Being called to duty can be a wrenching experience -- for the spouse and family as well as for the servicemember.
Having a loved one mobilized or deployed means shifting roles and changing responsibilities while maintaining a stable family life. Be sure to read these tips, and maintain your family's emotional and financial well-being.
The Emotional Phases of Deployment - What you're going through, thousands of others have
gone through. Learn about how to make the best of the situation.
Family Safety - Your spouse or loved one may be heading into danger, but don't neglect your own safety at home.
Keeping Up with the News - What's the best way to keep track of what your servicemember is doing when he or she is away?
Recreational Activities - Don't underestimate the value of activity during times of stress. Military bases have facilities you can use.
Other Activities -
Don't lose your drive to accomplish things while your spouse or loved one is away.
Your Children and Separation - Deployment can be extra hard on your children. Read some tips on how you can all handle the situation.
How to Cope with Sudden Deployments
- Feel overwhelmed, emotionally and physically, by your loved one's absence? Take a deep breath and use some of these tips.
The Worst-Case Scenario - We all hope that our loved ones can return safely, but if they do not, know that the U.S. military offers support services and benefits.
Supporting the Troops - Whether it's for the special person in your life or servicemembers everywhere, take advantage of care package and message services.
Checklists and Resources
Checklists and Kits
Legal Checklist - Everything from health coverage to power of attorney.
Emergency Checklist - Emergencies can happen at home as well as abroad. Make sure your family is prepared.
Family Checklist - Keep track of the major duties the family should take care during the servicemember's absence.
Legal Readiness - JAGCnet presents guides, checklists, and other resources on being legally and financially prepared for deployment.
Getting
a Passport - With heightened terrorist threats,
sometimes it's safer to travel as a U.S. citizen.
Find out how you can get a passport quickly.
