Military Culture Sensitization for ICs

Transcription

1 Military Culture Sensitization for ICs 4/7/2015

2 Contents MCS Overview... 5 Purpose of MCS Guidelines... 5 Importance of Understanding Military Culture & Customs... 6 These Guidelines are designed to:... 6 Military Culture... 7 Overview... 7 Service Branch Mission, Structure, Environment & Values... 7 Army... 8 Army Mission and Structure... 8 Army Organizational Structure... 8 Army Environment... 8 Army Values... 8 Army Culture... 9 Army History Highlights... 9 Additional information on the Army: Air Force Air Force Structure Air Force Environment Air Force Values Air Force History Highlights Additional information on the Air Force: Marine Corps Marine Corps Mission and Structure Marine Corps Environment Values Marine History Highlights Navy Navy Mission and Structure Operating Forces of the Navy The Shore Establishment Navy Environment and Values /7/ P age

3 Environment Values Navy History Highlights Additional information on the Navy: Coast Guard Coast Guard Mission Coast Guard Values Coast Guard History Highlights Military Rank and Insignia Military Rank Recognizing and Identifying Military Rank Insignia Rank and Insignia Chart for Each Branch of Service Enlisted Rank Insignia Army, Air Force, and Marine Officer Rank Insignia Navy and Coast Guard Officer Rank Insignia Army, Navy and Marines Warrant Officer Rank Insignia Military Chain of Command Roles and Responsibilities Military Acronyms, Lingo, and Time Common vs. Specific Military Terminology Larger and Notable Installations by Branch Addressing Service Members Service Branches: Terms of Address Sample Evolving Issues Affecting Service Members and Their Families Overview Frequent Relocations Isolation Extended Periods of Separation and Deployments Stress of War Reunion Stress Youthfulness of the Military Population Infidelity Financial Inexperience and Indebtedness /7/ Page

4 Military Traditions and Customs Overview Respect for the United States Flag Reveille/Retreat or Morning/Evening Colors Celebrations and Ceremonies Commendations Military Directives, Instructions and Law Overview Department of Defense Directives and Instructions Service Branch Directives and Instructions Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) Judge Advocate General (JAG) Role of Military Police Career Paths and Veterans Overview Enlisted Service Member Officer Service Member ROTC OCS/OTS United States Military Service Academies Retirement Veteran Veteran Issues Leaving the Military Transitioning to Civilian Life Various Family Issues Adjusting Outside of the Military Lifestyle Understanding the VA System and Processes Veterans and Injury VA Medical Benefits Access to VA Medical Benefits (Where and How) /7/ Page

5 Military Programs, Services and Resources Overview Chaplains Financial Assistance Programs Personal Financial Readiness Program Air Force Aid Society Army Emergency Relief Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) Military Family Support Organizations Counseling Programs Volunteer Programs Children and Youth Programs Legal Assistance Military Benefits Overview Employment Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Other Service Branch and Community Resources Medical Benefits and Services TRICARE Transitional Compensation Military OneSource Knowledge Self Check Military Terms and Acronyms Military Lingo/Phonetic Alphabet Military Time Additional List of DoD and Other Resources For DoD Issuances Common Military Publication Websites Other Useful Websites LMS /7/ P age

6 MCS Overview Why do men and women voluntarily choose to join the Armed Forces of the United States? How do their experiences shape their responses, attitudes, and actions? In order to provide the most effective service and support to military personnel and their families as an independent contractor or subcontractor to the Department of Defense (DoD), it is important to be familiar with the military frame of reference and to understand the answers to these and other questions. It is important to understand how these men and women think and how they feel. Prior to the events of September 11, 2001, some of the reasons for joining the military included taking advantage of the GI bill when paying for higher education; finding direction in life; expanding options for success; or providing a little extra income in exchange for one weekend a month, two weeks in the summer, and helping out during natural disasters. Since that time, primary reasons given for joining the military seem to focus on a sense of duty to country and patriotism. Today s military continues to provide a stable environment for recruits. It pushes them to do more than many would have pushed themselves to do and it provides a platform from which to do so. As a result of the increased needs of a military at war, and through contractual agreement with the Department of Defense, MHN Government Services is working to augment the many services already available to support service members and military families through each branch of service. Military services today have changed from the military services of prior generations. One of the biggest differences is seen in the multiple resources being used to support the families of military service men and women or service members. In everything from health care, to behavioral health care, to financial assistance, to career counseling, and even special educational and medical resources; each military branch provides services to support families and service members as well as provide transition assistance to service members becoming veterans. Purpose of MCS Guidelines The overall purpose and goal of these guidelines is to introduce you to key elements of the military environment and to help you gain a personal sense of the military frame of reference. The information included in these guidelines is essential in preparing the civilian professional to provide services under the DoD contract or subcontract within a military setting. 4/7/ P age

7 Importance of Understanding Military Culture & Customs As an independent contractor ( IC ) providing services to the military, familiarity with the culture and customs of the military is very important. These Guidelines are designed to: Review the main points of military customs including, but not limited to, recognizing military rank and insignia, understanding the chain of command, and addressing service members appropriately Identify each service branch organizational structure, environment and values Describe the policies, procedures, and authority governing the military and its members Highlight evolving issues that affect service members and their families Describe military programs and resources available for referral for MFLC clients Describe military benefits These guidelines are divided into seven sections. Each section covers a different topic important to understanding the culture within which you will provide services. The appendices provide additional information as references. It is intended that all of the material within these guidelines will continue to be a useful reference for the provision of contracted services. 4/7/ P age

8 Military Culture INSIDE THIS SECTION At the conclusion of this section, you will be able to identify: Service Branch Missions Structure, and Values Military Insignia/Addressing Military Members Chain of Command Common and Specific Military Terms Overview With regards to the military, it is beneficial to know that the culture originated from past service members and their organizations. Military culture is structured to optimize mission effectiveness, order, and discipline. Although many civilians have heard that military culture is different, it is not until they experience it first-hand that they fully understand its highly admirable impact, as well as challenges. Consider this scenario as an example of how military life can be different from civilian life: Jason is a 20-year old Private First Class (E-3) who enlisted in the Army immediately after graduating from high school. Six months after enlisting, Jason completed basic training and received his orders for his first duty station. Jason had never been away from his family for any significant period of time before enlisting. As a result he began experiencing adulthood while in boot camp. Soon after arriving at his duty station, Jason met Michelle. Michelle was an 18-year-old, just out of high school, and working at a local restaurant. After dating for four months, Jason learned that his unit was preparing for deployment. They decided to get married. Almost immediately, Michelle realized that military life was different than anything she had ever known as she observed her new husband readying for a year s deployment to the war zone. As a civilian on military installations, you will experience a different culture. Like Michelle, you may find your lack of knowledge of organizational structure, rank insignia, chain of command, and other military designations intimidating or confusing. In this section, you will be given basic information about military organizational structures, rank insignia, and military communication. You will be able to recall the main points of military customs and composition across the different service branches, while recognizing the practical application of that respective structure. Service Branch Mission, Structure, Environment & Values As a civilian professional working as an Independent Contractor, it is important to be able to the different military missions, structures, and cultures of the various service branches. You may be called on to provide service to any of the service members and families of four of the armed services: Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and the Navy. The MFLC contract can provide service to the Coast Guard if they fall under the Title 10 United States Code Directive under the Navy. Each branch of service has its own unique mission and organizational structure. The following information provides a sound overview of the military branches. 4/7/ P age

9 Army Army Mission and Structure Through assigned roles, functions, and missions, the Army endeavors to protect and serve our nation. According to the Army website, the Army mission is: The Army s mission is to fight and win our Nation s wars by providing prompt, sustained land dominance across the full range of military operations and spectrum of conflict in support of combatant commanders. We do this by: Executing Title 10 and Title 32 United Stated Code directive, to include organizing, equipping, and training forces for the conduct of prompt and sustained combatant operations on land Accomplishing missions assigned by the President, Secretary of Defense, and combatant commanders, and transforming the future. Army Organizational Structure Squads Platoons Companies/Troops/Batteries Battalions/Squadrons Brigades Divisions Corps Army Environment As an established and proud organization, the Army intrinsically expects its member to become leaders regardless of rank, as well as to instill leadership in others. The Army considers dedication to duty, flexibility, and team cohesion as its mantra for success. Army personnel naturally demonstrate pride for their organization, peers, and family members. The Army s camaraderie is renowned for its fraternity-like brotherhood, which enhances overall morale. Army personnel seek responsibility, take charge and expect that of military and civilian personnel alike. Army Values Army values provide the framework for all Army activities. These values serve as guidance for the actions of all Soldiers, both in war and in peace. The acronym LDRSHIP (pronounced leadership) represents the Army s culture. 4/7/ P age

10 Army Culture Loyalty Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Army, and other soldiers Duty Fulfill your obligations Respect Treat people as they should be treated Selfless-Service Put the welfare of the nation, the Army, and your subordinates before your own Honor Live up to all the Army values Integrity Do what is right; legally and morally Courage Face fear, danger, and adversity (physical and moral) Army History Highlights 1775: Establishment of the Continental Army : War of The army prevented the British from taking Baltimore and New Orleans : Mexican War. Soldiers fought for the first time far beyond their frontiers. 1944: D-Day, The Battle of Normandy. In the largest, exclusively American field command 1.3 million men stormed the beaches at Normandy in the greatest amphibious attack in history : Korean War. Led by General MacArthur, the war eventually became a stalemate that took the lives of 54,000 Americans and more than two million Koreans and Chinese : Vietnam War. Troops were more effectively delivered to precise locations by helicopter. William Westmoreland commanded their involvement : The United States Invasion of Panama (aka: Operation Just Cause) describes one of the shortest armed conflicts in American military history. It involved about American military personnel. 4/7/ P age

11 1991: First Gulf War (Operation Desert Storm). A coalition force of 34 nations; the United Nations effort was led by U.S. Army General H. Norman Schwarzkopf. 2001: Following the 9/11 attack on the United States of America, American troops have been deployed in Operation Enduring Freedom since elements of the first Special Forces, Marine Corps and Army Rangers began landing there in October : Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ground forces invaded Iraq. By mid-april, Saddam Hussein s army and government had collapsed. 2010: The transition to Operation New Dawn, Sept. 1, marks the official end to Operation Iraqi Freedom and combat operations by United States forces in Iraq. 2014: Estimate for the complete transfer of security responsibility from the United States to Afghanistan. Additional information on the Army: Air Force Air Force Structure The mission of the United States Air Force is to deliver sovereign options for the defense of the United States of America and its global interests to fly and fight in air, space, and cyberspace. Its organizational structure follows: Flights Squadrons Groups Wings Numbered Air Force Air Force Environment As a highly developed organization, the Air Force innately expects its personnel and others to know the organizational structure and protocols. The Air Force considers military professionalism, and the ability to conduct business in a corporate-like manner, as its keys for success. The Air Force takes pride in its highly skilled communicators, who follow the chain of command as well as demonstrate flexibility. 4/7/ P age

12 Air Force Values With regards to values, the Air Force ethic consists of the three fundamental and enduring values of integrity, service, and excellence. This set of values guides the way Air Force members live and perform. Success hinges on adherence to and implementation of these values. Integrity First is at the foundation of an Airman s character. It is the single most important part of an Airman s principled framework and is at the core for which he or she stands. Integrity is as much a part of the Airman s professional reputation as it is the ability to fly, to repair aircraft, to operate the computer-network, to repair the runway, or to defend the airbase. Service Before Self represents an abiding selfless dedication to duty at all times and in all circumstances. Service Before Self does not mean service before family. Airmen have a duty to their family as strong as that to the Service. Excellence in all we do demands Airmen to constantly perform at their best. Airmen always strive to exceed standards objectively based on mission needs; in addition they continually search for new and innovative ways to accomplish the mission. Air Force History Highlights Air Force history encompasses two phases, the Pre and Post Eras of the National Security Act of : The Army Signal Corps purchased a small airship to instruct servicemen to fly. Army pilots Lieutenants Frank P. Lahm and Benjamin D. Foulois made the first ascent in the airship. 1920: The Army Reorganization Act made the Air Service a combatant arm of the Army. 1947: The National Security Act became law. The act created the Department of the Air Force as well as the Department of Defense (DoD). 1948: The Berlin Airlift. Soviets established a blockade around Berlin. Led by Major General William Tunner, allies built an air bridge into Berlin. Considered the single most decisive air power contribution to the cold war. 1965: Viet Cong attacked and killed eight Americans near Pleiku. The President initiated Operation Flaming Dart a series of air strikes near Dong Hoi in North Vietnam. 1991: Operation Desert Storm. The Air Force bombed Iraqi military targets to set up the invasion for U.S. ground forces. Within the first 24 hours of Desert Storm, the air war contributed in a major way to the rapid advance of ground forces and a quick victory for the Joint Coalition Forces. 2010: The transition to Operation New Dawn, Sept. 1, marks the official end to Operation Iraqi Freedom and combat operations by United States forces in Iraq. Additional information on the Air Force: 4/7/ P age

13 Marine Corps Teams Squads Platoons Companies Regiments Divisions Marine Corps Mission and Structure The mission of the Marine Corps is to provide support and operate as an integrated combined arms force providing a joint force enabler in three dimensions - air, land, and sea. The organizational structure of the Marines is similar to the Army and is listed in ascending order below: Marine Corps Environment Marines share a camaraderie that is unmatched. They live by the motto: Semper Fidelis (from the Latin meaning, Always Faithful ). To the Marines, who often shorten this to Semper Fi, it is more than just a motto; it is a way of life and the root of their commitment to fellow Marines, to Country, to the Corps, and to family. Marines take care of Marines. They are taught very early in their career to always look out for one another. For more information on the Marine see the link in the notes section and download the Marine Culture Manual from the MHNGS website and Learning Management (LMS) link. Values The Marine Corps strives to produce not only the best warriors, but also the best people men and women who live by the core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. Honor guides Marines to exemplify the ultimate in ethical and moral behavior: to never lie, cheat or steal; to abide by an uncompromising code of integrity; to respect human dignity; and to respect others. They demonstrate this standard as they: Lead by example Maintain a high standard of integrity Uphold special trust and confidence Honor fellow Marines, the Corps, Country, and Family Courage is the mental, moral, and physical strength ingrained in Marines. It is the ability to do the right thing, in the right way, for the right reasons. Courage carries Marines through the challenges of combat and aids them in overcoming fear. Commitment is the spirit of determination and dedication found in Marines. It leads to the highest order of discipline for individuals and units. It is the ingredient that enables 24 hour a day dedication to Corps and country. 4/7/ P age

