ArmyNGfamily

NMFA Children and Deployment Article Series

2009-03-28T17:49:00.001-05:00

http://www.nmfa.org/site/PageServer?pagename=article_series

Children and Deployment

What Does My Daddy Do? Military Parents in the Work Place

By Holly Selders for LIFELines

From a kid's point of view, the job of a parent in the military may be a little fuzzy. Explaining to your children what you do, especially during deployments or underway periods, helps their understanding and shortens the distance between you.

Parents with potentially dangerous occupations have the burden of easing fears when describing to their kids what they do for a living. Despite the fact that the majority of the military is not imminently in harm's way, added sensitivity is the plan of the day. Varying age groups and individual circumstances dictate a variety of responses. The National Association of School Psychologists gives this advice to parents: Filter known facts one by one and do NOT prepare children (especially military children) for the worst. Basic information about your job or rate should be sufficient. Reading a bedtime story from your rate training manual takes it a little overboard.

According to Kids & Careers, children believe that mermaids are as real as car crashes and that dangers can be common. It is not until approximately age 10 or 11 that children begin to understand which events are real. Fear for their parents being in danger can be managed by explaining that Daddy or Mommy is highly trained and practices routinely for the emergency situations children might be seeing on television.

According to Liz Hengerer from the Norfolk Fleet and Family Support Center, children also hear from their friends what supposedly goes on during deployments and at work, and they can often be a source of misinformation. If your child comes home reporting, "The other kids say Dad's gonna get 13 tattoos, fall overboard, and get eaten by a shark," parents must correct the information. Explain that other kids don't know what is going to happen and Dad is not going to get eaten by a shark.

Keeping Babies In the Loop
Infants and toddlers have an undeveloped sense of time and limited visual memory. Showing pictures of Daddy, in uniform and in civvies, keeps Daddy's image at hand and refreshes young memories. Bring Daddy into conversations by saying, "Let's sing The Barney song. It's Daddy favorite!" or "Let's mail Daddy's care package." If, for example, Daddy's a pilot, say, "Look, a plane like Daddy flies." If Daddy's on a ship, show pictures or submerge toy submarines to imitate Daddy. One enterprising wife of a West Coast Sailor created a photo album organized by what her husband would be doing each hour of the day. For example, 11:00 showed Daddy eating lunch, 15:00 (that's 3 p.m. for civilians) showed Daddy sitting at his desk, etc.

Explaining Your Job to Young Children
If possible, bring school age children into the workspace. If you can't get permission, show your kids a similar place or a picture of yourself at work. Tell children simple stories about what happened at work or explain what you did that day, just like you expect them to tell you about their day. Long distance dads can send frequent e-mails, ask specific questions when calling by phone, or mail surprises via snail mail.

Talking With Teenagers
Honest, clear, and specific information works best with pre-adolescents and teenagers. This age group knows everything anyway and is highly capable of filtering information. They still need reassurance, a sense of safety, and a parent who's there when they're ready to talk. Frequent e-mails, video conferencing, and instant messaging can be your best connection, away or at home.

For more suggestions, try Fathering Teenagers which includes tips such as "Open Your Belly." (You'll have to read that one for yourself.) Teens will let you know how much they want to experience. Don't be surprised or offended to find a conscientious objector to your occupation in the household. That's part of what all teens go through in discovering their own identities.

Go Where Your Kids Are, Take Them Where You Are
Children of all ages can track a working military parents progress on globes or with pictures or calendars. Participate in Bring Your Parent to School Day, no matter how embarrassing your child claims this is. Participate in the widely popular Bring Your Daughter to Work Day. First-hand experience is a valuable tool for understanding a military parent's role in the everyday work place.

Maintaining personal contact during deployment

2009-03-28T17:46:00.001-05:00

http://www.ptsdsupport.net/contact_during_deploymnet.html

Staying in Touch When a Family Member Has Been Deployed

Content Provided by Military OneSource Bookmark This Page! OneSourse provides a great deal of information needed for family and spouses during deployment

Overview
Ideas and advice for staying in touch with a family member who has been deployed.

Communicating through the mail and the Internet

Ways children can communicate with a deployed family member

When a family member has been deployed, communication can become difficult. But the military has worked hard to set up communication channels such as e-mail and mail systems to make sure that service members and their families can stay in touch. The efforts you make to communicate with each other during a deployment can help both of you cope with the separation.

Communicating through the mail and the Internet
If you'll be communicating with your family member through the mail, be sure you have the correct address so that letters and packages will get there quickly. Learn about any guidelines for military mail, such as how and where to pick up mail, what you can and cannot send, and how long it may take for a letter or package to reach your family member. The same advice holds for e-mail, too: Be sure you have the exact address, and find out about any rules for sending messages or attachments.

Try to write to your family member as often as you can, but don't be disappointed or worried if you don't always get quick responses. There may be times when your family member is in places where mail cannot go or he or she may be too busy to respond right away.

Here are some things you should think about when you're writing to a family member:

Be honest. You don't have to hide things or pretend that you're feeling fine when you're not. Your family member may be able to tell that there's something you're not saying and worry.

Let your family member know how much you appreciate his or her response. Tell him how much it means for you and other members of your family when you get a letter or e-mail.

Answer any questions he or she asked in an earlier message. If you ignore questions, your family member may spend time wondering and worrying why you didn't respond.

Try to express yourself clearly. Remember that you won't be there in person to explain what you mean when your family member reads your letter, so try not to leave any doubt about exactly what you're saying.

Keep some addressed and stamped envelopes on hand, ready to mail. This may make it easier to write a quick note. You can also pass out addressed and stamped envelopes or postcards to friends and family members to encourage them to write.

Don't try to read between the lines of letters or notes that you receive. Try not to make assumptions or judgments based on just a single sentence or the overall tone of a letter. If you have a question or don't understand something, ask your questions in your next letter or phone call rather than wasting time wondering and worrying.

Consider numbering letters that you send and receive so that you and your family member can easily keep them in order.

If you send a package, try to remember that your family member may not have a lot of space. Send small, funny presents, like souvenirs or a favorite section of the Sunday paper, or personal items, such as soap or toothpaste. If you plan on sending food items, take care with packaging. Always check to make sure that any package you send fits with regulations.

Be creative . Letters and e-mails are wonderful, but there are lots of ways you can make them even better. You can send a message in the form of a tape recording or a video. If you have children, send artwork, school papers, or even a photocopy of their hand prints. You can send clippings from the local paper or tape recordings of a family gathering, a child reading, singing, or playing music, or even just the sounds of your home. You may come up with your own ideas that have special meaning for your family member.

Use the Internet for more than e-mail . If you can use the Internet to stay in touch, there are lots of things you can do beyond sending e-mail messages. You can set up a Web page with pictures and news -- or find a service that hosts Web pages -- or you can "talk" with your family member in chat rooms. You can also send digital pictures or use a scanner to send newspaper clippings, artwork, or a child's report card or school papers.

Send photos. Pictures of loved ones can be very comforting when a family is separated. Just as you like to look at photos of your family member who has been deployed, he or she will enjoy seeing photos of people at home. You don't have to send professional pictures or photographs of special events. Send photos of your pets, your neighbors, your child's sporting event, a recital, or another occasion. You can also send photos of your home and other places that are special to you and your family member. Some families document a normal day in photos and send them as a kind of "picture story."

Tips for communicating with e-mail
E-mail is convenient, fast, and inexpensive, which makes it a great way to communicate during a deployment. But because e-mail is instantaneous, it's also possible to click the "send" button and send something you wish you could recall. If dashing off an e-mail makes you feel better when you're upset or mad, go ahead -- just wait before you send it. Come back a few hours later or the next day and review what you wrote to see if you still want to send it.

Ways children can communicate with a deployed family member
It's important for children to feel like they are keeping in touch with a deployed parent or family member instead of hearing news or greetings secondhand. Encourage your child to send artwork or write letters, and make sure that the family member who has been deployed sends e-mail or letters addressed and mailed directly to the child. This may help a child understand that her family member is thinking about and missing her. Here are some other ways to help children keep a sense of connection with a deployed family member:

Let children find a way to communicate that works for them . Some children may like to use a tape recorder to exchange spoken messages, while others may like to write letters or send e-mail. Others, especially younger children, like to communicate with pictures. Help your child explore all of the different ways she can communicate. Encourage the deployed family member to follow the child's cues -- by responding with a recorded message, for example, or by drawing a picture of where he sleeps or a typical meal.

Give your child his own stack of pre-addressed and stamped envelopes and paper to make it easy to write on the spur of the moment.

Help children think of things that their family member may like to know about. Sometimes children have trouble starting a letter or knowing what to say. Help children understand that their deployed family member is interested in anything that's going on in their life.

Family - Keep Kids Connected During Deployments - Military Spouse

2009-03-28T17:44:00.001-05:00

http://www.milspouse.com/keeping-kids-connected.aspx

Keep Kids Connected During Deployments

Tips on how to stay connected

by MSM

Keep your child of any age in touch with other military children.
For stability, stay in touch with some military friends, even when you move.
Keep the lines of communication open with your deployed service member, if possible.
Write letters and take photos.
Make sure your child understands that just because a parent is deployed, that the parent is not out of their life.
Keep the deployed parent a presence as much as possible.
Be open and discuss your fears with your child, but reassure them that you are there for them.
Keep the lines of communication open, so that your child talks to you, not strangers about his or her worries during deployment.
Take advantage of every free service, camp, school, and program offered to military children.

It may be easy to focus on your own challenges and grievances during combat deployments, but most important, do not leave your child behind.

How to Spot Scams Targeting Military Family Members | eHow.com

2009-03-28T01:52:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Beware of the Red Cross scam that specifically targets military family members. In this scenario, a con artist posing as a Red Cross representative calls a military family member and reports that a loved one serving on duty in Iraq was injured and sent to a hospital in Germany.

Step2

Expect the con artist to claim that your loved one is unable to receive treatment until the required paperwork is complete. The claim that you only need to provide your loved one's social security number and date of birth to finish the paperwork and get the treatment under way is false.

Step3

Pay careful attention to how the con artist asks for information. Your loved one's name is unidentified by the scammer and other significant details may be incorrect. Refrain from confirming your loved one's deployment.

Step4

Know military protocol. If your loved one deploys and suffers a serious injury, Red Cross representatives typically use the military chain of command instead of communicating with you directly.

Step5

Refuse to provide personal information over the telephone unless you know or you can verify the identity of the person. The scammer is trying to trick you into providing sensitive information that can make it possible for the individual to steal your loved one's identity.

Step6

Ask your loved one to place an "Active Duty Alert" on credit reports to guard against identity theft scams during a deployment.

How to Be a Military Girlfriend | eHow.com

2009-03-28T01:13:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Decide if military life is for you. Before you run headlong into love, determine if you are up to the challenge. Being a military girlfriend means dealing with deployments, his buddies, military formalities, military acronyms and sometimes coming second to the military. If you are not ready for that and more, move on to another man.

Step2

Learn to be independent. Be aware that your boyfriend can be swept away by his service at any time. Although you can depend on him, you have to depend on yourself more. Learn to do things on your own. Be brave and try new things.

Step3

Build a trusting and communicative relationship. Talk with each other about everything. Be completely honest with one another. Be patient with your military boyfriend when he can't tell you something work related. Sometimes the secrecy is due to the nature of his job, other times he may not want to tell you because it is too disturbing. Trust his decision.

Step4

Join an online military girlfriend support group or forum. Many of the military wife forums also welcome girlfriends. Shop around before picking one that suits you. Each forum and group has its own personality. You want to meet people who match your needs. The women in the groups can answer your questions, lend a listening ear and understand your situation when no one else can.

Step5

Learn the basics of military acronyms. Every branch of the military has its own language and acronyms. When you hear your honey say "I have to take the APFT before my CO lets me change my MOS." Ask him to translate. By the way, in Army-ese, that means "I have to take the Army Physical Fitness Test before my commander officer lets me change my military occupational specialty."

Step6

Be patient when driving onto the base. Unless your military man is with you in the car, getting on base can be a real pain. You need your driver's license, car registration, proof of car insurance and they may have you call your boyfriend to prove you have reason to enter the base. You have to present your documentation to the gate guard where they may inspect your vehicle. They then give you a visitor's pass. There can be long lines to get a pass, so bring a book.

Step7

Meet other people in your military man's unit. Go with him to unit functions and meet the guys he works with as well as their wives and girlfriends. When you are a military girlfriend, you are often left out of the loop when it comes to the dissemination of unit information. The unit tells things to the wives, but not to the girlfriends. If you make friends with one of the wives, she can fill you in. This is especially helpful when your military man is deployed.

Step8

Get used to military time. It's not 6 p.m., it's 1800 hours. Also get used to arriving at functions at least 15 minutes early. Military men are punished when they are late, so being early becomes a habit that bleeds into their everyday life.

Step9

Prepare yourself for a deployment. Whether for a few months or a couple of years, deployments are a reality. They are rarely easy for you (or him), but you can get through them. Use your support groups, communicate with your military man as much as possible, take the time to achieve your own goals and limit the amount of news you watch (it makes it easier).

How to Get Power of Attorney for a Military Deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:57:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need:

Military power of attorney

Step1

Designate a person, usually a spouse or a family member, who will take care of your financial and personal matters while you are deployed.

Step2

Determine the length of time a power of attorney will be necessary. Depending on the deployment schedule, this is usually 6 months to a year.

Step3

Locate a local U.S. Armed Forces Legal Assistance office. You are not required to pay and you can use their services if you are active duty, retired active duty or a dependant of either.

Step4

Consult with a legal assistance attorney to create a military power of attorney.

Step5

Specify the actions you want included in a special power of attorney. If you choose a general power of attorney, you will give total control of your finances and personal matters to the person you designate.

Step6

Sign the power of attorney before you deploy! Even the simplest of tasks, like shutting off utilities, will be impossible without that signed piece of paper.

How to deal with a significant other returning from a deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:55:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You'll Need:

Love
Compassion
A good pair of ears
Patience

Step1

Remember that you can never relate to or understand what your loved on when through, unless you've been through it yourself. It's the old line about walking a mile in the other's shoes.

Don't pretend like you know what they are going through if you don't.

Don't patronize them.

Step2

Listen to them. They may want to tell you things that are disturbing to hear. But, look at it this way. Obviously they need to get some things off their chest and you are the person they trust enough to tell about it.

If things are too disturbing for you to hear, calmly and quietly tell them that. But, don't say "I don't want to hear it" and don't judge them for their actions.

What they did, they did to save their own lives and bring themselves home to you.

Step3

Let them know that you are there for them. When they first get home, things might be wonderful for the first few weeks or months. But that can change suddenly.

If your significant other appears to be dealing with everything very well, just let them know that you are there for them when/if they need to talk about things.

Step4

If you can't handle the things your significant other needs to tell you, find someone who can. This needs to be someone they trust and can talk to. Some one who won't judge them. It may be a family member or friend, clergy or a medical professional.

But, they need to talk about these things in order to cope and deal with it. It's important that someone listen.

Step5

Don't try to push them into something they are not ready for. Many people returning from deployment aren't ready to resume a sexual relationship. Be understanding and patient. It doesn't mean they don't want you any more. It means they have to readjust their thinking from being in a war zone to being home. It's a major adjustment.

They may not be good with crowds. Don't push them. If they don't want to go to Walmart, don't make them.

