National Guard Families and Friends

Being there for the ones you care about can make a difference in the life of a service member or a member of your family. Learn how to support soldiers, airmen and each other.

National Guard Families and Friends Serve, Too

If you are related to a service member or you are friends with a service member and their family, this page includes information that will help you give support and find support. Your role in the health and the well-being of your service member is a vital one, and resources are available to help you participate in their service to the nation.

Helping military spouses and partners

Whether it’s maintaining a household or providing emotional support, being a partner to a service member may present greater challenges, as well as greater opportunities to be close to one another. Learn about:

• What to expect when your partner is deployed
• How to cope throughout your partner’s service
• How to support your loved one

Learn more about loving someone in the military »

Helping military children

Military children face unique challenges from other children. They require special attention to help them adjust to the absence of a deployed family member, endure frequent relocations, or cope with other issues related to having a loved one in the National Guard. Learn about:

• Why supporting military kids matters
• Signs of distress in military children
• Tips for helping a military child

Learn how National Guard kids are heroes, too »

Helping military parents

Parents can experience a wide range of emotions regarding their son or daughter’s service in the National Guard, from pride in their accomplishments to fear for their safety. Learn about:

• When a son or daughter deploys
• Staying connected and finding support
• Welcoming your son or daughter home

Learn more about when your son or daughter deploys »