14 Marine History Highlights History plays an important part in understanding the brotherhood of the Marine Corps. It also helps explain where and how many of the traditions of the Corps came about. 1798: President John Adams signed the act establishing and organizing a Marine Corps. The Marine Corps was to consist of a battalion of 500 privates, led by a major and a complement of officers and NCO s. 1847: The Marine Corps was given the task of clearing the Palacio National in Mexico City the halls of Montezuma where they cut down the Mexican colors and ran up the Stars and Stripes. 1918: Battle at Belleau Wood, France: Marines fought against the German Machine Guns. It is here the Marine Corps reputation in modern history was created. The Marines ferociousness earned them the respect of the Germans, who reportedly rated them of storm-trooper quality. The Marines and American media reported the Germans had nicknamed them Teufelhunden or Devil Dogs ; while this fact has never been corroborated, the name stuck. The French government renamed Belleau Wood Bois de la Brigade de Marine, or Wood of the Marine Brigade, and decorated both the 5th and 6th Regiments with the Croix de Guerre (a French military honor for bravery in combat). 1944: D-Day: U.S. lands in Normandy. The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Divisions of the Marine Corps fought on the Pacific front. 1945: Iwo Jima: Marines led the charge in capturing Iwo Jima, Japan. Iwo Jima s airstrips were important to the success of the U.S. air strikes on Japan during World War II. Marines came ashore and captured the island by taking Mt. Suribachi. Five Marines and one Navy corpsmen raised the American flag atop the mountain. 1965: Marked a large scale Marine involvement in Vietnam.85,000 Marines were in Vietnam out of a Marine Corps numbering just over 300, : Marines took part in the highly successful, short-notice intervention in Grenada. 1989: Marines responded to instability in Central America during Operation Just Cause in Panama to protect American lives and restore democracy. 1990: The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait led to the largest movement of Marine forces since World War II. Between August 1990 and January 1991, 24 infantry battalions, 40 squadrons (more than 92,000 Marines) deployed to the Persian Gulf as part of Operation Desert Shield. 2003: Operation Iraqi Freedom Marine Expeditionary Force, along with the Army's 3rd Infantry Division, spearheaded the 2003 invasion of Iraq. 2010: The transition to Operation New Dawn, Sept. 1, marks the official end to Operation Iraqi Freedom and combat operations by United States forces in Iraq. 4/7/ P age

15 Navy Navy Mission and Structure The mission of the Navy is to maintain, train, and equip combat-ready Naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression, and maintaining freedom of the seas. The Navy s unique organizational structure may not fully equivocate to the other service branches. For the sake of simplicity, a high-level organizational chart as well as an overview of the Navy s Operating Forces and Shore Establishment follows. Operating Forces of the Navy The Operating Forces of the Navy are responsible for Naval operations necessary to carry out the Navy s role of upholding policies and interests. The Operating Forces consist of: Pacific Fleet Atlantic Fleet Naval Forces Europe Sealift Command The Shore Establishment The Shore establishment consists of the commands that function to support the Operating Forces. The Shore Establishment may consist of: Shipyards Fuel Depots Supply Centers Training Centers 4/7/ P age

16 Navy Environment and Values Of all the service branches, the Navy Culture can be the most challenging and exciting to learn. Compared to the other service branches, the Navy environment can vary the most. In addition to learning the Navy s higher and lower level organizational terms, civilians should learn the Navy subcultures, which make the Navy unique. Environment The Navy environment is renowned for its various subcultures and expects others to be knowledgeable and participate in the subcultures. A few of the Navy Subcultures include: The Chief Petty Officer the Navy s Chief Petty Officer role is one of the most valued positions by commanders and junior enlisted alike. Many consider the Chiefs as the glue that holds everything together. It would be appropriate for a civilian to partner with the Chief. Rank verses Rating Unlike the other service branches, the Navy uses a rating protocol. Ratings are general occupations that consist of specific skills and abilities. Enlisted sailors are referred to by their rating and rate. For example, if sailor s rate is Petty Officer 2nd Class and his or her rating is Boatswain s Mate; when combined Boatswain s Mate 2nd Class (BM2) defines both. Unique Vocabulary: The Navy has its own type of language that demonstrates pride and reinforces camaraderie such as: Gee Dunk = Snack Bar Bulkhead = Wall Deck = Floor Values Similar to the Marines, the Navy values are Honor, Courage and Commitment. Even though the values are the same, they are communicated differently. The Navy feels that honor means that each Navy member is accountable for his or her professional and personal behavior. They demonstrate this value by: Making honest recommendations to seniors and peers and seeking honest recommendations from junior personnel. Encouraging new ideas and delivering bad news forthrightly. Courage is the value that gives Navy members the moral and mental strength to do what is right, with confidence and resolution, even in the face of temptation or adversity. They demonstrate this value as they: Have the courage to meet the demands of the Navy profession and the mission entrusted to Navy members. Make decisions and act in the best interest of the Navy and the nation, without regard to personal consequences. Overcome all challenges while adhering to the highest standards of personal conduct and decency. 4/7/ P age

17 The Navy identifies commitment as the day-to-day duty of every man and woman in the Navy. By members joining together, the Navy team improves its members and the quality of their performance. They display this value by: Showing respect toward all people without regard to race, religion, or gender. Always striving for positive change and personal improvement. Exhibiting the highest degree of moral character, professional excellence, quality, and competence. Navy History Highlights 1775: The Continental Navy was established when the Continental Congress in Philadelphia authorized two armed vessels to search for ships supplying the British Army. 1880s: The overall history of the Navy was divided into two major periods: Within this timeframe the Navy was known as the Old Navy, a small but respected force of innovative sailing ships such as ironclads (steampropelled warships) used during the Civil War. 1941: The attack of Pearl Harbor by Japanese bombers heavily damaged the American fleet. 1950s: Nuclear-powered ships, along with missiles and jets were developed giving the Navy its reputation for high technology and superior capabilities. During the Cold War, construction of ships expanded to keep up with the Soviet fleet : Naval aircraft carriers and gunboats were active in Vietnam. 1990s: In Desert Storm, the presence of Navy Middle East Force ships deterred Iraqi mine laying in the southern Persian Gulf and missiles took out heavily defended targets in Iraq. 2008: Approximately 14,000 Sailors are deployed as Individual Augmentees in support of OIF and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), including 5,700 in Iraq and 1,500 in Afghanistan, among various other countries around the world. 2010: The transition to Operation New Dawn, Sept. 1, marks the official end to Operation Iraqi Freedom and combat operations by United States forces in Iraq. Additional information on the Navy: 4/7/ P age

18 Coast Guard Coast Guard Mission The United States Coast Guard can receive service under the Title 10 United States Directive for the MFLC Program. You may encounter a Coast Guardsman who is stationed on an installation or at an event where you are assigned. Therefore, it is important to have a working understanding of this Service. By law, the Coast Guard has eleven missions: Ports, waterways, and coastal security Drug interdiction Aids to navigation Search and rescue Living marine resources Marine safety Defense readiness Migrant interdiction Marine environmental protection Ice operations Other law enforcement Thus, they are military, multi-mission, and maritime. Coast Guard Values The Coast Guard, like the other armed services of the United States, has a set of core values which serve as basic ethical guidelines for all Coast Guard Active Duty, Reservists, Auxiliarists and Civilians. The Coast Guard Core Values are: Honor: Integrity is the standard. Coast Guardsmen demonstrate uncompromising ethical conduct and moral behavior in all personal actions. They are loyal and accountable to the public trust. Respect: Coast Guardsmen value their diverse workforce. They treat each other with fairness, dignity and compassion. They encourage individual opportunity and growth. They encourage creativity through empowerment and they work as a team. Devotion to Duty: Coast Guardsmen are professionals, military and civilian, who seek responsibility, accept accountability, and are committed to the successful achievement of our organizational goals. They exist to serve and serve with pride. Note: The US Coast Guard is currently eligible to receive MFLC services under Title10 under the Navy branch of service. 4/7/ P age

19 Coast Guard History Highlights 1790: Revenue-Marine (later renamed Revenue Cutter Service) created within the Treasury Department 1915: Revenue Cutter Service combines with the U.S. Lifesaving Service (est. 1848) to create the Coast Guard 1939: U.S. Lighthouse Service (est. 1789) added 1946: Steamboat Inspection Service (est. 1838) added. 1967: Coast Guard transferred to Department of Transportation 2003: Coast Guard transferred to Department of Homeland Security 4/7/ P age

20 Military Rank and Insignia Military rank is more than merely who salutes whom. Military rank is a badge of leadership. Responsibility for personnel, equipment, and mission grows with each increase in rank. The rank structure of the Armed Forces is as important to the operation of the military as is the organizational structure of any large company possibly even more. Within each branch of service, insignia is displayed on the uniform to identify an individual s rank, and therefore his or her position within the command structure. In this way, insignia makes the command structure easily recognizable to the troops and their families as well as to all civilian employees within the military. While all military personnel deserve respect, the ability to recognize the rank insignia of those with whom you are working demonstrates that you not only respect them, but you also understand and are willing to respect the military culture and protocol. Military Rank The rank structure in the Armed Forces consists of three components: Enlisted Enlisted ranks range from E1 E9 Officers Officer ranks range from O1 O10 Warrant Officers Warrant Officer ranks range from W1 W5 (except Air Force) For additional details on the ranks and corresponding insignia for each of the branches of the United States Armed Forces, see the chart following this section. To best understand ranks and insignia it may help to compare the different components to the employees and officers of a civilian company. Enlisted personnel are those who are involved in hands-on labor. Included as line-supervisors and foreman within this group are: Non-commissioned Officers (NCOs) Army Air Force Marines Petty Officers Navy and Coast Guard While NCOs and Petty Officers are also hands-on, they provide direct supervision to the personnel under their control. Although officers are in charge, they expect their senior NCOs to carry out the mission. An Army Sergeant, an Air Force Staff Sergeant, and a Marine Corporal are considered NCO ranks. The Navy and Coast Guard NCO equivalent, Petty Officer, is achieved at the rank of petty officer third class. Included in the leadership group would be: 4/7/ P age

21 Senior NCOs Army Air Force Marines Chief Petty Officers Navy and Coast Guard Senior NCOs and Chief Petty Officers are assistant managers who have come up through the ranks of the corporation. They are valuable as managers because of their many years of experience, though they are unlikely to make it to the Board of Directors. Leadership responsibility increases in the mid-level enlisted ranks, E-5 through E-7. This responsibility is given formal recognition by use of the terms non-commissioned officer (NCO) and petty officer. Commissioned Officers can be seen as the managers of the company. They have broad areas of responsibility for the management, organization, and efficiency of various departments within the corporation. Warrant Officers are highly trained specialists in the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and Marines. Unlike commissioned officers, warrant officers remain in their primary specialty to provide expert knowledge, instruction, and leadership to enlisted members and commissioned officers alike. Recognizing and Identifying Military Rank Insignia As a civilian, it can be confusing and a little intimidating to identify rank. Though there are differences between service branches and between enlisted personnel and commissioned officers, it is helpful to know that rank insignia is generally located in up to four places on a military uniform. For enlisted personnel, rank insignia will typically appear either on the hat, on the arm, or on the collar. (Note: When wearing the field uniform, the insignia may also appear on the chest.) Officer rank insignia will always appear on the hat, shoulder boards, cuffs of a jacket or collar and not on the sleeve. Keep this in mind while identifying the rank of the personnel with whom you come in contact. Rank insignia for enlisted personnel in all branches of service include some arrangement of stripes. Depending on the branch, these stripes are referred to as chevrons and/or rockers. For the Army and the Marines, chevrons are the stripes that point upward and appear on the top of the insignia while rockers are the curved stripes that appear on the bottom of the insignia. Air Force insignia stripes are shaped differently. They generally point in a downward fashion and incorporate a white star within a solid circle in the center of the insignia for nearly all ranks. The Air Force refers to all stripes as chevrons. Navy and Coast Guard rank insignia are different in that they incorporate downward pointing stripes and a white eagle into all but the lowest ranks, which include only straight stripes set at an angle. Rank insignia for officers will always incorporate the use of stars and bars (which can include leaves or eagles as well) but do not include chevrons or rockers. Officers insignias are very similar across all branches of service. Warrant officers insignia incorporate bars with stripes on them. 4/7/ P age

22 Subdued rank insignia, as worn on the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU), the new Army Combat Uniform (ACU), or Field Dress Uniforms (FDUs) are designed to reduce visibility of the wearer under combat and field conditions. This provides additional camouflage and concealment. Subdued metal insignia are black and brown in place of silver and gold, respectively. For example, the subdued versions of gold insignia may be embroidered in brown thread on an olive-drab backing. However, on desert uniforms, tan backing replaces the olive-drab backing. Consequently, subdued rank insignia may be a little more difficult to distinguish. Note: The branch-specific rank insignia included on the following pages is very important. Rank and Insignia Chart for Each Branch of Service NOTE: DEERS stands for Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, which includes information about the service member and his/her department. Enlisted Rank Insignia Air Force Army 4/7/ P age

23 Marines Navy 4/7/ P age

24 Army, Air Force, and Marine Officer Rank Insignia Note: The officer rank insignia is the same for the Army, Air Force and Marine Officers, but the rank abbreviations vary across service branches. Army abbreviations are displayed. See the Air Force and Marine Manual for their respective abbreviations. Navy and Coast Guard Officer Rank Insignia *The star is replaced by a gold shield for Coast Guard insignia 4/7/ P age