If they don't feel comfortable caring for the kids, because it has been so long, don't force them into it.

Returning from a deployment requires adjustments in every aspect of life. Be patient.

Step6

Some of the pep may be gone from their step. They may not laugh as much as before. That's okay. The person you knew has changed. But, you may not realize it, you have changed too. You became more independent while they were gone and that may also be hard for them to handle.

If this is the person you love and they love you (and lack of affection when returning from a deployment doesn't mean they don't still love you), everything will come in time.

Just because the person is different, doesn't mean you can't have a wonderful life together.

How to Raise Young Children During a Military Deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:52:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You'll Need:

Map
Calendar
Stickers
Video recorder

Step1

Talk to your children before the deployment. Children need to hear honest explanations about where there parent will be, what they will be doing and when they are coming back.

Step2

Explain that deployment is part of a job. Children may internalize their feelings, and think that they are the reason their mother or father is gone. Even if they don't express this to you, make sure you let them know they didn't do anything to make their parent leave.

Step3

Stick to existing routines as much as possible, but create new routines that help your child communicate and deal with the temporary loss of their parent.

Step4

Post a map in their room. Mark where the deployed parent is and then where you are. Talk openly about the distance, but calm their fears by finding fun facts about where the deployed parent is. This may divert their attention from their fears, and give them something besides the distance to focus on.

Step5

Hang a calendar before the deployment and put a sticker on each day of the deployment. Give your child the sticker every morning and remind them that it is a daily gift from the deployed parent. They will wear it proudly.

Step6

Encourage your children to talk on the phone with their deployed parent and make pictures or write letters to send on a weekly basis. Make sure the deployed parent responds, either by letter or phone to each thing sent.

Step7

Make a recording of the deployed parent reading stories, and make this a bedtime routine. Hearing the sound of their mother or father's voice may calm them and make them feel like their parent is not so far away. It is also calming for the parent left to raise the children!

How to Get Through a Deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:38:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You'll Need:

Family
Friends
Computer or laptop
Cell phone

Step1

Stay open to a change in plans.

There is a flurry of activity in the beginning. Sometimes leave dates get moved and all your plans go right down the drain. Try to go with the flow. It's just as stressful on your loved one as it is on you.

Step2

Purchase a cell phone.

There is nothing worse at this time than missing a phone call from your deployed loved one. Get a cell phone and keep it with you so you never miss a call.

Step3

Have access to the internet.

Depending on where your loved one is deployed, they may only have access to a computer and not a phone. If you do not have access at home and do not have a friend or family member with internet, check out your local library. Most libraries have internet access.

Step4

Be prepared for no contact.

The first few days for your loved one are usually spent traveling. They may not have a chance to e-mail or call. It may be a week or longer before you hear anything.

There are also times throughout the deployment when your loved one cannot access the internet or a phone and you may not have any contact for several days. This is typical and normal.

Step5

Stay positive.

When you do finally get that phone call or e-mail, do your best to stay positive for your loved one. Their job is much easier if they know you are okay. This does not mean you have to be positive throughout the deployment or that you cannot talk to your loved one about things you are struggling with. However, in the beginning, it's easier for them to settle in if they don't have additional worries.

Step6

Get busy.

Do whatever you can do to entertain yourself. Anything you can do to keep busy while empowering yourself is a great way to spend your time.

See "Tips"

Step7

Send packages.

Your loved one loves nothing better than packages from home. It's best to ask what they would like to have before you send anything. That way you can send things they are in need of along with the fun things you want to send.

Have your children help prepare packages. It makes them feel included and less helpless.

Step8

Realize that some days are just no good.

No matter how hard you try, no matter how positive your outlook, no matter how busy you are, some days are going to be overwhelming. Some days you will feel angry. Some you will feel sad. Some you will feel a mixture of both. On those days, just focus on getting through that day.

See "Warnings"

Step9

Be prepared for the homecoming.

Finally, the day you have waited for arrives and your loved one is coming home! As with the beginning of the deployment, be open to change. Flights change and get delayed. Dates can get moved around.

Most important, your loved one may not be up to the ideas you have planned. As hard as it is, try not to have expectations and remain open to what your loved one is comfortable with. The deployment is over but the adjusting is just beginning. Remember, there is nothing wrong with getting outside help if you need it. Sometimes coming home is harder than leaving.

Step10

Give yourself a pat on the back.

It takes a strong person to get through a loved one's deployment. We go though it so other families don't have to. We are a silent, but brave minority. Be proud. You are supporting your loved one and your country.

How to Readjust to Family Life after Deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:35:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You'll Need:

A no-holds-barred celebration
An almost immediate family vacation away from home
Your deployment workbook
An approachable attitude that allows others into your private sphere
An attitude of understanding and respect for the accomplishments of your family in your absence

Step1

Celebrate! You've been deployed a long time but were fortunate enough to return home. Thank your lucky stars and celebrate this momentous occasion. When your family meets you at the airport, on base or at the pier, expect tears to fall freely—theirs and yours. Don't be ashamed of showing that kind of emotion even if you've never been given to it before. Everyone changes during extended deployments and if you've seen service in a combat zone, your life-and-death experiences will have made you a different person. Despite these emerging realities, enjoy the reunion with your family.

Step2

Get out of Dodge. When you return from deployment, you're really coming home from a year's worth of work. As a result, you see home as a long sought after respite. On the other hand, your spouse sees the same house as a place of work, the family's central nervous system in which a year's worth of experiences—good, bad, enlightening, bewildering—have taken place since. To level the playing field for all involved, take advantage of one of the many vacation offers available to military families. A week or so away from home will allow you and your family to create new experiences together in a non-threatening environment, and it will enable you to ease back into your role as husband, wife, father or mother. The trip will also permit your family to adjust to you being among them again.

Step3

Break out the book. Back home after the vacation, spend an evening with your family talking about some of the things that have happened in your absence. Open your deployment workbook, grab the calendar you should have included and collectively review the weeks and months that have passed. Talk about some of your experiences, achievements, fears and disappointments while inviting your family members to do the same. It's critically important that you have a chance to discuss with them your combat patrols, resupply missions and Saturday night poker games. At the same time, it's vital to give your spouse and children the chance to tell about achievements at the office, fighting with lawnmowers that quit working, how second grade is so much more difficult than first and that the Christmas band concert at school was the best ever.

Step4

Recognize change. You've been gone quite a while and during that time you've grown personally and professionally. The same is true for your spouse. The moment you left home all those months ago, your spouse added your family and household duties to hers or his. Events such as praising or disciplining children, maintaining the yard, house and cars, walking the dog and even killing those really big, angry-looking spiders that occasionally skitter across the living room floor instantly disappeared from your responsibility list and materialized on your spouse's. In fact, he or she can probably tell you many things you didn't know about your own familial responsibilities. Listen closely to the experiences your spouse relates and accept that life went on in your household in spite of your absence.

Step5

Don't upset the apple cart. Your spouse has kept the family running smoothly while you've been gone but that didn't happen by itself. She or he has learned to keep tabs on his or her schedule and those of the children, and doing so successfully required strict scheduling. Moreover, your spouse has planned time so precisely as a defense against the emotional effects of your absence. Take a step back and watch your spouse in action. Learn what's changed and don't question her or his techniques until you understand the motivation behind them.

Step6

Separate but together. Essentially, you, your spouse and your kids have led separate lives during the course of your deployment. Because of that, each person needs a bit of time daily to be alone with individual thoughts. You were able to do that during your absence while you were eating at the mess hall, working out, cleaning your weapon or listening to music. Your spouse and family used similar methods to decompress. Talk about this openly with your spouse and family, and for the first several weeks after your return, be careful about inadvertently invading someone's private space.

How to Support a Spouse During Military Deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:32:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Keep in touch by email and phone if possible. If your spouse has access to his email and to a phone while he is on deployment, email him daily to keep his spirits up, and keep your cell phone with you at all times so that you can take his call no matter where you happen to be.

Step2

Send care packages regularly that are stocked with his favorite food, books, magazines, DVD's and anything else that you think will help him pass the time and forget for a moment that he is on deployment.

Step3

Write thoughtful, supportive letters. Your spouse needs a lot of encouragement to get through this time, and receiving actual letters in the mail that he can hold on to and read whenever he needs more encouragement will help him to get through it. Include recent photographs of you, your children and other members of the family in each letter.

Step4

Involve your children, family and friends by asking them to write emails and letters and to send packages and photos to your deployed spouse. Your spouse needs everyone's support through this time, not only yours.

Step5

Stay positive. Even though you will undoubtedly go through tough times while your spouse is on deployment, keep your words, emails and letters to him as positive and uplifting as possible.

Step6

Tell him you love him every chance you get. This is not the time for arguments. Let your spouse know that you are there for him and that you are in love with him. Stay close during this time period so that when he comes home, there was never any doubt in his mind who would be there waiting for him.

How to Prepare for an Army Deployment (For the spouse) | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:08:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You'll Need:

Lockbox
Journal
Notebook
Pen
Time

Step1

TAKE TIME TO OVERCOME THE SHOCK As military spouses we all know and understand the mission of the Army and we have learned what role our spouses play in that mission. If you are a new military spouse and have no idea what I am talking about, feel free to leave me a message and I'll be happy to teach you that, as well. We know we have to be prepared at all times for anything yet when our spouse walks in on a normal day to inform us of stop loss, we start sweating and when he has orders to deploy, it is natural to go through a range of emotions from panic to anger to fear to frustration to well.. you may ride a rollercoaster of emotions you have never encounted but this is when you need to stop and breathe. Hug your spouse and let him/her know that soon you will have a lot to ask or say but for the time you think you should take time to let the news sink in. He/she will understand. Whatever it is that you do to relax, this is now the time to do it.

Step2

START A JOURNAL. Somewhere around the house most of us already have an unused journal. Dig deep in your white elephant closet, if you have such, and I bet you may have one there. If not, maybe go to the store or a craft store and purchase a new one with a style on the cover that best represents you. This will be your deployment journal and starting from the time you buy it, start journaling any thoughts, fears, joys, etc. regarding the deployment. I found trying to journal daily was my preference but for some, depending on jobs, and general business of life, once a week may be all you can do and that is fine but be sure to keep one. Get creative with your journal. You don't always have to write in a journal. Perhaps it's Halloween and you think about Halloween with your spouse, you may put a photo from last Halloween on that day's page. You may decide to draw one day or paint. Hey, it's your journal...make it yours! You'll start it now but it will be like a good friend to talk to for the next 12-15 months.

Step3

ATTEND DEPLOYMENT BRIEFINGS WITH YOUR SPOUSE THAT ARE OPEN TO FAMILY MEMBERS. This is perhaps one step a lot of spouses miss. For whatever reason they don't attend with their servicemember. At a deployment briefing so much helpful information is put out for families. You'll hear what services/organizations/etc. your spouse needs to ensure he/she has visited to have forms completed and etc. You really should be a part of this. If you work, ask to take off for this and if you have children, see about a babysitter for the day. People realize the nature of the deployment briefings and will try to accomodate you. A lesson well learned is not to depend on your spouse to bring the info. to you. Can you imagine how much is on their mind at the time and how easy it is for them to accidentally forget other things you need to know? Take a notebook with you. If you are a slow note taker,heck take a cassette recorder. This is 2008 so get s small one, don't just bust in there with w big jambox. (just a lil light humor) If services are there and set up, take time after the briefing to walk around and pick up information from each one. You never know which ones you could have already benefitted from and which ones you'll soon need. This way you are making yourself a self-reliant spouse having info. you may need. After you return home, ask your spouse any questions you may have about anything you heard at the briefing. He/she will explain it to you to where you can understand.

Step4

HAVE THE TALK EVERYONE WISHES TO AVOID. This is perhaps the talk most spouses wish to avoid but please realize it needs to take place. I can't express this enough. Let your spouse know you realize such a talk needs to occur and let them tell you when is a good time for them. This is when you discuss your spouse's plans for his/her death. To make it easier, do as I did and make it a two sided conversation discussing your wishes for your death as well. (also another article) At this time look together over his will and find out the specifics such as location of burial, whether he/she desires full military honors, other special requests, etc. Write this information down in a notebook and save it. I recommend having your spouse sign and date the end of whatever you write just in case a family dispute arises later. I am not a lawyer so I am not sure it will hold up in court but always be safe. This will be a solemn conversation but just know he/she will appreciate you making that step. Be cautioned that if this becomes a humorous thing for your spouse, don't ridicule them, as long as you're getting facts, just take any crazy extra fill in info. and toss it aside. Some soldiers have a strange way of approaching things...like my husband for example. But as long as you get his true desires, you have done well.

Step5

GET YOU A CHECKLIST & COMPLETE IT. If you have not already done so, make a deployment checklist. I will a deployment checklist article here soon, so check it, see if there are others already here on eHow or google one. Included on this list will be your spouse's will, insurance papers, power of attorney, etc. Store these documents in your lockbox with any other valuables. You should already have a lockbox in your home, if not, you do now. Keep all other emergency info. here such as passports, copies of ID cards, SS cards, marriage certificate, birth certificates, etc. Go through your checklist and complete the entire list.

Step6

UTILIZE YOUR COMMUNITY SERVICES. Although you will be busy, go through the brochures, flyers, etc. you received at the deployment briefing. If you didn't obtain anything, start with Red Cross. From there they can direct you to other sources. Educate yourself on how to send a Red Cross message, how to read a LES, etc. If you are an Army spouse as I am, be sure you attend your FRG meetings.

Step7

me and hubby before deployment spending time in Bad Kissingen, Germany DEVOTE TIME TO YOUR SPOUSE. Throughout all these steps, this is something you have been doing. You almost end up playing this by watching your spouse. Let me explain, sometimes you and your spouse will smother each other because he/she is wanting more of you but on the other hand you may see times where he/she is not so close. This is normal and as time goes by you'll understand how for some strange reason spouses seem to start to draw themselves apart before a long separation. I believe the reasoning to be because it will be easier to say goodbye but don't think you'll be missed any less. This is just a servicemembers way of dealing with the hurt of an upcoming separation before it takes place. No harm intended and not to be expected by all soldiers. Whatever time you do get together, talk. Talk about everything, the good, the bad and the ugly. Each couple knows what makes them tick so this step is all on you to personalize but PAMPER your spouse in all ways. If it kills you (and it won't) let your husband get away with murder...let him get away with teasting you or walking around singing in the voice that just makes you want to puke...just share laughter at all times you can!

Step8

MAKE A HAPPY BOX. The days leading up to your spouse's deployment, create what I call a happy box. Take a box like a large old cigar box and tell your spouse it's his/her job to decorate it and fill it with momentos, notes, that will make you smile or make you happy. Now don't be suprised if it is decorated crazy...we all aren't Martha Stewart. This box is not to be opened by you until after he/she deploys but make sure you have been told where to find it. When you get sad, just go dog through it.

Step9

BECOME A DEPLOYMENT INVESTIGATOR. I realize this step is out of order but about a month away from deployment, make the library and the internet your friend. Research stories about deployment, military resources, etc. Chances are there is a lot you need to learn. If your spouse is still there when your learning begins, he/she can help you understand what you are learning more. Bookmark the websites and forums for military spouses, you will find them helpful.

