of the military lose any accrued leave in excess of sixty days at the end of the fiscal

year (seventy-five days during the period of October 1, 2008 through December 31, 2010). In some

cases, service members may accrue and not lose additional days of Special Leave Accrual (SLA) if

certain circumstances are met.

Received hostile fire or imminent danger pay

If service members served on active duty for a continuous period of at least 120 days in an area in which

they received hostile fire or imminent danger pay, they may be eligible to accumulate up to 120 days

leave at the end of the fiscal year. Any accrued leave in excess of sixty days (seventy-five days during the

period of October 1, 2008 through December 31, 2010) will be lost unless the excess leave is used before

the end of the third fiscal year (fourth fiscal year if leave was accrued during the period of October 1,

2008 through December 31, 2010) following the fiscal year that service members qualified for SLA.
- 152 -

Post Deployment Phase

Assigned to deployable ship, mobile unit, or similar duty

If service members did not serve in a hostile fire or imminent danger area, but were assigned to a

designated deployable ship, mobile unit, or other similar prescribed duty, they may also be able to

accumulate up to 120 days of leave. Any accrued leave in excess of sixty days (seventy-five days during

the period of October 1, 2008 through December 31, 2010) will be lost unless the excess leave is used

before the end of the third fiscal year (fourth fiscal year if leave was accrued during the period of October

1, 2008 through December 31, 2010) following the fiscal year that service members qualified for SLA.

Assigned in support of contingency operation

If service members served in a duty assignment in support of a contingency operation, they may be

authorized to accumulate annual leave in excess of sixty days (seventy-five days from October 1, 2008

through December 31, 2010). In this case, service members can retain the excess leave until the end of

the second fiscal year following the fiscal year in which the duty assignment in support of a contingency

operation was terminated.

Sell back of additional SLA leave for enlisted service members

For enlisted service members who would lose excess leave (leave in excess of 120 days), they may be able

to sell back up to thirty days of SLA at any time. If service members do sell back this leave, these days

will count toward their cap of sixty total days sold back over the course of a career. The sell back option

for excess SLA leave days only applies to enlisted service members; officers may not sell back additional

SLA leave.

Post Deployment/Mobilization Respite Absence

The Post Deployment/Mobilization Respite Absence (PDMRA) is a category of administrative absence

that applies to deployments and mobilizations that were underway on or staring after January 19, 2007.

When deployment or mobilization frequency exceeds a specified 

level, service members are entitled to earn additional administrative 

absence days of leave under PDMRA.

7

Active component PDMRA

Active component service members who have deployed on tours in excess of twelve months during

the last thirty-six months qualify for PDMRA. Time in a deployed status started on the day service

members arrived in theater and ended on the day they departed from the theater of operations. For

every month service members were deployed in excess of the twelve-month threshold during a thirty-six

month period, they are entitled to receive a specified number of administrative absence days. PDMRA

days awarded to active component service members are

• one day of PDMRA per month in excess of twelve months during the thirty-six month period.

• two days of PDMRA per month in excess of eighteen months during the thirty-six month period
- 153 -

Post Deployment Phase

• four days of PDMRA per month in excess of twenty-four months during the thirty-six

month period.

The number of days accrued are cumulative. For example, if a service member was deployed for a total of

nineteen months in a thirty-six month period, he or she will have earned one day each for the thirteenth

through eighteenth month, and two additional days for the nineteenth month. This would provide the

service member a total of eight administrative leave days.

National Guard and Reserve PDMRA

National Guard and Reserve service members who have been mobilized for more than twelve months

in the past seventy-two months qualify for PDMRA. Time in mobilized status started on the day

service members were mobilized (not the day they arrived in theater) and ended on the day their

mobilization was terminated. For every month service members were deployed in excess of the twelvemonth threshold during the seventy-two month period, they are entitled to receive a specified number of

administrative absence days. PDMRA days awarded to National Guard and Reserve service members are

• one day of PDMRA per month in excess of twelve months during the seventy-two month period.

• two days of PDMRA per month in excess of eighteen months during the seventy-two month period

• four days of PDMRA per month in excess of twenty-four months during the seventy-two

month period.

As with PDMRA for active duty members, the number of days accrued are cumulative (see the example

above for active component PDMRA).

Block Leave

Block leave is a period of leave granted to 

most or all of a unit at the same time.

7 Active duty service members returning from a

deployment may be granted “block leave” by their unit

leadership. Block leave is often allowed during the

summer period, the Christmas holidays, and before and after deployments. Leave taken during block

leave is chargeable to a service member’s accrued leave balance.

Leave Options for the National Guard and Reserve 

National Guard and Reserve service members completing a deployment have three options for any leave

they may have accrued while on active duty: receiving payment for leave, taking pre-separation leave, or a

combination of the first two options.
- 154 -

Post Deployment Phase

Receiving payment for leave

National Guard and Reserve service members may elect to be paid for their accrued leave. Even if they

have sold accrued leave in the past, they may still be paid for their leave that was accrued during their

deployment. The rule that limits the number of days that service members may be paid for accrued leave

(sixty days in a career) does not apply to National Guard or Reserve service members who have been

called up involuntarily or volunteered to serve in support of a contingency operation.

Taking pre-separation leave

National Guard and Reserve service members may opt to take their accrued leave. Leave requests must

be submitted using established Service procedures. Service members can either be placed in a leave status

prior to completion of the period for which they were ordered to active duty, or they may be extended

past their normal separation date in order to take accrued leave.

If service members were involuntarily called up under the partial

mobilization authority, they cannot be extended beyond twentyfour months in an involuntary status since the law limits the

period of involuntary service to twenty-four months. If the leave

period takes the service member beyond the twenty-four month

period, his or her orders will be amended to place them under a

voluntary authority while on leave.

Combine the two options

The third option available to National Guard and Reserve service

members is to take part of the accrued leave and be paid for the

unused portion of accrued leave.

More information on leave options for demobilizing National

Guard and Reserve service members can be found through the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense, Reserve Affairs.

Revisiting Administrative Affairs

Following a deployment, service members should revisit some of the administrative preparations

that they made prior to the deployment to ensure that information is current. These tasks should be

accomplished in a timely manner following a deployment.

Updating Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System Information

The Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) is an automated information system

that lists all service members and their family members who are eligible for military benefits and

entitlements, including TRICARE. 
- 155 -

Post Deployment Phase

Upon return from deployment, service members should ensure that 

their family’s information in DEERS is up to date.

7

Shortly after returning from a deployment, National Guard and Reserve service members will

demobilize and their unit will deactivate. When this occurs, these service members will no longer be

serving on active duty. Demobilizing National Guard and Reserve service members will need to bring

a copy of their Department of Defense Form (DD Form) 214, “Certificate of Release or Discharge

from Active Duty,” and a copy of their release from active duty (REFRAD) orders to the military

identification card (ID card) office at their demobilization station to update their status from active

duty to National Guard or Reserve. Demobilizing National Guard and Reserve service members should

also update their family member’s information in DEERS to indicate that their family members are no

longer “active duty family members.”

If the spouse of a service member gave birth during the deployment, the newborn child may not have

been enrolled in DEERS if the spouse did not have either a general or specific power of attorney. As the

sponsor for the family, the service member is able to enroll newborn children and should do so as early

as possible. Newborn children are automatically covered by TRICARE Prime for 120 days, but they will

not be covered by military health care after the 120 day period unless they are enrolled in DEERS.

Service members can verify and update DEERS information by visiting the nearest ID card facility (also

known as a Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System [RAPIDS] Site). Service members

can also update information online through TRICARE, locate the nearest RAPIDS site through the

Defense Manpower Data Center’s (DMDC) RAPIDS Site Locator, or they can call the DMDC

Support Office (DSO) at 1-800-538-9552, fax changes to DEERS information to 1-831-655-8317, or

send changes by mail to:

The Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office

ATTN: COA

400 Gigling Road

Seaside, CA 93955-6771

Issuing New Uniformed Services Identification Cards

National Guard and Reserve service members who received an active duty ID card during their

deployment will need to visit a RAPIDS Site once their information has been updated in DEERS to

receive a new National Guard or Reserve ID card. If family members of National Guard and Reserve

service members received active duty family member ID cards during the deployment, they will also

need to receive updated ID cards. After updating their information in DEERS, they will need to

accompany the service member to a RAPIDS site with a completed DD Form 1173-1, “Department

of Defense Guard and Reserve Family Member Identification Card,” to receive the new ID card. The

nearest ID card facility can be found through the DMDC RAPIDS Site Locator.
- 156 -

Post Deployment Phase

Updating Family Care Plans

A family care plan is a collection of documents that describes who shall provide care for children, as well

as disabled or elderly family members who are dependent on service members for financial, medical,

or logistical support (e.g., food, housing, transportation) if service members are away due to military

duty (training exercises, temporary duty, or deployments). The plan lists the legal, medical, logistical,

educational, monetary, and religious arrangements for family members, must address all foreseeable

situations, and must be detailed enough to provide for a smooth transfer of responsibilities if service

members are away.

Governed by DoD Instruction 1342.19, each of the Services has a form for ensuring that service

members have been counseled about a family care plan:

Family Care Plan Forms

Army Department of the Army (DA) Form 5305-R,” Family Care Plan”

Marine Corps Marine Corps Order (MCO) 1740.13A, “Family Care Plans”

Navy Bureau of Naval Personnel (NAVPERS) 1740/6, “Department of the Navy

Family Care Certificate”

Navy NAVPERS 1740/7, “Family Care Plan Arrangements”

Air Force Air Force Form (AF) 357, “Family Care Certification”

Prior to a deployment, service members should have updated their family care plans. Upon return from

deployment, service members should review their family care plans and update them as necessary.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is a low-cost term life insurance protection policy

offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for service members on active duty, members

of the National Guard, and members of the Ready Reserve. SGLI automatically covers service members

for the maximum unless coverage is declined or elected at a lower amount. Service members who prefer

not to be insured or who prefer less than the $400,000 maximum coverage must complete and file a form

SGLV 8286, “Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Election and Certificate,” with their branch of

Service.

Upon returning from deployment, service members should review the 

beneficiaries listed for their SGLI to ensure that they are still correct.

7
- 157 -

Post Deployment Phase

Service members are encouraged to consult a Legal Assistance attorney for assistance completing the

SGLV 8286. The nearest military Legal Assistance Office can be found through the Armed Force Legal

Assistance (AFLA) Legal Services Locator.

Revisiting Legal Affairs

In the period immediately following a deployment, service members should also revisit some of their

legal affairs. Some legal documents will need to be canceled or revoked, while others will need to be

updated.

Each of the Military Services provides assistance and advice in drafting and updating legal documents

through Legal Assistance Offices. The nearest military Legal Assistance Office can be found through

the Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFLA) Legal Services Locator. In addition to the military Legal

Assistance Offices, the American Bar Association (ABA) Standing Committee on Legal Assistance for

Military Personnel (LAMP) manages Operation Enduring LAMP, a consortium of state and local bar

associations that recruit volunteer attorneys to assist military Legal Assistance attorneys with civil law

cases affecting service members. The location of the nearest participating program can be found on the

Operation Enduring LAMP website.

Terminating Powers of Attorney

Prior to deployment, service members may have drafted a specific or general power of attorney. Upon

return, it is probably best for service members to revoke that power of attorney. Any existing power of

attorney will remain in effect until the expiration date, if it was included, or until the person granting

the power of attorney revokes it. If the power of attorney established prior to the deployment does not

have an expiration date or if the expiration date has not yet arrived, service members revoke the power

of attorney.

To revoke a power of attorney, service members can obtain the original document and destroy it. If

service members cannot access the original power of attorney, they should contact any creditors, bank,

or business institutions and provide them with a power of attorney revocation. Assistance in revoking

a power of attorney can be provided through the Legal Assistance Office on the nearest military

installation. The nearest military Legal Assistance Office can be found through the AFLA Legal

Services Locator.

Expiring Legal Protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) protects the legal rights of service members called to

active duty. It applies to active duty members of the regular forces, members of the National Guard when

serving in an active duty status under federal orders, members of the Reserve called to active duty, and

members of the Coast Guard serving on active duty in support of the Military Services. In limited cases,

the SCRA may also apply to family members.
- 158 -

Post Deployment Phase

National Guard and Reserve service members returning from a deployment will soon be demobilizing

and their unit will deactivate. Once this occurs, they will no longer be serving on active duty and may

no longer qualify for legal protections under the SCRA. The SCRA’s coverage normally terminates “on

the date the service member is released from military service or dies while in military service.” Specific

sections of the SCRA do provide for protections past the date in which the service member is separated

from active duty. Service members are encouraged to consult a Legal Assistance attorney for more

information on post deployment protections under the SCRA. The nearest military Legal Assistance

Office can be found through the AFLA Legal Services Locator.

Once National Guard and Reserve service members demobilize, they 

may no longer qualify for legal protections under the SCRA.

7

Court and administrative procedures

Under the SCRA, service members can obtain a stay or postponement of court or administrative

proceedings if their military service materially affects their ability to proceed in the case. The SCRA

provides for an automatic stay for a period of time in these proceedings when this protection is

requested in writing. Any additional delay beyond the mandatory ninety day stay period is awarded at

the discretion of the judge, magistrate, or hearing officer. This protection does not apply to any criminal

court or criminal administrative proceedings.

The request for the stay of court or administrative proceedings can come while service members are on

active duty or “within ninety days after termination of or release from military service.” In the event

that military duty continues to affect a service member’s ability to attend to the matter, he or she can

request an additional stay with proof of the same sort that would lead to an initial ninety day stay of the

proceedings.

Default judgments

A default judgment is entered by a court against a party (an individual, company, etc.) who has failed to

put up a defense to a claim that has been brought by another party. If service members fail to respond

to a suit against them and, as a result, a default judgment is obtained against them, they may reopen the

default judgment using their protections under SCRA if the default judgment was obtained while they

were on active duty or within sixty days after their release from active duty.

To reopen a default judgment, service members have to file an application to reopen the judgment

within ninety days of their release from active duty. There are three main criteria that must be met if

they are to reopen a default judgment:

• service members must not have made an appearance in the case

• service members’ military service must have materially affected their ability to defend themselves

• they must have a meritorious defense
- 159 -

Post Deployment Phase

Evictions

If service members are renting a home or apartment and their rent is below a certain amount, they

are protected under the SCRA from being evicted for ninety days if they can prove that their military

service materially affects their ability to pay rent. If the landlord continues attempting to or actually

succeeds in evicting a service member or their dependents while the service member was protected under

the SCRA, the landlord may be subject to sanctions such as fines or imprisonment.

When released from active duty, service members and their families are no longer covered by the SCRA

in relation to evictions. After their release, the landlord will not be required to seek a court order to evict

the service member and their family for failure to pay rent.

Living Will

A living will, or advance medical directive, is a written document that allows a person to describe what

medical treatments he or she does or does not want in case of a serious terminal illness. Post deployment,

service members may want to revisit the document to ensure that their designated persons are still

current. If service members’ wishes have changed following their deployment, they should make sure

that the person designated in the living will is aware of their new wishes and update the living will

accordingly. Service members are encouraged to consult a Legal Assistance attorney for help updating

living wills. The nearest military Legal Assistance Office can be found through the AFLA Legal

Services Locator.

Last Will and Testament

A last will and testament (or will) is a declaration by a person of how his or her property should be

disposed of after his or her death. Following a deployment, service members are encouraged to review

their wills to determine if they still meet their needs and if any changes are necessary. Service members

should consult a Legal Assistance attorney for help updating wills. The nearest military Legal Assistance

Office can be found through the AFLA Legal Services Locator.

Revisiting Financial Affairs

After returning from a deployment, service members should revisit some of their pre-deployment

financial preparations. Specifically, service members are encouraged to review their pay statement (as

income will change), revoke any emergency assistance pre-authorization forms that have not expired,

and create a new family budget based on post deployment income. During the deployment, service

members may have qualified for certain financial protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

(SCRA). These protections will be expiring if the service member is leaving active duty service.

Review Leave and Earnings Statement

A leave and earnings statement (LES) is a comprehensive report that shows service members’ leave and

earnings totals for the month. When service members return home from a deployment, they should
- 160 -

Post Deployment Phase

review this statement to ensure that everything is correct. When reviewing the LES, service members

should pay particular attention to any special pays and allowances they were receiving during the

deployment, any allotments they set up prior to the deployment, and their tax status. National Guard

and Reserve service members should also review their LES to ensure that they are no longer receiving

active duty pay.

Reviewing a LES

MyPay allows service members to access their 

current and certain past LESs twenty-four hours 

a day, seven days a week.

7 Service members can review their LES through the

Defense Financial Accounting Service‘s (DFAS)

automated online system, MyPay. Using MyPay, service

members can also view tax statements and change

certain discretionary pay data items, such as direct deposit allotments, without using paper forms.

Special pays and allowances

While on deployment, service members may have qualified for additional special pays or pay allowances

such as the Family Separation Allowance (FSA), hazardous duty pay, flight pay, and hostile fire

pay. These special pays and allowances would have temporarily increased their income during the

deployment. Upon return from deployment, these pays should have stopped. Service members are

encouraged to review their LES and ensure that they are no longer receiving these deployment-related

special pays and allowances. If these additional pays are still included in the LES, service members

should not spend this money and report the error to their unit’s pay administrator immediately. Any

additional money that should not have been paid to service members will be collected back once the

adjustment is processed.

Allotments

Allotments are a specified portion of pay and allowances that service members authorize to be made

payable to a qualified person or institution. Allotments can be made to ensure that certain financial

obligations are automatically taken care of, such as rent or a car loan payment, but cannot exceed

the total amount of service members’ take home pay (total pay and allowances less any standard

withholdings).

From the LES, service members can review any allotments that were set up prior to deployment. Upon

return from deployment, service members may want to stop any allotments and resume managing their

financial affairs directly. They can initiate, change, or stop any allotments by completing Department of

Defense Form (DD Form) 2558, “Authorization to Start, Stop, or Change an Allotment,” and providing

it to their unit’s pay administrator.

Tax status

Earnings received during time in the combat zone are excluded from taxable income. For enlisted service

members and warrant officers, the amount of non-taxable income is unlimited; a limit on the amount of

non-taxable income does exist for officers. This tax exclusion is “event-based,” meaning that if a service
- 161 -

Post Deployment Phase

member spends a single qualifying day in a combat zone, his or her pay for the entire month is excluded

from taxable income. When serving in a combat zone, any bonuses and special pays to which service

member were entitled are also excluded from their taxable income. The reduction in taxable income

shown on service members’ W-2 should be automatic.

As the combat zone tax exclusion is event-based and

automatic, once a service member returns home from

deployment, this should no longer apply to his or her

income. Regardless, service members are encouraged

to review their LES to ensure that their pay now has

taxes withheld from it. If the LES is still showing

a tax exemption after service members return from

deployment, their tax bill may be significantly higher

than expected when they file their taxes for the year.

Termination of active duty pay

National Guard and Reserve service members should

review their LES to ensure that the active duty pay they were receiving while deployed has stopped.

If the active duty pay has not stopped, these service members will receive an overpayment that will be

collected back once the adjustment is processed. Demobilized National Guard and Reserve service

members are encouraged to contact their unit’s pay administrator immediately if they are still receiving

active duty pay.

Revisiting Emergency Assistance Pre-Authorization 

Each of the branches of Service offers emergency financial assistance through their respective relief

organizations for service members and their families who demonstrate a financial need. Prior to a

deployment, service members may have completed a pre-authorization form that allowed their families

to request emergency financial assistance through these relief organizations on their behalf. The form

should have included an expiration date for the pre-authorization. After this expiration date, service

members’ families are no longer be able to request assistance in the service member’s name; any

emergency financial assistance requested through these organizations would have to come directly from

the service member.

If the expiration date on the pre-authorization form has passed, service members do not need to contact

the relief organizations. The form will be destroyed automatically. If the expiration date has not passed

when a service member returns from deployment, he or she may wish to contact the relief organization

to revoke the pre-authorization. More information on revoking pre-authorization forms can be found

through the individual branches of Service relief organizations:
- 162 -

Post Deployment Phase

Service Relief Organizations

Army Emergency

Relief (AER)

Navy-Marine Corps Relief

Society (NMCRS)

Air Force Aid

Society (AFAS)

Coast Guard Mutual

Assistance (CGMA)

Creating a New Budget

Active duty service members returning home from deployment will no longer be eligible to receive some

of the additional special pays and allowances they have been receiving throughout their deployment.

Additionally, now that they are no longer serving in a combat zone, they will no longer qualify for the

combat zone tax exclusion and will have federal and state income taxes withheld from their pay again. As

a result, their monthly take home pay will most probably decrease.

Monthly income will likely change following a deployment; service 

members and their families should draft a new family budget.

7

National Guard and Reserve service members will no longer be receiving active duty pay, any special

pays or allowances they were receiving as part of the deployment, and will no longer be eligible for the

combat zone tax exclusion. They will be switching back to receiving monthly drill pays from the military,

so their income from the military will decrease significantly. When transitioning back to a civilian career,

National Guard and Reserve service members should keep in mind that they will not begin receiving

their civilian employment’s pay right away; they may need to work a complete pay period before

receiving compensation for that period. Because of this, there may be a small gap in the time from when

they stop receiving active duty pay to when they start receiving paychecks from their civilian employer.

Regardless of whether service members are on active duty, in the National Guard, or in the Reserve,

their amount of monthly income will likely change following a deployment. During this time, service

members and their families may want to review their current financial situation and draft a new family

budget to account for the changes in their monthly income. For example, service members and their

families can use the deployment/redeployment calculator on MyArmyBenefits.mil to estimate the

changes in their income.

Assistance with Controlling Finances 

Assistance reevaluating and adjusting budgets following a deployment is available through the services

of financial counselors in the installation Personal Financial Management Program (PFMP), through

Military OneSource, or through approved command and community resources from the Joint Forces

Headquarters ( JFHQ). Service members who are not geographically located near a military installation

can access Military OneSource and the JFHQ to receive resources and assistance through their local

community.
- 163 -

Post Deployment Phase

Personal Financial Management Program

The PFMP is offered by each of the branches 

of Service and is designed to assist members 

of the military in controlling their finances and 

successfully planning for their financial future.

7 The PFMP provides classes, one-on-one counseling

sessions, and additional information designed to

educate service members and their families about

consumer rights and to help them achieve financial

stability. Typical services provided by the installation

PFMP offices include the following:

• Prevention education – These courses and counseling services are designed to prepare service

members, Department of Defense (DoD) civilians, and their families to make better financial

decisions by educating them about good financial practices, financial traps, and about their rights and

obligations as consumers. 

• Classes, workshops, and training – Financial classes and training are required for service members

who are at the greatest risk for financial problems. Target populations may include all junior enlisted

service members, service members who have been scheduled for their first permanent change of

station (PCS) move, service members preparing for deployment, or any service member about to

assume a leadership role as a supervisor, officer, or noncommissioned officer.

• Financial counseling services – One-on-one financial counseling services are available voluntarily. .

or on a command referral basis to address topics such as budget development, financial planning,

spending plan development, management of personal finances, and evaluating assets and liabilities.

• Debt liquidation assistance – Assistance in analyzing assets and liabilities, developing a repayment

program to eliminate debts, and in understanding the steps and processes for contacting and

negotiating with creditors is also available. Once a debt repayment plan has been established, the

PFMP helps track the plan to ensure that debts are eliminated and that the service member can

manage his or her finances independently.

• Consumer advocacy services – These services provide information to help service members, DoD

civilians, and their families make educated decisions about their personal finances.

• Consumer complaint resolution – The PFMP can help complete consumer complaint forms,

provide information on consumer rights, and make appropriate referrals to military and civilian

resources responsible for resolving such complaints.

• Coordination with Service relief organizations – The PFMP works with the Service relief

organizations to assist service members and their families in requesting emergency financial 

assistance.

• Financial classes and seminars for youth and teens – Age-appropriate classes and seminars on

various financial issues are available for children of service members to help prepare them to make

better financial decisions.
- 164 -

Post Deployment Phase

Contact information for the nearest installation personal financial offices can be found through

MilitaryHOMEFRONT’s MilitaryINSTALLATIONS application under the program/service

“Personal Financial Management Services.”

Financial Counseling through Military OneSource

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email.

Military OneSource provides up to twelve free financial counseling sessions by phone or in person per

issue, per calendar year, per eligible client. Eligible clients include active duty service members, National

Guard and Reserve service members (regardless of activation status), and their families located in the

continental United States.

The counseling is short-term and solution-focused, designed for

service members and families who may be experiencing a financial

setback. Whether service members need advice for a specific debt

problem or basic assistance with money management, a financial

expert can help them analyze their situation and develop a debt

management plan.

Through a partnership with the National Foundation for Credit

Counseling (NFCC), Military OneSource can provide inperson financial counseling in hundreds of local NFCC offices

nationwide. Service members who are unable to attend in-person

counseling or those in locations where in-person counseling is not

available may be able to receive specialized financial consultations

over the telephone through Military OneSource’s on-staff

Accredited Financial Counselors.

Contact Military OneSource online or by phone stateside

at 1-800-342-9647 to schedule an appointment to receive telephonic financial counseling or an inperson appointment with a financial counselor. The Military OneSource website lists specific dialing

information for other countries.

Spouses are also encouraged to ask Military OneSource consultants about the Military Spouse Career

Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) Program that provides spouses with up to $4,000 of financial

assistance if they are pursuing a license, credential, or associate’s degree leading to portable career

employment. During deployment may be a perfect time to take some educational classes that help meet

personal and family goals.
- 165 -

Post Deployment Phase

Expiring Financial Protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

In addition to legal protections, the SCRA provides certain financial protections for service members

called to active duty. The SCRA’s financial protections apply to active duty members of the regular

forces, members of the National Guard when serving in an active duty status under federal orders,

members of the Reserve called to active duty, members of the Coast Guard serving on active duty in

support of the Military Services, and, in limited cases, family members. National Guard and Reserve

service members returning from a deployment will soon be deactivated and will no longer be covered by

the financial protections of the SCRA.

Generally, financial protections under the SCRA expire within thirty 

to ninety days following release from active duty.

7

Reduced interest

Under the protections provided by the SCRA, service members may have been able to reduce the

interest rate to 6 percent on all financial obligations they entered into before beginning service on active

duty. These financial obligations could have included the interest rates on credit cards, automotive loans,

mortgages, and even some student loans. Additionally, the SCRA prohibited lenders from accelerating

the principal amount owed, and forgave the excess interest payments that would have been due under

the higher interest rate.

If service members qualified for this protection and were able to reduce the interest rate to 6 percent on

their obligations, they will be required to notify their creditors that their service on active duty is ending.

Their original request for protection under the SCRA would have included a copy of military orders, so

their creditors will already know when service members’ time on active duty was originally scheduled to

be complete. If service members returned home from deployment before the date noted in their original

orders, they should contact their creditors to inform them. All of their creditors who reduced their

interest rate to 6 percent will be returning their payments to the previous amounts and reinstating the

interest rate to the level it was prior to the deployment. In the case of mortgages, the reduction in the

interest rate to 6 percent extends for one year from the date of release from active duty.

Service members should consult a Legal Assistance attorney for assistance and answers to questions

related to the reduced interest provision of the SCRA. The nearest military Legal Assistance Office can

be found through the Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFLA) Legal Services Locator.

Foreclosures and repossessions

If, due to military service, service members were unable to maintain the terms of a purchase contract for

real property or an automobile, service members’ property could not have been foreclosed or repossessed

without a court order under SCRA. This protection under SCRA extends for a period of nine months

following release from active duty. To be eligible for this protection, service members must have entered

into a contract to purchase the real property before their service on active duty; contracts entered into
- 166 -

Post Deployment Phase

after service on active duty began are not protected by the SCRA. Service members who believe that

their property was repossessed illegally while they were deployed should consult a Legal Assistance

attorney at their nearest Legal Assistance Office. The nearest military Legal Assistance Office can be

found through the AFLA Legal Services Locator.

Termination of residential leases

When service members entered active duty, the SCRA allowed them to terminate residential leases and

rental agreements without penalty. To have been eligible to do this, service members would have had to

show that they entered into the lease before they entered active duty and that they had received orders

for service on active duty for at least ninety days. They would also have been required to provide their

landlord proper written notice and a copy of their military orders.

Service members who entered into a lease or rental agreement after they began active duty service

may still have been able to terminate the lease without penalty under the SCRA. Active duty service

members receiving PCS orders or deployment orders for a period in excess of ninety days would have

qualified under the SCRA to end their rental agreements without repercussions. Under this condition,

service members also would have needed to provide written notice to their landlord and a copy of their

military orders.

Service members who attempted to terminate residential leases under either of these situations and were

not allowed to do so without penalty should consult a Legal Assistance attorney at their nearest Legal

Assistance Office. The nearest military Legal Assistance Office can be found through the AFLA Legal

Services Locator.

Termination of automotive leases

When entering active duty, the SCRA also provided the financial protection to terminate automotive

leases without penalty. As with the residential lease protection, service members would have had to show

that they entered into the lease before they entered active duty to be eligible for this protection.

Generally, National Guard and Reserve service members could have terminated their automotive leases

without penalty if they were called to active duty for at least ninety days. Active duty service members

would have been eligible to terminate their automotive leases if, after they entered into the lease, they

either received military orders for a PCS move from the continental United States (CONUS) to outside

the continental United States (OCONUS), a PCS move from Alaska or Hawaii to any location outside

of those states, or deployment of at least ninety days.

Service members who attempted to terminate automotive leases under either of these situations and

were not allowed to do so without penalty should consult a Legal Assistance attorney at their nearest

Legal Assistance Office. The nearest military Legal Assistance Office can be found through the AFLA

Legal Services Locator.
- 167 -

Post Deployment Phase

Revisiting Employment Affairs

Members of the National Guard and Reserve with full-time civilian jobs who were called to active duty

to mobilize or deploy are entitled to certain benefits and protections under the Uniformed Services

Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) of 1994. As National Guard and Reserve

service members prepare to demobilize, they should reacquaint themselves with the law, the protections

it provides, their eligibility under the law, and special circumstances in which their employers may not be

required to comply with the law. An overview of the law, its protections, and service members’ eligibility

is discussed in the Employment Affairs Preparations section of this guide. Additionally, National

Guard and Reserve service members should understand what their responsibilities are as they apply for

reemployment and know how to file a complaint.

Although USERRA automatically provides protections, returning 

National Guard and Reserve service members do have some 

responsibilities for ensuring their reemployment.

7

Service Member Responsibilities Following a Deployment

Although service members are automatically protected by USERRA following a deployment, they

do have some responsibilities to ensure their reemployment. They must submit an application for

reemployment in a timely manner, understand the repercussions of failing to submit an application in a

timely manner, the format of the application for reemployment, and the documents required to establish

eligibility for protection under USERRA.

Timely application for reemployment 

Once the period of military service has been completed, service members must contact their employers

to provide notice of the intent to return to work. Deadlines for reporting back to work or applying for

reemployment vary depending on the amount of time service members were away on military duties and

whether they were hospitalized due to an illness or injury incurred or aggravated while on service:

• Thirty or fewer days of service – Service members are required to report back to work no later than

the first full regularly scheduled work period on the first calendar day following completion of

service. If travel is required from the location of service to home, the law requires the service member

to report back to work “as soon as possible.”

• Thirty-one to 180 days of service – Service members must submit an application for reemployment

with their employer no later than fourteen days after completion of military duties. If it is impossible

or unreasonable for service members to apply within fourteen days through no fault of their own,

they must submit the application not later than the next full calendar day after it becomes possible to

do so.

• More than 180 days of service – Service members must submit an application for reemployment

within ninety days of the completion of military duties.
- 168 -

Post Deployment Phase

• Hospitalized or convalescing from an illness or injury incurred or aggravated during service –

Service members must report to or submit an application for reemployment to their employer after

the amount of time necessary to recover from such injury or illness. Although this extends the period

of time in which a service member can report back to work, this period may not exceed two years

from the date of the completion of service.

Failure to submit an application in a timely manner

If service members fail to timely report for or apply for reemployment, they do not automatically forfeit

their rights under USERRA. But they do become subject to the conduct rules, established policy, and

general practices of their employer pertaining to an absence from scheduled work.

If reporting or submitting an employment application to an employer is impossible or unreasonable

through no fault of a service member, he or she may report to the employer as soon as possible (in the

case of a period of service less than thirty-one days) or submit an application for reemployment to the

employer by the next full calendar day after it becomes possible to do so (in the case of a period of

service from thirty-one to 180 days), and he or she will be considered to have reported or applied for

reemployment in a timely manner.

Format of the application for reemployment

The application for reemployment does not 

need to follow any particular format according 

to USERRA.

7 Service members may apply for reemployment orally or

in writing. By doing so in writing, they can ensure that

they have a record of their application. The application

should indicate that the service member is a former

employee returning from service in the uniformed Services and that he or she is seeking reemployment

with the pre-service employer. Service members are permitted but not required to identify a particular

reemployment position in which they are interested.

The application must be submitted to the pre-service employer or to an agent or representative of the

employer who has apparent responsibility for receiving employment applications. Depending upon the

circumstances, such a person could be a personnel or human resources officer, or a first-line supervisor. If

there has been a change in ownership, the application should be submitted to the employer’s successorin-interest.

Required documents to establish eligibility

Service members may be required to prove their eligibility for reemployment under USERRA. The types

of documents required to establish eligibility vary from case to case but may include the following:
- 169 -

Post Deployment Phase

Documents required to establish eligibility

• Department of Defense Form (DD Form) 214, “Certificate of Release or Discharge from

Active Duty”

• copy of duty orders prepared by the facility where the orders were fulfilled carrying an

endorsement indicating completion of the described service

• letter from the commanding officer of a Personnel Support Activity or someone of comparable 

authority

• certificate of completion from military training school

• discharge certificate showing character of service

• copy of extracts from payroll documents showing periods of service

• letter from National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) Team Leader or Administrative Officer

verifying dates and times of NDMS training or federal activation

Filing a Complaint and Finding Assistance

If service members believe that their rights under USERRA have been violated, there are many options

for resolving the issue. Service members should start by speaking directly with their employers. More

often than not, discussions with employers can lead to acceptable solutions as long as the discussion is

conducted in a respectable and calm manner. If this course of action is not successful, service members

should speak with their unit commanders. Unit commanders may be able to discuss or articulate the

issue with the employer better, or they may be able to suggest compromises and alternatives that address

everyone’s concerns. If speaking directly to the employer or the unit commander does not resolve the

issue, service members can receive assistance through the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

(ESGR), the Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), and

the Attorney General.

Service members have many options if they believe that their rights 

under USERRA have been violated.

7

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

ESGR is a Department of Defense (DoD) organization operated through a network of volunteers in

local ESGR committees in the each state, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin

Islands. The ESGR works to educate civilian employers and communities about the National Guard and

Reserve through a comprehensive outreach program known as the Civilian Employment Information

(CEI) Initiative. The ESGR works with employers and communities to promote the development of

personnel policies designed to accommodate members of the uniformed Services and assists military

units in promoting and maintaining positive relationships between employers and National Guard and
- 170 -

Post Deployment Phase

Reserve employees. The ESGR educates service members regarding their obligations to their employers

and their rights under USERRA and assists them in preventing, resolving, or reducing employer/

employee problems and misunderstandings related to USERRA through mediation and ombudsman

services.

The ESGR ombudsman service can answer questions or provide mediation between service members

and their civilian employers if they encounter a conflict while applying for reemployment. The ESGR

ombudsman services can be reached through the ESGR Customer Service Center, by telephone at

1-800-336-4590, by email at USERRA@osd.mil, or by mail at the following address:

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

1555 Wilson Blvd., Suite 200

Arlington, VA 22209-2405

United States Department of Labor

Through the DOL VETS, service members can receive assistance with respect to employment and

reemployment rights and benefits under USERRA. This assistance includes a wide range of compliance

assistance outreach activities, such as responding to inquiries, conducting USERRA briefings and

webcasts, issuing news releases, and maintaining the elaws USERRA Advisor, the e-VETS Resource

Advisor, and other web-based materials. In providing such assistance, VETS may request the assistance

of other federal and state agencies and volunteers.

Service members who believe that their employer has failed or refused, or is about to fail or refuse, to

comply with the rights and protections extended under USERRA may file a complaint with VETS or

initiate a private legal action in a court of law. Service members can file a complaint with VETS either in

writing, using VETS Form 1010, or electronically using VETS Form e1010. A complaint must include

the name and address of the employer, a summary of the basis for the complaint, and a request for relief.

Upon receipt, VETS will initiate an investigation of the complaint.

VETS does not have authority to order employers to comply with USERRA. If, as a result of its

investigation, VETS determines that the complaint is meritorious, VETS will attempt to resolve the

complaint by making reasonable efforts to ensure that any persons or entities named in the complaint

comply with USERRA. If VETS’ efforts do not resolve the complaint, VETS will notify service

members of the investigation results and their right to proceed on their own. If service members receive

a notification from VETS of an unsuccessful effort to resolve a complaint relating to a state or private

employer, they may request that VETS refer the complaint to the Office of the Attorney General

(OAG). If service members receive notification from VETS of an unsuccessful effort to resolve a

complaint relating to a federal employer, they may request VETS to forward the request to the Merit

Systems Protection Board (MSPB).
- 171 -

Post Deployment Phase

If VETS states that the complaint could not be resolved, service members may still pursue the claim on

their own. Service members may choose to be represented by private counsel regardless of whether OAG

decides to represent them for the complaint.

Office of the Attorney General

If a service member’s claim is against a state or private employer, and the OAG is reasonably satisfied

that the complaint is meritorious, the OAG may appear on the service member’s behalf, act as his or her

attorney, and initiate a legal action to obtain appropriate relief. If the OAG determines that the complaint

does not have merit, the OAG may decline to represent the service member. If the OAG determines that

the claim does not have merit, the service member may still pursue the claim on his or her own.

Merit Systems Protection Board and the Office of Special Counsel

The MSPB is an independent, quasi-judicial agency in the executive branch of the United States

government that serves as the guardian of federal merit systems. If a service member requests that his

or her unresolved complaint against a federal agency be referred to the MSPB, VETS must refer the

complaint to the United States Office of Special Counsel (OSC). If the OSC is reasonably satisfied that

the service member is entitled to the rights or benefits sought, the OSC may appear on the behalf of,

and act as attorney for, the service member and initiate an action regarding such complaint before the

MSPB. The OSC is required by law within sixty days of receipt of the request to decide whether they

will represent the service member before the MSPB and to notify the service member of their decision.

If a service member chooses not to be represented by the OSC or the OSC does not agree to represent

the service member, he or she may still submit a complaint against a federal agency directly to the

MSPB. If the MSPB determines that a federal agency has not complied with USERRA, they will enter

an order requiring the agency or office to comply with such provisions and to compensate the service

member for any loss of wages or benefits suffered because of the lack of compliance.

Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan

The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster

Loan (MREIDL) program to provide funds to eligible small businesses to meet their ordinary and

necessary operating expenses that they could have met, but were unable to meet, because an essential

employee was called-up to active duty in his or her role as a National Guard or Reserve service member.

An essential employee is an individual (whether or not an owner of the small business) whose managerial

or technical expertise is critical to the successful day-to-day operations of the small business.

If a service member is deemed an essential employee at the small business for which they work, the small

business may file for assistance from the date the service member received notice of expected call-up to

active duty. The period of eligibility to apply for assistance extends until one year after the date in which

the service member is discharged or released from active duty. More information on applying for the

MREIDL can be found in the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan section of this guide.
- 172 -

Post Deployment Phase

Post Deployment Benefits

Upon return from a deployment, service members and their families may become entitled for a variety

of benefits. Some of these benefits require enrollment, so it is important for service members and family

members to be aware of them and to take any necessary enrollment steps if they meet specified eligibility

requirements. The following sections provide an overview of post deployment health benefits, education

and training benefits, wounded warrior benefits, and survivor benefits.

Post Deployment Health Benefits

Service members returning from a deployment are required to undergo a series of post deployment

health assessments to evaluate their level of health and to identify concerns and any possible issues that

may arise. Additionally, military health care coverage for returning National Guard and Reserve service

members will expire. The following sections provide an overview of the required post deployment health

activities for returning service members and the health options service members and their families have

for continuing coverage through TRICARE or through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Also

included in this section is a description of the certificate of creditable coverage, a document that civilian

employers’ health care insurers may require when service members reinstate their health care coverage.

Post Deployment Health Activities

The PDHA and PDHRA are designed to 

anticipate, recognize, evaluate, control, and 

mitigate health threats service members may 

have encountered during their deployment. 

7 As service members prepare to redeploy from the

theater of operations to their home installation, they

will be required to undergo a comprehensive

deployment health assessment. Service members who

deployed to locations outside the continental United

States (OCONUS) for more than thirty days with non-fixed United States military treatment facilities

(MTF) are required to complete the Post Deployment Health Assessment (PDHA), face-to-face health

assessment, and the Post Deployment Health Reassessment (PDHRA) and may be required to undergo

medical referrals or follow-up visits if necessary. Service members who deployed to OCONUS locations

for thirty days or less, OCONUS deployments with fixed United States MTFs, or continental United

States (CONUS) deployments may or may not be required to complete the same steps. In these cases,

post deployment health activities are based on the health threats identified during the deployment, the

health risk assessment, and the decisions of the combatant commander, Service commander, or

commander exercising operational control.

Post Deployment Health Assessment

Service members who were required to complete Department of Defense Form (DD Form) 2795,

“Pre-Deployment Health Assessment,” are required to complete DD Form 2796, “Post Deployment

Health Assessment,” as close to the redeployment date as possible, but not earlier than thirty days before

the expected redeployment date and not later than thirty days after redeployment (or before Reserve

Component members are released from active duty). DD Form 2796 is a short survey completed in
- 173 -

Post Deployment Phase

part by the service member and in part by a health care provider that assesses the state of the service

member’s health after deployment and assists military health care providers in identifying and providing

medical care as needed.

National Guard and Reserve service members 

should complete their DD Form 2796 before 

they are released from active duty.

7 When required, the DD Form 2796 should be

completed as close to the redeployment date as possible,

preferably during demobilization, but not earlier than

thirty days before service members are scheduled to

redeploy and not later than thirty days after they redeploy. For OCONUS deployments of thirty days or

less, OCONUS deployments with fixed United States MTFs, and CONUS deployments, the authority

to require service members to complete a DD Form 2796 rests with the commander.

Face-to-face health assessment

If required to complete a DD Form 2796, service members must also be scheduled for a face-to-face

health assessment with a trained health care provider (physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner,

advanced practice nurse, independent duty corpsman, independent duty medical technician, or Special

Forces medical sergeant). The face-to-face assessment includes a discussion of the service member’s

responses to the health assessment questions on the DD Form 2796, behavioral health or psychosocial

issues commonly associated with deployments, Force Health Protection Prescription Products

(FHPPPs) taken during the deployment, and concerns about

possible environmental or occupational exposures. This face-toface assessment should be completed during in-theater medical

out-processing or within thirty days after returning to home or

the processing station.

Medical referrals and follow-up medical visits

If the health care provider indicated that a referral was required

or had additional concerns for the service member’s health, the

service member will be required to meet with a trained health

care provider for evaluation of deployment-related health issues.

Ideally, this evaluation would be conducted by the service

member’s primary care manager or team (or other authorized

provider).

National Guard and Reserve service members who require a more

detailed medical evaluation or treatment may be able to be kept

on active duty until they are fit for duty or processed through the

Disability Evaluation System. Service members can only be kept on active duty with their consent. If a

service member does ask to be kept on active duty, he or she may still request to be released from active

duty before completing the Line of Duty (LOD) medical treatment. If released from active duty before

resolution of a LOD health condition, the service member will still be entitled to receive treatment
- 174 -

Post Deployment Phase

through the military health care system. Once released from active duty and returned to the National

Guard or Reserve unit, LOD care will be coordinated with the unit of assignment.

Post Deployment Health Reassessment

Service members who completed the DD Form 2796 will be required to complete DD Form 2900, “Post

deployment Health Reassessment.” DD Form 2900 is a short survey completed in part by the service

member and in part by a health care provider that assesses the state of the service member’s health

after he or she has returned from deployment and assists military health care providers in identifying

and providing present and future medical care service members may need. After the DD Form 2900

is completed, a trained health care provider will discuss health concerns indicated on the form and

determine if additional health care referrals are required.

The DD Form 2900 will be administered to service members within 90 to 180 days after return to

the home installation. If a service member received wounds or injuries that required hospitalization or

extended treatment before returning to the home station, the reassessment will be administered 90 to

180 days following the service member’s return home. For OCONUS deployments of thirty days or less,

OCONUS deployments with fixed United States MTFs, and CONUS deployments, the authority to

require a service member to complete a DD Form 2900 rests with the commander.

TRICARE Health Care for the National Guard and Reserve 

National Guard and Reserve service members preparing for deactivation have options for how they

and their family will continue health care coverage during the transition from active duty back to the

National Guard or Reserve unit. When considering these options, it is important for service members

to understand the time frame of their eligibility for coverage under various TRICARE programs, the

TRICARE Transitional Assistance Management Program (TRICARE–TAMP), TRICARE Reserve

Select, the Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP), the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP),

and the TRICARE Pharmacy Program.

Time frame of coverage

After returning from a mobilization or deployment, 

National Guard and Reserve service members’ 

options for health care coverage through the 

military will change.

7 The time frame of health care coverage through the

military can be divided into three distinct time periods:

coverage while serving on active duty, coverage for the

first 180 days following release from active duty, and

coverage for periods after 180 days following service on active duty.

National Guard and Reserve service members were considered “active duty service members” once

activated and received active duty medical and dental benefits. During this time, family members may

have been receiving their health care coverage through a TRICARE program such as TRICARE

Standard and Extra, TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Prime Remote for Active Duty Family Members

(TPRADFM), TRICARE Prime Overseas, or TRICARE Global Remote Overseas (TGRO).
- 175 -

Post Deployment Phase

After a deployment, National Guard and Reserve service members’ eligibility to receive health care

benefits will change as they transition from an active duty status back to the National Guard or Reserve

unit. Their service on active duty ends on the date indicated in their orders. This date should match the

date listed on the DD Form 214, “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.” Once they

are no longer on active duty, National Guard and Reserve service members will not be covered by active

duty medical and dental benefits. If family members have been receiving health care through any of the

TRICARE programs for family members of active duty service members, their eligibility for coverage

under TRICARE will also be expiring on the date on which their National Guard or Reserve service

member is no longer on active duty.

Beginning the first day after service on active duty ends, National Guard and Reserve service members

and their family are eligible for coverage under the TRICARE–TAMP if they meet certain eligibility

requirements. This coverage extends from the first day following service on active duty up to 180 days

following service on active duty. On the 181st day after service on active duty, National Guard and

Reserve service members and their family will no longer be eligible to be covered by TRICARE–TAMP.

During this transitional period, National Guard and Reserve service members have the option to

purchase health care coverage under TRICARE Reserve Select, enroll in the CHCBP, or to reinstate

their health care coverage with their civilian employer. They also have the option to purchase dental

coverage for themselves and their family members under the TDP or reinstate their dental coverage

through their civilian employer. If a service member opts to purchase coverage under TRICARE Reserve

Select, coverage for the service member and his or her family will begin on the 181st day following

release from active duty.

TRICARE–TAMP

The TRICARE–TAMP provides 180 days of transitional health care 

benefits to members of the military and their families when the 

service member meets certain eligibility requirements.

