KEEPING IN TOUCH
HOW WILL I COMMUNICATE WITH MY SON OR DAUGHTER?
It may take time for an individual and his or her family to adjust to Army life. To make the transition a smooth one, Soldiers have several ways to communicate with and see their families.
TELEPHONE
Every Soldier has access to telephones on their Army Post and can use cellphones to make personal calls during free time, except during Basic Combat Training.
“The Army goes out of their way to make telephone access possible from their end to us, and email whenever possible, and they do that as quickly as possible. So communication has always been readily available.”
— Cathy, Staff Sergeant John Martin’s Mom
INTERNET
Most Army Posts offer free access to computers and the Internet to check email and do research online. Soldiers living on Post also have the same opportunity as you to sign up to receive Internet service.
Every Post has regular postal service with daily deliveries.
“The letters to Jodie were important, but sometimes the letters back were pretty darn important. Because they are so busy, when they can find the time to jot a note down, it’s really good.”
— Buddy, Specialist Jodie Wood’s Dad
PERSONAL VISITS
Soldiers get 30 paid days leave a year and discounted travel rates, as well as a Family Day after Basic Combat Training.
“I talk to Antoine about once a week on the telephone. We talk quite frequently, and we do a lot of emails with him and his wife also. So we stay in communication on a frequent basis and about once every six months, we’re able to visit in person.”
— Phyllis, Specialist Antoine Grimes’ Mom
Please note: During training — or while stationed overseas — there may be unavoidable limits to the amount of communication your son or daughter will be able to have with you.