Step10

GET YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM ESTABLISHED. Well I have this saying that if someonw is not going to encourage me, be there for me at all times, be a positive role model for me, etc. they are toxic and they are not in my support group. The people in this group will be those people who are resourceful, maybe spouses who are what I call military immune (been military spouses awhile), your FRG, spouses club members, etc. You will know who is a good fit for you but be sure you have a support system. Some people think they have to have a lot of friends but always know a few true friends last a lifetime and are enough.

Step11

HELP YOUR SPOUSE PREPARE Of course you have been helping your spouse mentally but when it comes time to pack up, take part. I always feel more useful even if all I am doing is calling out and checking off the list. I am stingy with my husband's time anytime he leaves so I don't even let the hour or so for packing get wasted...I am there and he enjoys my company. Sometimes you may want to get sneaky, add some cards you've already prepared for him in his bags after he has packed them. I usually send about a 3 week supply of cards scattered in his stuff and marked on the outside what date he is to open which. It comes as a pleasant surprise especially since it will be awhile before he has an address to write him at. Just a suggestion. If there are things still needed, try to go shopping for them for your spouse.

Step12

DEPLOYMENT DAY & DEPLOYMENT PLAN. While no one can really say how they will handle a deployment, it is good to have a deployment notebook to jot down ideas of things you can do during the deployment. Maybe losing or gaining weight, traveling, going to school, learning a new skill, whatever you can think of...write it down as a plan. If you are pretty organized give yourself some goals for doing those things. Also have a deployment day plan in place. Do you want to be alone or among others? Keep in mind other spouses are having the same day you will be so maybe if you know someone, get together right afterwards for support. Call a family member or journal.

Step13

IF POSSIBLE SPEND THE LAST MOMENTS TOGETHER. The opportunity is not always there but if your spouse has to check in at a certain time the night before deployment and you can be there, be there. In our case everyone checked in and then remained outside until morning came. Boy are soldiers creative. They can make a bed of anything...smile. I slept outside cuddled with my husband while it drizzled. Next morning headed for the gym where they would deploy from. Time is precious to take advantage of it.

Step14

PUT YOUR DEPLOYMENT DAY PLAN & DEPLOYMENT PLAN IN PLACE. This is day one. Pull out your deployment plan notebook and when you are ready, get started. Don't let too much time pass because you may fall into an ugly pit of depression. Don't expect to hear from your spouse immediately and know that as soon as he/she can, you will get a call or a letter. The next 12-15 months will be tough but hopefully these steps will get you on a good start.

How to Prepare Children for a Parent's Deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:05:00.001-05:00

link

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Be honest and upfront with children about an upcoming deployment. Do not wait till the last minute to inform a child that you will be going away for a prolonged period of time. It is important to give the children enough time to digest the situation, ask questions and receive answers. Sometimes, the deployment is sudden, but the parent still must set aside time to communicate and reassure the child.

Step2

Make sure the parent that is left to care for the child during deployment knows all about base-wide services that are available to the spouse and the children of deployed soldiers. Many base installations have clubs and groups that are specifically geared to children of deployed soldiers. It is a wonderful way to help children connect with other children that are experiencing what they are, and it gives them access to counseling support that can be instrumental in helping the children with stress that builds when a parent deploys.

Step3

Ask the child to help pack. This can help the child feel involved in the deployment process and give them time to communicate and ask those hard questions that may be weighing on their mind.

Step4

Take the opportunity to teach the child about the rules of OPSEC. This will also help the child to feel like they are carrying out a responsible and important task while the parent is deployed.

Step5

Limit the amount of news the child will have access to viewing. Keeping up with current events is important to everyone, including children. However, the news can depict the dangers and negative aspects that are involved in many of the locations their parents may be deployed to. Having this constant reminder of the dangers and negativities associated with deployments may cause more stress to the child.

Step6

Exchange special keepsakes with the child. The parent can give the child an item like a hat they wear for work or an extra set of "dog tags." The child can give the parent something they hold dear. This will give each something special to stay connected to. Having a special keepsake helps people stay close even when there is distance keeping them apart.

Step7

Give the child a framed photograph of the parent that is deploying. The child can keep this next to their bed and use it to reflect and communicate with their loved one. Also, give the deploying parent a framed picture of the child. This will help the child feel like they are with the parent during the separation period.

Step8

Assign a specific chore for the child to carry out. This will make the child feel like they have an important role in the family while their parent is deployed.

Step9

Invest in a flat daddy or flat mommy. These are photo posters of the deployed parent that can be rolled up and toted all over the place with the child. The child can also make their own daddy or mommy poster buy drawing a picture of the parent that will be deploying on paper and decorating it.

Step10

Make tape recordings or video tapes reading the child's favorite stories to them. This will allow the deployed parent to interact with the child even while they are deployed. The tapes or videos can be played each night at bedtime, which will give the child a daily dose of the parent they are missing.

Step11

Establish a meaningful phrase that can be a special phrase the deployed parent and child say daily. It could as simple as "I love you, I miss you" or "I love you, sleep tight, goodnight."

Step12

Spend a few weeks prior to deployment hiding small gifts and special notes around the home. Make up maps and clues that can be given to the child every few weeks to help them search for what has been hidden.

Step13

Help the child plan out and schedule fun activities to take part in while the parent is deployed. Mark down on the calendar the chosen activities that were decided. This will give the child something to look forward to and give them something to write or talk about with the parent that is deployed. It will also prevent the child from moping around the house waiting and constantly thinking about not having that parent there. It is a good habit to keep children of deployed military members busy.

Step14

Give the child and family a special keepsake box where they can collect the letters and souvenirs the deployed parent sends home. Also, the deployed parent should make sure and send letters addressed directly to the child. This will make the child feel important and reassure them that they are in the parent's thoughts.

Step15

Try to schedule phone calls home during times the child will be available. This can often be difficult because of the time differences that may present a true obstacle. However, it is important to try and keep the lines of communications open with the child and being able to talk and hear the voice of their deployed parent can go a long way to lessening stress.

How to Prepare for an Extended Deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:03:00.000-05:00

link

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You'll Need:

A deployment workbook
A will
A living will
Special or general powers of attorney for your spouse or next of kin
A list of important points of contact

Step1

Know your responsibilities. Deployments are almost always planned well in advance giving those affected sufficient time to put their personal affairs in order prior to leaving home. The military or your organization will provide you with all the inoculations, uniforms and equipment necessary for you to deal with your ordeal, but as a spouse, parent or dependent, the onus is on you to prepare your family for your protracted absence. Recognize this responsibility and take advantage of all the opportunities given to you by the military and its expansive support network.

Step2

Your deployment workbook. All military organizations will conduct pre-deployment seminars and you shouldn't sleep through any of them. There, you'll receive a number of handouts valuable to you and your family. Bring each of these home and create your personal deployment workbook to which your spouse, child or parents can easily refer when they need assistance. Create a table of contents that identifies the location of each important piece of information and complete a list of frequently called telephone numbers and websites to simplify the process of receiving answers to important and sometimes time-sensitive questions.

Step3

Taking care of legal business. Make appointments with the judge advocate general's office at the nearest military installation in order to complete your last will and testament. The legal office will also help you execute powers of attorney that will allow your next of kin to accomplish tasks such as filing your income tax or depositing the refund check, renewing your vehicle registration or ensuring your driver's license doesn't expire during your absence. Also, either that office or the nearest military hospital will assist you in preparing a living will should you desire to do so.

Step4

Do the paperwork. Ensure that all of your important documents are properly sorted, identified and stored. Examples of such documents include vehicle titles, home mortgage information, passports, birth certificates, social security cards, diplomas and degrees, and other financial information relating to insurance, investments or credit. Consider keeping these valuable documents in a lockable file cabinet or fireproof home safe, and make certain your family has access to the key, combination or entry code.

Step5

Hold the classifieds. Include some copies of recent base newspapers in your deployment workbook. These publications often list "military friendly" businesses that offer services such as free oil changes, tire rotations, reduced-cost meals, entertainment specials and travel assistance. Additionally, these periodicals frequently print lists of important phone numbers that will make it simpler and faster for your family to identify and contact critical organizations such as medical facilities, exchanges, car service centers, legal services, child development centers and unit representatives.

Step6

You and your surrogate. Your deployment workbook will serve as your representative in your absence. Aside from the important references you include, be sure to stock it with pictures of yourself alone and with members of your family. Their ability to look at and reminisce about the pictures and events that surrounded them will further ease the burden of your absence.

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Tips & Warnings

Pay close attention to the information you gain during your pre-deployment briefings, especially the portions that relate to legal matters.
In addition to your important documents, your safe or filing cabinet should also contain a list of login and password information for critical websites such as schools, fraternal organizations or critical, work related portals.
Include a calendar in your deployment workbook that spans the anticipated length of your deployment. Your family members can jot down interesting things that happened in your absence and relive them with you upon your return.
Powers of attorney are delicate guarantors of legal authority and they should only be given when absolutely needed and to people you trust implicitly.

Resources

How to get through a military deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-28T00:01:00.001-05:00

link

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You'll Need:

Dedication
Patience
Love
Understanding

Step1

When your spouse gets ready to leave, have a special note for them to read on the trip. It's something they can carry with them whenever and where ever they like.

Step2

Make sure there is nothing unfinished between the two of you. Being apart in a stressful situation is not a time to fight or argue. As sad as it is, you don't know if it's going to be the last time you talk to your loved one and you don't want to leave things on a sour note.

Step3

Listen to them when they call. They love you and are concerned about your day and your life away from them. But, at the same time, they are putting their lives on the line every day. Listen to them, even if it is them complaining or even crying.

Listening lets them know that you are there for them emotionally, if not physically.

Step4

Tell them how much you love them. They already know this (or they should) but hearing it and seeing it in letters never hurts either. The higher their moral, the more alert and aware they will be.

Step5

Write to them as often as possible. Send cards, letters and packages. Even if they don't have the time to write back, write to them. You can use it as a way to relieve stress and they can always have something tangible to hold that is a piece of home.

Step6

Be patient and let things roll off your back. Yes, it's easier said then done but the time will pass and hopefully your loved on will come back to you unharmed. Until then, nothing you do will bring them home sooner. Just love them and support them.

Step7

Try not to bother them with problems from home. I know things happen in every day life that can be a small tragedy, but your spouse can't fix things from thousands of miles away. So, if the garbage man accidentally tossed your trash all over the street and you had to clean it up, try not to share it. You don't want to stress your loved one out because telling them these kinds of things will only make them wish they were home so they could take care of it.

Step8

Tell them you are proud of them. You may not agree with the war and you may have your own beliefs, but what they are doing is something strong, noble and challenging. They need to know that you are behind them 100 percent and that you will always be there for them.

How to Deal With Your Husband's Deployment | eHow.com

2009-03-27T23:57:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Step1

Make sure all lose ends are tied up before your partner's deployment. Have phone numbers readily available that you can reach his work at, or the repairman, or one of his friend's who promised to fix the car if anything went wrong. Any numbers that your partner might normally know should be out for you to get a hold of in a hurry.

Step2

Join an online support group for military family members where you can share grievances.

Step3

Make friends with the other spouses of deployed people. This is very important because you will need to lean on someone who understands and knows what you are going through during these hard times. Spend as much time with them as possible, possibly sharing dinner nights at each others houses so your homes don't feel so lonely.

Step4

If you have kids, get to know the parents of your children's friends so that you can share play dates. It can be very hard being a single parent when a spouse is deployed, so sharing responsibilities between friends can be a life-saver.

How to Deal With the First Deployment of Your Husband | eHow.com

2009-03-27T23:54:00.001-05:00

link

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Normally before a deployment there is what's called a Deployment Fair. It's very important to attend this event because you find out an enormous amount of information. One very critical thing you will find out at this event is how to get Power of Attorney, which is something you will definitely need. You also can get contact for your Family Readiness Group(FRG). This official command-sponsered organization consists of family members, volunteers, and soldiers of a unit who provide support and assistance to the families of deployed soldiers.

Step2

Try not to look at the big picture. Break down the deployment time by concentrating on other smaller time periods. One fun thing to do is to count toothbrushes. Since you are supposed to change toothbrushes every three months, look at a 12 month deployment as just four toothbrush changes. This is something that you and the children can do at home and your husband can do as well.

Step3

Make a list of about 25 fun things that you and the kids can do. For example research fun museums or other interesting places in other cities not too far from your home. Twice a month make the drive to one of the places. Visit shops in the area, have lunch, make a whole day out of it.

Step4

Start something you may have always been interested in. Learn to play an instrument, take a drama, art or photography class or maybe even go back to school. Look into all your resources because you may qualify for scholarships and grants. Also this would be a perfect time to get the children involved in some activity. If you live on base, your children can get a certain amount of lessons and play sports for free. Also you should qualify for a certain amount of free child care hours a month. Check all your resources!

Step5

Set a goal to accomplish by the time he gets home. It could be losing weight, toning up, quitting smoking, or some other bad habit. Make this the time to do it.

Step6

Plan something fun to do when your hubby comes home. Pick out a family vacation destination and start saving for it now. Be sure to check into the Savings Deposit Program because this is a great opportunity to get 10% interest on your savings.

Step7

Stay connected! If your husband is in a place where he can get internet access, make sure you have a webcam. This will be really fun for the children and once the children are in bed, mommy and daddy can have fun as well! It's important to talk as much as possible, to pray with each other, and to respect the trust you have both given to each other. Try not to argue over anything. Instead find a way to make every moment you share fun and loving.

How to Cope When a Spouse is Deployed | Answerbag.com

2009-03-27T23:41:00.001-05:00

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Instructions

Step 1:
Plan to have some special time alone together before your spouse leaves. If you have kids, make sure to have plenty of quality family time together. Create good memories that will help you remember the good times when your husband or wife deploys. Take pictures to look at when you need a pick-me-up.
Step 2:
Be prepared for a wave of emotions ranging from anger to fear to sadness. Know that your feeling don't mean you aren't being supportive of your spouse. Talk with your spouse. Talk honestly and often with your children about the deployment.
Step 3:
Get the legal stuff taken care of. As difficult as it may be to think about something devastating happening, it's important that the deploying soldier have an up-to-date will. Write down the information you will need to contact your spouse in the case of an emergency.
Step 4:
Discuss the budget and bills and make sure you will be able to have full control over the finances while your spouse is overseas. You can set up direct payments for many loans and other bills to save time. If your spouse was in charge of filing taxes, be prepared to learn how or contact an accountant.
Step 5:
Talk about your cars. If you have multiple cars, you should make plans to maintain your spouse's car if you intend to keep it. You also might want to talk to your insurance company about your options.
Step 6:
Before your spouse is deployed, find someone you can talk to. If you live on a military installation, there are support groups available. You can also lean on friends or family. There are many online support groups that will allow you to anonymously express your fears when you need to.
Step 7:
Sign up for a unit newsletter if there is one.
Step 8:
If you have children, find out what child care services are available.
Step 9:
Learn the signs of depression and distress. Watch for them in your kids and yourself during the deployment.
Step 10:
Pick up a new hobby to keep busy during the deployment. Participating in a recreational sports league or book club is a great way to meet new people and stay active. Try volunteering at a local school, animal shelter or charity organization. You could take a class at a nearby college or gym. Feed your soul by taking up painting or writing, or just indulge yourself in some good books.
Step 11:
Keep your spirits up by preparing care packages for your spouse. Include photos or drawings your children have made.
Step 12:
Remember that while phone calls and emails are great, sometimes the best form of communication while two people are away from one another is writing letters.