7

Service members and their family members may be covered for health benefits under TRICARE–

TAMP if the service member meets any one of the following criteria:

• involuntarily separating from active duty under honorable conditions

• a National Guard or Reserve member separating from a period of active duty that was more than

thirty consecutive days in support of a contingency operation

• separating from active duty following involuntary retention (stop-loss) in support of a

contingency operation

• separating from active duty following a voluntary agreement to stay on active duty for less than one

year in support of a contingency operation
- 176 -

Post Deployment Phase

The 180-day TAMP period begins the day after the date of separation from active duty. When service

members becomes eligible for TAMP, they and their family members are automatically enrolled under

TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra. If service members reside overseas, they receive the same

coverage under TRICARE Overseas Program Standard. During coverage under TRICARE–TAMP,

service members and their families are covered as active duty family members and all rules for that

beneficiary category apply, including any applicable deductibles, cost-shares, and co-payments.

During the TAMP period, service members and their families can receive dental care through the

military dental treatment facilities on a space-available basis. However, space-available dental care is very

limited. Service members who remain in a Selected Reserve or Individual Ready Reserve status and their

families may be eligible to enroll in the TDP. More information on TRICARE–TAMP can be found on

the TRICARE-TAMP website.

TRICARE Reserve Select

TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based 

health plan that qualified National Guard and 

Reserve service members may purchase.

7 TRICARE Reserve Select requires a monthly premium

and offers coverage similar to TRICARE Standard and

Extra. TRICARE Reserve Select applies to National

Guard and Reserve service members when not on active

duty and is available for families of National Guard and Reserve service members (regardless of whether

the sponsor is on active duty). To qualify for coverage, service members must be a member of the

Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve and cannot be eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employee

Health Benefits (FEHB) program or be currently covered under FEHB, either through their eligibility

or through their spouses’ eligibility.

If qualified for the program, service members may purchase TRICARE Reserve Select after coverage

under TRICARE–TAMP ends. Service members must complete a DD Form 2896-1, “TRICARE

Reserve Select Request,” and have the form postmarked or received by the regional contractor within

sixty days of their last day of TAMP to maintain continuous TRICARE benefits. More information on

TRICARE Reserve Select can be found on the TRICARE Reserve Select website.

Continued Health Care Benefit Program

After the period of TRICARE–TAMP expires, service members and their families may apply for

temporary transitional health care coverage under the CHCBP. The CHCBP is a premium-based

health care program that offers temporary transitional health coverage (typically for eighteen or thirtysix months) after eligibility for TRICARE ends, acting as a bridge between military health benefits

and a service member’s new civilian health plan. The CHCBP provides a conversion plan similar to

TRICARE Standard and requires that eligible service members or their families enroll within sixty

days of separation from active duty or loss of eligibility under TRICARE–TAMP. To be eligible to

receive health care coverage under the CHCBP, a service member must fall under one of the following

categories of beneficiaries:
- 177 -

Post Deployment Phase

• former active duty service members released from active duty (under other than adverse conditions)

and their eligible family members (coverage is limited to eighteen months)

• un-remarried former spouses who were eligible for TRICARE on the day before the date of the final

decree of divorce, dissolution, or annulment (coverage is usually limited to thirty-six months;

however, some un-remarried former spouses may continue coverage beyond thirty-six months if they

meet certain criteria)

• children who cease to meet the requirements to be an eligible family member and were eligible for

TRICARE on the day before ceasing to meet those requirements (coverage is limited to

thirty-six months)

• certain unmarried children by adoption or legal custody (coverage is limited to thirty-six months)

More information on CHCBP can be found on the TRICARE CHCBP website.

TRICARE Dental Plan

The TDP is a voluntary dental insurance program administered by United Concordia Companies Inc.

For enrollees, the TDP covers a wide range of diagnostic, preventive, and restorative services through a

network of participating dentists or through a nonparticipating dentist at an additional cost.

Activated National Guard or Reserve service members were considered “active duty” and received dental

care through the military. During this time, family members may have been receiving their dental care

coverage through the TDP or through a separately purchased dental plan (e.g., through a continuation

of an employer’s plan). If a service member was enrolled in the TDP before the activation, he or she

will automatically be re-enrolled upon deactivation. If a service member’s family was enrolled in the

TDP during the deployment, their premiums will increase upon deactivation, as they will no longer be

considered “active duty family members.” Family members will be enrolled in the program at the higher

National Guard and Reserve family member rate. More information on the TDP can be found on the

United Concordia Companies Inc. website.

TRICARE Pharmacy Program

The TRICARE Pharmacy Program provides a pharmacy benefit through TRICARE to all eligible

uniformed service members, retirees, and family members, including beneficiaries ages sixty-five and

older.

Prescription drug coverage under the TRICARE Pharmacy Program 

is the same regardless of the beneficiary category or which health 

plan option a service member is using.

7
- 178 -

Post Deployment Phase

The TRICARE Pharmacy Program is available worldwide; however, there are some limitations to

having prescriptions filled in some overseas areas.

National Guard or Reserve service members and their families who are enrolled in TRICARE–TAMP,

TRICARE Reserve Select, or the CHCBP are eligible for the TRICARE Pharmacy Program. More

information on the TRICARE Pharmacy Program can be found on the TRICARE Pharmacy Program

website.

Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care 

for the National Guard and Reserve 

National Guard and Reserve service members 

returning from a deployment may be eligible to 

receive health care through the VA.

7 The VA provides a comprehensive medical benefits

package to all enrolled veterans that includes a full

range of preventive outpatient and inpatient services.

Once enrolled in the VA’s health care system, service

members can be seen at any of the more than 1,400 VA medical centers and clinics across the country.

Service members can identify their state Veterans Affairs office and local Veterans Service Organizations

through the VA website.

Basic eligibility for VA health care benefits

The primary factor in determining basic eligibility for VA benefits is veteran status, which is established

by active military service and a discharge or release from active duty under conditions other than

dishonorable. National Guard and Reserve service members who were called to active duty (other

than for training) may have established “veteran status” and therefore may be eligible for VA benefits.

Veterans who enlisted after September 7, 1980, or who entered active duty after October 16, 1981, must

have served twenty-four continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty

in order to be eligible for VA health care benefits. This minimum duty requirement may not apply to

veterans discharged for hardship, early out, or discharged for a disability incurred or aggravated in the

line of duty.

Priority Groups

The VA uses priority groups to balance demand for VA health care enrollment with available resources. 

During enrollment, each veteran is assigned to a priority group.

Priority Groups

Group 1 veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 50 percent or more and veterans

determined by the VA to be unemployable due to service-connected conditions

Group 2 veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 30 or 40 percent
- 179 -

Post Deployment Phase

Priority Groups

Group 3 veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 10 and 20 percent, veterans

who are former prisoners of war (POW) or were awarded a Purple Heart medal,

veterans awarded special eligibility for disabilities incurred in treatment or

participation in a VA Vocational Rehabilitation program, and veterans whose

discharge was for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty

Group 4 veterans receiving aid and attendance or housebound benefits and veterans

determined by the VA to be catastrophically disabled

Group 5 veterans receiving VA pension benefits or eligible for Medicaid programs, and

non- service-connected veterans and non-compensable, 0 percent serviceconnected veterans whose gross annual household income or net worth are below

the VA national income threshold and geographically-adjusted income threshold

for their resident area

Group 6 veterans of World War I; veterans seeking care solely for certain conditions

associated with exposure to ionizing radiation during atmospheric testing or

during the occupation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, for any illness associated with

participation in tests conducted by the Department of Defense (DoD) as part of

Project 112/Project Shipboard Hazard and Defense (SHAD), veterans with zero

percent service-connected disabilities who are receiving disability compensation

benefits, and veterans who served in a theater of combat operations after

November 11, 1998

Group 7 veterans with gross household income below the geographically-adjusted income

threshold for their resident location and who agree to pay co-pays

Group 8 veterans with gross household income or net worth above the VA national income

threshold and the geographic income threshold who agree to pay co-pays

The geographically-adjusted income thresholds are available online on the VA’s health care website.

Combat veteran eligibility for VA health care benefits

Returning service members, including National Guard and Reserve service members who served on

active duty in a theater of combat operations, have special eligibility for hospital care, medical services,

and nursing home care for five years following discharge from active duty. Under this eligibility category,

veterans who qualify are not subject to co-pays for conditions potentially related to their combat service.

However, unless otherwise exempted, combat veterans must either disclose their prior year gross

household income or decline to provide their financial information and agree to make applicable

co-pays for care or services VA determines are clearly unrelated to their military service. If eligible,

service members will be enrolled in priority group six.

(continued)
- 180 -

Post Deployment Phase

VA health care services

The VA provides a number of health care services to eligible veterans of the military. 

VA Services

• hospital, outpatient medical, dental, pharmacy, and prosthetic services

• domiciliary, nursing home, and community-based residential care

• sexual trauma counseling

• specialized health care for female veterans

• health and rehabilitation programs for homeless veterans

• readjustment counseling

• alcohol and drug dependency treatment

• medical evaluation for disorders associated with military service in the Gulf War, or exposure to

Agent Orange, radiation, and other environmental hazards

Enrolling in VA health care

To enroll in the VA health care system, service members need to submit an application for VA health

benefits using VA Form 10-10EZ, “Application for Medical Benefits.” The application form can be

found on the VA’s online portal, or by requesting a paper form to be mailed back to the VA. Service

members can request an application or get help with it by calling the VA at 1-877-222-VETS (8387)

Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm (Eastern Time).

Certificate of Creditable Coverage

A certificate of creditable coverage is a document that shows prior health care coverage. This certificate

can reduce the amount of time a health care plan can exclude a service member from coverage based on a

pre-existing health condition. For former TRICARE beneficiaries, the certificate shows a new employer

insurance company that the service member had previous TRICARE health care coverage for the period

noted on the certificate. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires

TRICARE to issue a certificate of creditable coverage if a service member loses TRICARE eligibility.

A certificate of creditable coverage may also be called a “statement 

of service,” “proof of coverage,” “evidence of coverage,” or “letter 

of creditable coverage.”

7

Demobilizing National Guard and Reserve service members will have a certificate of creditable coverage

issued by TRICARE for them and their eligible family members. If service members choose to reinstate
- 181 -

Post Deployment Phase

their health care coverage through a civilian employer, their insurance plan may require them to present a

certificate of creditable coverage.

The Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office (DSO), which manages the Defense Enrollment

Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS), issues a certificate of creditable coverage to sponsors and family

members on loss of eligibility for TRICARE. On average, service members will receive their certificate

of creditable coverage within fifteen business days. However, service members may request a certificate

in writing via mail, fax, or phone at any time. The DSO will mail them their certificate free of charge;

service members cannot email a request for a certificate.

Making Requests for Certificates

By Mail Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office

Attn: Certificate of Creditable Coverage

400 Gigling Road

Seaside, CA 93955-6771

By Fax Faxed requests can be sent to 1-831-655-8317. For written or faxed requests,

service members must include the following:

• name and Social Security number

• name of person for whom the certificate is requested (i.e., the service member

and their family)

• reason for the request

• to whom and where the certificate should be sent

• the service member’s signature

By Phone To request a certificate of creditable coverage by telephone, service members can

contact the DSO directly at 1-800-538-9552 or through 1-866-363-2883 for

teletypewriter/telecommunications device for the deaf (TTY/TDD).

Education and Training Benefits

After service is complete, service members may qualify for educational benefits through the Department

of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty

The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) provides up to thirty-six months of educational benefits for college;

technical, correspondence, or vocational courses; apprenticeship or job training; flight school; high-tech

training; licensing and certification tests; entrepreneurship training; and certain entrance examinations

for service members who have served on active duty in the past and are now no longer with the military.
- 182 -

Post Deployment Phase

Service members generally have up to ten years after completion of 

military service to use their MGIB benefits, but the time limit can be 

shorter or longer under certain circumstances.

7

Service members may be eligible for MGIB benefits if they are veteran, have an honorable discharge,

have a high school diploma or certificate of General Educational Development (GED), or in some cases,

twelve hours of college credit. To receive MGIB benefits, service members will need to complete and

submit an application for benefits through the VA. Additionally, they must meet the requirements of one

of four categories established by the VA:

Category I Service members can qualify under category I if they

• entered active duty for the first time after June 30, 1985;

• elected to have their military pay reduced by a monthly amount for the first

twelve months of active duty service; and

• continuously served on active duty for three years, or two years if that is what

the first enlistment period was, or two years if they entered the Selected Reserve

within a year of leaving active duty and served four years in the Selected Reserve.

Category II Service members can qualify under category II if they

• entered active duty before January 1, 1977;

• served at least one day between October 19, 1984 and June 30, 1985, and •

remained on active duty through June 30, 1988 (or June 30, 1987 if they entered

the Selected Reserve within one year of leaving active duty); and

• had entitlement remaining from the Vietnam-Era GI Bill on

December 31, 1989.

Category III Service members can qualify under category III if they

• are not eligible under categories I and II;

• were on active duty on September 30, 1990 and separated involuntarily after

February 2, 1991 or separated involuntarily on or after November 30, 1993, or

separated voluntarily under either the Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI) or

Special Separation Benefit (SSB) program; and

• had their military pay reduced by an amount before separation.
- 183 -

Post Deployment Phase

Category IV Service members can qualify under category IV if they

• were on active duty on October 9, 1996 and they had money remaining in a

Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP) account on that date and

elected MGIB by October 9, 1997 or they entered full-time National Guard

duty between July 1, 1985 and November 28, 1989 and elected MGIB between

October 9, 1996 and July 8, 1997; and

• had their military pay reduced by an amount for twelve months or made a lump

sum contribution.

The monthly benefit service members receive is based on the type of training they take, the length of

their service, their category, and if DoD put extra money (known as “kickers”) in their MGIB Fund. The

current monthly amount of the MGIB benefit can be found on the VA payment rates website.

Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve

The MGIB – Selected Reserve (MGIB–SR) provides similar benefits as the MGIB, but is targeted

towards members of the Selected Reserve. The MGIB-SR provides up to thirty-six months of

educational benefits for degree programs; certificate or correspondence courses; cooperative training;

independent study programs; apprenticeship/on-the-job training; vocational flight training programs;

and, under certain circumstances, remedial, refresher, and deficiency training.

The amount of time a service member has to use the MGIB-SR benefits depends on when his or her

eligibility for this program began. If eligibility began on or after October 1, 1992, a service member has

fourteen years from the beginning date of eligibility or up until the day they leave the Selected Reserve

to use their benefit. If eligibility began before October 1, 1992, a service member has ten years from

their beginning date of eligibility or up to the day they leave the Selected Reserve to use the benefit. If

a service member is mobilized or recalled to active duty from Reserve status, his or her eligibility may

be extended for the amount of the time in which he or she is mobilized plus four additional months. In

situations such as this, eligibility for MGIB–SR can be extended past a service member’s departure date

from the Selected Reserve.

To receive MGIB–SR benefits, a service member needs to apply 

through the VA after becoming eligible.

7

Specific eligibility requirements for the MGIB–SR are determined by individual Selected Reserve

components, but generally, service members must meet requirements set forth by the VA. To qualify for

MGIB–SR, service members must

• have had a six-year obligation to serve in the Selected Reserve signed after June 30, 1985 (Officers
- 184 -

Post Deployment Phase

must have agreed to serve six years in addition to the original obligation. For some types of training

it is necessary to have a six-year commitment that begins after September 30, 1990);

• completed initial active duty for training (IADT);

• met the requirement to receive a high school diploma or equivalency certificate before completing

IADT; and remained in good standing while serving in an active Selected Reserve unit.

The monthly benefit service members receive is based on the type of education or training (institutional

or an apprenticeship/on-the-job training), whether they are a full-time or part-time student, and how far

they have progressed through an apprenticeship. The current monthly amount of the MGIB–SR benefit

can be found on the VA payment rates website.

Reserve Educational Assistance Program

Established by the 2005 National Defense Authorization Act,

the Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) provides

educational assistance to members of the National Guard and

Reserve who are called or ordered to active duty in response to

a war or national emergency. As with the MGIB, the program

provides educational assistance for institutional training,

correspondence training, flight training, apprenticeship training,

and cooperative training. Generally, if a service member meets

the requirements for the REAP benefit, he or she may use his or

her benefit for up to ten years after he or she separates from the

Selected Reserve.

Each branch of Service determines the specific eligibility

requirements for the REAP. Generally, to qualify for the REAP,

a service member must be a member of the National Guard or

Reserve who was called or ordered to active duty in response to a

war or national emergency for a period of more than ninety days.

The monthly benefit a service member receives from the REAP is paid as a percentage of the MGIB

rate and increases based on the number of days a service member spent on active duty. If they spent

more than ninety days, but less than a year on active duty, service members are entitled to 40 percent of

the active duty MGIB rate. If they serve more than a year, but less than two years on active duty, service

members are entitled to a monthly benefit of 60 percent of the active duty MGIB rate. If they mobilized

for at least two consecutive years of active duty or served in multiple mobilizations totaling at least three

years, service members are entitled to 80 percent of the monthly active duty MGIB rate. Under the

REAP, service members receive thirty-six months of full-time entitlement at their given rate, but cannot

use more than forty-eight total months of entitlement under any combination of VA educational programs.

The current monthly amount of the REAP benefit can be found on the VA payment rates website.
- 185 -

Post Deployment Phase

Veterans Educational Assistance Program

Service members meeting certain eligibility requirements may qualify for the VEAP. The government

matches contributions to the account at a rate of two dollars for every one dollar a service member

contributed. This benefit can be used for a degree, certificate, correspondence, apprenticeship/on-the-job

training program, or vocational flight training programs. Eligible service members have ten years from

their release from active duty to use their VEAP benefits. Any unused portion of the entitlement after

the ten year period will be automatically refunded to the service member.

To be eligible for the VEAP benefit, a service member must have entered service for the first time

between January 1, 1977 and June 30, 1985, opened a contribution account before April 1, 1987,

voluntarily contributed anywhere from $25 to $2,700, completed his or her first period of service, and

been discharged or released from service under conditions other than dishonorable. Service members

meeting the eligibility requirements need to ensure that their selected education or training program is

approved and apply for the benefit through the VA.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program

The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA) provides education and

training opportunities to eligible dependents of certain veterans. Through DEA, eligible dependents

may receive up to forty-five months of education benefits for use in pursuing degree programs, certificate

programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training. Spouses also may enroll in correspondence courses

and, in certain instances, all eligible dependents may enroll in remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses.

Eligible children are generally allowed to receive the benefit when they are between the ages of eighteen

and twenty-six. Benefits for eligible spouses end ten years from the date the VA determines them eligible

or the date of the service member’s death, unless the service member dies while on active duty, which

extends the period of eligibility for their spouse to twenty years.

Eligible beneficiaries of the DEA benefit include spouses and children of service members who meet

one of the following criteria:

• die or are permanently and totally disabled as a result of a service-connected disability

• die from any cause while such service-connected disability was in existence

• are missing in action or captured in the line of duty by a hostile force

• are forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government or power

• are hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service-connected permanent and total

disability and are likely to be discharged for that disability
- 186 -

Post Deployment Phase

To receive the DEA benefit, family members need to ensure that 

their selected education or training program is approved and apply 

for the benefit through the VA.

7

Post-9/11 GI Bill

The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides increased educational benefits for service members pursuing training on

or after August 1, 2009. The benefit provides up to thirty-six months of financial assistance. Approved

training under the Post-9/11 GI Bill includes graduate and undergraduate degrees, and vocational

or technical training. All training programs must be offered by an institution of higher learning and

approved for GI Bill benefits. Upon completion of eligible military service, service members have fifteen

years to use the benefit.

To be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, service members must meet one of the following criteria:

• served at least thirty days of consecutive active duty service after September 10, 2001 and be

discharged due to a service-connected disability

• served an aggregate of ninety days of active duty service after September 10, 2001 and be

honorably discharged

• been released from the military with service characterized as honorable and placed on the retired list,

temporary disability retired list, or transferred to the Fleet Reserve or the Fleet Marine

Corps Reserve

• been discharged or released from the military for an injury that existed prior to service (EPTS),

hardship (HDSP), or because a condition interfered with duty (CIWD)

• remained on active duty

Depending on the length of active duty service, service members or their school will receive a percentage

of the amount of tuition and fees charged, the monthly housing allowance, an annual stipend for books

and supplies, and a one-time lump-sum payment in instances where the service member is relocating

to highly rural areas. If the service member is a member of the military on August 1, 2009, he or she

may be able to transfer the benefits to his or her spouse or dependent children. Service members are

encouraged to check with their individual branch of Service to determine if they are able to transfer their

benefits.

Wounded Warrior Benefits

Service members who have become disabled as a result of an injury or illness incurred while on active

duty may be eligible to receive additional financial and medical benefits through the military. Some

of these benefits are automatic, while others require that the service member apply for them. Because

of this, it is important for service members and their families to be aware of support services available
- 187 -

Post Deployment Phase

through each of the branches of Service; the various financial benefits available from the Department

of Defense (DoD), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the Social Security Administration

(SSA); and the additional medical benefits.

Support Programs for Injured Service Members

The Wounded Warrior Resource Center (WWRC) provides wounded, ill, or injured service members,

their immediate families, and primary caregivers with a single point of contact to report deficiencies in

covered military facilities, problems obtaining health care services or receiving benefits information, and

any other difficulties encountered. The WWRC may be accessed by calling Military OneSource (1-800-

342-9647), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

The Army Wounded Warrior Program provides personalized recovery services for severely injured

Soldiers throughout their lifetimes, wherever they are located. The Army Wounded Warrior program

educates Soldiers on their options to remain in the Army and the application process if they choose to

do so. It also provides assistance defining future career plans beyond the Army, obtaining VA benefits,

obtaining health care for Soldiers and their families after retiring from the Army, accessing financial

counseling, and ensuring that severely injured Soldiers receive all of the awards they have earned.

The Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment provides and facilitates assistance to combat and noncombat wounded, ill, or injured Marines and Sailors attached to or in support of Marine units and

their family members in order to assist them as they return to active duty or transition to civilian life. The

Regimental Headquarters element, located in Quantico, Virginia, provides unity of command and unity of

effort with a strategic reach that serves the total force: active duty, Reserve, retired, and veteran Marines.

Depending on the geographic location of the wounded, ill, or injured service member, services are

provided through the Wounded Warrior Battalion East, headquartered at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina,

or the Wounded Warrior Battalion West, headquartered at Camp Pendleton, California. Wounded, ill,

and/or injured Marines and their families may contact the Sergeant Merlin German Wounded Warrior

Call Center for advice or support on many issues, including Service members’ Group Life Insurance

Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI), financial planning, GI Bill, employment and education

support, psychological health concerns, counseling support, and other benefits and entitlements.

The Navy Safe Harbor–Severely Injured Support Program provides personalized support and assistance

to injured Sailors and their families by providing educational information on injuries, assistance with

home accommodations, transportation accommodations, workplace accommodations, education and

job training, personal and family counseling, child care information, and information and assistance for

financial and benefit issues.

The Air Force Wounded Warrior Program provides support for Airmen that have a combat or hostilerelated injury or illness requiring long-term care. The program works hand-in-hand with the Air

Force Survivor Assistance Program and Airman and Family Readiness Centers to ensure Airmen receive

professional support and care from the point of injury to no less than five years after separation or retirement.
- 188 -

Post Deployment Phase

Financial Benefits for Injured Service Members

Service members who incurred or aggravated an injury or illness while on active duty may be entitled to

receive various financial benefits from the DoD, the VA, and the SSA.

Service members may become eligible for some benefits while they 

are still on active duty; other benefits may be payable only if they 

are forced into retirement as a result of injury or illness.

7

Pay allowance continuation 

Pay allowance continuation (PAC) is a special pay for service members during a portion of their

rehabilitation time from wounds, injuries, and illness incurred in a combat operation or combat zone.

Service members may be eligible for PAC if they are medically evacuated as an inpatient in a military

treatment facility (MTF) or an outpatient and assigned or attached to a medical or patient unit (such

as a Warrior Transition Unit (WTU) for the Army or a Warrior Regiment Unit for the Marine Corps).

Service members will not be eligible for PAC if a wound, injury, or illness is due to their own intentional

misconduct or willful negligence, or during a period of absence without leave (AWOL).

PAC is a special pay intended to allow injured service members to receive continued combat pay during

a portion of their rehabilitation process. Some special pays received in the combat zone cease when

hospitalized or placed on permanent change of station (PCS) reassignment. This entitlement allows

service members the opportunity to adjust to the future reduction of pay benefits to which they were

entitled in the combat zone prior to being evacuated for medical treatment.

PAC terminates at the end of the first month during which a service member is

• no longer assigned or attached to a medical or patient unit for medical treatment or

• discharged, separated, released from active duty (REFRAD), or retired from service (including

permanent/temporary disability retirement).

More information on the PAC special pay can be found through the Defense Financial Accounting

Service (DFAS) Wounded Warrior Pay website.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection 

The Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) program provides

automatic traumatic injury coverage to all members of the uniformed services covered under

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI). When covered by SGLI, the TSGLI automatically

provides coverage for service members against traumatic injury. The amount of the benefit received

varies depending on the severity of the injury.
- 189 -

Post Deployment Phase

Traumatic Injury Protection

TSGLI covers a range of traumatic injuries that are defined in VA regulations including 

the following:

• total and permanent loss of sight in one or both eyes

• loss of hand or foot by severance at or above the wrist or ankle

• total and permanent loss of hearing in one or both ears

• loss of thumb and index finger of the same hand by severance at or above the

metacarpophalangeal joints

• quadriplegia, paraplegia, or hemiplegia

• third degree or worse burns covering 30 percent of the body or 30 percent of the face

• coma or the inability to carry out two of the six activities of daily living due to traumatic

brain injury

To receive benefits under TSGLI, a service member will be required to complete the SGLV 8600

application and submit it to the Office of SGLI (OSGLI). More information on TSGLI, including

current benefit amounts and premiums, can be found on the VA TSGLI website.

Department of Veterans Affairs Schedule for Rating Disabilities 

The VA Schedule for Rating Disability (VASRD) is used by the VA as part of the process of

adjudicating disability claims. It is a guide for evaluating the severity of disabilities resulting from all

types of diseases and injuries encountered as a result of, or incident to, military service. This degree of

severity is expressed as a percentage rating, which determines the amount of monthly compensation.

The VA uses the VASRD to rate service-connected disability of veterans for loss of civilian

employability. The individual branches of Service, on the other hand, use the VASRD to evaluate

whether a service member is fit to reasonably perform the duties of his or her office, grade, rank, or

rating. While both the VA and the branches of Service use the VASRD, not all of the general policy

provisions set forth in the VASRD apply to the Services. Consequently, disability ratings may vary

between the VA and the Services.

The Services rate only conditions determined to be physically unfitting, compensating for loss of a

career. The VA may rate any service-connected impairment, thus compensating for loss of civilian

employability. The Service’s ratings are permanent upon final disposition, while VA ratings may fluctuate

with time, depending upon the progress of the condition. Also, the Service’s disability compensation

is affected by years of service and basic pay, while VA compensation is a flat amount based upon the

percentage rating received. This rating is determined based on the disabling condition and its severity

and can range from 0 to 100 percent, rising in increments of 10 percent.
- 190 -

Post Deployment Phase

DoD disability retired pay

The DoD compensates service members who are retired from service because of a physical disability.

Service members who have been found to be physically unfit to perform their duties due to a disability

incurred while entitled to receive basic pay (e.g., while deployed) may be entitled to qualify for disability

retirement. To be eligible for a disability retirement, a service member must meet the following three

requirements:

• The service member’s disability is of a permanent nature and stable (for permanent disability

retirement) or is determined not to be of a permanent nature and stable (for temporary

disability retirement).

• The service member’s disability is not the result of intentional misconduct or willful neglect, and was

not incurred during a period of unauthorized absence.

• The service member had completed at least twenty years of service, or his or her disability is at

least 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the VA at the time of

the determination.

If a service member is retired for disability, he or she is entitled to all the rights and privileges of any

other military retiree. This includes entitlement to a military retired identification card (ID card) that

authorizes medical care, post exchange (PX) and commissary shopping privileges, and the use of morale,

welfare, and recreation (MWR) facilities (on a space-available basis). More information on the DoD

disability retired pay can be found on the DFAS disability retirement pay website.

Disability severance pay

If a service member is injured while on duty and is not eligible for DoD disability retirement pay, he

or she may be eligible to receive disability severance pay. To be eligible for a disability severance pay, a

service member must meet all of the following requirements:

• the service member’s disability is of a permanent nature and stable

• the service member’s disability is not the result of intentional misconduct or willful neglect, and was

not incurred during a period of unauthorized absence

• the service member had completed less than twenty years of service and their disability is less

than 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the VA at the time of

the determination

Generally, the amount of disability severance pay is calculated as the number of years of active service

multiplied by twice the amount of monthly basic pay to which the service member would be entitled

if serving on active duty. However, there are minimum and maximum amounts for the years of active

service. Whatever the actual number of years of service, the number of years of service used for the

calculation is at least six years in the case of a service member separated for a disability incurred in the

line of duty in a combat zone or incurred during the performance of duty in combat-related operations;

for all other cases, the years of service used for the calculation will be at least three years. For example,
- 191 -

Post Deployment Phase

a member with two years of service who incurred a disability in line of duty in a combat zone would

have the calculation based on six years of service. The maximum number of years that can be used in the

calculation is nineteen years of service. More information on the DoD disability severance pay can be

found on the DFAS disability severance pay website.

Effect of VA disability compensation on military retired pay

As a result of the deployment, a service member may become medically retired and begin drawing retired

pay from the military. The law requires that military retired pay, whether regular, reserve, or disability, be

offset by any VA disability compensation. In certain cases, this offset may be replaced or restored under

combat-related special compensation (CRSC) or concurrent

retirement and disability pay (CRDP). Both CRSC and CRDP

have provisions that restrict the replaced or restored retired pay to

that which was earned for years of service.

Combat–related special compensation 

CRSC provides military retirees a monthly compensation

that is intended to replace some or all of the retired pay that is

withheld due to receipt of VA compensation. CRSC is payable

for disabilities that are found to be related to combat, including

disabilities that were incurred in actual combat, while engaged

in hazardous service, in the performance of duty simulating

war, training for combat, or as a result of an instrumentality

of war. The amount of CRSC payable is directly related to the

evaluations assigned to combat-related disabilities, but cannot

exceed the amount of withheld retired pay.

To receive CRSC, a service member must apply for the benefit, be retired and receiving retired pay, have

at least a 10 percent VA disability rating, and have at least one combat-related disability as determine

by their Service CRSC board. More information on the CRSC benefit can be found on the DFAS

disability pay website or by telephone at 1-877-327-4457. Questions concerning disability ratings or

payments due from the VA should be directed to the VA at 1-800-827-1000.

Concurrent retirement and disability pay 

CRDP restores the retired pay currently deducted from retirees’ accounts due to the receipt of VA

disability compensation. CRDP is the gradual (phased in) restoration of the retired pay currently being

offset by VA disability pay. Under the current law, retirees who are entitled to CRDP will receive both

full military retired pay and full VA disability pay with no reduction (i.e., concurrent receipt) by 2014.

There is no application required to receive the CRDP; eligible service members will receive the benefit

automatically. To be eligible for the benefit, the service member must be retired with twenty years of

service (fifteen years if retired under temporary early retirement authority [TERA] provisions) in active
- 192 -

Post Deployment Phase

or reserve duty, be receiving retired pay that is offset by VA payments, and must have at least a 50

percent VA disability rating. If the service member is a National Guard or Reserve service member, he or

she must also be of retirement age, usually age sixty.

Retirees cannot receive benefits simultaneously under both CRSC and concurrent retirement and

disability payments programs. DFAS determines the most advantageous payment for retirees who

qualify for both; however, retirees are offered an annual open season (usually in December or January) to

change their payment from the automatic default if desired.

More information on the CRDP benefit can be found on the DFAS disability pay website, or by calling

1-877-327-4457. Questions concerning disability ratings or payments due from the VA should be

directed to the VA at 1-800-827-1000.

VA disability compensation

Service members who incurred injuries or diseases during their service on active duty, or had injuries

that were made worse by their active military service may be eligible to receive disability compensation

from the VA. Disability compensation is a tax-free benefit paid to veterans, who were discharged under

other than dishonorable conditions, with service-related disabilities. The amount of the benefit varies

depending on the severity of disability and whether the service member has dependents. Current

amounts of the benefit can be found on the VA current rates website.

Service members will not receive VA disability compensation benefits automatically; they need to apply

to receive the benefit. Service members can apply by filling out VA Form 21-526, “Veterans Application

for Compensation and/or Pension.” When completing an application, service members need to include

a copy of their discharge papers, dependency records (e.g., marriage and children’s birth certificates), and

medical evidence of the disability (doctor or hospital report).

Special monthly compensation for serious disabilities

Service members who incurred the loss, or loss of use, of specific organs or extremities as a result of

military service may also be eligible to receive additional compensation from the VA under special

monthly compensation (SMC) for serious disabilities. For the purposes of the SMC, the VA considers

“loss, or loss of use” as either an amputation or having no effective remaining function of an extremity

or organ.
- 193 -

Post Deployment Phase

Special Monthly Compensation Considerations

The disabilities that the VA considers for SMC include the following:

• the loss, or loss of use, of a hand or foot

• immobility of a joint or paralysis

• loss of sight in an eye (having only light perception)

• loss, or loss of use, of a reproductive organ

• complete loss, or loss of use, of both buttocks

• deafness of both ears (having absence of air and bone conduction)

• inability to communicate by speech (complete organic aphonia)

• loss of a percentage of tissue from a single breast, or both breasts, from mastectomy or

radiation treatment

The VA will pay higher rates for combinations of these disabilities such as loss or loss of use of the

feet, legs, hands, and arms, in specific monetary increments, based on the particular combination of the

disabilities. There are also higher payments for various combinations of severe deafness with bilateral

blindness.

To apply for SMC, a service member should contact the local VA regional office for information. The

VA will then review the medical evidence regarding the loss or loss of use and then make a decision

regarding the level of SMC to be paid.

Disability benefits from the SSA

Service members who have become disabled as a result of their military service can also become eligible

to receive disability benefits through the SSA. As a member of the military, a service member can also

receive expedited processing of their SSA disability claims. The benefits available through the SSA are

different than those from the VA and require a separate application.

The SSA pays disability benefits through two programs: the Social Security Disability Insurance

(SSDI) program, which pays benefits to service members and certain members of their families if they

are “insured” (meaning that they have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes); and the

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which pays benefits based on financial need.

The SSA’s definition of disability is stricter than the VA’s and DoD’s definition. To be found disabled

by the SSA, a service member must be unable to do substantial work because of his or her medical

conditions, and his or her medical conditions must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least one year or

be expected to result in death.
- 194 -

Post Deployment Phase

Service members may apply for disability benefits at any time while in military status or after discharge,

whether they are still hospitalized, in a rehabilitation program, or undergoing out-patient treatment

in a military or civilian medical facility. Service members may apply online at the SSA’s Disability

Benefits for Wounded Warrior website, in person at the nearest Social Security office, or by scheduling

an appointment by telephone at 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (teletypewriter [TTY]). When

applying for SSA disability benefits, service members must provide information and documentation

about their age, employment, proof of citizenship, Social Security coverage, and information regarding

all impairments and related treatment.

Documentation for SSA Disability Benefits

• an original or certified copy of a birth certificate or proof of United States citizenship or legal

residency if foreign born

• Department of Defense Form (DD Form) 214, “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active

Duty,” if discharged from the military service

• W-2 Form or income tax return from last year

• military or workers’ compensation including proof of payment

• Social Security numbers of the service member’s spouse and minor children

• checking or savings account number, if the service member has one

• name, address, and phone number of a contact person, in case the service member is unavailable

• medical records that the service member has or can easily obtain from all military and

civilian sources

More information on the disability benefits provided by the SSA Wounded Warrior can be found on the

SSA’s Disability Benefits for Wounded Warrior website.

Medical Benefits for Injured Service Members

Service members who incurred or aggravated an injury or illness while on active duty may be entitled to

receive various medical benefits from the DoD and the VA. 

Medical benefits through TRICARE

Injured active duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve service members injured in

the line of duty, are eligible for comprehensive health care services beyond basic TRICARE coverage.

Service members pay nothing out of pocket for these services and there is no benefit cap.
- 195 -

Post Deployment Phase

The special benefits for injured active duty service members are similar to those available to active duty

family members under the TRICARE Extended Care Health Option (ECHO), but unlike TRICARE

ECHO, active duty service members are not required to enroll to receive these benefits.

TRICARE Medical Benefits for Injured Service Members

• diagnosis

• inpatient, outpatient, and comprehensive home health care supplies and services

• training, rehabilitation, special education, and assistive technology devices

• institutional care in private nonprofit, public, and state institutions and facilities and

transportation to and from such institutions and facilities (when appropriate)

• custodial care in conjunction with authorized home health services

• respite care for the primary caregiver (of the injured service member)

Medical benefits through the VA

The VA provides a standard enhanced health benefits plan available to all enrolled veterans. This plan

emphasizes preventive and primary care, and offers a full range of outpatient and inpatient services

within the VA health care system.

There is no monthly premium required to use VA care, however veterans may have to agree to make

co-payments. If a veteran has health insurance, it may cover the cost of the co-payment. The VA will

provide combat veterans free medical care for any illness possibly associated with service during a period

of hostility for two years from the veteran’s release from active duty.

Service members who are 50 percent disabled or more from service-connected conditions, unemployable

due to service-connected conditions, or receiving care for a service-connected disability will receive

priority in scheduling of hospital or outpatient medical appointments.

To enroll in the VA health care system, service members need to submit an application for VA health

benefits using VA Form 10-10EZ, “Application for Medical Benefits.” The application form can be

found on the VA’s 10-10EZ online portal, or by requesting a paper form to be mailed back to the VA.

Service members can request an application or get help with it by calling VA at 1-877-222-VETS

(8387) Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 8:00 pm (Eastern Time).
- 196 -

Post Deployment Phase

Survivor Benefits

If service members die as a result of injury or illness incurred or aggravated during their deployment,

their survivors may be entitled to benefits from the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department

of Veterans Affairs (VA). Some of these benefits are automatic, while others require that survivors

apply for them.

Casualty Assistance offices will provide further assistance to family 

members in completing the required documentation and will assist 

them with any other questions they may have.

7

Casualty Assistance Offices

In the event of a service member’s death, the main source of casualty information and assistance to the

family will be from the Casualty Assistance Office. Casualty Assistance Officers (or Casualty Assistance

Call Officers, Casualty Assistance Representatives, or Decedent Affairs Officers, depending on the

branch of Service) provide one-on-one information to service members and their families to ensure

that all administrative requirements (e.g., required paperwork) are completed and that service members

and their families are aware of the benefits to which they are entitled. The Casualty Assistance Office

can also help individuals apply for benefits. More information on the services provided by the Casualty

Assistance Offices can be found through the individual branches of Service’s websites.

Casualty Assistance Offices

Army Casualty Marine Corps

Casualty Assistance

Navy Casualty

Assistance Division

Air Force Casualty

Services

Burial Benefits

The DoD and the VA both offer benefits and services to family members to aid in a service member’s

funeral and burial. The DoD provides for the transport and interment of a service member’s remains

and authorizes travel entitlements for surviving spouses, children, and parents including the parents of

the spouse, siblings of the deceased member, and the person authorized to direct disposition (PADD).

The travel entitlement includes round trip transportation and two days of per diem at the interment site.

There are a number of additional services provided by the individual branches of Service and the VA.

Burial and plot-interment allowance

The person the service member identified to direct the disposition of his or her remains, or the PADD,

on their Record of Emergency Data Form (DD Form 93) will determine where the burial will take

place. The military Service will provide all the necessary assistance to satisfy the PADD’s decision on

burial location including burial in a national, state, private, or public cemetery. Burial allowances or

reimbursable expenses are determined based on the options selected by the PADD. Before making any
- 197 -

Post Deployment Phase

financial commitments, the family or the PADD should verify with the casualty assistance officer or

mortuary affairs officer if the expense is reimbursable. The casualty or mortuary affairs officer will assist

with the completion of the necessary claims forms. 

Burial in a national cemetery

For service members and their families who choose burial in a national cemetery with available space,

the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) will provide the opening and closing of the grave,

perpetual care for the gravesite, a government headstone or marker, a burial flag (provided by the DoD if

the member died while on active duty), and a PMC at no cost to the family. More information on burial

benefits can be found on the VA Burial and Memorials website.

Burial in a private cemetery

For service members and their families who choose burial in a private cemetery, the VA will provide a

government-furnished headstone or marker and Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) at no cost

if the family requests. DoD will provide the flag if the member died while on active duty. Spouses and

dependents will not be eligible to receive any burial benefits for themselves if the service member is

buried in a private cemetery.

Military funeral honors

Provided by the DoD, military funeral honors provide a final “thank you” to active duty fatalities and

veterans who have defended the nation. Military funeral honors consist of, at a minimum, ceremonial

folding and presenting of the American flag and the

sounding of Taps. Additional elements, such as a

firing party or color guard, may also be included in the

ceremony. More information on military funeral honors

can be found on the Military Funeral Honors website.

Burial flags

Burial flags are United States flags provided at no cost

that drape a service member’s casket or urn to honor

the memory of his or her service. If the service member

dies on active duty, the spouse, children, parents of the

member, and the PADD will receive a flag from the

DoD. More information on VA-provided burial flags

can be found on the VA Burial and Memorials website.

Government-furnished headstones and markers

The VA, upon request, will furnish at no charge a government headstone or marker for service members’

graves in any cemetery around the world. The VA will also potentially furnish headstones and markers

for the spouse and dependents (if eligible) of service members in a national, military installation, or state
- 198 -

Post Deployment Phase

veterans cemetery. If a service member has chosen columbarium inurnment, government-furnished niche

markers are also available.

Presidential Memorial Certificate

The PMC is a gold-embossed paper certificate, provided by the VA and signed by the President of the

United States to honor the memory of honorably-discharged veterans. The PMC is available to a service

member’s next-of-kin and loved ones when they apply through the VA.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is a low-cost term life insurance protection policy

offered through the VA for service members on active duty, members of the Ready Reserve, and

members of the National Guard. SGLI automatically covers service members for the maximum unless

coverage is declined or elected at a lower amount. To receive benefits under SGLI, the family members

will be required to submit a claim to the Office of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (OSGLI).

More information on SGLI, including coverage amounts and premium costs, can be found on the VA

SGLI website.

Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance

Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI) automatically provides life insurance coverage

to spouses and dependent children when the service member is covered by SGLI unless the service

member declined the coverage in writing. If declined or reduced, family members can have the

entitlement reinstated or increased at a later date. The spouse must be in good health at the time of the

change in coverage. Coverage amounts for FSGLI cannot exceed the coverage amount selected for the

service member under SGLI. More information on FSGLI, including current coverage amounts and

premiums, can be found on the VA FSGLI website.

The Uniformed Services Survivor Benefit Plan

Administered by the Defense Finance Accounting Service (DFAS), the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)

allows family members to continue to receive a portion of their service members’ retired pay after their

death, even if service members die while on active duty. Retirees are automatically enrolled in the

program at no cost, but their retired pay will be reduced so family members can continue to receive a

portion of the retiree’s pay after the retiree’s death. The amount of the benefit depends on the amount of

retired pay that the service member selected on which to base SBP participation. More information on

the SBP can be found on the DFAS SBP website.

Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan

Similar to the SBP, the Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) is an annuity paid to

surviving spouses and, in some instances, dependent children of National Guard and Reserve service

members who elected to enroll in the program and completed the satisfactory years of service qualifying
- 199 -

Post Deployment Phase

them for retirement pay. As with the SBP, surviving spouses and dependent children can receive a

portion the elected retirement pay, but for the RCSBP, the Reserve Portion Cost reduces the amount

of the benefit to spouses and children. More information on the RCSBP can be found on the DFAS

RCSBP website.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

Benefits from DIC are not automatic; to receive 

benefits, family members must apply through 

the VA.

7 The Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

is a monthly tax-free benefit paid to eligible survivors of

a service member who died on active duty, veterans who

died from service-related disabilities, and certain

veterans who were being paid 100 percent VA disability compensation at the time of death. Surviving

spouses and dependent children of deceased service members may be entitled to benefits through DIC.

The amount of the benefit varies depending on the date of the service member’s death (before or after

January 1, 1993), the member’s rank, whether the survivors are entitled to additional allowances such as

Aid and Attendance (A&A), Housebound (HB), etc., and the number of dependent children. More

information on the DIC benefit can be found on the VA Survivor’s Benefits website. Current rates for

the DIC benefit are also provided through the VA compensation payment rates website.

Parents Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

Parents who are dependent on a veteran with a service-connected disability or whose child died

in service or from a service-connected disability may be entitled as dependents on the veterans’

compensation award or to DIC if they are in financial need. Parents may be biological, step, adopted,

or in loco parentis. Benefits for Parents DIC are also not automatic; if parents believe they qualify for

the benefit, they have to apply through the VA. The amount of the benefit varies depending on the

classification category for the parent (sole surviving parent not living with a spouse, one of two parents

not living with a spouse, or one of two parents living with a spouse or other parent). More information

on the Parents DIC benefit can be found on the VA Survivor’s Benefits website. Current rates for the

Parents DIC benefit are also provided through the VA compensation payment rates website.

Death Pension

Benefits from the Death Pension are not 

automatic; to receive benefits, family members 

must apply through the VA.

7 The Death Pension is a benefit payable to eligible

surviving spouses and children of deceased wartime

veterans based on financial need. Survivors of deceased

service members may be eligible to receive the death

pension if the veteran had wartime service and his or her death was not due to service. If surviving

family members are determined to be eligible for the Death Pension and the DIC, the VA will pay

whichever benefit entitles the family to the most money. Surviving family members cannot collect both

DIC and the Death Pension. The amount of the benefit depends on the income level of the surviving

spouse or child. If the spouse is below the income level established by the VA, the VA will pay the

difference between the established limit and the surviving spouse’s or child’s income. More information
- 200 -

Post Deployment Phase

on the Death Pension benefit can be found on VA Death Pension website. Current rates for the Death

Pension benefit are also provided through the VA compensation payment rates website.

Death Gratuity

Death Gratuity is a lump-sum payment provided by the DoD to the survivors or other individuals

identified by the service member prior to his or her death while on active duty, active duty for training,

inactive duty for training, or within 120 days of release from active duty due to a service-related

disability.

The service member may designate one or more persons to receive a portion of the death gratuity

benefit, but the amount payable to the designated beneficiaries must be in 10 percent increments.

Service member elections are reflected on the Record of Emergency Data form. If the service member

does not designate anyone to receive the benefit, then the benefit will be paid in full to the first person

in the following order of precedence: surviving spouse; surviving children (in equal shares if there is

no surviving spouse); surviving parents; the duly-appointed executor or administrator of the service

member’s estate; and other next-of-kin. More information on Death Gratuity, including detailed

eligibility requirements and payment amounts, can be found in Chapter 36, Volume 7A, DoD Financial

Management Regulation.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program

The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) is a VA program providing education

and training opportunities to eligible spouses and children of certain veterans who die while on active

duty or of a service-connected disability, are missing in action, forcibly detained by a foreign government,

or become permanently and totally disabled as a result of their service. To receive the DEA benefit,

surviving family members need to enroll in a VA-approved education or training program and apply

through the VA. More information of the DEA program can be found on the VA’s DEA website.
M I L I T A R Y

Deployment Guide

Reintegrating to Normal Life........................................................................................................ 202

Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention................................................................................... 233

Reintegration Phase
- 202 -

Military Deployment Guide

Reintegration Phase

This section of the guide is intended to help service members and their families navigate the challenges

of, and serve as a resource during, service members’ reintegration following a deployment. The

information presented in this section of the guide applies to returning active duty service members

from all branches of Service, National Guard service members, Reserve service members, and all family

members (spouses, children, and parents) of active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members

who have completed a deployment.