25 Army, Navy and Marines Warrant Officer Rank Insignia Military Chain of Command Roles and Responsibilities The chain of command is one of the most important aspects of the military culture as it demonstrates leadership structure, responsibility and helps to maintain order. Consequently, it is important to understand and adhere to appropriate protocol when accessing the chain of command. The chain of command describes the organizational structure of the personnel in each branch of service. Think of each service member as one link in a chain. That member s chain of command includes the consecutive individuals above and below; from closest to most distant. This chain cannot be broken nor can links be skipped. Using the chain of command, members of the military may communicate personal and professional matters to their immediate supervisor and/or their First Sergeant/Petty Officer. That person will then decide on and take the appropriate course of action such as elevating the matter further up the chain of command to the appropriate authority. For example, Staff Sergeant Smith may communicate some issues to Master Sergeant Harris, who talks to Captain Davis. In turn, Captain Davis speaks with Colonel Green, who is his commanding officer. If needed, Colonel Green will contact the appropriate agencies for resolution or delegate the matter to the First Sergeant. Often referred to as the 'first shirt', or 'shirt', the First Sergeant is responsible for the morale, welfare, and conduct of all the enlisted members in a squadron and is the chief adviser to the squadron commander concerning the enlisted force. The First Sergeant position exists in all service branches except the Navy. In the 4/7/ P age

26 Navy, it is usually the Chief Petty Officer. Civilians within this environment are strongly encouraged to know the chain of command. Military Acronyms, Lingo, and Time It is important to use the correct military acronyms, lingo, and time system to facilitate communication and eliminate confusion. It is very important that you are familiar with them. Use it as a reference tool during the course of your tasks. Common vs. Specific Military Terminology In your IC role, you may hear different terminology or vocabulary while working in the military setting. At times you may be contracted to provide service in each service branch, so it is important to become more purple and understand all service branch terms such as installation, base, and unit; and how they may overlap or differ. Purple is a term commonly used for joint or inter-service missions and activities. In regard to color, purple is achieved when Army green, Air Force blue, Marine red and Navy blue are combined. Becoming purple allows you to successfully adapt and work across all service branches. Further, by recognizing these terms, it will assist you in providing services. Some common terminologies that tend to be synonymous to the average civilian are discussed in more detail below. Installation or Base: While working across different military environments, you may hear people refer to their military work location as the installation or base. A military installation or base is a facility directly owned and operated by and/or for the military. In addition, a military installation or base can be owned by one of the military branches to shelter military equipment and personnel; to facilitate training; and to carry out operations. Even though it is common to use both terms, it may prove easier to use the more generic of the two, which is installation. Installation is a good generic term to use across all service branches. To gain further clarity, review the service specific installation terms below. Army Installations: The Army often refers to its installations as a Post, Fort, or Camp. A post is the Army s basic name for the military installations, which may have permanent buildings such as the Post Exchange. While also considered a Post, a Fort has military buildings that are designed for defense in warfare. A military camp is commonly a semi-permanent facility for lodging of Army and Marines. Camps may have the form of large campsites and are erected for training or operations. Air Force Installations: The Air Force refers to their installations as an Air Force Base (AFB), Air Station, or Field. The Air Force refers to most of its primary installations with multiple missions as Air Force Bases. An Air Force Station is an installation with minimal flight activity. A field or airfield is a parcel of land commonly shared between a local city airport and the Air National Guard entity. Navy Installations: The Navy refers to its installations as a Naval Base, Station, or Air Station. Naval Bases may serve as the headquarters for a Navy fleet or provide base operating services and programs. A Naval Station may hold a runway for aircrafts and a harbor for accommodating ships. Many Naval Air Stations conduct flying operations/training for Navy and Marine aviators. 4/7/ P age

27 Marine Installations: The Marines refer to their installations as a Base, Camp, or Air Station. Marine Bases may conduct relevant live-fire combined arms training, urban operations, as well as provide the facilities, services, and support responsive to the needs of resident organizations, Marines, and their families. Marine Camps tend to provide specific wartime training. Marine Air Stations may conduct anti-air warfare and offensive air support operations. Unit: Many service members often use the term Unit to refer to their work location. For example, a soldier or airman may say in conversation that he or she is returning to their Unit to pick up their orders prior to deploying. The Unit may be the soldier s official brigade or the airman s squadron. Generally, the Unit is the smallest independent operating element within a military. It may take on the form of a battalion, squadron or naval ship. Larger and Notable Installations by Branch You may travel and work at different service branch installations. Listed below are just a few of the service branch installations, which are commonly considered the largest or the most notable. Army Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas is the largest active duty armored post in the Unites States and is the only post in the United States that is capable of supporting two full armored divisions. By population, Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, North Carolina is the largest Army installation in the world, providing a home to almost 10 percent of the Army s active component forces. Approximately 43,000 military and 8,000 civilian personnel work at Fort Bragg. Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas is the largest Army maneuver installation with 1.1 million acres at 550 square miles. Fort Campbell in Kentucky is one of the largest installations in the world at 164 square miles (105,068 acres). Approximately, over 93,000 acres of the reservation are dedicated to training and firing ranges. Air Force Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio is the headquarters of the Air Force Material Command with a workforce at about 78,000 military and civilian personnel. It represents 57% of the Air Force s operating budget. Home of the Fighter Pilot Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, Nevada is a member of the United States Air Force s Air Combat Command. It is home to the largest and most demanding advanced air combat training in the world. Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas is the sole location for United States Air Force enlisted Basic Military Training (BMT) and considered the Gateway to the Air Force. Known as the Gateway to the Pacific, Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, California handles more cargo and passenger traffic through its aerial port than any other military air terminal in the United States. 4/7/ P age

28 Marines Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, California is the Marine Corps largest base and home to the Corps most complex, combined-arms, live-fire training. Camp Pendleton in San Diego County, California serves as the Marines major West Coast prime amphibious training installation and is home of the 1st Marine Division and various training commands. Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina is home to the United States Marine Expeditionary Force, 2nd Marine Division, three other major Marine commands, and a Naval hospital. Camp Lejeune with 14 miles of beaches makes it a major area for amphibious assault training and allows for fast deployments. Marine Corps Base Quantico in Prince William County, Virginia is known as the Crossroads of the Marine Corps, it is a major Marine Corps training base, covering nearly 100 square miles. Navy The largest concentration of Naval installations is in Hampton Roads, Virginia where the Navy occupies over 36,000 acres of land (including 4,300 acres in Norfolk, Virginia), making it the largest naval installation in the world. It is the homeport of the Atlantic Fleet. The Navy s second-largest complex is located in San Diego, California. An important port for the Pacific Fleet, it contains the Naval Special Warfare Center, which is the main training center for SEALs. Yokosuka, Japan is the largest overseas Naval base and serves as home port for the Navy s largest forward-deployed fleet and is a significant base of operations in the Western Pacific. Great Lakes Naval Recruit Training Command (RTC) in North Chicago, Illinois is the central processing location for Naval recruits. Approximately 50,000 recruits pass through Great Lakes RTC annually. Addressing Service Members The terms military member or service member are synonymous when addressing personnel. However, in other places you may see the term service member used as the generic term for all personnel in the military. It can be confusing for civilians to properly address service members. For example, it is not uncommon for civilians to refer to a Marine as a Soldier, which is incorrect. It is helpful to learn all of the service branch personnel terms. To better understand, review the specific service branch and its personnel terms below. Army = Soldiers Air Force = Airmen Marine = Marines Navy = Sailors Coast Guard = Coasties Note: When in doubt on which personnel term to use, say or use the term service member. All service members are required to address civilian personnel by Mr., Mrs., Miss, or Ms. followed by last name, unless requested to do otherwise. Civilian personnel should address service members by their rank and last name (i.e., MSgt Jones, Corporal Smith, Gunnery Barnes, Petty Officer Third Class Williams). 4/7/ P age

29 A Chief Master Sergeant will be called Chief (Chief Hamilton), never Sergeant. A Marine Gunnery Sergeant may be addressed as Gunny, but not Sergeant. A Lieutenant Colonel (O-5) is addressed as Colonel, the same as a Colonel (O-6). When in doubt it is better to address a military member as sir or ma am rather than to guess and be wrong; it can be disrespectful or offensive. See the Army, Air Force, Marines, and Navy terms of address tables on the following pages. To review a complete terms of address table see the specific service branch guide. Service Branches: Terms of Address Sample Lieutenant Colonel LTC Lieutenant Colonel or Colonel Sergeant First Class SFC Sergeant AIR FORCE Major Maj Major Chief Master Sergeant CMSgt Chief Master Sergeant or Chief Technical Sergeant TSgt Technical Sergeant or Sergeant MARINES Second Lieutenant 2ndLT Lieutenant Sergeant Major SGTMAJ Sergeant Major NAVY Ensign ENS Ensign Chief Petty Officer CPO Chief or Chief Petty Officer 4/7/ P age

30 Evolving Issues Affecting Service Members and Their Families After completing this section you will be familiar with some important evolving issues leading to pressures in military families such as: Frequent Relocations and Deployments Isolation from extended family members Reunions Financial issues High Risk Behavior and Suicide Prevention Overview Today s military service members and their families experience a number of continually evolving issues that affect and add to the typical stress of family life. The military family (active duty and Guard/Reserve) life is unique in that they are frequently told where to live, when and where to work, and when to deploy. An Army s family s life may look like the following: Jason and Michelle (introduced in section 1), married 10 months into Jason s military career and just before his first deployment, have been married now for two years. Jason is stationed in Germany and moved into post housing. Jason and Michelle have an 18 month old daughter. Jason recently deployed to Iraq for the second time. Michelle, who had just learned she is 3 months pregnant with their second child, seldom leaves home. This has been Michelle s pattern since her introduction to the military and it has only intensified since arriving in a foreign county. She has few friends, limited contact with her family, and feels very uncomfortable functioning within the military community as well as within the community surrounding the post. Additionally, Michelle has never felt skilled in looking into services available through the military. She feels isolated and is becoming increasingly unhappy. Michelle s issues are probably more common for the military family than the civilian family. It is important that you become familiar with these issues and recognize them as you work within the military culture. While many families thrive in the military environment, there are some families that struggle with the issues discussed below. Frequent Relocations Frequent relocations are a part of the military experience and require facing and adjusting to many challenges. Many installations located in rural areas or overseas do not have immediate availability to the services that families use in urban and suburban areas. In addition to having to adjust to a new home and new surroundings, families are affected by the following issues, to name a few: Adjusting to new neighborhoods Finding employment for the non-military spouse Locating resources to meet children s special medical needs Adjusting to new schools and teachers Accommodating children s special needs Moving long distances Following up on reimbursement for lost or damaged goods Maintaining education & career training during frequent moves Building new support systems and social networks 4/7/ P age

31 Isolation Service members and their families must adapt to the guiding principles of: duty first, unlimited commitment, and the 24-hours-a-day/ 7-days-a week mentality. Service members can experience emotional and social isolation due to many variables. Emotional isolation for service members may result from feeling as though they have abandoned their families during deployment. Isolation for families can develop as a result of moving from one duty-installation to another, and being geographically distant from support systems. Social isolation can result as well, since separation can make visits difficult. Some military families may be housed off the installation in communities that do not necessarily embrace them. Additionally, responsibilities and commitments in the home may keep these families from participating in and traveling to on-installation activities such as arts and crafts events, fundraisers, or volunteer opportunities. Often there is no extended family nearby to lend support and returning home to visit family or other support systems could be limited by the family s financial means. This could be difficult when service members marry at a younger age and begin a family without that additional support. At times, military families may accompany the service member spouse when deployed to a foreign country. While there, they may experience culture shock around things like language barriers and currency exchange. The non-military spouse may have difficulty seeking employment due to the Status of Forces Agreement (treaty) or lack of job experience. This can also add to feelings of isolation along with the potential stress of diversity, housing issues, and extended working hours. Extended Periods of Separation and Deployments During a service member s career, there may be extended periods of separation from family. When assigned to an unaccompanied location (meaning without family) the adjustment period is often challenging for both the family and the service member. During these separations, the family often worries about the service member s well-being. At the same time, the service member may feel guilt for being unavailable to actively and effectively address problems at home, for example, helping with sick children and performing home repairs. If the service member is a single parent or part of dual-military couple with children, there is the added stress of finding someone reliable to care for the children during deployments. Deployments often impact the roles of the family members as well. These changes in family structure tend to intensely affect children. One military spouse (wife) spoke of increased stress in the relationship between her 13-year old daughter and herself. When approached regarding these concerns, the daughter explained that she was struggling to adjust when her father deployed and her mother returned to work. The stress of separation and deployments may also have an additional impact on the spouses left behind by senior officers and NCO s. These spouses are often looked on as experienced and will be sought out by others for advice, counsel, comfort and problem-solving. 4/7/ P age

32 These family deployment issues may affect children of the Guard and Reserve differently than Active Duty children due in part to feeling a lack of connection to the military community. While Active Duty children attend schools either on military installations or where a large number of their classmates are also from military families, children of the Guard/Reserve may feel isolated. A child of the Guard/Reserve may be the only child in a particular classroom or school coming from a military family. Stress of War War causes a tremendous amount of stress and can have long lasting effects on military service members and their families. Fear of deployment, injury, and stress related to readiness are compounded by the obvious stress brought on by the inherent danger, risk, and unpredictability of combat itself. Once the service member is deployed, the family may worry about his or her safety. At the same time, the service member may fear for his or her family s safety, which can complicate and compound combat related stress, making it difficult to focus on the mission. Interestingly, although service member s return is a cause for joy and celebration, reintegration into the family and the community can be a cause of additional stress for everyone. Reunion Stress Service members and their families often believe that, if they can just get home, life will be normal again. Even though the initial homecoming is full of joy and excitement, there is also a great deal of anxiety and stress. Creating the perfect homecoming can be stressful. Most of the time, the family and the service member have some idea of what the perfect reunion will be. Unfortunately, each may envision something different. For instance, the service member may just want a night alone with his or her spouse or a quiet family dinner. The spouse, on the other hand, may just be looking for some help with the kids. In addition, the service member s extended family may want a big homecoming celebration with a house full of relatives and friends. It is not unusual for the service member to return home tired. He or she may not have slept more than a few hours in several days, having been hyper-vigilant while in combat locations. The returning service member will need time to unwind from the pressures of war and to reconnect with family and friends when he or she is ready. When preparing to come home, service members often expect things to be just like they were before they deployed. Unfortunately, this is not usually the case. Families change and adjust to their situations just as service members do. These changes can be another source of stress. Often, spouses at home choose to keep secrets while their service member is in the combat zone. Sometimes they don t tell him or her about family emergencies or problems with the children, the finances, or the house-while they are gone. This leaves a lot to be dealt with when the service member returns home. Also, the service member may have secrets of his or her own related to experiences in combat. It is important for the military spouse and the family to understand that the service member will talk about these things when the service member is ready and, in fact, he or she may never be ready. Limited contact and assumptions may cause the military spouse to worry that the returning service member may not be happy with how the home or finances have been managed. The returning service member may be worried about how (or if) he or she still has a place in the family and is still needed. Children may worry that the returning parent will be unhappy with what they may have heard about the child s behavior while gone. 4/7/ P age