Tips & Warnings

If you are separated for a holiday, simply delay it. There's nothing wrong with having Christmas in March if that holiday is special for your family.
Know that no two people go through exactly the same thing during a separation. Do what feels right to you, and don't get angry if your kids or spouse doesn't feel the same way you do.
Don't be embarrassed about talking to a medical professional if you feel you or your children may be experiencing depression or anxiety.

How to Cope When a Spouse is Deployed Provided by eHow.com

How to Survive a Spouse's Military Deployment | Answerbag.com

2009-03-27T23:38:00.001-05:00

link

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Letters
Care packages

Step 1:
Express your concerns about the risks of deployment and the responsibilities you will take on once your spouse has deployed. Schedule special time to do this instead of letting your emotions dictate when you talk. Your spouse is feeling pressure, too, and they need to be able to express those concerns to you.
Step 2:
Attend briefings for spouses and families, if offered, prior to the deployment. Getting information about how to contact your spouse, what to do in an emergency and meeting other families in your spouse's unit will help diminish some of your anxiety.
Step 3:
Become involved with other spouses in your unit, or at least keep in contact with them, during the deployment. If you should need their support throughout the deployment, you will feel more comfortable if you have been talking to them.
Step 4:
Decide to be positive before phone calls with your spouse. Be honest about emotions, but tell him how you solved a situation instead of how frustrated you were by the situation. Show him how much you need him, but tell them that you are getting by on your own, as well.
Step 5:
Send letters on a weekly basis, and care packages once a month. Letters and packages can take some time to get to your spouse, so if you are able to communicate by email or phone, make sure your letters aren't repeating information you have already told your spouse. Make letters about personal things, and keep family updates and everyday life for phone calls and emails.
Step 6:
Stay informed about current events. Watching the news is a great way to do this, but remember that sensational stories make the news, and this is not always a good depiction of real life.
Step 7:
Allow yourself time to get used to being away from your spouse, and don't feel bad when you wake up one day and feel better. It doesn't mean you don't love or need them, it just means you are stronger than you think!

Tips & Warnings

Other military spouses will know how you are feeling better than many of your long-time friends, because they are feeling it too. They don't have to be your best friend, but you may need a friendly voice when no one else in your life seems to understand your situation.
Deployments make for tired people, so don't be offended when the tone of your spouse's voice on the phone is less than enthusiastic. It doesn't mean they don't miss you, it just means they need some sleep!
It is normal to feel sad and lonely from time to time, but if your mood gets worse or you notice you are letting things go, you may be showing signs of depression. Talk to your doctor immediately if you think you are suffering from depression.

How to Survive a Spouse's Military Deployment Provided by eHow.com

How to Stay in Touch During a Military Deployment | Answerbag.com

2009-03-27T23:31:00.001-05:00

link

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Letters
Care packages
Email
Camera
Video Recorder

Step 1:
Write letters on a weekly basis. All it takes is getting that first letter in the mail from your deployed loved one, and you realize how important getting and receiving letters can be. If you love it that much, they will appreciate it even more.
Step 2:
Send care packages every month or every other month. Include toiletry items, books, magazines, their favorite hard candy and recent pictures of family, friends and children.
Step 3:
Email every day. Emails are a great way to let them know you are thinking about them. If you don't have time to write a lot, just say, "I'm thinking of you." That's enough.
Step 4:
Mail videos of family get-togethers, holidays, birthdays or just you talking. Make sure they can view the video on their computer. If they can't, then send quick video clips by email.
Step 5:
Create a Carepage where you can keep you deployed family member up to date on what is going on in your community, and at the same time keep your family and friends up to date on your loved one's deployment status. These sites are private and can be viewed by invitation only.

Tips & Warnings

Don't get discouraged if you don't get a response right away. This isn't a vacation for the person deployed. They are working hard and need your understanding when they can't immediately respond.
If you have an emergency and need to contact your deployed family member, you should contact their unit's rear detachment.
If a serious illness or death in the family occurs, you will need to contact the American Red Cross, who will verify the emergency and contact your deployed family member.
Don't send too many things in care packages that will need to be brought back home. Deployed service members have limited space to store things, and they don't have a personal assistant to help them carry their belongings when coming home.

How to Stay in Touch During a Military Deployment Provided by eHow.com

How to Keep a Family Bond During a Military Deployment | Answerbag

2009-03-27T23:28:00.001-05:00

link

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Letters
Pictures

Step 1:
Maintain existing routines as much as possible. Children and adults need consistency to deal with the emotional side of deployment.
Step 2:
Insist that children keep up with their normal chores and school work, but don't overload them with too many additional tasks that were done by the deployed family member. They have enough to deal with.
Step 3:
Make breakfast and dinner a family affair. Use this time to discuss your day and monitor your children's emotions.
Step 4:
Dedicate one evening a week to write letters or emails to the deployed family member. Include pictures and drawings, and ask for pictures in return. Pictures allow children, and spouses, to visualize where the deployed family member is and what they are doing.
Step 5:
Read letters and emails from the deployed family member together. Getting a letter or email is exciting and hard not to open immediately, but reading it as a family will help create that bond, and may spark conversations that help you understand what your children are feeling.
Step 6:
Keep current pictures of the deployed family member displayed, and give your children pictures to keep with them or display in their bedrooms.
Step 7:
Talk about what you will do as a family when the deployment is over. Always stay positive and plan ahead as if everyone is safely at home.

Tips & Warnings

Don't get angry with your children if they seem disinterested by letters or discussions about the missing family member. They need to express their emotions in their own way and in their own time.
Let everyone put their own unique gift in care packages, but send it off together as a family.
If you feel family counseling is necessary, contact the Family Support Center on your base if you are active duty, or go through the Family Assistance Center set up for your reserve unit. Links to all specific military installations can be found at military.com.

How to Keep a Family Bond During a Military Deployment Provided by eHow.com

A Deployment Checklist

2009-03-03T13:39:00.001-06:00

Source of information

This has some good tips on what to take that's not for "official use". :)

Some items included are:

iPod

a reading list
pics of friends & family

laptop - the Acer Aspire One series is compact & very affordable & they have an ACU skin to go on top of it for $14.99!

favorite coffee

civilian clothes

good pair of sandals or flip flops for shower shoes
USAA.com checking account (it's free & the debit card can be used for FREE overseas)

a leatherman

A good digital watch with multiple time-zone capability
Extra green logbooks

rechargeable batteries & charger

Ziploc bags

550 cord

Gladware (for leftover snacks)

2 months of toiletries

plastic bucket (to wash personal items in & to haul laundry with)
1 set twin size sheets

clothespins & clothesline cord

Spouse deployment checklist
family deployment checklist
usaa.com deployment guide

Soldier Poem

2009-03-03T09:59:00.000-06:00

For all the free people that still protest. You're welcome.
We protect you and you are protected by the best.
Your voice is strong and loud, but who will fight for you?
No one standing in your crowd.

We are your fathers, brothers, and sons,
wearing the boots and carrying guns.
We are the ones that leave all we own,
to make sure your future is carved in stone.

We are the ones who fight and die,
We might not be able to save the world,
Well, at least we try.
We walked the paths to where we are at
and we want no choice other than that.

So when you rally your group to complain,
take a look in the back of your brain.
In order for that flag you love to fly
wars must be fought and young men must die.

We came here to fight for the ones we hold dear.
If that's not respected,
we would rather stay here.
So please stop yelling, put down your signs,
and pray for those behind enemy lines.

And then when the conflict is over and all is well,
be thankful that we chose to go through hell.

Computer Tips

2009-03-03T07:55:00.006-06:00

With the internet being the most popular form of communication
these days between soldiers and their families,
make sure your computer continues to run smoothly.
Is your computer too slow? Does it freeze up alot?
If so, please check out these tips and let's get
that computer running great again!


Download these and run/update them weekly..

- AdAware

- Ccleaner

- ZoneAlarm

- AVG Anti-virus (free)

Also, run the disk defrag program on your computer atleast
monthly.

Need a computer question answered? Click here!

A Soldier's Courage

2008-03-19T12:16:00.000-05:00

Recovery from war injuries takes a lifetime

Norris Galatas spends most of his time on the campus of Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C. The Mississippi Army National Guardsman lives in the Guest House - his second home until his surgeries are done.

He hopes to be back for a visit this week, in time for his wife's book signing at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Wal-Mart Bonita Lakes store in Meridian.

Her self-published book, A Soldier's Courage by Janis Galatas, is about him.

"She's really proud of it," he says. "It's opened a lot of people's eyes."

About the war, he means.

Norris Galatas' story, as told by his wife, personalizes these findings of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research:

An estimated 12 to 20 percent of veterans returning from Iraq are troubled by post-traumatic stress disorder.

If you order this book from Amazon at the above link be sure to leave a customer review and show some support/words of encouragement for Janis. :)

Deployment Books for Spouses

2008-01-24T20:10:00.000-06:00

Military Spouse Magazine

Married to the Military: A Survival Guide for Military Wives, Girlfriends, and Women in Uniform

Surviving Deployment: A Guide for Military Families

While They're At War: The True Story of American Families on the Homefront

Separated By Duty, United In Love

Courage After Fire: Coping Strategies for Troops Returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and Their Families

Under the Sabers: The Unwritten Code of Army Wives
This is the book that the Lifetime television series 'Army Wives' is based off of.

Homefires: War Through The Eyes Of A Military Wife

Military Magazines
'Military Family' Books
Other Deployment Related Books

Care Package Online Shopping

2008-01-23T20:49:00.000-06:00

Go care package shopping!

Individually wrapped food items come in handy for deployed soldiers as they stay fresh longer and can be shared easier. Here's just a few care package ideas!

Powdered/instant drinks
Individually wrapped snacks
Ramen noodles (hot commodity!)
Beef jerky
Toiletries
Handheld games
Batteries
Handwritten letters/cards
Photos

Visit this site for tons more.

Wednesday Hero - Airmen from the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron

2008-01-23T20:05:00.000-06:00

Airmen from the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron at an air base in Southwest Asia prepare a C-17 Globemaster III for an airdrop mission Jan. 14 to deliver humanitarian supplies to coalition forces in Afghanistan.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post i

2008 Monthly Budget Spreadsheet

2008-01-18T10:00:00.000-06:00

Here's a (very basic) 2008 budget spreadsheet available for download for personal use that I made. Hope it helps someone!

Click here to view/try it out.

Click here to download for free.

Wednesday's Hero - Cpl. Phillip E. Baucus

2008-01-16T18:09:00.000-06:00

Cpl. Phillip E. Baucus
28 years old from Wolf Creek, Montana
3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force
July 29, 2006

Marine Cpl. Phillip E. Baucus was the nephew of Montana Senator Max Baucus. He joined the corps in 2002 and was sent to Iraq in March of 2005.

Cpl. Baucus was killed alongside fellow Marines Sgt. Christian Williams, 27 yrs old from Winter Haven, Fla. and Lance Cpl. Anthony E. Butterfield, 19 yrs old from Clovis, Calif. during combat operations in Al Anbar province.

"Phillip was an incredible person, a dedicated Marine, a loving son and husband, and a proud Montanan and American," Sen. Baucus said. "He heroically served the country he loved and he gave it his all."

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Wednesday Hero - L Cpl. Nicholas J. Manoukian

2007-01-31T10:37:00.000-06:00

This Weeks Hero Was Submitted By Mark Bell

L Cpl. Nicholas J. Manoukian
22 years old from Lathrup, Michigan
1st Marines 6th Batallion 2nd Marine Division
Oct 21, 2006

Here
is a website that LCpl. Manoukian's mother set up for her son after he lost his life in Ramadi.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
It Is Foolish And Wrong To Mourn The Men Who Died. Rather We Should Thank God That Such Men Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.

Wednesday Hero - Lt. Col. Michael E. McLaughlin

2007-01-24T10:00:00.000-06:00

This Weeks Hero Was Suggested By Kathi

Lt. Col. Michael E. McLaughlin
44 years old from Mercer, Pennsylvania
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, Pennsylvania Army National Guard
January 4, 2006

Sitting in the car with Lt. Col. Michael E. McLaughlin's 18-year-old daughter, her father's friend of 21 years had just broken the news of his death.

During years of friendship and service in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, Lt. Col. McLauglin and retired Capt. Brad Mifsud had a bond so close that they promised each other if something were ever to happen to either one of them, they would be there for the other's family.

Lt. Col. McLaughlin died when a suicide bomber rushed through a crowd of Iraqi police recruits in Ramadi and detonated a bomb that also killed a Marine and nearly 80 Iraqis. The day before the attack, Lt. Col. McLaughlin said he was fully confident that Ramadi had finally turned a corner in the insurgency. As hundreds of local men streamed into the Ramadi Glass Factory on Wednesday to join the city’s long-defunct police force, a wide grin spread over a pinch of tobacco stuffed into the 44-year-old’s lower lip.

"This may not look like much, but it's history," McLaughlin told a reporter. "We're making history right here."

With a significant wound to the back of his head, Lt. Col. McLaughlin turned to his injured personal security detail officers and inquired about their well-being. Waving off medical attention, he asked them to check on the soldiers under his command.

"In an act of extreme selflessness, he stated that he was OK, but to concentrate on saving the lives of his men," said Col. Grey Berrier, a close friend of Lt. Col. McLaughlin.

Lt. Col. McLaughlin died shortly after giving that instruction, according to the Guard.

A long-time artillery officer in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, McLaughlin was assigned to Task Force 2-222 Field Artillery and was the primary liaison between the 2-28 Brigade Combat Team and local tribal and government leaders in Ramadi. His efforts were instrumental in getting local sheikhs to support the recruitment drive and encourage more than 1,000 area men to volunteer for the force, commanders said.

"Mike is a true hero in every sense of the word, and he died while doing his job the only way he knew how - out front and with great enthusiasm and courage," said Col. John L. Gronski, commander of the 2-28 BCT. "This loss only strengthens our resolve to carry on and complete the mission in order to honor his memory."

A gregarious wisecracker, McLaughlin said his hope was to one day return to a peaceful Iraq, where he planned to walk the streets of Ramadi in a traditional Arab "man dress," or dishdasha, and sip coffee and chai with those sheikhs he had met during the war. McLaughlin said that one particular tribal leader he had developed a close relationship with dubbed him "The Sheikh of Sheikhs" - a nickname that was soon picked up by fellow officers in the brigade.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
It Is Foolish And Wrong To Mourn The Men Who Died. Rather We Should Thank God That Such Men Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.

Wednesday Hero - Velez Family

2007-01-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

This Weeks Heroes Were Suggested By CavMom

This week I have three people to talk about. Roy Velez and his two sons, Jose and Andrew. One who was lost in Iraq and another who lost his life in Afghanistan.

It happens almost daily. A stranger reaches out to comfort Roy Velez, unintended symbol of unspeakable loss and grief.

Today it's a woman who approaches as he's halfway through breakfast at Montelongo's Mexican restaurant.

"My brother told me about you and your sons," she says, extending her hand.

He takes her small hand between his - this sturdy man who has buried two boys who went off to war - and listens gently as her own story of sorrow spills forth. Her 8-year-old daughter, a traffic accident, her son at the wheel.

As waiters bustle about with trays of huevos rancheros and barbacoa plates, Mr. Velez does what he does best: offers up a soft prayer to help this mother endure her emptiness.

Strangers learn about Mr. Velez from newspapers and TV. They come to him to share their gratitude or their grief. They come to thank him and console him, tearfully, for his family's sacrifice.

