When Sailors deploy they may find themselves coping with feelings of disconnection and loss of power over their lives. This article discusses these issues and provides links to support and resources.
Family support groups benefit not only the shoreside spouse, but also make it easier for the Sailor to concentrate on his or her mission. Examples of family support group activities, levels of involvement, the role of the ombudsman and tips to make a stronger support group.
Maintaining your home and laundry and basic tips for minimum cleaning standards. Links to other helpful websites that provide additional house and laundry information such as TwinsList.org, FLYlady.net, Essortment.com, Do It Yourself.com, Hints and things.com, and Butlers Guild.com.
One of the most important things you can do for your loved ones is to prepare a will. A will ensures that your loved ones will be provided for in your absence.
Your spouse has temporary additional duty orders (TAD) to some exotic location. Before you pack your bags there are some things to consider when deciding to travel with your spouse on TAD orders.
The time has come for you to pack for your first deployment. Make sure you don't try to pack everything, including the kitchen sink. Learn about the best and most efficient ways to pack for a deployment, keeping in mind less is better.
The first 24 hours after your Sailor or Marine deploys can be the hardest. Learn how other spouses survived the first 24 hours of a deployment through their first-person accounts.
This article is about how to help your PCS move sponsor. It discusses the importance of communicating, and lists some services a sponsor provides, such as information about currency exchange, housing options, cost of living, and childcare. Links to the StayNavy's Sponsor Assignment Aid (SAA) program, Navy Surface Spouses, the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP), the Spouse Employment Assistance Program (SEAP), and RefDesk.com.
How do service members and thier families cope with a sudden deployment? Who should they talk with, what kind of paperwork is needed? What role does the ombudsman or Key Volunteer play? Do you need Navy Legal Assistance, Marine Joint Legal Assistance or the Marine Corps Staff Judge Advocate? How about the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), FFSC, MCCS, Military Wives, and Military Spouse Support Network? Some or all of these could play a role in deployment.
LIFELines is sponsored by the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs and funded by the Center for Personal and Professional Development.