33 They may worry about whether the returning parent will be the same. They may worry about saying or doing the right thing. The return of a service member may also introduce conflict into the family when lines of authority, discipline and even schedule laid out by spouse in the member s absence are re-adjusted. While interacting with these families, understand that reunion and reintegration is a process. Families adjusting to change may find it difficult, stressful, and lengthy. Youthfulness of the Military Population Issues related to youthfulness in the military are, in many ways, similar to those seen in the civilian young adult population. One major difference is the lack of immediate older support group available in the military environment. Immaturity can lead to problematic behaviors, poor financial management and other poor choices with unexpected consequences. For instance, some young service members decide to get married just prior to deployment. Couples who marry impulsively may not have had the opportunity to get to know each other well. Consequently, this can cause some significant problems, and when the service member returns, the couple is just getting acquainted. Lack of mature and stable relationships while deployed can lead to rumors regarding the spouse left at home. Infidelity Although concerns about infidelity are often verbalized by both service members and significant others left behind, it is unclear how frequently it may occur. Reasons for infidelity can range from extended periods of separation, to environmental changes, to feelings of being alone or lonely or to a whole host of other variables. It is not uncommon for a relationship to be problematic before the service member deploys and issues hardly ever resolve themselves during separation. Service members are encouraged to seek help when they need it. Couples need to know there are many resources available to help them strengthen their relationship. Financial Inexperience and Indebtedness Many families face the financial challenge of beginning military service and family simultaneously. A junior enlisted service member earns slightly more than minimum wage. It may not be surprising that lower ranking service members married to civilian spouses may not have funds to pay their bills. Financial problems arise for many reasons. Young service members may lack any real understanding of, or experience in, financial management. Military service may be the first time they have earned income at any substantial level and they struggle to control discretionary spending. Some who return home, having saved a significant amount of income, may feel justified in spending what they have saved. Unfortunately, this may leave them with ongoing payments rendering them unable to sustain their financial obligations. Occasionally, service members will leave another family member or a friend in charge of their finances while they are deployed. They may return home to find their money was wasted or completely spent in ways of which they would not have approved. At times, the family may rely on payday loan businesses, which have shady lending practices that lead to further debt. 4/7/ P age

34 A service member is expected to pay financial obligations in a timely manner. As part of the business process, many loan and credit agencies often require the name and number of the service member s supervisor or First Sergeant. When a service member fails to pay financial obligations, his or her First Sergeant or Commander may be contacted and become involved. If involved, the financial indiscretion is documented, which might impede the member s career. Service members who are in debt may lose their security clearance preventing them from performing certain duties and deploying overseas. Additionally, limited income can decrease family participation in much needed recreational and welfare activities, further affecting the stress within the family. High Risk Behavior/Suicide Prevention The alarming increase in the rate of suicides in the military has reached a crisis level of concern for military leadership. When compared with 2001, the death rates of both suicide and accidental death have tripled. The historically low suicide rates in the military began trending upward in 2004, surpassed the civilian rate and continues to rise. In FY2009, suicides and accidental deaths (deaths as a result of high risk behavior) claimed more lives in the military than did active duty combat. Many of the evolving issues listed in subsections are leading causal factors in high risk behavior and suicide: Loneliness, isolation: Often times, service members are deployed away from their family for months on end. Additionally, PCSing can move military families far away from their own family and friend support network. This causes great stress to the entire family. Repeated deployments: Service members on their third or fourth deployments reported "significantly more" acute stress, psychological problems, marital problems and use of medication for psychological or combat-stress problems than service members in their first deployment Stress: Caused by any of the factors listed here and numerous others, stress is a big contributor to high risk behavior and the related negative consequences. TBI or other physical injuries medical issues: Debilitating injuries, ongoing pain and/or a lack of family support often leads to depression for service members, alcohol abuse and high risk behaviors. Relationship issues: Difficulty within a relationship or marriage is a leading factor of high risk behavior. Financial indebtedness: The financial challenges faced by the military family at all stages of a military career coupled with the responsibility to maintain good credit causes extreme stress for some military families. Drug and alcohol abuse: Drug and alcohol use and abuse play a major role in high risk behavior. Prescription drug abuse is on the rise and is difficult to track. Transitions: Transitions commonly signify a major life event, such as deployment, redeployment, divorce or retirement and add additional stress to the Service Member and the military family. Early detection of high risk behavior and intervention can significantly alleviate progression into more serious high risk behaviors and consequences. In the past nine years, over 9,000 Soldiers that demonstrated substance abuse issues were not referred appropriately for evaluation. 4/7/ P age

35 Military Traditions and Customs When you have completed this section, you will: Understand why military traditions and customs are important Be familiar with the more well-known military customs Overview In the military, traditions and customs have grown out of the manner in which service members of the past conducted themselves. Many traditions have been incorporated into regulations in order to standardize conduct throughout the military, but some of them cannot be found in written directives. Knowledge and observation of these written and unwritten customs are essential for each service member. The camaraderie and strong loyalty created among service members as a result is a distinguishing mark of the military. A Marine Officer upholds the following custom: Major Michael Brown and his wife arrive on Camp Lejeune shortly before the duty day. As they arrived at the command office, the Major parked the car and both exited the vehicle. The Major stood at attention and saluted as the United States flag was raised and To the Colors was played by the bugler at Morning Colors. The Major s wife stood quietly with respect as she placed her hand over her heart. On this particular day, the major was wearing his dress blues and his wife was dressed up as well. They were scheduled to attend the celebration of the Marine Corp Birthday. You may witness a scene very similar to this while working on an installation. This section will help you become familiar with customs that are a part of military tradition. Civilians providing service on military installations are expected to adhere to protocols associated with significant daily or periodic events, and to respect the traditions of all service branches. Respect for the United States Flag Civilians and military personnel demonstrate respect and allegiance to the United States flag. It symbolizes freedom and preserves the memory of those who fought for the freedoms that we exercise as American citizens. Most military installations honor the flag with daily ceremonies at reveille or Morning Colors when the flag is raised and again at retreat or Evening Colors when the flag is lowered. While civilian organizational flags, institutional flags, state flags, and regimental colors may be bowed to another flag, person, or entity as a mark of honor, respect for the United States flag dictates that it should never be bowed to any person or thing. It is important to understand proper display of the United States flag. For instance, the flag must never be displayed with the union (blue field) down, except as a signal of distress. Also, when displayed with other flags, it must always be displayed in the position of prominence. For more guidance on proper display of the United States flag, see the link Flag Display Information: 4/7/ P age

36 Reveille/Retreat or Morning/Evening Colors Bugle calls originated as a way to manage and regulate the military day and served as an essential means of communication in battle. Reveille and Retreat are played every day on military installations worldwide and are only two of many other bugle calls used today. On Army and Air Force bases, Reveille is played in the early morning to signify the raising of the American Flag and the official start of the duty day. On Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard bases, the flag is raised at 0800 during the Morning Colors ceremony while the National Anthem or To the Colors is played. During Reveille/Morning Colors, civilians should stand quietly and face the flag with their right hand over their heart while service members should salute. Retreat or To the Colors is played when the flag is lowered and signifies the official end of the duty day. If you are within sight or hear the sound of the National Anthem or bugle, you should stand quietly facing the flag with your right hand over your heart. If you are in your car, safely stop your car until the anthem or bugle call is finished. Vehicle occupants should sit quietly during this time but service members in uniform must exit the vehicle, stand at attention, and salute. Celebrations and Ceremonies Branch Birthdays Each service branch may recognize and celebrate its own birthday. Celebration activities can include VIP speakers, demonstrations, and other various activities. For example, the Air Force may conduct an Air Show at selected bases. The Army may have concerts, balls, and dinners. The Marines typically perform an historic silent drill. The Navy may conduct worship services accompanied by an orchestra. Regardless of the branch or the celebration, service branches may decide to work only a half-day or work a full day but with the minimal personnel required to support day-to-day operations on the installations (e.g., base, post station). Service branch members in each unit participate in these ceremonies and civilians are cordially invited to attend. Change of Command Ceremony The change of command ceremony is an official passing of responsibilities of command of a unit from one officer to another. Each branch of service may tailor the ceremony according to its respective tradition. Service members in each unit participate in this ceremony and civilians are cordially invited to attend. Retirement Ceremonies When a service member retires, a ceremony is held in the retiree s honor at which time various awards and decorations are given in recognition of career achievements and contributions to the unit. This ceremony marks a distinguished career and honors a retiree s dedicated commitment to serving his or her country. The retiree s commander presides over the ceremony with family, coworkers, and friends usually present. All personnel military and civilian who worked with the retiring member or contributed to his or her successful career, should try to attend this special formal ceremony. The member may use his or her own discretion when choosing whether to have a retirement ceremony. 4/7/ P age

37 Promotion Ceremonies This type of ceremony recognizes a service member for successfully progressing to the next rank. Promotions are the result of attaining a specific score on a series of tests, as well as having a favorable job performance report. Oftentimes, members are recommended for a step promotion secondary to exceptional job performance, by going above and beyond the call of duty. Each branch of service conducts this ceremony according to its customs. Usually, a senior ranking officer presides over this formal or informal ceremony, which includes pinning on the new rank. All personnel military and civilian who worked with the person being promoted should try to attend this special ceremony. Return from the War Zone or Reunion Ceremonies Homecoming the return of Active Duty service members from the war zone - is a very exciting time for service members and family members alike. Oftentimes, some kind of celebratory preparations will be made such as music, videos, or even a podium where there will be speeches made in honor of the homecoming service members. Each installation will have its own customs that are followed at homecoming. Many times, family members are not notified of their service member s return until 24 hours before arrival, and even then, the arrival time frequently changes. Commendations A commendation is an award or a medal given in recognition of a service member s exceptional work performance over a period of time during their previous or current assignment. A commendation is not considered a promotion, but can aid collectively in the promotion process. Each branch of service can choose to conduct a formal ceremony for this purpose, according to its individual customs. Usually, the commander or a designated senior ranking officer will preside over this ceremony, which includes pinning the commendation to the member s uniform. At times, this ceremony is conducted during Commander s Call or briefing. 4/7/ P age

38 Military Directives, Instructions and Law INSIDE THIS SECTION At the conclusion of this section, you will understand the role the following play in the military environment: Department of Defense DoD and Service Branch Directives UCMJ JAG Corp Military Legal Entitles Overview Although the military is one of the most dynamic, flexible, and adaptive organizations, it relies on written direction and order. Many wonder why it seems easy for the military to be so disciplined, procedure oriented, and rule/law abiding. There are too many reasons to list, but know that service members have to follow good order and discipline or the mission simply fails. As a civilian, you must understand that service members are taught from day one to follow their leaders and support their team members in war, which transcends into the peacetime environment. An IC who just completed a rotation at a military installation provided the following insight: While working on a military installation for three days I had the following observations. The same people are running on the installation track every day, the very same time every day. No matter where I conducted business on the installation, people knew and followed procedures. This section reviews the types of military directives, discipline, and justice and the relevance to the service members lives: Department of Defense Directives Service Branch Directives Uniform Code of Military Justice (UMCJ) Judge Advocate General Function Military Legal Response Department of Defense The United States Department of Defense (DoD) is the federal department charged with coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the government relating directly to national security and the military. The organization and functions of the DoD are set forth in Title 10 of the United States Code. The DoD is the major tenant of the Pentagon, with the Armed Service components the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Marines, and the U.S. Navy. Both DoD and the service branches rely on directives and instructions to accomplish their respective missions. 4/7/ P age

39 Directives and Instructions A directive is a DoD or military communication in which policy is established or a specific action is ordered. Broadly speaking, it is any communication that initiates or governs action, conduct, or procedure. An instruction is similar to a directive in that it communicates command policy, but an instruction explains or lists procedures. Service members are obligated to and held accountable by DoD directives as well as directives for their individual service branches. Individual service branch directives are an extension of DoD directives, and are commonly developed to meet the requirements of a specific service branch mission. See the DoD directive and instruction examples listed here as well as the information and links in Appendix B. DoD Directive : Family Advocacy Support DoD Instruction : Personal Financial Management for Service Members Service Branch Directives and Instructions Individual service branches have additional directives specific to their branch. Some examples include: Army Directive : Deployment Cycle Support Air Force Instruction : Personal Financial Management Marine Corp Order A: Family Care Plans Navy MILPERSMAN : Family Contract and Assistance During Deployment Coast Guard Commandant Instruction COMDTINST1750.7: Family Advocacy Program Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) The foundation of military law, the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) was passed by Congress and signed into law by Harry S. Truman in May All service members are under the legal jurisdiction of the UCMJ, as well as Constitutional laws. The UCMJ contains 12 subchapters and 140 Articles dealing with various facets of military law. Several Article examples include: Article 1 contains terms and definitions that will help you understand UCMJ language. For example, the Judge Advocate General (JAG) refers to the Judge Advocates General of the Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force and the General Counsel of the Department of Transportation Homeland Security (except when the Coast Guard is operating as a service in the Navy). Article 15 refers to non-judicial punishment that can be imposed upon unit members by their commanding officer. Articles 77 through 134 known as the punitive articles, they specify offenses that if violated can result in punishment by court-martial. Judge Advocate General (JAG) The Judge Advocate General s Corps, also known as JAG, refers to the judicial arm of any of the United States armed forces, consisting of autonomous departments in the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy. They are charged with the defense and prosecution of military law as provided in the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Officers of the Corps are the chief officers of the court-martial and court of inquiry. The JAG Corps also provides service members with a wide range of legal services free of charge, and supports military combat operations by advising commanders on the law of armed conflict. 4/7/ P age