This is how Mr. Velez chooses to live after losing two sons in two years, not riven with anger or paralyzed with sadness. But as someone ready for those who might slip into the darkness of despair.

For his strength for others, compassion and grace - and for serving as inspiration for anyone who knows his story - Mr. Velez is the 2006 Dallas Morning News Texan of the Year.
Because this story is so long, I've linked to the article which you can read in it's entirety.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Have Every Right To Dream Heroic Dreams.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.

Schneider Trucking Awarded Patriotic Employer

2007-01-13T14:18:00.000-06:00

http://www.schneiderjobs.com/drivers/Separating_Military.html
Schneider was one of G.I. Jobs Top 50 military friendly employers for 2006!
September 2006

“Schneider National is very supportive of my military commitments. There is never a second thought on providing me the time necessary to fulfill my obligations to my country, and I am always welcomed back with open arms.

During my recent deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, my supervisor and the IT staff maintained contact with my family and me over the course of the past year. Schneider also continued health coverage for my family at the employee rate and provided differential pay.

Schneider National’s actions truly support the corporate core beliefs of taking care of employees.”

–Martin D. Seifer

--  "Wednesday Hero"  < -- Google It

Wednesday Hero - Spc. Jordan W. Hess

2007-01-10T16:49:00.000-06:00

This Weeks Hero Was Submitted by Beth

Spc. Jordan William Hess
27 years old from Marysville, Washington
Company C, 1st Battalion, 77th Armor Regiment
December 5, 2006

"Specialist Hess died of wounds received on a battlefield upon which no markers or memorials exist, yet his name will be etched upon the small part of each of our hearts that has hardened to stone by the realization of his passing. I will take Specialist Jordan Hess’ name to my own grave, in the hope that I can somehow preserve the honorable life that he led,” said Capt. Ian Lauer, commander of Company C.

Spc. Hess was a study in contrasts who loved a challenge. He had a warrior's spirit and was thrilled at the chance to serve his county, his parents said from their home in Marysville. He also was content to look for his muse in various forms of art, including glass-blowing, photography and poetry. It was this balance that people will remember most about the 26-year-old who was critically injured Nov. 11 in Ta'Meem, Iraq, when an IED detonated near his combat patrol.

A three-year veteran in the U.S. Army, Hess spent more than a year in Korea as well as time in Germany, always looking for an overseas assignment, Bill and Tammy Hess said. They knew their son was on his way to Kuwait the last time they spoke with him in October, and they suspected he had been deployed to Iraq as part of a tank unit when they didn’t hear from him for several weeks. After his injury, Hess was flown back to the United States and treated for several weeks at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. His parents, as well as his six brothers and one sister, were flown there to be with him.

"None of us wanted to see him hurt like that," Bill Hess said. "But one of the greatest blessings in my life was that we were able to say goodbye."

Hess was an avid wrestler from the time he was young, and news of his death circulated at Lake Stevens High School, where he attended until 1999. "He was a strong-willed, independent young man with a unique sense of humor," the Lake Stevens wrestling coaches said in a statement. "The Lake Stevens wrestling community today feels a strong sense of loss."

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Have Every Right To Dream Heroic Dreams.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.

House of Jerky Supports Our Troops! (15% discount!)

2007-01-07T14:18:00.001-06:00

House of Jerky Supports Our Troops!

http://www.houseofjerky.net/troops.html

Because this is about support, we are offering an opportunity for you to send jerky to a soldier. We give a 15% discount on all orders shipped to Military APO/FPO addresses. If you would like to share in supporting our soldiers, please email a letter of support and encouragement to forasoldier@houseofjerky.net Your letter will be printed and enclosed with your shipment. Many or our soldiers are unable to respond but we encourage you to include your address or email address.

"Want to send jerky to your favorite person overseas? Don't worry about shipping costs! We'll cover that! Just make sure you give the full shipping address and we'll get it there!
House of Jerky® gives a 15% Military Discount on all orders shipped to APO/FPO addresses and all Military Base addresses. Free shipping. Use coupon code supporttroops when you order from the Jerky Shop."

--  "Wednesday Hero"  < -- Google It

FREE Countdown Homepage to count down the days until your Soldier comes home.

2007-01-07T14:07:00.000-06:00

http://www.countdownhomepage.com/

Stop marking off days on the calendar!
Get a FREE Countdown Homepage that counts down the days until your friend or loved one returns from deployment, extended training or relocation to another part of the world.

CountdownHomepage.com is was designed by a military spouse. Getting a countdown homepage is simply a matter of registering, logging in, editing some information in a template and clicking save. Then just set the homepage as the default homepage in your browser and each time you get on the internet or hit the home button in your browser you see the new number of days remaining. View a Sample Countdown Homepage

Each Countdown Homepage comes complete with:

Google search
Count down until your friend or loved one comes home
Count up since your friend or loved one left
The option to upload a photo
The option to add up to 10 commonly used links
The option to add a link to your blog and email
A calendar
and more...

--  "Wednesday Hero"  < -- Google It

Amazon Friday Sale - Army scrapbook & Care Pkg Items!

2007-01-05T10:28:00.000-06:00

Amazon's Friday Sale - Check out today's items that are on sale only until midnight EST tonight!

Here's a few items that I hand-picked to share with you. The wok kit would be nice for a care package to a soldier who cooks.
I know mine requested a set of pots & pans while in Iraq and a hot plate and he said they were used a lot.

Army Scrapbook $16.99

Kitchen Hand Lotion and Antibacterial Hand Wash in Wok $16 (Reg. $30) + FREE shipping
Product Features

Great gift of Wasabi Green Tea Scented Lotion and Handwash
Beautifully presented in non-stick flat bottom wok
Lotion and Antibacterial Hand Wash 13.5 oz. Each
Add a splash of color to the kitchen!
Antibacterial Hand Wash is tough on germs and leaves a light fresh scent

HOOAH! Soldier Fuel Energy Bars, Apple Cinnamon, 2.29-Ounce Bars (Pack of 15) $13.99 (Reg. $29.85) + FREE shipping

--  "Wednesday Hero"  < -- Google It

Wednesday Hero - Sgt. Brent Dunkleberger

2007-01-03T08:29:00.000-06:00

This weeks hero was submitted by Jimbailoni.

Sgt. Brent Dunkleberger
29 years old from New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania
1st Calvary Division, 4th Brigade Combat Team
December 11, 2006

Sgt. Dunkleberger was on his second tour of duty in Iraq when he was killed by an RPG when his convoy was attacked while on a security mission.

"We can't put into words right now the grief we feel, but we can put into words how proud we are of Brent. He chose to serve our country and give his life for what he believed in," said William Dunkleberger, Brent's father. "we thank the community for the outpouring of support and ask everyone to continue to pray for us. We also ask the media to respect our privacy during this very difficult time."

Sgt. Dunkleberger graduated high school in 1996 and enlisted in the United States Army in 2003 and became a tank driver for the 1st Calvary Division, 4th Brigade Combat Team.

He is survived by his wife and four children.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Have Every Right To Dream Heroic Dreams.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.

Video Tribute to Veterans - "Home"

2006-12-29T12:22:00.000-06:00

Here's a video that was put together to honor our country's heroes who fight for our freedoms. It's a set of various soldier photos set to Daughtry's song called "Home". I got his new cd for Christmas from my soldier and love it. ;) Click here to try it out!

Lyrics to "Home":

I'm staring out into the night,
Trying to hide the pain.
I'm going to the place where love
And feeling good don't ever cost a thing.
And the pain you feel's a different kind of pain.

I'm going home,
Back to the place where I belong,
And where your love has always been enough for me.
I'm not running from.
No, I think you got me all wrong.
I don't regret this life I chose for me.
But these places and these faces are getting old
So I'm going home.
Well I'm going home.

The miles are getting longer, it seems,
The closer I get to you.
I've not always been the best man or friend for you.
But your love, remains true.
And I don't know why.
You always seem to give me another try.

So I'm going home,
Back to the place where I belong,
And where your love has always been enough for me.
I'm not running from.
No, I think you got me all wrong.
I don't regret this life I chose for me.
But these places and these faces are getting old.

Be careful what you wish for,
'Cause you just might get it all.
You just might get it all,
And then some you don't want.
Be careful what you wish for,
'Cause you just might get it all.
You just might get it all, yeah.

Oh, well I'm going home,
Back to the place where I belong,
And where your love has always been enough for me.
I'm not running from.
No, I think you got me all wrong.
I don't regret this life I chose for me.
But these places and these faces are getting old.
I said these places and these faces are getting old.
So I'm going home.
I'm going home.

Wednesday Hero - Parents of Soldiers

2006-12-27T10:30:00.000-06:00

Here's today's 'Wednesday Hero' Blogroll post. :)

Every once and awhile I'll do a Wednesday Hero that doesn't profile a single soldier. Sometimes it's been two or three from the same unit, sometimes it's been an entire group of soldiers like the Navajo Code Talkers. I even did an organization once, Operation Iraqi Children. This weeks Wednesday Hero is one of those sometimes. This weeks Wednesday Heroes are the parents of soldiers.

These people sacrifice just as much, if not more, than the soldiers themselves. They, in many cases, are having their babies leave home for the first time in their lives. While most parents only have to adjust to them moving a few miles away or going off to college, these Blue Star Parents have to watch their children go off to a very dangerous situation and can only hope and pray that everything will turn out okay. I don't have children of my own, so I can't even imagine what that is like. We have a few Blue Star Parents in the blogroll, so to them, and every parent of a Hero, I tell you we all stand with and support you and your family.There's a site that everyone should check out if they haven't already. Blue Star Mothers Of America.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.

We Have Every Right To Dream Heroic Dreams.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.

Today's Amazon Friday Sale is full of lots of items for that special soldier in your life as well as yourself!

2006-12-22T15:05:00.000-06:00

Today's Amazon Friday Sale is full of lots of items for that special soldier in your life as well as yourself! Prices are only good until Midnight tonight (Eastern time).
Christy

Care Package Items
Pampers Kandoo Foaming Handsoap, Funny Berry Scent, case of 6 $14.99 (Reg. $17.23) & FREE Shipping
Pampers Kandoo Wipes Refills, Jungle Fruits Scent, Case of 6 - 100 Count Packages (600 Wipes) $19.99 (Reg. $24.20) & FREE Shipping
HOOAH! Soldier Fuel Energy Bars, Apple Cinnamon (Pack of 15) $13.99 (Reg. $29.85) & FREE Shipping
HoMedics 4-Piece Aroma Sampler Set $1.77!!! (Reg. $15) & FREE Shipping -- covers up Iraq smell (hopefully) hehe
Wonka Laffy Taffy 24-Count Boxes (Pack of 2) $17 (Reg. $22.36) & FREE Shipping
Clifford Crunch Cereal - Pack of 6 - $9 (Reg. $26.94) & FREE Shipping
Slim Jim Teriyaki Jerky, 1.8-Ounce Unit (Pack of 6) $10 (Reg. $17.94) & FREE Shipping
Invicta Watch Repair Kit $19.99 (Reg. $59.99) & FREE Shipping
West Bend 82306 Stir Crazy 6-Quart Popcorn Popper $27.99 (Reg. $39.99) & FREE Shipping --- Would be awesome for those with no access to microwave!
Insta-bench 6-Seater $42.99 (Reg. $89.99) & FREE Shipping --- GREAT for your deployed soldiers & his/her buddies!!!
Gerber Suspension Butterfly Opening Multi-Plier, and Sheath $24.94 (Reg. $46) & FREE Shipping

Pamper Yourself!
Creating Keepsakes Happy Holidays Album Scrapbook Kit $29.99
Relaxing Overnight Body Cream And Mint Lip Nutrition $8 (Reg. $9.99) & FREE Shipping
eb5 Facial Gift Set
Rachel Perry Calendula-Cucumber Oil Free Moisturizer, Sunblock SPF 15 with Echinacea $13 (Reg. $17.95) & FREE Shipping
HoMedics 4-Piece Aroma Sampler Set $1.77!!! (Reg. $15) & FREE Shipping

For that Special Soldier
Pacific Outdoors Elite Rifle Rest $34.99 (Reg. $99.99) & FREE shipping
Milwaukee 6546-6 2.4-Volt Ni-Cad Cordless Screwdriver with 3-Piece Bit Set $78.64 (Reg. $155) & FREE Shipping
Braun Cruzer3 Shaver with Free Gillette Fusion Manual Razor $49.13 (Reg. $59.99) & FREE Shipping

Variflex 14' Band Trampoline $189.99 (Reg. $299.99) & FREE Shipping

Wednesday Hero - Sgt. Roy A. Wood

2006-12-20T10:40:00.000-06:00

A new edition to the armyngntcfamily blog is a feature we'll post every Wednesday to honor a hero - a fallen United States Soldier - courtesy of the author(s) of this blog. All politics aside, let's just focus on the importance of honoring our soldiers - especially those who have given their precious lives for our Freedom! May God Bless their families.

Sgt. Roy A. Wood
47 years old from Alva, Florida
ODA 2092, Company C, 3rd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne)
January 26, 2005

Sgt. Roy A. Wood, a Special Forces medical sergeant, was fatally injured when the vehicle he was riding in was involved in a traffic accident near Kabul, Afghanistan, during a return convoy from Qalat to Bagram Air Base.

His 24-year military career with the Army Reserve and Army National Guard was distinguished and unique. After receiving a commission as a second lieutenant in 1979, he was first assigned to the Army Reserve’s 421st Quartermaster Company (Light Airdrop Supply).

While assigned to the 421st, he received training as a quartermaster officer, a parachute rigger, and participated in both basic airborne and jumpmaster courses.

In January 1982, he left the 421st to begin an association with U.S. Army Special Forces that would last until, and beyond, his death.

His first SF assignment was to the Army Reserve's 11th Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Fort Meade, Md., where he served in the 3rd Battalion’s Company A as the detachment executive officer for Operational Detachment-A 1175.

In May 1983, he became Detachment Commander for ODA 1175 after returning from the Special Forces Detachment Officer Qualification Course.

In October 1984, he left ODA 1175 to become the Company Logistics Officer.

He served in a variety of positions at the 11th SFG over the next 11 years, including operations officer and support company commander.

After four years at USSOCOM, he served a year with the Army Reserve’s 73rd Field Hospital in St. Petersburg, Fla., before switching from the Reserve to the Army National Guard and renewing his association with Special Forces.

He was assigned to 3rd Bn., 20th SFG in December 2001, where he served for a year as the Battalion Surgeon, supervising medical coverage of three Special Forces companies and one support company.

In December 2002, he resigned his commission to become a Special Forces medical sergeant on Operational Detachment-A 2092, Co. C, 3rd Bn., 20th SFG.

He, with ODA 2092, was mobilized in July 2003 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

At the time of his death, he was pending appointment as a Special Forces warrant officer, a position in which he would have served his team as an assistant detachment commander.

During his service, he received the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Reserve Achievement Medal with Silver Hourglass device, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Basic Parachutist badge, the Parachute Rigger badge, the Ranger tab and the Special Forces tab.

Sgt. Roy Wood leaves behind a wife and two children.

These brave men and women have given their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Have Every Right To Dream Heroic Dreams.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.

