As a parent, sibling, grandparent, fiancé, extended family member or friend of a service member, you feel pride for your loved one’s call to serve. You may also have questions about your service member’s military experience. We have answers for you.
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.
The deployment cycle is the period of time from the notification of a deployment, through pre-deployment training, through the deployment, and immediately after deployment. Every deployment cycle is different, but here are some general things to know.
A military promotion is a significant achievement in a service member’s career It’s a testament to their commitment, mastery of duties and skill, and to the service member’s leadership capabilities. Some promotions are more meaningful than others, especially as service members move up in rank.
The anticipation of a homecoming may come with many different feelings. It is understandable that you may be feeling anxious, excited, even worried all at once. As a family member or friend, you can be a key supporter for your service member as they return home from deployment – no matter if you live nearby or far away.
As someone who cares about a service member, you may have questions about how the military ensures equal opportunity and acceptance of individual differences among all its members. The DOD has taken steps to root out bias, ensure the military reflects the nation’s diversity and promote an environment in which every member is treated with dignity and respect.
Military and family life counselors are among the benefits available to help service members overcome challenges and thrive in their military lives.
Holidays can feel very different when your service member is away. There are traditions that you’d like to share with them or wish they could participate in. But there are things you can do to help yourself – and your service member – make the holidays special, whether they are stationed far from home or deployed. Sharing old traditions and creating new ones can keep the holidays fun and meaningful, and help you stay connected.
Having a son or daughter in the military can bring about a host of emotions, from pride in their service to concern for their safety. It’s natural to want to connect with other parents like you.
Everyone plays a role in ensuring gun safety at home. Knowing and understanding the safety measures and precautions needed to keep a household safe can save lives.
The DOD continues to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other government agencies to respond to the outbreak and prevent its spread. The DOD offers free resources through Military OneSource. Each program helps with different military-life challenges or seasons.
It’s not unusual to have emotional ups and downs during a loved one’s deployment. Tend to your well-being and plan for your service member’s return with these suggestions
Whether your service member is near or far, you can mark the day together in ways that are particularly meaningful to you.
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