40 Role of Military Police Military police are concerned with law enforcement including criminal investigation (such as in instances of sexual assault and domestic violence) on military property and concerning military personnel, installation security, close personal protection of senior military officers, management of prisoners of war, management of military prisons, and traffic control. The military Police Corps maintains discipline and enforces the law in the United States Army. The Marine Corps version is referred to as the Provost Marshal s Office. Additionally, personnel assigned to the Master-at-Arms branch fill the same role in the United States Navy and the Coast Guard and at times are aided by temporary members of the Shore Patrol. The United States Air Force is policed by the Air Force Security Forces, formerly called the Security Police. Each branch of service also maintains uniformed civilian police departments. They are referred to as Department of Defense (DoD) Force Protection (formerly known as Pentagon Police), Department of Defense Police, Department of Defense Guard, Department of the Army (DA) Police, or Department of the Army Guard. The police officers peacetime duties are the same as those of civilian police officers, namely to enforce the laws of the U.S. Military in the form of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), and the regulations of their particular installation. The civilian guards duties are normally restricted to protection of priority resources. Criminal investigation in the United States Armed Forces are carried out by separate agencies: The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS a civilian agency), the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), The Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), and the Marine Corps Military Police Investigations (MPI). 4/7/ P age

41 Career Paths and Veterans At the conclusion of this section, you will be able to: Understand enlisted and officer career paths Identify the services member s transition into becoming a veteran Identify veteran issues and locate multiple veteran resources Overview Many people are generally aware that service members use a recruiter to enter the military and eventually retire or separate. However, many civilians do not understand what happens in the time between entering the service and when a service member retires or separates. This section describes the career path options of enlisted and officer service members, as well as issues associated with outgoing service members transition in becoming a civilian and veteran. Enlisted Service Member A civilian who chooses to become an active duty service member (recruit) enlists through local recruiters. The recruit must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test (ASVAB), pass a comprehensive physical examination exam, and be sworn in. The ASVAB plays an integral part in determining the recruit s job, which is referred to as the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). The recruit will attend the following training: Basic Military Training (BMT) Other war fighting (service branch specific) Designated MOS training After completing the required training program, the active duty service member will typically be transferred to his or her primary duty installation. While at duty installation, the enlisted active member will perform MOS related duties and continually receive deployment training to prepare for war. Depending on the needs of the service, the enlisted service member may or may not remain at the initial duty installation. After three to four years, many enlisted service members will receive professional military development. This pattern may continue until the enlisted service member is eligible to leave or retire out of his or her respective service branch. An enlisted active duty Marine s career path may progress this way: Johnny Garza is a 19-year-old Private First Class (E-2) who enlisted in the Marines immediately after graduating from high school. Several months after enlisting, Johnny completed his basic and MOS training, and received orders to his first duty installation. He enlisted for an eight-year term, which includes four years of active duty and four years in the Individual Ready Reserves (IRR). Near the end of the four-year active duty enlistment period, Johnny s options are to reenlist, get out and be placed in the IRR, join another service branch, or join a reserve unit. If Johnny decides to reenlist, he may serve at his current location or be transferred to another installation. Johnny may continue to reenlist until he accrues twenty years of service, and becomes eligible for retirement. If Johnny chooses to get out after the four-year active duty period, he will roll into the IRR and become a civilian for the next four years, but still will 4/7/ P age

42 be subject to deploy. Once the four-year period IRR is complete, Johnny becomes a civilian. It may be that Johnny finds that another service fulfills his needs better, so he will work with a prior service recruiter of that service. Johnny may decide to join a reserve unit where he will serve his country by conducting drills. The latter of the two options will be contingent on several factors to include, but not limited to, Johnny being medically and physically fit for duty, as well as his record of conduct. Officer Service Member Compared to the enlisted service member s career path, the officer career path has additional programs and entry requirements. The qualification and selection process to become an officer is more stringent than those of the enlisted service member. If accepted, officer candidates enter the military through the following service branch commissioning programs: Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Officer Candidate or Training School (OCS/OTS-Air Force) United States Military Service Academies Army-West Point, New York Air Force-Colorado Springs, Colorado Navy and Marines-Annapolis, Maryland Coast Guard New London Connecticut ROTC The ROTC program is a college scholarship program for civilians, leading to a commission and Bachelor s degree in one of the service branches. As part of the curriculum, there is a focus on leadership development and military skills. The ROTC participants maintain a normal academic schedule similar to all college students. Upon completion of the ROTC program, graduates are commissioned as Second Lieutenants/Ensigns in their respective service branch. Following graduation from ROTC, scholarship graduates typically have a minimum military service obligation (to serve on active duty) for four years. An active duty Army officer s career path may progress this way: Jennifer Barker is a 22-year old Second Lieutenant (0-1) who entered the Army s ROTC program as a cadet shortly after graduating from high school. Jennifer met the ROTC eligibility requirements and received a four-year ROTC scholarship at the University of Texas (UTA). Along with her required college classes, she completed various elective leadership courses and was awarded a Bachelor degree. After graduation from UTA and completing ROTC, Jennifer completed additional officer, deployment and MOS training.jennifer has a four-year active duty military service obligation to the Army. After this four-year term is completed, Jennifer s options are to, get out and be placed in the IRR, join a different service branch, join a reserve unit, or continue her service career and become eligible for retirement after twenty years. If Jennifer decides to stay in the Army, she may serve at her current location or be relocated to another installation and will be subject to deploy. If Jennifer chooses to get out after fulfilling her military service organization period, she will transfer into the IRR and become mostly a civilian for the next four years, but still subject to deploy. Once that four year IRR period is complete, Jennifer becomes a civilian. 4/7/ P age

43 OCS/OTS At OCS/OTS, officer candidates are taught the profession of arms, leadership, and communication, as well as other military courses. There are three categories of OCS candidates: College graduates (civilians) Current military (enlisted) Direct commission (doctors, lawyers, chaplains, and other professionals) Even though very competitive, college graduates and current military members do not compete with each other for available positions. College graduate applicants (civilians) are selected by a board through the service branch recruiting commands. Current military members (enlisted) are selected by a board convened by their service personnel organizations. Direct commission candidates have special skills critical to sustaining military operations typically from the health, scientific, and legal fields. All OCS graduates serve a minimum of three years on active duty following graduation from OCS. United States Military Service Academies Probably the most well-known of all commissioning programs (but may be the hardest to qualify for) is the United Military Service Academies. The United Military Service Academies are educational institutions that prepare candidates for service in the military. Officer candidates attend a four-year fully accredited university program and receive a Bachelor s degree; most are commissioned as second lieutenants/ensigns. While measured on academics, candidates are closely evaluated on demonstrated leadership, athletics and character. Admission to the academies is open to civilians and to enlisted service members. To qualify for the academies, candidates typically must have high academic records, participation in sports and strong letters of recommendation from high profile people. Retirement Retirement typically is the capstone of a service member s career path. It is a very positive milestone often shared with peers and family. Most people identify military retirement as an accumulation of twenty years or more of serving one s country, and then becoming eligible to receive retirement pay (pension). Interestingly, some civilians may not know that retired personnel are a resource of trained individuals who may be used to relieve active component or Ready Reserve members for other duties; or to accomplish operational missions as needed. Further, at any time the Secretary of a military department may order a 20 year active duty retired service member (retiree) back to active duty without consent in the interest of national defense. All military retirees are categorized by: age, length of time after retirement, and whether or not an individual has a disability that would preclude recall in a mobilization. Category I military retirees are those within their first five year of retirement, are under age 60, and are not disabled. Category II are those who have been retired more than five years, are under age 60, and are not disabled. Category III includes all others, including those who are disabled. 4/7/ P age

44 Veteran Determining what constitutes a veteran can be a challenge for civilians. The term veteran is commonly applied to those who served in a branch of the military for an entire career, usually twenty years or more. A common misconception is that one had to have been in combat (i.e., Vietnam-combat veteran) to be called a military veteran. Even though the common examples describe a veteran, it is not the official definition of a veteran. So, what is a veteran? According to United States Code 38 Veteran s Benefit s Par 1-General Provisions, Section 101-Definitions, the definition of a veteran is a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service; and who was discharged or released there under conditions other than dishonorable. Veteran Information: Veteran Issues For many civilians, understanding issues veterans face may be difficult. It is important to understand these issues may begin prior to separating from the military. Some key veteran issues are a result of: Leaving the military Transitioning back to civilian life Various family issues Understanding VA medical benefits Leaving the Military About a year or more before actually getting out of the military, a service member may decide to leave the military. During this timeframe, a service member may experience a variety of concerns. First, the service member may feel financially insecure given that he or she has received a steady paycheck and benefits for four years or more. Second, a service member may have many questions about the transition itself such as what do I do now? or how will I adjust to civilian life? For many service members, leaving the military is a huge personal decision, and it can be very easy to second guess. Leaving the military can be a trying time for an outgoing service member and he or she may have difficulty identifying appropriate resources to answer many questions. Fortunately, the service member can obtain transition counseling from the installation Transition Assistance Office. Transition Assistance counselors ensure a separating service member receives the necessary information and assistance to completely benefit from a wide range of available services and entitlements. A few of the services provided by the Transition office include: Career/employment assistance Information on VA Benefits Financial planning 4/7/ P age

45 Transition Assistance Counselors are located in the following offices at local military installations: Army: Army Career and Alumni Program Air Force: Airman and Family Readiness Center Navy: Fleet and Family Support Center Marine Corps: Career Resource Management Center(CRMC)/Transition and Employment Assistance Program Center Included in the scope of services under the MFLC program is counseling support of outgoing service members going through this transition to not only communicate transition resources, but also to stress to service members that they should be proactive in using available resources. To the outgoing service member, being knowledgeable and prepared will facilitate a better transition in becoming a veteran who will understand veteran programs, eligibility, and benefits. Most transition assistance professionals recommend service members identify and begin using all available resources twelve months prior to separation from military service Transitioning to Civilian Life When a service member transitions from the military life, he or she may come across several issues. One issue might be how to get accustomed to the idea of becoming a veteran. When a service member thinks of himself or herself as a veteran, it can instill great pride, but also reinforce the reality of no longer belonging to the military community. As a result of that feeling, a service member and his or her family may feel unsure about the future and be unaware of available options. Prior to leaving the military, the service member will greatly benefit with assistance in identifying issues that commonly impede the transition back to civilian life. Some of these issues may center on: The service member/spouse s existing skill set Job preparation skills Depending on the service member s skill set he or she may have difficulty finding a job in the civilian market. A young soldier may be great at performing tank maneuvers, but those skills may not be transferable to various civilian companies. His or her spouse may not have transferable job skills either, especially for the younger military couples with less work experience. A service member may not have critical job preparation skills, such as identifying job resources, research techniques, writing resumes, and interviewing skills. Not only is identification of programs and resources important, identifying solid dynamic web resources is pivotal for a successful transition. One notable program is the Transition Assistance Program (TAP), which is a partnership among the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, Transportation and the Department of Labor s Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS). TAP provides employment and training information to members of the armed forces within 180 days of separation or retirement. As a part of TAP, there is a great resource called TurboTAP. TurboTAP is a user-friendly interactive web portal that provides transition assistance planning tools 4/7/ P age

46 to separating service members and their families. TurboTAP is considered by most as a one-stop shop web resource. For career planning, service members can use the TurboTAP Employment Hub, which provides the following: Steps to getting a great job Job searching sites Key federal employment sites Job hunting tools Various Family Issues Service members and their families encounter many issues as they transition from the military to civilian life. It is important for you to recognize family issues that are considered more common or prevalent among military families. Some common family issues include: Adjusting outside of the military lifestyle Understanding the VA system and processes Adjusting Outside of the Military Lifestyle The military lifestyle differs from civilian life; it offers a strong sense of family. Unfortunately, many military families will not notice the impact until they leave this strong family type of environment. Further, military families who live on the installation may miss the military more and need ample time to adjust to this transition. While on an installation, families have many friends and resources at their fingertips. The families who already live off the installation may need less time to adjust, as they may have started using web based and community resources, rather than relying on an installation social network. Also, families who live off the installation are frequently conditioned to the civilian environment and its challenges. Nevertheless, all families leaving the military also have to adjust to leaving the military lifestyle. Understanding the VA System and Processes The VA system with its multitude of programs and benefits can be very challenging to learn. Regardless of the challenge, it is crucial for families to learn as much as they can about the VA system and processes. Specifically, families need to identify the VA benefits. The VA has a comprehensive website, which includes information on healthcare, benefits, education, and Kids Page for children. Veterans and Injury When service members are seriously injured in war, they often are medically discharged and eligible to receive service-connected disability compensation. Addressing significant medical issues for veterans can be a daunting task for a young untested spouse. Some injured veterans may never be able to work. Many injured veterans cannot work until they are finished with rehabilitation. When the veteran completes rehabilitation, he or she may find it difficult to find a job. Additionally, the veteran s spouse may miss work to take the veteran to the VA for medical and/or rehabilitation treatment. Regardless of the situation, injuries are significant issues that place many veterans and their families resources in financial peril. 4/7/ P age