Blogs Partcipating In Wednesday Hero

Right-Wing & Right Minded
Hooah Wife & Friends
Yankee Mom
Bear Creek Ledger
Mail Call! Supporting The Troops
Yeah, Right, Whatever
CrosSwords
Gazing At The Flag
Gawfer
Ohio Military Reserve
DeMediacratic Nation
My Point
A Day In The Life Of.....
Blue Star Chronicles
Prying1
Pet's Garden Blog
Pictures From My World
Freedom, GUNZ, Glory and EBYJO
Gunz Up
Say No To Politically Correct B.S.
Did You Ever Get The Feeling
A Rose By Any Other Name
My Weekly Thoughts
Rightwing Guy
Trying My Best To Support The Troops
American And Proud
Maryannaville
Not Ready For My Burqua
Perry Nelson's Website
A Fresh Start
Right On!
Echo9er
Befuddled
Potpourri
Conservative Cowboy
Petrus
Pettifog
Tanker Brothers
Chicagoray
Gop3
ArmyNGntcfamily
Soldiers' Angels New York
My Republican Blog

“The Soldiers’ Night Before Christmas” - book for kids w/deployed soldier

2006-12-14T10:45:00.000-06:00

Deployed Christmas: Book, traditions help children cope with parents away at holiday

By Lynn Taylor Rick, Journal Staff Writer

When Dodie Heinrich reads “The Soldiers’ Night Before Christmas” to her two young sons, they ask a lot of questions about their deployed father, Fred Heinrich.

Five-year-old Connor is especially interested to see that the soldiers slept on cots and all in the same tent. He loves it when Sergeant McClaus delivers the soldiers presents and then flies away (avoiding the military’s radar) in his flying jeep.

Dodie bought the book at Ellsworth Air Force Base and believes it’s been a big help in comforting Connor and 1-year-old Brennen. In a way, the book gives Connor a vehicle to ask the questions he didn’t know how to ask, she says.

Fred Heinrich is currently in Texas, training for a deployment to Afghanistan with the 235th Military Police Company of the South Dakota National Guard. He will be home for five days at Christmas and then he’ll be deployed until 2008. It’s his second deployment, but with his youngest son so little, Dodie feels the stress of the deployment more this time.

“I’m afraid Brennen might not even go to him. … I’m afraid he won’t even know Daddy at all,” she said.

Those fears will likely be felt by others here in the Black Hills, and throughout the nation this Christmas, with thousands of United States troops currently deployed. In some cases, only one parent is deployed during the holidays. In other cases, both are.

So how do the families at home ensure that the children have the best holiday possible?

Angela Winchester, of the Family Member Program at Ellsworth Air Force Base, said the military has various programs to help families throughout deployments. But there are plenty of things families can do at home to help kids deal with the separation.

Here are suggestions for easing the stress and anxiety of deployment during the holidays:

- Winchester said the first step for families is addressing the holidays before deployment. Talk as a family about where Mom or Dad will be and how the family will celebrate the holiday.

- At home, follow the family’s holiday traditions as closely as possible. If the tree always goes up Dec. 15, put up a tree on schedule. “That provides some security and comfort for the child,” Winchester said.

- Before leaving, the deploying parent can record herself reading a favorite Christmas children’s book. Then, during the holidays, the kids can listen to it. A deployed parent can also record the book and ship the recording home.

- A deployed parent can send photographs of their living quarters, preferably decorated for the holidays. Even better, have the children send decorations and then take a photograph of the living quarters decorated with them. “They have some connectedness then. … The security that Mom and Dad are OK,” Winchester said. “It’s that the children know that the parent has a secure living arrangement in the deployed location.”

- When it comes to the school holiday programs, ask the schools if family friends and grandparents can attend. That softens the blow for the child when Mom or Dad can’t be there. “That validates the child’s participation in the program,” Winchester said.

For Dodie Heinrich, the holiday will be less difficult this year because her husband can be home for a few days. But the rest of the year and next holiday, she expects her children to face plenty of separation anxiety.

She tries to ease the sadness by giving the boys plenty of mommy time. And that often manifests itself as snuggling up with a good book. Their favorite right now is “The Soldiers’ Night Before Christmas.”

Where can I get the book?

The book “The Soldiers’ Night Before Christmas” is written by Christine Ford and Trish Holland. It is available at Borders or Waldenbooks in Rapid City. Inspired by the famous Christmas poem by Clement Clarke Moore, the book tells the tale of some homesick soldiers serving in the Middle East.

Where can families find help?

Military families with deployed members can call the Military OneSource at 1-800-342-9647 for information, educational material and general assistance.

Back up and Running!

2006-12-11T17:54:00.000-06:00

Hello!
ArmyNGfamily is now back open! :-)

What's different?
*A new moderator was added to help me moderate the group as it's been changed from unmoderated to moderated. Please welcome Crystal (cmcginne) to moderator status!

*The name & link of our group was changed to armyNGfamily rather than armyNGntcfamily. Please update your bookmarks, email contact list, and email filters.

*Members with email addresses that were "hard bouncing" (a.k.a. no longer active) have been removed.

*Members with email addresses that were "soft bouncing" (email ups & downs) were sent a reactivation notice. If they continue to bounce, they also will be removed so make sure yours isn't bouncing.

*Some messages such as forwarded jokes & such were deleted since we're in the 30,000 message range. This will continue until I'm finished.

* Attachments have been turned off so unfortunately that means no more forwarded emails. If you'd like to share something that has been forwarded to you, you'll have to copy and paste it into a new email message or post. Please try to keep it military related.

It's unnecessary to send virus warnings to the group since everyone is supposed to be keeping their virus scanner updated & running it frequently. It's also unnecessary to send urban legends to the
group. Check out snopes.com if you don't know what urban legends are.
Your participation in the group is required if this is going to be a *support group* for military families.

Watch for future contests and prizes! (Rules and restrictions will apply). Coming soon!

Down for Maintenance

2006-12-05T15:49:00.000-06:00

Hello! This is a message from your friendly neighborhood group owner , Christy, to let you know that the group will be closed for maintenance until Friday. If it turns out to be a little longer I will let you all know.

There's some tweaking to be done and changes to be made to make the group more user friendly and helpful. Every once in a while things get mundane around here and need to be changed up a little to keep the group interesting yet a resource for comfort and companionship for those faced with a deployment.

When the group opens back up, we look forward to "seeing" you all again!

***In the meantime, if you haven't figured out what to send your soldier for Christmas, send him/her an Amazon.com gift certificate that can be used anytime! (It can be emailed & they can pick out what they need!)***

SpouseBUZZ

2006-10-24T11:29:00.000-05:00

Our latest find on the world wide web is SpouseBUZZ that's brought to you by military.com. Check it out!

SpouseBUZZ is your virtual Family Support Group, where we can celebrate and embrace the tie that binds us all -- military service. This blog exists because of you. We have authors and contributors to keep the conversation going here, but we need you to become an active participant. Submit your comments, questions and suggestions for topics you would like to see our authors address. SpouseBUZZ will make you think, make you laugh and make you cry. Most of all, we hope you feel instantly connected to the thousands of other spouses with whom you share a common experience.

Military Respect

2006-10-18T09:33:00.000-05:00

It's always nice to hear/read about people supporting our military & their families. Today's "two thumbs up" comes from a bluemooncafe blogger giving an account of his personal experience of shopping at Lowe's & Home Depot (both of which are supportive of our military!).

I don't know about the rest of my old time buddies here in AM, but every so often, I overload on the disrespect shown for our military men and women..

Of late though, I have begun to see an undercurrent of miltiary respect, for those fighting for our freedoms.

In less than a month, and I must confess it happened while shopping at Home Depot and Lowes-I have been amazed at the outpouring of support for our troops.

To make it clear, I carry a wallet; Marine style with emblem emblazoned in the middle and a picture of our Marine son on the opposite side. The first time, this happened, a young Home Depot, cashier noticed the emblem and asked if I was in the military...

Click here to read more of this post.
To the bluemooncafe Air Force veteran,
we thank you and your sons for serving our country.

Return to real life can be hardest part

2006-10-17T23:10:00.000-05:00

Link to entire article

After a yearlong deployment in Afghanistan, Sgt. John Wilder thought coming home would be easy. Rocket attacks would no longer keep him awake at night, and his back injury, caused by a piece of rocket that knocked him onto the dry, rocky ground, would heal with a doctor's care, he thought. He and his wife, Candy, planned a romantic getaway to the Caribbean.

"Everything has changed at home," he said. "We're so close to different worlds, different directions; it's unbelievable."

"Researchers are finding that National Guard and Reserve soldiers in combat support roles are showing higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder than front-line troops."

Emotional scars from Iraq getting difficult to ignore

2006-10-17T21:49:00.000-05:00

"PTSD is an increasingly common disability.

More than one-third of the returning Iraq and Afghanistan vets seek treatment for combat-related disorders, a number far larger than the Veterans Administration anticipated."

""Combat equals trauma," said Eric Kettenring, counselor at the Missoula Vet Center.

The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research found that PTSD frequently leads to aggressive behavior, alcohol abuse and marital problems.

"The yearly divorce rate among U.S. Army soldiers doubled between 2001 and 2003," said Kettenring. "Among officers, it tripled."

Treatment may take six months to a year for those with moderate damage who seek help early, said Michael Mason, chief counselor at the Center for Mental Health (formerly Golden Triangle Community Mental Health).

"More severe cases may take much longer," he said. "We're still working with Vietnam vets, many of whom have been in treatment most of their adult lives.""

Link to entire article

Some helpful military links

2006-06-14T12:16:00.000-05:00

Whether you are going through a deployment or not here are some sites worth checking out.
Military Benefits & Resources (Army)
Military.com (Lots of info here!)
MilitaryOneSource

The Sands of Christmas

2005-12-25T18:08:00.000-06:00

The Sands of Christmas

I had no Christmas spirit when I breathed a weary sigh,
and looked across the table where the bills were piled too high.
The laundry wasn't finished and the car I had to fix,
My stocks were down another point, the Dolphins lost by six.

And so with only minutes till my son got home from school
I gave up on the drudgery and grabbed a wooden stool.
The burdens that I carried were about all I could take,
and so I flipped the TV on to catch a little break.

I came upon a desert scene in shades of tan and rust,
No snowflakes hung upon the wind, just clouds of swirling dust.
And where the reindeer should have stood before a laden sleigh,
eight hummers ran a column right behind an M1A.

A group of boys walked past the tank, not one was past his teens,
Their eyes were hard as polished flint, their faces drawn and lean.
They walked the street in armor with their rifles shouldered tight,
their dearest wish for Christmas, just to have a silent night.
Soldiers in sand
Other soldiers gathered, hunkered down against the wind,
To share a scrap of mail and dreams of going home again.
There wasn't much at all to put their lonely hearts at ease,
They had no Christmas turkey, just a pack of MREs.

They didn't have a garland or a stocking I could see,
They didn't need an ornament-- they lacked a Christmas Tree.
They didn’t have a present even though it was tradition,
the only boxes I could see were labled "ammunition."

I felt a little tug and found my son now by my side,
He asked me what it was I feared, and why it was I cried.
I swept him up into my arms and held him oh so near
and kissed him on the forehead as I whispered in his ear.

There’s nothing wrong my little son, for safe we sleep tonight,
our heroes stand on foreign land to give us all the right,
to worry on the things in life that mean nothing at all,
instead of wondering if we will be the next to fall.

He looked at me as children do and said its always right,
to thank the ones who help us and perhaps that we should write.
And so we pushed aside the bills and sat to draft a note,
to thank the many far from home, and this is what we wrote:

God Bless You all and keep you safe, and speed your way back home.
Remember that we love you so, and that you’re not alone.
The gift you give you share with all, a present every day,
You give the gift of liberty and that we can’t repay.

I love stories like this!

2005-12-22T09:20:00.000-06:00

Dallas Man Gives Away $5,000 to Servicemen

Dec 22, 6:53 AM (ET)

KILLEEN, Texas (AP) - A real-estate developer carrying a sign that read "grateful citizen" passed out $5,000 in $20 bills Wednesday to members of the military and their families.

"I just want to say thank you for your service," Jim Johnson, of Dallas, told the recipients as he shook their hands in a Wal-Mart store in Killeen. "We're safe and secure because of you."

Johnson said in a story in Thursday's Killeen Daily Herald that he and his son Matt drove from Dallas with the hope of meeting as many soldiers as possible. He said Killeen, which is home to Fort Hood, seemed like an obvious choice for finding soldiers and their families.

Killeen is about 130 miles southwest of Dallas.

Johnson held a sign that read, "Grateful citizen. You make my life possible."

Store owners gave him permission to come inside to hand out the money after he had to vacate his post on a corner near the shopping center. He handed out the money in about three hours.

At one point, he shook the hand of a timid military wife, reached into his pocket and found he was out of money, the newspaper reported. His son gave his father the last $20 bill.

Johnson said he was just trying to show some gratitude.

"We all have ways to give back to these families that don't complain and serve," Johnson said. "It's a tough life, and I'm so grateful for what they do."

He promised to come back next year and bring some friends along.

Thank a Soldier Week: Dec. 19-25

2005-12-18T14:04:00.000-06:00

http://www.thankasoldierweek.com

Army considering combat chewing gum

2005-11-12T18:48:00.000-06:00

Click here to view source

Scientists working to make gum fight bacteria, keep flavor...

NASHVILLE, Tennessee (AP) -- Brushing three times a day is a tough task, especially if you're roughing it in the mountains of Afghanistan or in the Iraqi desert.

So goes the logic behind a recent endeavor by Army and civilian scientists -- combat gum for soldiers too busy to brush.

The gum, described at the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists convention this week in Nashville, would contain a special bacteria-fighting agent to prevent plaque, cavities and gum disease.

Soldiers in the field often lack the necessary time and means to brush and floss. Compounding the problem is the stress of combat, which can encourage bacterial growth in the mouth, said Col. Dennis Runyan, commander of the Army Dental and Trauma Research Detachment in Great Lakes, Illinois.

Gum was considered an ideal solution because the Army already issues gum to soldiers in their field rations.

Dr. Patrick DeLuca, a University of Kentucky drug product developer, is working to perfect the prototype, trying to make it taste better and ensure that it retains its flavor and bacteria-fighting ability for 30 minutes to an hour.

Once the development stage is complete sometime within the next year, scientists will begin testing the gum, possibly with Army units.

If the Army decides to pursue the idea, it will probably team up with a manufacturer to produce the gum. The Army has been talking to companies like chewing gum giant Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co., Runyan said.

Runyan said he hopes to see a finished product available within four years.

America Honors Veterans

2005-11-11T21:16:00.000-06:00

FOXNews.com Photo Essay

How to Welcome Your Beloved Soldier Home and Adjust to Life Together Again

2005-10-31T14:19:00.000-06:00

Link to article

Laura anxiously anticipates the return of her husband Dan. What will it be like and what should she do? After all, he is not returning from a successful business trip or golf weekend. He is coming back from war. Should she arrange a romantic just-for-the-two-of-us event or a family reunion? This is the first homecoming experience in their young marriage. It has been over a year since Dan left. Little Maja was born 3 months ago and Dan has yet to meet his new baby girl. Laura, once shy, dependent and overweight turned into self-reliant and confident woman. She joined the gym, lost weight and signed up for computer classes. Even though Laura missed Dan terribly, she adapted to being a military wife. They had kept each other up to date through e-mail and phone calls. Dan will be surprised to find how much has changed since he left. Click here to read more...