Reintegrating to Normal Life

After the homecoming and the excitement of the reunion is over, service members begin reintegrating

back into their normal lives and adjusting to their lives after deployment.

Understanding what to expect during reintegration can help service 

members and their families be better prepared to handle challenges 

that may arise.

7

Reintegration and Adjustment for Service Members

Service members returning from deployment face many challenges when reintegrating back into normal

life. All service members (whether active duty, National Guard, or Reserve) may encounter many of the

same issues.

What to Expect for Service Members

As service members prepare to adjust to life following a deployment, they should understand that some

things have changed and that they will have to adapt. Their family members will also be learning how

to cope with changes. If the family knows what to expect, they can help each other to better meet and

overcome any challenges they may face.

Service members have changed

While service members have been away on deployment, they have changed in subtle ways. They

have been in a different world, stretched their comfort zones, learned new skills, made new friends,
- 203 -

Reintegration Phase

and functioned in living and working environments that may be very different from anything they

had previously experienced. As a result, they may be very different from who they were prior to the

deployment.

Surroundings have changed

Service members may experience a bit of culture shock as they settle back into their normal life. Things

that seemed very familiar may now seem very foreign. Service members’ homes may be decorated

differently or their hometown may have changed. These changes in their physical surroundings can take

some getting used to and may make them feel out of place at first.

Families and friends have changed

Service members’ friends and family may look different. Children will almost certainly have changed

physically and, possibly, developmentally. If married, spouses may have also experienced emotional and

personal changes as well, especially as they may relate to school and work. They may have become more

independent and may be more confident in their ability to cope with whatever challenges they face.

Households may have changed

Everyone at home has become more independent as they have

taken on new responsibilities, made their own decisions, and set

their own schedules and routines. Because of this, new roles and

new rules may have been established out of necessity. Some of

these were temporary changes to the old rules to compensate for a

service member’s absence, while others arose because the family’s

needs changed.

Intimacy with spouses may take time to reestablish

It may take some time to reestablish intimacy with spouses.

Although sex can resume immediately, intimacy with a spouse

may require that the spouse and service member become

reacquainted. Intimacy is more about how a service member

and his or her spouse felt about one another, the closeness they

felt prior to the separation and the reestablishment of their

connection.

Arguments may arise

There may be some friction in the household now that the service member has returned home and

begun reintegrating back into his or her family. Arguments may come up because of finances, spousal

roles in the household, and child-related issues.
- 204 -

Reintegration Phase

Service members may feel like they need space

Service members and their spouses have been operating independently for the course of the deployment.

During this time, both have been used to doing what they wanted during their personal time. It is

normal for returning service members and their spouses to feel like they need some space during the

reintegration.

Service members may find it difficult not being with fellow service members

Service members have functioned in living and working environments that may be very different than

anything they had previously experienced. In those environments, service members made new friends

and have lived and worked very closely with those people for many months. Service members will now

be living without those people in their daily lives and may find it difficult not having someone to talk to

with whom they shared those experiences.

It may hard to reconnect with friends 

Once service members have been back for a few days or weeks, they may start to feel like they are not

able to relate to friends or relatives anymore or that no one understands what they have gone through.

Service members may not know how to describe their experiences or they may not want to talk about

them at all. This might make them feel isolated and make it harder to adjust.

There may be some awkwardness in personal relationships

It is normal for service members to feel out of sync with their spouses at first. Both have grown and

changed during the separation. Face-to-face communication with friends and other family members

may also feel a little awkward at first for service members. Service members should understand that their

friends and family may also be feeling awkward, unsure of what to say around service members.

Spouses or other family members may be resentful at the deployment

Service members should not be surprised if their spouses are a bit resentful of the deployment. Others

often think of the deployment as more exciting than staying at home, even if the service member knows

otherwise. If a service member has children, they may feel as though the service member “chose” the

deployment over them, and may resent that the service member was away. Service members should

understand that these feelings are normal.

Problems will not have gone away because of the deployment

If there were unresolved marital or family problems before the deployment, they may not have gotten

better during the deployment. Service members should understand that it will take time and effort to

resolve these problems. Service members should be patient and try to keep their expectations reasonable.

Service members may feel angry, frustrated

It is completely normal for service members to feel angry because others were able to stay home while

they were on duty or because things have changed while they were gone. Anger can be another part of
- 205 -

Reintegration Phase

the process of adjusting to being home. If service members’ anger persists, they may want to talk with

members of their unit, a trusted member of the clergy, or a professional counselor.

Service members may feel tired or less motivated

After service members return, they may find that they are tired, less motivated than usual, or

discouraged. There may not be a single reason for these feelings. They may feel sad about the things

they missed while they were gone or feel out of place. These feelings are a normal part of the adjustment

process, but if they continue for a period of time, service members may want to talk with members of

their unit, a trusted member of the clergy, or a professional counselor.

Service members may have difficulty sleeping

Now that service members are in different surroundings and in a different time zone, they may initially

have some difficulty sleeping through the night. Service members should be able to start sleeping better

shortly after they return. If they are unable to sleep after a period of time, they may want to speak with a

counselor.

Service members may experience a range of emotions

In the short-term following service members’ deployment, they may experience a wide range of emotions

associated with their personal relationships. As service members adapt to changes in their relationships,

they may experience some worry, frustration, anger, confusion, fatigue, mood swings, or sleep difficulties.

Typically, these emotions do not last longer than two to four weeks. If service members continue to

experience these emotions, they may want to consult a chaplain, physician, counselor, or behavioral

health services for assistance.

Service members should expect a “letdown”

Once service members get a chance to relax after the reunion, they should expect something of a

letdown. Most, if not all, service members experience it. It simply means that they are no longer running

on adrenaline and that things are beginning to settle down. It may mean that the homecoming has not

solved all the problems that existed before the deployment or that reunion did not go the way service

members thought it would. Whatever the reason for the letdown, service members should know that it is

perfectly normal to feel this way for a period of time. However, if this feeling persists, it could be a sign

of something more serious, and service members may want to consult a chaplain, counselor, or behavioral

health services.

Service members may be facing additional stress with life changes 

Service members should understand that they and their families may be facing additional stress. If they

are an active duty service member, they may be receiving a change in job assignment or a permanent

change of station (PCS) move. If they are a National Guard or Reserve service member, they may

experience additional stress as they transition back into their civilian life.
- 206 -

Reintegration Phase

Experiencing multiple life changing events at the same time can 

compound the stress service members and their families are 

already feeling.

7

Reintegration Tips for Single Service Members 

Keep expectations reasonable

Single service members can help to minimize the impact of their emotional “letdown” by having

reasonable expectations for their adjustment.

Be prepared for change

Single service members should understand that people or circumstances may have changed while they

were away. It is important to take the time to consider this and to be open to these changes.

Make plans for the return

At some point, single service members may feel that nothing is going the way they planned and hoped.

It is still vital that they make plans, especially for the first few days of their return. If single service

members do not have friends or family who live in the local area, make plans with other returning unit

members for an activity that is special for them, and remember to call home.

Make new living arrangements

Many single service members move out of an apartment or dormitory prior to their deployment and

need to find housing again when they return. As soon as they feel ready, they should try to establish their

new living situation. Doing so can help them feel more settled.

Be patient 

Single service members should take time to ease back into their routine. They should not try to do

everything within the first day of return. They should consider making a prioritized list of those things

that must be done and address them one at a time. Single service members may want to put off any

major decisions until they have had enough time to readjust. If they try to do too much too soon, they

may end up only adding to their stress level.

Reconnect with friends and family

Single service members should have a support 

system of friends and family and should not be 

afraid to reach out to these people. 

7 When reconnecting with friends and family, single

service members should give themselves time to relax

and to return to their life at their own pace. Single

service members should make a special effort to spend

time with their friends and family or, if they are far away, call often to support and reassure them.
- 207 -

Reintegration Phase

Be patient with friends and family 

Service members should remember that those who are close to them are also adjusting to their return.

Friends’ and families’ adjustment to having the service member home again does not happen overnight;

it may take days, weeks, or even months. Service members should remember that fatigue, confusion, and

worry are common during this time, and that these can lead to short tempers, so they should try to be

patient with friends and family members as well.

Be respectful of others when discussing deployment experiences

Single service members should realize that people may have different reactions to their deployment.

Some people may want to know all about the deployment experiences, while others may not want to talk

about them at all. Single service members should try to be respectful of other people’s feelings and ask

others to respect their feelings if people want more information than service members would like to give.

Be prepared for some awkwardness in relationships

Single service members should remember that friends and relatives are adjusting too. Friends and

families may wonder how service members’ have changed and what service members have gone through,

but they may hesitate to ask about deployment experiences. Service members might not know what

to talk about because they are not caught up on the local news or what is going on in everyone’s lives.

If service members are feeling awkward, they can talk to their friends and families about how they are

feeling and encourage them to do the same.

Be patient when reestablishing intimacy with a significant other

If service members have a significant other, they should be patient when reestablishing intimacy. Service

members and their significant others may want to take some time to feel comfortable with each other

again. If the sexual relationship is awkward at first, talking about it openly and honestly may help service

members and their significant others to reconnect emotionally.

Be careful with spending

Single service members should resist the temptation to go on a spending spree now that they have returned.

They may have saved a large sum of money through tax exemptions and special pays, but this additional

money may be needed later for unexpected household expenses. Service members should stick to their

budget and then reassess their budget within two months after their return. They should also be keenly

aware that their pay will likely decrease after deployment since special pays and allowances may cease.

Do not be afraid to talk about feelings

Single service members may have seen or experienced some things that were very upsetting. Some

normal reactions to these abnormal situations are fear, nervousness, irritability, fatigue, sleep

disturbances, startle reactions, moodiness, trouble concentrating, feelings of numbness, and frequent

thoughts of the event. Talking with others who were there, counselors trained in crisis stress reactions,

chaplains, family services staff, or trusted friends and family can help relieve their stress.
- 208 -

Reintegration Phase

Take care of physical health

Service members should get plenty of rest, plenty of exercise, and eat properly. They may want to balance

the number of social events they attend against the need to minimize stress and remain healthy.

Avoid drinking excessively or turning to drugs

Service members should remember that stress may increase the likelihood of substance abuse. Neither

alcohol nor drugs will help to actually alleviate the stress. Overuse of alcohol and use of drugs can

increase feelings of depression and loneliness.

Understand that some emotions are normal

Returning to everyday life is a major change, and change always creates stress. Service members may

feel out of sync for a while and feel loneliness, fatigue, anger, and sadness. These emotions are all normal

parts of readjustment.

Do not be afraid to seek help if needed

Although it is normal to feel some emotional and physical stress while reintegrating, if these feelings do

not get better, service members should not hesitate to seek professional help.

Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; many options for support and 

professional care are available.

7

Reintegration Tips for Married Service Members 

Keep expectations reasonable

Married service members can help to minimize the impact of their emotional “letdown” by having

reasonable expectations for their adjustment and for their family members. This includes the need to

understand the demands of parenting, child care, school, and spouse employment.

Be prepared for change

Married service members should understand that people or circumstances may have changed while they

were away. It is important to take the time to consider this and to be open to these changes.

Be patient 

Married service members should take time to ease back into their routine. They should not try to do

everything within the first day of their return. They should consider making a prioritized list of those

things that must be done and address them one at a time. Married service members may want to put off

any major decisions until they have had enough time to readjust. If they try to do too much too soon,

they may end up only adding to their stress level.
- 209 -

Reintegration Phase

Get reacquainted with their spouse

After a long absence, service members and their 

spouses need to get to know each other again.

7 Married service members should spend quality time

with their spouses. Spouses may be more confident and

independent. Service members and their spouses have

both had new experiences during the deployment and these experiences may have changed their

priorities and ideas about roles in the marriage and the family. Talking now can help lay the foundation

for a newly strengthened relationship.

Married service members should share their feelings with their spouses and make sure they know that

they are loved and were missed throughout the deployment. Service members should encourage their

spouses to share their feelings as well. The best way to regain closeness and renegotiate roles in the

family is by talking and actively listening. Service members should check themselves emotionally to see

if they have brought home any “extra baggage” (such as mood swings, unusual feelings of anger, extreme

emotions, or new bad habits). Service member should also ask their spouses if they have noticed any

negative changes in the service member’s behavior or personality. Families should be open about these

concerns and address them before they take a toll on relationships.

Service members should expect it will take a little time to become reacquainted with their spouses. They

should talk with each other about the service member’s experiences and be open about their feelings. If

the couple has children, dedicated time alone with the spouse is critical to reconnecting with each other.

Express appreciation to spouses and children

Married service members should tell their spouses

how proud they are of them for running the household

single-handedly during the deployment. They should

provide their spouse encouragement, praise, and thanks

for what they have done in their absence. If service

members have children, they should tell their children

how proud they are of them as well. Service members

should communicate their love to their family, focus

on the positive changes they see at home, and let their

family know they appreciate them and all they went

through during the deployment.

Spouses who have returned to school or work during a

deployment may have experienced a new sense of independence and will need time to renegotiate roles

and expectations for relationships with the deployed service member, family, and friends.

Service members should resist the temptation to criticize their spouses’ efforts or the decisions they had

to make on their own during the deployment. Service members should keep in mind that their spouses

have been doing their best to run the household single-handedly and care for the children while service
- 210 -

Reintegration Phase

members were gone. Service members should give their spouses credit for their efforts, even if their

spouses’ way of doing things is different from theirs.

Arrange for time alone with each member of the family

Service members should try to schedule time alone with each member of their family. They should do

things to reconnect with each child that will give them time to relax, have fun, and talk together.

Ease back into roles and responsibilities 

Take time to ease by into roles and to redefine the 

sharing of responsibilities. 

7 Service members should not expect a “Change of

Command” at the door. They should understand that

their spouses may have grown accustomed to managing

more of the household responsibilities and may not be eager to turn control of them all back to service

members right away. They should take time to understand how the family has changed while they have

been gone.

Married service members should remain open to the possibility that the previous “division of labor” in

the household may need to be modified. Service members should take the time to discuss with their

spouses how they can gradually transition back into some roles and responsibilities in the household.

Be patient with friends and family 

Service members should remember that those who are close to them are also adjusting to having them

home. Service members’ adjustment to being home does not happen overnight; it may take days, weeks,

or even months. They should remember that fatigue, confusion, and worry are common during this time,

and that these feelings can lead to short tempers on all sides, so they should try to be patient with friends

and family members as well. 

Be respectful of others when discussing deployment experiences

Service members should realize that people may have different reactions to the deployment. Some

people may want to know all about the service member’s experiences, while others may not want to talk

about them at all. Service members should try to be respectful of other people’s feelings and ask other

people to respect their feelings if they want more information than service members would like to give.

Be careful with spending

Service members should resist the temptation to go on a spending spree now that they have returned.

They may have saved a large sum of money through tax exemptions and special pays, but this additional

money may be needed later for unexpected household expenses. Service members should stick to their

budget and then reassess their budget within two months after their return. They should also be keenly

aware that their pay will likely decrease after deployment since special pays and allowances may cease.
- 211 -

Reintegration Phase

Be prepared for some awkwardness in relationships

Service members should remember that friends and relatives are adjusting too. Friends and families

may wonder how service members’ have changed and what service members have gone through, but

they may hesitate to ask about deployment experiences. Service members might not know what to talk

about because they are not caught up on the local news or what is going on in everyone’s lives. If service

members are feeling awkward, they can talk to their friends and families about how they are feeling and

encourage them to do the same.

Do not dwell on thoughts of infidelity

Service members should not spend time worrying about their spouses’ fidelity while they were on

deployment. Worries about a partner’s unfaithfulness are far more common than the actual occurrence of

infidelity. Service members and their spouses should assume that both have been faithful to one another

unless they have strong evidence, not merely suspicion, to the contrary.

Be patient when reestablishing intimacy with spouse

Service members should be patient when reestablishing intimacy with their spouses. Service members

and their spouses may want to take some time to feel comfortable with each other again. If the sexual

relationship is awkward at first, talking about it openly and honestly may help service members and their

spouses to reconnect emotionally and then physically.

Get a second opinion if the relationship becomes strained

If the relationship between a service member and spouse becomes strained, they should get a second

opinion from an outside source. All couples can benefit from the objective observations of another party.

Service members and their spouses have many options to choose from including chaplains, a family

services counselor, or a behavioral health professional.

Service members and spouses can keep their relationship strong by 

getting the help they may need early in the reintegration process.

7

Do not be afraid to talk to other military families

If service members and their families are having trouble reintegrating, they should not hesitate to speak

with other military families who have gone through deployments before. Their experiences may prove

invaluable during this time. Service members can also connect with other families from their unit. It

always helps to have a strong support system.

Do not be afraid to talk about feelings

Service members may have seen or experienced some things that were very upsetting. Some normal

reactions to these abnormal situations are fear, nervousness, irritability, fatigue, sleep disturbances, startle

reactions, moodiness, trouble concentrating, feelings of numbness, and frequent thoughts of the event.
- 212 -

Reintegration Phase

Talking with others who were there, counselors trained in crisis stress reactions, chaplains, family services

staff, or trusted friends and family can help relieve stress.

Take care of physical health

Service members should get plenty of rest, plenty of exercise, and eat properly. They may want to balance

the number of social events they attend against the need to minimize stress and remain healthy.

Avoid drinking excessively or turning to drugs

Neither alcohol nor illicit drugs will help alleviate 

the stress.

7 Service members should remember that stress may

increase the likelihood of substance abuse. Overuse

of alcohol, use of illicit drugs, or abuse of prescription

drugs can increase feelings of depression and loneliness.

Understand that some emotions are normal

Returning to everyday life is a major change, and change always creates stress. Service members may

feel out of sync for a while and feel loneliness, fatigue, anger, and sadness. These emotions are all normal

parts of readjustment.

Do not be afraid to seek help if needed

Although it is normal to feel some emotional and physical stress while reintegrating, if these feelings do

not get better, service members should not hesitate to seek professional help.

Reintegration and Adjustment for Spouses

Service members returning from deployment are not the only ones who face challenges during the

reintegration back into normal life. Spouses of service members encounter many of the same challenges

as well as some unique obstacles.

What to Expect for Spouses

Now that service members have returned from deployment, spouses will be facing some challenges

related to their own readjustment. Communicating with service members and sharing feelings can make

this time easier for the whole family.

Things have changed

Over the course of a deployment, both service members and spouses have changed. These changes may

be subtle or they may be more obvious. Service members have lived in a different world, learned new

skills, made new friends, and functioned in living and working environments that may be very different

from anything they had previously experienced. Spouses have been living independently and managing

the household by themselves. They may have returned to school and work, and gained a new sense of
- 213 -

Reintegration Phase

independence, improved self-esteem, and developed new social networks. Because of this, both service

members and the spouses are different people.

It may take a while for service members to get adjusted

Home life is very different from deployed life. It may take some time for service members to fully adjust

to life at home again. When helping service members reintegrate back into their life at home, spouses

should keep in mind that their adjustment will not happen overnight.

Being a couple again takes getting used to

Service members and spouses need to get used to being a couple again and depending on each other

for some things. Through writing or phoning, service members and their spouses probably succeeded in

staying close, but now that they are back, some fine-tuning may

be needed for the relationship to run smoothly again.

Spouses should expect to have some doubts and worries

Spouses should expect to have some of their own doubts and

worries and expect their service members to have some doubts as

well. Service members may think that spouses do not need them

anymore and vice versa. This anxiety is a natural and normal part

of the reunion.

Spouses may feel like they need space

Service members and their spouses have been operating

independently for the course of the deployment. During this

time, both have been used to doing what they wanted during their

personal time. It is normal for service members and their spouses

to feel like they need some space during the reintegration.

Roles and responsibilities in the household may never go back to how they were

While service members were deployed, everyone at home became more independent, taking on new

responsibilities, making their own decisions, and setting their own schedules and routines. Because of

this, new roles and new rules may have been established out of necessity. Some of these were temporary

changes to the old rules to compensate for the service member’s absence, while others arose because the

needs of the family changed. These roles and responsibilities may never return to the pre-deployment status.

Face-to-face communication between service members and spouses may be awkward

It is normal for service members and spouses to feel out of sync with each other at first. Both have grown

and changed during the separation. Face-to-face communication with each other may also feel a little

awkward. Spouses should understand that their service members may also be feeling awkward, as they

may not be sure of how to act or what to say around their families.
- 214 -

Reintegration Phase

Arguments may arise

There may be some friction in the household now that service members have returned home and begun

reintegrating back into their families. Arguments may come up because of finances, spousal roles in the

household, and child discipline.

Intimacy between service members and spouses may take time to reestablish

Spouses should understand that it may take some time to reestablish intimacy with their service member.

Although sex can resume immediately, intimacy with each other may require that service members and

spouses become reacquainted. Sharing feelings and communicating openly can help to reestablish that

feeling of closeness.

Service members may be hurt at how young children receive them

Young children may be hesitant to accept service members upon their return. Service members may feel

hurt when small children are slow to hug and show emotions.

Service members may be surprised or hurt at how well spouses coped

Service members may not fully appreciate the 

skills their spouses have gained during the 

deployment right away.

7 Service members may be surprised at how well spouses

did on their own. Spouses should not be surprised if

their service members are a little hurt by how well

spouses were able to run the household and manage the

children without them. Spouses can let their service members know that their preference is to share

family and household responsibilities with them, no matter how well they did on their own.

Service members may be jealous at how close spouses are to the children

While service members were away, spouses and children may have become very close. Service members

may harbor a little jealousy at how closely spouses have bonded with their children during the

deployment.

It may be hard for service members to reconnect with friends 

Service members may feel like they are not able to relate to their friends or relatives anymore, or that no

one understands what they have gone through. Service members may not know how to describe their

experiences or they may not want to talk about them at all. This might make spouses feel isolated from

their service members and make it harder for them to adjust.

Service members may have difficulty sleeping

Now that they are in different surroundings, service members may initially have some difficulty

sleeping through the night. If this problem persists for more than just a few weeks, spouses may want to

encourage their service members to speak with a counselor or physician.
- 215 -

Reintegration Phase

Problems will not have gone away because of the deployment

If there were unresolved marital or family problems before the deployment, they may not have gotten

better during the deployment. Spouses should understand that it will take time and effort to resolve

these problems. They should be patient and keep their expectations reasonable.

Reintegration Tips for Spouses

As service members begin to reintegrate back into their families, spouses can help them by considering

some of the following recommendations.

Keep expectations reasonable

Spouses can help their service members reintegrate back into their families by keeping expectations

reasonable. Things may not ever go back to exactly the way they were. Regardless, spouses should

understand that it may take more time than they originally expected to feel comfortable again and that

things might not go exactly how they expected.

Be prepared for change

Service members may have changed during their deployment. Although they may not realize it, spouses

have changed too and may seem very different to their service members. It is completely normal for

spouses to feel out of sync with their service members at first.

Be patient 

Spouses should allow their service members time to ease back into their daily routine. Spouses may have

a list of things they have been waiting for their service members to do around the house, but they should

not spring this on their service members right away. It takes time to regroup as a family, and this process

cannot be rushed. Service members and their spouses should understand that fatigue, confusion, and

worry can lead to short tempers, and that this may add to the level of stress in the home.

Get reacquainted 

Spouses should take the time to talk with their service members. After a long absence, service members

and their spouses need to get to know each other again. Service members and their spouses have both

had new experiences which may have changed their priorities and ideas about roles in the marriage and

the family. It will take a little time to become reacquainted. Service members and their spouses should

talk with each other about their experiences and feelings, and make sure to tell each other just how much

they care. Talking now can help lay the foundation for a newly strengthened relationship.

Do not force talk about war

While talking will help service members and their spouses to become reacquainted with each other,

spouses should be careful when discussing some topics. They should not force talk about service

members’ experiences during war, but should be open to it when the time is right. If service members

are not ready to talk about their experiences during deployment, spouses should not push the issue. It
- 216 -

Reintegration Phase

is often a better idea for service members to talk through any tough experiences first with a chaplain, a

family service center counselor, or another trusted adviser or friend. If service members and their spouses

do talk about painful experiences as a couple, spouses should try hard to listen without judging.

Express appreciation to service members

Spouses should tell their service members how proud they are of them for their service. Spouses should

tell their service members how much they love them and how happy they are that their service members

are home again.

Ease service members back into their role in the household

Spouses should gradually transition some of the roles and responsibilities in the household back to their

service members. Spouses should not expect service members to take on all of their old chores right

away. Spouses have been managing the household during service members’ absence, and this may be a

great opportunity to evaluate whether the pre-deployment “division of labor” needs to be modified.

Be careful with spending

Spouses should resist the temptation to go on a spending spree now that their service members have

returned. Spouses have managed the household by sticking to a budget during their service members’

deployment. Now that service members have returned, the family will have some added expenses (e.g.,

a bigger grocery bill). Spouses should not lose control of the budget while celebrating their service

members’ return. Spouses should be aware that there will likely be a decrease in the service member’s

income due to certain pay and allowance changes after deployment.

Stay involved in activities and interests

Spouses should not give up their jobs, their 

classes, or the activities that they enjoy and that 

help them relax. 

7 If spouses have become employed, gone back to school,

adopted an exercise routine, taken up a hobby, or joined

a regular book group, they should not give it up just

because their service members are home. Spouses may

need to be flexible to keep these important things in their family schedule, but should do their best to

find a way.

Stay involved with the children

Spouses should stay involved with their children’s school activities and interests. They should not neglect

the children’s need for attention as they are becoming reacquainted with their service members.

Be patient when reestablishing intimacy with service members

Spouses should be patient when reestablishing intimacy with their service members. The time apart

has made service members and their spouses strangers to each other in many ways. Spouses should not

be afraid to talk to their service member about their feelings and should keep in mind that intimate

relationships may be a little awkward at first. Service members and their spouses may want to take some

time to feel comfortable with each other again.
- 217 -

Reintegration Phase

Get a second opinion if the relationship becomes strained

If the relationship between service members and their spouses becomes strained, they should get

a second opinion from an outside source. All couples can benefit from the objective observations

of another party. Service members and their spouses can talk with their chaplain, a family services

counselor, or a behavioral health professional. Service members and their spouses can keep their

relationships strong by getting the help they need early in the reintegration process.

Do not be afraid to talk to other military families

If service members and their families are having trouble during the reintegration, they should not

hesitate to speak with other military families who have gone through deployments before. Their

experiences may prove invaluable during this time. Service members and their spouses can also connect

with families from the service member’s unit. It always helps to have a strong support system.

Do not be afraid to seek help if needed

Although it is normal for service members to feel some emotional and physical stress while they

reintegrate into the household, if these feelings persist, spouses should not hesitate to seek professional

help on their behalf. Some anger and some tears can be expected after a long or difficult deployment,

but excessive anger, mean-spirited fighting, and violence are signs that service members may need help.

Spouses should not feel that they have to solve serious emotional problems on their own.

Reintegration and Adjustment for Parents

Parents of returning service members face unique challenges. For single service members, parents are

likely to be their closest family members and may become the service member’s main source of support

outside the military. For service members with their own families, the parents can become an extended

support system for both the service member and the service member’s spouse.

What to Expect for Parents of Returning Service Members

As parents welcome their service member children home from a deployment, everyone will need time to

adjust. Parents can best support their children by listening and openly communicating with them and by

being aware of any potential signs of stress or other problems.

Things have changed

Over the course of a deployment, service members have changed. These changes may be subtle or they

may be more obvious. Service members have lived in a different world, learned new skills, made new

friends, and functioned in living and working environments that may be very different from anything

they had previously experienced. Parents should not expect their children to think or act or react exactly

as they did before the deployment.
- 218 -

Reintegration Phase

It may take a while for service members to get adjusted

Home life is very different from deployed life. It may take some time for service members to fully adjust

to life at home again.

When helping service members reintegrate back into their life at 

home, parents should keep in mind that their adjustment will not 

happen overnight.

7

Service members may have seen or experienced very troubling things

The service member may have seen or experienced some very upsetting things. Some normal reactions

to these abnormal situations are fear, nervousness,

irritability, fatigue, sleep disturbances, startle reactions,

moodiness, trouble concentrating, feelings of numbness,

and frequent thoughts of the event.

Service members may be facing additional stressful 

situations

Once home from a deployment, service members

may be facing a change in job assignment or a move.

These transitions can cause additional stress in a

service member’s life. This may be especially true for

demobilizing National Guard and Reserve service

members who are transitioning back into civilian life.

Service members may feel like they need space

Service members have been operating independently during the deployment. They have been used to

doing what they wanted during their personal time. During a service member’s reintegration, parents

should understand that it is normal for their children to feel like they need some space and some time

alone each day.

Face-to-face communication between service members and their parents may be awkward

It is normal for service members to feel out of sync with their parents at first. Face-to-face

communication may feel a little awkward after so many months of communicating via email, phone, or

letters. Parents should understand that their service members may not be sure of how to act or what to

say around their parents.

Reintegration Tips for Parents of Returning Service Members

As service members begin to reintegrate back into their families, parents can help them by considering

some of the following recommendations.
- 219 -

Reintegration Phase

Keep expectations reasonable

Things may not ever be exactly as they were before the deployment, and it may take more time for the

service member to readjust than his or her parents originally expected.

Be prepared for change

Parents should take the time to try to understand how things may have changed during the deployment

for both themselves and their service member child. Although parents may not have noticed any changes

in themselves, they should understand that they may appear different to their service member child. It is

completely normal to feel out of sync with the service member at first.

Be patient 

It may take some time for service members to feel at home and at ease again after a deployment. Parents

should be patient with and supportive of their children during this time.

Get reacquainted with the service member

Parents may need to become reacquainted with their children. The best way to do this is through open

communication. Parents should not hesitate to tell their children that they are proud of them, that they

love them, and that they are happy that they are back home. Parents should also not be afraid to tell their

children exactly how they feel (e.g., nervous, scared, happy, etc.).

Do not force talk about war

While talking will help service members and parents become reacquainted, parents should be careful

when discussing some topics. They should not force talk about service members’ experiences during

war, but should be open to discussing it if the service member brings it up. It may be easier for service

members to talk through any tough experiences first with a chaplain, a family center counselor, or

another trusted adviser or friend. If service members and their parents do talk about painful experiences,

parents should listen without judging.

Work as a team with the service member’s spouse 

If the service member is married, parents should understand that the spouse may be their child’s main

source of support. Additionally, spouses may have access to other local support systems offered through

the military that are not available to parents. By speaking directly with their child’s spouse, parents can

help to ensure that they are all providing consistent support for the service member.

Provide support to the service member’s spouse

In addition to working with their child’s spouse, parents of returning service members should offer

support to their child’s spouse during this potentially stressful time. Parents may be a welcome additional

outlet for support and encouragement.
- 220 -

Reintegration Phase

Encourage the service member and his or her family to talk with other military families

If service members and their families are having trouble during the reintegration, parents should

encourage them to speak with other military families who have gone through deployments before.

These families’ experiences may prove invaluable during this time. Service members and their spouses

can also connect with families from the service member’s unit. It often helps to tap into this larger

support system.

Encourage the service member and his or her family to use military support systems

The military provides numerous programs and services to help service members and their families

readjust to life following a deployment. Parents should encourage their children and their families to

contact their local Family Readiness Group or family center if they feel that they need more finding a

new normal. Parents can also contact Military OneSource for informal and referral services.

Parents can encourage their service members to seek out support 

from military organizations and from other military families.

7

Encourage service members and their spouses to seek help if needed

Although it is normal for service members to feel some physical stress while they reintegrate into the

household, if these feelings persist, parents should encourage their children to seek professional help.

The earlier their child receives the proper medical care, the better their chance will be for a full recovery.

Similarly, if service members experience persistent emotional stress while they reintegrate into the

household, parents should encourage their children to seek professional behavioral health help. If the

service member is married, parents can also encourage the spouse to seek professional help on behalf of

the service member. Some anger and frustration can be expected after a long or difficult deployment, but

excessive anger, mean-spirited fighting, and violence are signs that service members may need help.

Reintegration and Adjustment with Children

The following sections provide an overview of some challenges service members may face during their

adjustment with children and recommendations to help ease the transition.

What to Expect when Reintegrating with Children

After service members return, there will be a readjustment period for the entire family, typically between

four to six weeks. A service member’s deployment may have seemed like a lifetime to a child. They

adjusted to the service member not being around and, now, they need time to adjust to having the

service member around again. They may be unsure of what to expect from the service member and may

feel uncomfortable. Their service member parent may seem very different from how they remember

him or her and younger children may not remember their parent very clearly at all. Children may fear

that the service member will “abandon” them again. They may be torn between loyalties for the service
- 221 -

Reintegration Phase

member and the parent or caregiver who stayed home. Children may experience worry, fear, stress,

happiness, and excitement.

How children manage throughout the reintegration period and how 

quickly they readjust depends on age, developmental level, and the 

child’s personality and temperament.

7

Service members should understand that their child or children have changed since the deployment;

they have grown physically, emotionally, and socially. Service members should also be aware that this

time is very stressful for children, possibly more so because children have so little life-experience to draw

from, as well as limited coping and communications skills.

What to expect with infants (under one) 

• Infants will probably not recognize the service member – An infant will probably not recognize

the service member following a deployment. Infants have not yet developed much of an ability 

to remember people and events. As painful as this might be, the service member should not expect

the baby to recognize him or her, even if a spouse or caregiver regularly showed the baby photos or

videos. The service member should expect the baby to initially react as if he or she is a stranger.

• Infants will likely cry when being held – Because the baby will probably not recognize the service

member, the baby will likely cry when held by the service member, pull away, fuss, and cling to the

spouse or caregiver.

• Infants may be frightened by the service member’s voice – Now that the service member has

returned, there will be a new adult voice in the house. Infants may be frightened by this new sound.

What to expect with toddlers (one to three)

• Toddlers may not remember the service member – Depending on the age of the toddler, he or

she may not remember the service member following a deployment. Even older toddlers may not

remember the service member right away and may be very shy initially. This is a normal reaction

for toddlers.

• Toddlers may act coolly toward service members – Toddlers may act aggressively or disinterested; it

is their way of showing their hurt and anger at the service member for leaving. This behavior, though

unsettling, usually does not last long.

• Toddlers may cling to their primary caregiver – Toddlers may cling to the spouse or caregiver for a

period of time after the deployment. They may not feel comfortable around the service member and

may hide from the service member as well. This behavior should end soon.

• Toddlers may regress in behaviors – If toddlers have been potty trained, they may regress to needing

diapers again. Toddlers may have temper tantrums or revert to other behaviors they have outgrown.
- 222 -

Reintegration Phase

• Toddlers may test the limits of family rules – Toddlers may test the limits of the family rules.

It is normal for children to want to find out how things may have changed as a result of the service 

member’s return by acting up a bit.

What to expect with preschoolers (three to five)

• Preschoolers may think they did something to make the service member leave – Preschoolers tend

to think as though the world revolves around them. They may think they somehow made the service

member go away or that the service member left because he or she no longer cared about the child. If

a preschooler believes this, he or she may feel guilty or abandoned.

• Preschoolers may be scared to see the service member again – Because the service member has

been away for a while and because children may not know what to expect upon his or her return and

how it will impact the family, preschoolers may be scared to see the service member again.

• Preschoolers may act coolly toward the service member – Preschoolers may act aggressively or

disinterested; it is their way of showing their hurt and anger at the service member’s absence. Their

behavior usually does not last long, but it is still unsettling.

• Preschoolers may express intense anger – Preschoolers may express intense anger as a way of

keeping the service member at a distance, thereby “protecting” themselves from further

disappointment.

• Preschoolers are likely to test limits – Preschoolers are likely to do some limit testing to see if

familiar rules still apply. They may misbehave or become demanding to get attention.

• Preschoolers may need time to warm up to the service member – Preschoolers will most likely

recognize the service member but may need time to warm up and feel comfortable with the service

member again. Some children may keep their distance from the service member and cling to the

spouse or caregiver.

What to expect with school-age children (five to twelve)

• Children are likely to give a warm reception – If the parent-child relationship was strong prior to

the deployment, school-age children are likely to give the service member a warm reception.

• Children may display a range of emotions – School-age children may display a range of feelings and

mood swings, try to act “grown up,” or be excited to see the returning parent. They may also express

guilt about not doing enough or being good enough while the service member was deployed.

• Children may try to monopolize the service member’s time – School-age children may talk non

stop and may be inclined to try to monopolize the service member’s attention.

• Children may fear that the service member will punish them – If the relationship between the

service member and the child was strained prior to the deployment, the child may fear that the

service member will punish them for all of their misbehavior during the deployment. This fear of
- 223 -

Reintegration Phase

punishment may make the child seem shy or withdrawn around the service member.

• Children may be resentful – Older school-age children may show resentment toward the service

member for the time they were away from the family.

What to expect with adolescent children (twelve to eighteen)

• Adolescents may have mixed emotions – Adolescent children’s reactions to the service member’s

return may be characterized by mixed emotions and dramatic mood swings.

• Adolescents may be very excited to see the service member again – If the service member and child

had a close relationship prior to the deployment, the adolescent child will likely be excited to see the

service member again.

• Adolescents may seem moody and appear to not care – Even if adolescent children are excited to

see the service member, they may act more reserved in public. Adolescents can have mood swings

and insecurities; they will be watching the service member for his or her reaction to them and the

changes in their lives (physical, social, intellectual).

• Adolescents may be resentful – Adolescents may show resentment toward service members for the

time they were away from the family.

Additional considerations for single parents

If service members are custodial single parents, they should

know that the adjustment period for their children may take

several weeks and can be awkward. Children may not react well

to suddenly not seeing the person who cared for them during

the deployment on a regular basis. Service members should

understand that over the course of the deployment, the bond

between this caregiver and child has strengthened and the child’s

loyalty may now be with the caregiver. This increased loyalty may

feel painful and threatening to the service member. If someone

else has primary custody of the child, service members may

wonder how their child will respond to them since they have

missed “regular” visits with him or her.

Tips for Reintegrating with Children

Children’s reactions vary depending on their age. The

recommendations provided in this section are separated by

age group.
- 224 -

Reintegration Phase

Tips for reintegrating with infants (under one)

• Do not worry if infants seem afraid – As infants may not recognize service members, service

members should not worry or be offended if their children seem to be afraid when the service

member holds them. It takes time and patience for the new face to become familiar.

• Be patient – Service members should go slow with infants; the baby will warm up at his or her own

pace. Service members should let the baby’s reactions guide them.

• Get involved with the care of the infant – Slowly get involved in holding, hugging, bathing, feeding,

playing with, and otherwise caring for the baby.

• Do not get angry or frustrated if the reintegration does not go smoothly – In addition to being

patient during the reintegration with an infant, service members should be aware of their own

potential anger management or control issues. If service members are experiencing feelings of anger

around or towards their child, they may want to seek professional counseling; these feelings could be

a sign of a larger issue.

Tips for reintegrating with toddlers (one to three)

• Be patient – Service members should be patient and treat toddlers with respect. Toddlers may reject

service members at first. This period of transition may last several weeks and can be awkward at

times.

• Do not force positive interaction – Service members should not try to force positive responses

from their toddlers. Service members should allow toddlers to warm up to them on the toddler’s own

schedule. A gentle offer to play with the toddler may be helpful, but service members should not force

the issue. Forcing interaction with toddlers may intensify children’s discomfort and resistance.

• Talk with and listen to children – Service members should be available to their children emotionally

and should set aside time to spend just with them. This is just as stressful a time for the children as

it is for service members. Service members can encourage their children to express feelings about the

return and to talk about how things have changed for them. Service members should encourage

small children to talk about new things they can do or things they have learned. 

• Tell children how much they were missed – Service members should tell their toddlers how much

they missed them and how happy they are to see their toddlers again. It may seem like toddlers

should know this, but it helps if they hear it directly from the service member.

• Tell children how proud the service member is of them – Service members should let their toddlers

know how proud they are of all the new things they have learned to do while the service member was

away on deployment. Children take great pride in their accomplishments and sharing them can make

the children feel closer to their service member parent.

• Sit at eye level when talking with children – By sitting at eye level when talking to toddlers, service

members can appear less intimidating.
- 225 -

Reintegration Phase

• Plan for alone time with each child – Service members and their spouses should plan for each child

to have special time with each parent. By doing so, service members can help their children to get

used to them being back in the home. It may take toddlers a little while to feel comfortable alone

with their service member parent.

• Involve children in planning activities – Toddlers should be included in planning family activities

and outings. Allowing the toddler to have a say in what the family does together will help reestablish

family bonds.

• Expect children to test boundaries – Service members and their spouses should expect toddlers to

test the boundaries of the rules of the house now that both parents are home again. Whenever there

is a change in a family, children work to find out whether it might mean any loosening of limits. Service

members should talk with their spouses about any new rules their spouses have set so they can present a

united front when issues arise. Together, they should apply rules fairly and consistently.

• Do not get angry or frustrated if the reintegration does not go smoothly – In addition to being

patient during the reintegration with a toddler, service members should be aware of their own

potential anger management or control issues. If service members are experiencing feelings of anger

around or towards their child, they may want to seek professional counseling; these feelings could be

a sign of a larger issue.

• Share the responsibility for discipline – Returning service members should support the rules

established by their spouses. Service members can slowly reintegrate themselves into the role of

disciplinarian. Service members should talk with their spouses about how best to share this role.

• Show affection to spouses – If toddlers are slow to warm up to service members, service members

should show affection with their spouses. This may make toddlers less shy about expressing their

affections.

Tips for reintegrating with preschoolers (three to five)

• Be patient – Service members should be patient and treat preschoolers with respect. They may reject

the service member at first, but time will ease the readjustment process. This period of transition may

last several weeks and can be awkward at times.

• Talk and listen to children – Service members should be available to their children emotionally and

should set aside time to spend just with them. This is just as stressful a time for the children as it is

for service members. Service members can encourage their children to express feelings about the

return and to talk about how things have changed for them. Service members should talk with their

children about their areas of interest, be it storybooks or toys.

• Tell children how much they were missed – Service members should tell their preschoolers how

much they missed them and how happy they are to see them again. It may seem like preschoolers

should know this, but it helps if they hear it directly from the service member.
- 226 -

Reintegration Phase

• Tell children how proud the service member is of them – Service members should let their

preschoolers know how proud they are of their accomplishments. Service members can express

appreciation for the help preschoolers provided their primary caregiver during the deployment. Focus

on their successes and limit criticisms.

• Plan for alone time with each child – Service members and their spouses should plan for each child

to have special time with each parent. By doing so, service members help their children to get used to

them being back in the home and having an active role in the family. It may take preschoolers a little

while to feel comfortable being alone with their service member parent.

• Involve children in planning activities – Preschoolers should be included in planning family

activities and outings. Allowing the preschooler to have a say in what the family does together will

help reestablish family bonds and to show that their opinions and feelings matter to their parents.

• Accept children’s feelings – Service members should accept their preschooler’s feelings even if they

seem fearful, confused, or angry. Service members should focus on rewarding positive behavior and

should give their children time to adjust emotionally to having them at home again.

• Expect children to test boundaries – Service members should expect their preschoolers to test

the boundaries of the rules of the house now that both parents are home again. Whenever there is a

change in a family, children work to find out whether it might mean any loosening of limits. Service

members should talk with their spouses so that they understand any new rules spouses have set, so

that they can present a united front when issues arise. Together, service members and their spouses

can apply rules fairly and consistently.

• Do not get angry or frustrated if the reintegration does not go smoothly – In addition to being

patient during the reintegration with a preschooler, service members should be aware of their own

potential anger management and/or control issues. If service members are experiencing feelings of

anger around or towards their child, they may want to seek professional counseling; these feelings

could be a sign of a larger issue.

• Share the responsibility for discipline – Returning service members should support the rules

established by their spouses. Service members can slowly reintegrate themselves into the role of

disciplinarian. Service members should talk with their spouses about how best to share this role.

Tips for reintegrating with school-age children (five to twelve)

• Be patient – Service members should be patient and treat school-age children with respect. Service

members should not try to force positive responses from school-age children; they should allow them

to warm up on their own time. School-age children may reject the service member at first, but time

will ease the readjustment. Service members may want to let school-age children be the first to renew

the bond. This period of transition may last several weeks and can be awkward at times.

• Talk and listen to children – Service members should be available to their children emotionally

and should set aside time to spend just with them. This is just as stressful a time for the children as
- 227 -

Reintegration Phase

it is for service members. Even if school-age children have been through a deployment in the past,

this deployment may have been different for them. Service members should encourage their children

to express their feelings about the return and to talk about how things have changed for them during

the deployment. Service members should express an interest in their children’s schoolwork and social

activities, and should share some of their own experiences from the deployment as well (limiting the

conversation to things that are appropriate given the child’s age and developmental level).

• Tell children how much they were missed – Service members should tell their school-aged children

how much they missed them and how happy they are to see them again. It may seem like school-age

children should know this, but it helps if they hear it directly from the service member.

• Tell children how proud the service member is of them – Service members should let their school

age children know how proud they are of their accomplishments and how they have grown

emotionally and socially during the deployment. Service members can express appreciation for the

help school-age children provided their primary caregiver during the deployment. Focus on their

successes and limit criticisms.

• Plan for alone time with each child – Service members and their spouses should plan for each child

to have special time with each parent. By doing so, service members can help their school-age

children to get used to them being home again. Service members should not force the issue if school

age children are not ready to spend time alone with them. This may take some time.

• Involve children in planning of activities – Children should be included in planning family

activities and outings. Allowing the children to have a say in what the family does together will help

reestablish family bonds and to show that their opinions and feelings matter to their parents.

• Expect children to test boundaries – Service members and their spouses should expect their

school-age children to test the boundaries of the rules of the house now that both parents are home

again. Whenever there is a change in a family, children work to find out whether it might mean any

loosening of limits. Service members should talk with their spouses so that they understand any new

rules their spouses have set and present a united front when issues arise. Together, service members

and their spouses should apply rules fairly and consistently.

• Do not get angry or frustrated if the reintegration does not go smoothly – In addition to being

patient during the reintegration with a school-aged child, service members should be aware of their

own potential anger management or control issues. If service members are experiencing feelings

of anger around or towards their child, they may want to seek professional counseling; these feelings

could be a sign of a larger issue.

• Share the responsibility for discipline – Returning service members should support the rules

established by their spouses. Service members can slowly reintegrate themselves into the role of

disciplinarian. Service members should talk with their spouses about how best to share this role.
- 228 -

Reintegration Phase

Tips for reintegrating with adolescents (twelve to eighteen)

• Be patient – Service members should be patient and treat adolescents with respect. They should

not try to force positive responses from adolescents, allowing adolescents to warm up to the service

member on their own time. Adolescents may reject the service member at first, but time will ease the

readjustment. Service members may want to let the adolescent child be the first to renew the bond.

This period of transition may last several weeks and can be awkward at times.

