Navigating Deployment with Confidence: A Guide for Parents and Service Members
Deployment is a key part of military readiness. Deployments take place to support various missions. The missions can be combat operations, peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and maintaining a military presence in specific world regions. This article looks to help relieve some of the anxiety that may arise when your service member tells you they are being deployed. By providing some helpful insight, this article will help you navigate deployment with confidence.
Understanding Deployment Stages
Military deployment in the United States typically comes in three distinct phases, each one with its unique challenges.
Pre-Deployment Phase
This stage is where your service member starts preparing for their deployment. They undergo intensive training and briefings, and they finalize legal and financial paperwork. But your service member isn’t the only member of the family who’d be getting prepped during this phase; the US military also hosts information sessions for family members of corp members preparing for deployment. These sessions can help ease your concerns by providing you with important details about what to expect during deployment, available support resources you can take advantage of, and ways to stay connected with your service member.
Deployment Phase
This is the actual deployment stage; where your service member leaves for their assigned mission. It is typically the most emotionally challenging phase for both the service and family members. Your service members may face unpredictable schedules and limited communication once deployed, and this can lead to a significant amount of anxiety. To stay in touch during this phase, more work would be required on your end. Staying informed about communication options and military support programs, and maintaining a strong support network can help ease the challenges during this phase.
Post-Deployment/Reintegration Phase
The deployment stage doesn’t stop once the deployment is over. After deployment, your service member begins the process of adjusting to civilian life once again. During this stage, your service member may face emotional, psychological, and logistic difficulties. As their parents, offering patience, understanding, and support is crucial in helping them make the transition smoothly.
How To Prepare for Deployment
Discuss Expectations
You can establish a clear plan for communication, finances, and emergency contacts before your service member leaves.
Understand Military Benefits
Programs like Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) provide emotional and logistical support, ensuring families have the necessary resources.
Organize Documents
You can also ensure legal paperwork, including powers of attorney, wills, and financial plans, is updated to avoid complications during deployment.
Staying Connected While Apart
Although deployment creates physical distance, there are ways to maintain strong emotional connections.
Use Communication Channels: Several options like video calls, letters, and emails would be of utmost help.
Send Care Packages: Personalized packages with photos, favorite snacks, or handwritten letters can also provide comfort.
Join Support Networks: You can connect with military family groups to enjoy reassurance and shared experiences.
You could also support your service member by encouraging them to indulge in self-care, staying informed on military updates, and prioritizing your well-being. With these preparations and resilience, you and your service member can confidently navigate deployment challenges together.
Useful Resources
Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) - Provide military families with information, emotional support, and a sense of community throughout the deployment process.
Deployment Stages - For more information on the different stages of deployment, their challenges, and so on.
How to Prepare for Deployment - Provide insight on preparing for deployment including tips for financial planning, legal paperwork, and emotional readiness.