47 The VA s Vocational Rehabilitation and Education (VR&E) provides vocational rehabilitation services to veterans with service-connected disabilities, as well as educational and vocational counseling for eligible service members, veterans, and veteran s dependents. It is vital for a service member and his or her spouse to know the VA medical programs and resources, and, to make special arrangements for medical needs. VA Medical Benefits Eligibility: Each state within the United States sets specific criteria for state-specific veteran s benefits. For federal medical benefits from VA hospitals, prior to September 7, 1980, the veteran must have served at least 24 continuous months. However, if the veteran was medically discharged and receives a VA service-connected disability stipend, the served status time limits are not applicable. Access to VA Medical Benefits (Where and How) Disability: A service member will be informed of his or her VA medical benefits from an installation representative as he or she administratively out processes the installation. Each installation will typically have a VA sponsored Benefits Delivery at Discharge program called Disabled American Veterans (DAV) that assists service members with VA disability compensation claims prior to discharge. The DAV program is designed to foster continuity of care between the military and VA systems, and expedites the VA s processing of the application for compensation. Under this program, active duty service members may file claims for mental and/or physical conditions that occurred while on active duty. Once a VA official reviews the service member s claims application and medical records, the service member will be scheduled for a medical exam. After the medical exam, a VA representative will determine if the veteran will be awarded compensation and the percentage amount of compensation. Healthcare: Eligibility for VA healthcare is usually dependent on a number of variables, which may influence the final determination of the services for which a veteran qualifies. These factors can include: The nature of discharge from military service (e.g., honorable, other than honorable, dishonorable) Length of service VA determination on service connected disability claims Income level Available VA resources Generally, a veteran must be enrolled in the VA healthcare system to receive benefits offered in the Medical Benefits Package. For VA healthcare benefits, including enrollment, a veteran must fill out an enrollment application and forms. Transitional Healthcare Insurance: Following the loss of entitlement to military medical benefits, service members may apply for temporary transitional medical coverage under the Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP). CHCBP is a premium-based health care program providing medical coverage to a select group of former military beneficiaries. As of April 2008, DoD contracted with Humana Military Healthcare Services, Inc. to administer the CHCBP. The CHCBP program extends health care coverage to the following individuals when they lose military benefits: Certain former spouses who have not remarried Children who lose military coverage 4/7/ P age

48 Military Programs, Services and Resources At the conclusion of this section, you will be able to: Identify key military programs and resources Provide appropriate referrals to military services and resources Overview As discussed in section 2.0, service members and their families face some challenges that many civilian families never have to deal with. Fortunately, each branch of service offers resources, programs, and services to help military families cope with specific issues common to everyday family life. Family members can receive services from any military installation, though availability will vary according to installation staffing, active duty population, and geographical location. For those who do not live near an installation, many programs exist (including the MFLC Program) that specifically target reaching these geographically dispersed service members and their families and many of the services can be provided via telephone or . It is important to be aware that a stigma exists in which service members and their families may demonstrate reluctance to seek help to manage personal or financial issues. In the past there has been a pervasive feeling held by some members that to seek help is a demonstration of weakness or defect. All the services have and continue to press to dispel this belief. However, some members still carry a fear that revealing personal problems may adversely impact their or their spouse s chances for promotion or desirable assignment. The following scenario illustrates a time when a service member found one of the military programs helpful: As a young airman, stationed away from home for the first time, Denise was heartbroken when she learned that her father had died suddenly from a heart attack. Word that her unit was preparing for deployment and knowing that her limited resources made it impossible for her to get home to be with her family during a time of need only added to her stress. At the direction of her First Sergeant, Denise went to see her Chaplain. After speaking with him at length, Denise took the Chaplain s suggestion to visit the Air Force Aid Society. Much to her relief, Air Force Aid provided Denise with resources enough to allow her to return home. Also, with the support of her 1st Sergeant, Denise was able to be there long enough to help her family get matters settled and to attend her father s funeral. As shown in Denise s story, each branch of the military provides programs that directly support the needs of service members and their families. Chaplains Chaplains are an excellent resource for service members and other authorized personnel. Military chaplains and enlisted religious support personnel accompany U.S. forces wherever they are stationed. Chaplains provide spiritual guidance, personal counseling, and life issues counseling in a confidential setting. Chaplains are protected by the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which ensures confidentiality. Under military law, chaplains must keep conversations confidential when service members seek their spiritual guidance, either as a formal act of religion or a matter of conscience. Chaplains do not have to keep conversations confidential when a service member speaks with them for reasons other than spiritual guidance. 4/7/ P age

49 When it is in the best interest of the person involved, the chaplain is expected to assist the individual in identifying the appropriate means of self-disclosure without violating the individual s trust. Chaplains are ordained by individual religious denominations before they join the military. Once commissioned as officers in the Army, Navy or Air Force (Navy Chaplains serve with the Marine Corps and Coast Guard), they provide religious worship services and ministrations within their denomination to service members and their families worldwide. Service members commonly seek out Chaplains within the same religious denomination; however, service members may consult with Chaplains of different denominations. The Chaplains mission is to nurture the living, care for the sick or the wounded, minister to prisoners or prisoners of war, and honor the dead. Chaplains also assist service members and their families in dealing with personal concerns such as faith issues, stress, anxiety, redeployment or reunion issues, moral and ethical values, and social concerns. For many service members, Chaplains are the first person they turn to for help outside their chain of command. In this role, Chaplains help to resolve problems by making referrals to command channels, appropriate programs, or social service agencies. They also assist military personnel in requesting emergency leave, compassionate reassignments, and hardship discharges. Financial Assistance Programs The ability to manage personal finances is challenging for many Americans, and likewise for our young service members of the Armed Forces. Service members are challenged to build skills in creating budget plans, reducing debt, and saving for future emergencies and retirement. Personal financial problems have become a growing problem that can impact mission readiness. To assist our service members in developing personal financial skills, the Department of Defense (DoD) has initiated an education and awareness program called The Financial Readiness Campaign to help military personnel effectively deal with financial issues. Below are only a few examples of financial programs and services offered to service members and their families. Personal Financial Readiness Program As part of the DoD Financial Readiness Campaign, the Personal Financial Readiness Program (PFRP) for each service branch helps both military and civilian personnel with personal finances through information, education, and individual counseling. PFRP focus on prevention and sound financial planning. Financial fitness begins with the First Term/First Duty Station briefings. PFRP classes teach fundamentals like checkbook management, budgeting, consumer finance, insurance, and financial planning Personal Financial Counselors (PFCs) augment the programs and services provided by partner organizations and installation Personal Financial Managers. PFCs provide educational and counseling services to service members and their families. PFCs refer to the same financial resources that are used at both the national and installation levels. Air Force Aid Society Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) is a private non-profit organization whose mission is to help relieve financial distress of Air Force members and their families and assist them in financing their higher education goals. Active duty and retired Air Force members and their dependents are eligible for AFAS assistance, as are the dependents of deceased Air Force personnel who died on active duty or in retired status. Reservists and National Guard members serving on extended active duty over 30 days are eligible as well, but assistance is limited to emergencies related to or resulting from the applicant s active duty tour. 4/7/ P age

50 Army Emergency Relief Army Emergency Relief (AER) is the Army s own emergency financial assistance organization and is dedicated to Helping the Army Take Care of Its Own. AER provides commanders a valuable asset in accomplishing basic command responsibility for the morale and welfare of soldiers. Funds are made available to commanders to provide emergency financial assistance to soldiers active and retired and their dependents when there is a valid need. The AER funds made available to commanders are not limited and are constrained only by the requirement of valid need; for these reasons the AER assistance program is conducted within the Army structure by major commanders and their installation/organization commanders through AER sections and other related organizations. Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society is a private, nonprofit organization that helps the Navy and Marine Corps take care of their own. It may provide financial assistance for a variety of valid needs, ranging from the costs of setting up a household to disaster relief. However, the Relief Society does not assist with the purchase of nonessentials, nor does it supplement the income of persons living beyond their means. Interest-free loans, grants, or a combination of loans and grants may also be approved. Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) is the official relief society of the U.S. Coast Guard. CGMA is a nonprofit charitable organization established to provide financial aid to the entire Coast Guard family. Its mission is to promote the financial stability and general well-being of Coast Guard people through interest-free loans, grants, and financial counseling. Military Family Support Organizations These installation programs support mission readiness by helping individuals and families adapt to the changes and demands of military life. You may often interact with personnel who work within these programs. MFLC counselors may partner with these professionals to support service members and families. Listed below is a snapshot of the respective service branch family support programs. To learn more about these organizations, you are strongly encouraged to visit the Military Family Support Organization links in the note section. ICs can benefit from familiarizing themselves with these programs for referral purposes, and for building solid supportive relationships with the personnel who manage them. Army Community Service (ACS): Army Community Service is a team that provides comprehensive support including financial, employment, and family readiness for soldiers and family. Airman and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC): The Airman and Family Readiness Center Program is designed to assist commanders in providing for the health and welfare of the military community. Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS): MCCS is the single point of contact and service provider for over 80 programs and services available on installations for service members while deployed, or in independent duty environments. Fleet and Family Support Program (FFSP): The Fleet and Family Support Program provide unified, customer-focused, consistent, and efficient support programs and services to sustain military commands and Navy readiness. The program provides the right services at the right time, to strengthen personal and family competencies of meeting the unique challenges of the military lifestyle. 4/7/ P age

51 Counseling Programs Each branch of service has policies and procedures mandating behavioral health treatment programs. These programs include intervention and prevention for both mental health and substance abuse issues that include but are not limited to treating stress and depression, preventing suicidal thoughts, and developing treatment strategies for working through chemical dependency. Local agencies and resources are available to help when someone has a problem. Military leaders are given the responsibility of matching the needs of service members with available resources. Each installation has a branch of community services called Family Centers, which coordinate with representatives from each of the helping agencies on base. They routinely work with other agencies to identify base-wide needs and to coordinate the delivery and referral of services to meet those needs. The goal of these services is to ensure the readiness of the troops. Included within the Family Centers are services for military families such as counseling for children and families, career counseling for military spouses, and parent/family member education. If service members or their families are in need of alternatives to those included in the Family Centers, they can access professional counseling services through Military OneSource. Military & Family Life Counselor (MFLC): Service to our nation places a tremendous burden on military families. American military personnel and their families face an unprecedented array of stressors and adverse situations today that impact their operational, personal, and family lives. The Office of the Secretary of Defense s MFLC Program is a key opportunity to assist service members and families worldwide by augmenting existing military and civilian services. The MFLC program provides shortterm, solution-focused, non-medical counseling services to service members and family members of all Active Duty Military Service branches, the National Guard, and the Reserve Component. This program offers support for deployment, reintegration, and other military lifestyle stressors. Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC): The Department of Defense does not tolerate sexual assault and has implemented a comprehensive policy that reinforces a culture of prevention, response, and accountability to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of all members of the Armed Forces. Military leaders both on installations and while deployed in theater, have readily accessible, valuable sexual assault response resources for information and support. Military units have assigned Sexual Abuse Response Coordinators (SARCs) who have received comprehensive training in preventing and responding to sexual assault. Units also have a Uniformed Victim Advocate who serves as an advocate for the alleged victim in cases of sexual assault. Volunteer Programs Volunteerism is vital to the success of the military effort. From military spouses to outside community groups, volunteer networks are essential in providing everything from support for the transition of new military families, to communication between command and the families of deployed units, as well as support for families experiencing casualty issues. While the American Red Cross, the National Military Family Association (NMFA), the Pentagon Family Assistance Program, and the Joint Family Readiness Groups provide support to service members and family members; each service branch has its own volunteer network on which it relies to ensure appropriate communication and primary support efforts. 4/7/ P age

52 Army Family Readiness Group: The Army Family Readiness Group (FRG) is a command-sponsored organization of family members, volunteers, soldiers and civilian employees associated with a particular unit. They are normally organized at company and battalion levels, and fall under the responsibility of the unit s commanding officer. FRGs are established to provide activities and support to enhance the flow of information; increase the resiliency of unit soldiers and their families; provide practical tools for adjusting to military deployments and separations; and enhance the well-being and esprit de corps within the unit. Air Force Key Spouse Network Program: The Key Spouse Program is an outreach effort of the Family Support Center that uses volunteer spouses in each unit to help address concerns of the families of deployed members and to assist in effective communication between the Commander and the families of airmen in the unit. The Marine Corps Key Volunteer Network: The Key Volunteer Network (KVN) is an official Marine Corps program whose mission is to be an integral part of the Commander s official family readiness program, and is the primary communication link between the commanding officer and unit families for the enhancement of mission readiness. The KVN is comprised of spouses of Marines within a unit who volunteer to assist the command in its family readiness program. The Key Volunteers and Key Volunteer Coordinator are appointed by the Commander and receive training in communication, information and referral, and other topics. Reflecting the Commanding Officer s guidance and policies, the Key Volunteer Network is formed within a unit to keep families better informed about the mission and tasks of the unit and to assist in establishing a sense of community among the unit families. Navy Family Ombudsman Program: Ombudsmen are volunteers married to a member of the command. They provide a communication link between the Commanding Officer and family members. Trained as Information and Referral Specialists (I&R Specialists), they provide information to families regarding but not limited to, command/navy policies, deployment schedules, and assistance to spouses when the service member is deployed. Navy commands including shore activities usually have an Ombudsman assigned. These services are provided through Fleet and Family Support Services. Children and Youth Programs Service programs for children and youth are readily available to military service members and their families. Military Leaders provide information about these vital resources during unit readiness briefs and during command sponsored orientations or indoctrinations. Many installations have children and youth programs that offer quality childcare services, school-age care, youth programs, resource services, and referral assistance. Although military child care is not guaranteed on installations, the resource and referral offices can assist service members, their families, and civilians in obtaining affordable quality child care arrangements in the local community. Installation-based children and youth programs provide care for children of service members and civilians from four weeks to age 18. Care for, and supervision of children is administered through a variety of methods, which include the following: School-Age Care (SAC) Program Child Development Center (CDC) Resource and Referral (R&R) Youth Programs Teen Programs In addition to installation resources, the DoD has engaged partners to assist in its efforts to provide maximum support to military families seeking childcare. 4/7/ P age