• Talk and listen to children – Service members should be available to their adolescents emotionally

and should set aside time to spend just with them. This is just as stressful a time for the children

as it is for service members. Even if adolescents have been through a deployment in the past, this

deployment may have been different for them. Service members should encourage their adolescents

to express their feelings about the return and talk about how things have changed for them since

the deployment. Service members can express an interest in their adolescent’s schoolwork and social

activities, and make them feel like a part of the service member’s life by telling them about

deployment experiences.

• Tell children how much they were missed – Service members should tell their adolescent children

how much they were missed and how happy they are to see them again. It may seem like children

should know this, but it helps if they hear it directly from the service member.

• Tell children how proud the service member is of them – Service members should let their|

adolescents know how proud they are of their accomplishments. Service members can express

appreciation for the help adolescents provided their primary caregiver during the deployment. Focus

on their successes and limit criticisms.

• Plan for alone time with each child – Service members and their spouses should plan for each child

to have special time with each parent. By doing so, service members can help their adolescent

children to get used to them being back home again. Service members should not force the issue if

adolescent children are not ready to spend time alone with the service member.

• Involve children in planning of activities – Adolescents should be included in planning family

activities and outings. Allowing them to have a say in what the family does together will help

reestablish family bonds and to show that their opinions and feelings matter to their parents. It is

also a great way for them to introduce their service member parent to new things they have learned

and or have grown to enjoy during the deployment.

• Be careful when criticizing adolescents – Adolescents tend to be very sensitive about being judged

or criticized. With this in mind, service members should be sure to make time to talk with them

about how they are and how the deployment impacted them. It is also important for service members

to share their experiences with their older children.

• Expect children to test boundaries – Service members and their spouses should expect their

adolescent children to test the boundaries of the rules of the house now that both parents are home

again. Whenever there is a change in a family, children work to find out whether it might mean any
- 229 -

Reintegration Phase

loosening of limits. Service members should talk with their spouses so that they understand any new

rules their spouses have set and present a united front if any issues arise. Together, service members

and their spouses should apply rules fairly and consistently.

• Do not get angry or frustrated if the reintegration does not go smoothly – In addition to being

patient during the reintegration with an adolescent, service members should be aware of their own

potential anger management or control issues. If service members are experiencing feelings of anger

around or towards their child, they may want to seek professional counseling; these feelings could be

a sign of a larger issue.

• Share the responsibility for discipline – Returning service members should support the rules

established by their spouses. Service members can slowly reintegrate themselves into the role of

disciplinarian. Service members should talk with their spouses about how best to share this role.

Additional recommendations for single parents

Service members who are custodial single parents should understand that their children may need time

to adjust to not being with their caregiver. Their children have been living with someone else who may

have had different rules and expectations. Custodial single parent service members should take time

to compare with their children the rules of each household and seek children’s input regarding how

they would prefer life at home to be. Service members should focus on communicating with both the

caregiver and children and making compromises when possible and appropriate. Service members can

help their children with the adjustment by actively involving the caregiver; forcing young children to

suddenly separate from the caregiver can be emotionally traumatic. Service members should expect this

adjustment period to take several weeks.

Service members who are non-custodial parents will start regular visits again now that the deployment

is over. When doing so, service members should remember that their children have grown and everyone

will need to take time to get reacquainted.

Reintegration at a Civilian Career

For National Guard and Reserve service members, reintegration following a deployment includes

resuming a civilian career. The following sections provide an overview of some challenges service

members may face when reintegrating back at work and recommendations to help ease the transition.

What to Expect for When Reintegrating into a Civilian Career

Just like home life, the work environment may be somewhat different 

when service members return.

7
- 230 -

Reintegration Phase

In preparing for reintegration back into civilian careers, service members should consider the following.

Service members may experience a change of pace

The pace of a deployed schedule is very different from the pace of a work schedule. Things may not

happen as quickly, there may be more or less downtime, and service members may feel less challenged.

Work environments may have changed

During the deployment, work environments may have changed. The office may be set up differently;

there may be new equipment and furnishings or different decorations around the office. Service

members may not have the workspace they had prior to the deployment.

Be prepared for staff turnover

In addition to changes in work surroundings, service members should be prepared for some changes in

the personnel at the workplace. Some of their colleagues may have moved on to new jobs, others may

have retired, or their employers may have expanded and hired new employees. Service members should

be prepared for a new set of coworkers when they start back at their full-time job.

Service members may be worried about the changes that have taken place

Service members may be worried about changes that have taken place since they left and how they will

fit back into the organizational picture. While service members were gone, other people had to assume

their roles and responsibilities, either through additional duties of current employees or through the hire

of a new employee.

Be prepared to accept decisions that were made during the deployment

If service members were supervisors in their civilian careers,

decisions will have been made while they were away. Now that

they have returned to their job, service members will have to live

with these decisions, regardless of whether they agree with the

decisions.

Be prepared for some colleagues to harbor issues or resentment

While a service member was away on deployment, others within

the workplace may have taken on his or her work or had to train

a new employee who took the service member’s place. Because of

this, coworkers may be harboring a degree of resentment toward

the service member because of an increase in their workload

during the course of the deployment.
- 231 -

Reintegration Phase

Tips When Reintegrating into a Civilian Career

Consult with the commanding officer

If this is the first time service members have gone on a deployment, they should discuss reintegrating

into their civilian work with their commanding officer. He or she may have experience advising others

with similar transitions and may be willing to speak to the employers on service members’ behalf to

address any concerns or to ensure a supportive environment for service members when they return

to work.

Contact supervisors before returning to work

Before returning to work, service members should contact their supervisors and ask them for a briefing

on the current situation. Service members will need to contact their supervisors to declare their intent

to return to work. They may also want to ask their supervisors to provide them an update on how

their responsibilities were handled during the absence, any changes in personnel, and new policies and

projects. By knowing of these changes before reentering the workplace, service members can help to

ensure that they will be ready to adapt to their new work environment.

Go slow

As with reintegrating into a family, service members should go slow when returning to work. Service

members should focus on communicating with their supervisors and coworkers, being patient,

anticipating and accepting any changes, and using this time as an opportunity to make a fresh start.

Service members will need to establish their credibility with new employees especially if service members

are in supervisory roles. Becoming reacquainted with old coworkers and learning about new coworkers

will take some time.

Talk with colleagues and supervisors

Service members should talk with colleagues and supervisors to learn of any changes in the workplace

and to understand the rationale for those changes. Even if service members do not agree with some of

the decisions that were made in their absence, they were not there at the time and they may not know

everything that went into the decision-making process.

Understand coworkers’ point of view

If service members encounter resentment from coworkers, they should try to understand that their

coworkers’ perception and experience of a deployment is very different than service members’.

Coworkers may not fully understand what service members have gone through, but arguing with

them will not help to resolve anything. Service members may be tempted to entertain coworkers with

“deployment war stories.” If they do, they should understand that some coworkers may not be interested

in hearing these stories. Service members should also make sure they show interest in things their

coworkers have been doing during the deployment.
- 232 -

Reintegration Phase

Avoid “taking charge”

Service members should understand that their absence may have forced coworkers to take on some of

their responsibilities, and coworkers may resent it if they feel service members have come back to take

control or to criticize them. Service members should be supportive of decisions that were made, and ease

back into their previous role gently and with open communication.

Talk with other National Guard and Reserve service members

Talking with other National Guard and Reserve 

service members can help alleviate stress and 

make service members feel less alone in their 

experiences.

7 If service members are worried about reintegrating at

work or are having trouble getting back to “normal,”

they should not be afraid to talk about it with other

service members who have had similar experiences in

the past or who are also just returning from a

deployment (such as members of unit). In addition to talking with other service members, employers

may offer an employee assistance program (EAP). These programs often provide excellent resources for

making the transition back to work a healthy one.

Be aware of reemployment rights

As service members prepare to go back to work, they should make sure that they are aware of their

rights under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). This law

applies to all employers regardless of their size, and protects those in the National Guard and Reserve

forces of the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Public Health Service Commissioned

Corps. For more information see the Employment Affairs Preparations section of this guide. If service

members feel that their rights may have been violated, they should contact the Employer Support of

the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Ombudsman service by telephone at 1-800-336-4590, by email at

USERRA@osd.mil, or by mail at the below address:

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

1555 Wilson Blvd., Suite 200

Arlington, VA 22209-2405

Seek professional help if needed

If service members feel overwhelmed by the return or are unable to function at work or home, they

should not be afraid to seek professional help from a behavioral health professional. Talking with

others about deployment experiences and what they are feeling can help. It is not a sign of weakness.

If the employer offers an EAP or if similar services are available in the community, service members

should take advantage of them. Such programs can often provide excellent resources for helping service

members make the transition back to their civilian life.
- 233 -

Reintegration Phase

Yellow Ribbon Program 

The Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP) is a DoD-wide deployment and reintegration program supporting

National Guard and Reserve service members and their families. It is designed to help them connect

with appropriate resources before, during, and after deployments. 

Yellow Ribbon events help to minimize the stress of a deployment 

and family separation by providing information, services, referrals, 

and proactive outreach opportunities. 

7

State National Guard and Reserve Components hold reintegration activities at approximately thirty-,

sixty-, and ninety-day intervals following demobilization. This ensures service members and their

families understand benefits, entitlements, and resources available to help them overcome the challenges

of reintegration. It also provides a forum through which they can address behaviors related to combat

stress, posttraumatic stress, and the challenges of transition and return to family, civilian life, civilian

employment, school, community, and other non-military activities.

Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention

After returning from deployment, service members may experience a range of complicated and

conflicting emotions. Service members will most likely experience what is referred to as a “post

deployment emotional letdown” as they transition from deployed life to home life. If service members

experienced or saw the aftermath of combat or had other traumatic experiences, they may be bringing

some strong emotions home with them. Combat and operational stress reactions, injuries, and illnesses

can have a lasting effect on their ability to function now that they have returned. Some of these

combat and operational stress reactions and injuries may heal with time, but some require professional

help through the recovery process. As a result of these traumatic experiences, service members may

be at higher risk for suicide. By recognizing the warning signs and knowing where to get help if

needed, service members can make themselves more resilient in the face of these post deployment and

reintegration challenges.

Post Deployment Emotional Letdown

After the initial celebration is over, most returning service members experience some sort of an

emotional letdown. This is part of the transition back to everyday life. In most cases, this simply

means that service members are no longer “running on nerves” and that things are beginning to settle

down. But this emotional letdown can mean that service members’ homecomings did not match

their expectations. The letdown can also come from the fact that the problems that existed before a

deployment are still there. In these cases, service members may want to consider getting additional

assistance.
- 234 -

Reintegration Phase

Once service members are rested and comfortable with their new 

surroundings, their regular positive feelings should return.

7

Signs That Service Members May Need Help

Occasionally, the emotional letdown following a deployment may develop into serious problems that

warrant the attention and assistance of professionals. Service members should be aware of the following

signs that may indicate that they need professional attention.

Long bouts of depression

If a service member’s emotional letdown lasts longer than two weeks or so, it may indicate something

more serious known as clinical depression. Warning signs of depression include frequent or long-lasting

feelings of despair or hopelessness, persistent lack of interest in day-to-day activities or loved ones, and

changes in eating and sleeping habits. In some extreme cases, depression can also be characterized by

thoughts of death or suicide.

Expressions of thoughts of death or suicide by a service member 

should always be taken seriously.

7

Frequent bouts of anxiety or panic

Feelings of extreme fear, even though there’s nothing around to cause it, are normal reactions to

extremely stressful events. But if they persist for several weeks after the event, they may indicate

something called an anxiety disorder. With professional attention, this disorder is usually treatable.

Flashbacks and frequent nightmares

Traumatic events such as combat often trigger nightmares and vivid, sudden memories called flashbacks.

If they persist over several weeks or months, and are accompanied by feelings of indifference or

avoidance to people and responsibilities, extremely “jumpy” reactions, and panic attacks, they may

indicate posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As with an anxiety disorder, PTSD is usually treatable.

Alcohol and drug abuse

When people are in pain, they sometimes try to “self-medicate” their problems with alcohol or drugs,

almost always resulting in even worse trouble. Getting help as early as possible is the best way to reduce

the risk of something worse happening as a result of alcohol or drug abuse.

Domestic violence and abuse

People who are troubled by their feelings or experiences occasionally want to lash out at their spouses

or their children. When controlled, these feelings are normal reactions to traumatic events or memories,

and tend to fade away after a few weeks. In other cases, this frustration is expressed physically in the

form of child abuse or domestic violence. The earliest possible intervention is the best way to minimize
- 235 -

Reintegration Phase

the damage caused by domestic violence and child abuse and get everyone back on the road to recovery

as soon as possible.

Where to Get Help

If service members are experiencing any of the above warning signs for a period of time (usually longer

than two weeks or so), they should consider seeking professional help. With professional help and

support, service members can overcome these problems.

Options for seeking help can range from support groups and anger 

management classes to more structured forms of assistance 

through chaplains, a counselor, or behavioral health professional.

7

Chaplains

Installation and unit chaplains can help service

members and their families to ensure that they are

prepared and supported spiritually, emotionally, and

socially. In times of personal, emotional, and marital

difficulties, chaplains can provide counseling to

help service members work through their problems.

Chaplains have a deep understanding of the military

lifestyle and the challenges that arise for families during

and after a deployment. They also have a wealth of

information on resources available to support service

members and their families both on and off of the

installation.

Family Centers

Nearly every military installation has a family center where service members and their families can access

information, referral, counseling, and crisis intervention services. Service members and their families are

eligible to receive services from any family center, regardless of their branch of Service or the branch of

Service of the family center. Each branch of Service uses a different name for family centers: the Army

Community Services (ACS) Center, the Marine and Family Services Center (MFSC), the Navy Fleet

and Family Support Center (FFSC), and the Air Force Airman and Family Readiness Center. The

Reserve Components operate family centers on a limited (in many cases virtual) basis depending on the

numbers and concentration of families in a given area.

Counseling through Military OneSource

In addition to the counseling services provided at installation family centers, service members and

their families can receive free, non-medical counseling sessions from Military OneSource. Military

OneSource consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via
- 236 -

Reintegration Phase

email offering personalized support to any service member or family member. Military OneSource can

connect individuals with a trained, state-licensed behavioral health professional for free confidential/

private counseling. The counseling is not designed to address long-term counseling needs, such as child

and spouse abuse, suicidal ideation, and behavioral health issues; people in need of long-term treatment

are referred to a military treatment facility (MTF) and/or TRICARE for services. Military OneSource

offers twelve free counseling sessions per person, per issue that are short-term, solution-focused, and

address a variety of topics such as improving relationships at home and at work, financial issues, marital

issues, grief and loss issues (normal reactions that would benefit from short-term support), adjusting to a

change in situation (such as a return from deployment or permanent change of duty station), and other

issues that are non-medical in nature.

Counseling through Military and Family Life Counselors 

MFLCs may provide up to twelve sessions of confidential, non-medical, short-term counseling sessions

for every day issues such as anger management, stress, parenting, communication, family relationships,

deployment, and other military-related topics. Situations involving potential harm to self or others are

referred to the MTF, TRICARE, or other providers of professional mental health care.

TRICARE-provided counseling

The web-based TRICARE Assistance Program (TRIAP) is available to eligible beneficiaries and

provides online access to counseling for short-term, non-medical issues. Eligible beneficiaries can

access TRIAP an unlimited number of times, and services are confidential and non-reportable. Eligible

beneficiaries include active duty service members, active duty family members, Selected Reserve service

members and their families who are enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select, and those covered under the

TRICARE–Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP).

In addition to the short-term counseling provided through TRICARE, service members, family

members, and retirees who are TRICARE beneficiaries and are experiencing symptoms of stress,

depression, grief, or anxiety are eligible to receive outpatient behavioral health care services. TRICARE

covers outpatient psychotherapy at a maximum of two sessions per week in any combination of

individual, family, collateral, or group sessions. More information on TRICARE-covered outpatient

behavioral health counseling is available on the TRICARE Mental Health and Behavior website.

Military Pathways

Military Pathways provides free, anonymous behavioral health and alcohol self-assessments for service

members and their families in all branches including the National Guard and Reserve. Military

Pathways is available online, over the phone, and at special events held at installations worldwide. Selfassessments include a series of questions that, when linked together, help create a picture of how an

individual is feeling and whether they could benefit from talking to a health professional. The primary

goals of the program are to encourage help-seeking behavior, to raise awareness about behavioral health,

and to connect those in need to available resources. The self-assessments address depression, PTSD,

generalized anxiety disorder, alcohol use, and bipolar disorder.
- 237 -

Reintegration Phase

Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association 

The Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) works with the Department of

Defense (DoD) to provide a number of programs and services, including home visit counseling and

crisis counseling. 

The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross offers confidential counseling, guidance, information, referrals, and other

social services to all military personnel (active duty, National Guard, and Reserves) and their families.

Combat and Operational Stress

If service members participated in or saw the aftermath of combat during their deployment, they may

experience complicated and conflicting emotions after they return. These strong emotions are normal

reactions to experiencing combat situations and may include feelings of sadness, helplessness, fear, and

horror. Even if they did not directly experience combat, they may have these types of emotions if they

had been in a very stressful or traumatic situation. These situations may include those in which service

members saw enemy or civilian casualties, had a friend die, processed dead bodies, or been in charge of

prisoners of war. Although these are natural reactions to these scenarios, they can sometimes interfere

with service members’ ability to do their job.

Understanding combat and operational stress reactions, 

recognizing the warning signs, and knowing where to go for help 

can service members identify any problems they may have early on 

and get the proper treatment.

7

Combat and Operational Stress Overview

Combat and operation stress is caused by severe life challenges such as the extreme stress of combat,

traumatic experiences, or the wear and tear of extended operations. When service members are in these

types of situations, the stress they feel can actually help them to brace for danger. But sometimes, the

event or experience can be so severe and intense that a service member’s body and brain continue to

maintain a state of high alert long after the danger has passed.

These reactions, injuries, or illnesses can happen to anyone who is 

subjected to this level of stress for a sufficient amount of time; they 

are not a sign of weakness.

7

These stress reactions, injuries, or illnesses are the result of actual physical changes in the way the brain

handles information and stress. Depending on the severity, they can change the way service members

function mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, and physically. Like physical injuries, most stress reactions
- 238 -

Reintegration Phase

and injuries will heal on their own over time. But also like physical injuries, stress reactions and injuries

have a better chance of healing quickly and completely if they are recognized and given the proper care.

Causes of Combat and Operational Stress

There are three main causes of combat and operational stress: psychological trauma, operational fatigue,

and grief from loss.

Combat and operational stress resulting from psychological trauma occurs due to a specific event or

events involving terror, horror, or extreme helplessness. These can include events in which service

members had a genuine fear of being killed or those where they witnessed gruesome scenes of carnage.

During one of these traumatic events, service members may have experienced a brief loss of control of

their thoughts, emotions, or behavior. Their mind may have gone “blank” for a short period of time, or

they may have briefly shook or lost control of their body in some other way.

Combat and operational stress resulting from operational fatigue occurs due to an accumulation of

smaller stressors over a long period of time. This period of time can be many months or can be over the

course of multiple deployments. Although the hardships and hassles of a deployment contribute to the

development of operational fatigue stress reactions, other stressors can also influence these reactions such

as a service members’ separation from their friends and families, money problems, or health problems.

Combat and operational stress that results due to grief from loss is typically caused by the death or

serious injury of close friends, valued leaders, or others that service members cared about. Everyone

reacts to losses such as these differently. Service members may feel intense emotions of anger, sadness, or

guilt after a death; or may not feel many emotions at all.

Combat Operational Stress Continuum

The combat operational stress continuum was developed jointly by the Marine Corps and Navy

Medicine Combat Operational Stress Control (COSC) team. The continuum has four stages: Ready,

Reacting, Injured, and Ill.

The goal of the continuum is to help identify where service 

members fit in along the continuum and to facilitate their return to 

the ready stage.

7

Ready stage

Leaders provide service members with realistic training and strive to build cohesion within the unit to

help build resilience in service members when facing the challenges and strains of a deployment. The

intended result of these training and unit-building exercises is to put service members into the ready

stage. In the ready stage, service members and their families are functioning well; service members feel

well-trained, fit, resilient, and ready to handle the challenges of a deployment. Service members may
- 239 -

Reintegration Phase

still be affected by combat and operational stressors, but they remain resilient and are not exhibiting any

signs of distress.

Reacting stage

When service members face a stressful situation, they will react to that situation. How they respond to

that situation will depend on how prepared they are for that stressor. If the stressors service members

experience begin to slightly impact their readiness, they will be in the reacting stage. During this stage,

service members may experience some impairment in their job functions or relationships and may have

mild, transient stress reactions, both of which are normal. The

associated symptoms of the reacting stage are usually mild and

temporary and resolve quickly.

Injury stage

If service members experienced especially intense or persistent

stressful situations during their deployment, they may experience

more severe and lasting distress or impairment representing

significant departures from their usual behavior. If these changes

in behavior are not getting better on their own, they may suggest

that the service member has received a combat and operational

stress injury. Individuals who are in this stage are likely to fully

recover, especially if they receive early intervention and support

from medical providers.

Illness stage

The illness stage of the combat operational stress continuum

occurs when service members have been exposed to the same especially intense or persistent stressful

situations, but fail to heal as expected. Service members with combat and operational stress illnesses have

their function severely impaired, even after several weeks or more removed from the sources of stress.

Those in the illness stage may be suffering from major depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse

disorders, or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Early professional intervention can improve the

likelihood of their return to full functioning and readiness, but it may require six to twelve months to be

mission ready again.

Symptoms of Combat and Operational Stress

The likelihood of having a combat and operational stress reaction, injury, or illness rises as service

members’ exposure to combat increases. Often, the lasting effects of these stressful situations are not

fully recognized until after service members return home from deployment and they notice that the

symptoms are not going away, even with rest and recuperation.
- 240 -

Reintegration Phase

Regardless of the severity of the reaction, injury, or illness, service 

members can help to expedite their recovery by seeking assistance 

as early as possible.

7

Symptoms of a combat and operational stress reaction

Symptoms of a stress reaction are characterized by mild distress or mild loss of function. If service

members have experienced a combat and operational stress reaction, they may exhibit the following

symptoms:

• mild anxiety

• prone to being startled or hyperactive startle responses to noises

• mild irritability

• unusual and excessive fear, worry, or anger

• culture shock due to the quick transition from the deployed theater to home life

• difficulty maintaining mental focus

• some difficulty performing daily duties

• loss of interest in social or recreational activities

• difficulty relaxing and sleeping

• recurrent nightmares or troubling memories

• some changes from normal personality and behavior

Symptoms of a combat and operational stress injury

Symptoms of a stress injury are characterized by severe distress or loss of function. If service members

have experienced a combat and operational stress injury, they may exhibit the following symptoms:

• uncharacteristic panic attacks

• uncharacteristic outbursts of rage

• withdrawal from social or recreational activities

• uncontrolled or frequent crying or other extreme reactions to stressful events that would normally

be handled more calmly

• inability to fall asleep or stay asleep

• disruptive nightmares or memories (flashbacks) that increase the heart rate

• loss of usual concern for beliefs or moral values
- 241 -

Reintegration Phase

• stress-related physical illness (headaches, gastrointestinal disorders, upper and lower back problems)

• serious suicidal or homicidal thoughts

Symptoms of a combat and operational stress illness

Symptoms of a stress illness are characterized by persistent severe distress or loss of function. If service

members have experienced a combat and operational stress illness, they may exhibit all of the symptoms

of a stress injury, but the symptoms will last for more than several weeks following their deployment. An

additional symptom of a stress illness is that the stress problems do not improve over time or get worse

as time progresses.

Coping strategies for Combat and Operational Stress

Understand the signs of combat and operation stress 

The more service members know about the warning signs of combat and operational stress, the better

prepared they will be to handle it and provide assistance to others. Service members should understand

that these reactions are normal and that they can recover from it if they take care of it promptly.

Get plenty of rest

Rest and recuperation following a traumatic event and following a deployment can reduce the risk of

developing a persistent stress injury. Service members should get adequate rest; trying to ensure that they

get at least twenty-four to seventy-two hours of uninterrupted rest time following a deployment.

Take care of themselves physically

Service members can help to reduce the risk of stress reactions, injuries, and illnesses by maintaining

their own physical readiness. Exercising lowers the resting heart rate, which can in turn reduce the risk

of stress reactions, injuries, and illnesses.

Go slow

Take things one step at a time. If service members are facing larger obstacles, they can use a step-by-step

approach to look for solutions for parts of the overall problem. Service members should expect to have

some setbacks (whether emotional, financial, physical, or job-related) but should not let these setbacks

get them down. Recovering from a stress injury or illness can take some time.

Talk openly about problems with other members of the military

Service members experiencing stress reactions should not be afraid to talk with others who have had

similar experiences about what they are going through and how they are doing. Other members of the

unit can be a strong support system for service members recovering from a stress reaction, injury, or

illness, and they can assure service members that they are not alone in dealing with these issues.
- 242 -

Reintegration Phase

If service members are not comfortable speaking with other 

members of the unit, the local chaplain can provide emotional 

support and assistance getting through each day.

7

Involve family members

If family members are aware of combat and operational stress, they can help to provide service members

support if and when they need it. Service members experiencing stress reactions should do their best

to communicate openly with their families and let them know why they react the way they do. Service

members can ask their families to let them establish their own schedule for talking about what they have

been through and ask them to listen when they are ready to talk. Service members should also let their

families know that they may need time to adjust to changes that have happened while they have been gone.

Do not use alcohol and drugs to escape or forget problems

If service members are suffering from a combat and operational stress reaction, injury, or illness, they

should not turn to alcohol or drugs to escape. These do not help the recovery process and can actually

make problems worse and strain relationships with friends, family, and fellow service members.

Get help if needed

If service members are suffering from a combat and operational stress reaction, injury, or illness that

is interfering with their work or their interactions with other people and is not improving with time,

they should not hesitate to seek professional help. If in theater, service members can talk with their

unit’s medic, chaplain, or a medical officer; these persons will talk with the service member and help

determine the best way to get them back on their feet, depending on location and circumstances. If

service members have returned home from deployment, they can talk with their unit’s medic, chaplain,

medical officer, or a primary care manager. Service members can also receive free, confidential face-toface counseling through Military OneSource and through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). 

7 Seeking help is not a sign of weakness.

Where to Get Help for Combat and Operational Stress

Installation Chaplains

Chaplains aboard the local installation can provide emotional support and assistance for service members

experiencing acute stress reactions and injuries. Contact information for installation chapels can be

found on the MilitaryINSTALLATIONS website under the program or service “Chapels.”

Short-term counseling through the TRICARE Assistance Program 

The web-based TRICARE Assistance Program (TRIAP) is available to eligible United States
- 243 -

Reintegration Phase

beneficiaries and provides online access to counseling for short-term, non-medical issues. Eligible

beneficiaries can access TRIAP for unlimited number of times, and services are confidential and nonreportable. Eligible beneficiaries include active duty service members, active duty family members,

Selected Reserve service members and their families who are enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select, and

those covered under the TRICARE–Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP).

Counseling through Military OneSource

Military OneSource is a free service provided by the Department of Defense (DoD) that is available

to active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members and their families. Military OneSource

consultants provide non-medical counseling sessions

twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone,

online, or via email personalized to any service member

or family member. Military OneSource can connect

service members and their families with a trained,

state-licensed behavioral health professional for free

confidential/private counseling. The counseling is

not designed to address long-term counseling needs,

such as child and spouse abuse, suicidal ideation, and

mental illness; people in need of long-term treatment

are referred to a military treatment facility (MTF) and/

or TRICARE for services. Military OneSource offers

twelve free counseling sessions per person, per issue that

are short-term, solution-focused, and address a variety

of topics such as improving relationships at home and at work, financial issues, marital issues, grief and

loss issues (normal reactions that would benefit from short-term support), adjusting to a change in

situation (such as a return from deployment or permanent change of duty station), and other issues that

are non-medical in nature.

Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment counseling

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers readjustment counseling to service members who

served in any combat zone and their family members through Vet Centers across the country. The

VA provides a wide range of services including individual counseling, group counseling, marital and

family counseling, bereavement counseling, medical referrals, assistance in applying for VA benefits,

employment counseling, alcohol/drug assessments, information and referral to community resources,

military sexual trauma counseling and referral, and outreach and community education. Eligible

beneficiaries can contact the Vet Centers by phone at 1-800-905-4675 (Eastern) and 1-866-496-8838

(Pacific) or through the Vet Center website.

Behavioral health counseling through TRICARE

Service members, family members, and retirees who are TRICARE beneficiaries and are experiencing

symptoms of stress, depression, grief, or anxiety are eligible to receive outpatient behavioral health care
- 244 -

Reintegration Phase

services. TRICARE covers outpatient psychotherapy at a maximum of two sessions per week in any

combination of individual, family, collateral, or group sessions. More information on TRICARE-covered

outpatient behavioral health counseling is available on the TRICARE Mental Health and Behavior website.

Behavioral health counseling through military treatment facilities 

Military treatment facilities (MTF) offer counseling services on site by military behavioral health

professionals and doctors. Service members exhibiting high levels of distress, emotional or behavioral

symptoms interfering with everyday functioning, or threatening harm to themselves or others should

be immediately referred to the MTF for a psychological evaluation. The nearest MTF can be found

through the TRICARE MTF locator.

Military Pathways

Military Pathways provides free, anonymous behavioral health and alcohol self-assessments for family

members and service members in all branches including the National Guard and Reserve. Military

Pathways is available online, over the phone, and at special events held at installations worldwide. Selfassessments include a series of questions that, when linked together, help create a picture of how an

individual is feeling and whether they could benefit from talking to a health professional. The primary

goals of the program are to reduce stigma, to raise awareness about behavioral health, and to connect

those in need to available resources. The self-assessments address depression, PTSD, generalized anxiety

disorder, alcohol use, and bipolar disorder.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a stress illness that can occur following the experience or

witnessing of a traumatic event such as military combat, terrorist incidents, or serious accidents. If

service members have gone through a traumatic experience, it is normal to feel lots of emotions, such

as distress, fear, helplessness, guilt, shame, or anger. The types and degree of emotional reactions service

members experience following a traumatic experience vary and are based on many factors, including

whether the event was sudden, how long the event lasted, how directly affected the service member was,

and whether the service member experienced traumas in the past.

Service members may start to feel better after days or weeks, but if 

these feelings do not go away on their own and last for more than a 

month, a service member may have PTSD.

7

Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

For some people, PTSD symptoms begin almost immediately after the trauma happens. For others,

the symptoms may not begin or may not become a problem until years later. The following list provides

some examples of possible symptoms of PTSD. Although these symptoms are normal reactions to a

traumatic event, they may be an indication of PTSD if they do not diminish with time or become worse.
- 245 -

Reintegration Phase

Repeatedly thinking about the event

Service members may think about the trauma even when they do not want to. They might also have

nightmares, flashbacks, or vivid memories about the traumatic event or may become upset when

something reminds them of the event.

Avoiding reminders of the trauma

Service members may not want to talk about the event or be around people or places that remind them

of the event. They also may feel emotionally numb, detached from friends and family, and lose interest in

activities.

Experiencing physical symptoms

When suffering from PTSD, service members can also experience physical symptoms including chronic

pain, headaches, stomach pain, dizziness, heart palpitations, diarrhea, tightness or burning in the chest,

muscle cramps, or low back pain. They may also feel shaky, panicky, or very tired.

Experiencing panic attacks

Service members may experience feelings of intense fear, with shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating,

nausea, and a racing heart.

Being constantly alert or on guard

Service members suffering from PTSD may be easily startled, anxious, or hyper-vigilant about their

and their family’s safety. They may also feel as though they are still in danger even when they are safe at

home.

Experiencing mood swings

Service members may have trouble controlling their emotions. They may experience extreme mood

swings.

Feeling anger and being irritable 

Service members suffering from PTSD may feel “angry at the world” or feel anger toward people they

love and trust. This may manifest itself through arguments with relatives, friends, or fellow service

members or unfounded anger toward specific people or groups of people. They may also feel aggressive

or have a hard time controlling feelings of aggression.

Feeling depressed

Service members may feel persistently sad, anxious, or empty. They may feel a loss of energy or notice

a loss of interest in activities that they once enjoyed. Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness about the

future may also be present.
- 246 -

Reintegration Phase

Having difficulty concentrating

Service members may find that they have difficulty concentrating or making decisions. They may forget

parts of their ordinary daily routine, like brushing their teeth, paying bills, or preparing meals. As a result

of this, they may have problems functioning in their job, at school, or in social situations.

Having difficulty in relationships

Service members may also experience difficulties in personal relationships. They may have problems with

intimacy, or feel detached from family and friends.

Losing trust in others

Service members may have feelings of mistrust or think that the world is a dangerous place. 

Withdrawing from others

People who have lived through a traumatic event often feel different from others; they feel like outsiders.

Recommendations for Treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD can be treated successfully. Although the memories will not completely go away, service members

can learn how to manage their responses to these memories, manage the feelings that they bring up, and

reduce the frequency and intensity of their reactions. The following information is designed to provide

service members some recommendations that may help them recover from PTSD.

If service members have been diagnosed with PTSD, they should 

talk with their medical provider to determine which treatment 

options are best for them.

7

Connect with friends and family

It is easy to feel alone when service members have been through a trauma and are not feeling well, but

isolation can make them feel worse. Talking to friends and families about the event can help service

members process the trauma, feel more in control, and get the support they need.

Go slow

Posttraumatic stress is the mind’s way of trying to make sense of a traumatic event; it is not a sign of

personal weakness. Recovery from PTSD is an ongoing process. Service members should be patient with

themselves and ask others to be patient with them as well.

Find ways to relax

Everyone has their own ways to relax. They may include listening to soothing music, reading a book, or

taking a walk. Service members may also want to try some relaxation techniques such as deep breathing,

yoga, meditation, or massage therapy, but should avoid using alcohol, drugs, or smoking to relax.
- 247 -

Reintegration Phase

Exercise regularly

Exercising relieves tense muscles, improves mood and sleep, and boosts energy and strength. By

exercising regularly, service members help to lower their resting heart rate and ease some of the

symptoms of anxiety and depression. Service members should try to exercise three to five days a week

for at least thirty minutes each day. If this is too long, they can start off by exercising for ten to fifteen

minutes at first, working their way up.

Get enough rest

Getting enough sleep can help service members cope with their problems better, lower their risk for

illness, and help them recover from any new stresses. Service members should try to get seven to nine

hours of sleep each night.

Do not compare progress to others’ progress

Everyone reacts differently to traumatic experiences. If other service members who were with the

service member during the traumatic event are not suffering from PTSD, it does not mean that they are

stronger. If service members know someone else who is suffering from PTSD as well, they should not

compare their progress to the other person’s progress toward recovery. Everyone is different in terms of

how they recover from a traumatic event.

Keep a journal of thoughts

Writing down thoughts can be a great way to work through issues. Writing about painful events can

reduce stress and help improve overall health.

Refrain from using nonprescription drugs and alcohol

Although using nonprescription drugs and alcohol may seem to help in coping, it can make symptoms

worse, delay treatment and recovery, and can cause abuse or addiction problems.

Limit the amount of caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant. As a result, excessive caffeine can raise the heart rate and may also disturb sleep.

Limit the time spent watching television

If watching the news or other programs is bothersome, service members should limit the amount of

time they watch television. They should try to limit news programs or other programs that may have

disturbing images before going to sleep. These may keep them from falling asleep right away.

Consider joining a support group

Although friends and family may be supportive 

of the service member, it can sometimes be very 

helpful to speak with others who completely 

understand the situation.

7 Support groups led by behavioral health professionals

involve small groups of individuals (usually ranging in

size from four to twelve) who have similar issues to

talk about. Through these support groups, service
- 248 -

Reintegration Phase

members can share their thoughts to help resolve their feelings, gain confidence in coping with

memories and symptoms, and find comfort in knowing that they are not alone.

Get professional help

PTSD is a serious illness. Waiting for symptoms of PTSD to subside is usually not a good idea. It is

important to seek professional help as soon as service members realize that they are not themselves or if

they are experiencing overwhelming feelings of sadness, anger, or despair, or if they are having thoughts

of suicide. Medical providers can work with service members to determine the best plan for helping

them to recover from PTSD.

Suicide Prevention

During a deployment, service members may have been involved in traumatic situations that have

lasting emotional impacts. They may also return to their home life and feel isolated from their friends,

family, and surroundings. They may be facing challenges (in relationships, with finances, etc.) that seem

completely insurmountable. Service members and their families should be aware of the risk of suicide.

By recognizing the warning signs, knowing what actions an individual can take to help, and knowing

where to get professional assistance, other service members and family members can help to ensure that

at-risk individuals receive the support they need.

Potential Warning Signs

The presence of the following possible warning signs of suicide do not necessarily mean that an at-risk

individual will actually attempt suicide; these are signs to be aware of that may indicate that there is a

higher risk for self-injury.

Increasing awareness of warning signs can help prepare service 

and family members to intervene and get at-risk individuals the 

help they need.

7

Exhibits a range of emotions or changes in personality

At-risk individuals may experience a wide range of emotions including sadness, irritability, anxiety, anger,

indecisiveness, rage, and apathy. They may also have sudden, unexpected mood swings.

Experiences changes in behavior

At-risk individuals may have started acting impulsively or without regard for consequences. They may

tempt fate by taking risks that could be lethal. They may have lost interest in things they once cared

about such as work, sports, school, personal appearance, etc.
- 249 -

Reintegration Phase

Experiences changes in sleep patterns

At-risk individuals may experience changes in sleeping habits including insomnia, waking earlier than

usual, oversleeping, and nightmares.

Experiences changes in eating habits

Changes in eating habits such as a loss of appetite, loss of weight, or overeating may be a warning sign

as well.

Withdraws from friends and family

Other service members or family members may notice that individuals begin to withdraw from friends

and family. They may also withdraw from their normal activities or society in general.

Abuses alcohol or other drugs

Increased or excessive use of alcohol or other drugs may be an indication of higher risk for self-injury.

Feels excessive guilt, shame, or a sense of failure

At-risk individuals may feel like they are an unbearable burden on their family, friends, or society.

They may feel as though they are worthless, have an overwhelming feeling of guilt, self-hatred, or have

excessive feelings of guilt and shame for events that occurred during their deployment. They may have a

sense of failure at their inability to connect with others and maintain relationships.

Experiences a recent loss

If an individual has recently experienced a loss, they may be at a higher risk for suicide. This loss may

be a serious injury to themselves, the death of someone close to them, a divorce, a separation or broken

relationship with a significant other, or the loss of a job, money, status, or religious faith. They may

exhibit lower self-confidence and self-esteem or may show a loss of interest in friends, sex, hobbies, or

other activities they previously enjoyed.

Feels hopeless or a lack of purpose in life

If an individual expresses hopelessness or does not feel as if there is any purpose in life, he or she may be

at risk for suicide. Other service members and family members should take notice of any statements such

as “it’s never going to get any better” or indications that the individual feels trapped without any way out

of the situation.

Talks about dying

Any talk about suicide, dying, disappearing, or harming oneself is an indication that the individual may

be at risk for suicide.
- 250 -

Reintegration Phase

Prepares to die 

At-risk individuals may start visiting or calling people to say goodbye, putting affairs in order, tying up

loose ends, and giving away their prized possessions.

Looking for ways to die

Other service members and family members should pay special attention to any indications that individuals

are seeking information about how to die or seeking to obtain any means of killing themselves.

Disciplinary Actions

Recent legal and disciplinary actions may increase an individual’s risk for suicide.

Recommendations for Helping Individuals Considering Suicide

If other service members or family members know an individual who they think may be at risk for

suicide, they should understand that most suicidal individuals have mixed feelings about ending their

life. As a result, either consciously or unconsciously, these individuals often exhibit warning signs of

their intentions.

If other service members or family members hear or observe 

anything suggesting an individual may be suicidal, they should 

immediately take action to provide support and resources.

7

Talk openly about suicide

Although it can be uncomfortable to bring up the subject, other service members and family members

should not be afraid to ask at-risk individuals directly about suicide. Talking openly can help others to

gain some insight into the seriousness of the problem. The more planning that an individual has put into

a suicide, the higher the risk. If the individual has a method and a time in mind, the risk is extremely

high. In cases such as these, other service members and family members should not hesitate to call

911 and ensure that professional treatment is provided. Talking with the person will not cause them to

become suicidal, but it may prevent a suicide attempt by offering an opportunity to connect and express

feelings.

Listen to at-risk individuals

When speaking with the individual, other service members and family members should listen attentively

and patiently. Let the individual talk as much as he or she wants to, listen closely and be as supportive as

possible, and learn as much as possible about what is causing the suicidal feelings. Be as gentle, kind, and

understanding as possible. Avoid giving advice about personal problems. Acknowledge painful feelings

without trying to tell the individual what to do about them immediately.
- 251 -

Reintegration Phase

Take at-risk individuals’ statements seriously

If an individual says that he or she is thinking about suicide, these comments should always be taken

very seriously. Do not act shocked. The individual is already highly distressed, and if other service

members or family members are shocked by what is said, the individual will become more distressed.

Stay calm and talk with him or her in a matter-of-fact manner, but get help immediately.

Do not be judgmental

Other service members and family members should not invalidate anything that the individual says

or feels. Other service members and family members should try to be supportive and caring, not

judgmental, and get help for the individual immediately. Do not discount the person’s feelings. Other

service members and family members should not try to impose their own values by saying things like

“suicide is wrong” or “maybe you’re overreacting.” Assuming that the person is only seeking attention is a

very serious, and potentially disastrous, error; help should be sought immediately for the individual.

Comfort the individual with words of encouragement

Use common sense to offer words of support and

reassure the individual that solutions can be found to

the problems causing the pain. Without dismissing

their painful feelings, other service members and family

members can talk about alternatives to suicide and

let the individual know that people care about what

happens to him or her. Remember that this intense

emotional pain can be overwhelming, so try to be as

gentle and caring as possible. Listen carefully and offer

encouraging words when appropriate.

Never promise confidentiality

Other service members and family members should

never promise to keep confessions of suicidal thoughts a secret. If there is a serious risk of suicide, other

service members and family members may need to talk to helping professionals in order to keep the

individual safe. Instead of agreeing to be sworn to secrecy, other service members and family members

should tell the individual what they can do. For example, they can reassure the individual that they will

not share information with anyone who does not have a need to know (such as friends, neighbors, or

coworkers).

Emphasize the importance of seeking professional help

If the at-risk individual is a service member, he or she may be hesitant to seek professional behavioral

health services, fearing that seeking these services may hurt his or her career. This stigma associated

with behavioral health often prevents service members from seeking help. Other service members and

family members should try to encourage the individual to accept professional help as an opportunity
- 252 -

Reintegration Phase

to find a way out of a desperate situation and learn new ways to cope. They can remind the individual

that the military is very serious about preventing suicide and making sure service members get the help

they need. Other service members and family members should try to explain that most people who get

professional help are able to get back to duty and enjoying life again.

Call 911 or seek immediate help from the emergency room if needed

If an individual is threatening to hurt or kill his or herself, looking for ways to commit suicide, or

talking/writing about death, dying, or suicide, other service members or family members should call 911

immediately. If they are on the phone with the individual and they believe the individual is in immediate

danger, they should try to keep the individual on the line while they or someone else calls 911 or a

suicide hotline. Other service members and family members should not try to handle the situation by

themselves; a suicidal person needs immediate assistance from qualified behavioral health professionals.

Do not leave at-risk individuals alone

After other service members or family members contact professional help, they should stay with the atrisk individual until help arrives. They should not, under any circumstances, leave a suicidal person alone,

not even for a second.

Stay connected with the at-risk individual

After the individual has received professional assistance, other service members and family members

should continue to be there for the individual. They should check often to ensure that the individual is

getting needed help and is doing okay. Suicidal feelings can come and go, so it is important to follow up

to see how the individual progressing. It is also important to keep showing that people care and that they

will not allow the crisis to define their future relationship with the individual.

Where to Get Help for Individuals Considering Suicide

If an individual is at risk for hurting themselves, other service members or family members should

call 911 immediately. When the risk of suicide is lower, they may be able to help the individual by

connecting him or her with professional counseling and support services. The following list can provide

other service members and family members with some options for getting an at-risk individual the

professional help they need.

If an individual is at risk for hurting themselves, other service 

members or family members should call 911 immediately. 

7
- 253 -

Reintegration Phase

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), is a twenty-four-hour, toll-free,

confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. By

dialing 1-800-273-TALK, the call is routed to the nearest crisis center in a national network. The crisis

centers provide crisis counseling and behavioral health referrals. This is one of the primary resources for

service members and their families seeking suicide prevention services. The VA has founded a national

suicide prevention hotline specifically for veterans in crisis. Veterans can call the Lifeline number and

press “1” to be routed to the Veterans Suicide Prevention Hotline.

Chaplains

Installation and unit chaplains can help service members and their families to ensure that they are

prepared and supported spiritually, emotionally, and socially. In times of personal, emotional, and marital

difficulties, chaplains can provide counseling to help at-risk individuals work through their problems.

Chaplains have a deep understanding of the military lifestyle and the challenges that arise for families

during a deployment. They also have a wealth of information on resources available to support service

members and their families both on and off of the installation.

Family Centers

Nearly every military installation has a family center where service members and their families can access

information, referral, counseling, and crisis intervention services. Service members and their families

are eligible to receive services from any family center, regardless of the service member’s branch of

Service or the branch of Service of the family center. Each branch of Service uses a different name for

family centers: the Army Community Services (ACS) Center, the Marine and Family Services Center

(MFSC), the Navy Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC), and the Air Force Airman and Family

Readiness Center. The Reserve Components operate family centers on a limited (in many cases virtual)

basis depending on the numbers and concentration of families in a given area.

Military OneSource

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email. For

individuals who need professional assistance for suicide, Military OneSource can provide an assessment

and can provide referrals for counseling and other services. Military OneSource can be contacted

through their website or by phone stateside at 1-800-342-9647.The website lists specific dialing

information for other countries.
- 254 -

Reintegration Phase

Behavioral health counseling through TRICARE

Service members, family members, and retirees who are TRICARE beneficiaries and are experiencing

symptoms of stress, depression, grief, or anxiety are eligible to receive outpatient behavioral health care

services. TRICARE covers outpatient psychotherapy at a maximum of two sessions per week in any

combination of individual, family, collateral, or group sessions. More information on TRICARE-covered

outpatient behavioral health counseling is available on the TRICARE Mental Health and Behavior website.

Behavioral health counseling through military treatment facilities 

Military treatment facilities (MTF) offer counseling services on site by military behavioral health

professionals and doctors. Service members exhibiting high levels of distress, emotional or behavioral

symptoms interfering with everyday functioning, or threatening harm to themselves or others should

be immediately referred to the MTF for a psychological evaluation. The nearest MTF can be found

through the TRICARE MTF locator.

Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment counseling

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers readjustment counseling to service members who

served in any combat zone and their family members through Vet Centers across the country. The

VA provides a wide range of services including individual counseling, group counseling, marital and

family counseling, bereavement counseling, medical referrals, assistance in applying for VA benefits,

employment counseling, alcohol/drug assessments, information and referral to community resources,

military sexual trauma counseling and referral, and outreach and community education. Eligible

beneficiaries can contact the Vet Centers by phone at 1-800-905-4675 (Eastern) and 1-866-496-8838

(Pacific) or through the Vet Center website.

Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury Outreach Center

The Defense Centers of Excellence (DCoE) for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury runs a

resource center that provides information and resources about psychological health (PH), posttraumatic

stress disorder (PTSD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI) to service members, families, friends, military

leaders, clinicians, educators, support personnel, clergy, researchers, and deployed government civilians.

The DCoE Outreach Center provides in-depth information and resources related to the spectrum of

PH matters and TBI and assists service members, veterans, and their families by connecting them with

the resources they need to promote their resilience, recovery, and reintegration. The DCoE Outreach

Center is staffed by health consultants and nurses with background expertise in PH and TBI. In

addition to the website, the DCoE Outreach Center is available by phone and email twenty-four hours a

day and can be reached at 1-866-966-1020 or resources@dcoeoutreach.org.
- 255 -

Reintegration Phase

Military Pathways

Military Pathways provides free, anonymous behavioral health and alcohol self-assessments for family

members and service members in all branches including the National Guard and Reserve. Military

Pathways is available online, over the phone, and at special events held at installations worldwide. Selfassessments include a series of questions that, when linked together, help create a picture of how an

individual is feeling and whether they could benefit from talking to a health professional. The primary

goals of the program are to reduce stigma, to raise awareness about behavioral health, and to connect

those in need to available resources. The self-assessments address depression, PTSD, generalized anxiety

disorder, alcohol use, and bipolar disorder.

Suicide Prevention Resource Center 

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) promotes the implementation of the National

Strategy for Suicide Prevention and enhances the nation’s behavioral health infrastructure by providing

states, government agencies, private organizations, colleges and universities, and suicide survivor and

behavioral health consumer groups with access to the science and experience that can support their

efforts to develop programs, implement interventions, and promote policies to prevent suicide. The

SPRC website also includes information on state and local prevention resources.
M I L I T A R Y

Deployment Guide

Appendices

Appendix A Acronyms ....................................................................................................................... 257

Appendix B Applicable Websites.................................................................................................... 268

Deployment Overview Websites................................................................................................... 268

Pre-deployment Phase Websites................................................................................................. 271

Deployment Phase Websites........................................................................................................ 298

Post Deployment Phase Websites................................................................................................ 306

Reintegration Phase Websites..................................................................................................... 324

Appendix C Related Publications................................................................................................... 333

Deployment Overview Publications............................................................................................. 333

Pre-Deployment Phase Publications............................................................................................ 335

Deployment Phase Publications.................................................................................................. 342

Post Deployment Phase Publications........................................................................................... 347

Reintegration Phase Publications................................................................................................ 359
- 257 -

Military Deployment Guide

Appendix A Acronyms

A&A Aid and Attendance

ABA American Bar Association

ACAP Army Career and Alumni Program

ACE Ask, Care, Escort

ACES Army Continuing Education System

ACS Army Community Services

AER Army Emergency Relief

AF Form Air Force Form

AFAS Air Force Aid Society

AFCA Air Force Communications Agency

AFEC Air Force Virtual Education Center

AFES Armed Forces Emergency Services

AFLA Armed Forces Legal Assistance

AFMAOC Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center

AFMOA Air Force Medical Operations Agency

AFPC Air Force Personnel Center

AFRC

A&FRPM

Air Force Reserve Command

Airman and Family Readiness Program Manager

AFSVA Air Force Services Agency

AFTB Army Family Team Building

ALTFCM Army Long Term Family Case Management
- 258 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

AMC Army Materiel Command

AOR Area of Responsibility

AP Advanced Placement

APO Air/Army Post Office

ARNG Army National Guard

ASPYN Army School-Age Program in Your Neighborhood

ASYMCA Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association

ATM Automated Teller Machine

AW2 Army Wounded Warrior Program

AWOL Absence Without Leave

BAH Basic Allowance for Housing

BAS Basic Allowance for Subsistence

BBB Better Business Bureau

BFCS Beneficiary Financial Counseling Service

CAC Common Access Card

CAP Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program

CBBB Council of Better Business Bureau

CCAF Community College of the Air Force

CD Certificate of Deposit

CEI Civilian Employment Information

CGEA Children’s Grief Education Association

CGMA Coast Guard Mutual Assistance

CHAMPVA Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs

CHCBP Continued Health Care Benefit Program

CIWD Condition Interfered with Duty

CMAOC Casualty and Mortuary Affairs Operations Center

COLA Cost of Living Adjustment
- 259 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

CONUS Continental United States

COSC Combat Operational Stress Control

CRDP Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay

CRSC Combat–Related Special Compensation

CTAMF Coming Together Around Military Families

CTAP Casualty Travel Assistance Program

CYB-MFLCs Children and Youth Behavioral Military and Family Life Counselors

CYP Child and Youth Programs

CYSS Child, Youth, and School Services

DA Department of the Army

DANTES Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support

DAV Disabled American Veterans

DCoE Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic

Brain Injury

DCS Deployment Cycle Support

DD Form Department of Defense Form

DDESS Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools

DDESS-G Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools – Guam

DEA Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance

DEERS Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System

DFAS Defense Finance Accounting Service

DIC Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

DMDC Defense Manpower Data Center

DoD Department of Defense

DoDDS-E Department of Defense Schools – Europe

DoDDS-P Department of Defense Schools – Pacific

DoDEA Department of Defense Education Activity
- 260 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

DOL Department of Labor

DPHW Directorate of Health Promotion and Wellness

DSN Defense Switch Network

DSO Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office

EAP Employee Assistance Program

ECHO Extended Care Health Option

ECRC Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center

EFM Exceptional Family Member

EFMP Exceptional Family Member Program

EPTS Existed Prior to Service

ESGR Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

FEHB Federal Employee Health Benefits

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

FFSC Fleet and Family Support Center

FFSP Fleet and Family Support Program

FHPPP Force Health Protection Prescription Product

FINRA Financial Industry Regulatory Authority

FMWRC Army Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Command

FPO Fleet Post Office

FRED Family Readiness through Education on Deployments

FRG Family Readiness Group

FRO Family Readiness Officer

FSA Family Separation Allowance

FSA–R Family Separation Allowance – Restricted

FSA-S Family Separation Allowance – Ship

FSA-T Family Separation Allowance – Temporary

FSGLI Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance
- 261 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

FTC Federal Trade Commission

GED General Educational Development

GSW Gold Star Wives of America

HB Housebound

HDSP Hardship

HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

HQMC Headquarters Marine Corps

HRC Army Human Resources Command

IA Individual Augmentee

IADT Initial Active Duty for Training

ID Card Identification Card

IMA Individual Mobilization Augmentee

IMM International Mail Manual

ING Inactive National Guard

IRA Individual Retirement Account

IRR Individual Ready Reserve

IRS Internal Revenue Service

ITO Invitation Travel Order

JAG Judge Advocate General

JFHQ Joint Forces Headquarters

JFSAP Joint Family Support Assistance Program

LAMP Legal Assistance for Military Personnel

LES Leave and Earnings Statement

LOD Line of Duty

M4L-IS Marine for Life Injured Support Program

MARS

MARFORRES

Military Affiliates Radio System

Marine Force Reserves
- 262 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

MCCS Marine Corps Community Services

MCEC Military Child Education Coalition

MCFTB Marine Corps Family Team Building

MCO Marine Corps Order

MDTF Military Dental Treatment Facility

MEP Military Entrance Processing

MFLC Military and Family Life Counselor

MFSC Marine and Family Services Center

MGIB Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty

MGIB-SR Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve

MHSA Mental Health Self-Assessment

MobCom Marine Corps Mobilization Command

MotoMail Motivational Mail System

MPSA Military Postal Service Agency

MREIDL Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan

MRE Meal Ready to Eat

MSCCN Military Spouse Corporate Career Network

MSPB Merit Systems Protection Board

MTF Military Treatment Facility

MTL Mobile Technology Lab

MTU Mobilization Training Unit

MWR Morale, Welfare, and Recreation

MyCAA Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts

MYOM Military Youth on the Move

NACCRRA National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies

NAF Non-Appropriated Fund

NAVPERS Bureau of Naval Personnel
- 263 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

NCA National Cemetery Administration

NCMCRS Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society

NCP Navy College Program

NDMS National Disaster Medical System

NFCC National Foundation for Credit Counseling

NFMA National Military Family Association

NLSO Navy Legal Service Office

NMCRS Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society

NMFA National Military Family Association

NRD National Resource Directory

NSPI National Suicide Prevention Initiative

NVLSP National Veterans Legal Services Program

OAG Office of the Attorney General

OCONUS Outside the Continental United States

OEF Operation Enduring Freedom

OHA Overseas Housing allowance

OMCC Operation Military Child Care

OMK

OND

Operation Military Kids

Operation New Dawn

OPSEC Operations Security

OSC Office of Special Counsel

OSGLI Office of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance

PAC

PAO

Pay Allowance Continuation

Public Affairs Officer

PAP Personnel Assistance Point

PAT-HAH Parents as Teachers – Heroes at Home

PBS Public Broadcasting System
- 264 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

PCS Permanent Change of Station

PDHA Pre-Deployment Health Assessment

PDHA Post Deployment Health Assessment

PDHRA Post Deployment Health Reassessment

PDS Permanent Duty Station

PDTATAC Per Diem, Travel, and Transportation Allowance Committee

PEB Physical Evaluation Board

PFC Personal Financial Counselor

PFM Personal Financial Manager

PFMP Personal Financial Management Program

PH Psychological Health

PMC Presidential Memorial Certificate

POW Prisoners of War

PPP Priority Placement Programs

Project FOCUS Project Families Overcoming Under Stress

Project YES Project Youth Extension Service

PTSD Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

PX Post Exchange

R&R Rest and Recuperation

RAPIDS Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System

RCSBP Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan

RD Rear Detachment

RDC Rear Detachment Commander

REAP Reserve Educational Assistance Program

REFRAD Release from Active Duty

ROTC Reserve Officer Training Corps

RSPA Requested split pay amount
- 265 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

SAMHSA Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

SBA Small Business Administration

SBP Survivor Benefit Plan

SCRA Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

SDP

SFPD

Savings Deposit Program

State Family Program Director

SGLI Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance

SHAD Shipboard Hazard and Defense

SLA Special Leave Accrual

SMC Special Monthly Compensation

SOC Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges

SOCAD Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges Army

SOCCOAST Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges Coast Guard

SOCGuard Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges National Guard

SOCMAR Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges Marine Corps

SOCNAV Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges Navy

SOMK Speak Out For Military Kids

SOS Survivor Outreach Services

SPRC Suicide Prevention Resource Center

SSA Social Security Administration

SSB Special Separation Benefit

SSI Supplemental Security Income

TAMP Transitional Assistance Management Program

TAPS Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Inc.

TBI Traumatic Brain Injury

TDD Telecommunications Device for the Deaf

TDP TRICARE Dental Program
- 266 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

TGRO TRICARE Global Remote Overseas

TLC Talk, Listen, Connect

TRDP TRICARE Retiree Dental Program

TRIAP TRICARE Assistance Program

TSGLI Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection

TSP Thrift Savings Plan

TYY Teletypewriter

UAU United States Army Reserve Command (USARC) Augmentation Unit

UPFRP Unit, Personal, and Family Readiness Program

USARC United States Army Reserve Command

USAREUR United States Army Europe

USCENTCOM United States Central Command

USCG United States Coast Guard

USERRA Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act

USFHP United States Family Health Plan

USNR United States Navy Reserve

USO United Service Organizations

USPS United States Postal Service

USSOUTHCOM United States Southern Command

VA Department of Veterans Affairs

VASRD Department of Veterans Affairs Schedule for Rating Disabilities

VEAP Veterans Educational Assistance Program

VETS Veterans’ Employment and Training Service

vFRG Virtual Family Readiness Group

VFW Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

VGLI Veterans’ Group Life Insurance

VSI Voluntary Separation Incentive
- 267 -

Appendix A – Acronyms

WFAC Warrior and Family Assistance Center

WTU Warrior Transition Unit

WWP Wounded Warrior Project

WWRC Wounded Warrior Resource Center

YMCA Young Men’s Christian Association

ZIP Zone Improvement Plan
- 268 -

Military Deployment Guide

Appendix B Applicable Websites

The following websites can provide service members and their families additional information on the

topics addressed in this guide.

Deployment Overview Websites

Government and military websites

Department of Defense (DoD) Yellow Ribbon Program provides National Guard and Reserve members

and their families with information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout

the deployment cycle.

The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs serves as a Principal Staff Assistant

to the Secretary of Defense with responsibility for overall supervision of matters which involve the

Reserve Components. The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs website

provides information on National Guard and Reserve mobilization.

After Deployment (AD), a jointly developed website by the DoD and the Department of Veterans

Affairs (VA), is a behavioral health web portal focused on post deployment health problems. AD’s

intended outreach includes active duty service members, veterans, and their families. It also presents

particular advantages for National Guard and Reserve units not located near a military treatment

facility (MTF) or otherwise located in areas lacking providers who are knowledgeable about militaryrelated adjustment concerns. AD’s twelve programs focus on Adjusting to War Memories, Dealing

with Depression, Handling Stress, Improving Relationships, Succeeding at Work, Overcoming Anger,

Sleeping Better, Controlling Alcohol and Drugs, Helping Kids Deal with Deployment, Seeking

Spiritual Fitness, Living with Physical Injuries, and Balancing Your Life.

Project Families Overcoming Under Stress (FOCUS) is designed to help service members and families

address the impact of multiple deployments, combat stress, and high operational tempo on children and

families. The program has received extremely positive feedback from commanders, program managers,

members and families, and has shown significant positive impacts on reduction of conflict behaviors

and emotional symptoms in children and has also resulted in an increase in their positive behaviors. At

the installation level, Project FOCUS is considered another service within the overall family support
- 269 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

umbrella continuum of care, typically provided through the installation family center. Project FOCUS is

currently available only on select Marine Corps and Navy installations.

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life. Available

deployment support materials include explanations of military benefits, managing stress associated with

deployment, coping with deployments and reunions, and deployment topics for single service members.

MilitaryHOMEFRONT Deployment Connections is an online handbook for coping with deployment.

It is intended to make it easier to find deployment-related information and support services for active

and reserve military members and their families during all phases of deployment and mobilization.

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation mobilization and deployment programs can be found under the program or

service “Deployment/Mobilization.”

Military Youth on the Move (MYOM) is an easy to use resource that reaches out to military youth with

creative ways to cope with issues that arise in the face of a move, such as transitioning to a new school,

saying goodbye to friends, and getting involved in a new community. In addition to supporting military

children during a relocation, MYOM provides information designed to help children cope during a

deployment. The website is divided into three target audiences: elementary school children, middle

school children, and high school children.

Yellow Ribbon America unites Americans, motivating and assisting America’s communities to give

direct support to their local military members and their families. Yellow Ribbon America provides the

national framework to organize America’s cities and towns, delivering immediate and direct support

to America’s deployed and returning military personnel and their families. The Deployed Military

Members & Family Support Program organizes community outreach events to help communities

welcome home military members and thank their families for their sacrifices.

Army Mobilization and Deployment Assistance provides information and assistance to Soldiers and

Family members to maintain individual readiness throughout the entire deployment cycle.

Army Reserve Virtual Mobilization and Deployment Brief provides information on what to expect

during the deployment, how to get military identification cards (ID cards), available military and

community resources, finances and more.

Army Deployment Cycle Support (DCS) Program is a comprehensive process that ensures Soldiers,

Department of the Army (DA) civilians and their families are better prepared and sustained throughout
- 270 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

the deployment cycle. It provides a means to identify Soldiers, DA civilians, and families who may need

assistance with the challenges inherent to extended deployments.

Army Human Resources Command (HRC) Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA) Program

facilitates the rapid expansion of the Active Army wartime structure of the DoD or other departments

or agencies of the United States government to meet military manpower requirements in the event of

military contingency, pre-mobilization, mobilization, sustainment or demobilization operations. Website

requires Common Access Card (CAC) login.

Army Reserve Individual Ready Reserve (IRR), IMA, United States Army Reserve Command

(USARC) Augmentation Unit (UAU), and Individual Augmentee (IA) provides information and

announcements for Army Reserve service members and their families who deploy under any of these

programs.

Marine Corps Deployment Support provides support to Marines and their families throughout the

entire deployment cycle with programs and activities designed to address specific pre-, during-, and post

deployment issues and challenges.

IMA Program, Marine Corps Mobilization Command (MobCom) is the sole administrative provider

for members of the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR), IMAs, Mobilization Training Unit (MTU)

members, and the Standby Reserves in the Marine Corps. MobCom provides ready Marines for

individual augmentation to both active and reserve missions and assists Marine Forces Reserve in

mobilizing rapidly and efficiently.

Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) serves Marines and their families by providing programs

and services for social and recreational opportunities, prevention and intervention programs, programs

designed to strengthen families, and business programs such as the Marine Corps Exchange. The

MCCS website provides comprehensive deployment support information and resources.

Navy Deployment Readiness provides information and support to ensure that Sailors and their families

are ready for deployments.

United States Navy IA Sailor, Family, Command, and Employer website is designed to connect IA

Sailors, their families, their commands, and their employers to mobilization information. The website

identifies resources to help provide support throughout the IA Continuum (Pre-deployment, Man,

Train, and Equip, Boots on Ground, and Re-deployment [de-mobilization] phases).

Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center (ECRC), Navy Expeditionary Combat Command directly

assists IA Sailors by ensuring that they are properly uniformed and equipped while coordinating with

the Army or Marine Corps to ensure they receive the proper stateside training. Training includes

instruction in individual combat skills and specialized mission areas to help them succeed and keep them
- 271 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

as safe as possible while deployed. The ECRC website provides information about the IA deployment

cycle and about family support services for IA families.

Armed Forces Crossroads Family Separations provides information and resources for Airmen and their

families on pre-deployment, sustainment (during deployment), and reintegration (reunion).

Air Force Community, Personal and Family Readiness provides information to Airmen and their

families to help them get through the pre-deployment, deployment, and homecoming of a deployed

service member.

Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) provides the United States Air Force about 20 percent of its

capability with only about 4 percent of the total Air Force budget. AFRC also supports space, flight

test, special operations, aerial port operations, civil engineer, security forces, intelligence, military

training, communications, mobility support, transportation and services missions. The command is also

administratively responsible for all the Air Force’s individual mobilization augmentees.

Pre-deployment Phase Websites

Preparing Personal Affairs for Deployment Websites

Administrative Affairs Preparations Websites

Government and military websites

The Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) includes over twenty-three million

records pertaining to active duty and reserve military and their family members, military retired,

Department of Defense (DoD) civil service personnel, and DoD contractors. The DEERS system

provides accurate and timely information for supporting DoD Identification cards (ID cards). The

Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) application provides on-line access to

information in the DEERS database. Eligible persons may be issued their ID cards at over 900 RAPIDS

sites in twenty-three different countries.

DoD Military and Civilian Passport Matters assists all DoD Passport Agents and their customers in

processing official “no-fee” passports and visa requests.

United States Department of State, Passports provides information on applying for and renewing

passports for United States citizens. The website also provides current detail on the related fees,

processing times, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) provides an overview of the program, coverage amounts,

cost, and additional information.
- 272 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Legal Affairs Preparations Websites

Government and military websites

The Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFLA) is a joint effort of the legal assistance divisions of the

Judge Advocate Generals’ ( JAG) Corps of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

The AFLA website provides service members and their families with an overview of legal assistance

topics and an online tool for locating the nearest Legal Assistance office for consultation with a Legal

Assistance attorney.

United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces exercises appellate jurisdiction over service

members on active duty as well as any other person who is subject to the Uniform Code of Military

Justice. The Court addresses a wide range of legal topics relating to service members including

constitutional law, administrative law, criminal law, ethics, and national security law.

Army Legal Services provides general information, legal planning and toolkits, and answers to frequently

asked questions for Soldiers, family members, and other eligible clients.

Legal Assistance Branch, Staff Judge Advocate to the Commandant of the Marine Corps provides links

to various legal topics (e.g., advisories, scams, citizenship/immigration information, etc.).

Navy Legal Service Office (NLSO) provides legal assistance services for active duty service members,

their family members, certain National Guard and Reserve service members, and retirees. In addition

to legal assistance, the individual NLSO regions often provide legal-related services, such as defense/

personal representation, claims processing, and income tax-related services.

JAG United States Air Force is responsible for all legal matters for the United States Air Force including

legal assistance services for active duty service members, their families, certain National Guard and

Reserve service members, and retirees.

Coast Guard Legal Assistance provides information on various legal assistance topics including

consumer and contract matters, creditor and debtor relations, family law, and wills and estate planning.

Community–based websites

American Bar Association (ABA) Standing Committee on Legal Assistance for Military Personnel

(LAMP) manages Operation Enduring LAMP, a consortium of state and local bar associations that

recruit volunteer attorneys to assist military Legal Assistance attorneys with civil law cases affecting

service members.

The Council of Better Business Bureau (CBBB) Military Line is designed to support service members,

retirees, DoD civilians, and their families by providing information to protect them from unscrupulous
- 273 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

business practices. Visitors to the site can view reports on businesses and charities, file complaints, view

information related to specific Service branches, and search for local Better Business Bureau (BBB)

branches by Zone Improvement Plan (ZIP) code or military installation.

Military Consumer Sentinel is a joint initiative of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the DoD

designed to help improve consumer protection for service members, their families, and DoD civilians.

The Consumer Sentinel website allows eligible visitors to file consumer complaints, which are used by

over 500 law enforcement organizations to target cases for prosecution and other enforcement measures.

The National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP) is an independent, nonprofit, charitable

organization acting to ensure that the United States government honors the pact made with its veterans.

Along with advocacy, education, and training, the NVLSP oversees a consortium of four organizations,

which provide pro bono legal representation for veterans appealing the Department of Veterans Affairs

(VA) decision to deny benefits.

VetsFirst directly serves the needs of the veteran community through a network of National Service

Officers providing assistance and representation in claims for benefits and services before the VA and

other federal and state agencies, and legal representation before the United States Court of Appeals for

Veterans Claims. 

Financial Affairs Preparations Websites

Government and military websites

Defense Finance Accounting Service (DFAS) delivers accounting and finance services to the Military

Services, as well as those who support war fighters defending the country. DFAS administers military

and retirement pay for service members and the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP).

DoD Per Diem, Travel, and Transportation Allowance Committee (PDTATAC) issues uniform

guidance and policy on allowances including current rates for basic allowance for housing (BAH), cost

of living adjustment (COLA) within the continental United States (CONUS), overseas COLA, and

overseas housing allowance (OHA).

Internal Revenue Service (IRS), United States Department of the Treasury provides a wealth of tax

information directly targeted to members of the military.

MyPay is an automated online system that allows service members to access their current and certain

past leave and earnings statements (LESs) twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Using MyPay,

service members can also view tax statements and change certain discretionary pay data items, such as

direct deposit allotments, without using paper forms.
- 274 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email.

Military OneSource provides up to twelve free financial counseling sessions by phone or in person per

issue and per calendar year and per eligible client. Eligible clients include active duty service members,

National Guard and Reserve service members (regardless of activation status), and their families.

MilitaryHOMEFRONT is the official DoD website for quality of life programmatic and policy

information. The Personal Financial Management section provides an overview of financial readiness,

benefits and entitlements information, and links to other financial planning/readiness resources.

The Military Saves Campaign, sponsored by DoD with the Consumer Federation of America, provides

service members with the necessary tools to develop and maintain a savings plan. It is a free service

designed to assist service members in reaching their financial goals, reducing and eliminating debt, and

learning more about wealth-building and savings.

Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a retirement savings plan for civilians who are employed by the United

States government and members of the uniformed services.

TurboTAP, a DoD-sponsored website, provides active duty, National Guard and Reserve service

members, and their families with the resources and assistance they need when transitioning on and off of

active duty. TurboTAP provides a wealth of information in three basic topic areas: money, benefits, and

jobs.

Beneficiary Financial Counseling Service (BFCS) is an additional benefit offered to beneficiaries

of SGLI and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) policies, as well as Servicemembers’ Group

Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) claimants. Beneficiaries or claimants can take

advantage of free professional financial advice provided by FinancialPoint®.

Army OneSource Financial Readiness assists Soldiers, civilians, and their families by providing

budgeting and planning calculators, financial news, links to information on retirement planning, online

financial training, and a link to an Internet tool designed to graphically display a visitor’s financial profile.

MyArmyBenefits is the official Army benefits website, providing information and links to federal

and state benefits information, deployment and post deployment financial calculators, and access to

retirement and disability calculators for those with an Army Knowledge Online (AKO) account.

Army National Guard Consumer Affairs and Financial Assistance provides financial education for

Soldiers, civilians, and their families through classes, training, or information.

Army Reserve Family Programs Financial Readiness provides information and assistance to members

of the Army Reserve on a variety of family programs and services. The website provides information on
- 275 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

financial planning, financial readiness training, the TSP, and taxes. Website requires Common Access

Card (CAC) login.

Army Emergency Relief (AER) is a nonprofit organization that assists Soldiers and their family

members, including spouses of deployed Soldiers, by providing emergency financial assistance when

there is a valid need. AER provides interest-free loans, grants, or combinations of the two.

Marine Corps Personal Financial Management provides eligible personnel with education, training,

counseling, information, and referral for personal financial issues.

Navy Personal Financial Management Program (PFMP) provides information, classes, training, and

counseling to combat financial mismanagement and to provide proactive training to prepare Sailors and

their families for potential financial issues in the future.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides

financial, educational, and other assistance to members of the Navy and Marine Corps, eligible family

members, and survivors when a valid need exists. NMCRS provides interest-free loans and grants to

Sailors, Marines, and their families to meet emergency financial needs.

The Air Force Community Personal Financial Readiness website provides information and links on a

number of financial readiness topics including credit and money management, home and car buying,

personal finance and investing, tax information, and emergency financial assistance.

Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial

assistance to Airmen and their family members. AFAS provides grants and interest-free loans to Airmen

and their families who demonstrate an emergency financial need related to basic living expenses, medical

care, funeral expenses, respite care, vehicle repairs, assistance with other emergencies, pay/allotment

problems, and disaster relief. AFAS also provides assistance to surviving dependents.

The Coast Guard Financial Management Program provides members of Team Coast Guard (active

duty, Reserve, retirees, family members, civil service employees, and exchange system and morale,

welfare, and recreation employees) with practical information and financial planning tools.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides financial

assistance to members of the Coast Guard community during times of need. Through interest-free loans,

personal grants, and confidential financial counseling and referral services, CGMA provides assistance to

persons associated with the Coast Guard who demonstrate a financial need.
- 276 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Community–based websites

The American Red Cross works under partnership agreements with the AER, NMCRS, AFAS, and

CGMA to provide quality, reliable financial assistance to eligible applicants for emergency travel, burial

of a loved one, assistance to avoid privation, etc.

The Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) Family Emergency Supplies

Program provides assistance for families experiencing financial distress, as does the Food for

Families Program.

Save and Invest is a resource facilitated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)

Investor Education Foundation, an official DoD financial readiness partner, and features resources, tools,

and tips on how to manage finances. 

The United Service Organizations (USO) is a private, nonprofit organization supporting service

members and their families by providing morale, welfare, and recreation-type services. USO centers offer

housing and financial information and support to military families during emergencies.

Employment Affairs Preparations Websites

Government and military websites

DoD Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program provides up to $4,000 of

financial assistance to spouses married to active duty, National Guard, or Reserve service members in

pay grades E1-E5, W1-W2, and O1-O2 who are pursuing licenses, credentials, or an Associate’s degree

leading to portable career employment. The service member must be on active duty, Title 10 military

orders in order for the spouse to receive this benefit.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a DoD organization operated through a

network of volunteers in local ESGR committees in each state, the District of Columbia, Guam,

Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. ESGR works to educate civilian employers and communities about

the National Guard and Reserve through a comprehensive outreach program known as the Civilian

Employment Information (CEI) Initiative. ESGR works with employers and communities to promote

the development of personnel policies designed to accommodate members of the uniformed Services

and assists military units in promoting and maintaining positive relationships between employers and

National Guard and Reserve employees. ESGR educates service members about their obligations to

their employers and their rights under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights

Act (USERRA). ESGR also assists them in preventing, resolving, or reducing employer/employee

problems and misunderstandings related to USERRA through mediation and ombudsman services.

Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) provides assistance

to persons with respect to employment and reemployment rights and benefits under USERRA including
- 277 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

outreach activities, USERRA briefings, the USERRA advisor, the e-VETS Resource Advisor, and other

web-based materials.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster

Loan (MREIDL) program to provide funds to eligible small businesses to meet their ordinary and

necessary operating expenses that they could have met, but were unable to meet, because an essential

employee was called-up to active duty in their role as a National Guard or Reserve service member.

Preparing Families for Deployment Websites

Preparing Families for Deployment

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is an agency within the United States Department

of Homeland Security that provides support citizens and first responders to ensure that they work

together to build, sustain, and improve capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from,

and mitigate all hazards.

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email.

Military OneSource provides up to twelve free financial counseling sessions per issue and per calendar

year and per eligible client. Eligible clients include active duty service members, National Guard and

Reserve service members (regardless of activation status), and their families.

Army Family Readiness Group (FRG) provides a direct link from family members to the command

for units, ensuring that family members are aware of relevant information and resources for their unit.

Family members may use the installation FRG or the virtual FRG (vFRG), an Internet-based system

that provides all the functionality of a traditional FRG but allows geographically dispersed units and

family members to access information about their unit.

Army Reserve FRG membership includes Soldiers’ families, both immediate and extended, Soldiers,

and other interested parties such as fiancés, friends, retirees, employers, and community members. The

goal of the FRG is to establish a network that enables family members to effectively gather information,

resolve problems, and maintain mutual support, thereby reducing stress associated with military life.

Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) is an integral part of a Marine Corps unit family

readiness program. It provides educational resources and services to foster personal growth and enhance

the readiness of Marine Corps families.

Unit, Personal, and Family Readiness Program (UPFRP) provides resource information and training

in addition to support services to enhance a Marine personal and family readiness. A Marine must
- 278 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

ensure their personal and family affairs are in order so that they will remain fully focused on the mission,

whether in garrison or in combat. 

Navy Ombudsman is a volunteer, appointed by the commanding officer, to serve as an information link

between command leadership and Navy families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information

both up and down the chain of command, including official Department of the Navy and command

information, command climate issues, local quality of life improvement opportunities, and “good deals”

around the community. An ombudsman also provides resource referrals when needed and helps resolve

family issues whenever possible without involving command.

The United States Navy Reserve (USNR) Ombudsman Online provides information for activated

and mobilized Reserve Sailors including topics pertaining to child care for deployed Sailors. The Navy

Ombudsman program can help Navy Reserve service members find information related to child care and

child care resources in their local communities.

Air Force Reserve Family Readiness Office (FRO) provides families of deployed Reserve service

members with services including video telephones, crisis intervention assistance, volunteer opportunities,

reunion activities, information and referral services to appropriate support agencies, assistance with

financial questions and concerns, telephone tree roster for communication to the families from the unit,

family support groups, morale calls, letter-writing kits for children, and access to email.

Coast Guard Ombudsmen are appointed by their respective commands, support command policy, and

efficiently work with command and the active duty Coast Guard service members and their families.

Housing Decisions for Families Websites

Government and military websites

DoD Per Diem, Travel, and Transportation Allowance Committee (PDTATAC) issues uniform

guidance and policy on allowances including current rates for basic allowance for housing (BAH), cost

of living adjustment (COLA) within the continental United States (CONUS), overseas COLA, and

overseas housing allowance (OHA).

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation housing offices can be found under the program or service “Housing Office/

Government Housing.”

Army Housing OneStop is the primary website for Army housing information. The site provides an

alphabetical listing of Army Housing Office contact information and includes resources such as floor
- 279 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

plans, photos, housing allowance information, frequently asked questions, and other housing program

information.

Navy/Marine Corps Housing OneStop provides comprehensive and quick-reference military housing

information for over eighty Navy and seventeen Marine Corps installations worldwide. It includes floor

plans, photo tours, policies and procedures, programs and services, waiting list information, BAH/OHA

information, forms, contact information, and maps.

Key Organizations for Preparing Families for Deployment Websites

Key Military Organizations to Prepare for Deployment Websites

Military ombudsman networks/family readiness groups (FRGs)

Army FRG provides a direct link from family members to the command for units, ensuring that

family members are aware of relevant information and resources for their unit. Family members may

use the installation FRG or the virtual FRG (vFRG), an Internet-based system that provides all the

functionality of a traditional FRG but allows geographically dispersed units and family members to

access information about their unit.

Army OneSourceis the website of Army Community Service (ACS), the organization that provides

family programs and services to members of the Army. This website offers a variety of information,

links, services, and resources for Soldiers, family members, staff, and civilians.The website includes

information on managing deployments, home and family life, and personal financial management. ACS

centers located on almost all Army installations provide comprehensive pre-deployment support to

service members and their families.

Army Reserve FRG membership includes Soldiers’ families, both immediate and extended, Soldiers,

and other interested parties such as fiancés, friends, retirees, employers, and community members. The

goal of the FRG is to establish a network that enables family members to effectively gather information,

resolve problems, and maintain mutual support, thereby reducing stress associated with military life.

Unit, Personal, and Family Readiness Program (UPFRP) provides resource information and training

in addition to support services to enhance a Marine personal and family readiness. A Marine must

ensure their personal and family affairs are in order so that they will remain fully focused on the mission,

whether in garrison or in combat. 

Navy Ombudsman is a volunteer, appointed by the commanding officer, to serve as an information link

between command leadership and Navy families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information

both up and down the chain of command, including official Department of the Navy and command

information, command climate issues, local quality of life improvement opportunities, and “good deals”
- 280 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

around the community. An ombudsman also provides resource referrals when needed and helps resolve

family issues whenever possible without involving command.

The United States Navy Reserve (USNR) Ombudsman Online provides information for activated

and mobilized Reserve Sailors including topics pertaining to child care for deployed Sailors. The Navy

Ombudsman program can help Navy Reserve service members find information related to child care and

child care resources in their local communities.

Air Force Reserve Family Readiness Office (FRO) provides families of deployed Reserve service

members with services including video telephones, crisis intervention assistance, volunteer opportunities,

reunion activities, information and referral services to appropriate support agencies, assistance with

financial questions and concerns, telephone tree roster for communication to the families from the unit,

family support groups, morale calls, letter-writing kits for children, and access to email.

Coast Guard Ombudsmen are appointed by their respective commands, support command policy, and

efficiently work with command and the active duty Coast Guard service members and their families.

Family Training Programs

Army Family Team Building (AFTB) empowers individuals, maximizing their personal growth and

professional development through specialized training, transforming the military community into a

resilient and strong foundation.

Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) is an integral part of a Marine Corps unit family

readiness program. It provides educational resources and services to foster personal growth and enhance

the readiness of Marine Corps families.

Navy Life Skills Program provides classes and reading material to develop skills to make living the Navy

lifestyle easier. Life skills classes include anger management, couples communication, spouse trained and

ready, parenting, stress management, and suicide awareness.

Air Force Community works collaboratively to build stronger communities that promote self-sufficiency

and enhance mission readiness, retention and adaptation to the Air Force way of life.

Chaplains

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation chapels can be found under the program or service “Chapels.”
- 281 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Army Chaplaincy provides spiritual and religious support to Soldiers and their families across the active

and reserve components of the Army. Army chaplains provide families with counseling and family

readiness programs, such as the Strong Bonds program, to help strengthen their resiliency.

Navy Chaplain Care provides religious ministry and pastoral care to Sailors, Marines, and their families

to maintain spiritual, moral, and ethical readiness.

Air Force Chaplain Agency provides pastoral care to Airmen and their families. Chaplain services can

provide spiritual guidance for Airmen and their families and help to strengthen family bonds.

Headquarters and Deputy Chaplain of the Coast Guard provides pastoral care to members of the Coast

Guard family. Chaplain services can provide spiritual guidance for Coast Guard members and their

families and help to strengthen family bonds.

Family Centers

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email.

Military OneSource also offers face-to-face counseling services for short-term, non-medical concerns

such as improving relationships at home and at work, marital issues, grief and loss issues (normal

reactions that would benefit from short-term support), and adjusting to a change in situation (such as a

return from deployment or permanent change of duty station).

MilitaryHOMEFRONT is the official Department of Defense (DoD) website for quality of life

information for leaders, service providers, and troops and family members. The Troops and Family

Members section of the website has comprehensive information and links on a number of topics

including deployment, combat stress, casualty assistance, counseling, Uniformed Services Employment

and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), and transition assistance.

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation family centers can be found under the program or service “Family Center.”

TurboTAP is a DoD-sponsored website that provides information and support services to military

service members and their families who are transitioning on and off of active duty. Such transitions can

occur at any point in a military career for active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members.

Key information, helpful resources, and easy-to-use online tools address topics such as money, benefits,

and jobs.
- 282 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Army OneSource provides Army families with accurate and up-to-date articles and information on

various topics including customs, home and personal safety, managing deployment, and understanding

military pay.

Army and Air National Guard Virtual Armory provides information on the various programs and

services available to members of the National Guard and their families.

The National Guard’s Family Readiness Program provides National Guard service members and their

families with information and assistance to help ensure they are prepared for whatever may be ahead of

them. To aid families in navigating through military life, the National Guard has developed Six Steps

to Family Readiness, addressing challenges, victories, and support networks available to National Guard

service members and their families.

Army Reserve Family Programs provides information and assistance to members of the Army Reserve

on a variety of family programs and services.

Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) serves Marines and their families by providing programs

and services for social and recreational opportunities, prevention and intervention programs, programs

designed to strengthen families, and business programs such as the Marine Corps Exchange.

Navy Fleet and Family Support Program (FFSP) provides unified, customer-focused, consistent, and

efficient programs and services to support sustained mission and Navy readiness.

The Air Force Personal and Family Readiness Program assists Airmen and their families in coping

with deployments during the pre-deployment stage, during deployment, and when preparing for

homecoming.

Armed Forces Crossroads serves as an information repository for a variety of Airmen and family

programs including deployment support, education, financial readiness, health and wellness, relocation,

and teens and youth.

The Joint Family Support Assistance Program ( JFSAP) delivers high-quality, mobile family support

and services to families facing the same deployment-related challenges as installation-based families,

but whose access to support is more challenging. JFSAP teams have been stood up at all National

Guard state joint force headquarters and operate in collaboration with existing family support resources,

augmenting their activities and filling gaps where they exist. JFSAP teams provide information and

referrals to community services and support, non-medical counseling and education to individuals,

families and groups, child and youth services, financial education and counseling, on-demand support for

deployment events such as reunion ceremonies and pre-deployment meetings, and community capacity

building to support families’ access to local resources and support.
- 283 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Project Youth Extension Service (YES) expands JFSAP resources by engaging college students across

the country for a year-long voluntary service opportunity supporting military families. College students

are trained in relevant curriculum and deployed to different states to provide programming and support

for children and youth. Project YES offers educational programming (curriculum and/or activities) that

is relevant, engaging, hands-on and fun for children or youth. 

Family Centers – mobilization and deployment assistance

Department of Defense (DoD) Yellow Ribbon Program provides National Guard and Reserve members

and their families with information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout

the deployment cycle.

The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs serves as a Principal Staff Assistant

to the Secretary of Defense with responsibility for overall supervision of matters which involve the

Reserve Components. The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs website

provides information on National Guard and Reserve mobilization.

After Deployment (AD), a jointly developed website by the DoD and the Department of Veterans

Affairs (VA), is a behavioral health web portal focused on post deployment health problems. AD’s

intended outreach includes active duty service members, veterans, and their families. It also presents

particular advantages for National Guard and Reserve units not located near a military treatment

facility (MTF) or otherwise located in areas lacking providers who are knowledgeable about militaryrelated adjustment concerns. AD’s twelve programs focus on Adjusting to War Memories, Dealing

with Depression, Handling Stress, Improving Relationships, Succeeding at Work, Overcoming Anger,

Sleeping Better, Controlling Alcohol and Drugs, Helping Kids Deal with Deployment, Seeking

Spiritual Fitness, Living with Physical Injuries, and Balancing Your Life.

Project Families Overcoming Under Stress (FOCUS) is designed to help service members and families

address the impact of multiple deployments, combat stress, and high operational tempo on children and

families. The program has received extremely positive feedback from commanders, program managers,

members and families, and has shown significant positive impacts on reduction of conflict behaviors

and emotional symptoms in children and has also resulted in an increase in their positive behaviors. At

the installation level, Project FOCUS is considered another service within the overall family support

umbrella continuum of care, typically provided through the installation family center. Project FOCUS is

currently available only on select Marine Corps and Navy installations.

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life. Available

deployment support materials include explanations of military benefits, managing stress associated with

deployment, coping with deployments and reunions, and deployment topics for single service members.
- 284 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

MilitaryHOMEFRONT Deployment Connections is an online handbook for coping with deployment.

It is intended to make it easier to find deployment-related information and support services for active

and reserve military members and their families during all phases of deployment and mobilization.

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation mobilization and deployment programs can be found under the program or

service “Deployment/Mobilization.”

Military Youth on the Move (MYOM) is an easy to use resource that reaches out to military youth with

creative ways to cope with issues that arise in the face of a move, such as transitioning to a new school,

saying goodbye to friends, and getting involved in a new community. In addition to supporting military

children during a relocation, MYOM provides information designed to help children cope during a

deployment. The website is divided into three target audiences: elementary school children, middle

school children, and high school children.

Yellow Ribbon America unites Americans, motivating and assisting America’s communities to give

direct support to their local military members and their families. Yellow Ribbon America provides the

national framework to organize America’s cities and towns, delivering immediate and direct support

to America’s deployed and returning military personnel and their families. The Deployed Military

Members & Family Support Program organizes community outreach events to help communities

welcome home military members and thank their families for their sacrifices.

Army Mobilization and Deployment Assistance provides information and assistance to Soldiers and

Family members to maintain individual readiness throughout the entire deployment cycle.

Army Reserve Virtual Mobilization and Deployment Brief provides information on what to expect

during the deployment, how to get military identification cards (ID cards), available military and

community resources, finances and more.

Marine Corps Deployment Support provides support to Marines and their families throughout the

entire deployment cycle with programs and activities designed to address specific pre-, during-, and post

deployment issues and challenges.

Navy Deployment Readiness provides information and support to ensure that Sailors and their families

are ready for deployments.

Armed Forces Crossroads Family Separations provides information and resources for Airmen and their

families on pre-deployment, sustainment (during deployment), and reintegration (reunion).
- 285 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Air Force Community, Personal and Family Readiness provides information to Airmen and their

families to help them get through the pre-deployment, deployment, and homecoming of a deployed

service member.

Family Centers – personal financial management

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email.

Military OneSource provides up to twelve free financial counseling sessions per issue and per calendar

year and per eligible client. Eligible clients include active duty service members, National Guard and

Reserve service members (regardless of activation status), and their families.

MilitaryHOMEFRONT is the official website for quality of life programmatic and policy information

for the DoD. The Personal Financial Management section provides an overview of financial readiness,

benefits and entitlements information, and links to other financial planning/readiness resources.

Army OneSource Financial Readiness assists Soldiers, civilians, and their families by providing

budgeting and planning calculators, financial news, links to information on retirement planning, online

financial training, and a link to an Internet tool designed to graphically display a visitor’s financial profile.

MyArmyBenefits is the official Army benefits website, providing information and links to federal

and state benefits information, deployment and post deployment financial calculators, and access to

retirement and disability calculators for those with an AKO account.

Army National Guard Consumer Affairs and Financial Assistance provides financial education for

Soldiers, civilians, and their families through classes, training, or information.

Army Reserve Family Programs Financial Readiness provides information and assistance to members

of the Army Reserve on a variety of family programs and services. The website provides information

on financial planning, financial readiness training, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and taxes. Website

requires Common Access Card (CAC) login.

Marine Corps Personal Financial Management provides eligible personnel with education, training,

counseling, information, and referral for personal financial issues.

Navy Personal Financial Management Program (PFMP) provides information, classes, training, and

counseling to combat financial mismanagement and to provide proactive training to prepare Sailors and

their families for potential financial issues in the future.

The Air Force Community Personal Financial Readiness website provides information and links on a

number of financial readiness topics including credit and money management, home and car buying,

personal finance and investing, tax information, and emergency financial assistance.
- 286 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

The Coast Guard Financial Management Program provides members of Team Coast Guard (active

duty, Reserve, retirees, family members, civil service employees, and exchange system and morale,

welfare, and recreation employees) with practical information and financial planning tools.

Family Centers – spouse employment assistance

DoD Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program provides a lifetime benefit of

up to $4,000 of financial assistance for spouses married to active duty or activated National Guard and

Reserve members in pay grades E1-E5, W1-W2 and O1-O2 who are pursuing an associate’s degree, a

license, or a credential necessary for a portable career employment.

DoD Priority Placement Programs (PPP) offers employment preference to DoD employees and military

spouses. Priority Programs apply to both civil service and non-appropriated fund (NAF) positions. The

PPP is an internal program that assists displaced employees in finding employment and was designed

to provide the maximum opportunity for employment for those who are eligible. The PPP includes a

number of different programs, including one specifically geared towards helping military spouses find

jobs after a move called the DoD Military Spouse Preference Program, or Program “S.” Program “S”

ensures that military spouses receive preference for certain competitive service positions in the United

States and its territories.

Military OneSource provides expanded services for military spouses seeking assistance with education

and career-related matters. Military OneSource Spouse Education and Career Consultants assist

with education and training, career exploration, assessment, employment readiness, and career search

assistance. Through the Spouse Education and Career Program, spouses have access to trained education

and career advisers to assist them with the MyCAA application process and other career and education

issues. Military OneSource can be reached through their website or by phone stateside at 1-800-342-

9647. The website lists specific dialing information for other countries.

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation family member employment assistance offices can be found under the

program or service “Employment.”

The Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP) provides transition and job assistance services to

Soldiers and civilian employees and their family members who are separating from the military including

information about the Transition Assistance Program and links to job listings.
- 287 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Army Employment Readiness helps Soldiers and Department of the Army (DA) civilians, and

their family members throughout the entire Military Life Cycle, recruitment through retirement.

Employment Readiness believes that every Army spouse should have a choice and be afforded the

opportunity to develop a career and /or become employed.

DA Family Member Placement Program, also known as Program “F” of the DoD PPP, provides

a systematic referral of current DA employees who are family members of DA civilian or military

personnel involved in a permanent change of station (PCS) from one DA activity to another DA activity

within the United States.

Marine Corps Family Member Employment Assistance assists active duty military family members, as

well as Reserve service members, retirees, and civilians depending on space availability, to achieve their

goals through employment, education, or volunteerism.

Navy Family Employment Readiness Program addresses the career challenges of frequent relocations

associated with the military lifestyle in basic workshops that include topics about launching a job search,

career planning, resume writing, and interview techniques.

Air Force Employment provides information and assistance to Airmen and their families including

self-assessments, networking, resume writing, interviewing, and job-search techniques. 

Coast Guard Spouse Employment Assistance assists spouses in overcoming the difficulties associated

with finding employment, especially during the relocation process. It provides comprehensive and

standardized employment information and services at Work-Life Offices throughout the Coast Guard.

Department of Defense Yellow Ribbon Program is a DoD-wide deployment support and reintegration

program for National Guard and Reserve service members and their families to help them connect

with local resources before, during, and after deployments. Yellow Ribbon events provide information,

services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout the deployment cycle to help

minimize the stress of a deployment and family separation.