National Guard readiness eroded by Iraq: report

2005-10-20T16:27:00.000-05:00

Link to article

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. National Guard units are under-equipped and increasingly unready to help in domestic disaster relief because essential gear is left behind after service in Iraq and Afghanistan, a congressional report said on Thursday.

Heavy demand

A Christian Soldier's View on the War in Iraq

2005-10-15T12:36:00.000-05:00

A View from a Christian Soldier
Written by one of our member's husbands.

Walmart.com offers shipping to APO for military for Holidays

2005-10-13T17:08:00.000-05:00

APO/FPO Shipping

At Walmart.com, you'll find thousands of gifts and useful items for family and friends with APO/FPO addresses. Choose from portable audio electronics, top toys, video games, movies and music.

You'll also find photo cards for your favorite memories, gift baskets filled with the flavors of home, personalized military rings, shopping cards, phone cards and so much more.

Tips for Sending Gifts

We cannot send some items to APO/FPO addresses. This is usually noted when you click "See estimated arrival date" on the item page.
See important APO/FPO shipping details

Walmart.com sends warmest holiday wishes to you and your loved ones.

Fall Cleaning Chore Checklist

2005-10-05T12:36:00.000-05:00

Fall Cleaning Chore Checklist
by Cynthia Townley Ewer
Editor, OrganizedHome.Com

It's Autumn. Pumpkins glow in golden fields. Shorter days, crisp mornings signal winter's approach. Can the holidays be far behind?

Use Autumn's brisk and breezy days to conquer deep-cleaning chores for aclean and comfortable winter home.

out and about:

Time to come inside for winter! Outside the house, tend to these autumn chores:

Clean and store patio furniture, umbrellas, children's summer toys.
Touch up paint on trim, railings and decks. Use a wire brush to remove flaking paint; prime bare wood first.
Check caulk around windows and doors. Follow manufacturer's recommendations to re-caulk if needed.
Inspect external doors and garage doors. Do they close tightly? Install weather-stripping, door thresholds if needed.
Wash exterior windows.
Drain and store garden hoses. Install insulating covers on exterior spigots. In hard-freeze areas, have sprinkler systems blown free of water.
Check gutters and downspouts. Clear of debris if necessary. In cold-weather areas, consider installing heating cable to prevent ice dams.
Have chimneys and flues inspected and cleaned if necessary.

the inside story:

Autumn's the time for "spring cleaning". Deep clean now to take advantage of good weather. Face the coming of winter and the approaching holidays with a clean and comfortable home.

Learn how to clean efficiently! Check our Clean Sweep Guide for more information on how to clean fast and furious.

Focus on public rooms: living room, family room, entryway, guest bath.
Clean from top to bottom. Vacuum drapes and window treatments. Clean window sills and window wells. Vacuum baseboards andcorners.
Vacuum upholstered furniture, or have professionally cleaned if needed. Move furniture and vacuum beneath and behind it.
Wash interior windows.
Turn mattresses front-to-back and end-to-end to equalize wear.
Launder or clean all bedding: mattress pads, pillows, duvets, blankets, comforters. Tuck the family into a warm and cozy winter bed.
Schedule professional carpet cleaning early this month! Warm October afternoons speed carpet drying. Carpet cleaning firms get busy by the end of October, so schedule now for best service.
Prepare the kitchen for holiday cooking. Clean and organized kitchen cabinets, paying particular attention to baking supplies, pans and equipment.
Clear kitchen counters of all appliances not used within the last week. Clear counters look cleaner--and provide more room for holiday cooking.
Pull refrigerator away from the wall, and vacuum the condenser coils. For bottom-mounted coils, use a long, narrow brush to clean coils of dust and debris.
Wash light-diffusing bowls from light fixtures.
Inspect each appliance. Does it need supplies? Stock up on softener salt now, and avoid staggering over icy sidewalks with heavy bags.
Check and empty the central vacuum's collection area.
Clean electronic air cleaner elements monthly for most efficient operation. Wash them in an empty dishwasher (consult manual for specific product recommendations).
Clean or replace humidifier elements before the heating season begins.
Inspect washer hoses for bulges, cracks or splits. Replace them every other year.
Check dryer exhaust tube and vent for built-up lint, debris or birds' nests! Make sure the exterior vent door closes tightly when not in use.
Schedule fall furnace inspections now. Don't wait for the first cold night!
Buy a winter's supply of furnace filters. Change filters monthly for maximum energy savings and indoor comfort. When the right filter is on hand, it's an easy job!
Drain sediment from hot water heaters.

Bush Considers Military Role in Flu Fight

2005-10-04T11:57:00.000-05:00

Bush Considers Military Role in Flu Fight
Email this Story

Oct 4, 12:38 PM (ET)

By JENNIFER LOVEN

(AP) President Bush speaks to reporters in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, Tuesday,...
Full Image

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush, increasingly concerned about a possible avian flu pandemic, revealed Tuesday that any part of the country where the virus breaks out could likely be quarantined and that he is considering using the military to enforce it.

"The best way to deal with a pandemic is to isolate it and keep it isolated in the region in which it begins," he said during a wide-ranging Rose Garden news conference.

The president was asked if his recent talk of giving the military the lead in responding to large natural disasters such as Hurricane Katrina and other catastrophes was in part the result of his concerns that state and local personnel aren't up to the task of a flu outbreak.

"Yes," he replied.

After the bungled initial federal response to Katrina, Bush suggested putting the Pentagon in charge of search-and-rescue efforts in times of a major terrorist attack or similarly catastrophic natural disaster. He has argued that the armed forces have the ability to quickly mobilize the equipment, manpower and communications capabilities needed in times of crisis.

But such a shift could require a change in law, and some in Congress and the states worry it would increase the power of the federal government at the expense of local control.

Bush made clear that the potential for an outbreak of avian flu is much on his mind, and has him talking with "as many (world) leaders as I could find" and reading a book on the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic that killed 40 million and consulting staff and experts.

"I have thought through the scenarios of what an avian flu outbreak could mean," he said.

He acknowledged that a quarantine - an idea sure to alarm many in the public - is no small thing for the government to undertake and that enforcing it would be tricky.

"It's one thing to shut down airplanes," Bush said. "It's another thing to prevent people from coming in to get exposed to the avian flu."

He urged Congress to give him the ability to use the military, if needed.

"I think the president ought to have all ... assets on the table to be able to deal with something this significant," he said.

Bush also said he has been urging world leaders to improve reporting on outbreaks of the virus, and exploring how to speed the production of a spray, now in limited supply, that "can maybe help arrest the spread of the disease."

"One of the issues is how do we encourage the manufacturing capacity of the country, and maybe the world, to be prepared to deal with the outbreak of a pandemic?" he said.

Experts agree there will certainly be another flu pandemic - a new human flu strain that goes global. However, it is unknown when or how bad that global epidemic will be - or whether the H5N1 bird flu strain now circulating in Asian poultry will be its origin.

Just in case, experts are tracking the avian flu, which has swept through poultry populations in large swaths of Asia since 2003, jumped to humans and killed at least 65 people.

Most human cases have been linked to a contact with sick birds, but the World Health Organization has warned the virus could mutate into a form that spreads easily among humans - changing it from a bird virus to a human pandemic flu strain.

Free Healthcare for Vets in Katrina's Path

2005-09-16T10:14:00.000-05:00

Washington, DC - A bill sponsored by Sen. Larry Craig (R-Idaho) to improve the health care of the nation’s veterans was approved by the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. The "Veterans Health Care Act of 2005" now goes to the floor of the Senate for a vote.

"This legislation is important to veterans across the nation," Craig said. "My hope is that we can move forward quickly and get it passed by the Senate before the end of this year."

Among many provisions, Craig’s bill provides free health care for veterans in the area impacted by Hurricane Katrina. That free care would end January 31, 2006. "If Congress determines that there is still a need, we can extend that deadline," Craig said.

Army Planning for 4 More Years in Iraq

2005-08-20T15:21:00.000-05:00

Link to full article

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Army is planning for the possibility of keeping the current number of soldiers in Iraq - well over 100,000 - for four more years, the Army's top general said Saturday.

In an Associated Press interview, Gen. Peter Schoomaker said the Army is prepared for the "worse case" in terms of the required level of troops in Iraq. He said the number could be adjusted lower if called for by slowing the force rotation or by shortening tours for soldiers.

Schoomaker said commanders in Iraq and others who are in the chain of command will decide how many troops will be needed next year and beyond. His responsibility is to provide them, trained and equipped.

About 138,000 U.S. troops, including about 25,000 Marines, are now in Iraq.

Combat Stress Unit Returns to Iraq

2005-08-19T08:10:00.000-05:00

Link to full article

Associated Press | August 19, 2005
BOSTON - Members of the 883rd Medical Company treat the kinds of wounds that can't be seen but are sometimes just as damaging as physical injuries. The "combat stress control" unit, which heads to Iraq on Friday for a second deployment, offers counseling and advice to soldiers who may be suffering from anxiety, depression, insomnia and a host of other psychological problems associated with combat.

The unit, which spent three months in Iraq in 2003, is comprised of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and other mental health workers.

Staff Sgt. Robert Davis, 30, of Newton, a mental health technician, said during his first deployment that he saw many soldiers who had anxiety and trouble sleeping, conditions that were magnified by the mobile nature of the war.

'Tribute to the Troops' Scheduled for 9/11

2005-08-18T11:03:00.000-05:00

America Supports You: 'Tribute to the Troops' Scheduled for 9/11

By Steven Donald Smith
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 18, 2005 – The second annual "Tribute to the Troops" motorcycle ride is scheduled to roll through the American heartland over the Sept. 11 weekend.

The tribute ride, which will include several hundred bikers, is a means to honor servicemembers who gave their lives for freedom and to raise money for local Minnesota and Wisconsin military families who lost loved ones in recent military engagements. The bikers will visit the homes of many these families to pay their respects.

The event will conclude with a benefit concert headlined by Universal South recording artist Rockie Lynne, a Minneapolis resident and former paratrooper with the Army's 82nd Airborne Division.

"We may not personally know the pain of losing a family member in this war, but we want to do something to say a sincere thank you to those who are feeling that loss. " Lynne said. "We are visiting each individual family to acknowledge that their loved one was important to us. "

Event organizer Gregg Schmitt added that "through these efforts we convey our gratefulness and appreciation to all those who have served. "

Last year's ride was an emotional event for many of those who participated. "If you were there, you can understand what a powerful day this was. If you weren't, words cannot describe what a powerful, moving experience it was," Lynne said. "While we can't possibly understand how their families feel and what they have sacrificed, we can empathize and feel for them. "

The 2004 Tribute to the Troops struck a cord with many of the families as well. "Gregg and Rockie are my heroes. When I heard all the motorcycles come down the street, I couldn't believe so many strangers cared so much about the loss of my son," said Mary Herrgott, whose son Pfc. Edward James Herrgott was killed in Iraq.

This year each family will receive a plaque, a letter of thanks, a commemorative flag and a DVD copy of Lynne's original song "Home," a heartfelt personal tribute to a friend killed while on duty, according to a Tribute to the Troops press release. This is not the first time Lynne has written a patriotic song. His previous tune "Red, White and Blue," speaks to the fact that the U. S. military is comprised of individuals from all walks of life, yet when it comes to protecting the nation, they form a selfless and cohesive unit, Lynne said.

This is also not the first event in which Lynne has donated his time to support the troops. Earlier this year Lynne performed at an "America Supports You" salute to the troops concert at the Pentagon. America Supports You is a Defense Department program that spotlights how Americans are supporting the U. S. military.

The 2005 Tribute to the Troops is actually three separate motorcycle rides that cover different parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin. All three routes will converge on Hamel, Minn. , where the benefit concert will take place. The concert will also feature the regional bands The Killer Hayseeds, G. B. Leighton, and Brat Pack Radio. Tickets to the show will be available at the door on the day of the event.

According to a Tribute to the Troops press release, all donations collected at the concert will be given to the Wounded Warriors Hospital Fund, a nonprofit organization that purchases comfort items, such as televisions and computers for military medical facilities.

Related Sites:
Tribute to the Troops
Wounded Warrior Hospital Fund
America Supports You

Time for a Trip to the Commissary

2005-08-16T20:22:00.000-05:00

Commissary sale! Buy in bulk and stay in this winter!

The return of Dollar Days! Commissary customers loved the inaugural “Dollar Days” event in April—and took advantage of the millions of dollars in commissary savings. The deals are back in most commissaries worldwide, just in time for “back to school.” Dollar Days runs through Aug. 24 and hundreds of items throughout the store will feature dollar pricing. “Customers might see two-for-a-dollar deals or perhaps three-for-two-dollars,” said Patrick B. Nixon, chief executive officer and acting director of the Defense Commissary Agency. “Customers should look for the ‘Extra Savings’ signs throughout commissaries to find the deals.”

Troops get another USO visit (kuwait)

2005-08-16T20:17:00.000-05:00

Myers, USO Troupe Visit Troops in Kuwait

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2005 – It was 118 degrees in the shade, and there was precious little of that as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and a troupe of USO performers visited servicemembers here today.

Comedians Colin Quinn, left, and Jeffrey Ross flank Air Force Staff Sgt. Clack in Kuwait Aug. 16 on one of the stops for a USO tour being led by Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Photo by Staff Sgt. D. Myles Cullen, USAF (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers is in the midst of a 10-day trip to assess morale. He and sports personality and model Leeann Tweeden, legendary Chicago Bears running back Gale Sayers, and comedians Jeffrey Ross and Colin Quinn thanked troops for their service and their sacrifices.

Myers and the entertainers have visited Wiesbaden, Germany; Camp Bondsteel in Serbia and Montenegro's Kosovo province; and two bases here. Temperatures on the tour have ranged from cold and rain in Kosovo to crushing heat in Kuwait.

The show has settled into a routine. The general thanks the troops and introduces Leeann Tweeden, who acts as emcee. Tweeden, making her seventh USO trip, including two previously with the chairman, thanks the troops and reassures them that Americans fully support them.

To read the rest of the article, click the link below.

NOTE: View the original version of this web page on DefenseLINK, the official website of the U. S. Department of Defense.

Ancient ruins still stand amid Iraq chaos

2005-08-16T12:56:00.000-05:00

Click to read article

I thought this was an interesting article to read. :-)

U.S. Struggling to Get Soldiers Updated Armor

2005-08-14T21:13:00.000-05:00

Click here to read the full article.

Enlarge This Image

Jim Wilson/The New York Times

Workers assembled body armor made of ceramic plates at ArmorWorks in Tempe, Ariz. Specially treated plates give troops extra protection.

"Free"dom Mailing Labels - Help a Vet

2005-08-09T13:14:00.000-05:00

Order Free Mailing Labels Online

To receive your FREE personalized address labels from the Paralyzed Veterans of America, please fill in the information below: (At this time, we are only able to offer address labels to residents of the United States).

The mailing labels are free, but for as little as $5 you can help a paralyzed veteran!
~ Christy

Mission Statement

The Paralyzed Veterans of America, a congressionally chartered veterans service organization founded in 1946, has developed a unique expertise on a wide variety of issues involving the special needs of our members— veterans of the armed forces who have experienced spinal cord injury or dysfunction.

PVA will use that expertise to be the leading advocate for:

Quality health care for our members,
Research and education addressing spinal cord injury and dysfunction,
Benefits available as a result of our members’ military service,
Civil rights and opportunities which maximize the independence of our members.