53 New Parent Support Program (NPSP): The New Parent Support Program (NPSP) is a voluntary home visitation program for parents expecting a baby and for parents of children up to the age of three. The program is designed to reduce stressors that can increase the risk of child abuse and neglect; and to strengthen parent s knowledge and skills so that they can provide environments where their children can thrive. There are two levels of NPSP. The first level, NPSP Standard, offers parent education assistance, home-visit services, and referrals to other programs. The second level is NPSP Plus, which is more intensive and targeted to families at higher risk for child abuse. Parents can request NPSP services on their own or through their healthcare provider, their service member s commander, or family support program staff. This program is available to parents who live on installations and in the civilian community. Through the NPSP, a staff member will visit the family s home and talk to the parents about any concerns they have about parenting and/or other causes of stress in their lives. The NPSP staff member will work with the family members to help them cope with those concerns and stressors in the healthiest way possible. Whenever possible, both parents are encouraged to participate in the program. For information on Children and Youth Programs and NPSP see the links in the notes section. Legal Assistance Active duty service members, activated Reserve and Guard members, and their family members are eligible to seek aid and assistance from any military installation where there is a legal assistance office. A Legal Assistance Officer provides counseling and assistance with personal legal problems, claim services, and trial defense services. Available legal advice and assistance includes: Wills Civil rights Citizenship Depositions Bills of Sale Notarizations Change of name Powers of Attorney Immigrations and passports Damage to personal property Referral to civilian lawyers when appropriate Domestic relations (adoption, separation, non-support) 4/7/ P age

54 Military Benefits At the conclusion of this section, you will be able to: Identify key military benefits Be familiar with eligibility requirements Overview Along with the many programs and services in the military, there exists an array of military benefits offered to service members and their families. You may, within the scope of your contract, need to advise active duty, guard, reserve members, and their families of alternative referral sources and how to determine their eligibility for those benefits. Here is an example: Jack Miller joined the Army National Guard after finishing high school. While completing his college degree, he met and married his wife, Jennifer. They have been married for twelve years and have 3 children. In January 2005, Jack s National Guard unit received orders that they would be mobilized and then activated in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in April. With their son having a history of severe asthma, Jack and Jennifer were concerned that they could not continue to pay their medical insurance premium and other out of pocket costs while Jack was deployed. However, during the unit s initial family readiness predeployment meeting, they learned that they were eligible to begin TRICARE benefits almost immediately. Being eligible for TRICARE benefits significantly lessen their overall medical expenses and alleviated their cost concerns. Unfortunately, while deployed, those tasks once shared by Jack and Jennifer such as caring for their son s medical issues fell solely on Jennifer. Jennifer s boss was less than supportive of her situation, so Jennifer contacted the Family Readiness Group leader for Jack s unit and was advised to contact Employment support for Guard and Reserve (ESGR). Through their mediation, Jennifer s situation at work was resolved. Because of the structure of the Guard and Reserve, not only must families often deal with issues less likely to affect active duty families, but they must also be made aware of the benefits that are available to them. Employment Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) The success of the nation s defense is dependent on the availability of highly trained members of the Total Force. Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve s role is to obtain employer and community support to ensure the availability and readiness of Reserve Forces. Activation of Guard and Reserve forces affects the entire family. As such, spouses are often called upon to take extra time off from their jobs to tend to issues directly or indirectly related to the respective activation. Thus, ESGR support is available to spouses as well, and has a national and local organizational structure to support all those in need. Other Service Branch and Community Resources There are many service-branch specific and community-based employment opportunities for military spouses. Each branch of service has an Employment Assistance Program to assist spouses and other family members in reaching their career goals. The Employment Assistance Program is provided to all members of the Active Duty and Reserve Component of the military. 4/7/ P age

55 Within the program, specially trained counselors help military spouses, family members, and DoD military personnel find public and private sector employment. This program offers workshops, career counseling, selfemployment skills, job referrals, guidance on self-employment in government quarters, and more. The following outlines several service-branch and community based resources that also provide employment assistance. The Military Spouse Resource Center: website provides thousands of links for military spouses and families, including local/regional job openings, childcare, education and training. Army Employment Readiness Program: The goal of the Army Community Service Employment Readiness Program is to assist families with the challenges associated with the job search, taking into consideration the mobile military lifestyle. Army Spouse Employment Program: This section of the Army Community Service website contains the links to the 13 corporate and 2 Military Agency Partners, including information on the companies and employment opportunities. Marine Corps Family Member Employment Assistance Program (FMEAP): FMEAP was developed to assist active duty military family members, as well as reservists, retirees and civilians, with job search guidance and one-on-one employment assistance counseling. Navy Spouse Employment Assistance Program (SEAP): The SEAP program assists Navy spouses with job searches, career planning, resume writing, interview techniques, federal employment, selfassessments, goal setting, and vocational tests. Air Force Family Member Assistance Program: The employment section of Air Force Crossroads helps military spouses and family members by providing job-hunting information and assistance, telecommuting opportunities, and resume development. Operation Career Front (Home Depot): This employment assistance program was developed by Home Depot and is designed to recruit military spouses and separating military personnel. USA Jobs: This job bank lists federal employment opportunities. Applicants may search for employment by location, job category, or salary range. Medical Benefits and Services The Military Health System (MHS) provides medical care to active duty military personnel, eligible military retirees, and eligible dependents of both groups. The primary mission of the medical services system is to be prepared to deliver health care required during wartime and to maintain the health of military personnel so they can carry out their military missions. The Army Medical Department (AMEDD) manages the care of the Soldier and Military Family and provides quality, accessible, cost-effective health services. They have the responsibility to assure that soldiers and their families, if they get hurt, will receive the best possible care and will have the best possible chances of recovering to full health. Additionally, the staffs of the AMEDD believe it is their responsibility to reassure deployed soldiers that their families back home will also receive quality healthcare. The Air Force Medical Service (AFMS) works in close coordination with the Department of the Army, Navy, and other government agencies to deliver medical service for more than 2.63 million eligible beneficiaries active duty, family members, and retirees during both peacetime and wartime. The Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery is the headquarters command for Navy Medicine. Navy Medicine provides high quality, economical health care to beneficiaries in wartime and in peacetime. Highly trained Navy Medicine personnel deploy with 4/7/ P age

56 Sailors and Marines worldwide. At the same time, Navy Medicine s military and civilian healthcare professionals are providing care for uniformed services family members and retirees at military treatment facilities around the globe. Recently, the DoD and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) formed a partnership to focus on healthcare services for wounded service members. Through this partnership, the departments are redoubling efforts to focus on providing service members more personalized care and services. Since 1966, civilian medical care for dependents of active duty personnel and for retirees and their dependents (under the age of 65) has been available through Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services known as CHAMPUS. As a follow-up to CHAMPUS, the DoD established TRICARE to coordinate the efforts of the services medical facilities. TRICARE provides beneficiaries the opportunity to receive their care through a DoD- managed health maintenance organization. TRICARE TRICARE is a regionally managed healthcare program for Active Duty, activated Guard and Reserves, Retired members of the uniformed services, their families, and survivors. Active Duty and activated Guard and Reserve service members are automatically enrolled in TRICARE Prime. However, military dependents and retirees must choose the TRICARE option that best suits their needs. In 2004, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs stressed the importance of the Reserve Component meeting the same standard of military readiness as their active duty counterparts at time of mobilization and deployment. An essential component of overall military readiness is medical readiness. It ensures a fit and healthy force for deployment and employment. The DoD policy specifies that all service members must be physically and mentally fit to carry out their mission. Therefore, members of the National Guard and Reserve (collectively known as the Reserve Component, or RC) who are issued delayed-effective-date active duty orders more than 30 days in support of a contingency operation are now eligible for early TRICARE medical and dental benefits, as are their families. Guard and Reserve members and their families are not always aware of their benefits. They must be enrolled appropriately while the guardsman or reservist is activated. Then, if they are aware of how to change their enrollment correctly, transitional benefits are available to them up to 180 days after the guardsman or reservist is inactivated. Transitional Compensation The Transitional Compensation program is a financial compensation program for abused military family members. It is intended for family members of the service members who have been separated or discharged from military due to domestic violence. The program provides monthly payments (from 12 to 36 months) to qualified family members. The intent is to help recipients meet living expenses. Military OneSource Military OneSource is a DoD sponsored support service for military members and their families. Some of the vast Military OneSource services can assist with the following: 4/7/ P age

57 Military OneSource Military OneSource is a DoD sponsored support service for military members and their families. Some of the vast Military OneSource services can assist with the following: Child care Personal finances Relocation information Emotional support during deployments Resources needed for special circumstances Assistance through Military OneSource is provided at no cost to active duty, Guard and Reserve (regardless of activation status), and their families, 24/7/365 days a year. Services through Military OneSource are available by phone, online, and face-to-face through private counseling sessions in the local community. Personalized consultations on specific issues such as education, special needs, and finances are provided. Customized research detailing community resources and appropriate military referrals are offered through OneSource services. Clients can even receive help with simultaneous language interpretation and document translation services. Persons seeking counseling will receive up to six counseling sessions per issue at no cost. Military families can access a counselor in the local community or individuals may call a Military OneSource consultant directly. Counseling sessions may focus on issues such as normal reactions to abnormal situations (e.g. combat), couple concerns, work/life balance, grief and loss, adjustment to deployment, stress management, and parenting. Military OneSource has an interactive Website that includes locators for education, childcare, and elder care; online articles; referrals to military and community resources; financial calculators; live online workshops called Webinars; and options to a consultant. Additional resources include brief videos of consultants addressing common issues such as communicating as a couple, budgeting, and managing anger. As part of Military OneSource, Military HOMEFRONT is the official Department of Defense website for reliable quality of life information designed to help leaders, service providers, troops, and military families. This dynamic website not only helps military families; it can also provide information for those who support military families. Assistance through Military OneSource is provided at no cost to active duty, Guard and Reserve (regardless of activation status), and their families, 24/7/365 days a year. Services through Military OneSource are available by phone, online, and face-to-face through private counseling sessions in the local community. Personalized consultations on specific issues such as education, special needs, and finances are provided. Customized research detailing community resources and appropriate military referrals are offered through OneSource services. Clients can even receive help with simultaneous language interpretation and document translation services. Persons seeking counseling will receive up to six counseling sessions per issue at no cost. Military families can access a counselor in the local community or individuals may call a Military OneSource consultant directly. 4/7/ P age

58 Counseling sessions may focus on issues such as normal reactions to abnormal situations (e.g. combat), couple concerns, work/life balance, grief and loss, adjustment to deployment, stress management, and parenting. Military OneSource has an interactive Website that includes locators for education, childcare, and elder care; online articles; referrals to military and community resources; financial calculators; live online workshops called Webinars; and options to a consultant. Additional resources include brief videos of consultants addressing common issues such as communicating as a couple, budgeting, and managing anger. As part of Military OneSource, Military HOMEFRONT is the official Department of Defense website for reliable quality of life information designed to help leaders, service providers, troops, and military families. This dynamic website not only helps military families; it can also provide information for those who support military families. 4/7/ P age

59 Knowledge Self Check 1. When servicing military members under the MFLC II Contract it is found that military members will use their military Chain of command to communicate professional, but not personal, matters to their immediate supervisor. a) True b) False The correct answer is false. Using the chain of command, members of the military may communicate personal and professional matters to their immediate supervisor and/or their First Sergeant/Petty Officer. That person will then decide on and take the appropriate course of action such as elevating the matter further up the chain of command to the appropriate authority. Sometimes the service members may not feel comfortable so would rather speak to someone where their information is kept confidential. This is within the scope of work under the MFLC II Contract as long as it is not a DTW situation. 2. Why is the chain of command so important? a) It upholds the tradition of the military b) It indicates which rank deserves respect c) It demonstrates leadership structure, responsibility and helps to maintain order d) All of the above The correct answer is d - all of the above. The chain of command is one of the most important aspects of the military culture as it demonstrates leadership structure, responsibility, and helps to maintain order. The chain of command describes the organizational structure of the personnel in each branch of service. 3. Military life requires frequent relocations which brings many challenges, including meeting children s special education or medical needs. a) True b) False The answer is true. Due to frequent relocations of military members and their families it may often be difficult for families to make bonds within a community. Children in school often are relocated in the middle of the school year only to have to start all over to make friends. If a child has special needs, the resources that were in place in one location may have to be re-established if available in another location. This is especially challenging when children need specialized services. Spouses may feel isolated if they are not living on a base with others that understand the challenges of military life. 4/7/ P age

60 4. Due to military requirements for deployments and relocations service members and their families can experience physical and emotional isolation. a) True b) False The correct answer is True Many families are isolated in all aspects of their lives from physical isolation from their families and support systems to other areas of the country or overseas. There are times when the family cannot accompany the service member to a new location, for example when they are deployed. This leads to isolation for both the service member and their loved ones to be left without that person home. Likewise, the deployed service member has not been part of the family routine and when they reintegrate they don t feel part of the family and almost feel as if they are disrupting their family s normal routines. Sometimes families do not live on an installation in base housing so there is not the common bond of having other families that understand the lifestyle. All of these factors can lead to both emotional and physical isolation. 5. Social isolation in the military culture can be attributed to diversity, young parenthood, and early marriage, factors common in military families. a) True b) False The correct answer is true. As discussed in knowledge check example #4, there are many factors that can cause physical and emotional isolation. At times, military families may accompany the service member spouse when deployed to a foreign country. While there, they may experience culture shock around things like language barriers and currency exchange, they are exposed to many diverse cultures. Some young couples marry very young due to the benefits offered by the military for married couples and some are just afraid that if they are deployed without being married that the person at home may not wait for them. Other times, young couples have children very young so that there is a sense of unity in the child during deployments but are often not prepared for parenthood and the responsibilities that it carries. 6. When planning a homecoming, service and family members alike should: a) Remember to communicate b) Plan a homecoming around the service member s wishes c) Give everyone time to adjust to change d) All of the above The correct answer is d- All of the above. When a service member returns home there is now a different means of communicating. They may have been communicating through s, phone calls and skype, but not face to face. Often time s people feel that having a huge celebration is important and to have the service member have time to spend with family and old friends as a means of showing their love and happiness that the service member has returned. But the reintegration process is different for everyone, and it is important 4/7/ P age