Short-term counseling

Military OneSource provides service members and their families with free, non-medical counseling

sessions. Military OneSource consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, by

phone, online, or via email offering personalized support to any service member or family member.

Military OneSource can connect individuals with a trained, state-licensed behavioral health professional

for free confidential/private counseling. Military OneSource offers twelve free counseling sessions per

person, per issue that are short-term, solution-focused, and address a variety of topics such as improving

relationships at home and at work, financial issues, marital issues, grief and loss issues (normal reactions

that would benefit from short-term support), adjusting to a change in situation (such as a return from

deployment or permanent change of duty station), and other issues that are non-medical in nature.
- 288 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

TRICARE Assistance Program (TRIAP) is available to eligible United States beneficiaries and provides

online access to counseling for short-term, non-medical issues. Eligible beneficiaries can access TRIAP

for an unlimited number of times, and services are confidential and non-reportable. Eligible beneficiaries

include active duty service members, active duty family members, Selected Reserve service members and

their families who are enrolled in TRICARE Select, and those covered under the Transitional Assistance

Management Program (TAMP).

Morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR)

Army Family and MWR Command (FMWRC) provides recreation opportunities for Soldiers and

their families through various activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, or

competing in unit-level athletic leagues conducted by the Sports Departments.

Marine Corps Recreation and Fitness offers a wide variety of recreation and fitness programs to provide

Marines and their families with resources to lead active healthy lives.

Navy MWR administers a varied program of recreation, social and community support activities

on United States Navy facilities worldwide. Programs provide active-duty, reserve and retired Navy

personnel and their families with sports and physical fitness activities, child development and youth

programs, and a variety of food and beverage services.

Air Force Services Agency (AFSVA) supports the installations, major commands, and Air Staff by

providing technical assistance, fielding new initiatives, developing procedures, and managing selected

central support functions to ensure successful Services programs.

Coast Guard MWR strives to uplift the spirits of the Coast Guard Family and be an essential element

of Coast Guard readiness and retention through customer-owned and driven MWR programs and

services.

Children and youth programs

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life. Military

OneSource provides web-based information on many topics related to child care and can help locate

child care services. Military OneSource will first direct families to the installation’s child care program if

a family lives on or within thirty minutes of an installation.

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation child care programs can be found under the program or service “Child

Development Centers,” “Children and Youth Registration and Referral,” “Family Child Care/Child

Development Homes,” “School Age Care,” and “Youth Programs/Centers.”
- 289 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Army Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) support the Army Family Covenant by reducing the

conflict between a Soldier’s mission readiness and parental responsibilities. CYSS provides assistance

both on and off post through a variety of affordable, quality care programs for children and youth from

six weeks to eighteen years, as well as sports and instructional programs.

Army Reserve Child and Youth Services provides events, teen classes, and youth camps for children of

Army Reserve Soldiers. The website provides information for children and youth geared towards specific

age groups and has separate content for parents.

Marine Corps Children, Youth, and Teen provides maximum access to useful, flexible, and affordable

programs such as child development, social, recreational, and athletic programs. Children, youth and

teens, ages six weeks to eighteen years, are served in integrated, balanced, quality programs that support

the continuum of the Marines family, on and off installation.

Navy Child and Youth Programs (CYP) provide developmental child care and youth recreational

programs and services for eligible children and youth ages four weeks to eighteen years of age. Programs

and services are specifically designed and operated to meet the unique needs of the military mission and

service members and their families.

The Air Force Family Member Programs provide Child Development Centers, Family Child Care

Programs, and School-Age Care Programs.

Air Force Youth Programs offer a number of activities to educate, guide, and entertain youth. Programs

are available throughout the year at installations throughout the world.

United States Air Force Reserve FROs can help Air Force Reserve service members with a number

of deployment-related issues. Support provided includes resources and referral services to appropriate

programs in the local civilian community.

Coast Guard Child Care assists Coast Guard personnel in balancing the competing demands of family

life and the accomplishment of the Coast Guard mission. This may be done through onsite Coast Guard

Child Development Centers, Coast Guard certified Family Child Care Providers and referral to child

care programs in the local community. DoD Child Development Centers and the Child Care Subsidy

program are available to Coast Guard active duty members only.

The National Guard Child and Youth Program establishes and facilitates ongoing communication,

involvement, support, and recognition between National Guard families and the National Guard in a

partnership that promotes the best in both.
- 290 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Relief organizations

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation emergency relief organizations can be found under the program or service

“Emergency Relief Services.”

Army Emergency Relief (AER) is a nonprofit organization that assists Soldiers and their family

members, including spouses of deployed Soldiers, by providing emergency financial assistance when

there is a valid need. AER provides interest-free loans, grants, or combinations of the two.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides

financial, educational, and other assistance to members of the Navy and Marine Corps, eligible family

members, and survivors when a valid need exists. NMCRS provides interest-free loans and grants to

Sailors, Marines, and their families to meet emergency financial needs.

Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial

assistance to Airmen and their family members. AFAS provides grants and interest-free loans to Airmen

and their families who demonstrate an emergency financial need related to basic living expenses, medical

care, funeral expenses, respite care, vehicle repairs, assistance with other emergencies, pay/allotment

problems, and disaster relief. AFAS also provides assistance to surviving dependents.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides financial

assistance to members of the Coast Guard community during times of need. CGMA provides assistance

to persons associated with the Coast Guard, who demonstrate a financial need, through interest-free

loans, personal grants, and confidential financial counseling and referral services.

Behavioral health counseling

TRICARE Mental Health and Behavior provides service members, family members, and retirees who

are TRICARE beneficiaries and are experiencing symptoms of stress, depression, grief, or anxiety

outpatient behavioral health care services. TRICARE covers outpatient psychotherapy at a maximum of

two sessions per week in any combination of individual, family, collateral, or group sessions.

Military Pathways provides free, anonymous behavioral health and alcohol self-assessments for family

members and service members in all branches including the National Guard and Reserve. Military

Pathways is available online, over the phone, and at special events held at installations worldwide. Selfassessments include a series of questions that, when linked together, help create a picture of how an

individual is feeling and whether he or she could benefit from talking to a health professional.
- 291 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Key Community-Based Service Organizations to Prepare 

for Deployment Websites

Short-term counseling services

Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) works with the DoD to provide a

number of programs and services, including home visit counseling and crisis counseling.

American Red Cross offers confidential counseling, guidance, information, referrals, and other social

services to all military personnel (active duty, National Guard, and Reserves) and their families.

Mobilization and deployment assistance

4-H Military Partnership is supported by the National 4-H Headquarters, Air Force Services Family

Member Programs, Army CYSS, and Navy CYP. 4-H Military Partnership is dedicated to providing

positive education and life skills training programs to military children. The website includes curriculum

materials such as downloadable publications on starting a 4-H club, maintaining good health, and

helping military children through deployments.

American Red Cross Emergency Communications Services relays urgent messages 24 hours a day, 365

days a year, containing accurate, factual, complete, and verified descriptions of the emergency to service

members stationed anywhere in the world, including on ships at sea, embassies, and remote locations.

Red Cross emergency communications services can help keep service members in touch with their

families following the death or serious illness of an immediate family member, the birth of a child or

grandchild, or when a service member’s family faces other emergencies.

ASYMCA Operation Hero aids children six to twelve years of age who are experiencing temporary

difficulties in school, both socially and academically. Often, these difficulties are caused by frequent

moves and family disruption due to deployments. The semester-long program provides after school

tutoring and mentoring assistance in a small group with certified teachers.

The Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. is a nonprofit service organization of mothers who have, or

have had, children honorably serving in the military. Blue Star Mothers of America provides support for

other mothers of service members in times of need.

Coming Together Around Military Families (CTAMF) is a DoD-sponsored initiative in collaboration

with Zero to Three, a national nonprofit organization that informs, trains, and supports professionals,

policymakers, and parents in their efforts to improve the lives of infants and toddlers. CTAMF increases

awareness of the impact of trauma, grief, and loss on very young children through specialized training

and support for the professionals who are supporting military families and educational materials for

military families. CTAMF materials include flyers on a variety of topics (staying connected, selfcare, nurturing, stress, routines, homecoming, and relocation), posters, board books for children that
- 292 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

emphasize a parent’s constant love and the connection between parent and child, and camera-ready

articles with tips for supporting military families with infants and toddlers.

Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) training provides research-based tools, practical

professional development trainings, and partnership support on behalf of military children. MCEC

training opportunities directly address the challenges faced by military children, increase awareness

of and response to these challenges in the military and supporting communities, and initiate quality,

sustainable programs to meet these challenges. MCEC programs serve active duty, National Guard, and

Reserve service members and their families.

Mission Youth Outreach is a Service-sponsored youth outreach initiative provided in collaboration

with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The program allows geographically dispersed military youth

to attend a local Boys and Girls Club at no cost to the family. Access to Boys and Girls Clubs allows

military youth to take advantage of nationally recognized programs such as character and education

programs, education and career programs, health and life skills programs, art programs, and sports,

fitness, and recreation programs.

National Military Family Association (NMFA) “Deployment and You” provides resources, news, and

publications concerning deployment topics for service members and their families. The NMFA is an

independent, nonprofit association dedicated to serving the families and survivors of the uniformed

services by providing education, information, and advocacy.

Operation Military Kids (OMK) is a collaborative effort between America’s communities, the Land

Grant University Extension system, and the United States Army to support military children and youth

impacted by deployment. The initiative, funded by the Army and the Office of the Secretary of Defense,

focuses on serving geographically dispersed children and youth, primarily those of National Guard and

Reserve members, who do not have access to installation-based support programs. OMK efforts include

Hero Packs, Mobile Technology Labs (MTL), Speak Out For Military Kids (SOMK), and Ready, Set,

Go Community Training. Additionally, OMK offers a number of camping opportunities including day

camps, weekend events, special focus camps (e.g., computer, conservation, leadership), school break

retreats, and residential experiences of varying lengths. Youth of active duty, National Guard, and

Reserve service members are eligible for OMK.

Tutor.com is a 24-7 online tutoring and homework help program provided by the DoD. Eligible service

members and their families around the world can work with certified tutors on homework, essay writing,

and test prep. Students and tutors use chat, interactive whiteboards, and file-sharing in a secure online

classroom. Sessions can be replayed, emailed, and printed. In the ProofPoint Real-Time Writing

Center, students get help with reports, essays, and writing projects, including resume help for the

adult student. The SkillsCenter Resource Library offers worksheets, videos, and links to standardized

exams in all fifty states. The service is available for all active duty service members and their families,

for National Guard and Reserve personnel who are deployed to of Operation New Dawn (OND)/
- 293 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and their dependents, and for DoD civilians who are deployed to

OND/OEF and their dependents.

Sesame Workshop and the DoD began their partnership in 2006 with the Talk, Listen, Connect

(TLC) initiative, a military outreach program that provided resources for military families with young

children experiencing the effects of deployment. The TLC multimedia kits include materials that help

families with young children cope with challenges related to deployment and are available for order

through Military OneSource or may be downloaded from the Sesame Workshop. In addition to the

TLC initiative, The Sesame Street Experience for Military Families is a partnership between Sesame

Workshop and the United Service Organizations (USO), which has provided a traveling tour of the

Sesame Street Muppets to more than forty installations worldwide. The Sesame Workshop RoomIn-a-Box initiative provided materials to “Sesamize” rooms at more than twenty military installations,

making the rooms bright and comforting places for children. A new Sesame Workshop website, “Family

Connections,” provides an online space for families to communicate and connect. Sesame Workshop has

also partnered with the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) to create primetime specials that share the

stories of military families who have experienced the challenges of deployment.

Emergency financial assistance

American Red Cross Financial Assistance works under partnership agreements with the AER,

NMCRS, AFAS, and the CGMA to provide quality, reliable financial assistance to eligible applicants

for emergency travel, burial of a loved one, assistance to avoid privation, etc. Through the Armed Forces

Casualty Travel Assistance Program (CTAP), the American Red Cross can provide a one-time grant

available for up to two immediate family members who are not on Invitation Travel Orders (ITOs)

or government-funded. The CTAP provides assistance for travel, lodging, and food expenses to help

make it possible for family members to travel to the bedside of a service member injured in a combat

zone in the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) area of responsibility (AOR) who is

hospitalized in the United States, and for family members traveling to the funeral or memorial service

for a service member killed in action in the USCENTCOM AOR.

ASYMCA Family Emergency Supplies Program provides assistance for families experiencing financial

distress, as does the Food for Families Program.

USO is a private, nonprofit organization supporting service members and their families by providing

morale, welfare, and recreation-type services. USO centers offer housing and financial information and

support to military families during emergencies.

Employment assistance

Career OneStop Key to Career Success is a Department of Labor (DOL)-sponsored website offering

career resources and workforce information. The Key to Career Success Campaign provides military

spouses with job search, career planning, training, and family resources.
- 294 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Military Spouse Corporate Career Network (MSCCN) is a nonprofit agency that assists military

spouses in locating career opportunities. It is a free service that works in conjunction with military family

service centers to provide employment and career opportunities for military spouses.

NMFA is an independent, nonprofit association dedicated to serving the families and survivors of

uniformed services members by providing education, information, and advocacy. Included on the

NFMA website is a section providing spouse employment information and resources.

Child and youth programs

The ASYMCA is a nonprofit national member association of the Young Men’s Christian Association

(YMCA) that works with the DoD. Included in the many programs offered through the ASYMCA are

parenting workshops, “Daddy & Me Playmornings,” “Mommy & Me Playmornings,” and the “Mom

and Tots Time” program.

National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) works with more

than 700 state and local child care resource and referral agencies nationwide to help ensure that families

in the United States have access to high-quality, affordable child care. Through several civilian/military

partnerships, NACCRRA and child care resource and referral agencies work to build the quality and

capacity of child care throughout the country for service members and their families:

• Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood is a DoD program operated in partnership with

NACCRRA designed to help service members stationed in communities without military

installations (such as Recruiters, Reserve Officer Training Corps [ROTC] instructors, Military

Entrance Processing [MEP] personnel, and service members on Independent Duty) find affordable,

high-quality child care in communities by providing reduced fees for the care of their children.

• Operation Military Child Care (OMCC) provides child care fee assistance for deployed active

duty members (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force) and National Guard and Reserve service

members who are activated or deployed whose children are enrolled in non-DoD licensed child

care programs.

• Army Child Care in Your Neighborhood pilot sites help Army families find high-quality child

care programs at a cost comparable to those on the installation through fee assistance. Pilot sites

include Fort Carson, Fort Stewart/Hunter Army Airfield, Fort Riley, Fort Campbell, Fort Bragg,

Fort Drum, Fort Bliss, Fort Sam Houston, Fort Lewis, and United States Southern Command

(USSOUTHCOM).

• Army School-Age Program in Your Neighborhood (ASPYN) helps Army families to find ASPYN

approved providers in their community and fee assistance to help cover the cost of care.

• Child Care Assistance for Severely Injured Military Members is a partnership between NACCRRA

and the Services to provide families of severely injured military members with assistance finding

and paying for safe, licensed child care services for a period of six months during the period of
- 295 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

recuperation. Extensions beyond the six-month period will be considered based upon physician

reassessment. The program is available nationwide wherever the injured member is receiving either

in-patient or out-patient medical care.

• Enhanced Child Care Referral Service helps military families when the service member is deployed,

the active duty service member lives away from a military installation, or the active duty service

member lives near a military installation where on installation care is unavailable. It helps families

find child care options that meet their needs by providing them with a higher level of service and

linking them to their local participating Child Care Resource and Referral (available to Army, Navy,

and Marine Corps families).

• NACCRRA EFMP Respite Care for Navy Families is specifically designed for Navy families with

EFM children, category IV or V. This includes EFMs whose medical condition requires assignment

near major medical facilities in the continental United States or whose needs are complex and

specialized, requiring continuity of care.

• ASYMCA DoD Military Outreach Program offers respite child care services for children whose

parent or guardian needs temporary respite from their role as primary caregiver in the absence of a

deployed spouse. Respite child care is offered at select locations and may be provided for children up to

age twelve at participating YMCA locations for up to sixteen hours of respite child care per month,

per child.

Pre-Deployment Health Care Benefits Websites

TRICARE Regions and Areas

TRICARE North Region includes Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana,

Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North

Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and portions

of Iowa (Rock Island Arsenal area), Missouri (St. Louis area), and Tennessee (Fort Campbell area).

TRICARE South Region includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi,

Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee (excluding the Fort Campbell area), and Texas (excluding the El

Paso area).

TRICARE West Region includes Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa

(excluding Rock Island Arsenal area), Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri (except the St. Louis area),

Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas (the

southwestern corner, including El Paso), Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
- 296 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

TRICARE Overseas Region, Eurasia-Africa Area includes Europe and Africa, all Middle Eastern

countries, Pakistan, Russia, and several former Soviet Republics including the Baltic States, Ukraine,

Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan.

TRICARE Overseas Region, Latin America and Canada Area includes Central and South America, the

Caribbean Basin, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.

TRICARE Overseas Region, Pacific Area includes Guam, Asia, New Zealand, India, and Western

Pacific remote countries.

TRICARE Medical, Dental, and Pharmacy Plans

TRICARE Prime is a managed care option that provides service members and their families with

affordable and comprehensive coverage. Active duty service members are required to enroll in

TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Prime Remote. TRICARE Prime is available in areas near military

treatment facilities (MTFs) and in locations where regional contractors have established TRICARE

Prime networks.

TRICARE Prime Remote is a managed care option similar to TRICARE Prime for active duty service

members and their eligible family members when they live in areas outside of a prime service area,

designated as “remote areas.” Active duty service members who reside and work outside of a prime

service area are required to participate in TRICARE Prime Remote. Family members have the option to

either enroll in TRICARE Prime Remote or use TRICARE Standard and Extra.

TRICARE Standard and Extra is a fee-for-service plan available to all non-active duty beneficiaries

throughout the United States. Enrollment is not required. Coverage is automatic as long as your

information is current in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).

TRICARE Reserve Family Demonstration Project allows family members of National Guard and

Reserve service members who are activated for more than thirty days in support of a contingency

operation to be eligible to receive additional benefits under TRICARE Standard and Extra. Family

members who do not or cannot enroll in TRICARE Prime receive waivers for certain costs and aspects

of the program.

United States Family Health Plan (USFHP) is an additional TRICARE Prime option available through

networks of community-based, not-for-profit health care systems in six areas of the United States.

Beneficiaries must be enrolled in DEERS and live in one of the designated USFHP service areas

to enroll.

TRICARE Prime Overseas is a managed care plan for active duty service members and their eligible

family members residing together in overseas locations in which TRICARE Prime Overseas is available.

As with TRICARE Prime, the majority of care is provided through a primary care manager who refers

beneficiaries to health care specialists as necessary.
- 297 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

TRICARE Global Remote Overseas (TGRO) is a TRICARE Prime option offered in designated

remote overseas locations for active duty service members and their families. TRICARE has partnered

with International SOS to identify the best local providers and facilities and develop a network of

licensed, qualified physicians in remote overseas areas.

TRICARE Standard Overseas provides family members with greater flexibility in choosing their

health care provider in overseas locations than TRICARE Prime Overseas, but costs more in out-ofpocket fees. Family members are allowed to choose any qualified host nation health care provider. The

TRICARE Extra option is not available in overseas locations.

TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) is a voluntary, premium-based dental insurance plan administered

by United Concordia Companies, Inc. For enrollees, the TDP covers a wide range of diagnostic,

preventive and restorative services through a network of more than 64,000 participating dentists, or

through a nonparticipating dentist at an additional cost. The TDP is available to active duty family

members, members of the National Guard and Reserve, and family members of National Guard and

Reserve service members.

TRICARE Pharmacy Program provides a world-class pharmacy benefit through TRICARE to all

eligible uniformed service members, retirees, and family members, including beneficiaries age sixty-five

and older. The TRICARE Pharmacy Program provides outpatient prescription drugs to more than 9.5

million beneficiaries.

Deployment Phase Websites

Coping with Separation Websites

Government and military websites

Department of Defense (DoD) Yellow Ribbon Program provides National Guard and Reserve members

and their families with information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout

the deployment cycle.

Military OneSource provides service members and their families with free, non-medical counseling

sessions. Military OneSource consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by

phone, online, or via email offering personalized support to any service member or family member.

Military OneSource can connect individuals with a trained, state-licensed behavioral health professional

for free confidential/private counseling. Military OneSource offers twelve free counseling sessions per

person, per issue that are short-term, solution-focused, and address a variety of topics such as improving

relationships at home and at work, financial issues, marital issues, grief and loss issues (normal reactions

that would benefit from short-term support), adjusting to a change in situation (such as a return from
- 298 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

deployment or permanent change of duty station), and other issues that are non-medical in nature.

Information about the Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) Program may be found on

MilitaryHOMEFRONT.

TRICARE Assistance Program (TRIAP) is available to eligible United States beneficiaries and provides

online access to counseling for short-term, non-medical issues. Eligible beneficiaries can access TRIAP

for an unlimited number of times, and services are confidential and non-reportable. Eligible beneficiaries

include active duty service members, active duty family members, Selected Reserve service members and

their families who are enrolled in TRICARE Select, and those covered under the Transitional Assistance

Management Program (TAMP).

TRICARE Mental Health and Behavior provides service members, family members, and retirees who

are TRICARE beneficiaries and are experiencing symptoms of stress, depression, grief, or anxiety

outpatient behavioral health care services. TRICARE covers outpatient psychotherapy at a maximum of

two sessions per week in any combination of individual, family, collateral, or group sessions.

Military Pathways provides free, anonymous behavioral health and alcohol self-assessments for family

members and service members in all branches including the National Guard and Reserve. Military

Pathways is available online, over the phone, and at special events held at installations worldwide. Selfassessments include a series of questions that, when linked together, help create a picture of how an

individual is feeling and whether he or she could benefit from talking to a health professional.

Army Family Readiness Group (FRG) provides a direct link from family members to the command

for units, ensuring that family members are aware of relevant information and resources for their unit.

Family members may use the installation FRG or the virtual FRG (vFRG), an Internet-based system

that provides all the functionality of a traditional FRG but allows geographically dispersed units and

family members to access information about their unit.

Army OneSourceis the website of Army Community Service (ACS), the organization that provides

family programs and services to members of the Army. This website offers a variety of information,

links, services, and resources for Soldiers, family members, staff, and civilians.The website includes

information on managing deployments, home and family life, and personal financial management. ACS

centers located on almost all Army installations provide comprehensive pre-deployment support to

service members and their families.

Army Reserve FRG membership includes Soldiers’ families, both immediate and extended, Soldiers,

and other interested parties such as fiancés, friends, retirees, employers, and community members. The

goal of the FRG is to establish a network that enables family members to effectively gather information,

resolve problems, and maintain mutual support, thereby reducing stress associated with military life.
- 299 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) is an integral part of a Marine Corps unit family

readiness program. It provides educational resources and services to foster personal growth and enhance

the readiness of Marine Corps families.

Unit, Personal, and Family Readiness Program (UPFRP) provides resource information and training

in addition to support services to enhance a Marine personal and family readiness. A Marine must

ensure their personal and family affairs are in order so that they will remain fully focused on the mission,

whether in garrison or in combat. 

Navy Ombudsman is a volunteer, appointed by the commanding officer to serve as an information link

between command leadership and Navy families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information

both up and down the chain of command, including official Department of the Navy and command

information, command climate issues, local quality of life improvement opportunities, and “good deals”

around the community. An ombudsman also provides resource referrals when needed and helps resolve

family issues whenever possible without involving command.

The United States Navy Reserve (USNR) Ombudsman Online provides information for activated

and mobilized Reserve Sailors including topics pertaining to child care for deployed Sailors. The Navy

Ombudsman program can help Navy Reserve service members find information related to child care and

child care resources in their local communities.

Air Force Reserve Command Family Readiness provides families of deployed Reserve service members

with services including video telephones, crisis intervention assistance, volunteer opportunities, reunion

activities, information and referral services to appropriate support agencies, assistance with financial

questions and concerns, telephone tree roster for communication to the families from the unit, family

support groups, morale calls, letter-writing kits for children, and access to email.

Coast Guard Ombudsmen are appointed by their respective commands, support command policy, and

efficiently work with command and the active duty Coast Guard service members and their families.

Community–based websites

4-H Military Partnership is supported by the National 4-H Headquarters, Air Force Services Family

Member Programs, Army Child, Youth, and School Services (CYSS), and Navy Child and Youth

Program (CYP). 4-H Military is dedicated to providing positive education and life skills training

programs to military children. The website includes curriculum materials such as downloadable

publications on starting a 4-H club, maintaining good health, and helping military children through

deployments.

Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) Operation Hero aids children six to

twelve years of age who are experiencing temporary difficulties in school, both socially and academically.

Often, these difficulties are caused by frequent moves and family disruption due to deployments. The
- 300 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

semester-long program provides after school tutoring and mentoring assistance in a small group with

certified teachers.

The Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. is a nonprofit service organization of mothers who have, or have

had, children honorably serving in the military. Blue Star Mothers of America provides support for other

mothers of service members in times of need.

Coming Together Around Military Families (CTAMF) is a Department of Defense (DoD)-sponsored

initiative in collaboration with Zero to Three, a national nonprofit organization that informs, trains,

and supports professionals, policymakers, and parents in their efforts to improve the lives of infants and

toddlers. CTAMF increases awareness of the impact of trauma, grief, and loss on very young children

through specialized training and support for the professionals who are supporting military families

and educational materials for military families. CTAMF materials include flyers on a variety of topics

(staying connected, self-care, nurturing, stress, routines, homecoming, and relocation), posters, board

books for children that emphasize a parent’s constant love and the connection between parent and child,

and camera-ready articles with tips for supporting military families with infants and toddlers.

Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) training provides research-based tools, practical

professional development trainings, and partnership support on behalf of military children. MCEC

training opportunities directly address the challenges faced by military children, increase awareness

of and response to these challenges in the military and supporting communities, and initiate quality,

sustainable programs to meet these challenges. MCEC programs serve active duty, National Guard, and

Reserve service members and their families.

Mission Youth Outreach is a Service-sponsored youth outreach initiative provided in collaboration

with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The program allows geographically dispersed military youth

to attend a local Boys and Girls Club at no cost to the family. Access to Boys and Girls Clubs allows

military youth to take advantage of nationally recognized programs such as character and education

programs, education and career programs, health and life skills programs, art programs, and sports,

fitness, and recreation programs.

National Military Family Association (NMFA) “Deployment and You” provides resources, news, and

publications concerning deployment topics for service members and their families. The NMFA is an

independent, nonprofit association dedicated to serving the families and survivors of the uniformed

services by providing education, information, and advocacy.

Operation Military Kids (OMK) is a collaborative effort between America’s communities, the Land

Grant University Extension system, and the United States Army to support military children and youth

impacted by deployment. The initiative, funded by the Army and the Office of the Secretary of Defense,

focuses on serving geographically dispersed children and youth, primarily those of National Guard and

Reserve members, who do not have access to installation-based support programs. OMK efforts include

Hero Packs, Mobile Technology Labs (MTL), Speak Out For Military Kids (SOMK), and Ready, Set,
- 301 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Go Community Training. Additionally, OMK offers a number of camping opportunities including day

camps, weekend events, special focus camps (e.g., computer, conservation, leadership), school break

retreats, and residential experiences of varying lengths. Youth of active duty, National Guard, and

Reserve service members are eligible for OMK.

Tutor.com is a 24-7 online tutoring and homework help program provided by the DoD. Eligible service

members and their families around the world can work with certified tutors on homework, essay writing,

and test prep. Students and tutors use chat, interactive whiteboards, and file-sharing in a secure online

classroom. Sessions can be replayed, emailed, and printed. In the ProofPoint Real-Time Writing

Center, students get help with reports, essays, and writing projects, including resume help for the

adult student. The SkillsCenter Resource Library offers worksheets, videos, and links to standardized

exams in all fifty states. The service is available for all active duty service members and their families,

for National Guard and Reserve personnel who are deployed to of Operation New Dawn (OND)/

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and their dependents, and for DoD civilians who are deployed to

OND/OEF and their dependents.

Sesame Workshop and the DoD began their partnership 2006 with the Talk, Listen, Connect (TLC)

initiative, a military outreach program that provided resources for military families with young

children experiencing the effects of deployment. The TLC multimedia kits include materials that help

families with young children cope with challenges related to deployment and are available for order

through Military OneSource or may be downloaded from the Sesame Workshop. In addition to the

TLC initiative, The Sesame Street Experience for Military Families is a partnership between Sesame

Workshop and the United Service Organizations (USO), which has provided a traveling tour of the

Sesame Street Muppets to more than forty installations worldwide. The Sesame Workshop RoomIn-a-Box initiative provided materials to “Sesamize” rooms at more than twenty military installations,

making the rooms bright and comforting places for children. A new Sesame Workshop website, “Family

Connections,” provides an online space for families to communicate and connect. Sesame Workshop has

also partnered with the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) to create primetime specials that share the

stories of military families who have experienced the challenges of deployment.

Emergencies during a Deployment Websites

Government and military websites

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation emergency relief organizations can be found under the program or service

“Emergency Relief Services.”
- 302 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Army Emergency Relief (AER) is a nonprofit organization that assists Soldiers and their family

members, including spouses of deployed Soldiers, by providing emergency financial assistance when

there is a valid need. AER provides interest-free loans, grants, or combinations of the two.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides

financial, educational, and other assistance to members of the Navy and Marine Corps, eligible family

members, and survivors when a valid need exists. NMCRS provides interest-free loans and grants to

Sailors, Marines, and their families to meet emergency financial needs.

Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial

assistance to Airmen and their family members. AFAS provides grants and interest-free loans to Airmen

and their families who demonstrate an emergency financial need related to basic living expenses, medical

care, funeral expenses, respite care, vehicle repairs, assistance with other emergencies, pay/allotment

problems, and disaster relief. AFAS also provides assistance to surviving dependents.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides financial

assistance to members of the Coast Guard community during times of need. CGMA provides assistance

to persons associated with the Coast Guard, who demonstrate a financial need, through interest-free

loans, personal grants, and confidential financial counseling and referral services.

Community–based websites

American Red Cross Financial Assistance works under partnership agreements with the AER,

NMCRS, AFAS, and the CGMA to provide quality, reliable financial assistance to eligible applicants

for emergency travel, burial of a loved one, assistance to avoid privation, etc. Through the Armed Forces

Casualty Travel Assistance Program (CTAP), the American Red Cross can provide a one-time grant

available for up to two immediate family members who are not on Invitation Travel Orders (ITOs)

or government-funded. The CTAP provides assistance for travel, lodging, and food expenses to help

make it possible for family members to travel to the bedside of a service member injured in a combat

zone, in the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) area of responsibility (AOR) who is

hospitalized in the United States, and for family members traveling to the funeral or memorial service

for a service member killed in action in the USCENTCOM AOR.

American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services (AFES) relays urgent messages 24 hours a day,

365 days a year, containing accurate, factual, complete, and verified descriptions of the emergency to

service members stationed anywhere in the world, including on ships at sea and at embassies and remote

locations. American Red Cross emergency communication services keep military personnel in touch

with their families following the death or serious illness of an immediate family member, the birth of a

service member’s child or grandchild, or when a family faces other emergencies.

Armed Forces Foundation Family Assistance provides emergency financial assistance, vehicle

modifications, laptops, housing assistance, tickets to recreation events, phone cards, and transportation
- 303 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

assistance. The Armed Forces Foundation can provide financial assistance for rent/mortgage costs, utility

bills, housing or airfare involved in transporting a family member to assist a service member following

surgery, car payments, and car insurance.

Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) Family Emergency Supplies Program

provides assistance for families experiencing financial distress, as does the Food for Families Program.

Operation Homefront is a charity operating under a Memorandum of Understanding with the

Department of Defense (DoD), providing emergency assistance and morale to service members, the

families they leave behind, and to wounded warriors when they return from deployment. The Financial

Assistance Program provides monetary assistance for rent, utility bills, airfare to transport a family

member to assist a military wife during illness or after childbirth, child care during illness or surgery, etc.

United Service Organization (USO) is a private, nonprofit organization supporting service members and

their families by providing morale, welfare, and recreation-type services. USO centers offer housing and

financial information and support to military families during emergencies. 

USA Cares Basic Needs Program provides financial and advocacy assistance to post-9/11 active duty

military service personnel, veterans, and their families. USA Cares assists all branches of Service, all

ranks, and components free of charge.

Leave during a Deployment Websites

Government and military websites

United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) Rest and Recuperation (R&R) Leave Program was

implemented to provide eligible members of all Services and Department of Defense (DoD) civilians

who are serving within the USCENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR) an opportunity for rest and

recuperation as well as aid with temporary family reintegration.

United States Army Europe (USAREUR) R&R Leave Program provides Soldiers and Department of

the Army (DA) civilians who are serving within in the Kosovo area of operation a period of chargeable

leave away from the area of operation.

Communicating during a Deployment Websites

Government and military websites

Military Postal Service Agency (MPSA) promotes the efficient, economical transportation of mail

by ensuring the effective operation of military post offices and by providing sound management of

the official mail program. MPSA is the single Department of Defense (DoD) point of contact with
- 304 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

the United States Postal Service (USPS), providing movement of military mail into over eighty-five

countries.

USPS works with the MPSA to deliver mail to service members stationed abroad and while on

deployments. The USPS website provides addressing tips, packaging tips, information on mailing

restrictions, and other resources for troops and families.

Army Family Readiness Group (FRG) provides a direct link from family members to the command

for units, ensuring that family members are aware of relevant information and resources for their unit.

Family members may use the installation FRG or the virtual FRG (vFRG), an Internet-based system

that provides all the functionality of a traditional FRG but allows geographically dispersed units and

family members to access information about their unit.

Army OneSourceis the website of Army Community Service (ACS), the organization that provides

family programs and services to members of the Army. This website offers a variety of information,

links, services, and resources for Soldiers, family members, staff, and civilians.The website includes

information on managing deployments, home and family life, and personal financial management. ACS

centers located on almost all Army installations provide comprehensive pre-deployment support to

service members and their families.

Army Reserve FRG membership includes Soldiers’ families, both immediate and extended, Soldiers,

and other interested parties such as fiancés, friends, retirees, employers, and community members. The

goal of the FRG is to establish a network that enables family members to effectively gather information,

resolve problems, and maintain mutual support, thereby reducing stress associated with military life.

United States Army Military Affiliate Radio System (MARS) is a DoD-sponsored program consisting

of licensed amateur radio operators who are interested in military communications on a local, national,

and international basis as an adjunct to normal communications.

Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) is an integral part of a Marine Corps unit family

readiness program. It provides educational resources and services to foster personal growth and enhance

the readiness of Marine Corps families. 

Marine Corps Motivational Mail System (MotoMail) is a free service that provides a discreet and secure

way of sending letters to deployed Marines through the Internet. MotoMail is currently available to

most forward deployed Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel

who are co-located with deployed Marines.

Navy Ombudsman is a volunteer, appointed by the commanding officer to serve as an information link

between command leadership and Navy families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information

both up and down the chain of command, including official Department of the Navy and command
- 305 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

information, command climate issues, local quality of life improvement opportunities, and “good deals”

around the community. An ombudsman also provides resource referrals when needed and helps resolve

family issues whenever possible without involving command.

The United States Navy Reserve (USNR) Ombudsman Online provides information for activated

and mobilized Reserve Sailors including topics pertaining to child care for deployed Sailors. The Navy

Ombudsman program can help Navy Reserve service members find information related to child care and

child care resources in their local communities.

Navy-Marine Corps-Coast Guard MARS is a DoD-sponsored program consisting of licensed amateur

radio operators who are interested in military communications on a local, national, and international

basis as an adjunct to normal communications.

Air Force Reserve Command Family Readiness provides families of deployed Reserve service members

with services including video telephones, crisis intervention assistance, volunteer opportunities, reunion

activities, information and referral services to appropriate support agencies, assistance with financial

questions and concerns, telephone tree roster for communication to the families from the unit, family

support groups, morale calls, letter-writing kits for children, and access to email.

Air Force MARS TRANSCON Digital Network is a DoD-sponsored program consisting of licensed

amateur radio operators who are interested in military communications on a local, national, and

international basis as an adjunct to normal communications.

Coast Guard Ombudsmen are appointed by their respective commands, support command policy, and

efficiently work with command and the active duty Coast Guard service members and their families.

Community–based program websites

American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services (AFES) relays urgent messages 24 hours a day,

365 days a year, containing accurate, factual, complete, and verified descriptions of the emergency to

service members stationed anywhere in the world, including on ships at sea and at embassies and remote

locations. American Red Cross emergency communication services keep military personnel in touch

with their families following the death or serious illness of an immediate family member, the birth of a

service member’s child or grandchild, or when a family faces other emergencies.

Operation Uplink is a program administered by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

(VFW) to provide free phone cards to deployed service members and hospitalized veterans.

Replacing Identification Cards during a Deployment Websites

The Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) includes over twenty-three million

records pertaining to active duty and reserve military and their family members, military retired,
- 306 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Department of Defense (DoD) civil service personnel, and DoD contractors. The DEERS system

provides accurate and timely information for supporting DoD Identification cards (ID cards). The

Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) application provides on-line access to

information in the DEERS database. Eligible persons may be issued their ID cards at over 900 RAPIDS

sites in twenty-three different countries.

Post Deployment Phase Websites

Return and Reunion Websites

Government and military websites

Department of Defense (DoD) Yellow Ribbon Program provides National Guard and Reserve members

and their families with information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout

the deployment cycle.

After Deployment (AD), a jointly developed website by the Department of Defense (DoD) and the

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is a behavioral health web portal focused on post deployment

health problems. AD’s intended outreach includes active duty service members, veterans, and their

families. It also presents particular advantages for National Guard and Reserve units not located near a

military treatment facility (MTF) or otherwise located in areas lacking providers who are knowledgeable

about military-related adjustment concerns.

Project Families Overcoming Under Stress (FOCUS) is designed to help service members and families

address the impact of multiple deployments, combat stress, and high operational tempo on children and

families. The program has received extremely positive feedback from commanders, program managers,

members and families, and has shown significant positive impacts on reduction of conflict behaviors

and emotional symptoms in children and has also resulted in an increase in their positive behaviors. At

the installation level, Project FOCUS is considered another service within the overall family support

umbrella continuum of care, typically provided through the installation family center. Project FOCUS is

currently available only on select Marine Corps and Navy installations.

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life. Available

deployment support materials include explanations of military benefits, managing stress associated with

deployment, coping with deployments and reunions, and deployment topics for single service members.

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation chapels can be found under the program or service “Chapels.”
- 307 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

MilitaryHOMEFRONT Deployment Connections is an online handbook for coping with deployment.

It is intended to make it easier to find deployment-related information and support services for active

and reserve military members and their families during all phases of deployment and mobilization.

Yellow Ribbon America unites Americans, motivating and assisting America’s communities to give

direct support to their local military members and their families. Yellow Ribbon America provides the

national framework to organize America’s cities and towns, delivering immediate and direct support

to America’s deployed and returning military personnel and their families. The Deployed Military

Members & Family Support Program organizes community outreach events to help communities

welcome home military members and thank their families for their sacrifices.

Army Family Readiness Group (FRG) provides a direct link from family members to the command

for units, ensuring that family members are aware of relevant information and resources for their unit.

Family members may use the installation FRG or the virtual FRG (vFRG), an Internet-based system

that provides all the functionality of a traditional FRG but allows geographically dispersed units and

family members to access information about their unit.

Army Reserve FRG membership includes Soldiers’ families, both immediate and extended, Soldiers,

and other interested parties such as fiancés, friends, retirees, employers, and community members. The

goal of the FRG is to establish a network that enables family members to effectively gather information,

resolve problems, and maintain mutual support, thereby reducing stress associated with military life.

Army Chaplaincy provides spiritual and religious support to Soldiers and their families across the active

and reserve components of the Army. Army chaplains provide families with counseling and family

readiness programs, such as the Strong Bonds program, to help strengthen their resiliency.

Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) is an integral part of a Marine Corps unit family

readiness program. It provides educational resources and services to foster personal growth and enhance

the readiness of Marine Corps families. 

Navy Ombudsman is a volunteer, appointed by the commanding officer to serve as an information link

between command leadership and Navy families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information

both up and down the chain of command, including official Department of the Navy and command

information, command climate issues, local quality of life improvement opportunities, and “good deals”

around the community. An ombudsman also provides resource referrals when needed and helps resolve

family issues whenever possible without involving command.

The United States Navy Reserve (USNR) Ombudsman Online provides information for activated

and mobilized Reserve Sailors including topics pertaining to child care for deployed Sailors. The Navy

Ombudsman program can help Navy Reserve service members find information related to child care and

child care resources in their local communities.
- 308 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Navy Chaplain Care provides religious ministry and pastoral care to Sailors, Marines, and their families

to maintain spiritual, moral, and ethical readiness.

Air Force Reserve Command Family Readiness provides families of deployed Reserve service members

with services including video telephones, crisis intervention assistance, volunteer opportunities, reunion

activities, information and referral services to appropriate support agencies, assistance with financial

questions and concerns, telephone tree roster for communication to the families from the unit, family

support groups, morale calls, letter-writing kits for children, and access to email.

Air Force Chaplain Agency provides pastoral care to Airmen and their families. Chaplain services can

provide spiritual guidance for Airmen and their families and help to strengthen family bonds.

Coast Guard Ombudsmen are appointed by their respective commands, support command policy, and

efficiently work with command and the active duty Coast Guard service members and their families.

Headquarters and Deputy Chaplain of the Coast Guard provides pastoral care to members of the Coast

Guard family. Chaplain services can provide spiritual guidance for Coast Guard members and their

families and help to strengthen family bonds.

Community–based websites

The American Red Cross is the nation’s premier emergency response organization. The American Red

Cross offers confidential services to all military personnel (active duty, National Guard and Reserves)

and their families. Counseling, guidance, information, referrals, and other social services are available

through its worldwide network of chapters and offices on military installations.

The Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) is a nonprofit national member

association of the YMCA that works with the DoD. Included in the many programs offered through the

ASYMCA are home visit counseling and crisis counseling.

Post Deployment Affairs Websites

Revisitation of Administrative Affairs Websites

Government and military websites

The Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) includes over twenty-three million

records pertaining to active duty and reserve military and their family members, military retired,

Department of Defense (DoD) civil service personnel, and DoD contractors. The DEERS system

provides accurate and timely information for supporting DoD Identification cards (ID cards). The

Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) application provides on-line access to
- 309 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

information in the DEERS database. Eligible persons may be issued their ID cards at over 900 RAPIDS

sites in twenty-three different countries.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) provides an overview of the program, coverage amounts,

cost, and additional information.

Revisitation of Legal Affairs Websites

Government and military websites

The Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFLA) is a joint effort of the legal assistance divisions of the

Judge Advocate Generals’ ( JAG) Corps of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

The AFLA website provides service members and their families with an overview of legal assistance

topics and an online tool for locating the nearest Legal Assistance office for consultation with a Legal

Assistance attorney.

United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces exercises appellate jurisdiction over service

members on active duty as well as any other person who is subject to the Uniform Code of Military

Justice. The Court addresses a wide range of legal topics relating to service members including

constitutional law, administrative law, criminal law, ethics, and national security law.

Army Legal Services provides general information, legal planning and toolkits, and answers to frequently

asked questions for Soldiers, family members, and other eligible clients.

Legal Assistance Branch, Staff Judge Advocate to the Commandant of the Marine Corps provides links

to various legal topics (e.g., advisories, scams, citizenship/immigration information, etc.).

Navy Legal Service Office (NLSO) provides legal assistance services for active duty service members,

their family members, certain Reserve service members, and retirees. In addition to legal assistance, the

individual NLSO regions often provide legal-related services, such as defense/personal representation,

claims processing, and income tax-related services.

JAG United States Air Force is responsible for all legal matters for the United States Air Force including

legal assistance services for service members, their families, certain Reserve service members, and retirees.

Coast Guard Legal Assistance provides information on various legal assistance topics including

consumer and contract matters, creditor and debtor relations, family law, and wills and estate planning.

Community–based websites

American Bar Association (ABA) Standing Committee on Legal Assistance for Military Personnel

(LAMP) manages Operation Enduring LAMP, a consortium of state and local bar associations that
- 310 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

recruit volunteer attorneys to assist military Legal Assistance attorneys with civil law cases affecting

service members.

The National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP) is an independent, nonprofit, charitable

organization acting to ensure that the United States government honors the pact made with its veterans.

Along with advocacy, education, and training, the NVLSP oversees a consortium of four organizations,

which provide pro bono legal representation for veterans appealing the Department of Veterans Affairs

(VA) decision to deny benefits.

Revisitation of Financial Affairs Websites

Government and military websites

Defense Finance Accounting Service (DFAS) delivers accounting and finance services to the Military

Services, as well as those who support war fighters defending the country. DFAS administers military

and retirement pay for service members and the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP).

DoD Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program provides a lifetime benefit of

up to $4,000 of financial assistance for spouses married to active duty or activated National Guard and

Reserve members in pay grades E1-E5, W1-W2, and O1-O2 who are pursuing an associate’s degree, a

license, or a credential necessary for a portable career employment. Service members must be on Title 10

military orders for the spouse to receive this benefit.

MyPay is an automated online system that allows service members to access their current and certain

past leave and earnings statements (LESs) twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Using MyPay,

service members can also view tax statements and change certain discretionary pay data items, such as

direct deposit allotments, without using paper forms.

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email.

Military OneSource provides up to twelve free financial counseling sessions per issue and per calendar

year and per eligible client. Eligible clients include active duty service members, National Guard and

Reserve service members (regardless of activation status), and their families.

MilitaryHOMEFRONT is the official website for quality of life programmatic and policy information

for the DoD. The Personal Financial Management section provides an overview of financial readiness,

benefits and entitlements information, and links to other financial planning/readiness resources.

TurboTAP, a DoD-sponsored website, provides active duty, National Guard and Reserve service

members, and their families with the resources and assistance they need when transitioning on and off

of active duty. TurboTAP provides a wealth of information in three basic topic areas: money, benefits,

and jobs.
- 311 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Beneficiary Financial Counseling Service (BFCS) is an additional benefit offered to beneficiaries

of SGLI and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) policies, as well as Servicemembers’ Group

Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) claimants. Beneficiaries or claimants can take

advantage of free professional financial advice provided by FinancialPoint®.

Army OneSource Financial Readiness assists Soldiers, civilians, and their families by providing

budgeting and planning calculators, financial news, links to information on retirement planning, online

financial training, and a link to an Internet tool designed to graphically display a visitor’s financial profile.

MyArmyBenefits is the official Army benefits website, providing information and links to federal

and state benefits information, deployment and post deployment financial calculators, and access to

retirement and disability calculators for those with an AKO account.

Army National Guard Consumer Affairs and Financial Assistance provides financial education for

Soldiers, civilians, and their families through classes, training, or information.

Army Reserve Family Programs Financial Readiness provides information and assistance to members

of the Army Reserve on a variety of family programs and services. The website provides information

on financial planning, financial readiness training, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and taxes. Website

requires Common Access Card (CAC) login.

Army Emergency Relief (AER) is a nonprofit organization that assists Soldiers and their family

members, including spouses of deployed Soldiers, by providing emergency financial assistance when

there is a valid need. AER provides interest-free loans, grants, or combinations of the two.

Marine Corps Personal Financial Management provides eligible personnel with education, training,

counseling, information, and referral for personal financial issues.