To enable PVA to continue to honor this commitment, we must recruit and retain members who have the experience, energy, dedication, and passion necessary to manage the organization and ensure adequate resources to sustain the programs essential for PVA to achieve its mission.

View a PVA Public Service Announcement

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These movies can be viewed with RealPlayer. Click here to get your copy

Army to Implement Virtual Family Readiness Groups

2005-08-05T16:00:00.000-05:00

Army to Implement Virtual Family Readiness Groups

By Margaret McKenzie
Special to American Forces Press Service

ALEXANDRIA, Va. , Aug. 5, 2005 – An Army program on the World Wide Web to support and improve how information is passed to families when soldiers are deployed will make its debut Oct. 1.

Army officials said they are trying to meet the needs of today's Army Expeditionary Force by improving the methods by which soldiers communicate with their families.

"The virtual Family Readiness Group is designed to replicate the major components of FRGs, but in a virtual context," said Jay M. Burcham, chief of the Deployment and Mobilization Readiness division for the Family Programs directorate at U. S. Army Community and Family Support Center here. "This Web system is not just a Web site," he said. "Soldiers downrange in Iraq, Korea or wherever they are deployed will be able to communicate with families around the world by logging into this system. The virtual Family Readiness Group Web system will use technology to move today's FRGs into the 21st century to meet the demands of the Army's Expeditionary Force. "

The initiative began in June 2004 when CFSC, in support of the 2nd Infantry Division in Korea, created a virtual FRG to reach out to families of soldiers who would be deployed. Most soldiers deploy as individual replacements to Korea, which basically is a stable environment and communication with family members is routine, Burcham said.

Prior to the vFRG, the families' need for support was addressed by the 'waiting families' program that Army Community Service operates. Families also received support from their previous unit's physical FRG.

With the war on terrorism things changed. Soldiers were being deployed from Korea to Iraq, making communication with families difficult. And families were reading and seeing stories on the news of bombs going off in areas where their soldiers were. "To ease the added stress placed on soldiers' families, the 2nd Infantry Division provided up-to-date command information as well as the capability to download photos, send newsletters and organize families by location and unit," Burcham said. "This was a new concept to take the physical FRGs and turn them into a virtual context. "

The development and fielding of the vFRG for Korea and Iraq was completed in five weeks by DefenseWeb Technologies in San Diego.

"The overall purpose of the vFRG supporting soldiers deploying to Korea and Iraq was to provide a Web portal for official and unofficial information between the brigade, soldiers, and families," said Tonya Bowers, Army program manager at DefenseWeb Technologies. The brigade now had the means to communicate with the families of deployed soldiers, Bowers added.

Follow-on development built functions to automate the capabilities of today's physical FRGs. These capabilities include instant messaging, forums and discussion groups, post cards, and file and document sharing.

The final phase of the program broadens what was developed for the 2nd Infantry Division, and provides training, outreach and support across all three components of the Army: active, Guard and Reserve. When released for use by units, it will feature a unit vFRG locator, a kids and teens area, a phone tree organization chart, emergency family plans, blogs, a training tracker and metrics for the unit commander to determine the state of family readiness, FRG leader forums content, and more.

The site also will provide a single location for users to obtain news and updates relating to FRGs and their unit. Users will be able to make updates to the phone tree and e-mail distribution list for rear detachment commanders and FRG leaders to use for mass communication to soldiers and families.

Users of the site will first have to register and be authenticated by command-level administrators. This feature is very important to unit commanders concerned with maintaining operational security of the information they provide to families, Burcham said. "After they have been authenticated, users can go into the system, join their unit's virtual FRG, and update the information in their registration file especially if they are changing duty stations," Bowers said.

"There are many benefits to using the vFRG system", he added. "Members of the Army Reserve and the National Guard see this as an answer to the communications issues they have to deal with because they are geographically dispersed. Families of mobilized individual ready reservists will be able to join the vFRG of the unit their soldier is deployed with. "

Members of the National Guard emphasize that they see this as a great way to enhance family readiness, Burcham added. He said it gives them the capability to maintain an FRG and communicate with their FRG members on a year-round basis, rather than just during deployments.

"This vFRG allows them to stay organized throughout the year with a known place where people can log in and communicate without the worry and expense of bringing families into Reserve or Guard headquarters, which could be 100 miles away," Burcham said. "It is not designed to replace the existing physical FRGs, but to enhance them," he noted.

To support the upcoming start of the system, a waiting list area where units can sign up to establish a virtual FRG has been added to The www. armyfrg. org Web site.

(Margaret McKenzie is assigned to U. S. Army Community and Family Support Center public affairs. )

Related Site:
U. S. Army Community and Family Support Center

America Supports You: It's 'HOT' to Help the Troops

2005-08-05T14:35:00.000-05:00

America Supports You: It's 'HOT' to Help the Troops

By Steven Donald Smith
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2005 – According to many servicemembers stationed overseas, it's a great feeling to receive a care package, and it's especially nice when the package contains items that you personally requested.

In March, Kristen Maddox, a 21-year-old college student from Santa Ana, Calif. , launched the nonprofit organization "Helping Our Troops" with that in mind. Her goal is to ship care packages that contain items based solely on troop requests.

"We don't send our favorite items; we send their favorite items," Maddox said.

HOT is made up of a small group of volunteers, mainly Maddox's friends and family, who have doggedly searched for a wide variety of items, including canned sardines, eye goggles and pool cues.

As soon as HOT receives a request from a servicemember, normally via e-mail, the volunteers immediately set out to fill the order, Maddox said. "Once we receive a request, we go shopping. In cases where the items are difficult to find, we continue shopping until we find them," she said.

Some of the requested items have indeed been somewhat difficult to find, but HOT has only failed to deliver on one item thus far.

"We could not find Yakisoba noodles anywhere. We called Asian markets and looked online, but we could not find any," Maddox said. "Other than that, we have been able to find everything, either in stores or online. "

All of the items in the HOT care packages are donated or purchased with donated money, she said.

Maddox said the effort has also received a lot of support from other Southern California organizations.

The American Legion of Newport Beach recently donated $1,500; Soroptimist International of Orange, an organization supporting women in management, awarded HOT the "Outstanding Service Award" at their annual awards dinner, which came with a donation of $500; and the local Rotary Club has raised several thousand dollars in direct contributions and through events such as its Fourth of July celebration, she said.

Maddox got the idea to start the nonprofit after learning that a good friend was on his way back to Iraq. "I came up with the idea for HOT on my 21st birthday, the same day that my friend was deployed to Iraq for his third tour, leaving behind his 6-month-old son," she said.

"It made me want to do something," she said. "I felt it was important to support our troops because they are the ones who are ready at a moment's notice to put their lives on the line to protect us. "

Coincidently, at the same time her friend was deployed, Maddox had been working on a school project about Operation Iraqi Freedom. She was struck by the fact that many of the troops making sacrifices overseas were her own age, she said.

"The reality that it's mostly my generation over there fighting and dying made me want to do more," she said. "They need to know that there are young people their age who care. "

Maddox intends to broaden her work to include veterans outreach. "We have begun working with the veterans hospital in Long Beach in an effort to provide for veterans of all wars," she said.

"We owe our freedom throughout our country's history to the men and women who are willing to step up and fight for it. We should do our part to ensure they know how much we appreciate their sacrifices," she concluded.

Related Sites:
Helping Our Troops
America Supports You

Air Guard troops deployed to Iraq

2005-08-05T08:55:00.000-05:00

Families gather at Ellington Field to say farewell as loved ones brace for their mission

By PEGGY O'HARE
Copyright 2005 Houston Chronicle

Ellington Field was the scene of tears, hugs and American flags Tuesday night as several hundred personnel from the 147th Fighter Wing of the Texas Air National Guard shipped out for Iraq.

The mission, at a time when the Pentagon is considering retiring all of the wing's F-16s, is to provide air support for ground troops. Personnel and pilots are expected to remain in Iraq until the early fall.

The mission's troop commander said the mood Tuesday night was a little anxious.

"You just want to get on the ground," said Lt. Col. David Alexander, who twice has been deployed to Iraq. "I'll just tell them to take care of each other ... to make sure that everybody who gets on the plane comes back."

Alexander said he's confident the mission will prove the value of the fighter wing since it is under consideration for budget cuts.

Some family members who served together in the 147th Fighter Wing will remain at each other's side during the deployment, including a father and daughter from southeast Houston and two brothers from League City.

Senior Airman Leah Saldivar, 20, of Houston, said she has a sense of relief knowing her father will be with her in Iraq. "We're going to be fine," she said confidently. "For me, it's like an adventure. It's a mission. We're going to complete it."

She joined the Texas Air National Guard two years ago, following the lead of her father, Master Sgt. Florencio Saldivar, 49, who has served for 22 years. "We're going to make our family proud," he said, beaming at his daughter.

Velma Saldivar, wife and mother of the father-daughter team, said she has a sense of peace, despite the continuing deaths in Iraq. Eight American troops were killed in a single day, Army and Marine officials said Tuesday, pushing the U.S. military death toll in Iraq past 1,800.

"I don't ignore it," she said of the death toll, "but I try to stay focused and stay positive."

League City brothers Michael and Matthew Roberts also are making the trip together. They appeared calm and composed while saying goodbye to family Tuesday night.

"I'm really proud that they're going to go together. I'm glad they're going to support each other," said their mother, Susan Roberts. "Their dad went to Vietnam and came back. And they'll come back."

Many of the personnel appeared firm and resolute while saying their goodbyes.

"We've got a job to do. I'm going so people can come back," said Tech Sgt. William Roy of Angleton, a father of three.

Tech. Sgt. James Mullinax, of Galena Park, has been sent on missions before, but this one was harder since he got married July 22.

"I have a bigger family now," said Mullinax, embracing his wife and daughters.

President Bush served at Ellington during his days in the Texas Air National Guard.

The Defense Department has recommended the F-16 jets be removed from Ellington Field to cut costs, but community leaders have opposed that move.

The Base Realignment and Closure Commission will make final recommendations to the president Sept. 8.

peggy.ohare@chron.com

Scholarships awarded to children of National Guard members

2005-08-05T08:49:00.000-05:00

Scholarships awarded to children of National Guard members

By Staff

AUGUSTA (July 28): The Maine Sentinel Scholarship Fund, launched a year ago for the children of active-duty members of the Maine National Guard, has given grants totaling nearly $42,000 to 10 college-bound students. The scholarships range from $2,000 to $6,000.

The fund was established in August 2004 through the efforts of the Maine State Bar Association and Michael Knowles, office manager at the Saco law firm of Smith Elliott Smith & Garmey. It was announced at a Statehouse press conference headed by Gov. John Baldacci. Money was raised through donations and activities including an MSBA charity golf tournament.

It is being administered by the Maine Community Foundation to help pay the college expenses of Maine National Guard members called to active duty since Sept. 11, 2001.

In letters seeking contributions, Knowles wrote that “Maine has one of the highest activation rates in the country” of National Guard members being sent to Iraq and elsewhere, and “We all recognize the emotional burden this type of deployment must place on the families.”

Click here to read the rest of the article.

National Guard troops to begin firefighter training

2005-08-05T08:41:00.000-05:00

National Guard troops to begin firefighter training

By SARAH COOKE
Associated Press

HELENA -- Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Thursday declared an emergency for wildfire danger because of current bone-dry conditions and forecasts for continued hot, dry weather, authorizing National Guard pilots to begin training to fight wildfires. "We will pray for rain and prepare for the worst," he said.

Department of Natural Resources Director Mary Sexton and Adj. Gen. Randy Mosley, who heads the Montana National Guard, requested the Guard activation, writing in a memo to Schweitzer that current fire and weather conditions "indicate strong potential for significant wildfire activity" in the state within the next 60 days.

They warned of shortages in "critical resources" like helicopters and ground crews in the next week if fire conditions continue to worsen, which is expected in the next seven to 10 days.

Under the first phase of activation, National Guard helicopter crews will be trained early next week to fight fires in conjunction with regular monthly training, Schweitzer said.

The Guard helicopters, in compliance with federal law, will be deployed only if comparable resources are not available from local, state and commercial sources, he said.

"The fire season is probably going to be over in the next 50 days, but those next 50 days are going to be critical. ... We want to be ready to respond," Schweitzer said.

Starting Aug. 12, the Guard's Blackhawk helicopters will be made available for initial attacks on wildfires in the Helena, Kalispell and Missoula areas, although other areas could be added if necessary, said Col. Brad Livingston, Mosley's chief of staff. The aircraft will also help with larger fires.

More helicopters, as well as Guard troops and other equipment, would be activated under the final phase of mobilization. That, however, will only occur if needed, Livingston said.

"That's when the National Guard would be activated in large numbers, providing additional helicopters ... and hand crews, where people are trained to go out and fight fires," he said.

Livingston stressed the Guard was not being deployed en masse, and that crews would be called out only if needed.

Currently, about 1,300 Guard troops and four helicopters would be available to fight wildfires, he said.

Schweitzer warned of the possibility for a wildfire "blowup" earlier this year, and in March asked the National Guard to return some of Montana's 1,500 Guard troops and aircraft in Iraq and elsewhere for the wildfire season. He claims the Defense Department has turned a deaf ear to his request, although military officials say no state has been left with less than half of its Guard strength and stress that should be enough.

More than a dozen small fires were burning around the state Thursday, the largest being a 300-acre blaze near Philipsburg that was 75 percent contained.

Firefighters continued to mop up hot spots and work toward containment of the lightning-caused Frog Pond fire in southwestern Montana's Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

"This is a blue-collar operation," incident commander Dave Larsen told crews Thursday morning. "There is still lots of work to be done finding spots and working on them -- nothing glamorous about it."

Four 20-member crews were being sent home from the fire Thursday, officials said. The fire has cost about $1.5 million to fight to date.

In the Lolo and Bitterroot national forests, firefighters were kept busy with small, lightning-caused fires.

2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery, 155th BCT Find Weapons Cache

2005-08-04T16:35:00.000-05:00

*To read the headline and beginning paragraph, highlight and copy below this sentence. Edited for those who don't read about the war casualties.*

Car Bomb Claims Three Soldiers' Lives in Baghdad

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 4, 2005 – Three Task Force Baghdad soldiers died Aug. 3 when their vehicle was attacked by a car bomb in southwest Baghdad, Iraq, military officials announced today.

The soldiers' names are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

In other news from Iraq, a tip from an Iraqi citizen Aug. 1 led U. S. soldiers, from the 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery, 155th Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), and Iraqi forces to a weapons cache south of Karbala. The 155th BCT is a U. S. Army unit assigned to the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Items seized and subsequently destroyed included 46 rocket-propelled-grenade launchers, an RPG, 121 60 mm mortar tubes, five 80 mm mortar tubes, a shotgun and two AK-47 assault rifles.

(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq news releases. )

Related Site:
Multinational Force Iraq

News Archive

NOTE: View the original version of this web page on DefenseLINK, the official website of the U. S. Department of Defense.

Visit the Defense Department's Web site "America Supports You" at http://www.americasupportsyou.mil, that spotlights what Americans are doing in support of U.S. military men and women serving at home and abroad.

Visit the Defense Department's Web site for the latest news and information about America's response to the war against terrorism: "Defend America" at http://www.DefendAmerica.mil.

Welcome

2005-07-27T15:06:00.000-05:00

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