61 for families to respect their loved ones wishes on what he/she needs at that important time. When service members are deployed they are in constant readiness for what could happen. The families have developed their own routines on how to get things done and when the service member returns, it disrupts that routine. This is often a common stress that is seen after the initial honeymoon period of being home subsides and reality sets in. 7. Military Chaplains are available to service members, but not their families, which is why most of the MFLC work is related to family members. a) True b) False The correct answer is False -The Chaplains mission is to nurture the living, care for the sick or the wounded, minister to prisoners or prisoners of war, and honor the dead. Chaplains also assist service members and their families in dealing with personal concerns such as faith issues, stress, anxiety, redeployment or reunion issues, moral and ethical values, and social concerns. For many service members, Chaplains are the first person they turn to for help outside their chain of command. In this role, Chaplains help to resolve problems by making referrals to command channels, appropriate programs, or social service agencies. They also assist military personnel in requesting emergency leave, compassionate reassignments, and hardship discharges. 8. It is appropriate for civilian contractors to call installation commanders by their first names once the contractor becomes familiar with them. a) True b) False The correct answer is false - Based on military protocol, it is appropriate for civilian personnel to address service members by their rank and last name (i.e., MSgt Jones, Corporal Smith, Gunnery Barnes, and Petty Officer Third Class Williams). When in doubt it is better to address a military member as sir or ma am rather than to guess and be wrong; it can be disrespectful or offensive. It is understood that you may find this difficult to master initially, especially if moving between the different service branches. However, it is extremely important because your mastery of rank and the correct form of address indicates your understanding of military culture and thus your willingness and ability to support it. 9. Service members who are in debt may lose their security clearance preventing them from performing certain duties and deploying overseas. a) True b) False 4/7/ P age

62 The correct answer is a- True- A service member is expected to pay financial obligations in a timely manner. As part of the business process, many loan and credit agencies often require the name and number of the service member s supervisor or First Sergeant. When a service member fails to pay financial obligations, his or her First Sergeant or Commander may be contacted and become involved. If involved, the financial indiscretion is documented, which might impede the member s career. Service members who are in debt may lose their security clearance preventing them from performing certain duties and deploying overseas. Additionally, limited income can decrease family participation in much needed recreational and welfare activities, further affecting the stress within the family. While providing service for these families, remember these issues add to the military family s stress. 10. When an issue regarding the abuse of alcohol is detected, it is important that the MFLC: a) Not mention it as it might cause further stress to the Service Member. b) Make the appropriate referral. c) Make the appropriate referral and take additional action to ensure the Service Member receives the additional help he/she needs The correct answer is c - Early detection of high risk behavior and intervention can significantly alleviate progression into more serious high risk behaviors and consequences. In the past nine years, over 9,000 Soldiers that demonstrated substance abuse issues were not referred appropriately for evaluation. Successful MFLCs not only act on detection of high risk behaviors but go beyond just making the referral per OSD guidelines. For example, a service member who is showing signs of emotional fatigue and admits to drinking heavily most nights of the week requires more than a discussion of healthy coping mechanisms and a referral to an appropriate treatment option. An effective response may include helping the service member talk to the commander of the unit he/she was deployed with last. Such encourage may even be an active and supportive effort like saying, Come on, I ll walk over there with you now to meet with him. The extra step of walking the walk that can make the difference and is the type of warm hand-off that OSD expects would like us to help initiate. OSD wants counselors under the MFLC Contract to assist the service members with warm hand-offs to appropriate resources and help them with that referral so they do not have to repeat their story. 11. The rank structure in the Armed Forces consists of: (C-Enlisted, Officers and Warrant Officers) 12. Leadership responsibility decreases as a service member progresses in rank. True or False (False) 13. Using the information on the Rank and Insignia Charts, identify the rank of the following insignia. (A-First Sergeant/E-7) (D-Major/O-4 (Gold) (B - Major General/O-8) (A - Master Sergeant/E-7) (B - Lieutenant Colonel/O-5) 4/7/ P age

63 14. What is a military chain of command? (Suggested Answer) The chain of command demonstrates the organizational structure of the military. 15. Using the chain of command, members of military communicate professional, but nor personal matters. (B-False) 16. Why is the chain of command so important? (C-It demonstrates leadership structure and responsibility and helps to maintain order) 17. Convert the following times into the military time: 4 o clock in the morning: answer o clock in the afternoon: answer o clock in the afternoon: answer o clock at night: answer The army often refers to its installations as an air station. True or False (False) 19. Fort Hood is the largest active duty Marine Post in the United States. True or False (False) 20. How should civilians address a CMSGT? (Chief Master Sergeant or Chief) 21. Frequent relocation brings many challenges including meeting children s special education and medical needs. True or False (True) 22. Service members and their families experience social and emotional isolation. True or False (True) 23. When deployed, the service member may feel guilty for abandoning the family. True or False (True) 24. Family/deployment issues affect children of the Guard and Reserve due in part to feeling connected to the military community. True or False (False) 25. Some service members and their spouses lack the skills to prevent financial hardships. True or False (True) 26. Service members who are in debt may lose their security clearance preventing them from performing certain duties and deploying overseas. True or False (True) 27. Financial indebtedness does not lead to high risk behavior. True or False (False) 28. What are the proper procedures to follow at the start of reveille or retreat when outdoors? In a car? (Suggested Answers Below) Face the direction of the music (if the flag cannot be seen) Stand at attention until the music ends All vehicles in motion should come to a complete stop at the first note of the music Vehicle occupants should sit quietly until the music ends 29. Name two ceremonies and briefly describe them. 4/7/ P age

64 Retirement: When a service member retires, a ceremony is held in the retiree s honor at which time various awards and decorations are given in recognition of career achievements and contributions to the unit. Promotion: This type of ceremony recognizes a service member for successfully progressing to the next rank. Promotions are the result of attaining a specific score on a series of tests, as well as having a favorable job performance report. 30. The judge advocate Generals Corp in each service branch is responsible for managing the court martial process but is not available to provide other legal services to service members. True or False (False) 31. Each service branch has its own version for military police. True or False (True) 32. An enlisted recruit will attend the following training, except MOS. True or False (False) 33. Retirement is commonly considered the capstone of a service member s career path. True or False (True) 34. Prior to departing the military, families should learn as much as possible about the VA system and processes. True or False (True) 35. Upon leaving the military, service members can obtain transition counseling at their local installation s Transition Assistance Office. True or False (True) 36. Chaplains are often the first resource that service members turn to for help. True or False (True) 37. Military Chaplains are available to service members, but not to their families. True or False (False) 38. Chaplains are helpful in making referrals to the appropriate resources. True or False (True) 39. Providing short-term, solution-focus, non-medical counseling service to service and family members best describes the MFLC program. True or False (True) 40. Providing safety planning to reduce and avoid repeat incidents and promote victim safety best describes the Key Volunteer Network. True or False (False) 41. Installation-based children and youth program provide care for children of service members and civilians from newborns to age 14. True or False (False) 42. Active duty and activated Guard and Reserve service members are automatically enrolled in TRICARE prime. True or False (True) 43. Transitional compensation is available for child abuse victims, but not victims of spousal abuse. True or False (False) 44. A military family member may use Military OneSource 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. True or False (True) 4/7/ P age

65 Military Terms and Acronyms Term Definition Activate Active Duty Orders ADM Active Duty Military ADT Active Duty Training AAFES Air Force Army Exchange Service AFSC Air Force Specialty Code AFB Air Force Base AGR Active Guard Reserve AIT Advanced Individualized Training AR Army Regulation Article 15 Punishment, other than court martial imposed by a Commander ASAP As soon As Possible ASVAB Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (Test) AT Annual Training AWOL Absent Without Leave Barracks Installation Housing For Single Military Members Base Common installation term for Air Force, Navy and Marine Bde Brigade (abbreviation for) BDU Battle Dress Uniform Btry Battery (abbreviation) Bn Battalion (abbreviation) C-130 Air Force Transport Aircraft CDC Child Development Center Cdr Commander (abbreviation for) Chaplain Minister CID Criminal Investigative Command (Army) CG Commanding General Co Company (abbreviation for) CO Commanding Officer COA Course Of Action CONUS Continental United States Convoy Movement of Military Vehicles Commissary Military Installation Grocery Store CP Command Post CRC Case Review Committee DA Department of the Army Det Detachment (abbreviation for) DAF Department of the Air Force DEERS Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System DFAS DoD Agency That Provides Accounting and Financial Services Dependent Family member(s) of service members Deploy Unit moves to assigned location Detail Temporary reassignment 4/7/ P age

66 DoD Department of Defense DOS Date of Separation EANGUS Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States EER Enlisted Evaluation Report EFMP Exceptional Family Member Program ETA Estimated Time of Arrival ETS Expiration Term of Service F-16 Air Force Fighter Jet FAP Family Advocacy Program FM Field Manual Four Seasons Military Installation Garden and Toy Center FRG Family Readiness Group FRO Family Readiness Officer GP Group Grade Used for Pay with an associated RANK (i.e., O-3/Captain) HEMET Heavy Utility Vehicle HMMWV High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle HOOAH! Military exclamation for everything, except no HQ Headquarters (abbreviation for) Hump Field March IAW In Accordance With ID Identification (abbreviation for) IDP Imminent Danger Pay IDT Inactive Duty Training JAG Judge Advocate General K-9 Dog KP Kitchen Patrol LBE Load Bearing Equipment LES Leave and Earning Statement Liberty Off Duty M16 Standard Military Rifle M1A1 Abrams Tank M2AO & M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicles M-DAY Traditional Guardsmen MIA Missing In Action Military Technician Civil Service Full Time Staff Mobilize Prepare to Deploy MOS Military Occupational Specialty MP Military Police MPO Military Protective Order MRE Meal Ready To Eat MUTA Multiple Unit Training Assembly NCIS Naval Criminal Investigative Unit NA Not Applicable NCO Non-Commissioned Officer 4/7/ P age

67 NCOER NGAUS NGB NLT NTC OER OCONUS OCS OSD PCS POC POST SecDef POV POW PT PX/BX RE-UP RMA ROTC R&R SARC SDO Six Pack SOP Sqd Squadron SRP TDY TRICARE UCMJ USN USMC USAFA USAF VA VAP XO Water Buffalo Wing Non-Commissioned Officer Report National Guard Association of the United States National Guard Bureau No Later Than National Training Center Officer Evaluation Report Overseas Officer Candidate School Office of the Secretary of Defense Permanent Change of Station Point Of Contact Army Installation Secretary of Defense Privately Owned Vehicle Prisoner Of War Physical Training Military Post/Base Exchange Reenlist Readiness Management Activity Reserve Officer Training Corps Rest and Recuperation Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Staff Duty Officer Six-Passenger Pick-Up Truck Standard Operating Procedure Squad (abbreviation for) Air Force Equivalent to Company Soldier Readiness Processing Temporary Duty Military Medical Healthcare Plan Uniformed Code of Military Justice United States Navy United States Marine Corp United States Air Force Academy United States Air Force Veterans Administration Victim Advocacy Program Executive Officer 800 Gallon Water Trailer Air Force Equivalent to Brigade 4/7/ P age

68 Military Lingo/Phonetic Alphabet The phonetic is used throughout the military for clarification of letters in verbal communication. The phonetic alphabet is a list for words used by the military to identify letters in a message transmitted by radio or telephone. Spoken words from an approved list are substituted for letters. For example, the word Army would be Alpha Romeo Mike Yankee when spelled in the phonetic alphabet. This practice helps to prevent confusion between similar sounding letters such as m and n or f and s and to clarify communications that may be garbled during transmission. You should be familiar with the phonetic alphabet as you are likely to come into contact with it while communication with military personnel. How would spell you first name using the phonetic alphabet. Letter A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z When you spell a word out, say Alpha Bravo Charlie Delta Echo Foxtrot Golf Hotel India Juliet Kilo Lima Mike November Oscar Papa Quebec Romeo Sierra Tango Uniform Victor Whiskey X-Ray Yankee Zulu 4/7/ P age

69 Military Time Military time differs from standard time in that it is based on 24 hour clock rather on 12-hour clock. As such, military time is stated with reference to hundred hours rather than 0 clock. Until you become familiar with and are able to use military time with ease, standard time can be easily converted to military time simply by 1) using four digits when representing any hour, and 2) adding 12 to any hour between noon and midnight. For example, 6 o clock am (0600 in military time) would be stated 0 six hundred hours or Zero six hundred hours. Additionally, adding 12 to 2 o clock in the afternoon would mean 2pm + 12 = 14, meaning 1400 hours and stated in place of the word hundred. For example, 8:30 am would be stated as O eight thirty hours or O eight thirty while 3:30 pm (by adding 12) would be stated as fifteen thirty. Military Time Civilian (US) Time 0100 Hours 1:00 AM 0200 Hours 2:00 AM 0300 Hours 3:00 AM 0400 Hours 4:00 AM 0500 Hours 5:00 AM 0600 Hours 6:00 AM 0700 Hours 7:00 AM 0800 Hours 8:00 AM 0900 Hours 9:00 AM 1000 Hours 10:00 AM 1100 Hours 11:00 AM 1200 Hours 12:00 Noon 1300 Hours 1:00 PM 1400 Hours 2:00 PM 1500 Hours 3:00 PM 1600 Hours 4:00 PM 1700 Hours 5:00 PM 1800 Hours 6:00 PM 1900 Hours 7:00 PM 2000 Hours 8:00 PM 2100 Hours 9:00 PM 2200 Hours 10:00 PM 2300 Hours 11:00 PM 2400 Hours 12:00 PM Midnight 4/7/ P age

70 Additional List of DoD and Other Resources This section lists additional DoD resources (DoD website issuances) you should be familiar with. For DoD Issuances Directives, Instructions and Publications: Common Military Publication Websites Army Air Force Navy Marines Coast Guard Other Useful Websites National Association for the Education of Young Children: National Association for Family Child Care: National After School Association: Child Welfare: LMS To get completion in the LMS, click on the button below, log into the LMS, and click start module. You will get a completion in the LMS. Click here to receive a completion in the LMS! 4/7/ P age