Navy Personal Financial Management Program (PFMP) provides information, classes, training, and

counseling to combat financial mismanagement and to provide proactive training to prepare Sailors and

their families for potential financial issues in the future.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides

financial, educational, and other assistance to members of the Navy and Marine Corps, eligible family

members, and survivors when a valid need exists. NMCRS provides interest-free loans and grants to

Sailors, Marines, and their families to meet emergency financial needs.

The Air Force Personal Financial Readiness website provides information and links on a number of

financial readiness topics including credit and money management, home and car buying, personal

finance and investing, tax information, and emergency financial assistance.
- 312 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial

assistance to Airmen and their family members. AFAS provides grants and interest-free loans to Airmen

and their families who demonstrate an emergency financial need related to basic living expenses, medical

care, funeral expenses, respite care, vehicle repairs, assistance with other emergencies, pay/allotment

problems, and disaster relief. AFAS also provides assistance to surviving dependents.

The Coast Guard Financial Management Program provides members of Team Coast Guard (active

duty, Reserve, retirees, family members, civil service employees, and exchange system and morale,

welfare, and recreation employees) with practical information and financial planning tools.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides financial

assistance to members of the Coast Guard community during times of need. CGMA provides assistance

to persons associated with the Coast Guard, who demonstrate a financial need, through interest-free

loans, personal grants, and confidential financial counseling and referral services.

Community–based websites

The American Red Cross works under partnership agreements with the AER, NMCRS, AFAS, and

CGMA to provide quality, reliable financial assistance to eligible applicants for emergency travel, burial

of a loved one, assistance to avoid privation, etc.

The Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) Family Emergency Supplies

Program provides assistance for families experiencing financial distress, as does the Food for Families

Program.

The United Service Organizations (USO) is a private, nonprofit organization supporting service

members and their families by providing morale, welfare, and recreation-type services. USO centers offer

housing and financial information and support to military families during emergencies.

Revisitation of Employment Affairs Websites

Government and military websites

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a DoD organization operated through a

network of volunteers in local ESGR committees in each state, the District of Columbia, Guam,

Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. ESGR works to educate civilian employers and communities about

the National Guard and Reserve through a comprehensive outreach program known as the Civilian

Employment Information (CEI) Initiative. ESGR works with employers and communities to promote

the development of personnel policies designed to accommodate members of the uniformed Services

and assists military units in promoting and maintaining positive relationships between employers and

National Guard and Reserve employees. ESGR educates service members about their obligations to

their employers and their rights under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights
- 313 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Act (USERRA). ESGR also assists them in preventing, resolving, or reducing employer/employee

problems and misunderstandings related to USERRA through mediation and ombudsman services.

Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) provides assistance

to persons with respect to employment and reemployment rights and benefits under USERRA including

outreach activities, USERRA briefings, the USERRA advisor, the e-VETS Resource Advisor, and other

web-based materials.

DoD Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program provides a lifetime benefit of

up to $4,000 of financial assistance for spouses married to active duty or activated National Guard and

Reserve members in pay grades E1-E5, W1-W2, and O1-O2 who are pursuing an associate’s degree, a

license, or a credential necessary for a portable career employment. Service members must be on Title 10

military orders for the spouse to receive this benefit.

Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) is an independent, quasi-judicial agency in the Executive

branch that serves as the guardian of Federal merit systems.

United States Office of Special Counsel (OSC) has authority to prosecute USERRA claims involving

federal executive agencies before the MSPB under certain conditions. For a USERRA complaint to

reach OSC, the person must have filed a complaint with DOL VETS, the complaint must involve a

federal executive agency, the person must have received notice from DOL VETS that it investigated

the complaint and was unable to resolve it, and the person must make a request to DOL VETS that the

complaint be referred to OSC for possible legal representation before the MSPB.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster

Loan (MREIDL) program to provide funds to eligible small businesses to meet their ordinary and

necessary operating expenses that they could have met, but were unable to meet, because an essential

employee was “called-up” to active duty in their role as a National Guard or Reserve service member.

Post Deployment Benefits Websites

Post Deployment Health Benefits Websites

Government and military websites

TRICARE Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) provides 180 days of transitional

health care benefits to members of the military and their families when the service member meets

certain eligibility requirements.

TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based health plan that qualified National Guard and Reserve

service members may purchase. TRICARE Reserve Select requires a monthly premium and offers
- 314 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

coverage similar to TRICARE Standard and Extra. TRICARE Reserve Select applies to National

Guard and Reserve service members and their families when not on active duty.

The Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) is a premium-based health care program that

offers temporary transitional health coverage (typically for eighteen or thirty-six months) after eligibility

for TRICARE ends, acting as a bridge between military health benefits and civilian health plans. The

CHCBP provides a conversion plan similar to TRICARE Standard and requires that eligible service

members or their families enroll within sixty days of separation from active duty or loss of eligibility

under TRICARE–TAMP.

TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) is a voluntary, premium-based dental insurance plan administered

by United Concordia Companies, Inc. For enrollees, the TDP covers a wide range of diagnostic,

preventive and restorative services through a network of more than 64,000 participating dentists, or

through a nonparticipating dentist at an additional cost. The TDP is available to active duty family

members, members of the National Guard and Reserve, and family members of National Guard and

Reserve service members.

TRICARE Pharmacy Program provides a world-class pharmacy benefit through TRICARE to all

eligible uniformed service members, retirees, and family members, including beneficiaries age sixty-five

and older. The TRICARE Pharmacy Program provides outpatient prescription drugs to more than 9.5

million beneficiaries.

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care provides information on the various health care

programs administered by the VA including descriptions of the programs, eligibility requirements,

benefits for family members, and co-pay information.

Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA (CHAMPVA) provides an overview of the program,

eligibility requirements, description of the benefits, and general exclusions from the program.

Education and Training Benefits Websites

Government and military websites

Department of Defense (DoD) Voluntary Education Program provides an overview of the program and

links to Service-level education programs, policy, and other military education-related services.

Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) supports the off-duty voluntary

education programs of the DoD by helping eligible service members and their families pursue their

education goals. DANTES provides programs and services in certification, counselor support, distance

learning, and examinations, and manages the Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program.
- 315 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC) is a network of universities and colleges that provides

education opportunities for service members and their families. Included in the SOC degree network

system are SOC Army (SOCAD), SOC Marine Corps (SOCMAR), SOC Navy (SOCNAV), SOC

Coast Guard (SOCCOAST), and SOC National Guard (SOCGuard).

DoD Education Activity (DoDEA) is a field activity of the Office of the Secretary of Defense. DoDEA

schools include Department of Defense Schools - Europe (DoDDS-E), Department of Defense Schools

- Pacific (DoDDS-P)/Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools - Guam (DDESS-G),

and the Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools (DDESS).

Sure Start is a DoDEA program for command-sponsored children stationed at overseas installations.

Sure Start is based on the Department of Health and Human Services’ Head Start model. The Sure

Start program assists qualified preschool-age military children by providing education, health, and social

services based on income and need guidelines. The services provided by the Sure Start program are

designed to involve the children, their families, schools, and communities to ensure a comprehensive,

coordinated approach to early childhood education.

DoD Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program provides a lifetime benefit

of up to $4,000 of financial assistance for spouses of junior active duty or activated National Guard and

Reserve members pursuing an Associate’s Degree or a license or credential necessary for a portable career

Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty (MGIB) provides information on the benefit including eligibility

requirements, application procedures, a listing of educational programs covered by the MGIB, and

payment procedures and time limits for the benefit.

Montgomery GI Bill–Selected Reserve (MGIB–SR) provides eligibility requirements for the benefit,

application procedures, a listing of educational programs covered by the MGIB–SR, and payment

procedures and time limits for the benefit.

Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) provides questions and answers on eligibility for the

program, the current monthly benefits, time limitations on the benefit, and other general questions and

answers.

Veterans Education Assistance Program (VEAP) provides a general description of the program

including eligibility requirements and application procedures.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA) provides a general overview of the

program including eligibility requirements, period of eligibility, and application procedures.

Post-9/11 GI Bill provides increased educational benefits for service members pursuing training on or

after August 1, 2009. The benefit provides up to thirty-six months of financial assistance for degree
- 316 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

programs, certificate or correspondence courses, cooperative training, independent study programs,

apprenticeship/on-the-job training, vocational flight training programs, and remedial, refresher, and

deficiency training under certain circumstances. Upon completion of eligible military service, service

members have fifteen years to use the benefit.

eBenefits, available through the VA, is a one-stop shop for benefits-related online tools and information

for wounded warriors, veterans, service members, family members, and those who care for them.

The Army Continuing Education System (ACES) website provides information on education programs

and services offered to Soldiers and their families.

GoArmyEd provides access to quality education for Soldiers around the globe, helping them further

their professional and personal goals. GoArmyEd brings together approximately 148 programs from

28 different educational institutions offering a broad range of education opportunities. Through

GoArmyEd, Soldiers can earn a certificate, associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree from a home

institution. Soldiers may also take classes from multiple colleges and universities through web-based

courses that can be completed anytime and anywhere.

The National Guard Virtual Armory Education Center summarizes the education benefits available

to mobilized National Guard service members and their families. It also provides summaries of the

individual state benefits available to National Guard service members and their families.

The Marine Corps Lifelong Learning Program provides personal and professional learning

opportunities for Marines regardless of duty station through the Voluntary Education Program and

Marine Corps Libraries.

The Navy College Program (NCP) provides opportunities for Sailors to earn college degrees by

providing academic credit for Navy training, work experience, and off-duty education. The NCP website

lists links to education counselors, financial grants, and loans. It also provides information on the

SOCNAV.

The Air Force Virtual Education Center (AFVEC) provides information on Airmen’s education benefits

and provides a one-stop-shop for all higher education needs.

The Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) is the largest multi-campus community college in

the world. CCAF is an accredited institution that provides transcript services to Air Force personnel as

well as associate degrees in applied science.

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) Institute provides information on education opportunities,

services, and financial aid for members of the Coast Guard and their families.
- 317 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Wounded Warrior Benefits Websites

Government and military websites

Defense Finance Accounting Service (DFAS) delivers accounting and finance services to the Military

Services, as well as those who support war fighters defending the country. DFAS administers military

and retirement pay for service members and the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). Included on the DFAS

website are sections detailing Wounded Warrior Pay and information on disability retirement pay.

TRICARE Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP) provides assistive technology and

services to people with disabilities, federal managers, supervisors, IT professionals, and wounded services

members free of charge.

TRICARE Health Benefits for Injured Active Duty Service Members provides an overview of the

various health care benefits wounded warriors may become eligible to receive through TRICARE.

Warrior Care is the DoD’s official website for wounded warrior care. The website serves as a portal to

various resources.

The Wounded Warrior Resource Center (WWRC) is a DoD website providing wounded service

members, their families, and caregivers with information they need on military facilities, health care

services, and benefits. It supports access to the Wounded Warrior Resource Call Center and trained

specialists who are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone at 1-800-342-9647

or by email at wwrc@militaryonesource.com. The website lists specific dialing information for other

countries.

Yellow Ribbon America provides the national framework to organize America’s cities and towns,

delivering immediate and direct support to America’s deployed and returning military personnel,

and their families. The Welcome Home Project/Military Injured Support provides a welcome home

ceremony for injured service members and provides returning wounded service members with gift

baskets to thank them for their service.

National Resource Directory (NRD), a partnership among the DoD, Department of Labor (DOL),

and VA, is a website for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, and those

who support them. It provides access to services and resources at the national, state, and local levels to

support recovery, rehabilitation, and community reintegration. Topics on the site address benefits and

compensation, education and training, employment, family and caregiver support, health, homeless

assistance, housing, transportation and travel, and other services and resources.

VA Disability Compensation is a tax-free benefit paid to a veteran because of injuries or diseases that

happened while on active duty, or were made worse by active military service. It is also paid to certain

veterans disabled from VA health care. The benefits are tax-free.
- 318 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) provides answers to

frequently asked questions, a list of contacts for TSGLI, a schedule of payments for traumatic loss,

information on obtaining a TSGLI form, and the TSGLI procedures guide.

The VA Vet Center program is designed to provide readjustment counseling to veterans exposed to the

uniquely stressful conditions of military service in a combat theatre of operations.

Social Security Administration (SSA) Disability Benefits for Wounded Warriors provides an overview

of the benefits available to wounded warriors including expedited processing of disability claims for

military service members. Benefits available through SSA are different than those from the VA and

require a separate application. The expedited process is used for military service members who

become disabled while on active military service on or after October 1, 2001, regardless of where the

disability occurs.

Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2) assists and advocates for severely wounded, ill, and

injured Soldiers and their families by supporting and advising them throughout medical treatment,

rehabilitation, and transition back into the Army or the civilian community.

Always a Soldier Program is sponsored by the Army Materiel Command (AMC) and is designed to

help wounded veterans find jobs or internships. Soldiers can use the website to complete an employment

information form, which will be reviewed by an Always a Soldier program coordinator.

Warrior Transition Command provides strategic direction, and develops, integrates, synchronizes, and

assesses plans, policy, capabilities, and resources for warrior care initiatives and programs dedicated to the

support, care, and healing of wounded, ill and injured Soldiers, their families, and caregivers.

The Army Reserve Warrior and Family Assistance Center (WFAC) provides assistance to Reserve

Soldiers, veterans who served in the Army Reserve, retirees from the Army Reserve, and families of

all Army Reserve Soldiers through medical care, military and VA benefits, personal actions, financial

counseling, and individual and family counseling.

Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment provides and facilitates assistance to wounded, injured, and/

or ill Marines, Sailors attached to or in support of Marine units, and their family members throughout

the phases of recovery.

Marine for Life Injured Support Program (M4L-IS) assists both combat and non-combat injured

Marines and Sailors and their families by providing needs-based individual and family assistance,

bridging the gap between military medical care and care provided by the VA, assisting with adjustment

back to a civilian life, and assisting with reintegration into the active or Reserve force.
- 319 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Navy Safe Harbor–Severely Injured Support Program provides personalized support and assistance

to injured Sailors and their families by providing educational information on injuries, assistance with

home accommodations, transportation accommodations, workplace accommodations, education and

job training, personal and family counseling, child care information, and information and assistance for

financial and benefit issues.

Air Force Wounded Warrior Program provides support for Airmen that have a combat or hostile-related

injury or illness requiring long-term care. The program works hand-in-hand with the Air Force Survivor

Assistance Program and Airman and Family Readiness Centers to ensure Airmen receive professional

support and care from the point of injury to no less than five years after separation or retirement.

National Guard Bureau Warrior Support serves those who served America by providing a Transition

Assistance Advisor in each state and territory to help National Guard members and their families with

accessing VA benefits and filing claims, TRICARE, state benefits, and access to community resources.

Community–based websites

American Legion is a large, nonprofit veteran service organization that supports the needs of military

personnel who have sustained severe injuries as they prepare to return to local communities. The

American Legion operates worldwide through over 15,000 American Legion Posts.

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) provides free assistance for transition, homeless issues, disaster relief

grants for natural disasters and other emergencies, and general assistance and advocacy.

Fisher House provides airline tickets, using donated frequent flyer miles, to family and friends of service

members who were hospitalized as a result of their service in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/

Operation New Dawn (OND). The Fisher House Foundation also provides temporary lodging and

transportation support for these family members and friends.

Heroes to Hometowns is designed to provide support to service members who, because of injuries

sustained, can no longer serve in the military. The program provides emergency financial assistance,

helps adapt homes and vehicles to accommodate the service member’s disability, provides child

care support, arranges transportation to medical appointments, and assists with the administrative

requirements of accessing government benefits and entitlements.

Operation Warfighter Program, sponsored by the DoD, is a temporary assignment or internship

program for service members who are undergoing therapy at military treatment facilities in the United

States. Operation Warfighter is designed to provide recuperating service members with meaningful

activity outside of the hospital environment that assists in their wellness and offers a formal means of

transition back to the military or civilian workforce.
- 320 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) provides public outreach, youth education, and

other community support. The VFW website provides news and updates and assistance on accessing

benefits and entitlements provided by the VA.

Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) assists those men and women of the Military Services who have

been severely injured during the conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations around the world.

The WWP website provides advocacy, coping services, family support, and other programs and services

to assist wounded warriors in returning to civilian life.

Survivor Benefits Websites

Government and military websites

DFAS delivers accounting and finance services to the Military Services, as well as those who support war

fighters defending the country. DFAS administers military and retirement pay for service members and

the SBP and Reserve Component SBP (RCSBP).

National Cemetery Administration (NCA) provides information on burial benefits for members of the

United States military and operates government cemeteries across the country.

Military Funeral Honors are available through DoD to family members of eligible veterans of the

uniformed Services. The core elements of military funeral honors include flag folding, flag presentation,

and the playing of Taps.

VA Survivors Benefits provides an overview of the various benefits provided to survivors of service

members who die while in service and after their service is complete.

The VA Vet Center program is designed to provide readjustment counseling to veterans exposed to

the uniquely stressful conditions of military service in a combat theatre of operations. VA bereavement

counseling is offered to parents, spouses, and children of military personnel who died in the service of

their country. Family members of Reserve and National Guard service members who die while on duty

are also eligible. VA’s bereavement counseling is free of charge and provided at community-based Vet

Centers.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) provides an overview of the program, coverage amounts,

cost, and additional information.

Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI) provides answers to frequently asked

questions, information on the FSGLI premium rates, a link to the FSGLI handbook, and the FSGLI

procedures guide.
- 321 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) provides an overview of the program, coverage amounts, cost,

policy conversion information, and additional information.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) provides information on the program, a link to a

DIC fact sheet, and instructions on applying for the benefit. The DIC website also provides application

instructions for the Parent(s) DIC benefit.

Death Pension provides an overview of the benefit, eligibility requirements, information on the income

restriction, and application instructions.

DEA provides an overview of the benefit, eligibility requirements, period of eligibility, and instructions

for applying for the benefit.

SSA Survivors Benefits allows beneficiaries to apply for certain kinds of benefits, find local Social

Security offices, request Social Security-related documents, and receive copies of SSA publications.

Surviving spouses, former spouses, dependent children, and dependent parents may be eligible for Social

Security Survivor Insurance upon the death of a worker who has paid Social Security benefits.

Army Casualty provides casualty assistance resources for family members to assist them through their

bereavement. Operated by the Army Casualty and Mortuary Affairs Operations Center (CMAOC),

the Army Casualty site contains links to publications, laws, forms, benefits, terms, acronyms, and the

Survivor’s Casualty Assistance Guide.

Army Long Term Family Case Management (ALTFCM) provides support to families of fallen Soldiers

by assisting with concerns, providing information on services and programs, and referring surviving

family members to various outreach programs for issues that arise in the months and years following the

loss of a Soldier. The ALTFCM continues to assist surviving family members after transitioning from

the Casualty Assistance Officer.

Army Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) provides family members of fallen warriors access to support,

information, and services at a location where they reside and for as long as the family members desire.

The Army National Guard (ARNG) Casualty Notification/Casualty Assistance assists the Army

CMAOC and Casualty Assistance Centers with the mission of assigning Casualty Notification and

Casualty Assistance Officers to help families during their time of need.

Marine Corps Casualty Assistance provides assistance to Marine Corps families with compassion,

dignity, and honor.

Navy Casualty Assistance Division provides family members of fallen Sailors with information and

assistance during their time of need. The website provides several links to forms and publications and a

downloadable survivor’s guide.
- 322 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Armed Forces Crossroads Casualty and Loss provides links and information on loss, the grieving

process, support groups, and benefits.

Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) Casualty Services website provides links and documents for service

members and their families including contact information, forms, and death benefit information. Rather

than being subject-oriented, the site uses a question and answer format to address a wide range of topics.

Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center (AFMAOC) assists family members by coordinating all

available resources to support family needs following an unexpected loss of life.

Coast Guard Decedent Affairs assists the family of deceased Coast Guard service members in making

funeral arrangements and helping the next of kin obtain any compensation or entitlements they may

be due.

Community–based websites

Armed Forces Foundation’s Bereavement Program offers family retreats, provides for professional grief

counseling in an attempt to help families cope with their loss, and helps to offset funeral costs and travel

arrangements for military families in times of mourning.

American Red Cross Casualty Travel Assistance Program (CTAP) provides travel assistance for two

immediate family members to attend a memorial or funeral service for a service member killed on active

duty in a combat zone and to travel to the bedside of a service member wounded in a combat zone.

Assistance includes funding for roundtrip airfare, lodging costs, and food and incidentals. The American

Red Cross also provides assistance and information in preparing, developing, and obtaining sufficient

evidence to support applicants’ claims for veterans’ benefits.

Children’s Grief Education Association (CGEA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the

needs of grieving children and families and to providing education and support to those who serve them.

Included on the CGEA website are specific coping mechanisms targeted to children of military families.

Comfort Zone Camp is a bereavement camp for children started by West Point alumni. The camp’s

program is designed to mirror the way a child grieves. Developed by grief therapists, it combines

activities such as arts, crafts, and games with quieter periods of reflection, allowing children to heal

through play, smiles, tears, and memories. Each child is matched with a “Big Buddy,” a trained adult

volunteer who spends the entire weekend with that child to provide support and encouragement.

Additionally, the children participate in Healing Circles led by experienced grief professionals.

Families United for Troops and Their Mission is a nonprofit organization. They are a grassroots

coalition of Gold Star and Blue Star families that provides a means for Gold Star Families, who have

lost loved ones in the defense of the United States, to find solace in each other’s company.
- 323 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Gold Star Wives of America (GSW) is an organization of widows and widowers whose spouses died

while on active duty in the military or as the result of a military service-connected cause. The primary

mission of GSW is to provide service, support, and friendship to others who have suffered a similar loss.

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Inc. (TAPS) is a national, nonprofit organization made up

of, and providing services to, all those who have lost a service member. TAPS provides surviving family

members with assistance through peer support, crisis intervention, casework, grief and trauma resources,

and other services through the TAPS support network.

Reintegration Phase Websites

Reintegrating to Normal Life Websites

Government and military websites

Department of Defense (DoD) Yellow Ribbon Program provides National Guard and Reserve members

and their families with information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout

the deployment cycle.

After Deployment (AD), a jointly developed website by the Department of Defense (DoD) and the

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is a behavioral health web portal focused on post deployment

health problems. AD’s intended outreach includes active duty service members, veterans, and their

families. It also presents particular advantages for National Guard and Reserve units not located near a

military treatment facility (MTF) or otherwise located in areas lacking providers who are knowledgeable

about military-related adjustment concerns. AD’s twelve programs focus on Adjusting to War Memories,

Dealing with Depression, Handling Stress, Improving Relationships, Succeeding at Work, Overcoming

Anger, Sleeping Better, Controlling Alcohol and Drugs, Helping Kids Deal with Deployment, Seeking

Spiritual Fitness, Living with Physical Injuries, and Balancing Your Life.

Project Families Overcoming Under Stress (FOCUS) is designed to help service members and families

address the impact of multiple deployments, combat stress, and high operational tempo on children and

families. The program has received extremely positive feedback from commanders, program managers,

members and families, and has shown significant positive impacts on reduction of conflict behaviors

and emotional symptoms in children and has also resulted in an increase in their positive behaviors. At

the installation level, Project FOCUS is considered another service within the overall family support

umbrella continuum of care, typically provided through the installation family center. Project FOCUS is

currently available only on select Marine Corps and Navy installations.

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email.

Military OneSource also offers face-to-face counseling services for short-term, non-medical concerns
- 324 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

such as improving relationships at home and at work, marital issues, grief and loss issues (normal

reactions that would benefit from short-term support), and adjusting to a change in situation (such as a

return from deployment or permanent change of duty station).

Information about the Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) Program is available on

MilitaryHOMEFRONT.

MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a searchable directory of worldwide installation and state-related military

information, programs, and services. It provides easy access to fast facts, articles, website resource

directories, photos, contact information, major units, weather, and maps. With this resource, users can

quickly find relevant information about any installation or military resources in their state. Contact

information for installation chapels can be found under the program or service “Chapels.” Contact

information for installation family centers can be found under the program or service “Family Center.”

MilitaryHOMEFRONT is the official DoD website for quality of life information for leaders, service

providers, and troops and family members. The Troops and Family Members section of the website

has comprehensive information and links on a number of topics including deployment, combat stress,

casualty assistance, counseling, Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act

(USERRA), and transition assistance.

MilitaryHOMEFRONT Deployment Connections is an online handbook for coping with deployment.

It is intended to make it easier to find deployment-related information and support services for active

and reserve military members and their families during all phases of deployment and mobilization.

Yellow Ribbon America unites Americans, motivating and assisting America’s communities to give

direct support to their local military members and their families. Yellow Ribbon America provides the

national framework to organize America’s cities and towns, delivering immediate and direct support

to America’s deployed and returning military personnel and their families. The Deployed Military

Members & Family Support Program organizes community outreach events to help communities

welcome home military members and thank their families for their sacrifices.

Department of Defense Yellow Ribbon Program is a DoD-wide deployment support and reintegration

program for National Guard and Reserve service members and their families to help them connect

with local resources before, during, and after deployments. Yellow Ribbon events provide information,

services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout the deployment cycle to help

minimize the stress of a deployment and family separation.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a DoD organization operated through a

network of volunteers in local ESGR committees in each state, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto

Rico, and the Virgin Islands. ESGR assists service members in preventing, resolving, or reducing

employer/employee problems and misunderstandings related to USERRA through mediation and

ombudsman services.
- 325 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

VA Readjustment Counseling is available to service members who served in any combat zone and

their family members through Vet Centers across the country. The VA provides a wide range of

services including individual counseling, group counseling, marital and family counseling, bereavement

counseling, medical referrals, assistance in applying for VA Benefits, employment counseling, guidance

and referral, alcohol/drug assessments, information and referral to community resources, military sexual

trauma counseling and referral, and outreach and community education.

TRICARE Assistance Program (TRIAP) is available to eligible United States beneficiaries and provides

online access to counseling for short-term, non-medical issues. Eligible beneficiaries can access TRIAP

for an unlimited number of times, and services are confidential and non-reportable. Eligible beneficiaries

include active duty service members, active duty family members, Selected Reserve service members and

their families who are enrolled in TRICARE Select, and those covered under the Transitional Assistance

Management Program (TAMP).

Army OneSource provides Army families with accurate and up-to-date articles and information on

various topics including customs, home and personal safety, managing deployment, and understanding

military pay.

Army and Air National Guard Virtual Armory provides information on the various programs and

services available to members of the National Guard and their families.

The National Guard’s Family Readiness Program provides National Guard service members and their

families with information and assistance to help ensure they are prepared for whatever may be ahead of

them. To aid families in navigating through military life, the National Guard has developed Six Steps

to Family Readiness, addressing challenges, victories, and support networks available to National Guard

service members and their families.

Army Reserve Family Programs provides information and assistance to members of the Army Reserve

on a variety of family programs and services.

Army Chaplaincy provides spiritual and religious support to Soldiers and their families across the active

and reserve components of the Army. Army chaplains provide families with counseling and family

readiness programs, such as the Strong Bonds program, to help strengthen their resiliency.

Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) serves Marines and their families by providing programs

and services for social and recreational opportunities, prevention and intervention programs, programs

designed to strengthen families, and business programs such as the Marine Corps Exchange.

Navy Fleet and Family Support Program (FFSP) provides unified, customer-focused, consistent, and

efficient programs and services to support sustained mission and Navy readiness.
- 326 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Navy Chaplain Care provides religious ministry and pastoral care to Sailors, Marines, and their families

to maintain spiritual, moral, and ethical readiness.

The Air Force Personal and Family Readiness Program assists Airmen and their families in coping

with deployments during the pre-deployment stage, during deployment, and when preparing for

homecoming.

Armed Forces Crossroads serves as an information repository for a variety of Airmen and family

programs including deployment support, education, financial readiness, health and wellness, relocation,

and teens and youth.

Air Force Chaplain Agency provides pastoral care to Airmen and their families. Chaplain services can

provide spiritual guidance for Airmen and their families and help to strengthen family bonds.

Headquarters and Deputy Chaplain of the Coast Guard provides pastoral care to members of the Coast

Guard family. Chaplain services can provide spiritual guidance for Coast Guard members and their

families and help to strengthen family bonds.

The Joint Family Support Assistance Program ( JFSAP) delivers high-quality, mobile family support

and services to families facing the same deployment-related challenges as installation-based families

but whose access to support is more challenging. JFSAP teams have been stood up at all National

Guard state joint force headquarters and operate in collaboration with existing family support resources,

augmenting their activities and filling gaps where they exist. JFSAP teams provide information and

referrals to community services and support, non-medical counseling and education to individuals,

families and groups, child and youth services, financial education and counseling, on-demand support for

deployment events such as reunion ceremonies and pre-deployment meetings, and community capacity

building to support families’ access to local resources and support.

Project Youth Extension Service (YES) expands JFSAP resources by engaging college students across

the country for a year-long voluntary service opportunity supporting military families. College students

are trained in relevant curriculum and deployed to different states to provide programming and support

for children and youth. Project YES offers educational programming (curriculum and/or activities) that

is relevant, engaging, hands-on and fun for children or youth. 

Community–based websites

Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) works with the DoD to provide a

number of programs and services, including home visit counseling and crisis counseling.

American Red Cross offers confidential counseling, guidance, information, referrals, and other social

services to all military personnel (active duty, National Guard, and Reserves) and their families.
- 327 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention Websites

Government and military websites

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Readjustment Counseling is available to service members who

served in any combat zone and their family members through Vet Centers across the country. The

VA provides a wide range of services including individual counseling, group counseling, marital and

family counseling, bereavement counseling, medical referrals, assistance in applying for VA Benefits,

employment counseling, guidance and referral, alcohol/drug assessments, information and referral to

community resources, military sexual trauma counseling and referral, and outreach and community

education.

Office of Mental Health Services, VA, maintains and improves the health and well-being of veterans

through excellence in health care, social services, education, and research. Included in the Office of

Mental Health Services are the VA efforts for suicide prevention.

Mental Health Self-Assessment (MHSA) Program allows service members or family members to

perform a behavioral health self-assessment anonymously either by phone or online. Self-assessments

are provided for depression, bipolar disorder, alcohol use, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and

generalized anxiety disorder. The program provides immediate results, referrals, and relevant resources at

the end of each assessment.

The Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE)

Outreach Center provides information and resources about psychological health (PH), PTSD, and

traumatic brain injury (TBI) to service members, families, friends, military leaders, clinicians, educators,

support personnel, clergy, researchers, and deployed government civilians. The DCoE Outreach Center

provides in-depth information and resources related to the spectrum of PH matters and TBI and

assists service members, veterans and their families by connecting them with the resources they need to

promote their resilience, recovery and reintegration. The DCoE Outreach Center is staffed by health

consultants and nurses with background expertise in PH and TBI. The DCoE Outreach Center is

available twenty-four hours a day and can be contacted by phone at 1-866-966-1020 or by email at

resources@dcoeoutreach.org.

Military treatment facilities (MTFs) are available throughout the military and offer counseling services

on site by military behavioral health professionals and doctors. Service members exhibiting high levels of

distress, emotional or behavioral symptoms interfering with everyday functioning, or threatening harm

to themselves or others should be immediately referred to the MTF for a psychological evaluation. The

nearest MTF can be found through the TRICARE MTF locator.

Military OneSource provides information and resources to help balance work and family life.

Consultants are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by phone, online, or via email. For
- 328 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

individuals who need professional assistance for suicide, Military OneSource can provide an assessment

and can provide referrals for counseling and other services. Military OneSource can be contacted

through their website or by phone stateside at 1-800-342-9647.The website lists specific dialing

information for other countries.

TRICARE Assistance Program (TRIAP) is available to eligible United States beneficiaries and provides

online access to counseling for short-term, non-medical issues. Eligible beneficiaries can access TRIAP

for an unlimited number of times, and services are confidential and non-reportable. Eligible beneficiaries

include active duty service members, active duty family members, Selected Reserve service members and

their families who are enrolled in TRICARE Select, and those covered under the Transitional Assistance

Management Program (TAMP).

TRICARE Mental Health and Behavior provides service members, family members, and retirees who

are TRICARE beneficiaries and are experiencing symptoms of stress, depression, grief, or anxiety with

outpatient behavioral health care services. TRICARE covers outpatient psychotherapy at a maximum of

two sessions per week in any combination of individual, family, collateral, or group sessions.

Military Pathways provides free, anonymous behavioral health and alcohol self-assessments for family

members and service members in all branches including the National Guard and Reserve. Military

Pathways is available online, over the phone, and at special events held at installations worldwide. Selfassessments include a series of questions that, when linked together, help create a picture of how an

individual is feeling and whether he or she could benefit from talking to a health professional.

National Suicide Prevention Initiative (NSPI) is an effort launched by the Substance Abuse and

Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Center for Mental Health Services. The NSPI

is a collaborative, multiproject initiative designed to incorporate best practices and research toward

reducing the incidence of suicide nationwide. Several SAMHSA suicide prevention programs currently

are underway under NSPI including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the Suicide Prevention

Resource Center, and the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), is a twenty-four-hour, toll-free,

confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. By

dialing 1-800-273-TALK, the call is routed to the nearest crisis center in a national network of more

than 140 crisis centers. The Lifeline’s national network of local crisis centers provide crisis counseling

and behavioral health referrals day and night.

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) promotes the implementation of the National

Strategy for Suicide Prevention and enhances the nation’s behavioral health infrastructure by providing

states, government agencies, private organizations, colleges and universities, and suicide survivor

and behavioral health consumer groups with access to the science and experience that can support

their efforts to develop programs, implement interventions, and promote policies to prevent suicide.
- 329 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

The SPRC website also includes information on state and local prevention resources. State and local

resources are available on the SPRC website.

Army Behavioral Health provides well-being information for service members and families, including

a number of helpful Frequently Asked Questions regarding behavioral health concerns and resources,

including information specific to combat and operational stress. The site has a section on suicide

prevention that includes an article on Army suicide data, the VA suicide hotline number, and material

about suicide prevention.

Army Public Health Command implements preventive medicine and public health and wellness

services under the Directorate of Health Promotion and Wellness (DHPW). The Army Public Health

Command website offers a podcast that discusses suicide prevention as well as a suicide prevention

presentation for Soldiers.

Army Suicide Prevention Program strives to improve readiness through the development and

enhancement of the suicide prevention policies designed to minimize suicide behavior, thereby

preserving mission effectiveness through individual readiness for Soldiers, their families, and

Department of the Army (DA) civilians.

Army OneSource provides Army families with accurate and up-to-date articles and information on

various topics including customs, home and personal safety, managing deployment, and understanding

military pay.

Army and Air National Guard Virtual Armory provides information on the various programs and

services available to members of the National Guard and their families.

The National Guard’s Family Readiness Program provides National Guard service members and their

families with information and assistance to help ensure they are prepared for whatever may be ahead of

them. To aid families in navigating through military life, the National Guard has developed Six Steps

to Family Readiness, addressing challenges, victories, and support networks available to National Guard

service members and their families.

Army Reserve Family Programs provides information and assistance to members of the Army Reserve

on a variety of family programs and services.

Army Chaplaincy provides spiritual and religious support to Soldiers and their families across the active

and reserve components of the Army. Army chaplains provide families with counseling and family

readiness programs, such as the Strong Bonds program, to help strengthen their resiliency.
- 330 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

The Marine Corps Suicide Prevention Program, in the Personal and Family Readiness Division

at Headquarters Marine Corps, supports force preservation by providing resources and training to

commanders, Marines, and Marine families that reduce suicides and suicide attempts.

Combat Operational Stress Control (COSC), a branch of the Personal and Family Readiness Division,

Manpower and Reserve Affairs Department, Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC), was chartered

November 2005 to be a single integrating agency for all matters pertaining to combat/operational stress

control in the Marine Corps. The COSC website provides information, references, links, and other

resources concerning combat/operational stress.

Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES) COSC program provides training for leaders, units, and

families throughout the entire deployment cycle.The MARFORRES COSC website provides

information, deployment briefs, videos, resources, references, and testimonials related to combat/

operational stress.

Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) serves Marines and their families by providing programs

and services for social and recreational opportunities, prevention and intervention programs, programs

designed to strengthen families, and business programs such as the Marine Corps Exchange.

Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center provides information on disease prevention and health

promotion to ensure mission readiness. The website addresses many aspects of health and wellness,

including suicide warning signs and risk factors, stress, nutrition, behavioral health, substance abuse,

physical fitness, and tobacco cessation.

Navy Reserve Psychological Outreach Program This resource management program for service members

and families provides a comprehensive behavioral health screening. It connects service members to the

service provider most able to meet their needs, taking into consideration the behavioral health screening

and other factors like location.

Navy Suicide Prevention Program provides information on suicide warning signs, myths and truths, and

how to help.

Naval Center Combat and Operational Stress Control (NCCOSC) coordinates DoD and Navy Bureau

of Medicine and Surgey (BUMED) policies and programs for Psychological Health and TBI, mindful

of DoD’s guiding strategic goals of Access to Care, Quality, Transition and Coordination of Care,

Surveillance and Resilience Promotion.

Navy Fleet and Family Support Program (FFSP) provides unified, customer-focused, consistent, and

efficient programs and services to support sustained mission and Navy readiness.
- 331 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

Navy Chaplain Care provides religious ministry and pastoral care to Sailors, Marines, and their families

to maintain spiritual, moral, and ethical readiness.

The Navy Reserve Homeport This comprehensive website features Navy Reserve resources such as

the Ready Now Strategic Plan, family readiness information, voting assistance, and information on the

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.

Air Force Suicide Prevention Program provides information and tools to members of the Air Force

community (Suicide Prevention Program Managers, commanders, gatekeepers, etc.) in their efforts to

help reduce Air Force suicides.

The Air Force Personal and Family Readiness Program assists Airmen and their families in coping

with deployments during the pre-deployment stage, during deployment, and when preparing for

homecoming.

Armed Forces Crossroads serves as an information repository for a variety of Airmen and family

programs including deployment support, education, financial readiness, health and wellness, relocation,

and teens and youth.

Air Force Chaplain Agency provides pastoral care to Airmen and their families. Chaplain services can

provide spiritual guidance for Airmen and their families and help to strengthen family bonds.

Coast Guard Suicide Prevention Program provides policy and procedures, and assigns responsibilities for

the Coast Guard’s Suicide Prevention Program.

Headquarters and Deputy Chaplain of the Coast Guard provides pastoral care to members of the Coast

Guard family. Chaplain services can provide spiritual guidance for Coast Guard members and their

families and help to strengthen family bonds.

The Joint Family Support Assistance Program ( JFSAP) delivers high-quality, mobile family support

and services to families facing the same deployment-related challenges as installation-based families,

but whose access to support is more challenging. JFSAP teams have been stood up at all National

Guard state joint force headquarters and operate in collaboration with existing family support resources,

augmenting their activities and filling gaps where they exist. JFSAP teams provide information and

referrals to community services and support, non-medical counseling and education to individuals,

families and groups, child and youth services, financial education and counseling, on-demand support for

deployment events such as reunion ceremonies and pre-deployment meetings, and community capacity

building to support families’ access to local resources and support.

Project Youth Extension Service (YES) expands JFSAP resources by engaging college students across

the country for a year-long voluntary service opportunity supporting military families. College students
- 332 -

Appendix B – Applicable Websites

are trained in relevant curriculum and deployed to different states to provide programming and support

for children and youth. Project YES offers educational programming (curriculum and activities) that is

relevant, engaging, hands-on and fun for children or youth.

Community–based websites

Armed Services Young Men’s Christian Association (ASYMCA) works with the DoD to provide a

number of programs and services, including home visit counseling and crisis counseling. 

The American Red Cross offers confidential counseling, guidance, information, referrals, and other

social services to all military personnel (active duty, National Guard, and Reserves) and their families.
- 333 -

Military Deployment Guide

Appendix C Related Publications

The following publications can provide service members and their families additional information on the

topics addressed in this guide.

Deployment Overview Publications

Government and military publications

Mobilization and Deployment Information and Resources Guide, published by The Office of the

Assistant Secretary of Defense, Reserve Affairs, provides National Guard and Reserve service members

with information assisting them in performing their military duties.

Step by Step Mobilization Family Resource Guide, published by the United States Army Reserve

Command (USARC), provides information to family members of Individual Ready Reserve (IRR)/

Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA)/USARC Augmentation Unit (UAU).

US Army Family Readiness Group Leader’s Handbook is part of the Operation Ready training program

and is designed to be used by FRG leaders for the active duty, National Guard, and Reserve.

US Army Family Readiness Support Assistant (FRSA): FRSA Resource Guide is part of the Operation

Ready training program and is designed primarily to inform FRSAs about their roles and responsibilities

in the ARFORGEN cycle process.

US Army Rear Detachment Commander’s Handbook is part of the Operation Ready training program

and describes how leadership and FRGs individually and in partnership support Soldiers and family

members through the ARFORGEN cycle process.

US Army Deployment Cycle Readiness: Soldier’s, and Family Member’s Handbook is part of the

Operation Ready training program and helps families prepare for the phases of the ARFORGEN cycle,

providing tips, ideas and resources.

US Army RESET Guide for Professionals is part of the Operation Ready training program and provides

reintegration guidance for professionals when dealing with Soldiers and family members.
- 334 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

US Army RESET Handbook for Soldiers, civilians and family members is part of the Operation Ready

training program and provides reintegration tips, ideas and resources for Soldier, civilians and family

members.

US Army RESET Guide for Leaders is part of the Operation Ready training program and provides

leaders a menu of recommendations to guide and motivate Soldiers/civilians and their family members

through the reset process.

US Army Leader’s Handbook: Trauma in the Unit is part of the Operation Ready training program

and provides information and guidance to leaders on how to help Soldiers, families and military units

understand and respond when traumatic events occur.

US Army Care Team Handbook is part of the Operation Ready training program and provides guidance

for Care Team volunteers to understand the Care Team’s role and to learn how to support Families effectively.

US Army Deployment Support Handbook: Children and Youth is part of the Operation Ready training

program and is designed for professionals to learn about the deployment readiness process and the

effects on children and youth.

US Army Deployment Readiness Handbook for Department of the Army (DA) Civilians and

Family Members is part of the Operation Ready training program and includes tips on preparing for

deployment, managing separation and reintegration and provides information on programs and resources

available to assist civilians and their families.

Operation Ready Smart Book provides supplemental information, regulations, policy guidance and other

key information. Note: the linked Smart Book does not have downloadable resources; resources listed in

the Smart Book can be accessed through the Army OneSource website.

Navy Individual Augmentee Sailor Handbook provides Sailors a resource for explaining the Individual

Augmentee process, and includes sections on the ECRC, Navy Mobilization Processing Sites, basic

combat skills information, warrior transition program, deployment readiness, travel, documents, medical/

dental issues, finances, property, family and friends, children and deployment, active duty single parents,

Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSCs), communication, additional assistance while deployed,

homecoming, redeployment gear inventory, and operational stress.

Navy Individual Augmentee Family Handbook provides family members of IA Sailors a resource

for explaining the IA process, and includes sections on important documents, financial topics, home

preparations, emergency preparedness, communication, emotions, family, children and deployment,

deployment activities for children, Rest and Recuperation (R&R) leave and tips, homecoming, assistance

while a Sailor is deployed, and a deployment readiness assessment.
- 335 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Pre-Deployment Phase Publications

Preparing Personal Affairs for Deployment Publications

Administrative Affairs Preparations Publications

Government and military publications

Servicemembers’ and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Handbook provides information on the

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI), the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI),

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) and Family

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI). The handbook provides overviews of these insurance

policies; procedures for terminating, reducing, restoring, or requesting coverage; procedures for

designating beneficiaries; procedures for filing death claims; and the required forms for each plan.

Legal Affairs Preparations Publications

Government and military publications

Taking Care of the Families of America’s Armed Forces is a comprehensive guide published by the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs) for National Guard and Reserve service

members and their families. In addition to other topics, the guide provides information on medical

benefits for family members, dental health benefits for family members, legal assistance, life insurance

options, military aid societies, the American Red Cross, veterans’ assistance benefits, education benefits,

small business assistance, Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)

features, family readiness programs, Military OneSource, and useful websites.

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Guide, published by the Judge Advocate General ( JAG), United States

Army, provides summaries of the law, guidance, and sample documents for common issues associated

with the law. Although the primary purpose of the guide is to assist Legal Assistance attorneys, it can

also provide military clients with a better understanding for their rights under the act.

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides a review of the financial and legal protections provided to service members under the SCRA.

The article includes sections on who is covered by the SCRA, key parts of the SCRA, waivers of rights

under the SCRA, and locating the SCRA.

Leaders Guide for Managing Marines in Distress is an interactive guide published by Marine Corps

Community Services (MCCS) that provides information for leaders on combat and operational stress,

financial problems, legal problems, grief and loss, suicidal behavior, and behavioral health problems.
- 336 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Financial Affairs Preparations Publications

Government and military publications

Taking Care of the Families of America’s Armed Forces is a comprehensive guide published by the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs) for National Guard and Reserve service

members and their families. In addition to other topics, the guide provides information on medical

benefits for family members, dental health benefits for family members, legal assistance, life insurance

options, military aid societies, the American Red Cross, veterans’ assistance benefits, education benefits,

small business assistance, USERRA features, family readiness programs, Military OneSource, and useful

websites.

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Guide, published by the JAG, United States Army, provides summaries

of the law, guidance, and sample documents for common issues associated with the law. Although the

primary purpose of the guide is to assist Legal Assistance attorneys, it can also provide military clients

with a better understanding of their rights under the act.

American Red Cross Services for Military Families is an article by Military OneSource that describes

programs and services available to service members and their families, lists eligibility requirements,

information on accessing assistance, volunteer opportunities, and health and safety training.

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides a review of the financial and legal protections provided to service members under the SCRA.

The article includes sections on who is covered by the SCRA, key parts of the SCRA, waivers of rights

under the SCRA, and locating the SCRA.

Army Reserve Finance Guide for Mobilizing Soldiers, September 2004 outlines the responsibilities

of leaders and Soldiers, information on military pay and how it changes during mobilization and

deployment, information on the mobilization/deployment process, travel pay information, and policies

concerning the government travel charge card.

Army in Europe Pamphlet 37-109, Deployed Soldiers Guide to Financial Entitlements, January 17,

2007, provides information on pay entitlements and allowances, eligibility requirements, and entitlement

and allowance amounts for Soldiers deployed in support of Operation New Dawn (OND) or Operation

Enduring Freedom (OEF).

Army in Europe Pamphlet 37-10, A Soldier’s Guide to Financial Readiness, February 16, 2007, provides

an overview of overseas entitlements, personal readiness, deployment readiness, and information on

military pay.
- 337 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

How to Read an Active Duty Army Leave and Earnings Statement, provided by the Defense Finance

Accounting Service (DFAS), lists the various fields found on an active duty Army leave and earnings

statement (LES) and describes the meaning of each field.

Leaders Guide for Managing Marines in Distress is an interactive guide published by MCCS that

provides information for leaders on combat and operational stress, financial problems, legal problems,

grief and loss, suicidal behavior, and behavioral health problems.

How to Read and Active Duty Navy Leave and Earnings Statement, provided by DFAS, lists the

various fields found on an active duty Navy LES and describes the meaning of each field.

How to Read and Active Duty Air Force Leave and Earnings Statement, provided by DFAS, lists the

various fields found on an active duty Air Force LES and describes the meaning of each field.

Air Force Aid Society Assistance Guide, Commanders, First Sergeants, and Supervisors, April 2009

provides Air Force leaders with an understanding of the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) organization to

educate them on identifying instances when the AFAS can help to assure the financial and emotional

well-being of their Airmen and family members.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Operating Manual, March 2004, consolidates and presents in an

easily referenced fashion Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) operating guidelines, policies, and

procedures. 

How to Read a Reserve and National Guard Leave and Earning Statement, provided by DFAS, lists

the various fields found on an Army or Air National Guard, Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, or Air Force

Reserve LES and describes the meaning of each field.

Community–based publications

American Red Cross Guide to Services provides an overview of the assistance provided by the American

Red Cross including service to military members and their families.

Employment Affairs Preparations Publications

Government and military publications

Taking Care of the Families of America’s Armed Forces is a comprehensive guide published by the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs) for National Guard and Reserve service

members and their families. In addition to other topics, the guide provides information on medical

benefits for family members, dental health benefits for family members, legal assistance, life insurance

options, military aid societies, the American Red Cross, veterans’ assistance benefits, education benefits,

small business assistance, USERRA features, family readiness programs, Military OneSource, and

useful websites.
- 338 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

A Non-Technical Resource Guide to the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights

Act (USERRA), March 2003, provided by the Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and

Training Service (VETS), presents an overview of USERRA and answers to frequently asked questions

in a clear and simple manner.

The Employment Law Guide, Uniformed Service Members, published by the DOL, provides plain

language explanations of labor-related regulations and answers to frequently asked questions for

employers and employees, including an entire chapter dedicated to USERRA.

Employer Resource Guide, April 2003, published by the National Committee for Employer Support

of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), assists civilian employers in understanding employment and

reemployment rights covered by USERRA. It provides tips for civilian employers, descriptions of

ESGR and the ESGR ombudsman services, information on USERRA, and points of contact within

DOL VETS.

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) is an article

published by Military OneSource that provides an overview of how the USERRA protects a service

member’s right to reemployment following a deployment. The article includes individual sections

regarding who is covered by the USERRA’s protections, what service members must do to be eligible

for the USERRA’s protections, what protections are provided by the USERRA, what protections

are not provided by the USERRA, and where to go if a service member feels that they are not being

treated fairly.

Preparing Families for Deployment Publications

Government and military publications

Mobilization and Deployment Information and Resources Guide, published by The Office of the

Assistant Secretary of Defense, Reserve Affairs, provides National Guard and Reserve service members

with information assisting them in performing their military duties.

Personal and Family Readiness Toolkit, January 2006, published by the Office of the Secretary of

Defense for Reserve Affairs, provides a wealth of information for National Guard and Reserve service

members to help prepare them and their families for potential deployments.

Our Sons, Our Daughters: A National Guard Parent’s Guidebook to Deployment features information

about the history of the Guard, family readiness groups, the Employer Support of the Guard and

Reserve (ESGR), raising grandchildren, emergency notification, and posttraumatic stress disorder

(PTSD).
- 339 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Preparing for Deployment: The Home Side, developed by Military OneSource, provides tips for

preparing for a deployment including emotional preparations, preparing your home and life for

deployment, and how to help children prepare for deployment.

Renting Your Home during Deployment, developed by Military OneSource, provides information on

what to know about renting out a home or arranging for a house sitter during deployment. The article

includes sections addressing the benefits of having someone in the home, deciding whether to charge

rent, finding a tenant or house sitter, and what to do before leaving.

Staying or Moving When Your Service Member Is Deployed, developed by Military OneSource,

provides a comparison of the pros and cons of staying near the installation or moving closer to family

when a spouse is deployed.

The United States Army Deployment Cycle Readiness: Soldier’s and Family Member’s Handbook helps

families of active duty, National Guard, and Army Reserve Soldiers prepare for the various stages within

the deployment cycle providing tips, ideas, and resources.

The Army’s Welcome to the Army Family: A First Guide for Army Spouses and Family Members

introduces new Army spouses and family members to military family life. It contains information on

aspects of Army life from military benefits to recreation. It also includes a glossary of Army terms and

abbreviations as well as a list of useful websites.

Soldier and Family Problem Solving Guide, provided as part of the Army’s Operation READY, provides

answers to many common problems families face prior to deployment through a flow chart method.

United States Army Europe (USAREUR) Family-Focused Deployment Guide provides family

members with information on chaplains, safety, financial preparations, legal preparations, medical

preparations, and other deployment-related topics.

USAREUR Deployment and Reunion Guide for Children Ages Three to Six provides an overview

of the deployment process and provides recommendations for explaining deployment to your children

between the ages of three and six.

USAREUR Deployment and Reunion Guide for Children Ages Seven to Twelve provides an overview

of the deployment process and provides recommendations for explaining deployment to your children

between the ages of seven and twelve.

USAREUR Army Brat Pack: See how the Army Brat Pack Handles Deployment provides an overview

of the deployment process and provides recommendations for explaining deployment to your children

over the age of thirteen.
- 340 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

A Guide to Help You Access Your Benefits and Entitlement While Your Soldier is Mobilized: Step by

Step Mobilization Family Resource Guide, published by the Army Reserve, explains the benefits and

entitlements available to Reserve families while the Soldier is mobilized. Website requires Common

Access Card (CAC) login.

California National Guard Family Readiness Handbook, February 2007, provides information and

resources for deploying National Guard and Reserve service members to ensure that their families are

prepared for their deployment.

Pre-Deployment Handbook for Marines and Families provides relevant deployment information,

checklists for the Marine and his/her family, as well as the resources available to the Marine and his/her

family.

Navy Deployment provides information to help active duty and Reserve Sailors and their families

prepare for a deployment. The guide contains separate sections on deployment documents, finances,

communication, emotional ups and downs, children and deployment, emergency preparedness, helpful

organizations, and children and homecoming. The guide also includes checklists for all types of

personnel affected by the deployment, including couples, singles, single parents, Individual Augmentee

(IA) Sailors, Reserve Sailors, and children.

Guidelines for Navy Reserve Families provides information for mobilized and activated Navy Reserve

Sailors and their families to help prepare for a deployment. The guide contains sections detailing

an overview of the mobilization process, and information on important documents, entitlements,

allowances, TRICARE benefits, survivor benefits, making the best of a mobilization, and homecoming.

Air Force Readiness EDGE: A Guide to Support Family Members with the Services of the Air Force

Integrated Delivery System is designed to support family members whose sponsors are involved in

deployment and mobilization. This guide provides checklists identifying potential family stressors,

explains specific behaviors and concerns related to deployment and post deployment, and provides links

to additional websites.

Pre-Deployment Health Care Benefits Publications

Government and military publications

TRICARE Prime Handbook: Your Guide to Program Benefits, November 2009, provides an overview

of TRICARE Prime including sections covering how to get care, covered services, claims, life events,

and information and assistance.

TRICARE Prime Remote Handbook: For Active Duty Service Members and their Families,

December 2009, provides an overview of TRICARE Prime Remote including sections on eligibility and

enrollment, getting care, covered services, claims, life events, and information and assistance.
- 341 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

TRICARE Standard Handbook: Your Guide to Using TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra,

December 2009, provides an overview of TRICARE Standard including sections on choosing

TRICARE Standard and Extra, how to get care, covered services, claims, life events, and information

and assistance.

TRICARE Overseas Choices at a Glance provides an overview of the various medical and dental care

options available through TRICARE in overseas locations. 

TRICARE Choices Handbook provides an overview of the TRICARE options for eligible beneficiaries.

The guide identifies available program options, gives details about each plan, and compares the different

benefits. The guide also provides information about how to enroll in TRICARE’s premier programs:

TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Prime Remote, and TRICARE Prime Remote for Active Duty Family

Members.

TRICARE Dental Program Benefit Booklet: For Active Duty Family Members and National Guard/

Reserve Members and Their Families, September 2008, provides an overview of TRICARE Dental

including sections on geographical areas of service, eligibility and enrollment, information for National

Guard and Reserve service members, traveling and moving with the plan, costs and fees, choosing a

dentist, filing claims, benefits and exclusions, orthodontic services, procedures for appeals and grievances,

and a directory of TRICARE Dental programs.

TRICARE Pharmacy Program Handbook, August 2009, provides information about pharmacy options,

cost-shares, and contact information for assistance with the program.

Deployment Phase Publications

Coping with Separation Publications

Government and military publications

The Department of Defense Guide for Helping Children and Youth Cope with Separation was created

for parents, relatives, teachers, service members, and community members to help children and youth

cope with separation from a parent due to military deployment.

Coping with a Deployment Extension, developed by Military OneSource, explains how family members

may be feeling, how to cope as a family, how to handle practical matters, and how family members can

support their service members.

Coping with the Deployment of a Spouse or Partner, developed by Military OneSource, describes how

to handle the deployment of a partner and where to go to get help.
- 342 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Finding Strength in Family and Community, developed by Military OneSource, provides information

on coping with the challenges of a deployment by finding strength in family and community.

Finding Support When Your Family Member in the Guard or Reserve Is Called to Active Duty,

developed by Military OneSource, provides information for families of National Guard and Reserve

service members to help find support during an activation or mobilization.

Helping Your Preschooler Deal with Your Deployment, developed by Military OneSource, provides

information on what preschoolers may be feeling at each stage of the deployment cycle and how parents

can offer support.

Helping Your School-Age Child Deal with Your Deployment, developed by Military OneSource,

provides information on what school-age children may be feeling at each stage of the deployment cycle

and how parents can offer support.

Managing the Emotional Cycle of Deployment When Your Spouse Is Deployed, developed by Military

OneSource, provides information on ways to cope before, during, and after the deployment.

Our Sons, Our Daughters: A National Guard Parent’s Guidebook to Deployment features information

about the history of the Guard, family readiness groups, the Employer Support of the Guard and

Reserve (ESGR), raising grandchildren, emergency notification, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Quick Tips for Keeping a Strong Relationship During Deployment, developed by Military OneSource,

provides recommendations for nurturing relationships throughout a deployment.

Quick Tips for Strengthening Family During Deployment, developed by Military OneSource, provides

recommendations to help keep families connected during a deployment.

Single Parenting While Your Spouse Is Deployed, developed by Military OneSource, provides an

overview of how to adjust to life as a single parent while your spouse is deployed. The article contains

sections on preparing for what’s ahead, adjusting emotionally, helping children adjust, and tips for

making the adjustment easier.

Staying Close to Your Baby When You’re Deployed, developed by Military OneSource, provides

recommendations to help deployed service members who are new parents to stay in touch with their

babies while deployed.

Staying Involved in Your Child’s or Teenager’s Life When You’re Deployed, developed by Military

OneSource, provides recommendations for staying connected with children and teenagers during a

service member’s deployment. The article contains sections addressing what service members can do

before deployment, how to stay involved while deployed, how spouses can help, and additional resources.
- 343 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Teenagers and Deployment, developed by Military OneSource, provides recommendations to help

teenagers cope with a family member’s deployment. The article includes sections addressing emotions

and the stages of deployment, when a deployment is extended, seeking outside help, and other resources.

Turning to Your Chaplain, developed by Military OneSource, provides an overview of the chaplain’s

role and responsibilities, including sections explaining the mission of military chaplains, chaplaincy

qualifications, the chaplain’s duties, and how to contact a chaplain.

When Your Son or Daughter is Deployed, developed by Military OneSource, provides parents of

deployed service members with tips on preparing for deployment, managing emotions, remaining in

contact with the service member, and how to prepare for the return of their child.

When Your Service Member Goes on a Repeat Deployment, developed by Military OneSource,

provides recommendations for helping service members’ families stay strong through repeated

deployments.

From Colorado State University, “Babies, Toddlers, and Coping with Military Deployments: Ensuring

emotional security and remaining emotionally available” highlights issues for the age group zero to three

concerning deployments.

It also addresses diverse family structures, including intact, divorced, and repartnered stepfamilies.

Helping Children Cope during Deployment is a fact sheet published by the Uniformed Services

University of the Health Sciences. The fact sheet includes information and recommendations for

commonly asked questions from parents about deployment, general tips for communicating with

children of all ages, and information specific to communicating with children about deployment.

Welcome to the Army Family: A First Guide for Army Spouses and Family Members introduces new

Army spouses and family members to military family life. It contains information on a number of topics

ranging from military benefits to recreation. It also includes a glossary of Army terms and abbreviations

as well as a list of useful websites.

Soldier and Family Problem Solving Guide, provided as part of the Army’s Operation READY, provides

answers to many common problems families face prior to deployment through a flow chart method.

United States Army Europe (USAREUR) Deployment and Reunion Guide for Children Ages Three

to Six provides an overview of the deployment process and recommendations for explaining deployment

to children between the ages of three and six. This document must be ordered through the unit

publications officer. The link provides the necessary publication details.

USAREUR Deployment and Reunion Guide for Children Ages Seven to Twelve provides an overview

of the deployment process and provides recommendations for explaining deployment to children
- 344 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

between the ages of seven and twelve. This document must be ordered through the unit publications

officer. The link provides the necessary publication details.

Emergencies during a Deployment Publications

Government and military publications

American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services (AFES), developed by Military OneSource,

provides an overview of the AFES, eligibility requirements, a description of the available services, and

information on accessing assistance from the American Red Cross.

American Red Cross Services for Military Families, developed by Military OneSource, provides an

overview of programs and services available to service members and their families, lists eligibility

requirements, information on accessing assistance, volunteer opportunities, and health and safety

training.

Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) Assistance Guide, Commanders, First Sergeants, and Supervisors, April

2009, provides Air Force leaders with an overview of the AFAS organization to better prepare them

to identify when AFAS can help to assure the financial and emotional well-being of their Airmen and

family members.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) Operating Manual, March 2004, consolidates and presents

CGMA operating guidelines, policies, and procedures. 

Community–based publications

American Red Cross Guide to Services provides an overview of the assistance provided by the American

Red Cross, including service to military members and their families.

Leave during a Deployment Publications

Government and military publications

United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) Rest & Recuperation (R&R) Leave Program,

March 2007, provides an overview of the USCENTCOM R&R program and information on the

mission of the program, personnel strength, and redeployment activities.
- 345 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Deployment and the Media Publications

Government and military publications

Dealing with the Media: A Guide for Family Members is published by the Nebraska National Guard

and provides recommendations for family members of deployed service members to help make

interviews with the media a success.

Communicating during a Deployment Publications

Government and military publications

Quick Tips for Communicating During Deployment, developed by Military OneSource, provides

recommendations for family members to consider when communicating with their deployed service

member.

Staying in Touch When Your Service Member Is Deployed, developed by Military OneSource,

provides information on various ways to communicate when a family member has been deployed. The

article covers communicating in general, information for when family members are sending letters and

packages, information for when family members are using email and the Internet, information to help

children communicate, and ways to keep in touch without an email or post address.

What to Send Someone Who is Deployed, developed by Military OneSource, provides information on

what to send to deployed service members (addressing food and drink considerations, personal care and

clothing items, and entertainment and communication items), packing tips, reminders of home, and a

listing of what not to send.

Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service (USPS), International Mail Manual (IMM®),

Issue 36, May 2009, provides the official prices and standards for all international mailing services

through the USPS. Many mailers find it helpful to reference these standards as they prepare and deposit

their mail. Included in the IMM are the prohibitions, restrictions, observations, and a description of the

Customs forms required to send mail into various countries around the world.

US Army Rear Detachment Commander’s Handbook is part of the Operation Ready training program

and describes how leadership and FRGs individually and in partnership support Soldiers and family

members through the ARFORGEN cycle process.

The Navy Family Ombudsman Program Manual provides an introduction to the Navy Ombudsman

Program as well as the command and family services that Ombudsmen provide.
- 346 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Commandant Instruction 1750.4D, Ombudsman Program, March 10, 2006, provides policy and

program guidance applicable to all Coast Guard units for the Ombudsman Program.

Community–based publications

American Red Cross Guide to Services provides an overview of the assistance provided by the American

Red Cross, including service to military members and their families.

Post Deployment Phase Publications

Return and Reunion Publications

Government and military publications

Preparing yourself for the Deployed Parent’s Return is a tip sheet published by the Military Family

Resource Center that provides recommendations for the parent who stayed at home to help prepare

them and their children for the deployed parent’s return.

Quick Tips for Service Members Coming Home is a tip sheet provided by Military OneSource that lists

recommendations for service members who are returning home following a deployment to help ease the

transition back into their normal life.

Quick Tips for Single Service Members Returning Home is a tip sheet provided by Military OneSource

that lists recommendations for single service members who are returning home following a deployment

to help ease the transition back into their normal life.

Quick Tips for Spouses of Service Members Coming Home is a tip sheet provided by Military

OneSource that lists recommendations for spouses of returning service members to help ease the

transition back to normal life with their spouse at home.

Returning Home from Deployment as a New Father is an article published by Military OneSource

to help ease the transition when a service member returns home from deployment to a new baby. The

article includes sections covering what to expect, how service members may feel, ways to ease the

transition, and resources.

Talking about the Return of a Parent is an article published by the Military Family Resource Center that

provides recommendations to the spouse that stayed at home during the deployment to help them and

their children prepare for the return of the deployed parent.

Teenagers and Deployment is an article published by Military OneSource that provides

recommendations to help teenagers cope with a family member’s deployment. The article includes
- 347 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

sections detailing the emotions and the stages of deployment, when a deployment is extended, seeking

outside help, and includes recommendations for teenagers for the post deployment period.

Turning to Your Chaplain is an article published by Military OneSource that provides an overview of

the chaplain’s role and responsibilities, including sections detailing the mission of military chaplains,

chaplaincy qualifications, the chaplain’s duties, and how to contact the chaplain.

The Army’s Welcome to the Army Family: A First Guide for Army Spouses and Family Members

introduces new Army spouses and family members to military family life. It contains information on

aspects of Army life from military benefits to recreation. It also includes a glossary of Army terms and

abbreviations as well as a list of useful websites.

Marine Corps Return and Reunion Guides are published by Marine Corps Community Services

(MCCS) and are designed to help Marines smoothly transition back into their home, work, and

social life.

Community–based publications

Welcome Home: A Guide to a Healthy Family Reunion is a guide published by the American Red

Cross and the National Mental Health Association designed to help service members return to their

normal life again following a deployment. The guide includes sections covering the changes that a family

may face, coping with children, reestablishing intimacy with a significant other, challenges that single

service members may face, issues related to National Guard and Reserve service members returning to

work, and the homecoming letdown.

Post Deployment Affairs Publications

Revisitation of Administrative Affairs Publications

Government and military publications

Servicemembers’ and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Handbook provides information on the

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI), the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI),

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) and Family

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI). The handbook provides overviews of these insurance

policies; procedures for terminating, reducing, restoring, or requesting coverage; procedures for

designating beneficiaries; procedures for filing death claims; and the required forms for each plan.
- 348 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Revisitation of Legal Affairs Publications

Government and military publications

Taking Care of the Families of America’s Armed Forces is a comprehensive guide published by the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs) for National Guard and Reserve service

members and their families. In addition to other topics, the guide provides information on medical

benefits for family members, dental health benefits for family members, legal assistance, life insurance

options, military aid societies, the American Red Cross, veterans’ assistance benefits, education benefits,

small business assistance, Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)

features, family readiness programs, Military OneSource, and useful websites.

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Guide, published by the Judge Advocate General ( JAG), United States

Army, provides summaries of the law, guidance, and sample documents for common issues associated

with the law. Although the primary purpose of the guide is to assist Legal Assistance attorneys, it can

also provide military clients with a better understanding for their rights under the act.

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides a review of the financial and legal protections provided to service members under the SCRA.

The article includes sections on who is covered by the SCRA, key parts of the SCRA, waivers of rights

under the SCRA, and locating the SCRA.

Leaders Guide for Managing Marines in Distress is an interactive guide published by Marine Corps

Community Services (MCCS) that provides information for leaders on combat and operational stress,

financial problems, legal problems, grief and loss, suicidal behavior, and behavioral health problems.

Revisitation of Financial Affairs Publications

Government and military publications

Taking Care of the Families of America’s Armed Forces is a comprehensive guide published by the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs) for National Guard and Reserve service

members and their families. In addition to other topics, the guide provides information on medical

benefits for family members, dental health benefits for family members, legal assistance, life insurance

options, military aid societies, the American Red Cross, veterans’ assistance benefits, education benefits,

small business assistance, USERRA features, family readiness programs, Military OneSource, and

useful websites.

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Guide, published by the JAG, United States Army, provides summaries

of the law, guidance, and sample documents for common issues associated with the law. Although the

primary purpose of the guide is to assist Legal Assistance attorneys, it can also provide military clients

with a better understanding for their rights under the act.
- 349 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

American Red Cross Services for Military Families is an article by Military OneSource that describes

programs and services available to service members and their families, lists eligibility requirements,

information on accessing assistance, volunteer opportunities, and health and safety training.

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides a review of the financial and legal protections provided to service members under the SCRA.

The article includes sections on who is covered by the SCRA, key parts of the SCRA, waivers of rights

under the SCRA, and locating the SCRA.

How to Read an Active Duty Army Leave and Earnings Statement, provided by the Defense Finance

Accounting Service (DFAS), lists the various fields found on an active duty Army leave and earnings

statement (LES) and describes the meaning of each field.

Leaders Guide for Managing Marines in Distress is an interactive guide published by MCCS that

provides information for leaders on combat and operational stress, financial problems, legal problems,

grief and loss, suicidal behavior, and behavioral health problems.

How to Read an Active Duty Navy Leave and Earnings Statement, provided by DFAS, lists the various

fields found on an active duty Navy LES and describes the meaning of each field.

How to Read an Active Duty Air Force Leave and Earnings Statement, provided by DFAS, lists the

various fields found on an active duty Air Force LES and describes the meaning of each field.

Air Force Aid Society Assistance Guide, Commanders, First Sergeants, and Supervisors, April 2009,

provides Air Force leaders with an understanding of the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) organization to

educate them on identifying instances when the AFAS can help to assure the financial and emotional

well-being of their Airmen and family members.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Operating Manual, March 2004, consolidates and presents in an easily

referenced fashion Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) operating guidelines, policies, and procedures.

How to Read a Reserve and National Guard Leave and Earning Statement, provided by DFAS, lists

the various fields found on an Army or Air National Guard, Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, or Air Force

Reserve LES and describes the meaning of each field.

Community–based publications

American Red Cross Guide to Services provides an overview of the assistance provided by the American

Red Cross, including service to military members and their families.
- 350 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Revisitation of Employment Affairs Publications

Government and military publications

Taking Care of the Families of America’s Armed Forces is a comprehensive guide published by the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs) for National Guard and Reserve service

members and their families. In addition to other topics, the guide provides information on medical

benefits for family members, dental health benefits for family members, legal assistance, life insurance

options, military aid societies, the American Red Cross, veterans’ assistance benefits, education benefits,

small business assistance, USERRA features, family readiness programs, Military OneSource, and useful

websites.

A Non-Technical Resource Guide to the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights

Act (USERRA), March 2003, provided by the Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and

Training Service (VETS), presents an overview of USERRA and answers to frequently asked questions

in a clear and simple manner.

The Employment Law Guide, Uniformed Service Members, published by the DOL, provides plain

language explanations of labor-related regulations and answers to frequently asked questions for

employers and employees, including an entire chapter dedicated to USERRA.

Employer Resource Guide, April 2003, published by the National Committee for Employer Support

of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), assists civilian employers in understanding employment and

reemployment rights covered by USERRA. It provides tips for civilian employers, descriptions of ESGR

and the ESGR ombudsman services, information on USERRA, and points of contact within DOL

VETS.

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) is an article

published by Military OneSource that provides an overview of how the USERRA protects a service

member’s right to reemployment following a deployment. The article includes individual sections

regarding who is covered by the USERRA’s protections, what service members must do to be eligible for

the USERRA’s protections, what protections are provided by the USERRA, what protections are not

provided by the USERRA, and where to go if a service member feels that they are not being

treated fairly.
- 351 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Post Deployment Benefits Publications

Post Deployment Health Benefits Publications

Government and military publications

How the Post Deployment Health Reassessment (PDHRA) Program Safeguards Our Service Members

is an article published by Military OneSource that provides basic information about the PDHRA

program including the mission of the program, when the reassessment takes place, how to take the

reassessment, and additional resources.

TRICARE Transitional Health Care Benefits, December 2004, brochure provides an overview of

health care benefits available to service members as they transition from active duty. The brochure

provides eligibility information for the Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) and

the Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) and what coverage is provided under both

programs.

TRICARE Reserve Select Handbook, February 2010, provides an overview of TRICARE Reserve

Select including sections on getting care, covered services, claims, changes to TRICARE Reserve Select

coverage, and information and assistance.

TRICARE Choices Handbook provides an overview of the TRICARE options for eligible beneficiaries.

The guide identifies available program options, gives details about each plan, and compares the different

benefits. The guide also provides information about how to enroll in TRICARE’s premier programs:

TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Prime Remote, and TRICARE Prime Remote for Active Duty Family

Members.

TRICARE Dental Program Benefit Booklet: For Active Duty Family Members and National Guard/

Reserve Members and their Families, September 2008, provides an overview of TRICARE Dental

including sections on geographical areas of service, eligibility and enrollment, information for National

Guard and Reserve service members, traveling and moving with the plan, costs and fees, choosing a

dentist, filing claims, benefits and exclusions, orthodontic services, procedures for appeals and grievances,

and a directory of TRICARE Dental programs.

TRICARE Pharmacy Program Handbook, August 2009, provides information about pharmacy options,

cost-shares, and contact information for assistance with the program.
- 352 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents, 2011 Edition, provides an overview of the various

benefits that veterans and their family members may be eligible to receive from the Department of

Veterans Affairs (VA) including health care, benefits for service-connected disabilities, pensions,

education and training, home loan guaranty, life insurance, burial and memorial benefits, and National

Guard and Reserve benefits.

Overview of VA Benefits is an article published by Military OneSource that provides an overview of

the benefits available to service members, veterans, and their families through the VA. These benefits

include education benefits, medical care, life insurance, disability compensation, home-loan guaranties,

vocational rehabilitation, burial and memorial benefits, and survivor’s benefits.

Civilian Health and Medical Program of VA (CHAMPVA) Handbook provides information on the

CHAMPVA program including eligibility requirements, obtaining medical care, benefit information,

costs, other health insurance, instructions for filing a claim, appeal requests, and where to go for

assistance.

VA Benefits for Active-Duty Service Members is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides an overview of the VA services and benefits available for active-duty service members and their

families. The article includes discussion on education benefits, home-loan guaranties, life insurance,

benefits for service members with disabilities, and transition assistance benefits.

VA Benefits for OEF and OIF Transitioning Service Members is an article published by Military

OneSource that describes the VA benefits available for service members returning from Operation

Enduring Freedom (OEF) or Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). The article contains sections detailing

transition assistance benefits, medical services, other VA benefits and services, services for veterans with

disabilities, and other resources.

Post Deployment Education and Training Benefits Publications

Government and military publications

VA Pamphlet 22-90-2, The Montgomery GI Bill–Active Duty, March 2007, provides information on

eligibility requirements, entitlements, allowable training, procedures for receiving benefits, and where to

go for assistance related to the GI Bill program for active duty service members.

VA Pamphlet 22-90-3, The Montgomery GI Bill–Selected Reserve, January 2007, provides information

on eligibility requirements, entitlements, allowable training, procedures for receiving benefits, and where

to go for assistance related to the GI Bill program for the Selected Reserve.

VA Pamphlet 22-05-1, Reserve Educational Assistance Program, December 2005, provides an overview

of the program, eligibility requirements, length of time the benefit will be available, allowable types of

training, and information on how to apply for the benefit.
- 353 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

VA Pamphlet 22-79-1, Summary of Educational Benefits under the Post-Vietnam Era Veterans

Educational Assistance Program and the Educational Assistance Pilot Program, December 2001,

provides information on eligibility requirements, allowable training, receiving payments, and where to go

for help related to the Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP).

VA Pamphlet 22-73-3, Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA), January 2005, provides

an overview of the benefit and information on eligibility requirements, allowable training, receiving

payments, and where to go for additional assistance related to the DEA.

Taking Care of the Families of America’s Armed Forces is a comprehensive guide published by the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs) for National Guard and Reserve service

members and their families. In addition to other topics, the guide provides information on medical

benefits for family members, dental health benefits for family members, legal assistance, life insurance

options, military aid societies, the American Red Cross, veterans’ assistance benefits, education benefits,

small business assistance, USERRA features, family readiness programs, Military OneSource, and

useful websites.

Learning Never Stops: A Guide to Continuing Your Education provides practical information about

continuing education options, from technical training to graduate school, with a focus on how to manage

lifelong learning while working and dealing with family responsibilities. The booklet describes distance

learning opportunities, explains how life and work experience can be applied toward some degree

programs, and offers information about funding ongoing education.

Overview of VA Benefits is an article published by Military OneSource that provides an overview

of the benefits available to service members, veterans, and their families through the Department of

Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits include education benefits, medical care, life insurance, disability

compensation, home-loan guaranties, vocational rehabilitation, burial and memorial benefits, and

survivor’s benefits.

VA Benefits for Active-Duty Service Members is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides an overview of the VA services and benefits available for active-duty service members and their

families. The article includes discussion on education benefits, home-loan guaranties, life insurance,

benefits for service members with disabilities, and transition assistance benefits.

VA Benefits for OEF and OIF Transitioning Service Members is an article published by Military

OneSource that describes the VA benefits available for service members returning from OEF or OIF.

The article contains sections detailing transition assistance benefits, medical services, other VA benefits

and services, services for veterans with disabilities, and other resources.

VA Benefits for National Guard and Reserve Members is an article published by Military OneSource

that provides an overview of the VA services and benefits available for National Guard and Reserve
- 354 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

service members and their families. The article includes discussion on education benefits, home-loan

guaranties, life insurance, and other VA benefits.

Wounded Warrior Benefits Publications

Government and military publications

Traumatic Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (TSGLI) is an article published by Military

OneSource that provides an overview of the TSGLI program. The article includes sections on the

amount of coverage, what losses are covered, how to submit a claim for TSGLI, where to get more

information, and Service-specific resources.

Resources for Wounded, Ill, and Injured Service Members Overview provides an overview of

government and nongovernment programs to help wounded, ill, and injured service members and their

families.

Understanding the Military Medical Evaluation Process is an article published by Military OneSource

that provides an understanding of the medical evaluation process including information regarding the

medical board, the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB), Service-specific support, and other resources.

Overview of VA Benefits is an article published by Military OneSource that provides an overview of

the benefits available to service members, veterans, and their families through the VA. These benefits

include education benefits, medical care, life insurance, disability compensation, home-loan guaranties,

vocational rehabilitation, burial and memorial benefits, and survivor’s benefits.

VA Benefits for Active-Duty Service Members is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides an overview of the VA services and benefits available for active-duty service members and their

families. The article includes discussion on education benefits, home-loan guaranties, life insurance,

benefits for service members with disabilities, and transition assistance benefits.

VA Benefits for National Guard and Reserve Members is an article published by Military OneSource

that provides an overview of the VA services and benefits available for National Guard and Reserve

service members and their families. The article includes discussion on education benefits, home-loan

guaranties, life insurance, and other VA benefits.

VA Benefits for OEF and OIF Transitioning Service Members is an article published by Military

OneSource that describes the VA benefits available for service members returning from OEF or OIF.

The article contains sections detailing transition assistance benefits, medical services, other VA benefits

and services, services for veterans with disabilities, and other resources.

VA Benefits for Disabled Veterans and Service Members is an article published by Military OneSource

that provides a description of VA benefits and services for disabled veterans and service members
- 355 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

including medical care, disability compensation, transition and employment services, home and car

adaptation, life insurance, other VA benefits, and other resources.

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides information on TBI including symptoms, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation, what family

members can do to help, and additional resources.

When Your Spouse Has a Traumatic Brain Injury is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides information for spouses caring for service members with serious brain injuries.

Resource Guide for Service Members with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Their Families is a list

of programs, websites, and organizations provided by Military OneSource to help service members and

families affected by TBI.

Adapting a Home to Make It Accessible is an article published by Military OneSource that provides

information on support available to help injured service members make home modifications.

What Family Members Can Do When a Service Member Is Severely Injured is an article published

by Military OneSource that provides information on how family members can be part of the care

team, how family members should take care of themselves, and additional resources available to

family members.

When You Become Your Spouse’s Caregiver is an article published by Military OneSource that provides

ways to cope and find support when a spouse becomes the caregiver for a service member. The article

includes sections describing how spouses may be feeling, when to seek help, learning about the service

member’s condition and available resources, having the spouse take care of themselves, and other

resources.

Survivor Benefits Publications

Government and military publications

Taking Care of the Families of America’s Armed Forces is a comprehensive guide published by the

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs) for National Guard and Reserve service

members and their families. In addition to other topics, the guide provides information on medical

benefits for family members, dental health benefits for family members, legal assistance, life insurance

options, military aid societies, the American Red Cross, veterans’ assistance benefits, education benefits,

small business assistance, Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)

features, family readiness programs, Military OneSource, and useful websites.
- 356 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

VA-NCA-IS-1, Interments in VA National Cemeteries provides an overview of burial in national and

state VA cemeteries including information on the burials, eligibility requirements, ineligibility, and lists

of national cemeteries.

A Survivor’s Guide to Benefits: Taking Care of Our Own, October 7, 2009, published by the

Department of Defense (DoD), provides information on casualty assistance officers, funeral and

memorial services, financial matters, and additional resources for family members of deceased service

members.

Servicemembers’ and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Handbook provides information on the SGLI, the

VGLI, TSGLI and FSGLI. The handbook provides overviews of these insurance policies; procedures

for terminating, reducing, restoring, or requesting coverage; procedures for designating beneficiaries;

procedures for filing death claims; and the required forms for each plan.

VA Pamphlet 22-73-3, Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA), January 2005, provides

an overview of the benefit and information on eligibility requirements, allowable training, receiving

payments, other important information, and where to go for additional assistance.

Social Security Survivors Benefits, published by the SSA, provides an overview of social security survivor

benefits.

Overview of VA Benefits is an article published by Military OneSource that provides an overview of

the benefits available to service members, veterans, and their families through the VA. These benefits

include education benefits, medical care, life insurance, disability compensation, home-loan guaranties,

vocational rehabilitation, burial and memorial benefits, and survivor’s benefits.

VA Benefits for Active-Duty Service Members is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides an overview of the VA services and benefits available for active-duty service members and their

families. The article includes discussion on education benefits, home-loan guaranties, life insurance,

benefits for service members with disabilities, and transition assistance benefits.

VA Benefits for National Guard and Reserve Members is an article published by Military OneSource

that provides an overview of the VA services and benefits available for National Guard and Reserve

service members and their families. The article includes discussion on education benefits, home-loan

guaranties, life insurance, and other VA benefits.

Books and Resources for Adults Helping Children and Teenagers Cope with Death and Dying is a

list of books and resources compiled by Military OneSource for adults who are helping children and

teenagers cope with death and dying.
- 357 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Resources for Casualty Survivors is a list of books, programs, and web sites provided by Military

OneSource for casualty survivors. These resources include books, general support, benefits, military

relief organizations, information for children and teenagers, information for suicide survivors, and

casualty assistance by branch of Service.

Important Telephone Numbers for Casualty Survivors is a list of important telephone numbers for

casualty survivors provided by Military OneSource.

Planning a Memorial Service is an article provided by Military OneSource that provides information

on planning a memorial service for someone who has died. The article contains sections describing

common reasons for having a memorial service, questions to ask when planning a service, what the

service can include, and other tips on arranging a service.

Coping with the Death of a Spouse is an article provided by Military OneSource that provides

information on dealing with grief and changes after the loss of a spouse. The article includes

information on what to expect, changes, tips on coping, what to do if you have young children, and

looking forward.

Coping with the Loss of a Son or Daughter in Military Service is an article provided by Military

OneSource that provides information on the indescribable sense of pain and loss, tasks of grief, coping

with the loss, coping with holidays and anniversaries, and finding support.

Coping with the Loss of a Spouse in Military Service is an article provided by Military OneSource

that provides information on the indescribable sense of pain and loss, tasks of grief, coping with your

loss, helping younger children, helping teenagers, coping with holidays and anniversaries, and finding

support.

Grieving the Death of a Service Member is an article provided by Military OneSource that provides

information on the grieving process including detail on common emotions, some ways to cope, and

finding support.

Helping a Child Cope with Loss and Grief is an article provided by Military OneSource that offers

information on ways to provide support and comfort for children when a special person in their life dies.

Helping a Child Deal with Death is an article provided by Military OneSource that provides

information on helping a child deal with death.

Leaders Guide for Managing Marines in Distress is an interactive guide published by MCCS that

provides information for leaders on combat and operational stress, financial problems, legal problems,

grief and loss, suicidal behavior, and behavioral health problems.
- 358 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Reintegration Phase Publications

Reintegrating to Normal Life Publications

Government and military publications

Adjusting to Civilian Life After Combat Duty with the Guard or Reserve is an article published by

Military OneSource that provides an overview on returning to civilian life after combat duty with the

National Guard or Reserve. The article include sections addressing allowing sufficient time to readjust,

reestablishing relationships with family and friends, reconnecting on the job, understanding combat

stress reactions, finding a place in your community, and counseling and support resources.

Becoming a Couple Again Reintegration Fact Sheet for Military Couples is an article published by

Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences that provides recommendations for couples

reuniting after a deployment.

Becoming a New Father While You’re Deployed is a tip sheet published by Military OneSource that

provides recommendations for service members who become fathers while they are deployed. 

Driving Safely at Home after Combat Driving is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides information and recommendations for returning service members who drove during combat

missions on their deployment. The article contains separate sections detailing offensive versus defensive

driving, other issues that raise driving risk, and additional resources.

Federal Civil Service Employment for Transitioning Service Members is an article published by

Military OneSource that provides recommendations for finding a civilian job with the federal

government, including sections regarding the benefits of a federal job, understanding federal job

preferences, searching for federal jobs, creating a federal resume, and other resources.

Getting to Know Your Children Again is a tip sheet published by the Military Family Resource Center

to help returning service members become reacquainted with their children.

Helping National Guard and Reserve Reenter the Workplace is an article published by the Uniformed

Services University of the Health Sciences that provides recommendations for National Guard and

Reserve service members as well as their civilian managers to facilitate workplace reintegration.

Powerful Movies, Powerful Memories: Viewing Advice for Family and Friends of Military Members is

an article published by Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress at the Uniformed Services University

that provides recommendations for viewing graphic war-related programs for family and friends of

service members who have experienced or are experiencing combat. 
- 359 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Powerful Movies, Powerful Memories: Viewing Tips for Military Men and Women is an article

published by Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress at the Uniformed Services University that

provides recommendations for viewing graphic war-related programs for service members who have

experienced combat.

Returning to Family Life after Deployment is an article published by Military OneSource that provides

recommendations to limit the stresses of return and reunion after deployment. 

Returning to Single Life After Deployment is an article published by Military OneSource that provides

information on what to expect, settling back in, reconnecting with friends and family, finding support,

and additional resources.

When a Co-Worker Returns to Work from Military Duty is an article published by Military OneSource

written directly to coworkers of returning National Guard and Reserve service members that provides

recommendations for how to support a coworker returning from active military duty. The article includes

sections helping coworkers to understand how the returning employee feels, what to say, ways to offer

support, and additional resources.

Leaders Guide for Managing Marines in Distress is an interactive guide published by Marine Corps

Community Services (MCCS) that provides information for leaders on combat and operational stress,

financial problems, legal problems, grief and loss, suicidal behavior, and behavioral health problems.

Community–based publications

Welcome Home: A Guide to a Healthy Family Reunion is a guide published by the American Red

Cross and the National Mental Health Association designed to help service members return to their

normal life again following a deployment. The guide includes sections covering the changes that a family

may face, coping with children, reestablishing intimacy with a significant other, challenges that single

service members may face, issues related to National Guard and Reserve service members returning to

work, and the homecoming letdown.

Returning to Work is a tip sheet published by Mental Health America’s Operation Healthy Reunions

that provides recommendations to returning National Guard and Reserve service members and their

employers for facilitating workplace reentry following a deployment.

Pre-Separation Guide, February 2007, is a guide available through the TurboTAP website that provides

information of value to active duty service members who are transitioning into civilian employment

or retirement. The guide provides information about the effects of a career change, employment and

relocation assistance, entrepreneurship, reserve affiliation, health care, education, training, and other

important benefits earned through military service, including special benefits for disabled

service members.
- 360 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Transition Guide for Demobilizing Members of the Guard and Reserves, May 2007, provides transition

assistance information especially for members of the National Guard and Reserve. This guide is similar

to the Pre-Separation Guide for active duty service members and includes additional information

including special Transitional Health Care coverage information, Employer Support of the Guard and

Reserve (ESGR), reemployment rights information, and special education and training benefits.

Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention Publications

Government and military publications

Information and Support After a Suicide Attempt: A Department of Veterans Affairs Resource Guide

for Family Members of Veterans Who are Coping with Suicidality provides veterans and their families

with resources that can serve as sources of information and support. The guide contains formation on

self-care, care for others (particularly children), and care for the suicide attempt survivor.

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) ACE Card and Brochure helps veterans and their family members

and friends learn that they can take the necessary steps to get help. The acronym ACE (Ask, Care,

Escort) summarizes the steps needed to take an active and valuable role in suicide prevention. The

VA ACE Card is a pocket guide, supported by the VA ACE Brochure that provides more in depth

information.

The Suicide Risk Assessment Guide, published by the VA’s Office of Mental Health Services, contains

information on warning signs, factors that may increase risk, factors that may decrease risk, and tips on

how to respond.

A TRICARE Guide Understanding Behavioral Health, November 2009, provides information on

TRICARE’s behavioral health program. Included in the guide are sections providing an overview of

behavioral health, covered services, limitations, exclusions, who to see for care, getting care, and privacy

rights.

After an Attempt: A Guide for Taking Care of Yourself After Your Treatment in the Emergency

Department is a guide published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

(SAMHSA) to help survivors of a suicide attempt as they begin to work through the challenges that

led them to attempt to take their life. It offers information about moving ahead after treatment in the

emergency department and provides resources for more information about suicide and mental illnesses.

After an Attempt: A Guide for Taking Care of Your Family Member After Treatment in the Emergency

Department is a guide published by the SAMHSA to give family members some important points on

how to take care of themselves and their family member following a suicide attempt, and it provides

resources to help move forward.
- 361 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Brochure provides information on suicide warning signs and

how to get help through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Counseling Services Available through Military OneSource is an article published by Military

OneSource that provides information on how military service members and their families can take

advantage of the counseling services offered by Military OneSource.

Getting the Help You Need to Recover Your Emotional Health is an article published by Military

OneSource that provides information on how to get help when a service member is dealing with painful

feelings or stress reactions.

Mental Health Crisis Numbers is a list provided by Military OneSource of national-, state-, and locallevel behavioral health crisis hotlines.

Adjusting to Civilian Life after Combat Duty with the Guard or Reserve is an article published by

Military OneSource that provides an overview returning to civilian life after combat duty with the

National Guard or Reserve. The article include sections addressing allowing sufficient time to readjust,

reestablishing relationships with family and friends, reconnecting on the job, understanding combat

stress reactions, finding a place in your community, and counseling and support resources.

Getting Back to Work after a Traumatic Event is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides information on handling grief, sadness, and fear at work after a traumatic event.

Combat Stress Resources for Military Families is a list of programs, websites, books, and organizations

provided by Military OneSource to help military families affected by combat stress or posttraumatic

stress disorder (PTSD).

Dealing with Combat and Operational Stress is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides information on how early identification and treatment of combat and operational stress greatly

improves chances for full recovery. The article includes sections detailing the definition of combat

and operational stress, signs of combat and operational stress, risk factors for stress injuries, delayed

stress reactions, recommendations on how to help oneself and the surrounding people, when to seek

professional help, resources for online information on stress injury, and resources for evaluation, referral,

and treatment.

Coping with Grief and Loss after a Traumatic Event is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides information on coping with loss in the days after a traumatic event, in the weeks and months

after a traumatic event, and when to seek help.

Posttraumatic Stress in Children and Teenagers is an article published by Military OneSource that is

designed to help children and teenagers who are experiencing intense stress after a traumatic event. The
- 362 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

article contains sections describing who is at risk for posttraumatic stress, the signs of posttraumatic

stress, the different types of treatment, and finding help and resources.

Taking Care of Yourself after a Traumatic Event is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides an understanding of the emotional reactions to traumatic events and tragedies, with suggestions

about coping and getting help.

Depression is an article published by Military OneSource that provides information on the symptoms

of depression and how to treat depression. The article provides information on the types of depression,

symptoms of depression, causes of depression, treatment options, antidepressant medications,

psychotherapy, how to help oneself, and where to get help.

Depression in Children and Teenagers is an article published by Military OneSource that provides

information on the signs of depression, what service members and their spouses can do to help, what to

do if a child or teenager talks about dying, what causes depression, various kinds of treatment, questions

to ask a therapist, and how to help children and teenagers.

Quick Facts about Depression is a tip sheet published by Military OneSource that provides information

on recognizing depression, the causes of depression, and treating depression.

Quick Tips for Recognizing Depression in Children and Adolescents is a tip sheet published by Military

OneSource that provides information on recognizing depression.

Resources for Casualty Survivors is a list of books, programs, and web sites provided by Military

OneSource for casualty survivors. These resources include books, general support, benefits, military relief

organizations, information for children and teenagers, information for suicide survivors, and casualty

assistance by branch of Service.

When a Service Member May Be at Risk of Suicide is an article published by Military OneSource that

provides information on what to do when someone you care about may be at risk for suicide. The article

contains information on understanding suicide risk factors, acting on warning signs, giving support,

keeping the service member safe, crisis support resources, and other resources.

When an Employee May Be at Risk of Committing Suicide is an article published by Military

OneSource that provides information on the vital steps to take when an employee may be at risk of

committing suicide.

Leaders Guide for Managing Marines in Distress is an interactive guide published by MCCS that

provides information for leaders on combat and operational stress, financial problems, legal problems,

grief and loss, suicidal behavior, and behavioral health problems.
- 363 -

Appendix C – Related Publications

Navy Suicide Prevention Tri-fold provides warning signs and ways to help a service member who is at

risk for suicide.

Air Force Leaders Guide for Managing Personnel in Distress is an interactive guide designed to help

unit leaders (commanders, first sergeants, and supervisors) recognize distress related behaviors, provide

support to individuals within the unit, and collaborate with helping agencies to meet the needs of

individuals in distress. The guide aims to assist leaders in the decision-making process by describing a

broad range of supportive interventions, resources, and strategies for supporting individuals in distress

and provides guidance on effective communications with members of the Air Force helping agencies.

Air Force Guide for Managing Suicidal Behavior: Strategies, Resources and Tools is a publication

of the Air Force Medical Operations Agency (AFMOA) that strives to help to Air Force behavioral

health staff navigate one of the most difficult and complex aspects of clinical practice: suicidal behavior.

This guide pulls together state-of-the-art knowledge and best practices for the clinical management of

suicidal behavior to make providing this care easier for behavioral health providers, nurses, technicians

and clinic staff.

Community-based publications

Welcome Home: A Guide to a Healthy Family Reunion is a guide published by the American Red

Cross and the National Mental Health Association designed to help service members return to their

normal life again following a deployment. The guide includes sections covering the changes that a family

may face, coping with children, reestablishing intimacy with a significant other, challenges that single

service members may face, issues related to National Guard and Reserve service members returning to

work, and the homecoming letdown.